Time for a Sunday update. I’ve been trying to hold off on posting till I had a more positive. Hoping he would snap back but it’s not that easy I guess.
Let’s keep POSITIVE! He’s getting nutrition! We admit our initial reservations about the feeding tube were wrong. It’s been the only way to keep him hydrated and get fuel into his body. We’ve both said, “Thank god for the feeding tube.” Thursday and Friday were really bad. Everything, including the feeding tube, mashed potatoes, ginger ale, made him sick. The only thing he could keep down was ice chips and a a little water. I started using the peg tube for water and we tried the supplements but it caused more nausea. Kevin keeps his eyes closed most of the time. It’s a mental thing, but it makes him nauseas to watch. The first few days were tough for me as well. Knowing how much it helps him, I’ve gotten past that now. It’s truly saving his life.
Yesterday, he woke up asking for watermelon. He had less nausea and I was able to get 2100 calories in him. The day prior, Friday, only 400 calories. Today, staying steady on the feeding tube and eating watermelon. Hoping to get to 2400 today. It’s important we maintain his weight. He is only down 5 lbs since Wednesday, so that is another positive.
On top of the round the clock feeding attempts, I had print deadline on Friday. So thankful for Frank and Trend to give me a little extra time to finalize Saturday morning. I’m juggling Kevin’s care and I still have to maintain our publications and business. Grateful and blessed we have such great support from our advertisers as well. Every one has offered assistance if needed. Really brings me to my knees and humbled by the outpouring of support from everyone.
Tomorrow will be day 3 of 35 radiation treatments. Monday to Friday for 7 more weeks. Additionally, he has two more chemo treatments scheduled. The next is July 11th then August 1st. If we stay on track with the radiation (♥️🙏🏼♥️💪🏼♥️☘️♥️), final treatment will be August 8th.
Cimoli Strong 
Praying for Kevin, for the cancer to leave his body, for no pain, for uplifting him and you and the kids. I’m here if you need anything! Love you!
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Thank you Heather. I am so appreciative of that. I’m so fortunate to have you and a few neighbors available to give Addison rides or help if needed. Two of the three neighbors I’m close with work in teaching too. The other is in the medical field. The husband and wife right next door, we don’t know very well, but they are both nurses at Emmanuel too. You all will be hearing from me if we need something – I promise! This is a humbling experience and I’ve learned to ask for help, something I don’t usually do!
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Hoping this goes by fast for you Kev. Ready for some red pants, Elaine dancing and more music talk. I need a concert buddy! You both are fantastic!!!! You got this – kick its ass dude.
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You and Steve are so awesome and supportive. You have no idea how you guys have lifted our spirits by checking in on us. Looking forward to more shenanigans soon!
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Please hang in there.I also went through 30 rounds of radiation for breast cancer, less than 2 years ago. I suffered third degree burns and felt like just giving up. I did not give up because I REFUSED to let cancer win. You hang in there and just know it will get better. It does get worse before it gets better, but please know that it will get better. As I am sitting here writing to you, I am sending you energy and strength with the hope that you will continue to FIGHT. My love to you and your family.
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Thank you for your kind words and sending us your energy and strength. Hearing from you gives us hope and something to look forward too. Cancer free! We will stay strong!
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