Stage IV

Gordon's Story

I'm a stage IV (liver mets) colorectal cancer survivor (so far!!), diagnosed 7/31/03. I had radiation, chemo (Oxaliplatin & Xeloda) prior to colon and liver resections with temporary ileostomy in 12/03 with a return to the same chemo regimen in early 2004.

Scan in April '04 showed recurrence in liver. Due to my recent surgery, RFA was chosen as the preferred option that month. Following RFA, went on FOLFIRI plus Avastin (had been recently approved) in April 2004 and finished that treatment 11/04.

Following a negative scan in December 2004, I enrolled in a new clinical trial at Duke Medical Center to test two new cancer vaccines designed to stimulate the body's immune system to attack CRC cells in the blood before they can form tumors. All was well until July 2005 when another recurrence appeared, again in the liver.

I had another liver resection in August 2005, and began another chemo protocol (Avastin, Erbitux, irinotecan) in October. Scan in April was negative, but history of recurrence resulted in continuation of "preventative" course of chemo (same as previous, since was well-tolerated, except for the famous Erbitux rash) scheduled through August 2006, at which time I'll have another scan and reevaluate the situation.

One thing that has been clear is the need for physical activity, and a regular exercise program, coupled with good nutrition. It's amazing the difference that makes in my energy level. So far, I continue to feel fine, except for getting tired earlier in the evening for a couple of days after the long-term chemo day (every other week).

I marked my three year anniversary on August 1, 2006. I've been active in CCA's Buddy Program, and have worked with patients and survivors in my area who are referred to me by mutual friends, nurses, etc. Wrote flier for newly diagnosed patients to help guide them through the initial onslaught of information, confusion, and uncertainties that come with the diagnosis. Active in Golfers Against Cancer, an all-volunteer organization that has raised over $10 million directly for cancer research (Greensboro chapter raised $260,000 last year at our first attempt, granted to research programs at our three comprehensive cancer centers in NC (Duke, UNC, Wake Forest Universities). We evaluate and choose from the programs presented to us via grant proposals.

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