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