Trying to Survive Cancer

11-21-2023

Chemo makes the veins weak. So a port was surgically implanted today.

Update: 12-11-2023

CT scan finally shows some promise.

The cancer has decreased 20%. For the moment it doesn't sound like much. But I will take it. I haven't noticed any improvement in the way I feel. I have hair again.

Update: 10-25-2023

I have been admitted to UT hospital and released. Pneumonia and fighting diabetes. There is a tumor pressing on the carotid vein and inner station tube. A tube was placed in my ear to drain and relieve pressure. Fighting insurance as always.

February 23rd 2023, I found a pea size bump just behind the right side of my jaw. My Dr. said it could be an abscessed tooth. I had the tooth removed, but the dentist said after the X-rays, that it was something else.

1 Month later, it was confirmed I have cancer. Started going to Vanderbilt for treatment. The first 2 treatments were successful. Then it came back. Switched medication and that helped a little. With Treatment, I can not walk or function at my job. Why work when I could be on disability? Well, there are a few answers to that. First; I was raised in a generation where if you can work, then you work. Second; The Bills! Insurance doesn't pay enough to cover them. Third; We have lost our home, asked to leave a friend's house, and now live in a camper where at any time be asked to leave.

The way the insurance claim through my work is written. You can return to work with no compensation for your week off with treatment, or you can stay at home and live off of disability. There is no back and forth. So for the week, I am home. I don't get paid.

Today, I am getting a CT Scan to see how the Cancer is and if I am getting better. I can feel pressure where it is. I don't want to say it is coming back. I don't want to ramble on about too much and thank you for reading up to this point. Thank you and God Bless you.