Initial Blog and Thoughts

There have been numerous requests that I continue to share my thoughts following the conclusion of the use of the Caring Bridge.org site. After hearing from several suggestions, this Blogger.com site seemed among the most user-friendly and easiest to access.

For those landing on this site for the first time, some background is essential. I'm a 60 year old midwesterner who was has been suffering for several years from bladder and urinary issues. Without the details, just know that we were saddened and shocked on September 17, 2009 to be diagnosed with urothelial bladder cancer. Since I have been seeing several different urologists over the past 3 years or so, this diagnosis was a shock. Even more so was the prognosis: very low percentage of cure with only a 35 percent for survival for 5 years. This was NOT what I signed up for. Debbie, my wife of 37 years, and I were very disturbed and disheartened by this prognosis. We started chemotherapy treatments the same week at the Siteman Cancer Center associated with Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis.

I have now completed 3 full chemotherapy cycles and most of my symptoms have been resolved. It is clear, however, that some symptoms are better, but not fully resolved. We will be taking more CT scans tomorrow as well as meeting with our urological oncologist, Dr. Seth Strope, to determine a forward plan. We tentatively have a 4th round of chemo scheduled beginning January 8th, but that will be determined by decisions made following our CT scans.

One of the greatest blessings to come out of this diagnosis has been my increased focus on my faith in God and how He uses us to accomplish His objectives. Not only that, but I have learned that interceding on others' behalfs is a great way to keep myself in check and to make sure I'm focusing on what is truly important in my life - faith, family and friends.

That's where we will start this blog. Where it takes us in the future is anybody's guess. I'll try to be faithful in blogging, but this is new to me so we'll play that by ear too. Thanks friends, for joining the adventure.

Jerry Scroggins