Tom Carrigan's Cancer Battle

Have you ever said, “Let me know if there is anything I can do” or “Tell me if you need anything.”  I am asking for Tom Carrigan and there is something we can do and there is something he needs now.

For those of us who are privileged to know Tom  we know him as a loving husband to Pamela (Hall) Carrigan, father to Jeremy and Jonathan Carrigan and Step-Father to Benjamin and Denise DeChaine. He is also known to us all as a loving, kind, generous man who stands proud always with a helping hand to lend to others. Never asking or expecting anything in return. His generosity has included time and financial support to many charitable organizations.

It is now time for all of us who have been touched by his love, friendship and generosity to help Tom and his loved ones.

After three years of invasive test, treatment, and surgery battling a rare gastrointestinal carcinoma (small intestine cancer) we were all hopeful he would remain cancer free. Life returned to normal. Tom returned to work, playing golf, and spending time with family and friends.

Then this past January we learned the adenocarcinoma had metastasized requiring yet more procedures and Chemo.

Gastrointestinal carcinoma is such a rare form of cancer even one of the world renowned cancer institutes in Tampa, FL could add nothing positive to the quest for a cure.

The next stage of the battle, as suggested by his doctors is to seek the advice of MD Anderson (Houston), Sloan Kettering (NY) or others outside Florida. These out of the area providers are considered Tier 2 by insurance companies, which significantly increase the cost of a cure to the family. In addition, cost of flights, housing, or meals during this journey of hope are also not covered.

Tom and Pam need all of us to help taking Tom’s fight on the road, seeing specialists capable of helping turn the tide. While it won’t be easy, Tom’s conviction is strong and we all believe a cure will be found.

So let’s go! Open your hearts and help! Spread the word! You know how good it feels to help!
I know we all can’t wait to celebrate his cure.

Tom and his family appreciate the outpouring prayers and loving thoughts from family and friends, and all who have been touched by them as they continue to fight.

On behalf of Tom, Pam and the whole family, thank you for your time and generosity.