David Steffes
December 31, 1934 - January 22, 2006
David's story, as told by his wife and my Grandma, Marjorie Steffes:
His cancer started with pain in the lower groin area, frequent trips to the bathroom, and bladder infections. He was tested for prostate problems, but instead they discovered a tumor in the bladder. He started chemo treatments and had many rounds with the hope that it would shrink the tumor. It didn't work, and on December 19, 2004, they removed his bladder. He had a small urine reservoir surgically created that allowed him to drain the collected urine. However, this did not stop him from working part-time or golfing.
His cancer started with pain in the lower groin area, frequent trips to the bathroom, and bladder infections. He was tested for prostate problems, but instead they discovered a tumor in the bladder. He started chemo treatments and had many rounds with the hope that it would shrink the tumor. It didn't work, and on December 19, 2004, they removed his bladder. He had a small urine reservoir surgically created that allowed him to drain the collected urine. However, this did not stop him from working part-time or golfing.
Things were okay for awhile, but then problems with the colon started. After many tests, it was determined that the tumor had invaded the colon and he underwent more chemo treatments. Again, the hope was that the tumor would shrink. And again, it didn't. On August 31, his colon was also removed. He then had two ostomies - one for his urine and one for his stool. Things were not easy, but he was very receptive and we were very hopeful.
Sadly, the problems only continued. A doctor discovered that his carotid artery was almost entirely blocked, but he would not operate out of fear of an immediate stroke. He wanted David to finish his remaining 2 or 3 cancer treatments before they would stent the artery. Unfortunately, he never got to finish those chemo treatments because while at home, he suffered a stroke and was taken to Calumet Medical by ambulance. After several days he transferred to Holy Family in Manitowoc for more intense treatments. He could not speak or eat on his own. While there, he had a heart attack and was transferred into the Intensive Care Unit. Family stayed by his side until on January 22, 2006, he passed away. His ultimate cause of death was sepsis, an infection that invaded his entire body and took advantage of his immunocompromised state.
We enjoyed 31 years of married life. He was a great husband and step-father to my four children, who were all teenagers at the time of our marriage.
We must always be grateful for each day in our lives.
Sadly, the problems only continued. A doctor discovered that his carotid artery was almost entirely blocked, but he would not operate out of fear of an immediate stroke. He wanted David to finish his remaining 2 or 3 cancer treatments before they would stent the artery. Unfortunately, he never got to finish those chemo treatments because while at home, he suffered a stroke and was taken to Calumet Medical by ambulance. After several days he transferred to Holy Family in Manitowoc for more intense treatments. He could not speak or eat on his own. While there, he had a heart attack and was transferred into the Intensive Care Unit. Family stayed by his side until on January 22, 2006, he passed away. His ultimate cause of death was sepsis, an infection that invaded his entire body and took advantage of his immunocompromised state.
We enjoyed 31 years of married life. He was a great husband and step-father to my four children, who were all teenagers at the time of our marriage.
We must always be grateful for each day in our lives.
My Grandpa passed away on January 22, so he will represent Mile 22.
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Hi Andrea~ I just stopped by and had a quick question about your blog. Could you please email me at emilywalsh688 (at) gmail.com when you get the chance? Thanks!
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