Andrew's Blog

Family

2007-01-21T11:56:00.000-06:00

A few months ago while looking through Andrew's email account I came across an e-mail. I had never seen it as it was sent to his parents and his siblings. I thought it was very beautiful, so I thought I would share.

It was written November 9, 2005.

I just want all of you to know that I love you with all of my heart. I feel like there is nothing stronger than the bond of a family. I
feel the same way about my little family (Amy, Liam, Lanie, Evan). I always want you to know how close I hold my relationships with each of you to my heart. You have all shaped the person that I have become, and I know that I have had the same effect on you.

I know that we are dispersed right now, and that my medical situation is a heavy emotional burden for all. I hope that you find peace with it and know that I have already found that peace. If and when I pass on, I will do so as a blessed and fearless man. I could not ask for a better family to raise me. I am very proud of each of you. I feel like I have accomplished some great things in my 30 years and you have been a part of it along the way.

I love you & livestrong,

Andrew (AJ) Molenda

2006-08-01T22:48:00.000-05:00

Thank you

2006-03-14T21:20:00.000-06:00

Thanks to all of our friends, family, supporters, and prayer warriors. We appreciate the outpouring of support from everyone. The posts on the blog have meant so much to us all. The flood of cards with support and prayers is so comforting. I am amazed by the amount of support for the children's college fund. That was such a wonderful idea Andrew came up with. It will now have time to earn interest, and will be a wonderful gift to them later in life. We are so lucky to have such a wonderful network of people who will be there to help when we need it. There aren't really words to express the comfort it gives me.

I would like to publicly thank my Mother, Debi, and my Mother-in-law, Margaret. Though I have had support from many others throughout the last few years during Andrew's battle, they have given me a gift that I will never be able to repay. They allowed me to be the best caregiver that I could. They allowed me to call and arrange childcare with them at a last minute notice, so I could run and be with Andrew wherever in the country he might need me. I feel blessed to know that I gave Andrew all that I had, and you both helped me do that. Thank you.

I would also like to thank my Dad, Wayne. Dad you've been so amazing. I've called on you nearly weekly, sometimes daily, to help me around the house. You've helped me remodel, and you've done everything I've asked of you, and sometimes things I didn't ask, but that you knew needed to be done. Thank you.

Frank I'd like to thank you for being there to support Margaret, me, and Andrew anytime we needed you. And, for being supportive, of Margaret being here with us more than she could be with you in Ohio. Thank you.

Dan, Miranda, Jenny, Ellen, Fr. Steve, thanks so much for being there days on end with us at the hospital. Thanks for praying, and crying, laughing, and making those last days and hours with Andrew a time I will never forget.

Thank you Andrew for giving us everything you had those last days, everything that we all remember as just being Andrew, from the Southpark and cracking jokes to being the smart aleck you always were, and for the amazingly touching words to us all.

I will continue to update my blog, to let everyone know how we are doing. I am planning to continue the blogging effort in a way to carry on Andrew's mission, to be vocal about his story because it might impact someone's life. I will continue to post information vital to all of us about cancer and how we can make a difference. I have applied to the LAF to attend Washington DC in May for Livestrong Day, and hope to be accepted next week. Andrew asked me to promise that I would be there to tell his story. I will always tell his story. I will also tell mine.

Livestrong always,

Amy Molenda

www.5molendas.blogspot.com

Arrangements Made

2006-03-01T17:34:00.000-06:00

We've made some arrangements for Andrew's funeral, wake, and for donations instead of flowers.

Wake: 8 p.m. Friday, March 3, at the Church of the Resurrection (4804 S. Fulton), Tulsa, OK. Come and have a Guinness in memory of Andrew!

Funeral Mass: 10 a.m. Saturday, March 4, at the Church of the Resurrection (4804 S. Fulton), Tulsa.

Burial: 10 a.m. Monday, March 6, at Maryhill Cemetery, Niles, IL.

Instead of flowers, please contribute to the Molenda children's college fund by sending a check made out to Amy Molenda (or one of the children) to:

Arvest Bank
4548 E. 51st St.
Tulsa, OK 74135

Thank you for your continuing support. We truly appreciate it.

Good night, sweet Andrew

2006-02-28T22:06:00.000-06:00

Andrew's struggle with cancer ended this afternoon. We all got a chance to say goodbye to him, and although it was a terrible, heartbreaking day, we know he's in a better place and that we will see him again.

We're all sad. But we remember the joy Andrew brought us all, and his fierce, strong, beautiful approach to life. He was a fighter until the end. He made his life and his death meaningful.

All of your thoughts and prayers, and your overwhelming kindness, are very much appreciated. We have all been reading the comments on the blog, and crying and smiling as we are reminded of how many people loved Andrew and were inspired by him.

Andrew: we all love you, and we will miss you awfully until we are together again. Until then, we will keep you in our hearts and know that you are watching over us.

Andrew's Final Ride

2006-02-26T00:14:00.000-06:00

We are sitting beside Andrew's bed in the hospital. It has been a heartbreaking time, both terrible in that we know we are losing Andrew, and wonderful in that his family has been here in force to show him their love and support.

He has been bleeding since Thursday, and Friday he opted for comfort care only -- no more transfusions. He decided he had suffered enough, and we support his decision even though letting him go will be the hardest thing we've ever had to do.

Andrew is a true hero, and an inspiration to us all. It would be impossible to describe the way this hurts. But Andrew is also still making us laugh with his wisecracks, watching South Park, and just generally being Andrew. It probably won't be very long now, but we are treasuring every moment.

We're limiting visitors to family only, but friends, please know that Andrew loves you and that he knows he has your support.

We will keep this blog updated with further information as it happens.

Indiana Bound?

2006-02-21T21:28:00.000-06:00

Who knows. I spoke with my Tulsa doctors today regarding the fistula/abscess/small bowel leak issue. They have asked me to involve my Indiana surgeons who performed the pelvic resection last June. Dr. Jacobson, the thoracic surgeon who assisted on my last two surgeries at Indiana is going to review my films from the fistulagram, Barium Enema and upcoming CT scan (This Thursday). Depending on his judgment Amy and I may be scrambling to make it up to Indianapolis so they can perform a surgical repair of my bowel. Personally, I am hopeful that this can be done successfully and I can get relief from the bowel issues along with the abscess issues. Dealing with these issues since last July has been quite miserable.

So far this is all in speculation until the doctors are able to review the films and make their recommendations. When I know something more solid, I'll be the first to post it out here for everyone to see.

Keep me in your thoughts and prayers. Even if I have surgery, I have promised myself that I will be at the Livestrong Ride in Austin this October. And if I am able to meet my $15K goal, I'll be dancing a jig at this year's Ride for the Roses. I'm not letting cancer or these ailments hold me back for one moment!

Livestrong (is there any other way?)

Andrew

Some new medical setbacks

2006-02-18T19:53:00.000-06:00

Well the hits just keep on coming

Earlier this week I noticed that the output from my abscess changed from the usual lovely infected yellow to fecal brown color. Woo hoo!

I had a barium enema and a fistulagram performed on Thursday. The results of which showed that my small-bowel has formed a fistula to my long existing abscess.

The plan is to limit my food intake to a liquid diet in the hope that it will heal on its own. If it doesn't heal, they will admit me to the hospital again and put my on IV nutrition or TPN to shut down my bowels and encourage them to to heal. The final option would be surgery (This is an option no one wants to pursue with my unique anatomy).

As you can imagine this has been a pretty miserable experience for me, but I was relieved to hear that it could heal without a hospital stay or surgery. I am definitely not out of the woods yet and appreciate all of your love, support, and prayers.

Livestrong,

Andrew

One More Photo from the OSU Game

2006-02-07T19:42:00.000-06:00

In preparation for the Bedlam Game* coming up tomorrow night, I thought I would post the most recent photo I have been sent from the Coaches vs Cancer event back on 1/21. As I said before this was an amazing honor and I could not be more thankful to the organizers of the event and the sponsor, Sallie Mae Loans.

*For those who live outside of Oklahoma, Bedlam is the name for the rivalry games between Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma.

Livestrong,

Andrew

Blog Page Update

2006-02-07T13:49:00.000-06:00

I added a sidebar banner for the Livestrong Ride in Austin, TX. I also put a link to my donation page directly below it. I'll make sure that this link is up and working throughout my fundraising. You can click it if you are interested in making a donation or if you want to see how close I am to reaching my goal of $15,000. So far I have been overwhelmed by the generosity of my friends and family, If I could keep up that kind of pace I would reach my goal in no time!

Livestrong,

Andrew

Livestrong Ride 2006

2006-02-06T14:46:00.000-06:00

It's that time of year again! I am kicking off my 2006 fundraising for the Lance Armstrong Foundation. This year the ride is being called the "Livestrong Ride" and it will be done regionally. My ride is still in Austin TX. Those who raise enough money will be invited to the Ride For the Roses in Austin later in the year.

Every year I am continually impressed with the generosity of my friends and family. If you are interested in supporting my efforts for 2006 just click this link.

If the link above does not work, copy and paste the following URL into you browser:
http://www.livestrongride.org/faf/r.asp?t=4&i=153534&u=153534-87005546&e=497886250

I am also interested in any ideas for ways to raise funds or if you may know of any corporations that might be willing to donate to my account.

Livestrong,

Andrew

Back in the hospital again....

2006-02-02T16:38:00.000-06:00

Fortunately, it will only be for a blood transfusion. I'm sure I just freaked some people out with that title. My Anemia is a fact of life after the last surgery when they removed so much tissue and bone from my pelvis. Apparently I lost some valuable bone marrow in the process. That in combination with the Neutron Therapy I received in the same area made things even worse. So I'll be going back on weekly Aranesp shots (at about 2K a pop) along the Iron I take three times a day. With all of that I am usually able to keep my hemoglobin around the 9+ range if I am lucky. My Hemoglobin was 7.0 today, a normal level is 14.0.

Livestrong,

Andrew

Chromosomal Translocations in Sarcomas: New Perspectives

2006-02-01T11:42:00.000-06:00

This is a very interesting article about my type of cancer (Sarcoma) and what has been found regarding the unique Chromosomal features of the tumors. This information will allow them to pull a tumor marker to determine tumor type and tumor activity. This would be huge for someone in my condition.

Livestrong,

Andrew

Some have reported problems with the earlier link. I updated the link in title, but here is the correct link as well: Translocation Article

Coaches vs. Cancer Honorary Survivor!

2006-01-21T19:38:00.000-06:00

Wow! What an amazing honor! I cannot really describe how wonderful it felt to be out on center court of Gallagher-IBA Arena (one of the great college basketball stadiums) while my accomplishments were read aloud and the crowd roared. Especially since OSU is my alma mater and this was my first basketball game in Stillwater. The people with OSU Athletics and Coaches vs Cancer really took care of me well and coordinated a great event. Today was the first day they started selling Coach Sutton Bobblehead dolls, so I had to get one. All the money benefits the Coaches vs. Cancer charity.

You can get one at www.orangeconnection.com if you are interested.

Take Care, Livestrong, and Go Pokes!

Andrew

Great American Health Check

2006-01-20T08:14:00.000-06:00

The American Cancer Society is providing an online heath checklist. If you click on the title of this post it will link you to the website. Otherwise visit www.cancer.org for more information.

Livestrong,

Andrew

Many Thanks

2006-01-18T15:03:00.000-06:00

I just need to send out some thank yous:

--To my friends at the CCC (Cyclists Combating Cancer) who continue to provide support and encouragement.

--To the wonderful people at Sallie Mae who chose me to be the honorary coach/survivor for this weekend's OSU/Colorado basketball game.

--To the generous people who are sharing their season tickets with us so my family can attend the game for this special honor.

--To everyone else who reads my blog, posts comments, and shares in my story.

Livestrong,

Andrew Molenda

Coaches vs. Cancer

2006-01-16T11:21:00.000-06:00

I've going to be busy next weekend. I'll be the Coaches vs. Cancer honorary cancer survivor for this Saturday's Oklahoma State vs Colorado basketball game! They'll read a brief bio about what I've done as a survivor and let me bring the game ball out to the referee. Oklahoma State is my alma mater so I am really excited about this opportunity. I know the game is televised in Oklahoma and should be in Colorado as well. Tipoff is at 3:00pm central if any of you want to catch the game, you may see me!

So far So Good

2006-01-15T15:58:00.000-06:00

After the first 24 hours at home everything is still going well. It sure was nice to sleep in my own bed again and not have the regular interruptions of my sleep (Checking my vitals, etc). My three kids spent time with Amy's Mom in OKC this weekend, coming home today. Seeing the kids react to my being home was emotional. They were all very sweet and wanted hugs and kisses. I missed them greatly and it is wonderful to have them home.

It really is scary how weakened my condition became due to the bowel obstruction. I continue to worry that it will become a problem again but things consistently work out. I just need to remember not to push myself too much and to rebuild what I have lost of the past week. Last check my weight was 126lbs, I'd like to get up to the 150s in time.

1/14 is my day of freedom!

2006-01-13T19:28:00.000-06:00

I got word today that I'll be going home tomorrow! They're stopping
the TPN nutrition today and I'm continuing to eat a normal diet.
Looks like it'll be a weekend watching NFL football and enjoying the
new recliners Amy bought this week!

The doctor also signed the order today for a home health PT to help
get my body in shape to ride my bike again. I am very excited about
kicking this off. The thought of being able to ride again almost brought a tear to my eye.

Livestrong,

Andrew

Food!!!

2006-01-12T16:07:00.000-06:00

Well, since Andrew was handling the full liquids good, and he actually got some through the digestive tract several times, rather than going backwards to water, they have decided to move on forward just slowly. So, he got to start a soft diet today. So far so good. He hasn't been feeling full and things seem to go down fine. The doctors are planning to keep him a bit longer in the hospital, but don't anticipate any problems. :)

I mentioned that I thought he was looking a bit yellow this morning, so they ordered a liver panel. Everything looked fine, but his bilirubin was a bit low (it would be high with jaundice). The TPN can cause some issues like this because TPN is processed by the liver. So, it's working harder. I'm sure it will resolve once they get him off the TPN, and it looks like that won't be a problem since eating is going well.

LiveStrong,

Amy

Latest Idea

2006-01-11T23:37:00.000-06:00

The surgeon thinks there is still a partial blockage, which could cause some problems, and ultimately feel Andrew will need surgery. However, they want to try to postpone it as long as possible and try to get him healthier. The current idea is to send him home on TPN and allow water only. After a few months he'd be further out from chemo, and possibly in better shape nutritionally. He weighs about 126, down from 196 in June. They think he could gain on TPN. At least he could improve is prealbumin number which was at 3 earlier in the week, should be closer to 20. If they could get him in better shape for surgery, they could go in to operate on the obstruction.

Right now this is just an idea they are tossing around, we'll have to see how things go over the next few days. Right now Andrew is feeling really full even with a small amount of juice. The doctors feel this could be a result of the partial obstruction.

I guess time will tell. He did get the NG tube out today, and after several Kleenex, he was feeling much better. Much easier coming out than going in. :) Though there is a risk that it may have to go back in he felt it was worth it, just to get some relief from the nostril tube.

LiveStrong,

Amy

What a week!

2006-01-10T11:22:00.000-06:00

Hello again, it's good to be back. I had all kinds of funny stuff to blog when they were giving me regular morphine. I am just very humbled by this experience and I continue to pray for it to be be resolved.

LIVESTRONG = Andrew

X-rays

2006-01-10T09:56:00.000-06:00

The surgeon said today they'll do another contrast dye test to see how Andrew is digesting. If all looks good, they'll take out the NG tube today or tomorrow, and he'll start with a little water. If no nausea they'll keep stepping it up.

LiveStrong,

Amy

Can I have water, please?

2006-01-09T21:31:00.000-06:00

Andrew is doing great! He seems in MUCH better spirits, which I guess is to be expected. :) We all are! It's been such a wonderful day, truly a gift. Andrew is just very thirsty, and can't wait for that first glass of water. He told the nurse that will be a special day. :) He keeps asking, but of course, the doctors are hesitant. The bile is continuing through his system with no problems, so it would seem that the blockage has past. Yeah!

What a roller-coaster! Yesterday the two options were horrible or worse, and today was just such a relief. We were all very terrified, and today very grateful. Thanks to everyone for all of the prayers and support, the calls and e-mails. It means so much to have such a network of people available to help, and friends who truly care.

LiveStrong,

Amy

Power of Prayer and Positive Thinking :)

2006-01-09T14:59:00.000-06:00

We talked to the doctor again. He said the surgeons feel that a CT would show them what they already know, that the bulging pressure is gone, because the blockage allowed the bile through. So, they wait to see if Andrew keeps moving bile through. If so, in a couple of days they'll take the NG tube out and try some water. If Andrew doesn't get nauseous or vomit, they'll try a bit of food, and so on. Right now, they just aren't sure if the blockage was forced over to allow the building pressure through and eventually the pressure will build again, or if there was a plug that has actually passed.

Whoo!!!Hoo!!! I'll take it for now, and hopefully the news just gets better.

Amy

Update

2006-01-09T11:31:00.000-06:00

Just about 10-15 minutes prior to them coming to get Andrew for surgery. He had a bowel "explosion." (Sorry, but that is the best way to describe what happened). :) Anyway, that could be a VERY good sign. The contents seemed to be bile, and they tested it for blood, and there was blood present. It didn't seem that this was a blockage that would pass on its own, so we're not positive exactly what happened. The internal medicine doc says that maybe the pressure building for so long could've forced its way through. Anyway, the doc called the surgeons and they've held up the surgery. I haven't heard from the surgeon, but I'm assuming they'll want a new CT scan to see
what the blockage looks like at this point.

Keep the prayers coming!

Amy

Surgery Today

2006-01-09T07:11:00.000-06:00

Andrew is going in for surgery today. They have warned us that this will be a very difficult surgery, and they gave Andrew the option to go on hospice. Andrew is determined to eat again. They told him no promises, and he said that if he does nothing he definitely won't eat again. So, they will go in and see what they find, and if there is anything they can do to make him more comfortable they will. It could mean a diversion rather than a resection of the tumor/tissue. Their concern is not the removal of cancer (if it turns out to be tumor), but making him feel better.

Andrew says, "Stay Positive, LiveStrong"

What Condition His Condition Is In

2006-01-08T20:38:00.000-06:00

Andrew has recently developed a significant bowel obstruction. It seems to the doctors that this is a mechanical (tumor, scar tissue, etc.)blockage, and will require a very difficult surgery to resolve it. They have been withholding food and draining the stomach via NG tube to let the stomach/bowels rest. Once they've confirmed that it is a mechanical obstruction, we will begin plans for surgery.

We're in hopes that we can find a local surgeon willing to and confident about performing the surgery. Dr. Jacobson (IU)referred us to a colleague (very highly recommended trauma surgeon) at university of Oklahoma hospital who has given us recommendations for surgeons at St. John's, but also she would be willing to have him transported to her group at University of Oklahoma hospital in Oklahoma City if necessary.

Andrew's oncologist has great concerns about Andrew's ability to handle a surgical procedure. He said if it were his personal choice, he would not do the surgery. He says Andrew could opt to go home with the NG tube and IV feeds and that could sustain him for a few weeks to a month. Andrew says he doesn't want to starve to death, and that he will go ahead with surgery and take his chances. Based on nutrition tests his prealbumin is very low, which does mean that he will be a poor prognosis patient for surgery. They've since changed his TPN to a higher fat/protein content so he's getting over 2000 calories, which is a good amount considering how inactive he is. Even with a successful surgery, and making it through recovery okay, this will be a big set-back, as Andrew will not be able to continue chemotherapy for some time. If this is tumor in the bowel, it could likely come back, and cause new problems shortly. However, the surgery would possibly bring some relief and the ability to eat again.

Tomorrow morning we should have a plan of action. We were warned by the internal medicine doctor that the plan could mean surgery as early as tomorrow. Andrew received a contrast dye test, and they've been taking x-rays every hour to check the progress. Last check the barium was moving through, but hadn't reached the area of concern. So, keep your fingers crossed.

Hopefully I wasn't rambling to terribly, and some of this makes sense. :) I'll keep everyone posted.

Send lots of prayers and good thoughts our way!

LiveStrong,

Amy Molenda

I'm quoted in a recent article of The Cure magazine

2005-12-31T10:05:00.000-06:00

You can read the full article using this link:
http://www.curetoday.com/currentissue/departments/moving/index.html

They were interested in what drives me to be a grassroots activist despite having advanced cancer. I think the writer did a good job on the article. I did that interview while I was receiving pints of blood at St. John's a couple of months ago.

More photos from the Ride for the Roses!

2005-12-21T17:24:00.000-06:00

I know it was a while ago, but we just got these ones and I wanted to share them with everyone since they cover events that were not included earlier.

The photos of me and Liam with Lance are from the autograph session I was fortunate enough to attend. The photo of me and Amy is from the Peloton Dinner, I think she looks beautiful. The pic of Dan and Liam is on Barney the purple dinosaur, the tandem bike we were going to ride together. I couldn't ride but fortunately Liam was with us so he could fill in.

Livestrong,

Andrew

Lance Armstrong Movie Project

2005-12-17T12:37:00.000-06:00

They are going to make a movie about Lance, based on his book "It's not about the bike". They are asking for survivors to submit their personal stories of how Lance has motivated them in their cancer fight. I went ahead and submitted my story, so we'll see I may make the movie.

http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/lancearmstrongproject/index.html

Dr. Visit and Test Results

2005-12-13T10:54:00.000-06:00

Amy and I visited the Oncologist this morning for the follow up on recent tests to see how effective the Gemzar/Taxotere chemotherapy has been on the 20+ tumors in my lungs. I'm sure everyone is anxious to hear the results so here we go:

CBC / Blood tests: Both my Red and White blood cells are looking good. I will continue to get Aranesp shots every week to continue to build up my red blood cell counts. This is great news for me, and I should be able to avoid another transfusion for awhile!

CT Scan: This was the big one to determine my overall prognosis and the benefits of this treatment. I had a scan of my pelvis, abdomen, and lungs. My lungs have active tumors, my pelvis has had two recurrences since my primary tumor in my pelvis, and my abdomen has always been cancer free.
Today's results: Pelvis = Clear, no signs of cancer, Abdomen = Clear, no signs of cancer, Lungs = My previous scans showed two large tumors in my right lung both over 2cm. Today's scan showed those same tumors however they measured about 1.6 x 1.9 cm!

This is absolutely wonderful news! This treatment appears to be working, nothing new has developed, the tumor growth appears to be stopped and they may even be shrinking! I am going to take some time off to enjoy the holidays and hopefully gain some strength for another couple of rounds of chemo beginning this January.

Oh well, the Bears lost

2005-12-12T10:33:00.000-06:00

They lost yesterday to the Steelers, and looked pretty crappy in the game too. Hopefully they'll pick it up next week and pull out a win.

Today I go in for my CT scan, I have to leave in about 20 min for the hospital. Again I'm hoping for good news that the tumors are still in check and that all this chemo has been worthwhile. Either way I want to take a break to try and get past these damn abscesses.

Good news on my benefits via work. I was approved for Long-term disability so I won't have an interruption in pay just a reduction in pay to 66 1/3% of my salary. I am also applying through Social Security for disability benefits.

Livestrong & Happy Holidays,

Andrew

Bear Down Chicago Bears

2005-12-05T19:03:00.000-06:00

Da Bears are now 9-3 riding an 8 game winning streak! This past Sunday their defense (#1 defense in the NFL) crushed the Green Bay Packers. As a die-hard Bears fan my entire life this season is like a gift from above. The best part is that they are doing it the old Chicago football way, a strong running game, a dominating defense, and almost no passing game.

Here are some cool photos from the last game:

Good News

2005-12-03T11:56:00.000-06:00

My Long Term Disability has been approved! This is a relief since my short term disability benefits will run out shortly. Now I get to go through the process of applying for Social Security Disability benefits. I don't anticipate any problems getting benefits, my medical records speak for themselves, but you never know.

Hope everyone is having a good weekend,

Andrew

Sorry it's been a while

2005-12-02T13:04:00.000-06:00

We all made it back home last weekend and it's been a hectic week or so. Most of the kids picked up some kind of a virus that includes a cough and a nose that runs constantly. Amy got sick too, but she has been feeling better the last few days. I went in for my final dose of chemo (for this cycle). Now I have a CT scan scheduled for my chest to see how effective the chemotherapy has been on the lung tumors. Depending on the results I will either be continuing the current treatment therapy or move on to a new regimen. If I have to look for a different treatment therapy it will probably be the clinical trial ET-743. At the same time the one thing I want more than anything else is to feel better and have the energy to be as active I want to be.

This really is an awful thing to be faced with, in the past there was always hope and a treatment therapy that provided an opportunity for a cure. Unfortunately I know that no matter what treatment choices I make it will not change the fact that I am incurable with the current drugs available for sarcoma. We are really just looking for a treatment therapy that will work and hopefully have a minimal amount of side effects. This current one is pretty mild but it does have it's share of side effects. I think I'll feel better about taking the chemo if I know that it is helping to shrink the tumors.

Hope everyone has a good weekend,

Livestrong - Andrew

Happy Thanksgiving!

2005-11-24T19:42:00.000-06:00

We're visiting my parents for the holiday. This is my first chance to see their new home in Cincinnati. My brother and his fiance are visiting along with their three children. Along with our friends that are visiting today, that means we have 8 children under the age of 8! 6 of them are boys under the age of 6! I never imagined that they could make so much noise. Fortunately they are all good kids and they are fun to have around.

My Mom and Amy made a great traditional Thanksgiving meal for the crew. Right now we're watching movies with the older kids waiting for their collective bedtimes.

I am doing well, but I am starting to feel the effects of such a long trip and how active we have been. Lately I've been taking a three hour nap every morning. I am concerned that I may be getting anemic again, I cannot seem to shake this problem. Ever since my surgery I have had chronic anemia and of course the chemotherapy only makes it worse. I am taking iron supplements three times a day on top of receiving bi-weekly shots of Aranesp (another miracle drug that boosts your red blood cell production). This only seems to be keeping me from dropping below a very low hemoglobin count.

Recent medical developments:
I think I may have developed a hernia, I have a bulge in my abdomen and I can push it in (gross!).
My abscess (#2) has healed up but I think it may still be infected (grosser!!)
My abscess (#1) has issues that I need to discuss with my doctor (gross!)
I've also been getting really chilled when I shouldn't be, seems to come and go as well (weird)
Unfortunately both Amy and Alena are feeling ill, and Amy seems to have hurt her hand/wrist.

We're a mess but we're hanging in there and enjoying the visit with our family and friends.

Living Strong in the face of cancer every day.....

Andrew

A few pints later....

2005-11-16T19:57:00.000-06:00

My last CBC showed that my hemoglobin had dropped to 7.6 again, so I went into the hospital today for a couple of units of red-blood cells. I had been fighting chronic anemia prior to starting chemo this fall, the chemo has just made this condition worse. I am feeling really good despite getting chemo yesterday. I go in tomorrow to get a shot of Aranesp, another multi-thousand dollar wonder shot that boosts my red blood cell production.

Take Care,

Andrew

Tuesday Doctor Appointment

2005-11-15T17:25:00.000-06:00

Well, we had a good conversation with my Oncologist regarding the short and long term plan regarding the Gemzar/Taxotere chemotherapy that I am undergoing. I actually gained 4lbs over the last week! The most interesting thing from the conversation was that the weight symptoms that are causing my distress could be a result of my cancer just as well as the treatment. I am of the opinion that it is the treatment, however I have been losing weight steadily since last June when I wasn't on chemo.

Today I went ahead and started part two of my first cycle. This dose is only Gemzar which is the easier one for me to tolerate. My last treatment was Gemzar/Taxotere combo which was much harder for me to tolerate. I am going to delay my G/T treatment this phase for a week so I will be feeling good for Thanksgiving. It is important to me to be able to enjoy the time with my family and the holidays have always been important to me.

Have a happy Thanksgiving

A good man passed away this morning

2005-11-13T16:22:00.000-06:00

Dave Panella, whose website is on my blogroll, reached the final stage of his race with cancer this morning. He survived pancreatic cancer for five years and inspired many people including me. Fortunately Amy, Liam, and I were able to meet Dave and his wife Kim at the Ride for the Roses. Rest in peace Dave, you will not be forgotten.

Please visit his site* to learn more about how he lived and how he fought his cancer. His website also includes a donation button if you are interested in helping the family with the tens of thousands of unpaid medical bills.

LiveStrong

Andrew

*Dave's site is http://www.davepanella.org/?page=home

11/12 Update

2005-11-12T13:51:00.000-06:00

I am finally feeling almost "ok" after that last dose of chemo. However I seem to have picked up some of the chronic side effects which I have had before. I have pretty bad Neuropathy during my BEP chemo and for about a year and a half afterwards. This chemo has brought the symptoms back. it basically makes your feet and hands ultra-sensitive to the point where buttoning a shirt is impossible (I've caught mine before it is that bad).

I am going to see my doctor next Tuesday and I plan on talking to him about my schedule. While I am feeling better, and eating better too. I am still losing weight. I weighed 132lbs last Thursday, meaning I lost 6 more pounds over the last week. The only jeans I have that fit are size 28, most from I weighed 198lbs are size 34. I really cannot afford to lose anymore weight. I am trying to gain by adding supplements and eating throughout the day. Hopefully I will have gained weight at my next weigh-in.

I am feeling good and I am enjoying my weekend. I hope all is well with you.

LiveStrong,

Andrew

Today is a good day

2005-11-08T14:23:00.000-06:00

So far so good, I think the toxins from the chemo are slowly fading out. I am still weighing my options and plan on talking to my oncologist at my next visit. I really would like to feel good during Thanksgiving, we are planning on visiting my parents and my brother.

Livestrong,

Andrew

Update

2005-11-07T11:49:00.000-06:00

Well, I finished the first round of Gemzar last week. I have felt really crappy ever since. Lots of Nausea, vomiting, and almost no appetite. The weight loss is really starting to catch up with me, last weigh I was 138lbs, I was about 197lbs before my last surgery. It's to the point where I am scared that I won't be able to gain more weight while going through more chemo. I am seriously considering calling this treatment to a halt until I can get healthy. If you saw me in person you would shocked at how skinny I am, I am shocked and it is weighing on my mental state. Along with the other problems I have endured over the past months.

Here is a brief rundown of my medical treatments for cancer the last two years:

9/03 - 4xBEP chemo - very strong chemo, very strong side effects. I was in my best shape and was able to endure it well.
1/04 - Radical Prostatectomy - I bounced back pretty well and finished my undergrad that spring.
11/04 - Radical Lymphnodectomy - Again I recovered from the surgery pretty well.
1/05 - 4xAdria (The Red Devil) - I tolerated the chemo well, lost some weight but bounced back shortly after completion.
6/05 - Radical pelvic resection - I lost my bladder, rectum, and most of the surrounding tissue with the hope of curing the disease. This surgery still has lingering effects and I have yet to fully recover.
7/05 - neutron Therapy - In the hope of controlling the local disease in my pelvis I had this type of radiation. It is at this time I find out that I have lung mets (tumors), last count was 20.
9/05 - Ifosimide/DTIC - I had one week of this chemo and almost went crazy, I stopped it.
10/05 - Gemzar - My last option, quality of life concerns are forcing me to face whether the treatment is worthwhile.

So as you can see I have a lot on my mind right now.

--I went by my oncology clinic today and had my blood counts checked, they were all good!

Happy Halloween

2005-11-02T16:40:00.000-06:00

I just had to share some photos

13 ways to combat cancer

2005-10-29T12:43:00.000-05:00

The Cincinnati Enquirer ran an article on what you can do to lessen the chances of getting cancer. You can read the article by clcking here.

I'm free!

2005-10-28T14:21:00.000-05:00

I was released from the hospital early today and have been enjoying being home with the family. The Doctor liked the continued progression of the abcesess and feels that it will continue to drain until healed on it's own. This now makes two active abcesesses that I have in my body with no explanation as to why. There have been guesses, could it be a internal urinary leak - No, tests ruled that out. I'm just praying that I don't have another one of these things brewing inside me and I'll be able to get more active.

Livestrong,

Andrew

Mammograms Validated as Key in Cancer Fight

2005-10-27T20:52:00.000-05:00

An article in today's NY Times shows how critical Mammograms are in the fight against breast cancer. Definitely information that should be shared with your loved ones.

"A study, being published today in The New England Journal of Medicine, concludes that 28 to 65 percent of the sharp decrease in breast cancer deaths from 1990 to 2000 was due to mammograms. The rest was attributed to powerful new drugs to treat breast cancer."

2005 World Champions!!

2005-10-27T15:23:00.000-05:00

Thursday, Thursday.....

2005-10-27T14:44:00.000-05:00

GO SOX! 4-0 sweep of the Astros!! They looked amazing in this World Series. I wish I was in Sweet Home Chicago, I bet they had a good time last night.

Besides watching the Sox win the series 4-0, I got to lay in bed and express the lovely fluid from abscess. It was accompanied with a lovely bouquet, a real treat for the nose. This was all in an effort to avoid another surgery, albeit a minor one.

And it paid off, this morning my doctor agreed that I would not need the surgery and that the natural draining was sufficient. I am staying today for observation and should be released tomorrow. Amy and I are using the time to try and get caught up with forms and tasks that have built up since the RFTR took over our lives.

Livestrong,

Andrew

Back in the hopsital again

2005-10-26T22:42:00.000-05:00

Last night I was running 103 degree fever. When I went to bed, I found a pretty large, uncomfortable lump on my upper thigh. I immediately started to wonder if this was related to the abcess in my abdomen that I got back in July. I called the on-call doctor because the pain was pretty severe. After talking with the on-call we decided to call my oncologist in the morning to see if I could get in to see him. Well, I couldn't get an appointment because he was out of town. Luckily I already had an appointment set up with my local surgeon, Dr. Milsten. Once there, it was determined that we were dealing with an abcess or hematoma. They took a couple of blood samples and did a CT. The CT looked consistent with an abcess, because they could see an air pocket on the film (representing bacteria present). Dr. Milsten had me admitted tonight. I'm receiving platelets through the night (I'm too low for surgery at - 62,000). They scheduled surgery for 8:00am to put in a drain which will help relieve some pressure and give the infected fluid a way out.

GO White Sox!!!

2005-10-25T19:24:00.000-05:00

The Chicago White Sox are going to the World Series! If they win, they will be the first Chicago baseball team to do so since 1917 and this is their first appearance since 1959.

I've always been a Sox fan because of my Godfather Jerry who passed away quite a while ago. We would visit regularly on our yearly Chicago vacations and Jerry would always take us to old Comisky to see the White Sox play. That and my brother and father have always been rabid Cub fans so I would enjoy giving them a hard time by rooting for the sox. I know that this is sacrilege in Chicago, but I live in Oklahoma so I think I can get away with it. I just laugh at all the people who feed into the whole North side / South side Cub / Sox arguments.

LIVESTRONG CHI SOX! 2-0 Let's go for 3-0!!!!

Delayed for a week

2005-10-25T12:51:00.000-05:00

Well, I went into the outpatient treatment facility today to get my second dose of Gemzar and my first dose of Taxotere. They ran a CBC blood test and it showed my platelets had dropped to 48, on my previous CBC it was 193. So my chemotherapy treatments have been delayed until next week. As long as my platelet count is restored to a reasonable amount everything will be back on schedule (+1 Week).

Yellow team ride

2005-10-24T18:27:00.000-05:00

Photos from the Friday morning private ride with Lance. Unfortunately I was sick that morning so I couldn't ride with him but he still met me and the family afterwards so we could still get a pic. The rider with the devilish grin in the yellow Discovery Team Jersey is Robin Williams.

CCC Dinner Group Photo

2005-10-24T18:21:00.000-05:00

More Photos from RFTR 2005

2005-10-24T18:06:00.000-05:00

More photos from Austin! The first photo is at the Congress "Bat" Bridge, home to millions of bats. Believe it or not there was a massive stream of bats flying out from the bridge, however my camera did a poor job of capturing them. We found a new favorite restaraunt called "The Shady Grove" . It was a good ole southern menu and had the cool atmosphere with the trailers in the grove. I also included a photo of the big guy on one of his first flights (he was very excited to fly).

Photos from RFTR 2005!

2005-10-24T17:52:00.000-05:00

These are all photos from the day of the ride at the fairgrounds. As you'll notice I didn't end up riding because I was just too exhausted and in too much pain to handle even a 7-mile ride. I felt good though because my 7 year old Liam rode with my brother Dan, my wife Amy, my Dad (Frank the "Judge" Molenda), and the CCC crew in my honor. You'll also notice a group photo of the CCC crew and my family getting lined up for the start of the ride. We had to take shuttles at 5:15 AM to go to the race! That's why some of the photos look weird.

We are in Austin!!

2005-10-20T20:26:00.000-05:00

And I am beat! I can't believe we made it through everything between the flights and schleping all our crap between planes. But it was all made better when we arrived in Austin started meeting some friends from the CCC (Cyclists Combating Cancer).

The tandem bike that Dan arranged for us to ride on is a beast. I'll get some pics and post them soon.

So far So good

2005-10-18T15:02:00.000-05:00

I finished my Gemzar treatment this afternoon and had no complications. I pretty much slept right through it all. They also ran a CBC on me and my HGB was down to a 7.1, the lowest over the past couple months. So I get to go into the hospital for 3 units of blood, a little boost for the RFTR!

-Andrew

Tomorrow is the day

2005-10-17T16:47:00.000-05:00

Chemo begins again. This time it is "GEMZAR" a new drug for me, but a one that has shown promise on soft tissue sarcoma cells. No one knows how well it will work on my specific type of sarcoma, since it can't really be typed by the pathologists.

My pain in my legs, hips, and back seems to be under some moderate control with the recent increase in pain meds (40mg Oxycontin - 3xday, 10mg Lortab - As needed). Along with a nice wooden cane my parents bought me from Amish country in Ohio, and of course the wheel chair if I have to be on my feet much. I used the wheel chair at the store the other day but ended up get winded pretty easily.

I got a letter from my employer asking me to apply for "Long Term Disability". This will cut my pay and my job will no longer be held for me if I reach a remission period. This obviously is a cause of stress for both Amy and I, but we'll make it. Just another hurdle along the path.

Good friends from the TC Community

2005-10-08T18:57:00.000-05:00

They heard about my recent changes in my prognosis and decided that they wanted to do something that would help me and my family handle whatever we are dealt by raising funds. If you are interested in making a donation please do so by clicking this link

Update from my last Dr. Visit

2005-10-07T19:41:00.000-05:00

I saw my oncologist the beginning of this week. We talked about Ifosimide and DTIC and why I had such a harsh reaction. We also talked about potential chemotherapy drugs, Gemzar and Taxotere. I'm still trying to decide whether I want to jump into chemo right now, or give my body more time to heal. The most troubling news out of the appointment was that my oncologist does not believe I would be healthy enough to get off a respirator if I had lung surgery. So, this doesn't rule anything out, it just means that I might need to give my body time off without pushing it like I have been with surgeries, chemos, and radiation.

My Cousin Jenny and her infant son Antonio came to visit

2005-10-04T18:45:00.000-05:00

The whole family enjoyed getting to to visit with them this weekend. They arrived in late Saturday due to flight delays.

Here are some pics from the weekend:

Two Brothers

2005-09-28T18:28:00.000-05:00

My Brother, Dan visited from Saturday through today. It was the longest, non-hospital related time that I have been able to spend with him since he moved to Detroit. We all loved the visit and look forward to seeing him for Austin as well as Thanksgiving.

LIVESTRONG - Andrew

See you later, Dan.

Here's a pic of the two of us (we must have felt a classic rock vibe):

Princess Alena

2005-09-26T20:57:00.000-05:00

That's my little angel during her birthday party.

Thanks for all the great e-mails!

2005-09-26T17:38:00.000-05:00

I sent out my last posting to my friends and family. I really appreciate the replies.

My Brother, Dan and my Dad flew in over the weekend to spend time with all of us. Saturday we celebrated my little girl's third birthday. It was a "princess b-day", very fitting.

Last week I got a wheelchair and my pain meds were increased to help my with my back/leg problems. Still dealing with a degenerative condition, it just was clear for cancer.

I am talking to my oncologist about starting a much less toxic chemo called Gemzar. Once I meet with him I'll have more to talk about.

Ride for the Roses is less than a month away!

LIVESTRONG - Andrew

I got GREAT news today!

2005-09-22T14:30:00.000-05:00

The PET came out negative for metastatic cancer in my back or pelvis! The only tumors that showed in the test were the lung mets which I already knew about. This makes a huge difference in my prognosis, this is the best news I have had since my last clear CT scan back in 2004!

I still have a lot of pain and some kind of post-surgical inflammation responsible for it. But I'll take that any day. I was really getting conditioned to getting positive test results in my fight. I can't wait for October in Austin, even if I have to do it in a wheelchair.

LIVESTRONG - Andrew

Region 7 of the NLRB

2005-09-21T16:14:00.000-05:00

I wanted to post a copy of the article that was run in this month's NLRB (National Labor Relations Board) newsletter. Back in June my brother, Dan, organized an event to commemorate LiveStrong Day.

Top'd off

2005-09-20T18:15:00.000-05:00

Went into the hospital today for a couple of units of blood. I am feeling much better, my anemia was getting bad. My bone marrow is just not what it used to be after all it's been through. The infusion floor at St. John's is really nice it made the time go by quickly. I get my PET scan tomorrow to see if this stuff in my back is a tumor.

The pain/lack of strength in my back and legs is getting worse. I went ahead and requested a handicapped permit for my car and a wheelchair. If I want to be able to do anything that requires a lot of walking I'll have to have a wheelchair.

LiveStrong,

Andrew

Photo of the Molenda boys

2005-09-19T18:38:00.000-05:00

Me and my two sons (Evan 1yr, Liam 6yrs)

So much has happened since I started chemo last week

2005-09-18T11:17:00.000-05:00

I was given three days of ifosimide and DTIC as my chemo regimen. The ifosimide can have a neuro-toxic affect. I got it in spades. I had a lot of confusion, motor control problems, hallucinations, basically an encephalitc response. It was unbearable, I don't know if it was this chemo or just the total effect of my last surgery and neutron therapy. But I could not continue the chemotherapy it was driving me crazy. I have read that prior Cisplatin treatment can make those symptoms worse.

Thursday night I had a MRI of my back, they were concerned that I had metastatic tumors that were not showing in the bone scan. Friday I found out that there is something wrapped around my nerves in my back. Friday night I had a MRI of my brain, they were concerned that I had metastatic tumors in my head. Sunday, I found out that there are no tumors in my brain! Seems weird to type those words. I have a PET scan scheduled for Wednesday to see how advanced my disease has become and I plan on meeting with my oncologist to sort out what my options are at this point.

LIVESTRONG - Andrew

September is:

2005-09-14T19:15:00.000-05:00

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month
Leukemia & Lymphoma Awareness Month
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month - Prostate Cancer Awareness Week (Sept. 18 - 24)

Livestrong e-cards

2005-09-13T19:37:00.000-05:00

The LAF has launched these e-cards to encourage survivor's friends and families to join the team and add their voice to survivorship issues. You can do so by clicking here.

9/13 Update

2005-09-13T13:02:00.000-05:00

I had my pre-chemo appointment with my oncologist. The results of my bone-scan were finally revealed. Everything looked normal. However since my pain in my back/hip/leg continues to get worse they want to do an MRI to figure out what is going on. That should happen this week. I begin chemo tomorrow it'll take about 4-5 hours. This time I will have an IV pump hooked up during the three treatment days so I can get a steady flow of one of the meds.

When I got home I shot a fever of 102, hopefully it's just what the kids had earlier this week and not my abscess becoming a systemic infection.

I go in early in the morning to start my chemo and I'll see what they think of my fever.

LIVESTRONG

TGIF

2005-09-09T07:12:00.000-05:00

What a week. I've had a doctors appointment, a "port placement", and a bone scan all crammed into three days. I am looking forward to accomplishing very little today and over the weekend. I noticed that they are actually showing the Chicago Bears / Washington Redskins game in Tulsa! I am a diehard Bears fan, I've had the NFL Sunday Ticket for the past few years but I decided to switch to cable this year. Needless to say I am going through some NFL withdrawals.

LiveStrong

Couple of things

2005-09-07T18:14:00.000-05:00

Well today I got my port installed. Really a minor procedure but it ended up taking most of my day since hospitals are so over-booked anymore. Besides a little soreness it feels almost 100%. It will make my chemotherapy much more bearable.

I was also featured the LAF's advocacy newsletter this month. You can check it out by clicking here. I think they did a really good job.

LIVESTRONG

One week till D-Day

2005-09-06T13:07:00.000-05:00

It's official my first day of chemotherapy, Ifosimide/DTIC, begin next Tuesday. We should find out after two cycles whether or not it is working. If it is working that means more chemo(woo hoo) if not it means either other chemo or a clinical trial.

Thanks to everyone for their support, e-mails, calls, letters. We are all focused on making the next years of my life memorable and to continue to help define what LiveStrong means.

Take Care,

Andrew

Post Dr. appt. update

2005-09-01T14:51:00.000-05:00

I went to see my local oncologist today. It looks like next week I'll have a couple of procedures. They're installing a port for the chemo, this will be nice since my veins are all shot from the last two chemo regimens. And I'm going to have a bone scan. The reason for the bone scan is that I have had back pain for almost a month and we need to determining if it could be caused by a tumor. Sarcoma can easily spread to the bone. It looks like I'll be starting chemo as early as 9/12, I should know more next week.

LIVESTRONG - Andrew

--Thanks to everyone that has made donations to my peloton account, I am currently at $4,369! Regardless of meeting my goal, I am proud of every dollar that I have raised for cancer survivorship.

Just for fun

2005-08-30T14:02:00.000-05:00

This is from a party at my fraternity at the University of Oklahoma. This is Spring 1994, I was a college freshman. An old tradition at the Sigma Nu house was a Spring part called "Borderdance", which included a small rodeo in the front yard. We had a rodeo pen, hired cowboys to run it, and about 30 bulls. It was open to anyone for a small fee. Those were two of the most intense seconds of my life. Still makes me smile.

LAF Fundraising Update

2005-08-29T14:16:00.000-05:00

The deadline is approaching for my 2005 fundraising for the Lance Armstrong Foundation. My goal this year was to raise $7500. Despite all the adversity I have faced my account is up to $3519. I am proud that I have raised so much in the face of cancer.

However the deadline is till 9/16 for electronic donations at this link.

If you know of anyone or any business that would be interested in helping me meet the $7500 goal feel free to share my blog, my story, and the donation link.

Take care and LiveStrong.

For more information on the foundation click here.

What a drive

2005-08-28T15:37:00.000-05:00

Amy and I did the drive from Seattle to Tulsa (2,050 mi) in two days! It was quite an experience. Yesterday we drove from Billings, Montana to Tulsa (1,233 mi). Some of the highlights of the drive:

My car became a gigantic flyswatter, there is literally a layer of dead bugs across the front bumper.

We saw two motorcycle accidents and one car accident, unfortunately they all seemed fatal. Cured me of my desire to buy a motorcycle. They are fun, but just too dangerous.

We stopped at a gas station in Oklahoma just south of the Kansas border. I didn't realize it until I got out of the car, but the station was being swarmed by bugs. It was the most disgusting thing I've ever seen. The ground was covered with them, you could see a path of where my car drove in and squashed them.

Amy got a speeding ticket in Colorado, she wants me to add that I did get a ticket on the way to Seattle in Wyoming. We're starting to think my new hood is getting too much attention from the highway patrol.

All in all it was a road trip we'll never forget. It is really nice to be home in Oklahoma and to see my kids again.

To everyone who sent me an e-mail, I really appreciate your support.

LiveStrong

"Nobody is promised tomorrow" - Walter Payton #34 (Hall of Fame Running Back, Cancer Survivor, Cancer Fatality)

Mt. Rainier Photos

2005-08-28T15:29:00.000-05:00

Some of the glacial rivers, natural waterfalls, and wildflowers I mentioned earlier. One pic is of Amy and my brother in law Trey at the Nisqually river.

-Andrew

Chihuly's bridge of glass - Tacoma, WA

2005-08-28T15:25:00.000-05:00

Photos from Pikes Fish Market in Seattle

2005-08-28T15:20:00.000-05:00

Dick's Hamburgers

2005-08-28T15:17:00.000-05:00

This is a cool old drive in near the UW campus. They've been there since the 50's, a good greasy burger.

Photos from the Nature Preserve on Bainbridge Isl.

2005-08-28T15:13:00.000-05:00

Some photos from the nature preserve that Amy and my sister Miranda visited while in Seattle. It was a beautiful place. Amy has more pics on her blog.

Hello Everybody

2005-08-25T22:41:00.000-05:00

I turned comments back on, they have a new feature called word verification that will slow down the spam.

Today has been rough. We met with the Sarcoma specialist and were told what we really already knew but didn't want to hear (does that make sense?). My cancer is to a point where there really is no curative treatment available. The only treatments (chemo, clinical trials, surgery) out there will simply buy me more time and delay the inevitable. He said that if I didn't pursue any treatments he would guess that I would live about 2 more years. Hopefully with treatments I can extend that window.

This leaves me with more questions and problems. I have to figure out how to break it to my oldest son, I have to make plans for what will happen afterwards, and how this will affect the rest of my life.

I know that a lot of people that have followed me and this blog will be angry/sad etc. That's perfectly normal, we are too. I do feel like I have reached a peaceful state of mind regarding the inevitable. I feel blessed to have experienced what I have and the opportunities that I have been given. I know many people in this world never will have those same opportunities. When I do die it will be a beautiful happy thing. It will give me relief from this disease. At that time it will be the best thing for me.

But let's not get too far ahead, I should have years not days or months. I plan on using those therapies to buy as much time as possible and I definitely plan on living life to the fullest. We are going to the Ride for the Roses in Austin, We are going to take the kids to DisneyWorld, and if my health permits we plan on going to Ireland with my parents.

To borrow a movie quote, "Everyman dies, few men truly live". I feel like I truly live and have no regrets, I hope that you do too.

LIVESTRONG

Andrew

The Cancer Debt

2005-08-23T11:20:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine made a recent post on his blog, which I wanted to share with everyone. His point about being indebted to those that support you is dead on. That's what motivates me to do what I have done with the LAF and the community to raise awareness and share my story. Anything to be able to make a difference.

LIVESTRONG - Andrew

Mt. Rainier

2005-08-22T23:17:00.000-05:00

Today Amy, Trey (Amy's brother) and I drove to Mount Rainier National Park today. It was beautiful, even though it was too cloudy to see the peak. We saw natural waterfalls, glacial rivers, alpine timber lines, and meadows. Definitely worth the drive and the entry fee, if time permitted we would go back on a clearer day, but it won't. I'll try to post some photos from our little trip later.

LIVESTRONG

Andrew

What a week!

2005-08-19T22:20:00.000-05:00

Amy and I got to wake up at 5:00 AM so I could make a 8:30 appointment with the interventional radiology department. We ended up waiting until 1:00 PM before they actually got me in for the procedure. They inserted a drain for an abscess that has formed as a result of my surgery. I feel better after the procedure and this will allow it to heal properly. I was literally ready to walk out of the office before they called my name, I hadn't eaten all day and I was going to be late for my radiation.

One quick trip under the microwave and we got out of the hospital around 2:30. That's about 6 hours in the hospital :(

We ate an early dinner since we were starving and braved the traffic to get on the ferry. We ended up getting on the 6:20 ferry and getting home a little after 7:00. Talk about a long day! Hopefully next week will be uneventful, Amy and I have both decided that we don't need to spend another minute in the radiology department.

LIVESTRONG

Have a great weekend.

Week #4 is almost done!

2005-08-18T18:01:00.000-05:00

One more day and week #4 is in the books. With one more week of treatment left I am really getting excited about going home. I got the results of the CT of my head and chest. The good news is that my brain is normal. My lungs on the other hand have multiple nodes. The largest is about 2.5 cm. Amy and I counted about 17 from what we saw, and we are not radiologists. I meet with a Sarcoma specialist next week and I hope to have a treatment plan or at least treatment options to choose from after that meeting. It may mean more surgery, more chemo, and maybe a clinical trial.

I don't know what my future holds, but I do know that I have a wonderful support system of family and friends. With their help I plan on fighting like hell.

LIVESTRONG - It's the only way to live

Another long day

2005-08-16T20:53:00.000-05:00

Amy and I picked up the Pontiac this morning, everything seems to be working fine on it now. Kind of frustrating to pay $500 for a little electronic piece of plastic to be replaced.

We spent about 4.5 hours at the hospital. After my radiation I had to get a shot of procrit (red blood cell booster)and I was fit in for a head and chest CT. I may hear the results as early as tomorrow, I'll let everyone know what I find out. The reason they scanned my head too, was due to my request. I want to make sure that if I have tumors in my lungs that they are contained and not also in my brain.

LIVESTRONG

--Thanks to everyone who has sent me e-mails. Even if I don't respond to every one of them I do read them and they mean a lot to me.

Sorry

2005-08-14T19:59:00.000-05:00

To have laid such a bombshell on everyone in my last post. But that's how it is, one day you think you have everything in control then you visit your doctor and everything changes in a heartbeat.

I'm not shaken, I'm still determined to fight like hell, and I plan on giving it everything I've got.

LIVESTRONG - Andrew

Good News for people that love Bad News

2005-08-13T20:47:00.000-05:00

Well the hits just keep coming.

Friday prior to my appointment with a Sarcoma Specialist, I got the results on my car. Turned out to be an anti-theft module that is going cost $500 to get fixes. I really don't have any choice sine I am marooned on the island without my car. I definitely see the irony in have to pay so much for an "anti-theft" device.

At the end of my appointment I found out even worse news. The last CT that was performed of my pelvis included about a third of my lungs. Turns out there are at least 6 new tumors in my lungs. A full scan is being scheduled for next week and we'll discuss my options. When the doctor told me the news, my first question was "Is this a death sentence" he said no, but that he couldn't guarantee 5 years at this point. Once Sarcoma has spread to the lungs it becomes harder to deal with and this is quite scary news to hear.

One tearful call home and a shuttle ride later I received my radiation and headed to the Airport. I got into Tulsa at 12:19 this morning. Being home is nice I really missed the kids and Amy. I've got more tough roads to travel but I am feeling ok and I am focused to fight.

LIVESTRONG - It is a way of life

Broke Down Car Blues

2005-08-11T21:36:00.000-05:00

Today I made it through my routine and was in line to make the 3:00 ferry. And once it was my turn to start up and drive on the ferry, my car decided not to start! It actually would start get to idle and then die over and over again. Luckily I was near the back so not too many people had to drive around me. Once I was pushed out of the way I got a tow to a nearby GM dealership and a ride back to the ferry terminal. I ended up walking onto the 6:20 ferry and taking a cab back to the house. The tow truck driver thought it was only a clogged fuel filter (which I would normally fix on my own) but I won't hear from the dealership tomorrow. I wish it had done this earlier in the week. I have an appointment with a Sarcoma specialist, my radiation therapy, and my flight back to Tulsa. (I get to see my kids and Amy for the weekend!)

definitely not something I am budgeted for, hopefully it'll just be a filter and not something larger like a pump.

The spam won't stop!!!

2005-08-11T13:22:00.000-05:00

So I have had to restrict comments even further, only Amy and I can make comments now. I have contacted blogger and if I feel that they have fixed the problem I'll relax the restrictions.

My blog got SPAM'D!

2005-08-11T00:09:00.000-05:00

I didn't know people would do this, but it happened tonight. I had about 20 comments on my last post that contained links to all the crap that gets sent out on e-mail spam. So this forced me to change my blog so only registered users can post a comment. So you'll need to register with blogger.com if you want to be able to comment on my posts.

I am sorry that I had to do this, but I can't deal with having to manually delete spam all day.

LIVESTRONG - AJM

Tire Shop Blues

2005-08-10T19:40:00.000-05:00

I've got the tire shop blues today. I ended up waiting about 3 hours to get a flat fixed this afternoon. Originally they told me it would take an hour. They literally did almost no tickets for that hour! When I asked how much longer I got a snide remark. At least I made it out of there without them trying to sell me new tires. All thanks to a nail.

The rest of my day was pretty routine. Take the ferry to Seattle, grab lunch, get radiated, head home. I usually can catch the 3:30 ferry which takes about 35 min to get me to the island. Today thanks to the tire shop, I get to wait about 1.5 hours to catch a rush hour ferry (I arrived on time for the 5:20 but had to wait for the 6:20). Luckily they have free wi-fi at the terminal. Which is where I am right now. It's 64 degrees and overcast today, I'm used to high 90s and low 100s all August in Oklahoma so I am enjoying the mild weather.

Just thought I'd make a mundane day in the life post.

LIVESTRONG

AJM

BTW - I saw the doctor today, 1/2 way done!, and they were pleased with the relatively minor side affects I have experienced.

Skin cancers becoming more common among young

2005-08-10T13:02:00.000-05:00

"In the study, doctors focused on people under 40 in Olmsted County, Minn. From 1976-1979 to 2000-2003, the combined rate of the two diseases grew from 19 cases per 100,000 people to 33 per 100,000 — a 74% increase.

Although up to 90% of such cancers typically appear on the head and neck, doctors in the study found 40% of skin cancers on other parts of the body, a change that probably reflects the effect of excessive sunbathing."

Something to think about before sunbathing or paying for your children to go to tanning booths. It hardly seems worth the risk.

Knowledge is Power in the fight against cancer.

Unity is Strength

2005-08-09T20:55:00.000-05:00

Senator John Kerry of Massachusetts and Senator John McCain of Arizona, two of the nation's most high profile Senators and cancer survivors, joined the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) in the fight against cancer by posting their personal stories about living with cancer at http://www.livestrong.org.

You can find my story there as well.

LIVESTRONG - AJM

Rest in Peace Peter

2005-08-08T13:04:00.000-05:00

Peter Jennings passed away due to advanced lung cancer.

"Westin noted that once Jennings learned of the cancer he "moved straight into an aggressive chemotherapy treatment. He knew that it was an uphill struggle. But he faced it with realism, courage and a firm hope that he would be one of the fortunate ones.""

You really can't fight it any other way.