Support Eric Larson's Battle Against Cancer

This is for our nephew, Eric Larson, who was recently diagnosed with cancer. Please help monetarily if you can. We also ask for prayers for Eric's healing and his treatment journey.

The start of Eric's journey, in his own words . . .

"I know I've been quiet on the social media side here recently, but I wanted and needed time to let family know of this new season of my life and also what the path of this journey looks like that has been laid down in front of me. I also needed time to procees this walk with God that I am about to embark on.

Since I have done that, I thought I would share with you my friends what my new journey that has been laid before me is going to look like.

Ready?

Here goes nothing.

See this guy right here in the picture? Doing what he loves. Singing and playing guitar. It's been forever since I've seen this guy. I miss him. Little does he know he's about to get rocked with a diagnosis that he never saw coming. He starts having discomfort and change in his GI behavior. After months of passing it off thinking is was attributed to terrible diet and health and having family and friends saying that you should go see someone, he decided to go have a colonoscopy. When he comes to after anesthesia thinking all is well and taken care of, the doctor comes in and draws the curtain. "We found something" he says and orders tests and appointments. So what he says next is shocking.

You have cancer.

Colon/Rectal Cancer.

Instant fear and tears swell up in my eyes. I start instantly thinking about my son. I was devastated. Why me? No family history. How long do I have left to live? So many feelings and thoughts ran through my head.

When I was diagnosed with rectal cancer, my world flipped upside down. I never thought I’d be one of the millions of people facing this kind of challenge. Hearing the diagnosis was like a punch to the gut—fear, anger, and uncertainty rushed in all at once. But after the initial shock wore off, I realized I had two choices: let the fear take over or take control of what I could. I chose the latter.

I’m learning that facing cancer is a lot like preparing for a big game. You need a plan, a team, and a mindset that’s focused on winning. So, with the support of my medical team and loved ones, I’ve created my game plan to get through chemo and surgery—and come out stronger on the other side.

Step 1: Learning the Opponent

The first step in my plan was understanding the enemy—what exactly was going on in my body. My doctor explained that rectal cancer is treatable, but the process is intense: chemo to shrink the tumor, then surgery to remove it. I also will have a port placed into my chest so I can have the medicine administered to me in the comfort of my home for 46 hours, then go back to cancer center to unplug the machine so my body can rest until the next administer of meds. I asked questions, researched credible sources, finding out what side effects and safe practices I need to do so I can stay comfortable during the chemo process, and made sure I understood every step of the process. Knowledge gave me a sense of control and helped me feel like an active participant in my care.

The blessings of finding out after the MRI, the CT scan, bloodwork, etc is that the tumor is localized. It is not spreading to other organs, the bloodwork shows normal levels, no carcenegetic properties, and the biopsy shows no signs of lymphatic properties. That's my friends is God. No doubt. BUT, I'm ready to get this process started and get that tumor out.

Step 2: Building the Team

No one fights cancer alone. I leaned on my team: my oncologist, surgeon, nurse navigator, family, and friends. Each person plays a role. My medical team provides expertise and guidance, while my loved ones provide emotional support. I also found strength in talking to others who’ve been through similar experiences. Support groups and online forums have been a source of encouragement and practical advice.

Step 3: Strengthening the Body

Preparing for surgery is like getting ready for a marathon—you need your body to be as strong as possible. Will Chemo take a toll on me? Everyone is different. My plan is 3 months chemo with an every 2 week regime to shrink the tumor, then surgery to remove, and if need be 3 more months of chemo to make sure all is well and cancer is gone. I’ve been working on rebuilding my strength. I’ve been focusing on eating a nutrient-rich diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Staying hydrated is also a priority. If you could see my fridge, freezer, and cupboards..everything is so health driven now. But since this diagnosis, I crave the health foods now. It's so nice to stop putting trash into my body and have a healthy, goal oriented, take care of your body for a second chance at life after Cancer mindset and diet now. It's so refreshing.

When I have the time and energy, I do light exercises, like walking or stretching, to keep my body moving. I’ve even started practicing breathing exercises to help with stress and post-surgery recovery. It’s about finding small, manageable ways to keep my body ready for what’s ahead.

Step 4: Strengthening the Mind

Cancer is as much a mental battle as it is a physical one. To prepare for chemo and surgery, I’ve been working on my mindset. Journaling has helped me process my emotions, and mindfulness practices like meditation have helped me manage anxiety. I’ve also started visualizing a successful surgery and recovery—seeing myself healthy and active again.

One thing that’s helped me tremendously is focusing on what I can control. Cancer takes away a lot of choices, but I can control how I prepare and how I approach each day.

Step 5: Planning for Recovery

Preparing for surgery doesn’t stop at the operating room. I’ve been thinking about what I’ll need during recovery. I’ve stocked up on comfortable clothes, easy-to-make meals, and things to keep me entertained while I heal. I’ve also talked with my surgeon about what to expect post-surgery, including potential side effects and lifestyle changes. Knowing what’s ahead helps me feel more prepared and less overwhelmed.

Step 6: Leaning Into Support

One of the most important parts of my plan is letting people help me. This hasn’t always been easy—I’m used to being independent—but I’ve realized that accepting support is not a sign of weakness. Whether it’s a friend offering to drive me to appointments or a family member checking in on me, every bit of help makes a difference. The people that are in my life and have gone above and beyond getting me ready for this time in my life, and have provided for me when I needed it...I love you all so much.❤️

I’ve also been honest about what I need emotionally. Talking openly about my fears, frustrations, and hopes has brought me closer to the people around me and reminded me that I’m not alone in this fight.

Step 7: Staying Focused on the Goal

The ultimate goal is clear: get through surgery, recover, and beat this cancer. Keeping that goal in mind gives me the motivation to stick to the plan, even on the tough days. I know there will be challenges, but I also know I’m stronger than I’ve ever given myself credit for.

Cancer is a battle I didn’t choose, but I’ve made the choice to fight. With my game plan in place, I’m ready to take the next step and face surgery head-on. It won’t be easy, but I’m determined to come out on the other side stronger, healthier, and ready to embrace life again not only for me, but for my son as well.

For anyone else walking a similar path: You’re not alone. Build your plan, lean on your team, and take it one day at a time. We’ve got this. Never give up..NEVER.

If you stayed long enough to read this in its entirety, thank you for time and seeing life through my eyes right now.

Just know..I Love you all so much.❤️

Any questions, don't hesitate to ask. Text or message me. I'll do my best to answer.

I'll be okay..I have to be for me and my family, friends, and most importantly, my whole world..my son.

I'll see you on the other side..the recovery side.❤️‍

Change is coming."