QOL - Quality of Life

I can't believe it's been almost 6 years since Blake's stage IV diagnosis and 4-years since his recurrence. At that time, the 5-year survival was 8% which he has clearly surpassed. Then, when he had his recurrence, we were told 18 -24 months and that was 4 years ago.

Over the last few months, Blake has been having more bad days then good.  The tumors are now in his lungs (“too many to count”) as well as peritoneum, abdomen and pelvis.   He started a new chemo regimen of 2 months on (4 treatments) then 2 months off but when it was time for the 4^th treatment, he just couldn’t do it.   After 80+/- chemo treatments, Blake has decided he's done.   There is another chemo called Erbitux and studies show it improves survival by 50% (increasing 6 months to 9 months) but Blake's not interested in receiving it.  To him, 3 extra months is not worth sacrificing his quality of life.  A good friend who is also fighting colon cancer told me that she won't die with "chemo in her veins" and that's Blake's choice as well.  It's his choice and our family completely respects it.  Please don’t think Blake’s given up on life; he's choosing to LIVE without the interruption of doctor appointments, scans & chemo.  Although he is weak and tires easily, if you saw him right now you wouldn’t believe he was sick.  In fact, I would encourage visits is you’re so inclined but please call ahead as some days are better than others. 

We’ve met with Hospice and they’re now coming to our home as needed; at least weekly for now.  Because he's doing pretty well, I started thinking we may have started too early but according to the Hospice nurse, this is the perfect time to start as they’ll be able to get to know the patient and family without being in crisis mode.  And, although nobody can predict a timeframe, knowing what is coming our way helps us cope.  So far, I appreciate what they have to offer. 

So, that's our update. I hope it's not too depressing.  We’ve had a very good life before, during and after diagnosis; this has not been a death sentence but a reminder to enjoy life & not sweat the small stuff. 

Despite what I just said, I must be honest (and blunt) in saying this COMPLETELY SUCKS. 
Nobody, should have to deal this……… cancer is downright EVIL and unfair.