BluesDawg

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.

Timtruro

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.

I-Like-To-Bike

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

Kurt Erlenbach

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?

Kurt Erlenbach

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.

jppe

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.

stapfam

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.

Louis

"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.

PaulH

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

spoke50

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

Longfemur

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

overthere

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

SaiKaiTai

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!

maddmaxx 

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.

crtreedude 

Attack it like you would a hill.

sojourn

You'll WIN this one BluesDawg!

Bill Kapaun

Double Ditto!
Stay tough!

rideon7

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

solveg

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!

Artkansas 

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

Bud Bent

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.

Tom Bombadil

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.

Miguelangel

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!!!

swan652

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.

LynnH

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