Strength

I blogged very briefly before about Grandpa. We got some devastating news after Christmas. Grandpa had a liver biopsy done before Christmas and we were waiting for baited breath for the results. His doc had an MRI done because they wanted to see where the Melanoma had metastasized to. The bad news is that it has spread to his liver.

The black and white is. Stage 4. Inoperable. Liver Cancer. No radiation. Chemo only. Doctor has said that without chemo he may have 6 months. Not an easy diagnosis to take for anyone.

I had a chance to talk w/Grandpa right after the diagnosis and he has decided to go for the chemo, he said what to I have to lose? We are very fortunate that he is completely a symptomatic with this insidious cancer- has not felt any pain or discomfort or problems which makes the diagnosis that much harder. He did say though that if this had come a year ago he would not have considered the chemo after seeing what it has done to friends and family.

Every family gathering is going to be doubly important this year. I am trying very hard not to over think or let the what ifs take over. I want to be strong.

Had a chance to hang out w/ dad for a bit tonight, he went to go see grandpa at home earlier tonight and said he is doing good but tired, said is taking more naps. Did you know chemotherapy comes in pill form now? Found out tonight that Grandpa is done with chemo until next month. Takes his chemo like a one a day vitamin. Lets hope its beneficial & that he doesn't need to go in for the chemo in liquid form. yet.

I am very proud of my grandpa for his strength and courage.



This photo is from my cousin's wedding in June 09