Dear family,
I apologize for the seemingly impersonal nature of e-mail, but it is so efficient that I hope you will forgive the nature of the communication and focus on the message.
A few weeks ago, I found a mass in my right armpit. I had it examined and then had an MRI followed by CT scans of the chest and abdomen. I was then referred to the Huntsman Cancer Institute here in Salt Lake. This past Wednesday (2 days ago) I had a biopsy done. The preliminary findings are that I have a cancer called sarcoma. It is a relatively large mass, measuring 13 x 12 x 6 centimeters, roughly the size of my open hand and a little thicker. The final pathology report will differentiate the type of sarcoma and dictate the treatment plan. Patti and I meet with the oncology team on Monday to learn what plan of treatment they are going to prescribe. As of now, they have indicated that I'll start chemo-therapy this next week and then in about 6 weeks another scan will be done to determine if the size of the tumor has shrunk. Due to it's size now, they want it to shrink before they try to remove it. Currently, it abuts up against nerves and blood vessels complicating any surgical intervention.
Sarcoma is relatively rare in adults, accounting for on 1% of all adult cancers. Prognosis is variable and depends on who you talk to. My surgeon said survival at five years is about 60 to 65%.
My children and siblings are holding a family fast this coming Sunday. If you'd like to participate, I'd be honored.
Additionally, my sweetheart Patti just had her gallbladder out the day before my MRI and CT scans were done last week. She is trying to recover from her surgery and now is dealing with the stress of this. Please, remember her in your prayers too.
Now, I realize that I don't have everyone's e-mail addresses, so please forward this on to whomever you think needs to know. We are not keeping this secret. We need all of your prayers.
All my love,
Jim

Fast for Jim this Sunday!

We were saddened today by the news of Jim's cancer.  (Hopefully you all have heard by now.)  But, we know that all things are in the hands of our Heavenly Father who loves us, and that he blesses us according to our faith.  We would like to join our faith together as a family in behalf of Jim by having a FAST this Sunday, Feb 24.  In the meantime, please keep him and his family in your prayers.  Perhaps, attend or call your local temple and have his name added to the prayer roll.  I remember when Aiden was in the newborn ICU for so long.  We received so many phone calls, letters and cards telling us that we were being prayed for, or that his name was in the temple.  I think he had his name in temples across the country.  It's hard to describe, but we really could feel the sustaining power of those prayers.  They really do work, and I feel like Aiden is a miracle to prove it.  Every once in a while I wonder what may have happened if Dad would have told us all sooner about his cancer.  What would have happened if we'd had a chance to fast and pray for him? Anyway, I think I speak for us all when I say that we love you Jim, and we will be fasting and praying for you, and anything else you may need us to do.  Hang in there and keep the faith! 

love, Susan

I'm 4-months old today!

We cannot believe it but our little Davey is four months old today!  He's such a sweet little guy.  He loves to smile (as you can see!) and laugh.  He's getting pretty good at sitting up and grabbing onto things.  Davey talks a lot and has discovered his feet.  He's a big boy!  Next week is his 4-month visit so I'll let you know how big he is then.  Love to all, The Roz's

YAY!!!

Mrs. Pierce has Arrived! Mason and I got married today! I am so glad to be his wife. It is about time!