Support Jerome’s Fight Against Stage 4 Cancer
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We are humbly reaching out to share that my husband, Jerome, has been diagnosed with Stage 4 pulmonary adenocarcinoma. Our family recently migrated to the US in June 2024 on a working visa, and this unexpected diagnosis has left us facing immense challenges. Any support, whether financial or through prayers, would be deeply appreciated as we navigate this difficult journey.
Details below outline the challenges we have been facing so far as well as information on how you may help. Again, thank you for your time, kindness and generosity.
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On March 9th, we rushed Jerome to the hospital, thinking his difficulty breathing was just an asthma or allergy attack. We never imagined that this visit would lead to such devastating news. As we anxiously awaited test results, the doctors informed us that Jerome has fluid in his lungs, along with nodules in his lungs, thoracic spine, and lymph nodes. At first, we couldn't fully comprehend what the doctors were saying. They carefully explained the scans, showing us what was happening inside Jerome's body. They told us that the tumor has already metastasized, a term we didn’t even understand at the time. What we thought was a simple case of asthma turned out to be something much more severe—an aggressive form of cancer.
Jerome’s case is especially challenging because there weren’t any symptoms and he hadn’t shown any obvious signs of illness until this sudden attack. This news hit us like a tidal wave, and our lives have been turned upside down in the blink of an eye. We remain hopeful, holding on to our faith, and praying for strength as we face this difficult journey.
We humbly ask for your prayers and support as we navigate this difficult road. Below is an update on Jerome’s challenging medical journey so far:
March 10th: Jerome was waiting for the thoracentesis (a medical procedure used to drain fluid from the space between the lungs and the chest wall) and biopsy. He’s undergoing numerous scans to determine if he is fit for the procedure. A heart scan showed that his heart is being pushed to the right due to fluid and inflammation in his left lung. Additional MRI scans have been ordered for his brain, abdomen, and pelvis to get a clearer picture.
March 11th: They successfully drained 1.5 liters of fluid from Jerome's lungs. Although he's still recovering from the stretching of his lungs, he’s feeling more comfortable than the previous day. The biopsy has been delayed as doctors are ordering more MRI scans to ensure they don’t miss anything. The results indicated a suspicion of metastasis in his brain, abdomen, and pelvis. The doctors suspect it may be lung cancer, as the locations of the nodules and lesions point to the lungs being the center of the issue.
March 12th: Jerome was able to eat, though he's still dealing with swelling in his legs, making it painful for him to walk. He’s also sweating despite the cold weather. I’ve been assisting him with daily care, and his spirits are high. Despite the circumstances, Jerome remains positive, keeping a great attitude. The kids are adjusting well, maintaining their normal routine and staying connected with us through video calls.
March 13th: The oncologist and lung specialist visited Jerome and confirmed that he has Stage 4 pulmonary adenocarcinoma. Sadly, there is no cure for this advanced stage, but treatments are available to help manage the condition and improve his quality of life. Surgery to remove the tumor is not an option, but there is still hope. The plan is to first check for a gene mutation, which could lead to a treatment that may be more effective in targeting the cancer cells and preventing further spread. If no mutation is found, Jerome will undergo immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiation. Additionally, they are considering radiation neuro surgery to address the nodules in his brain. Jerome has had another tissue sample sent out for testing, and the doctors will conduct one more x-ray to check if his lungs are clear of fluid. If all goes well, we are hoping to bring him home soon—by Saturday at the earliest.
We'll continue to provide updates about Jerome’s journey. Please include us in your prayers as a family already facing this storm. We are also uncertain about our future here in the US, as we are hoping to find ways to stay and continue any possible treatments for Jerome. Your support during this uncertain time means more to us than words can express. Thank you for your prayers, your kindness, and your generosity. We truly appreciate you standing with us in this challenging time.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Chariz, Pao & Cody Arevalo
Organizer
Chariz Arevalo
Organizer
Savannah, GA