Tony Boyes vs. stage IV adenocarcinoma

A little over three weeks ago, I got the news
no mother ever wants to hear-that her youngest has been diagnosed with cancer.  At that time there were many uncertainties but after visiting with a local oncologist and a trip to Mayo the worst was confirmed….stage IV adenocarcinoma of the small intestine with mesenteric mass.  I am still in shock and this is ever so painful to write.  

Tony was a strong and healthy man ready to take on the world when stomach aches and back pain caused him to seek medical attention.  The scan indicated a mass on his small intestine which was simply scheduled to be removed but when the surgeon went in he discovered something unusual and took a biopsy.  He has had another CAT scan, PET scan, endoscopy, multiple blood draws, and numerous other procedures I can’t even begin to remember.  Surgery to remove the mass is not an option according to the experts. 

 He turns 43 today and that is just too young to be hit with a diagnosis like this.  He will be starting chemotherapy soon and the bills are already piling up and causing extra stress that Tony doesn’t need.  He is a self employed single parent and unable to work at this time.  If you can donate to this cause, we will be ever grateful.  

Our family has experienced more than our share of grief and loss in the past few years.  Four years ago his brother unexpectedly took his own life.  Later that year his step-dad was diagnosed with bone cancer and passed away a few weeks later.  Two years ago, his grandma died and in December of that same year his wife took her own life as well.  Last year his dad had a fatal heart attack.  We are now facing yet another tragedy…much too soon and much too young.  

Tony has three children, the youngest of whom is only eight years old.  His name is Brayden and he may never get to grow up with either parent. He has already experienced so much emotional trauma with the loss of his mother.

Tony has a wonderful support group with a caring girlfriend, his sister, in-laws, his good friend from school and myself but, as you can imagine staying hopeful and positive has been a challenge.  We are not giving up….fighting is just second nature to Tony!  He is ready to defy the odds and give it his best fight!
If anyone knows him, they know he has a heart of gold and loves to laugh and joke around. His personality is contagious! He remains in good spirits despite all he is going through.

To make matters a bit more complicated, there’s covid to consider in terms of visitors and well-wishers being unable to be with him.  If you find you are able to help Tony out with medical expenses and other costs, both he and the family would be very grateful. May God bless each of you, and thank you for the prayers the family has been given and the many more surely to come.