In June of 2023, a small lump was noticed on my left testicle. I was treated for a possible seminal vesicle infection, but symptoms never completely went away. By December 2023, symptoms returned and were worse than before.
I was sent to a urologist where they confirmed I had testicular seminoma. Surgery was performed to remove the affected testicle in February of 2024, and initial rescans were clear.
Upon a three-month rescan in July of 2024, it was noted the cancer had spread to my peritoneal cavity, and several lymph nodes were malignant. A several-month course of chemotherapy shrunk the initial areas but not enough to ward off surgery. So, a radical retroperitoneal lymph node removal was performed in December of 2024, followed by two more strong doses of chemotherapy.
A few weeks ago, my back began bothering me again, and I wasn’t set to have scans until July. I saw a primary care physician for what was thought to be a back strain from returning to work and regular duty. I was urged to call the oncology team about scans if I was nervous because there was not a timely place to receive a non-emergency CT scan in SW Oklahoma.
A few days later, I decided to call the doctor when I spiked a fever. Worried it could be a kidney infection, my care team asked me to come into the ER. Several tests and scans were done, my care team was contacted, and we waited. I’m sure it was hard for that ER PA to sit down and tell me the scans showed some concerns.
My cancer has spread further. It is now invading my liver, colon, kidney area, and is causing a 57% blockage in my aorta. This news was the last thing my family and I wanted to hear. It’s been a long two years. I am preparing for long hospital stays and stem cell treatments using my own bone marrow. And more chemotherapy. High dose chemo at that.
Not only is my diagnosis challenging, but insurance will not cover therapy at OU Stephenson Cancer Center. While the facility is capable, BCBS requires a distinction standard of care. So, I will be transferring to MD Anderson in Houston. This will be 7 hours from our family and friends, but I’m hopeful this will be the cure. I have been out of work most of the year battling this disease, and financially we are unsure of how we will make this happen. But, all things are possible!
