Howdy,
To steal a line from Elton John, “The Bitch is Back!”
Yes, I am very sorry to report that my cancer has once again has shown its’ ugly face.
A week ago, I had a PT/CT scan and got the disturbing news: “We saw something we don’t like”.
It’s a refrain you never get used to.
The scans showed multiple growths in the abdomen that were not present 3 months ago. Subsequent tests confirm that my cancer has mutated and is now resistant to my current drug therapy. As I have said so many times before, I have the BEST team of doctors and I am confident they will come up with a new “cancer cocktail”, as surgery is not an option. I know that they are going to do everything possible and you know that I will fight with everything I have. I did not pick this fight with cancer, but it’s a battle I will win.
As a cancer Thriver, I have learned to count the victories, not the setbacks. Last year, I finished the NYC marathon for the second time, and the PMC for the 11th. This year, I hope to complete my 12th PMC, but may need to compete in a different sort of marathon between now and then.
As always, I will draw more strength than you can imagine from the support my friends my original diagnosis, and for that I remain eternally grateful.
Thriving is a mindset in which one is careful to avoid regrets and embrace opportunity at every corner. Yes, cancer is back, and that sucks, but things could be worse: I could have allowed the illness to keep me away from the marathons, the triathlons and the PMC. I could have let the disease change me. Instead, I have, and will continue to do my best, to define what it means to be a cancer Thriver.
I Thirve on,
Paul
Paul,
I am sorry to hear that news.
You beat it before.
You will beat it again.
And you will thrive on!
Rich
Posted by: Rich Moreau | March 04, 2009 at 06:08 PM
Dearest Paul,
I admire your strength and courage.
I love you and will continue to pray, mediate and hope for you to Thrive.
If a trip to the Sierra Nevada could help, you are always welcome!! Beauty abounds here ...
Always your PBP pal,
Kayo
(another cancer Thriver!)
Posted by: kay ogden | March 06, 2009 at 05:10 PM
Hi Paul,
Ralph and I are sorry to hear of your latest news.
Paul, "Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it." - Lou Holtz
You are our inspiration - in all facets of our lives!
Please know that you will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Thrive on! We are with you!
Ralph&Cathy DeCicco (from Rotations)
Posted by: Catherine DeCicco | March 06, 2009 at 08:28 PM
Paul I check back to this blog every so often and I am so sad to see that the cancer is back. I know you will beat it.
Posted by: Kate | March 10, 2009 at 09:08 AM
Paul, I'm sorry to read this news. But I know you are good hands, and that you will continue to live every day to the fullest. We all should do the same. You are an inspiration. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need anything.
Posted by: Matt Purdue | March 11, 2009 at 11:14 AM