NEW UPDATE 12-16-17

Sorry for a long delay on an update here.

Much has taken place.

Was dx. with my 5th cancer. Had MOHS cancer surgery done this past Monday. I had a fast growing lump on my forehead above my left eye. They thought it was the dreaded porocarcinoma again, but instead, was a Basel cell tumor. The surgeon said he got all of it after a 2 1/2 hour surgery. Still healing from it, got 6 stiches.

After months of testing with 2 neurologists, dx. finally made, I do have Parkinson's Disease, and probably what they call Parkinson's Plus. There are at least 5 variants of the Plus, won't know for sure which until about 3 months from now. All of them lead to rapid progression, and can hasten dementia. Still stunned with this dx. For you other Viet Nam Vets, Parkinson's is already on the Agent Orange disease list.

Monday, having a contrasted CT done of my colon on the left side. My PCP is worried I may have a tumor growing there, or it could be some new adhesions from my prior radiation damage. Said it was possible my PC has made its way there. Sure don't want another major surgery ahead.

Still in therapy with VA for major PTSD, been going over 1 1/2 years weekly sessions. My Double Depression has been reduced to just Major Depression, the Lithium seems to be keeping me somewhat in balance.

All for now. I lurk on rare moments.

David,
Wishing you well. Good news about the basal cell.
I would second Alf’s suggestion of mulled wine, with spices.
Thank you for your service.
Richard

Wishing you the best!

Bobby Mac

Welcome back!

darn, you are really going through the ringer. At least it is Basal cell!

Wow. Tough road to hoe. You are one tough guy David. So sorry for all of your troubles.

Good to hear from you David, and I hope that you find moments of peace through all of this.
Michael

David, I think I am as stunned as everyone else. How I wish something good for you. You continue to be in my prayers and I can only hope those prayers are answered in a positive way for you.

Good Morning David I'm pretty new on here only been just a year but your story and what you have had to endure is more than what 20 people should experience in their lifetime! I'll be starting SRT tomorrow and am also on ADT when I was reading thru some of your posts saw that you lost about 15lbs during SRT was wondering were the radiation techs ok with this? They told me the most they wanted me to change my weight up or down was 5 to 8 lbs when I was getting my synchronization as this would move things around to much inside. Wishing you and your family a very very good Christmas!!

Larry

David,

Thanks so much for posting an update. I check your profile every few days to see if you've posted, so it's good to hear from you.

So sorry to hear things are not getting any better - life is often a tough pill to swallow. I wish I could offer you solace of some sort, but I am at a loss other than to say I think of you often, as I do of our mutual friend Barb. May peace find you and give you some respite from these trials.

My Lupus is remaining quiet, as long as I concentrate on restful sleep, moderate exercise, and healthy eating. Any kind of stress is an issue, so I remain as low-key as possible, while still trying to enjoy life. Just had a couple of friends help me plant 100 tulips, so am looking forward to spring.

Gentle hugs and healing thoughts,
Lynnwood

David –

With the passing of another year, we again take stock of ourselves and where fate and time have brought us.

For you we see that your fight continues, but also that your remarkable resolve and determination do as well. This in spite of serious medical issues, some of them unfortunately newly found, that would overwhelm a lesser man.

But you continue to persevere. God bless you for that.

I chose this greeting card because of its inclusion of the word "healthy" in it. May it be so for you in 2018!

/www.flickr.com/photos/khl_kew_01/25027112468/

May 2018 indeed be the year when, despite the daunting challenges you face, it all turns around for you, the road becomes smoother, and your burden becomes lighter!

Thanks for your message, David. Take care, hang in there and keep us updated.

Thank you for sharing your news David. I'm so sad to hear that your troubles have multiplied. You remain in my thoughts and prayers. For the festive drink suggested above try this- (we had it at our wedding 40 years ago yesterday)- 2 2-liter bottles of cheerwine soda and 1 large can of pineapple juice. Makes a great Christmas punch.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Healing New Year.

January 2, 2018

Wanted to thank each and everyone you that read my update and to those that replied.

Still fighting the fight, seems endless after all these years.

Last Friday, went to have the stitches removed from the skin cancer surgery, no problem, but they noticed a large area at the top of my neck at the back of my head. Just like that, a new biopsy was taken. Going to take 10 days to get results. Doctor was puzzled at what it looked like.

Friday, I go for a special MRI of my lower spine my neurologist ordered. Two appointments with the VA tomorrow. Like being a full time patient.

Thanks again