Here is an update on Chuck since I haven't posted anything about his condition for a while. The news hasn't been great. Please keep Sara and Chuck in your prayers as they make decisions about the future! This is written by their neighbor, Lee.
Dear Friends,
Those of you who have followed Chuck's battle with cancer this past year, know that he has shown great determination and strength. As you already know, Chuck and Sara received the crushing news right before Thanksgiving that traditional chemotherapy was no longer viable and they began the search for a clinical trial. Earlier this month Chuck began the experimental treatment which consisted of transmitting chemo drugs directly into his liver via a port in his groin. Contrary to Sara's last posting, the process was brutal and Chuck lost yet another 7-8# and he now weighs 60-70#'s less than when this all began. Shortly after returning to their Houston hotel to recover from the procedure, Chuck declared, "No more chemo."
The next step was meeting with the alternative medicine doctor who will take a holistic approach to the cancer treatment -- this treatment has the same odds of success as the clinical trial chemo treatment. Chuck and Sara are mov ing into this next phase with the same determination and positive attitude as they have all through this struggle, but it is wearing on both of them. During this treatment, they will be able to live at home in Tampa with frequent trips to Houston, and Sara is able to return to work.
Stopping the chemo treatments was an extremely difficult decision for Chuck. Both Chuck and Sara need all our love and support and patience during this very difficult time Chuck's energy is limited because of the cancer; Sara's energy is limited because of her job, and the incredible stress of Chuck's disease and needs. There are so many things they wish they could do -- like visit friends, answer calls and write emails -- but they have to take what energy they do have and expend it wisely. Right now, they just need our love with no expectations.
We have just learned that Chuck's most recent tests show that his cancer tumors continue to grow despite his recent chemo treatment, thus reinforcing his decision to discontinue that treatment. He has begun the alternative medicine treatment including megadoses of tumeric, and this week at least, he is feeling good. As always, keep Chuck and Sara in your thoughts and prayers. Please continue to let them know you're thinking of them with emails, texts, cards (sent to their home address at 8733 Bay Pointe Drive, Tampa FL 33615) or messages here on the website.
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