Thursday, October 6
I sit next to Laurie in this steel tube cruising at 650 mph, 33,000 ft. above ground. We are en route to visit the east coast family. I cannot tell you how excited I am! Over the next three weeks, I will play with young kids, share the lives of young adult millennials and reminisce with my (not so) young brothers, sisters and in-laws. Oh yea!
That said, now the hiccup…………..Ever since that fateful day of April 14, when it was confirmed that I have a serious form of metastatic prostate cancer, we have received nothing but good news! Well, the streak is now broken.
I am halfway through the 3-month post chemotherapy-waiting phase of my cancer treatment and it is blood test time. Yesterday, I received results, which show a 45% increase in PSA level. This is the first increase since treatment commenced. Laurie and I did not expect this! Perhaps alarmed is too strong a word; disappointed or concerned may be more accurate.
Dr. Beer, our oncologist, is equally concerned and has immediately laid out a comprehensive plan, starting with a PSA retest in 3 weeks. We feel extremely fortunate for his empathy, guidance and expertise and continue to hope for the best and prepare for the worst.
Our rollercoaster saga continues……………….
Mmmm that is a bummer. I trust you’ll make the most of your trip back east. Love you Mikey!!
I love you too Mikey!! And Laurie too!!! Holding on with you on the rollercoaster. Hope you both enjoy time on the East coast.
Mikey and Laurie we are so glad you get to visit the fam back east (aka the ones you haven’t talked into moving to Eugene) The Heils have a knack for play, stories, and laughter which is great medicine!
That PSA news is not what we’ve been praying for, but are hoping that what goes up must come down.
By the way, it seems that the middle school should have doubled down on you and had you teaching English and Math. Love your writing and “keeping it real.”
Jacob and Anna are visiting Indy next weekend- just what the homesick parents need!
Hi Mike,
I’m so sorry to hear about the PSA number. I know your treatment team told you from the beginning that they would have additional plans if this should happen. My thoughts are with you both and with them for this next part of the journey. In the meantime … enjoy that visit!!!
Whenever in doubt….Breath deeply. Life is full of surprises and miracles!
If you are able, set those PSA thoughts to the side and take a vacation. You are in the perfect setting. Also, enjoy the fall colors, that fresh east coast air (kidding) and the family that surrounds you and holds you both tight! Hugs upon your return! Once again…with love and much admiration.
I can close my eyes and see and feel you and Laurie back East. And, I can hear the laughter of the Heil’s; a remedy for any illness. I can’t wait to see you in November and resume our cribbage game. I think I’m winning, Right!
Take care my friend as you and Laurie remain in my thoughts daily.
Brazos a tu alrededor.
Lana
Dear Mike and Laurie-
Have been reading the posts and getting vicarious thrills reading about recent adventures. Equally not happy with what I am reading today and like you putting faith in the docs and the modern medicine that has been so awesome thus far. I am outta town till Oct. 22nd. Hope we can plug into your schedule after that when you have time. Love, Pam
And should have said…..enjoy that trip!! I know you will as family and friends and kids are such good medicine!