Lifesaving Surgery!

Hello Friends and Family,

Most of you aren't even aware that Ken has been bravely battling Stage 4 cancer for the past 2 years. That was the way he wanted it - he didn't want people feeling sorry for him. 

 

In February of 2020, just before Covid shut everything down, we found out that Ken had Stage 4 Colon cancer that had spread to the liver. In short, because there were several lesions on the liver, we were told that it was inoperable and given a prognosis of 2-5 years with treatment. It has not escaped us that we are at the 2 year mark. Additionally, Covid made it hard for us to go anywhere the past few years and to really enjoy life.

 

Ken has been receiving chemo every couple of weeks and it has been a rollercoaster, trying to balance treatment with quality of life. A few months ago, our oncologist referred us to Sloan Kettering to see if Ken was a good candidate for a liver pump that could control the lesions in his liver and extend his life. It was there that we met a liver surgeon who is confident he can SAVE Ken's life.

 

The liver surgeon, together with a rectal surgeon will be performing multiple surgeries on the same day. This is an 8-9 hour procedure that can only take place at Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York, followed by a 10-day hospital stay. This is scheduled to happen in April.

 

As a retired firefighter, Ken’s always been the one saving others. Neither of us are comfortable asking for financial help. However, in figuring out all the logistics, we realized that, aside from the medical expense, we are going to incur a lot of other expenses. I will need to stay in a NY hotel as they are not allowing overnight guests at the hospital. For 10 days, this is roughly $3,000. Then there are meals, transportation costs and possibly a medical transport needed, pet care/boarding and then help once we get home.

 

Once Ken comes home, it is a 2-3 month recovery period during which he cannot sit upright, drive or lift anything over 5 pounds. We will need some extra help around the house and additional transport to dr appointments. If you are able to help, we thank you so much. If not, we appreciate your prayers and PLEASE go for your normally scheduled checkups!!!

 

Love to all our friends and family,

Adrienne and Ken