Well........It's Monday and I've told my story so far about 50 times since I found that I had Testicular Cancer, last Friday. I thought creating a blog could save me a lot of time rather than repeating myself over and over again. It will also end the uncomfortable silence I hear when I answer the question, " What's new Russ? ".
About a month ago I was working with a colleague when I noticed that he was down in the dumps. I asked him what was wrong. He then explained that his son was diagnosed with Testicular Cancer. I immediately picked up the phone (in the middle of our sales call) and made myself a physical exam appointment. At that appointment which was about a month ago, my doctor said he noticed one of my testicles was enlarged. He said he thought it was fine but wanted to get an ultrasound to be safe.
My ultrasound was no bueno! I was immediately scheduled to have blood work done and referred to a Urologist. The Urologist recommended surgery because they believe I have an early stage of a type of Testicular Cancer called Seminoma. This is good news in a way because the other type of Testicular Cancer is very bad news. They will not know for 100 percent fact that it's Seminoma until the mass is removed and sent to a Pathologist. I am now waiting for a surgery date, which will be next week. Also, with the help of my wife, sister Kristy and longtime friend Alicia, I have learned a lot about my condition as well as gained confidence in the Urology department at Mercy. Kristy and Alicia have also given me a referral as well if I become unhappy with these people.
So really that's it. I have told my work and family and let everyone know that this is not a private matter at all. The more people that hear about this, the better. I want everyone to be aware and to have the men in their lives get their balls checked.
I will update page on a regular basis until I am healthy.
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17 comments:
Russ we are praying for you and know that you will be alright! Stay strong and know that it takes alot of courage to talk about this and we appreciate you keeping us updated, We love you and your family and will be here if you need anything at all. The Sommers
Russ-We certainly are sorry to hear about this BUT I know with early detection like has happened to you that all WILL be well. Glad we can check up on you without bugging you too much. Tell Brandi hello and give your kids hugs from us. Hang in there...
~Stan and Marya Davies
Russ... So glad you were able to catch it early. We're confident you will win this battle-- your actions have already put you well on the way. In addition to our support and prayers--we're more than happy to help in any way, don't hesitate to ask for any help. We're here for you anytime.
Dave & Keely
Hey Russ ~ I'm truly sorry to hear about this unfortunate situation you, Brandi and the kids have to experience. Having said that, you guys are not alone! We (your extended family & friends) are here for you guys every step of the way! If you need ANYTHING, please let me know ~ I'm here for you all day or night. I know you’re a fighter so I know you will win this battle and be okay. I love you guys! ~ Tante
you are in my prayers everyday, and i know that everything is going to turn out fine. you are a very strong person and i think it's awesome that you are putting the message out there for all guys to get checked, no matter how young you are. stay strong, love you. kristy:)
Hi Russ, we have not met but I am close friends with people that care about you a great deal, and that makes you a friend of mine! I read your blog and I commend your strength. Cancer is something that most of us will unfortunately face in our lives and I hope to share in your optimism and personal motivation. I have learned so much from you in just the short time it took me to read your blog, and I will keep you in my thoughts. Best wishes in the near and distant future! Just remember that good things happen to good people, and outlook on life has tremendous power over outcome in life!
Kalynn
Russ and Brandi, Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. We know you will beat this by your persistence in getting everything done from the minute you got the diagnosis. If there is anything we can do, please just say the word. Thank you for starting your blog!! Barbara and Jon Primm
Russ.........Your dad just called me last night to let me know about your situation. We were out of town this past weekend. You are a determined and strong young man and I am certain you will overcome this. Stay positive!! You are in our prayers as is Brandi and the children. If there is anything we can do please let us know......we are familia!! I think I'll make an appointment to have my balls checked!
Rudy
Hi Russ,
Thank you so much for letting us know about what's happening with you and for creating this blog - what a great idea! Our thoughts are with you, and if there's anything we can do to help (playdate for the kids, etc.) please let us know. Thanks for the push to get to the doctor - that tends to always go to the bottom of my list, but I called for an appointment today! We are thinking of you and send our best wishes for a speedy recovery!
Marian and David Simmons (Rachel's mom and dad)
Russ, I'm so glad you made that call to the doc.
You will get through this i know it !! You are strong in both mind and body. Stay positive. You are in my everyday thoughts and i will be praying for your speedy recovery.
Michelle wants me to tell you that she will be praying for you and if there is anything at all that we can do for you and Brandi to let us know.
Stay strong Russ & Brandi. You will get through this.
George & Michelle
Hi Russ:
I was very socked to hear about you when I called your Dad on Monday night. I have been reading your comments every day, and have been telling Uncle Manuel about your health. Everyone always gives him a hard time about doctors because he feels he is fine, so please continue to keep us informed. You are in my prays every night, and I know you will lick this. I know some people will think that what I have to say may be cruel, but what you and I have is the best type of cancer to have and cure. Keep a good attitude (which sounds like you have already), and soon you will be looking back at these days. This is just a short detour with your wonderful life. If we can do anything for you and your family, we are here for family. Tell Haley I want cookies from her. I am not a computer person, so I had to ask your Dad how to send a note which he told me today, so that is why it took me a while.
Love you All,
Aunt Donna
Donna
Hey there Russ. I just recieved the word from my dad and read your posts. After sending this message I am making Nacho an appointment immediately! You are such a wonderful person to get this message out! My family and I think the world of you and your family. If you need ANYTHING let us know!!! You are all in my positive thoughts and prayers. Renee
Hi again Russ and Brandi. Russ, I must say that you sound like you are in very good spirits and what you are doing with your journal to keep us informed is fantastic. I give you a lot of pats on the back. I don't think you realize how much you have already helped many family and friends with what you are doing. Thanks again and keep up the good attitude.
Aunt Donna
All,
Thank you for these messages. When this is all done, I'm going to print every page of this blog and all comments. It will be one of my most prized possessions and you will all be a part of it.
Thanks.
Russ and Brandi you are in my prayers tonight and tomorrow. I know you will make it through this short detour, and tomorrow at this time it will be all over. It will be in the past, and you can continue to let others know how it was really a breeze. We love you and your wonderful family. See you back with the family soon.
Aunt Donna
Russ:
Glad to hear you are out of surgery and feeling good. Rest up tonight, and keep up the great information you give us.
Will continue to pray for you.
Aunt Donna
Russ,
Aus,Nicole and myself keep you in our prayers daily.We know that all will be well.
You already have a leg up,with your positive can do attitude & strong mind and will power.
You have the love and support of the family and I know you will be fine. If you need anything at all,don't hesitate to say so.
I think it's time for sushi again,the fish is good for you!
Think well and be well...
Love, Dave, Aus and Nicole
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