Marvin Heeler
June 29, 1919 - July 25, 2007
Marvin is my brother-in-law's grandpa.
Marvin's family shared these words about him:
Marvin first noticed a lump on his neck just after he turned
80. After getting it checked out, he found out he had thyroid cancer. The
prognosis was good, and after surgery to remove the lump he was cancer free for
a few years. By age 83 he was having prostate problems and upon checks with his
doctors he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
He had surgery to remove the prostate, had chemo treatments, and was
given a great chance to remain cancer free. Such was not the case, as within a
year he was hospitalized for a bladder infection. What was thought to be an
infection turned out to be bladder cancer.
He again underwent surgery and more chemo treatment. Although the
surgery was successful, the doctors now realized the chance of remaining cancer
free was minimal. And sure enough, within a year Marv developed a skin rash on
his belly area. At first he thought the rash was from a reaction to new pajamas
he had just started wearing. As a result he waited a few weeks before seeking
medical attention. By the time he saw his doctor again the rash had spread to a
large portion of his body and he was in constant pain. The diagnosis that
cancer had returned was not unexpected. At this time Marv was in his late 80’s
and treatment options at that age were limited. The doctors were very up-front
with Marv telling him exactly what his options were. Marv had a lot to do in
life yet and his mind was as sharp as ever, so he did not want to give in to
cancer or move into assisted living or hospice care. But he also realized that
Lucille, his wife of 50+ years, could no longer provide the care he needed at
home. Marv finally agreed to be put into hospice care, but was adamant that if
he improved he would get to go home. After three weeks in hospice care he
finally succumbed to the cancer and related health issues.
If there is one thing our family learned about dealing with
cancer it is to seek advice from as many different sources as possible; be
aggressive in questioning medical providers as to alternative care and
treatment options; and finally, seek second opinions if possible.
The Mile 25 was chosen because that is the birthday
(February 25, 2010) of Marvin’s first great-grandson, Weston Heeler, who everyone
in Marvin’s family says Weston looks like.
Make a donation in memory of Marvin and others we have lost, those still fighting, and those who may one day be spared this fight because of what we‘re doing.
Give to make yourself a part of this historical effort.
Make a donation in memory of Marvin and others we have lost, those still fighting, and those who may one day be spared this fight because of what we‘re doing.
Give to make yourself a part of this historical effort.
No comments:
Post a Comment