Cancer Kinda Sucks...

  Today marked my last scheduled appointment of the year. It was a relatively simple visit—just a scope and a conversation about how to manage follow-up care once I'm back in Japan. It's surreal to think that by tomorrow morning, as the sun rises, I’ll be boarding a plane and heading home. As I prepare to leave, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for the people who have lifted me up through all of this. The birthday and get-well cards I received this year outnumber any other year by far—each one a reminder that I wasn’t going through this alone. I’ve had friends travel from Arizona, Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina—just to check in, catch up, and remind me what normal feels like. I was generously loaned a pickup truck for months with no strings attached—just a quiet “I’m happy to help.” During treatment, food and flowers showed up at my hotel from Norfolk with simple, beautiful reminders that I was loved. Family and friends stayed with me in Richmond, supporting me while...

My mediport was removed today without any complications. I’ve been told to avoid lifting anything over 10 pounds for the next few days, but otherwise, everything should heal well—leaving just a small scar as a reminder. One week from today, I have my final appointment. And one week from tomorrow… I board a plane and head home!

Blood work came back, and thankfully, my kidneys are cooperating. My taste buds are still off—more missing than present—but I’ve started to figure out what works with what I’ve got. It’s been nice to finally enjoy a few meals again. Next Monday, I’ll have surgery to remove my mediport. The following Monday will be my final appointment with the radiation oncologist. Then, on Tuesday the 17th, I’ll be up bright and early to catch a flight home. I haven’t seen my wife and kids since I said goodbye on January 21st. That moment is finally within reach.