Support James in his CANSURVIVE Journey

Update 8/23/2024:

We are excited to share some positive news as we reach another milestone in our journey. The second phase of our treatment plan has been successfully completed, and we are filled with hope and gratitude as we look ahead to the next steps in this challenging but hopeful journey.

This phase brought with it its own set of challenges, both physically and emotionally, but with the unwavering support from friends, family, and generous contributors like you, we’ve been able to push through. The treatments have shown promising results, and the medical team is optimistic about the progress made so far. Every day is a step closer to recovery, and we continue to draw strength from the outpouring of love and support that surrounds us.

As we prepare to enter the next steps in James' treatment plan, we remain focused on the goal of full recovery. Your continued support, whether through donations, sharing our story, or simply sending positive thoughts, means the world to us. We are truly grateful for every contribution, large or small, as it brings us closer to the day when we can declare victory over this illness.

Thank you for standing by us during this difficult time. We will keep you updated on our progress and are hopeful that the next update will bring even more good news.

With heartfelt gratitude,

James & Tammy

Update 7/24/2024:

As we enter Week 22 of chemotherapy, I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and generosity throughout this journey. Your contributions, kind messages, and encouraging words have been a beacon of hope and strength for me and my family.

Chemotherapy is a challenging battle, but your support has made it more bearable. Each donation has not only helped cover the costs of my treatment but has also reminded me that I am not alone in this fight. Your kindness has been a source of comfort and motivation, giving me the courage to keep pushing forward.

As we continue this phase of treatment, I remain optimistic and determined. There are still hurdles to overcome, but with your continued support, I am confident we can face them head-on.

Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I continue this journey. Your support means the world to me, and I will keep you updated on my progress. Together, we are stronger.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

With love and gratitude,

James McKenna

781-526-2041

Update as of 6/22:

An Update on James’ Journey 

Dear Friends and Supporters, We are thrilled to share an uplifting update on James’ cansurvive journey. It’s been 110 days since his first chemotherapy treatment, and today, we’re celebrating his remarkable progress. Attached is a recent photo of James, looking strong and full of hope, a true testament to his resilience and the power of your unwavering support! Throughout these challenging months, your generous donations and heartfelt messages have been a constant source of strength for our family. Your kindness has not only helped cover medical expenses but has also provided us with the emotional support needed to keep fighting. We cannot express how grateful we are for each and every one of you. James has faced each treatment with courage and determination, and your support has made all the difference. While the journey is far from over, we are more optimistic than ever about his recovery. Thank you for standing with us, for your prayers, your donations, and your love. We will continue to keep you updated on James’ progress. Together, we are stronger. With heartfelt gratitude, Tammy & James ❤️

Feel free to text or call him directly 

781-526-2041 

UPDATE as of 6/7:

First things first! THANK YOU for all the support! We truly appreciate your kindness. Every text, call, card, words of encouragement, prayers & donations are greatly appreciated. From the bottom of our hearts…thank you! 

2 more weeks of treatment under his belt! This week’s treatment started with a 15-hour day on Monday (Hospital implemented new computer systems). Starting to not feel as well which is to be expected, but his attitude still is super positive, and we believe the treatment is working!! Please keep the prayers coming and again thank you for the support during this time.

UPDATE as of 5/24:

James started his second phase of treatment this month and is tolerating it well with some mild symptoms. This phase of chemo requires long hours in the hospital, wearing a pump for 46 hours (connected to a port) and administering shots at home to complete the chemo cycle. This phase will continue for several months. He has a long road ahead, but we are confident in his team of doctors and his progress.

We appreciate all the well wishes, texts, cards, prayers, and support to our family. Stay well and happy Memorial Day weekend!!

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Going back to 2016! I was asked by a friend if I wanted to participate in the Pan Mass Challenge - A bike ride where a community comes together from all corners of the world with one mission: To raise funds for cancer research and treatment. Their mission is “together, we will get closer by the mile to a world without cancer” My response was “I don’t have a bike but YES!” AND that turned into a 5-year commitment riding beside some of the most inspirational people I’ve ever met. Being a part of the @PMC ride was challenging (211 miles!), emotional, rewarding and FUN! Little did I know that 8 years later I would be writing my own story about cancer research. Here we go… 

James (Jim, Jimmy, Mac) was diagnosed with stage 3/4 colorectal cancer in January of 2024 after a routine colonoscopy. Shortly after his prognosis we met with an incredible team of Dr’s at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, and they recommended him for a RESEARCH study to which he agreed to participate in. After more tests, bloodwork and exams he was “randomized” to a more aggressive treatment track consisting of chemo and radiation 5 days a week for 6 weeks! James has been handling his treatments well so far and has such a positive outlook navigating this journey - He KILLED phase 1. This next phase of chemo treatments are “heavy” and we need your prayers for him to stay STRONG. Instead of using the “C word” we have adopted the word CANSURVIVE! 

James is not only my husband, but he is also my best friend, my rock. He is a loving son, brother, friend, nephew, father, uncle, son-in-law and stepdad! Always willing to help anyone out that is in need! He can make you laugh in ANY situation (the picture above was after spending 9 hours in the hospital, starting phase 2). James’ has been working at Logan Airport for 34 years and the rumor on the tarMAC is they are “missing their favorite Crew Chief”. #Cancerresearch #PMC 

We have had so many families and friends asking what they can do to help so we decided to share our story here. The funds raised will help alleviate some of the financial strain on our family due to loss of work and medical expenses. With heartfelt gratitude, thank you for every donation, share, comment and show of support for our family. 

Thank you for reading our story ❤️