The following e-mail was sent to me by Jim Pettit and Jim has given his permission to share it with classmates. Jim can be contacted at jim@jpengraving.com Ellen
Date:
To: Friends and Business Associates:
From:
Subject: Health Update
Dear Friends and Business Associates:
I have had 6 month check-ups for my previous bout with prostrate cancer for the last five years.
About 18 month ago a small spot was found on my spine as a result of the prostrate cancer spreading. It was pinpointed and through radiation, it was treated and I was given a clean bill of health. I have learned that once you have a cancer, it can and it often times comes back, thus the purpose of this health update.
I was scheduled the later part of November 2009 for my 6 month check-up only to find out my prostrate reading had jumped considerable from the previous six months. Both my regular doctor and my urologist thought I had possibly had an infection so treated their suspicions with Cipro for 30 days. After the 30 days of the antibiotic, I again had a blood test to find out my prostrate readings had doubled again. Upon reviewing the findings with my urologist on Jan 12, I was advised he was along with my regular doctor, referring me to a specialist on such issues, a doctor of hematology and oncology. In checking out the referral with others in the medical community, he is most respected in his knowledge and application of the latest findings in chemical treatment, chemotherapy.
I underwent a complete body scan last Monday, Jan 18th along with a CT scan to pinpoint the issues. The findings were that I have numerous spots on the bone from my waist up. As of today, I am getting an infusion of Zometa, a drug to make the bone become harder and resistance to the prostrate cancer which it is now feeding on the bone. In addition, I will begin chemotherapy on Thursday, Feb. 4th for 12 sessions. A session is getting chemo on day one and then again in 3 weeks. This equates to 36 weeks of treatment. I have a battle before me and I have made up my mind to fight like hell to beat this cancer again.
I am headed to FL tomorrow for 6 days to attend a board meeting of our condo association on Friday and our annual meeting and election of board members for the next 2 years. I am in high hopes of being re-elected for another 2 years. I feel my performance and contributions to our association over my last 8 years as a board member will be supported by the owners vote.
I will keep you posted as I progress down the road to recovery.
Your thoughts and prayers would be most appreciated!
Jim
jim,
you are in our thoughts and our prayers. remember attitude is 80% of beating cancer.
Hi Jim…
I’m sorry to hear that you have been ill. Keep up the good fight. One day soon there will be a complete cure for that enemy, cancer.
Actually, I did hear recently about a huge breakthrough.
Where are you in FL? We are in Placida. Just about to go back up North to Kendallville.
My best to you and your family. ss