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Piling on.

Advanced Prostate Cancer, David Emerson, PSA, St Peregrine -

Last week was one filled with nothing but crappy news!

First it was my PSA increase on Monday (up to 430). It’s just a number and overall I am more focused on the other aspects of the disease like pain.  While things seemed to be better over last weekend, by Wednesday my back reminded me that even when I feel good, I need to just chill out for awhile. That continues to be a struggle for me, I cannot be idle. I have been taking 4 Advil every 8-10 hours in order to function.

Last week we took one of our favorite books (‘There’s No Place Like Hope’) over to a neighbor who was about to have surgery to remove her colon. Wednesday was the surgery and it turns out things were worse than expected and the cancer had already spread. They scrapped the surgery and now she will start intense chemotherapy. They are younger than us but also have an ‘only’ (single child). I ask that you add them to your prayers and/or thoughts. They have a long, tough road ahead of them but their positive attitude is both infectious and admirable.
To the ‘C’ family, this one’s for you:

Oh great Saint Peregrine, you who have been called “The Mighty” and “The Wonder-Worker” because of the numerous miracles which you have obtained from God for those who have had recourse to you. For so many years you bore in your own flesh this cancerous disease that destroys the very fiber of our being, and who had recourse to the source of all grace when the power of man could do no more. You were favored with the vision of Jesus coming down from His Cross to heal your affliction. Ask of God and Our Lady, the cure of these sick persons whom we entrust to you.

Aided in this way by your powerful intercession, we shall sing to God, now and for all eternity, a song of gratitude for His great goodness and mercy. Amen.

4 Responses to Piling on.

  2. David,

    It is a testament to your amazing fortitude that you are only taking Advil for your pain! I am so sorry about your PSA and, at the same time, so happy to know you and to see how upbeat you remain in the face of this ugly enemy. I am so very sorry about your neighbor and I’m angry that this cancer just takes what it wants and it happens before we can stop it! I’m hoping you have a better PSA next time. xoSherry

  3. And many thanks again to those of us in The Club No One Wants to Belong To. WE can do cancer together and with a little help from our friends. Be well Brother! We have today.

  4. Wow David. You are right that the PSA is only a number but it’s more significant that it is higher while still on hormone therapy. Maybe your cancer is to busy making PSA and not doing anything else :>)

    You are amazing. You do so much in continuing support and offers of hope to many other cancer fighters and your continuing fight for research funding. Glad to call you a friend. Best to you. MP