Today, the battle begins

Kurt was diagnosed on September 9, 2008 with Stage IV esophageal cancer. A grim diagnosis, for sure, but we have many reasons to be optimistic. Many of the additional problems associated with esophageal cancer are not an issue here, which is good. Kurt has no problem swallowing, so right now, he can get all the nutrition he needs. He is not anemic, his blood cell counts are good, his blood pressure is normal, all other organs are functioning well. Kurt feels good -- he is not much more tired than usual, his appetite is good, and we have been doing pretty normal things. Esophageal cancer is somewhat rare, and even more rare in someone so young, so all the stats and numbers that we are used to hearing are hard to come by and likely not applicable to Kurt's particular situation.

So we are feeling good about his chances. The initial recommendation is a round of chemo for 8 weeks. At this time, he isn't a good candidate for surgery, because the cancer has spread to his liver and lymph nodes. But the doctors haven't ruled it out if we can shrink down the tumor. We are waiting for the results of a more extensive biopsy, and are pursuing options for a second opinion.

Kurt has described the responses from everyone as "humbling" -- what a great way to put it. The outpouring of support, love, prayers, and generosity from friends and family has been absolutely overwhelming. We are so blessed, and so grateful for all of you.

We hope you all find this site useful and uplifting. Kurt and I intend to post as often as we can, remembering, of course, that life goes on. There is much to celebrate and experience beyond cancer; the world doesn't stop. We will be busy doing the sorts of things we love to do, and will post when we have news or thoughts or just want to say hi to you all.

As we all know, Kurt is strong ...a determined fighter...a wonderful husband, son, and friend....and a wicked smart ass. Expect to see a fair share of shockingly irreverent posts on here, as well as posts that share our fears and sad times. So, we will be using this in part as a information resource and part as a journal. We have nothing to hide from you all, and will be relying on our amazing support system to get Kurt through this. To that end, please comment freely, ask questions, whatever -- this is a forum for all of us.

We titled this blog "Waging War" because that is what this is: war. Kurt is fighting this on all fronts, with every weapon we have. This is take no prisioners -- Kurt wins, cancer loses. Period.