October 9 Update

Sorry for the long break between updates. Brandon decided last week to take a week off. No doctors, no treatments, no labs. Just take a week and see how he felt and how much he could eat. The last chemo treatment really knocked him back, so he needed that break. Avery also came down with a cold last week, so time slipped away while taking care of her, and the week went by without an update.

Brandon has struggled the last couple of weeks, more so than before. He said that everything from getting a glass of water to moving from the bed to the couch has been a chore. We were hopeful for the best but (somewhat) prepared for the worst going into today’s appointment. As much as you think you’re prepared, you’re not. The scan showed that Brandon’s cancer is advancing. There is a spot on his liver now, in addition to the peritoneal wall involvement. A couple of the masses have enlarged enough to cause partial obstructions, and those are causing Brandon’s difficulties with eating and keeping food down. Brandon can still eat, but he has to be careful about what he eats so he can avoid a total obstruction. The doctor didn’t push Brandon to go back on TPN because he is focusing on quality of life, and the TPN wasn’t allowing Brandon the quality of life he wants. He also said there would be no more chemo treatments because the cancer isn’t responding to the chemo anymore, and Brandon has lost enough weight that his body just can’t tolerate a different type of chemo.

There is one last piece of ammunition they may be able to use against Brandon’s cancer. There is an immunotherapy trial for rare cancers. The doctor isn’t sure he can get Brandon into this trial, and he’s not sure that the immunotherapy will help if he does. Brandon’s molecular profile didn’t show any evidence that he would respond well to this therapy, but the doctor said it wouldn’t hurt him, so he has nothing to lose by trying it if he can get approved. It will take at least a couple of weeks to find out if he is accepted, so we have another appointment with the oncologist in two weeks. In the meantime, the palliative care doctor has increased his pain medication dosages and prescribed another medication to help him sleep more soundly and consistently. This medication may also help with his appetite. If Brandon is not approved for the immunotherapy trial, the palliative care doctor will work alongside the oncologist to coordinate his care going forward with a focus on pain management and quality of life.

It takes strength and courage to fight the battle with cancer. It takes even more to admit and accept it when the fight is more than your body can handle.

 

13 thoughts on “October 9 Update

  1. Brando , Sending you Hugs and much LOVE ❤️ ❤️
    Your strength and courage have truly been an inspiration. You are in my thoughts and prayers each and every day.

  2. Brandon, sometimes it’s darkest just before dawn.. I’m continuing to pray Gods healing blessings for you and your family.
    You are such an example of a person who does not give up !
    Much respect and prayers for you.
    Kathy

  3. Brandon – We love you and we are praying for you. Thank you for your example to us of fighting and not giving up. Hugs!!!

    Joni

  4. My heart is breaking for you and your family. I am so sorry. So very sorry and I hope and pray for something peaceful and that maybe the trial therapy is beneficial.

  5. I pray for peace and comfort for you and you are in my continued prayers .i am sorry you have to go through this and if you want to persue the trial i very much hope you get approved.

  6. Im sorry for everything you are going through , i pray for peace and comfort for you. If you want to persue the trial i hope you get approved . You are always in my prayers.

  7. Brandon and family, thank you so much for this update. My heart breaks at the news that the cancer is stubbornly advancing, but I continue to send love and warmest wishes your way in spite of it. I love you and pray daily for a turnaround.

  8. Our prayers continue for you Brandon. You have been so brave and strong throughout all of this journey. We too hope that you will be accepted in the trial and good will prevail. We love you. ???

  9. B, my heart hurts hearing the update, you and your family do not deserve this, you are the greatest person, and I just still can’t believe this is even happening. I am praying you are accepted for this trial, and that things begin to look better for you. Sending love and hugs.

  10. Brandon I’m so sorry I missed your party on Sunday. I’m sorry to hear that things are not exactly going your way…You continue to be in my prayers. I hate that this is happening to you. Keep your girls close to you. You are so very very loved. Sending all my love and soft squishy hugs. Love to you and God’s peace as well. Maggie

  11. I will pray for the strength and the trial and will accept/support anything that Brandon wants! Brandon, I am your biggest fan hands down! I want anything you want! You are a very loved person!!!

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