Author Topic: Ive Got Cancer (Read 84794 times)

drums4money · « **Reply #90 on:** April 02, 2015, 10:06:24 PM »

Quote from: EVDavid on April 01, 2015, 02:41:30 PM

Praying for you Rick and hoping you will find support from all your unknown Guzzi friends helpful.

THIS!

I've thought about how to reply since seeing the title of the thread the other day. Didn't even open it just thinking about how tough a man you must be to even title the thread.

Best wishes and total support.

poorBob · « **Reply #91 on:** April 02, 2015, 10:09:34 PM »

Rick,

Your attitude is very important in this ride. You have a bad-ass storm between you and where you have to be (healed). You have no choice but to ride through it. Suit up (faith and friends) and have no illusions about this being easy. It won't be easy and it won't be fun but you can ride through this. When the conditions get nasty and you start to think "this sucks" you will be right - trust your God and reach out to your friends for encouragement. Pace yourself and think about the victory ride you will take when you have won.

Tazio really had the best comment in this thread and I can't compete with that but I am praying for you.

johnr · « **Reply #92 on:** April 02, 2015, 11:02:39 PM »

Not good news Rick.

I have no experience of cancer (yet) but I did go go through a medical event that was life threatening and involved open heart surgery a couple of years ago.

I want to say things here about attitude. I just hope it's appropriate and helpful.

You know, when we are born to this world we all come with a death sentence. It's pre-agreed that this is a temporary adventure, but many seem to go through life ignoring this.

You have a "body failure" and will need to fix it. That's not going to be the best time of your life, but from what has been posted previous it seems that there is no reason to suppose that it won't be successful.

So enough of this 'being tough' for your family. You don't have to do that. Your family (which you are lucky to have) will support you in this time.

However there is little point in worry either, though it is hard not to.

In my case I knew going in that the operation I was going to have has a 6% mortality rate. That doesn't sound to bad, but consider, if a lottery gave you a 6% chance of winning you would surely buy a ticket.

During the op I had one of those Out Of Body experiences you hear about. I think it occurred when my heart was stopped. ( they cool it until it stops beating) In that state I had a close look at what the surgeon was doing to my leg (extracting arteries for the bypasses that were part of the deal) then decided that the surgeons would do what they would do and I would survive or I would not, so I might as well buzz off and do some other stuff. There the memory of the experience leaves me.

A couple of things about that were noticeable.

First off the actual experience of the OOB state was proof positive to me of our continued existence without a body. (It's only proof to me of course. A personal experience like that does not hold up under the scientific method, it remains anecdotal) I found this very reassuring.

I was struck by the "whatever happens, happens" attitude that I had in that state. I wasn't worried at all.

In all it gave a sense of proportion to the whole deal.

I'm not sure that I'm finding the right words to express what I'm trying to say here.

It amounts I suppose to what others have been saying all along. Be Positive. Attack the problem with all that you can bring to it, but learn to relax and dispense with fear.

Richard Bach summed it up nicely;

"Here is a test to see
   if your mission on earth
   is finished.
If you are alive,
   It's not."

You are alive Rick, so there are still things for you to do and experience. Take hope from that, and keep that hope safe and well fed.

My best to you Rick in this trial. I'm going to assume a positive outcome and that you will regret giving those bikes away.

azguzzirep · « **Reply #93 on:** April 03, 2015, 06:44:54 AM »

Rick,

please check your mssg's.

Tom

radguzzi · « **Reply #94 on:** April 03, 2015, 11:27:14 AM »

Hey Big Guy, Thinking of you often, thoughts and prayers Rick.

Take care,
Rob

56Pan · « **Reply #95 on:** April 03, 2015, 11:48:40 AM »

Quote from: johnr on April 02, 2015, 11:02:39 PM

Not good news Rick.

I have no experience of cancer (yet) but I did go go through a medical event that was life threatening and involved open heart surgery a couple of years ago.

I want to say things here about attitude. I just hope it's appropriate and helpful.

You know, when we are born to this world we all come with a death sentence. It's pre-agreed that this is a temporary adventure, but many seem to go through life ignoring this.

You have a "body failure" and will need to fix it. That's not going to be the best time of your life, but from what has been posted previous it seems that there is no reason to suppose that it won't be successful.

So enough of this 'being tough' for your family. You don't have to do that. Your family (which you are lucky to have) will support you in this time.

However there is little point in worry either, though it is hard not to.

In my case I knew going in that the operation I was going to have has a 6% mortality rate. That doesn't sound to bad, but consider, if a lottery gave you a 6% chance of winning you would surely buy a ticket.

During the op I had one of those Out Of Body experiences you hear about. I think it occurred when my heart was stopped. ( they cool it until it stops beating) In that state I had a close look at what the surgeon was doing to my leg (extracting arteries for the bypasses that were part of the deal) then decided that the surgeons would do what they would do and I would survive or I would not, so I might as well buzz off and do some other stuff. There the memory of the experience leaves me.

A couple of things about that were noticeable.

First off the actual experience of the OOB state was proof positive to me of our continued existence without a body. (It's only proof to me of course. A personal experience like that does not hold up under the scientific method, it remains anecdotal) I found this very reassuring.

I was struck by the "whatever happens, happens" attitude that I had in that state. I wasn't worried at all.

In all it gave a sense of proportion to the whole deal.

I'm not sure that I'm finding the right words to express what I'm trying to say here.

It amounts I suppose to what others have been saying all along. Be Positive. Attack the problem with all that you can bring to it, but learn to relax and dispense with fear.

Richard Bach summed it up nicely;

"Here is a test to see
   if your mission on earth
   is finished.
If you are alive,
   It's not."

You are alive Rick, so there are still things for you to do and experience. Take hope from that, and keep that hope safe and well fed.

My best to you Rick in this trial. I'm going to assume a positive outcome and that you will regret giving those bikes away.

:bow Thanks John. That's a keeper. What a fine letter.

Idontwantapickle · « **Reply #96 on:** April 03, 2015, 12:09:52 PM »

Rick,

Thoughts and prayers are with you today for your Dr appt.

Hunter

John Ulrich · « **Reply #97 on:** April 03, 2015, 12:34:05 PM »

Quote from: Idontwantapickle on April 03, 2015, 12:09:52 PM

Rick,
Thoughts and prayers are with you today for your Dr appt.

;-T

steveford · « **Reply #98 on:** April 03, 2015, 12:55:19 PM »

Rick, I just read all of the responses on this thread, and all I can say is good luck with your fight, and my best wishes for a great outcome. What a special group we have here at WG. My thoughts are with you and you family. :'( :'( :'(

vstevens · « **Reply #99 on:** April 03, 2015, 01:10:20 PM »

Sorry to hear that,
Though I've just found Wild Guzzi, the responses I've read to your dilemma indicate its a good place. I'm just a bit younger than you, 54, but have lost many relatives to cancer and other things... I'm the oldest person in my family. Though not a believer (recently I considered Catholicism but chickened out). I do wish you a speedy recovery. And if not, then you are blessed and consoled with a loving family by your side. Best of luck.

moltoguzzi · « **Reply #100 on:** April 03, 2015, 04:05:47 PM »

Very sorry to hear this. Wishing you a fast recovery. My wife had two major cancer surgeries in two years at Sloan Kettering in NYC plus chimo treatments and she's doing fine today. I know its tough but its not the end, not today.
Don't hold your emotions in check, let them out and share them with your family, they are also hurting and holding strong for you. Keep a positive attitude and control your negative thoughts as much as you can. wishing you all the best and God Bless you.

radan2 · « **Reply #101 on:** April 04, 2015, 02:04:16 AM »

Rick, prayers for you! Keep the good thoughts, and let us know how you are getting on.

(I'm sorry I don't check farther down the board when I come here, as I missed this until now.)

Offcamber1 · « **Reply #102 on:** April 04, 2015, 11:45:04 AM »

Quote from: bigbikerrick on April 01, 2015, 12:58:29 PM

I am feeling kinda "lost" right now, this has thrown me for a "loop" I must admit.I am trying to be strong in the presence of my wife, and Son, but its tough.
Rick.

Rick,

Lost among the great advice here, to which I can add little of value, was this whimsical little joke in your first post. Key to the upcoming battle will be to maintain your sense of humor; this is a fine start.

I don't drop in here too often anymore, but I will try and monitor this situation...and offer prayers for you and your family.

Chin up,

Kip

Muzz · « **Reply #103 on:** April 04, 2015, 05:44:57 PM »

From the backside of the planet, prayers and best wishes sent northwards to you and your family. it's a tough hand you have been dealt but you know you have a worldwide family backing you to the hilt.

Shorty · « **Reply #104 on:** April 04, 2015, 09:58:13 PM »

So sorry to hear your bad news. Plenty of prayer offers and good advice here. ;-T My best advice, get every old church lady and child you know on your prayer warrior team. Good things happen when grandmas and babies pray for you. :) Be tough and keep your sword and boots next to the bed. Keep us informed.

bigbikerrick · « **Reply #105 on:** April 05, 2015, 12:13:27 AM »

Update On Doctors Appt.

Hello Folks, First let me say thank you,to everyone for the kind words, excellent advice, prayers, support, and love sent my way. I have read all the posts to my wife and son,more than once, and It has been an emotional journey.You folks are the best , and have helped me immensely already. I saw My Oncologist yesterday, I drove 130 miles from my home in Douglas, to Green Valley for the consult. The doc. is the same age as me 57, went to med school at the University of AZ in Tucson, and did internships at the cancer center there. He is a slim African American man, soft spoken, with a grey beard, and a great demeanor. He took 2 hours going over treatment options with my wife and I, was very patient, and thorough. basically he stated there are 2 treatment routes, one is called "Induction" where they do chemo for a few weeks to shrink the tumor which he stated is quite large, about 9 cm by 4.5 cm by 4 cm. then after that they would do radiation along with more chemo for 3-4 weeks. The second way is called "deffinitive care" this involves chemo and radiation simultaneously for at least 6 weeks, then its done, unless the ENT Doc . then wants to cut something out, or "resect" some remnants, if needed.
I need to see another Dr. this next week, in the same practice, he is the Radiation Oncolgist, that Dr. will be the one deciding which course of treatment is better for me. But the Oncologist thinks it will be the induction one, due to the size of my tumor.
He told me I would need a tube placed into my stomach for feeding, as my throat will be very painful, and hard to swallow due to the radiation, and I would become undernourished.
I would also need a "port" surgically placed under my skin in my upper chest, where they would administer the chemo drugs.
On a more happy note, Guys....
When I left the Drs. office I grabbed one of his cards on the way out, on the back,it has an area titled "about the Doctor" it states he has 5 children, his 3 oldest daughters are in college, He states" I love riding motorcycles,but my wife has made me promise not to ride, until my youngest daughter is out of high school" " I read all Jack Reacher, and Mitch Rapp novels. I appreciate our military, and Believe I am blessed to live in America.
"My patients might be surprised to learn I have a G.I. Joe collection that I set up, and play with my daughters"
" I want a cherry red Corvette!"

What do you all think?
Rick.

atavar · « **Reply #106 on:** April 05, 2015, 12:34:42 AM »

The last scenario sounds exactly like what my sister lived through (Mayo).. as I said before the process was quite unpleasant but she is now 100% cancer free. It is possible.
All I can do is offer my encouragement, prayers and wishes. Hang in there!
Do investigate support groups and agencies. There is financial aid out there to help with travel and incidental expenses.

atavar · « **Reply #107 on:** April 05, 2015, 12:41:22 AM »

Oh yeah, do not try and be so tough and manly. There are some great pain meds available and they will likely not be stingy with them through this process for you. Let them know when you hurt. I am not a doctor but i would suggest you accept all the morphine etc. you can talk them out of and deal with the withdrawal after the healing process if needed. Your oncologist will give you much better advice on this topic than I can.

balvenie · « **Reply #108 on:** April 05, 2015, 03:53:43 AM »

Sounds as though you like your doc. That's a good thing. Good for your morale.

Nic in Western NYS · « **Reply #109 on:** April 05, 2015, 06:49:20 AM »

Quote from: balvenie on April 05, 2015, 03:53:43 AM

Sounds as though you like your doc. That's a good thing. Good for your morale.

Thanks for the update. It's great that your doc and you clicked. Maybe you can convince him to move up his timetable and get on 2 wheels before long! Glad you got a plan of action that seems reasonable and a physician you like and trust to guide, treat, and advise. All the best and keep the shiny side up!

Bill Hagan · « **Reply #110 on:** April 05, 2015, 07:06:55 AM »

Very pleased for you on all counts.

Your doc sounds like a first-class fellow.

Best to you and your family.

Bill & Kathi Hagan

smdl · « **Reply #111 on:** April 05, 2015, 07:52:21 AM »

Quote from: bigbikerrick on April 05, 2015, 12:13:27 AM

On a more happy note, Guys....
When I left the Drs. office I grabbed one of his cards on the way out, on the back,it has an area titled "about the Doctor" it states he has 5 children, his 3 oldest daughters are in college, He states" I love riding motorcycles,but my wife has made me promise not to ride, until my youngest daughter is out of high school" " I read all Jack Reacher, and Mitch Rapp novels. I appreciate our military, and Believe I am blessed to live in America.
"My patients might be surprised to learn I have a G.I. Joe collection that I set up, and play with my daughters"
" I want a cherry red Corvette!"

What do you all think?
Rick.

Sounds like a pretty cool guy, and one that you can likely form a personal connection with, as a result of shared interests. That counts for a lot, in my opinion.

Our thoughts are with you, as you progress through this journey, Rick.

Shaun

mikebui · « **Reply #112 on:** April 05, 2015, 12:48:39 PM »

Jesus, I trust in You.

johnr · « **Reply #113 on:** April 06, 2015, 12:18:50 AM »

Quote from: 56Pan on April 03, 2015, 11:48:40 AM

:bow Thanks John. That's a keeper. What a fine letter.

That's both validating and reassuring 56Pan. I was a little concerned. Thanks

dan_s · « **Reply #114 on:** April 06, 2015, 05:53:30 AM »

Consult also with a head and neck ENT specialist. Best health.

Tony/CT · « **Reply #115 on:** April 06, 2015, 06:36:54 AM »

Rick, just a little note to let you know I am thinking about you here in Connecticut and hope you are doing OK today.

myway · « **Reply #116 on:** April 06, 2015, 11:46:55 AM »

Prayers for wisdom strength an healing for you an all here, I am humbled. Dan

twhitaker · « **Reply #117 on:** April 06, 2015, 01:48:00 PM »

Quote

"My patients might be surprised to learn I have a G.I. Joe collection that I set up, and play with my daughters"
" I want a cherry red Corvette!"

You might get him a GI Joe sized Vette. ;-T

bigbikerrick · « **Reply #118 on:** April 06, 2015, 04:06:12 PM »

Thanks Guys for the kind words, encouragement, and support. The idea to get the Dr. a GI Joe Sized Vette is awesome ! Even If I have to find a "Barbie" Corvette" ( isnt barbie the same size as GI Joe?) and cover the pink plastic, with Red paint, I think I can do it. I was quite the plastic model car builder when I was a kid!
I am waiting to be called for my appointment with the Radiation Oncologist, hopefully this week, The CTs show that the tumor encases the right carotid sheath, on my neck, and is getting a bit uncomfortable, depending on my head position. I think after I see that doctor, things will start happening pretty fast.
to the gentleman that suggested a second opinion from an ENT specialist, The Doctor I went to that did the biopsy and diagnosed the cancer, is an ENT/Surgeon. He is the guy that referred me to the oncology group. ( Arizona Oncology)
I will keep you guys posted, on how things go.
" BIG HUGS"
Rick.

lucydad · « **Reply #119 on:** April 06, 2015, 07:28:25 PM »

Rick,

I am praying for you many times a day. Know you are in the light.

News:

Author Topic: Ive Got Cancer (Read 84794 times)

56Pan

radan2

Offcamber1

Bill Hagan

mikebui

lucydad