Fight Against Cancer

Dave was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer in February of 2021.  This was a huge shock because Dave was diligent in going to the doctor every year and there was never any indication that he was at risk.  He began taking hormonal drugs to keep the cancer at bay, which worked for about six months.  On November 26, 2021, Dave began his journey with chemotherapy.  Dave handled the chemo rather well- continuing to go up to the bowling alley, golfing, and meeting up with friends for breakfast and lunch.  Besides getting tired a little quicker, Dave had minimal negative side-effects and continued living life.  

In March 2022, Dave began remodeling the first floor of his house.  He tore out all the carpeting and tile and put in laminate flooring, removed a wall in the dining room, completely gutted and designed a new kitchen, put in new baseboards and painted window trim and walls.  He worked until he got too tired and needed a break, usually around the time Jeopardy was on.  It took a little longer to finish the tasks, but he was able to complete it all himself.  

On Saturday, June 11, Dave and his wife golfed in a golf outing with their good friends.  That Sunday, Dave was doing some painting in the living and dining room while Karen and Melissa cleaned and organized the newly finished kitchen.  

Monday, June 13, Dave woke Karen up and told her he was having chest and stomach pain and wanted to go to the emergency room.  Karen took him to Silver Cross Hospital and he was admitted because his liver was enlarged and his enzymes were high.  Although he was uncomfortable, his spirit and attitude were positive.  After many tests, with no definite answer, he was given pain medication and discharged on Thursday, June 16.  The following day, Friday, June 17, his oncologist called with devastating news.  His Prostate Cancer was not detected in his body, which was great, but he was diagnosed with Small Cell Carcinoma that started in his lungs and progressed to his liver.  He was going to have to start intense chemotherapy the next week, as this form of cancer is extremely aggressive.  

Dave received chemo Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.  During this week, Dave became increasingly weaker and spent his time at home resting, yet was hopeful that after this treatment he would be on the road to recovery.  On Friday morning, however, he passed away peacefully with his wife by his side.  

Before he passed, he asked Karen, "Where's that bright light coming from?"

There were no lights on.