UPDATE ON BRAD AS OF DECEMBER 10th 2004
As a brief review, on November 24th, Brad was rushed to the hospital when his right side refused to cooperate. He lost use of his right arm and has very limited use of his right leg. He went home on December 3rd having learned to use a walker for his “new wheels”. Everyday he becomes more capable of adapting to his new challenge.
Brad has completed the second week of a six week radiation plan. While in the hospital a combination of medicines dropped his blood platelet count to below a level where it became unsafe to administer chemotherapy. The medicines have been altered, his blood platelets have returned to normal, and today started chemotherapy in conjunction with radiation. In early January we will have some more scans to check his progress. I am in awe of his great spirit, sustained sense of humor and determination.
His wife Kirstin amazes me. As her life has been dramatically changed, she has risen to the challenge of nurturing Brad, organizing the many appointments and making all the necessary arrangements for him to receive the very best care possible. No easy task with five month old Nathan. Brad has rightly placed complete faith in her judgments. They were a strong couple before this diagnosis and have become even stronger under these adverse conditions.
Another great story is observing their friends, coworkers and strangers. So many people have reached out to offer assistance. The support from the family, friends, friends of friends and the community has been tremendous. Thank you all for your concern, participation, and prayers.
To be continued………..Pops