Help Brandon and his family

Over the past few months I have been experiencing some abdominal discomfort I had attributed to possible long haul COVID or potentially some sort of food intolerance. Went in a few times to get CT scans, ultrasound etc. They were thinking it might be gall or kidney stones. My primary doctor finally referred me to get an endoscopy to see what the issues were inside my stomach as nothing was helping. The results of my upper GI pointed to an ulcer...and a large mass behind it. They sent the biopsy out to determine if it was indeed cancerous or not.

The results came back positive for cancer. Once verified, I had to go back yet again for another round of CT scans and a PET scan to determine staging and next steps for treatment....

Today, I met with the surgeon to discuss the results of my CT and PET scans.

Unfortunately, I've received terminal news. The cancer is rapidly spreading throughout my abdomen, rendering surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation ineffective. From now on, it's solely about managing the pain.

I'll be meeting with the oncologist on Friday to discuss the next steps in my chemotherapy treatment. I'll also undergo minor surgery to have a port placed for the treatments, as well as laparoscopic surgery to further assess the situation.

Realistically, the prognosis is around 12 months—a piece of news none of us were hoping for. There have been discussions of a second opinion down at the Mayo which I may explore. Right now trying to digest the news that life truly is finite.

To all, it has been an honor being part of your lives and receiving your love and acceptance. Without each and every one of you, I wouldn't have come this far. To those I have wronged in the past, it shouldn't have taken this for me to truly say I am sorry for any pain I've caused. My wish is that you all never have to experience pain or suffering.

I'll keep fighting as long as I can, but I urge you to support my family as this journey unfolds and continues after I'm gone. They will need love and care from those around them.

Cherish your loved ones. Give them an embrace for me. Love and gratitude to all!

Brandon