Bob's Battle with Cancer

My name is Paula Johnson and my wonderful husband, Bob, has been battling signet cell peritoneal cancer that originated from his appendix for the last 3 years. He has now entered into hospice. This news is heartbreaking for us and our two children, Gwen and Ramona. Bob’s health turned dramatically three weeks ago when he developed an intestinal blockage and can no longer drink fluids or eat without vomiting. Even though he is receiving some nutrition and fluids intravenously, he vomits often throughout the day.

Bob’s wish is to spend the rest of his days at home. Our family’s wish is to make him as comfortable as possible and be with him. Juggling caretaking and working is proving very challenging and it’s taking a toll on my children and myself. Donations will help relieve some of the fear and stress we are living with daily.

Donations will help us to

Three years of battling cancer have taken a toll on all of us emotionally, physically and monetarily. Bob has undergone surgeries and multiple rounds of chemotherapies but there is no cure. Every step of the way has been an exhausting roller coaster ride of emotions.

Over the last 3 years, our emergency fund was spent on high insurance deductibles and other necessities that are not covered by insurance. To help meet expenses, we are selling our boat and holding a garage sale but these will not be enough to make ends meet. I’d love to keep Bob at home with the time he has left and not have to try to sell the house for the next year. The kids and I need time to give Bob the care he needs and to grieve before having to get a house on the market.

Yesterday, before Bob was released from the hospital, we met with a doctor, palliative care coordinator, hospice care coordinator and social worker. As his health is rapidly declining, we all mutually agreed that hospice care was the appropriate decision to ensure Bob is as comfortable as possible and receives care at home. It was at this point that we realized that we needed help from our community.

I am sad, scared, stressed and some days feel like I’m barely hanging on. I cry on the way to work, on the way home from work and during quiet moments at home. I’m losing my best friend and it’s so hard to be his caregiver and take care of the house, bills, yard work and work my job at the same time. This next year will be the hardest that I’ve ever experienced. I feel my heart breaking more and more each day. While we continue to hope for a miracle, we need to prepare for the worst.

Thank you,

Paula