Stuff happens

[72cudamaan]

I have received a couple of inquiries from fellow C.C.-Com members lately so I've decided to open up. I
have been waiting for the right time to tell you guys as quite a few of you have become like extended family to me. In
In the end March I received a phone call from my endocrinologist that my most recent blood test showed elevated liver
enzymes. They wanted me to come in for a new blood draw. So I went in for the draw and the very next day they called me back saying the new results were showing my enzymes were 10 times the normal limit. An ultra sound was ordered for the following day. The results were inconclusive. Time for a C T scan. 2 days later I had the scan. Only took a day for the results (scary how fast things are moving isn't it).
The doc now wants me to see a specialist. So an appointment was made for mid July. I told the clerk that I thought my Doc was hoping for something a little sooner. The clerk goes to see the Doc and 5 minutes later comes back and tells me that an appointment has been made for tomorrow morning. Now I'm getting nervous. By this time my body has started gaining weight in the form of water. I had no idea what was going on. Next morning I see the specialist, talk for about an hour and she wants me to have a biopsy. Had to wait a few days for this. The following Wednesday I go in for the biopsy and all goes well till Friday morning. The
Doc calls me and tells me that I have liver cancer.  The doctor office had already made an appointment for early the following week. So
I'm naturally a wreck for a few days letting my mind just wander wondering how bad this is. I go in to see the oncologist the following week and he just piles it on even higher. Turns out that the cancer that I have is somewhat rare, they can't find the primary location,and
the cancer is treatable but not curable.The prognosis is 2 months to 2 years. There's more to the story that I may add but this covers alot. I just needed to let you guys and gals know what's up. I am in good spirits most days, but there are times when I just shut down and go off to be by myself. I didn't realize how therapeutic it was to just read posts from you guys about whatever is going on daily.
As I finish this post I ask that everyone offer a prayer to Owen (Burdar's little boy) as he needs it more than I. Thanks for listening and letting me get this off my chest.

[MEK-Dangerfield]

Andy,

  If it's treatable, maybe next week or next month they will have a cure. You never know. I was impressed when I saw you at Carlisle, because I don't know if I would be able to handle the situation so well.

Is there any chance of you making it on to a liver donor's list?

[blown motor]

Asking for prayers for Owen in light of your own situation makes a clear statement as to the kind of person you are. I'll say a few for you also. Thanks for letting your C-C family know.

[brads70]

We are here for you buddy!  Call or email if you need to talk!

[72cudamaan]

Andy,

  If it's treatable, maybe next week or next month they will have a cure. You never know. I was impressed when I saw you at Carlisle, because I don't know if I would be able to handle the situation so well.

Is there any chance of you making it on to a liver donor's list?

Mike, unfortunately no. Because the primary location cannot be determined they won't take a chance on giving
me a new liver. The risk of the cancer cells attacking the new liver is high. And, my liver has many tumors in it so removing them or radiating them is not an option either. I have talked to 3 different specialists and they all concur.

[72cudamaan]

Asking for prayers for Owen in light of your own situation makes a clear statement as to the kind of person you are. I'll say a few for you also. Thanks for letting your C-C family know.

Blown Motor, Thank you for that. I feel that my situation sucks, but Owen's life was just starting. I cried more when I read
about him then when I got my diagnosis. I want to see my kids prosper as any Father would, but that little fella isn't even getting
 a chance. Darren posted a video on Moparts that shows how special he and Owen are. 

[72cudamaan]

And to all that are wondering, I am optimistic that a cure will be found. Even my wife is saying 7 more years.   

[spamtank]

Andy,

As Mike said, I hope for a timely cure, or a longer, more effective treatment for you. 

You had a great outlook at the show.  I know working on your car will help you carry on the good fight.

I'll keep Owen, you, and your families in my thoughts and prayers.

[dutch]

we `ll be here for you if you need anything 


are you getting plenty help slappin`that ole purple hotrod back together?   

[1ownr]

Andy - you are the kind of guy who does things for others when no one is watching.

Charlie & I look forward to seeing you again at Carlisle, and no getting out of it.

judy & Charlie

[Cuda Cody]

Each year, month, week and day there is a new development that helps fight cancers.  Don't ever give up and keep looking forward to each new day while living this one to the fullest.   Tomorrow might be the day they find a new cure.  Hang in there.

[GranCuda1970]

I read a article that sounded promising about a drug that starts blocking the T-cell receptors in the cancer cell causing the cell to die off and not link into tumors. Hopefully this research bears fruit. 

[cuda]

I'm praying for the best outcome for you and sending positive vibes 

[BIGSHCLUNK]

We are here for you buddy!  Call or email if you need to talk!

As I've said in another thread, I'm right across the pond! Maybe a Cuda assy party one weekend...............

[CUDA JAS]

Wow so sorry to hear this.

Try to stay positive, you just never know what may happen.

I am not a praying man, but I wish you the best and both you and Owen will be in my thoughts.

Stay strong man!!!

Jason