Hi Everyone,
First I'm not a writer and don't have an easy way with words. I hope to share this journey and have a way to keep you all updated. In part this is a mechanism to help me express some thoughts and my outlook. To start this blog has been a challenge as I face Cancer and the road ahead towards treatment and healing. In general I consider myself somewhat reserved and I don't want people to treat me different or receive pity/sympathy but I do understand and greatly appreciate everyone's support, concern, care, love, or prayers/thoughts and I wanted to be able to share my battle. I'm blessed to have so many in my corner as I carry on with one of the most significant challenges one may face.
Well this journey began in early Dec 2020 when I had a sore/stiff neck and I noticed a lump on the right side of my neck. I didn't think much of it suspecting that my body was just fighting a bug or infection. My neck muscle soreness went away in a day or two and the lump didn't hurt or appear discolored. I noticed that through the Holiday Season, the lump didn't seem to go down or change. I had a routine medical appointment in mid-January of 2021 and brought it up to my Dr's attention. Had a ultrasound and then was referred to ENT specialist in Lloydminster who then did a needle biopsy which had indicated no malignant cells. In order to get a definitive answer the Dr. then scheduled me for a Head/Neck CT scan and an open biopsy so ultimately on the 9th of March, I was diagnosed with Cancer.
At that moment gravity seemed to increase, time concurrently seemed to both speed up and slow down. In that moment I thought of my family and in my mind I said "okay I have a fight ahead, and I am determined to win!" The drive home was pretty rough for Richelle and I particularly since Richelle's mother was diagnosed with Cancer a couple of months prior and was just starting chemotherapy. We thought 2020 was bad but 2021 was not starting off well at all!
I was then referred to a different specialist (ENT/Oncology) at the University of Alberta in Edmonton to determine type, treatment and so forth. What followed was a visual exam of my sinuses, throat, tongue and a full body PET/SCAN. I had a biopsy done for some suspect tissue seen at the back of my tongue which confirmed specifically Squamous Cell Carcinoma at the base of my tongue which has spread to my lymph nodes on the right side of my neck. I really like this Dr. and have full confidence in him. He is optimistic about overall outcomes and very easy to talk with.
Prior to my diagnosis Cancer has had significant impacts on my life. My mother had a number of cancers and was able to fight and survive living to a great age of 96! I really don't know many of the particulars or even treatments as a lot was not disclosed given the generation and probably a desire so I would not worry but I know there were struggles and strength. I've seen a broad spectrum of outcomes with cancer and understand that it encompasses a variety of issues, treatments and outcomes.
Presently, I am scheduled for surgery in about 3-5 weeks that will be quite extensive where the cancerous tissues will be removed from my neck and back of tongue. It is expected to be about 18 hrs and I am expected to be in hospital for 1-2 weeks. Some reconstruction of my tongue is planned and will involve some skin grafts. Of course I am concerned about scaring, swallowing, voice characteristics and the usual risks with surgery. My treatment afterwards will be dependent on the pathology from the removed tissue however the Dr is fairly certain it will be radiation therapy.
In the interim I have some more test to get done. The trips to from Edmonton (3hrs each way) are at least not through the winter conditions! Fortunately I feel pretty good physically and am taking it day by day, keeping positive, and trying not to dwell on this diagnosis.
We are strong, and we're ready to take this on together. We all feel your support, wishes, thoughts and prayers. I will do my best to keep this updated as much as possible.
Love and best wishes everyone. Carlisle
Carlisle, thinking of you as you fight this thing. Glad you are surrounded by your family and I am sure many others to help support you and them. Sending you positive vibes for a smooth journey and recovery!!
ReplyDeleteVicki Veilleux
Carlisle / Richelle .... We were taken aback when we heard of your diagnosis.... We are here for you just as you were here for me when I was diagnosed with cancer in late 2019..... The struggle is real and there are tons of feelings that tend to go through people's head when they get the news... But remember this we are with you and if you feel the need or desire to reach out we will be there to help out.... Thoughts and prayers are with you, Richelle, and the family... And one last thing.... You got this!
ReplyDeleteCarlisle, Richelle and family,
ReplyDeleteWe are very sadden to hear these news.
Just know that you will be in our thoughts and prayers especially with your upcoming surgery.
F@#k cancer!!
Sending positive energy for a speedy recovery.
You will win this battle with flying colors!!
All the best and thank you for writing a blog, I think it will help you and perhaps maybe someone else.
Sending love,
The Dussaults
Hi Carlisle and Richelle. You will beat this journey. Your young and strong. Lots of love going out to you and your family. My thoughts are with you.
ReplyDeleteThinking of you my friend. You are in my thoughts and prayers for a full recovery
ReplyDeleteHey do you remember that time we were all on a work course in Trenton and we got tickets to Canada's Wonderland? We loaded the van with the guys from Comox and when we got there it was pouring rain, cold and ugly. The parking lot was empty, it was so bad. But it didn't really stop us. And by around 11am the rain stopped and we had the entire park to ourselves. It turned out to be a 10/10 memorable kind of day.
ReplyDeleteMy obvious point is this: What was the name of the ride we went on back-to-back like a dozen times? We hung from the rails in seats. Great ride. Anyways, I can't remember the name and it's been bugging me for years.
Lots of love to you guys.
Mike B
Thanks Mike!!! If I recall correctly I think it was called Flight Deck. I still have my sweatshirt that I bought on that trip and its well worn and one my favourites still!! Cheers and Take Care!
DeleteWe're rooting for a smooth ride through to success, Carlisle & Richelle! You got this!! So sorry you have to deal with this, though! But you're right - the plus side: its not winter!
ReplyDeleteAll of our love,
The whole MacGregor family 💕
Carlisle my friend this is a tough thing to read but I have total faith in you and your strength. I have worked with you and I know when you put your mind to something it gets done. Sending love, hugs and lots of healing thoughts to you, Richelle and the kids. You got this!
ReplyDeleteSending good vibes your way as you guys are gearing for the battle. I am sure you guys will come out stronger on the other end and have teams of folks that will support, count me in.
ReplyDeletePraying for you Mason! My grandma fought cancer and won as well, praying for the right treatments and strength as you fight this!
ReplyDeleteCarlisle all of my prayers for you and the family. It will be a tough road but you have caught it early and by the sounds of it you are receiving excellent care. They have come a long way with treatment and I know you will be ok.
ReplyDelete