Support Terry's Journey Through Cancer Treatment

As we sit in Mayo for the 3rd time this week, we decided this was the best way to share Terry's story. We did not plan to share anything on social media, but realize the power of positive thoughts and prayers and want to receive all of that from family and friends on this journey.

About a month ago, Terry was diagnosed with HPV+ squamous cell carcinoma at the base of his tongue and lymph nodes in his neck. This is a very common cancer in our age group and is very treatable, with a very positive prognosis.

Terry will begin 7 weeks of treatment on August 11. He will have Chemo one time a week and Radiation Monday-Friday. Treatment will be in Rochester because he qualified for a study that uses proton radiation which will include regular blood and saliva tests to monitor his cancer markers. If they are zero at 4 weeks, treatment can end at 5 1/2 weeks instead of 7 weeks. This greatly reduces the side effects that usually peak at weeks 6 and 7.

As of now our plan is to drive to Rochester daily for his treatments. Terry would like to continue to work as long as he is able. There are no restrictions related to his treatment and the doctors say he should feel good for the first weeks. You all know Terry is pretty stubborn and a tough SOB so I do not think he is going to let this slow him down.

We have connected a Go Fund Me with this Caring Bridge Page as a way to seek support for our daily trips, potential hotel stays, and missed work.