4 YEARS

Last Monday (10/24) was the 4-year mark from when we found out Blake had colon cancer and that he needed to get into a colorectal surgeon ASAP. An appt was scheduled with the surgeon where we learned that the "tumor" needed to come out. Not only did we not know the stage, we had no idea that it had spread to the liver as well. Seeing a few diagrams in the room, I asked what stage? Stage 4, OK.... how many stages? 4 stages.

We left the surgeons office in a fog. I fell apart in the parking lot but Blake didn’t, he never really did. He just held me and told me everything would be fine. He was calm and collected. I'm not sure he realized he was in a fight for his life, but he was steadfast that everything would be okay. Telling the kids was rough. Blake was with Jenny & Cody and I was with Jess, Tanner & Danielle. Many tears were shed that night but Blake continued to assure us all that everything would be fine.

Blake has proven he's an amazing fighter & has a will and determination like no other. He has "messed with the stats" by surpassing any timeframe given. Yesterday, he said "I wish the "C" would just give up." It’s safe to say we all feel the same way.

It seems he’s feeling a little better today but last few days have been a struggle. I'm not sure if it's the cancer or the side effects of chemo - but he's frustrated, discouraged and very, very tired. Even though it's the same chemo he's had dozens of times before, it's really different this time. The last 4 treatments have been brutal. Could you please do me a favor? Could you please throw some good-wishes, positive thoughts & prayers our way? He has done so well.... in the last 4 years, he's been able to proudly watch his family grow and mature into fine young adults, he's met 2 more granddaughters, we've had some wonderful times with family & friends, etc. - all while he’s worked FULL TIME! Please pray that Blake will get this wish and the "C" will just go away.

Thank you for caring. We love you all.


Kathy