Vernon Cota's Journey
Donation protected
As many of you know, in June 2017, Vern was diagnosed with Stage Four Renal Cell Carcinoma that was attached to his stomach, lungs, and back. He had multiple metastases throughout his body on his liver, abdomen, chest, pelvis and pubic bone. He was told to go home and get his papers in order as he had 5-8 months to live. A year and a half later, he has surpassed all expectations. All of the metastases are GONE, and the main tumor on his kidney which was 19 cm has shrunk by nearly 50%. Vern has displayed incredible courage and self-motivation to heal and has been an inspiration to all who know him.
Vern has explored an extraordinary range of avenues as a part of his treatment plan. He began a very strong dose of Pazopanib chemotherapy, which took a physical toll and impeded his ability to work in the beginning stages of his cancer. Not willing to be a passive participant in his treatment, he committed to augmenting the chemotherapy with a strict diet of whole, plant-based foods and fasting. Vern has also incorporated cannabis oil treatments, hyperbaric oxygen therapy three times a week, supplements and essential oils, and regular chiropractor appointments. These treatments have been costly, as Vern is self-employed, but they have been worth every penny.
Vern is at the point in his diagnosis where he has delayed surgery to remove the tumor. He is attempting to remove the tumor on his own by using a more holistic approach. He will potentially be taking part in a clinical research study for a ‘fasting mimicking diet’ out of the University of Southern California. This will require the costs of monthly food programs and possibly the costs of a Natural Oncologist. For the time being Vern will be doing intermittent, water & broth fasting, in 4 day increments. Fasting treatments take dedication, it will leave him feeling weak and most likely unable to work, and this in turn causes stress, one of cancers favorite things.
Vern and Tammy are two of the most selfless and genuine people we know, and have been an important part of our community for the last 26 years. They are always thinking of ways to help others, and do not hesitate to give their time and resources. Vern has mentored generations of youth in our community through coaching and volunteering with the Oceanside Minor Hockey Association. He has been an integral part of the local fishing community in his roles as coworker, mentor, and friend. When Tammy owned a local restaurant (the Wheel House Café), she could always be found giving a free meal or donating money out of her own tip jar to help someone pay for a meal. As you all know, Tammy and Vern’s home has always been open to anyone, whether for a visit, some friendly advice, a warm bed, or a cooked meal.
They have inspired and impacted many people, and are quick to help those who need it. Now is the time for our community to give back and offer our support. The funds raised for Vern will buy him time, time to stop worrying, and time to focus on healing.
Tammy is in the process of making a Facebook page to share Vern’s journey. We will post the link as soon as it is ready.
Thank you so much for all of your support along the way, and for keeping us in your hearts as we continue down this path.
Collin, Megan, Dorian, Ashley, Katlin, Kurtis, Aly & Lorne
Vern has explored an extraordinary range of avenues as a part of his treatment plan. He began a very strong dose of Pazopanib chemotherapy, which took a physical toll and impeded his ability to work in the beginning stages of his cancer. Not willing to be a passive participant in his treatment, he committed to augmenting the chemotherapy with a strict diet of whole, plant-based foods and fasting. Vern has also incorporated cannabis oil treatments, hyperbaric oxygen therapy three times a week, supplements and essential oils, and regular chiropractor appointments. These treatments have been costly, as Vern is self-employed, but they have been worth every penny.
Vern is at the point in his diagnosis where he has delayed surgery to remove the tumor. He is attempting to remove the tumor on his own by using a more holistic approach. He will potentially be taking part in a clinical research study for a ‘fasting mimicking diet’ out of the University of Southern California. This will require the costs of monthly food programs and possibly the costs of a Natural Oncologist. For the time being Vern will be doing intermittent, water & broth fasting, in 4 day increments. Fasting treatments take dedication, it will leave him feeling weak and most likely unable to work, and this in turn causes stress, one of cancers favorite things.
Vern and Tammy are two of the most selfless and genuine people we know, and have been an important part of our community for the last 26 years. They are always thinking of ways to help others, and do not hesitate to give their time and resources. Vern has mentored generations of youth in our community through coaching and volunteering with the Oceanside Minor Hockey Association. He has been an integral part of the local fishing community in his roles as coworker, mentor, and friend. When Tammy owned a local restaurant (the Wheel House Café), she could always be found giving a free meal or donating money out of her own tip jar to help someone pay for a meal. As you all know, Tammy and Vern’s home has always been open to anyone, whether for a visit, some friendly advice, a warm bed, or a cooked meal.
They have inspired and impacted many people, and are quick to help those who need it. Now is the time for our community to give back and offer our support. The funds raised for Vern will buy him time, time to stop worrying, and time to focus on healing.
Tammy is in the process of making a Facebook page to share Vern’s journey. We will post the link as soon as it is ready.
Thank you so much for all of your support along the way, and for keeping us in your hearts as we continue down this path.
Collin, Megan, Dorian, Ashley, Katlin, Kurtis, Aly & Lorne
Organizer and beneficiary
Ashley Cota
Organizer
Parksville, BC
Tammy Cota
Beneficiary
