on August 25th, 2017 by Rebeccca
Galen has been diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer in the abdomen. The first oncologist that we saw recommended that no treatment be pursued, as the treatment would be too hard on him and not extend his life enough to make up for the extra pain. We are getting a second opinion with another oncologist next Tuesday and will be deciding what to do.
In the meantime, the palliative care team has done amazing things with their magical drugs and he is almost comfortable for the first time in over a month. He is currently at RUH, probably coming home to Rosthern next week.
This is all a shock to us, as we knew nothing until the biopsy results from his hernia operation were told to us on July 28. We are trying to take things day by day.
I am finding it overwhelming to try and keep our friends and family informed as to what is happening, so I have started this blog to provide updates.
We appreciate all the love and concern from our friends, but will probably not be able to respond to your comments or emails. I just want you to know that we will read them!
Love, Rebecca
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Galen
9 Responses to “Galen’s Diagnosis”
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August 25th, 2017 at 4:45 pm
Thinking of you with Love and sending prayers and good wishes to you both – Steve and Leigh
August 25th, 2017 at 6:01 pm
Oh my, we are both in shock. After Larry’s treatment today this is the news I am reading. You guys are definitely in our hearts, thoughts and prayers as you walk through this together. We know that Galen has always been a pillar and a very positive person. May the doctors provide the plan of treatment he needs and may you BOTH have the strength to walk beside each other day by day. I remember saying in January that this is going to be a difficult year…we need to hold on tight to each other. Wish we lived closer…….Love You Guys. Larry and Chris
August 25th, 2017 at 9:17 pm
Thanks for this message. This is no doubt a difficult time for both of you. Good to hear that Galen is feeling more comfortable. I hope you will be able to get back to Rosthern soon.
August 25th, 2017 at 10:04 pm
Thank you for sharing; we know that it is hard to say the same overwhelming ‘news’ over and over again. We, like so many of your family and friends, care and want to be supportive but not intrusive. We will say like others: let us know how we can help.
August 25th, 2017 at 10:11 pm
I read some of your earlier posts about the difficult and emotionally hard times you had with care for and just having to watch the decline of your parents. Just ‘WOW!’ That is so heavy, and now having Galen’s diagnosis. I am almost overwhelmed for you. It probably isn’t so comforting to hear but know that my heart hurts for you two…and I will be praying for Gods wisdom in this…
Bless you dear people!!
August 26th, 2017 at 11:28 am
How terrible. My heart goes out to you both. We haven’t been keeping up much but am glad you have considered keeping me updated. It sounds like you are living in Rosthern now. I thought you were still out at the coast.
August 27th, 2017 at 7:26 am
Dear Rebecca,
Thank you for letting us know about Galen. Our hearts and thoughts and prayers are with the two of you. We are thankful to hear that Galen is comfortable now and receiving excellent care. We look forward to his returning home to be with you and his personal comforts. please give him our love, as we do you Rebecca.
Love,
Nancy and Raphael
August 27th, 2017 at 8:31 am
Oh Rebecca, I’m so terribly sorry to hear this news. I just love Galen so much, in many ways he has been a role model and such a trusted advisor to me in the years you both lived here. If there is anything I can offer please know you can count on me. I think of him often as I am building a house on Salt Spring and I often wonder what Galen would do about this or that… Please know I am sending love and endless gratitude to you both… Leanne
August 27th, 2017 at 8:31 am
Dear Galen! Rebecca, via Ann, has notified me of your condition. You impressed me by having more than one marriage, the other between trade and talent. Which happens when art and the skills of a smith forge a lasting bond. Strength and sublimity combined. Uncommonly.
Worst part of illness is debilitating pain. At least that draining aspect is now under control. Shock and disbelief’s suffering is not so easily tamed. You have Rebecca steadfastly at your side, at least that much a mercy.
But not without its own toll. Caring while losing a loved one exacts a price paid for during a long time. Not to be forgot.
We returned the canoe you gave Ann. Now it is drifting down the River of Our Ancestors, heading for reunion’s sweet pleasures. What is left behind has compensation in the memories of a life well lived.
To paraphrase: How can man die better than by facing fearful odds, for the ashes of his Fathers and the acclaim of an artisan’s gods.
You and Rebecca are in my thoughts.
finn