Fifty Plus (50+) - The biggest challenge of my life

A couple of weeks ago I was in pretty good shape, preparing for a week-long bike tour, riding road and MTB rides regularly, working more hours than I like, raising a family and leading a small bicycle club.

Today I am sitting in a hospital bed with a tracheotomy tube in my throat, preparing for a gruelling series of radiation and chemotherapy sessions and fighting for my life.

I've been having trouble swallowing for a few months. It has seemed like a variation in my chronic problems with allergies, sinus cogestion, drainage and hoarseness. What it turned out to be is a likely malignant tumor in my throat.

I went for an ENT exam 2 weeks ago and he saw the tumor and sent me to specialists in Augusta. They looked, decided it was probably cancer and set up a biopsy the Monday after my week-long bike ride (BRAG). Starting the biopsy they determined my throat was too swollen and I might choke during upcoming radiation therapy, so they did a tracheotomy. Now I'll be in the hospital the rest of the week and coming back soon for treatment, once the tests are analyzed and a definite treatment plan is prescribed.

I'm in for the fight of my life. A fight for my life. The outcome is uncertain. The best thngs I have going for me are great doctors, a loving family and supportive friends. Also, I'm a tough sonofabich and I'm determined to ride my bikes for many more years to come.

You are a tough one Blues, you will come through with flying colors. Family, friends and your positive outlook will see you through, and I will add a couple of prayers for good measure. Keep that "can do" attitude and keep posting when you can. You will be back.

Today I am sitting in a hospital bed with a tracheotomy tube in my throat, preparing for a gruelling series of radiation and chemotherapy sessions and fighting for my life.

Keep on fighting. My mother in law is a 40 year survivor. It will be a tough fight but you can do it.

Oh man, BD, that is terrible news. I absolutely wish you the very best. There is nothing in the world that rivals hearing "cancer" and "you" in the same sentence. It is essential that you keep everyone here informed about what goes on, OK?

Here's one ting to think about. Treatment plans are based on the "average" person, who likely is not in nearly as good shape as you. Tell them to turn the knob up to 11. It's a whole lot better to be healthy before you get sick than to be sickly when you get sick.

Gee whiz BluesDawg. That is a really dramatic and quick turn of events there ......Man I hate to hear that.

Unfortunately for the C-but it just doesn't know how a tough a fellow it has taken up residence in. I'm thinking all these hills you've climbed and trails you've blazed have just been in preparation for overcoming this thing. You're family plus the locals there have always seemed really supportive and I think you can also count on your extended family here at 50+.

It's got to be scary as heck but just know we're here for you. I'm only few hours drive away if there is ANYTHING I can do.

My father died of Cancer in 76. It is the one word that worried me- but My turn came. Luckily in the intervening years- a lot of research and knowledge has gone into cancer. Diagnosing quicker has led to better treatments and the better treatment has led to cures. In fact- there is a better chance of you having a full recovery and the odds on that recovery are going up week by week.

The Big "C" is about the most frightening thing that can happen to anyone. It is pointless saying "Stop Worrying" but that is the best thing you can do. I did my fair share of worrying when I was diagnosed- but as My consultant said- Worry all you like but that will not help the Cure.

And a big plus in your favour---- The fitness you have will help you get through.

Get well soon- And start biking as soon as you can- Helps on the recovery stakes.

"Also, I'm a tough sonofabich and I'm determined to ride my bikes for many more years to come."

You have the advantage with that attitude, BD, you have everything it takes to win. My thoughts are with you.

Keep us informed.

A
The best thngs I have going for me are great doctors, a loving family and supportive friends. Also, I'm a tough sonofabich and I'm determined to ride my bikes for many more years to come.

Dawg:

My Mom had the same situation, other than the bikes, and she outlived that tumor by many years. One unexpected side effect of her experience with cancer was that she decided to take up writing again. I hope that you, like her, not only prevail, but take advantage of the situation to explore some new possibilities.

Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

Paul

Prayers.... Many prayers. My mother-in-law is having her first round of chemo this week, but she is not in near the shape you are in. Keep up that good attitude and you'll beat it, I'm sure.

God bless

I wish you strength and positive thoughts in facing this challenge.

Cancer hits too many of us. Lots of prayers and thoughts your way -

There a few here who have earned my admiration and respect.
You, 'Dawg, are way up on that list.
I am with you, shoulder to virtual shoulder, in your fight.
Kick its ass, dude!

I know you are a fighter Dawg. Attitude and Grit are your best weapons to bring to the table. You were in the best shape of your life just a short while ago and that's a powerful friend also. Let us know how it's going, we will do our part with good thoughts.

Attack it like you would a hill.

You'll WIN this one BluesDawg!

I wish you strength and positive thoughts in facing this challenge.

Double Ditto!
Stay tough!

Hang in there, BD! Fight the good fight! We're thinking of you.

OH MAN! That's an unbelievable turn of events! I am so sorry. Are you doing radiation and chemo at the same time? Do you get to go home soon?

Edit: I reread the post and saw that you get to go home in a week. Fight. Fight!

Fight the fight, Dawg. We'll be in your corner.

Oh dang. Know that your fitness level will serve you well when it comes to medical procedures. You'll be way ahead of the curve. Your toughness is sure to help, too.

I appreciated all the support I got from here during my recent cancer battle. We're all pulling for you too, and ready to help any way we can. Please keep us in the loop, as best you can.

I am stunned!

I know the impact of the diagnosis because until yesterday, my wife was thought to have cancer. Six weeks ago she had a positive test, with several common symptoms. We've been dealing with this since then, through test after test. Until yesterday when they found that the source of the positive tests were non-malignant polyps. It was quite stressful to say the least.

I am so sorry to read about your situation. I have confidence that you will pull through and spit in its eye.

lance in his firt book explained chemo this way: (I'm not quoting)
Its like a race between who survives first... the cancer or your body... and we know who won...
I have met many survivors... just like crtreedude says: attack it like a hill...its your race and science is on your side!!!
I'm sure you will get up there first... and you'll tell us all about it in some time to come!!!
Keep the spirits and updates..i know the folks here will do their best to keep you in their thoughts...
Now put on your best sidis!!! and climb that hill!!! COURAGE!!!

Jeezus...I about fell out of my chair when I read that BD. My prayers are with you and as many have already said, your conditioning will give you an advantage in this fight. Best of luck and my prayers are with you.

My thoughts are with you also, and kick ass big time - don't even bother with taking names!

My brother your tenacity, loving family, close friends and the many friends you have here on this forum will give you the strength and support you need to prevail. All the best to you and your family. You will be remembered in many prayers to come. Lp

BD,

I'll add my support as well. Everything that needs to be said has been said -- you are in for a fight, but you will give 'em hell and come out a winner. That's a given. You're one of the folks I admire most on this forum, and I'll be pulling for you and waiting for further posts on your road to victory. Go get 'em!

We are both cancer survivors.
You've got the right attitude . . .
Pedal on TWOgether!
Rudy and Kay/zonatandem

My sister has beaten cancer twice - both times were supposed to kill her, and she should have been dead 5 years ago.

She called me last week to tell me that her CA-125 test was NORMAL - that test is for her type of cancer.

It can be beat

And you will beat it.

All the more reason for those annual checkups.

My prayers are with you.

Keep us informed.

Also, I'm a tough sonofabich and I'm determined to ride my bikes for many more years to come.

hang tough, kick *** and stay positive. my prayers will be with you

Thoughts and prayers to you! Keep fighting!

Having struggled through cancer 2 years ago all I can say is my prayers are with you, always stay positive, no matter what and trust your doctors. Cancer is no longer the death sentence it used to be. A good friend of mine is now 4 years post throat cancer and doing really well. Riding centuries just about every month. This is but an annoying, minor set back. Take the time to catch up on reading and TV watching and enjoy the down time.

I remember going in for a test for one problem and hearing the word "cancer". It didn't register until I actually went in for surgery a month later. I had still hoped they were wrong. Me? Cancer? What? What got me through it all is being really open with my friends and family. Their support was a gift from God. Let everyone know and accept all that is offered.

Take care. And if you have not read Lance's book, get it and read it. Will help with the positive thinking!

Good luck BD. I don't remember to pray very often, but, I will today. You have some big time intervals ahead but your fitness base is solid, you will kick ***.

So sorry to hear this BD. Best of luck to you and prayers are something I do as well. If online families are anything, you know you have one here.

I wish you a lot of luck BD and if I was a betting man, I would bet you'll make it through this dilemma. They have gotten so much technology and have come such a long way in treating cancer, you'll make it. It's always a shock to hear you got the big C, but there are more people beating it now, than ever before. Good luck and I know you'll be riding that new bike, before you know it.

Jeez. What terrible news. If there is anything we can do let us know.

I just pulled some blues off the server in your honor..."Help me through the Day" by Curtis Salgado. Might not be strong enough medicine, though. Maybe I'll have to get into a little Lightnin' Hopkins.

I'd send you the clips but apparently the forum doen't allow mp3 uploads. :rolleyes:

Sorry to hear the news. Your health will make a BIG difference. Prayer sent for a speedy victory.

I'm hoping this is just a minor setback. You're young and strong and a lot of people are pulling for you.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We all wish you a speedy recovery...so we can nag you to "get out and ride"!

Sheesh Dawg. I haven't been around much here for a year or so, but I always enjoyed reading your posts when I was. In my prayers, and I expect to be reading about your BRAG exploits next year. This sucks. Mike

BD: I'll be praying for you! Hang in there and do all that you can to thank positive!

BD, I am absolutely certain with your fighting spirit and good physical condition you will win this battle hands down. You will be in my prayers too.

I don't know you except via this board, but my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Wow! I was stunned when I read your post.

My thoughts and prayers are with you. Keep us informed of your progress.

Along with everyone else, I'll be praying for you, BD.

JUST DO IT!!....Beat this thing, man! Us Southern boys ain't no one to be messin' with....

I'll be praying for you, Dawg.

Hang in there -- I'm looking forward to your ride report from next year's BRAG, and many more after that, I'm sure.

Wow, I'm at a loss for words. Just a couple of days ago you answered my post about pedals, and now this. Glad you came and shared your experience so we can all stand by you through this. You'll be in my prayers.

Blues Dawg, you probably don't know me because I don't post much. But I just want to let you know that over in Foo, we have what's called "Foo Energy". It's giving all of our power and strength to those that need it. You may not believe in it because you probably have never heard of it but there are times when it really really worked.

So I'm sending to you.......

(((FOO ENERGY!!)))

((hugs)) :)

LOL, SBW....

That may just increase his blood pressure.

Blues Dawg, what exactly are they doing to right now while you're in the hospital. Are they still running tests to see what they're dealing with, or are the concerned only about the throat swelling?