TABright

Life of Encouragement

2011-07-28T12:25:00.002-04:00

To any and all who have the opportunity to see this blog, take the time to go back to the beginning of the older posts, (2008) and read through the life of Thomas Allen Bright , born November 21, 1982 and went home to his Lord, July 23, 2011. His journey over the past 10 years (2001 - 2011) written about in these posts is an inspiration that you will carry within your soul for eternity. It will help any who are struggling with any of life's afflictions, tragedies, having bad days, loss of loved ones, but most of all celebrating life.

He was my family's superman!

Thank You
Pat Carver

Farewell to Thomas, our Superman

2011-07-28T09:50:00.002-04:00

Friday, July 22nd. Stacie woke Thomas to try to get him to go to an MRI that was scheduled that morning. Thomas told Stacie he did not want to go and started talking with Stacie telling her "Let me go, just let me go". He knew it was time. Stacie called his doctor's office and they rescheduled his MRI for 3:50 p.m. When Stacie told him of the rescheduled time, he again said,"no, I'm not going, I won't be here, I'll be in a better place". I knew then that Thomas truly knew this day was going to be his final day. He said 3:45 several different times, but would not give us an explanation. He told us to let him rest there in peace, just keep him comfortable. He did not want to go to the hospital again nor any more scans. It was so hard but Stacie and I decided to grant his wishes and we let him sleep and rest comfortably that Friday. Around 3 or 3:30 Stacie woke him to give him some of his meds, he seemed to be getting uncomfortable an experiencing some pain, about 5 minutes after taking his meds, he immediately threw them up. We at that time made the call to get an ambulance and transport him to the hospital, he was getting worse, not talking clearly, and without his meds would be in pain. Stacie had talked with his doctors and nurses several times that day to have them help her make these painful decisions on granting his wishes of not taking any further action. We knew in our hearts that he did not want to go back to the hospital but I also knew we did not want him to suffer a second, so we had him transported.

After getting him to the hospital, the doctors ordered a scan of his brain since he was not coherent enough to talk any more and they told us the unfortunate news that the tumor in his brain was hemorrhaging. They told us then there was no more they could do other than keep him comfortable. He was placed in the oncology ward in room 566. From that point on, Stacie and I, Tom, his Dad, Mom, Sisters, Aunts, cousins, friends etc. we sat with him and made sure he was taken care of. Around 3 a.m. several family members had already left or had to leave and at that time Thomas was resting comfortably. Around 4, he seemed to become agitated, so his wonderful nurse, Heath, came in and administered his medications, his blood pressure was real high and they told us to expect this. Heath also told me at that time his breathing was getting slower and we needed to watch him closely. I had convinced Stacie to lay day and get some sleep around 3, so I decided to wake her and explained to her that Thomas seemed to be getting worse. Jana and Kaylen, Stacie and I, sat with him and in a very few minutes, Thomas went very peacefully to join his Lord in Heaven. I glanced at the clock and it said 4:35 on July 23rd, 2011.

We all at that moment realized that Thomas had tried to tell us the time, we feel he just had his numbers confused, instead of 3:45, it was 4:35 a.m. I witnessed more in Thomas's final hours in how God can work, I felt God was talking with him, guiding him and caring for him in such a gentle manner that day to bring Thomas home in such a glorious and honorable way. Thomas had accepted God and I knew his trust and faith let him go in such a peaceful and wishful way. As he told me, "he was going to run into his mansion". His last 2 weeks were also wonderful, he was in such a good state of mind, eating everything he could, (this was probably due to the steroids, but he was eating!) and talking freely about what may be happening. Getting to speak one-on-one with loved ones and coming to his final peace. We had an absolutely marvelous 4th of July, this was his favorite time of year, he loved fireworks. He and I bought a whole truck load. We had 30 or 40 or more family and friends and all seemed perfect. He got to come to the Carver Reunion on the 16th, so many family members got to see him there too. He ate good and had a good day. Later that evening, He, Stacie and I went to Parkway Drive-in an watched the last Harry Potter film and Zoo Keeper. He had a really great time. So as usual, Thomas did what Thomas wanted to do and he was always so good at it.

He had fought so long and so hard over the past 10 years, but at the same time, Thomas was one who looked at this disease as something in his way and he worked and lived and accomplished so much in his short time here, more than most do in a long lifetime. All the many treatments, the loss of the use of his legs, the deteriation of his body, but he always had a smile and he always kept going. He was an absolute amazement to me and he has given me so much and given so much to my family. His love, his friendship, his all, that he gave to Stacie and Julie was wonderful and his legacy will live with us always. I can't say enough good about him, but I can say, if anyone out there needs encouragement, read Thomas's story here in this blog. One of my high school class mates shared his thoughts and I'd like to share his quote, Jim summed it up with these very words;

" I read the blog and would recommend that everyone read it. It follows a family through the roller coaster ride of this terrible affliction. It illustrates how a family fights together and props each other up through a long ordeal. It speaks to the power of a good outlook and humor in the worst of crises. The spirit exhibited by young Thomas was amazing and inspiring. The human body can be conquered, the human spirit cannot."

Thomas's funeral turned out to be very consoling. Family and friends filed through non-stop for 2 hours and the chapel was full for his service. As Reverend Craig Carlson and Reverend Jason Blair stated, it was obvious the number of people who cared and loved Thomas and also how much Thomas had inspired and touched them. We were fortunate enough to find a recording of a song he loved for years that his Grandmother used to sing, so even though she left us few years ago, she got to sing for him right before the service started. Jason and Graig did a wonderful job helping us through the grief and sorrow and I want to thank them with all my heart for all the kind words and the scriptures that summed up Thomas's final evening with us all. Graig has known Thomas and Stacie for years, he spent a week rooming with Thomas at a youth camp when they were still in high school, he also privileged us by marrying Stacie and Thomas on May 6, 2003. So I know he loved being able to be there to say his own goodbye too.

Tom and I are trying very hard to hold it together and and I know we will and I also know Stacie and Julie will come to terms with his loss and I know as Julie says "Daddy is with Jesus and I don't have to worry about him anymore". If a 6 year old can understand and have that simple faith, then we can too and we will. Thomas told Stacie Friday, I just want you and Julie to be happy and I know as difficult as it is now, they will eventually experience many years of happiness. My final words I will be saying here are very simple, but very true and they come from my heart, I had quoted this on my facebook and I want to share it here:

Thomas you brought a light into my family that will burn throughout all my remaining days. You and I had a place in our hearts that we always knew was such a special bond. You brought happiness and more than I can every thank you for to my Stacie and my granddaughter Julie is so awesome. You will live forever in our hearts and in our lives. You are an inspiration to so many and you are proof that God gives us special people and even though he may take them home much too soon, He made sure our lives were made so much better due to your presence and the many gifts that you gave us. I cannot express how much I love you and how much I will miss you, but know I will carry you within my heart and soul forever. Can't wait til we meet again and rejoice in God's kingdom. I know you have run into that great mansion God had waiting for you and I know you are at peace! Love you now and always, Momma Pat

I want to thank all family and friends for their prayers and support over all these years, know truly that Thomas is at peace and we all will be with him again. He rests now at Grandview Cemetary in the Temple of Prayer section and he lives free in Heaven with his Lord and Savior!

Best wishes of Love, Luck and Laughter throughout your days till we all meet with him in God's house.
Pat Carver

Funeral arrangements for Thomas

2011-07-24T19:30:00.000-04:00

Receiving friends Tuesday evening 5:00 to 7:30 p.m.at Smith's Mortuary in Maryville TN which is located just past Blount Memorial Hospital on the right.

Funeral at 8:00 p.m. also at Smith's

Burial will be Wed. at 10:00. Those wishing to be in the procession will meet at Smith's.

Food can be brought to the Life Center behind Smith's where lunch will be served Wed. after the burial.

Thomas has his legs back! RIP

2011-07-23T10:54:00.003-04:00

Thomas Bright, my sister's son-in-law, husband of Stacie and father of 6 yr old Julie, went to be with his Lord and Savior this morning at 4:30 a.m. (7/23/11). Rest in peace, Thomas.

So many have loved you and so many will miss you greatly. Now you have your legs back!

Thomas fought Melanoma cancer for over 10 years. Thomas was 28 yrs old.

Smith's in Maryville will hand arrangements and burial will be in Grandview Cemetery.

Arrangements incomplete at this time.

Submitted by: Lillian Lancaster

Thomas continues... (by Lillian)

2011-07-09T08:58:00.000-04:00

I'm going to try to catch you up with what's going on with Thomas, but not sure of all the details, so will highlight what I know.

Before Thomas was released from the hospital, doctor told him a stint might drain fluid from his brain and reduce the pressure/swelling. He told them he didn't want to spend what time he had left recovering from the surgery and decided not to do it. He would go home with hospice assistance.

If you know Thomas, you know he wants to know EVERYTHING about any subject that he is involved in and this stint was no different. After he got home, he decided he wanted Stacie to take all his scans to neurosurgeon in Knoxville to find out his options before he signed up with hospice.

When someone is signed up with hospice, all ties must be severed with all doctors and treatments are no longer an option. All medical needs must be done thru hospice. Families cannot even call 911. Thomas did not want to take this final step without at least checking into the stint to satisfy his own mind that he had made the right decision about refusing the surgery.

Well... the neurosurgeon told Thomas he did not recommend the stint. If they did the stint and later the tumor started causing problems again, they would have to do more surgery to remove the tumor. Yes, remove the tumor. This doctor says the tumor at the base of his brain is operable. Thomas had been told by other doctors that surgery was not an option. This surgeon, after seeing the scans, says he can remove it.

Now, the plan is for Thomas to return in one week for another MRI in order to see what is happening with the tumor... see how Thomas is feeling, etc. If nothing is changing much, then they will wait another week or two and see what happens. IF... Thomas starts having problems like what put him in the hospital... headaches, not being able to keep down food... then surgery can be done to remove the tumor.

As far as I know, Thomas continues to feel good and not having a lot of pain. We suspect the tumor is blocking pain from lower body. I haven't heard much since I saw him on Monday.

We never count Thomas down...

Update 6/29/11

2011-06-29T13:34:00.001-04:00

Thomas woke up this morning back to his old self. He has no memory of past three days. Option to insert stint to relieve fluids and/or pressure on his brain was explained again and he says he does not want to spend the time he has recuperating. so, no surgery.

Hospice will evaluate and if they recommend, he may go home for time being.

Addition: Thomas went home this afternoon.

Thomas is at the crossroad.

2011-06-28T10:12:00.002-04:00

It is my troubled time when I must say that Thomas has reached the point that he may not be able to continue his fight against this horrible beast called melanoma cancer. For the past month he has taken a turn for the worst. He's been dealing with a lot of pain and his right hip has worsened like the left hip and he no longer can walk at all. He has been in a wheelchair for about the last 6 months and can no longer stand for no more than just to get from his recliner or bed into his wheelchair. This past weekend has been his worst. He got to where he could not tolerate to eat, the smell or even talking about food made him sick. Everything he ate would make him get sick and throw up immediately. He's also lost so much weight.

To bring things to a little more light, the tumor on his cerebrum in the brain has returned and they can no longer pursue any treatment. It is causing pressure on the brain and he has a lot of pain in his neck where it is located. One good side, what ever is going on, he's not had to take his pain medicine for the rest of his body since Saturday, he seems not be be in pain except for this area and it is only occasionally. I'm assuming that the pressure and possible swelling on the brain is deadening the pain throughout his body. He has lost a lot of weight and his body is finally getting to the point I just don't feel he will be able to have the strength to fight much longer.

It breaks my heart and is ripping my soul apart to see him as he is but he's still a wonder and he's still doing the best fight he can. Stacie had to take him back to Blount Memorial Hospital yesterday morning and Dr. McCathren pulled Stacie aside and told her, "you do realize it is close to the end". They made the call to admit him and I don't know at this point if he'll get to home again or not. They did blood work and also another MRI last night and we are now waiting on the results of the MRI on the brain. I also know my Guy, he'll fight to the end. At this point we do not know for sure when his fight may be over.

It has also reached the point where we are trying to find the right words and manner to let Julie who is now 6 yrs old know what it happening with her Daddy. It is so difficult to try to tell her and to know if she truly understands. She knows Daddy is sick and since he's been in the wheelchair she says Daddy is hurt. I feel she does understand more than what we may think and she is another priority in our hearts right now too. Stacie is being a wonder in herself, I know she too is wanting to fall into a thousand pieces but she is maintaining the best she can and is by his side and will be till God makes his call on what will be best for Thomas. I know God is with him and will take him home when it is time. I feel too he's doing his best to make sure Thomas is not in a lot of pain. Thomas told me a few weeks ago he's really not afraid of dying, he said, "I'll get my legs back", so I know too I can rest in heart and soul knowing he will go home to be with our Lord.

We are finally at the time of waiting! Please pray for him and please know we are so thankful for family and friends during this time and I know God will get us through whatever will be. I hope I'm wrong but I also pray he will not suffer.

With love and sincere thanks
Pat

Thomas starting chemo treatments 9/29/10

2010-09-29T17:56:00.002-04:00

Thomas has had his radiation on his left hip to see if the tumor that had increased and was causing so much pain could be put back in control. It did seem to help, but, after the radiation more scans were done to see what effect had taken place and the doctors found that the cancer has now spread from the hip down his femur bone in his leg. The only other treatment that they can try is a type of chemo that may get the spreading of the cancer back under control. He has opted to take a treatment once a week for 3 weeks, have a break and continue as such for as long as needed. It may make him sick, won't know until he gives it a try. They had told him he could take a treatment once every 3 weeks, but that this method would definitely make him real sick for about a week, so he decided to try the once a week for 3 weeks instead.

We can only hope and pray that these treatments will help him and again get this ugly beast under control.

They have finally closed and moved into their new house and are currently trying to get things organized. It is a beautiful place, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, full 2 carport garage plus free standing carport at back of house. It also has a full underground pool, hottub and a beautiful fenced in patio circling the pool. A small utility house equipped with a comode for outside use when using the pool. A cute little sign on the fence that reads, "welcome to our OOL! Notice there is no "P" in the pool so lets keep it that way. LOL Their new home is sitting on a beautiful lot and in a very nice neighborhood. They are really quite proud of it. Julie has already made a new friend, a little girl 6 years of age lives right next door. So they have become friends already. They are riding the bus to and from school together, so that has been a plus too. Julie seems to love riding the bus and still loves school. A-Plus!

Life can be filled with so much heartache, but at the same time, life is still going strong for Thomas and he is still our lift for support, he's looking forward to Thanksgiving at the new house for all our families, Stacie has volunteered to cook and he's going to be celebrating his 28th birthday on Nov 21st. I know the "Big Man" has had a plan for Thomas for a long time and I pray he will continue to be with us to fulfill these plans for a much longer time.

Please keep him in your prayers and always try to see each and every day as a wonderful new beginning of life.

With love and thanks
Pat

Thomas update 9/7/10 Difficult Times

2010-09-07T13:03:00.003-04:00

Hello: Want to post a few updates on Thomas. Currently for the past couple of months, Thomas has been having some real painful issues. He has been experiencing horrible pain in his hips and legs, loosing strength in his legs and having diffculty managing to walk. He was walking with the aid of a cane to help with balance and unfortunately now has to use a walker or wheelchair. The tumor in his left hip has increased and is causing most of the pain. He discovered he also has a bulging disk in his lower back and there's not a whole lot to be done concerning this either.

Dr Petty is now doing radiation on his left hip, 10 treatments currently in progress. He is taking a lot of pain medications trying to control his pain levels and is doing some better as of this week. He's not been able to drive anymore, at least not for the time being, and I'm sure he is dealing with some depression due to the state of what he is having to deal with. He, on the other hand, is still very optimistic, and still has that wonderful sense of humor I love about him, but I know it must be difficult for him. He was taken off the clinical trials as of March 2010, his doctors explained that his immune system is now boosted to a point his body is saying I've had all I can take. As Dr McCachren stated to him, "we have rode that horse as long as we can". It is now to the point of waiting to see what the immune system can do to control his cancer. All the tumors that were in organs, brain, lungs, etc. are still gone, he only has what is left attached to bone. Still in chest, rib & hips. He has lost quite a bit of weight, hard to keep eating as you should when you are on so many pain medications but he is doing his best.

Julie will be 6 yrs old in Jan 2011 and is now in Kindergarten this year. she still loves school, a great plus! Stacie has taken a manager's position of one of the Great Clips stores located in Alcoa and is doing her best to juggle her work, home, school and taking care of Thomas & Julie. I am so proud of her I cannot express in words how truly great she is and how far she has came in her career is such a blessing. Family is trying to help as much as possible.

They are also, if all goes well with the closing, getting ready to move into another house. It breaks mine and Tom's hearts that they are moving, but, also oh so happy for them to be able to get into a bigger place to give them all more room. The 2 bedroom trailer has reached it's limit. Thomas has no room to really get around, plus this house has an underground pool and hottub that will do him wonders. It's an older house, but has been really fixed up over the past 5 years, new roof, Thomas loves it, it is a tin roof, talk about some good sleep'n! 3 bedroom, 2 baths, all one level, to make it much easier for him to get around, full carport, etc. The pool is only 5 yrs old and it's in a good country setting not too far from us.

As I watch Thomas, I can see he is having some difficult times, but we are still waiting on that miracle and we are still bound by his strength to keep doing what ever is necessary to continue to fight this bad beast. He is my amazing son-in-law, reality, a son to Tom and me and he's now also one of God's lambs. They attend church as much as possible and Thomas has the Lord in his heart. This I know, alone, will give him more strength to endure.

Please say those extra prayers for Thomas, Stacie & Julie and all of us as we continue to have this amazing person in our lives, fighting for his life. He will be celebrating his 28th birthday in November. He deserves so much and he has given so much more.

Love you all
Pat

Test results 4/1/10

2010-04-07T16:12:00.002-04:00

Thomas had his 1st scans done following his every 3 week instead of every 3 month treatments on 3/31/10 and we met with his doctors on 4/1/10 for the results. We are again in humble thanks, all still looks good, Doc said his brain is still normal, of course we had to object LOL, doc corrected himself and said all looked normal, did not know if he was using it normal? lol, haha! All other areas look good too. The new place in his chest that was giving them so much concern seems to be stabilized and has not changed any. All others same way, no new tumors, all still being controlled. We could not have asked for better news. He's still experiencing pain in his right hip and leg, but he's been doing some self-stretch routines each morning and it seems to be helping, plus still controlling the pain when necessary with Ibuprophen and Hydros if needed.

Some more outstanding news, couple Sundays ago, at a little church in Maryville called Outreach, Thomas went to the altar and dedicated his life to our Lord, Jesus Christ. He has now found the truth and salvation and has become one of God's Lambs. He and Stacie both have found that calling and seem to have found more happiness, more love and more peace knowing they have been saved by the grace of God. What ever roads they must travel will now be easier and at the end of those roads will be the greatest gift of all, Eternal life with our Lord and Savior.

Thomas has bought himself a nice Ford F150 Truck, shiny red, extended cab, makes it so much easier for him to get around. The little ole car he had before was just get'n to be a headache for him to get in and out of and changing gears was a pain not needed. He's just bout got his fishing boat finished and the time is just around the corner when you'll be finding him, Stacie and Julie at the lake, camping, fishing and enjoying life. Definitely going to be joining them as much as possible myself!!

We can only keep our faith that what ever plan the "Big Man" has for Thomas will become a long and fruitful chore for Thomas to do for many years to come. So far, his treatments have been doing miracles and we now know that God is definitely on his side. He truly has been blessed in so many ways. Please keep him in your prayers and I know he will continue to fight with all he's got to make sure this ugly beast stays under control.

Thanks to you all for your support and may your life be filled with love, luck and laughter
Pat

Update past few months on Thomas Fall 09 to 3/11/10

2010-03-11T15:21:00.003-05:00

It's been a while since update, so I'll try to catch everyone up. First of all, Thomas celebrated his 27th birthday on Nov 21, 2009. He's such a cutie!!

We've had some great holidays, Halloween was a HOOT! We had a great old fashioned Halloween Costume Party at the Carver Den as we call it, my downstairs bar. About 25 or so of the best spooks were there and we all had a blast! Thanksgiving as usual, stuffed on turkey, good family gatherings. Christmas as always, filled with fun, Santa bring'n our little ones good things and great family get-togethers and giving thanks to Jesus Christ our Savior.

Around fall of last year Thomas somehow fractured his right hip and did not know it. He had been bothered with pain in his hip and leg and when scans done, he found he had a fracture. We assumed it was from where he had been walking so much on a daily basis on pavement, concrete etc. at work selling cars. The continuous impact aided in the fracture, not real sure, just guessing since he doesn't really know how he did it. His doctors realized that the area in his right hip where one of his melanoma tumors are, even though micro size, had weakened the hip joint and allowed the fracture.

At this same time, Thomas and his doctors decided it was best for him to retire from the working world. This was a very hard decision for Thomas but for his best interest it was the right call. Fortunately, he could draw short-term disability ,again,thru work through Jan 10 and he has been fully approved for disability from social security, but, he's had to wait 6 mos before receiving any money, so they have had to watch their financial issues. Hopefully, the last of April his 1st check from disability will arrive, which will be retro'd to beginning disability date and they can get back to some peace of mind with a steady income. So, Feb and March will be their hardest financial crunch to get through then with his SS disability things should improve.

He has been spending his time, picking Julie up from pre-school each day, and spending a lot of good quality time with her, working on a fishing boat getting it ready to hit the fish'n holes in spring. Visiting relatives, most of all, just hang'n around the house and hang'n out with family and friends. You can find him on Facebook and playing poker on-line. Keeping him from over-doing is the key factor we all deal with. But, as hard as it has been to get away from the working world, he is adjusting. I won't call him a house-husband, but he has been quite helpful around the house.

In January 2010, from his scans, they found that a new lesion has appeared on his right 5th rib close to the other one and increased in size significantly to make them decide that Thomas needed to be put back on what they refer to as the induction period, which means, instead of treatments every 3 mos, he is back to having them every 3 weeks. This will hopefully get this new lesion back under control. All others are still under control. He is experiencing more fatigue mainly in his leg muscles and hips and ususally has to take ibuprophen or hydros to control his pain sometimes, but mostly he maintains quite well on his own. Climbing stairs is quite a chore and going to Jump Zone for birthday parties is out of his daily routine, he of course overdid this a few weeks ago, sliding down slides, tumbling, etc. plus same afternoon, at a 2nd birthday party, shot basketball which just added to the pain. He was quite sore the next day. So, I think he is learning to pace himself better. Had to tell on him! But, over-all, Thomas is still doing extrodinarily great! and I say more power to him. Being a kid is hard to stop doing and oh so much fun.

Julie turned 5 on Jan 21st, 2010 and she's keeping him on his toes. It's get'n warmer, so 4 wheel'n is the thing right now, roll'n across the fields around the house is something they both love to do. I'm sure as weather gets warmer, camping, fishing, cookouts, 4 wheel'n, you name it, if it has fun, a little dare-devilish and relaxation as a description, Thomas will be fully involved. He and Stacie and Julie are all doing oh so fine, Stacie is still working full-time at Great Clips at the strip mall beside the new Walmart on 411, so her income has definitely helped keep them afloat. Any time you're by that way, look for her bright yellow GTO, stop in and see her and get a new do.

His next scans are scheduled for Mar 29th and results on Mar 30th. As usual, we keep the prayers roll'n and we keep the faith good news will prevail. Thomas is one of God's lambs and he looks out for him and has so far blessed him with so much and I pray he will continue to do so. He has blessed my family more than he will ever know!

If you'd like to contact Thomas, look for him as I said on Facebook or give him a call at 865-254-2342 or call me at 865-661-8489. Thank you for all your prayers and good wishes. I'll try to do better about up-dating his blog.

Love you all
Pat

Results of Scans Tuesday 10/20/09

2009-10-22T09:12:00.002-04:00

Thomas is still our miracle baby!! We got great news once again, no tumors have increased and even the 4 that had, doc says they have actually decreased a little. He's still dealing with the fractured hip, feeling some weakness in his right leg, especially when walking up steps, doc says that will take time and due to the damage from the tumor to the bone area, it may not heal for quite some time. He's hoping since Thomas had both hips radiated, this will help to let things heal faster. The place in Thomas' chest that he had radiated few months ago, seems to be doing better. Not causing him pain as it was before. I just keep praying and giving thanks to our good Lord and I know he's doing his best.

Now if Social Security will come thru for him and he starts drawing his disability since he can no longer work, then Thomas can dedicate his time to him and taking care of himself, enjoying some quality life and times and get rid of some STRESS!! He doesn't have to deal with scans or treatments again til NEXT YEAR! Don't that sound good. His next appt for scans is Jan 11th, treatment Jan 12th, 2010.

Keep Thomas in your prayers and we thank God for his blessings.

Loving my boy
Pat

Thomas is having some problems

2009-09-18T16:46:00.003-04:00

Hello: We have found out that Thomas has a fractured right hip where one of his tumors is at. They feel from where he had been walking so much on pavement at work he has fractured his hip and did not know it. He's been having a lot of pain over the past few weeks.

The docs did new MRI's and scans and he has now found out that the tumors in his right and left hip have increased again. Also, the tumors in his chest (2) have increased by 1 cm. At this point, we do not know if his treatments are no longer working or what. They are going to radiate both hips to try to stop what's happening.

They are also telling him he needs to stop working. Thomas has made the call to apply for disability and not return to work.

We do not know for sure what is going on, but please put him in your prayers.

Thanks
Pat

Just a Hello filled with Thanks 5-13-09

2009-05-14T09:43:00.002-04:00

Hello: I'd like to take a moment to thank each and all who have helped Thomas and Stacie & Julie (my son-in-law, daughter and granddaughter) over the past year and past 6 years, either thru prayer, financially, support or just a passing thought of wishing them well. Without family and friends, a life threatening illness can cause so much pain, worry, feelings of total loss and desperation. I consider all of you as my family. I also want to let you know that at the moment, Thomas, again, is defeating the melanoma cancer! HURRAH AND THANK GOD FOR HIS MIRACLES! He has been fighting this demon since he was 18 yrs old.

Thomas turned 26 yrs old this past November and today is doing so fantastic, it is hard to conceive. I guess the word is BELIEVE! He no longer has any cancer in his brain, just scarring where the tumors (7 or so) were, very few throughout torso (8 or so), any left that are still measurable, which is only 1, is drastically reduced. He will continue to have full body scans, MRI's, bone scans, etc and a treatment every 3 mos for the rest of his life. So every 3 months we gear up, hard not to prepare for the worst and so far, we are getting the best!! A year ago things really looked so dim and the outlook did not seem there would be any possibility he could defeat this. His doctors right along with us are in amazement.

Thomas' attitude has always been as if this was just a toothache, get on with it, get on with life. He once said, the Big Man obviously has a plan for me. Instead of filing for disability as his doctors tried to convince him to do, he is still working full time at Carmax and pushing for all his might. Unfortunately, he did loose his sales manager position this past week, but he immediately went right back to being a salesman since they had some of those positions open, Carmax had to cut back on managers nationwide due to our economy crisis. But, that's Thomas, started as a car salesman, climbed that ladder, but he can do it again. Success is the only word Thomas knows how to say, never defeat. But this fall is no comparison to what other events that could have taken place. He sold a car the first day, this past Monday, so he's back to his same ole self. He did say to let you all know if anyone needs a car, give him a call 865-254-2342 and he'll be the man you need to see.

He and Stacie just celebrated their 6th anniversary, May 6th, they have been together for a total of 10 years. I have pictures of their grade school dance, their senior prom and their wedding, if this tells you how long these 2 have been beside one another. They are also here on his blog. Julie Patrice just turned 4 in January and is growing like a weed. They are back living here in Tennessee from South Carolina and living right next door to me and Tom in a trailer we bought and set up. Blessings by galore! But most of all, God has blessed us with Thomas' life.

Again, I want to share my thanks from them and from me.

Keep the prayers flowing and may God bless each and every one of you.

My deepest thanks
Pat Carver

Scan Results 5/5/09 (Miracle is the word)

2009-05-05T11:17:00.004-04:00

Today, Tuesday May 5th, 2009 the scan results basically show NO MORE!. I want to thank God for this miracle! Thomas has 1 tumor that is still measurable, located in the chest near the esophagus. It was 3 mm when this bout began over a year ago, today it is 1.5 mm which once tumors get less than 1 mm the doctors consider them no longer a concern. All but one of the 15 or so melanoma tumors Thomas had throughout his torso and brain are considered non-existent.

He has gained back to 225 lbs, a growing boy, ha-ha! and is continuing to work full time. He will continue on his every 3 month cycle, scans and MRI's on Monday, results on Tuesday and his treatment the same afternoon for the rest of his life. What ever this miracle drug they are giving him along with God's healing power, Thomas is doing great.

We still continue to pray that his body will continue to accept this treatment and continue to keep his immune system a working army against this enemy. Thankfully his returning to Tennessee to be with family and getting care from his cancer doctors here, his attitude by far, and the most important, God's miracle power of healing, I'm sure has been Thomas' salvation.

I think Thomas understands that today is the beginning and tomorrow is not to be worried about. He will continue fighting and as long as his treatments keep his immune system boosted he will control this ugly beast. We also know that as long as God's love embraces him he has the most powerful source on his side.

I have told Thomas for years of what a success he will be and has become and again success is his! HURRAH FOR THOMAS!! As Thomas said, "The Big Man upstairs must have a plan for me!

May life be filled with continued success and may life have many blessings for you all.
Keep Thomas in your prayers and thank you all for being such a great support.

Next update - July 28th

Love
Pat

Update - Scan results - 2/10/09

2009-02-11T15:57:00.002-05:00

Thomas had all his scans done on Monday 2.9.09 and we met with his cancer doctors Tuesday 2.10.09. HURRAH! GREAT NEWS! His results were amazing, better than 3 months ago. All signs of tumors are gone completely from the brain and all throughout his torso have continued to decrease, but one. The one tiny tumor in his chest on the rib cage has increased from .9 to .10, it is still so small that the doctors are not concerned. He had been experiencing some pain in that area in the last couple weeks, but they said it is from inflamation. Telling him to take Ibuprofen for the inflamation. He said he had been doing that and things seem to be getting better. All the other tumors are either gone or decreased. He has gained back his weight and is really looking and feeling great. Still has some lost agility in his legs from the surgery he had done on his spine last year, but all feeling has returned, and they told him to start doing some exercise, nothing over-exerting, bicycling, walking, swimming etc.

They gave him his treatment yesterday too, so he will continue on this schedule every 3 months. Scans on Monday, results and treatment on Tuesday every 3 months. We are so estatic and feel so blessed that this clinical trial treatment has done so much and the miracle of God has definitely been with Thomas.

We want to thank all who have kept Thomas and family in their prayers and we ask for continued prayers to keep him going down the path he is following. This road seems to be the perfect path for him to keep fighting and keep his cancer in control.

We will keep you posted on any future success or change.

Thanks
Pat

Scan results 11/18/08 HURRAH!!

2008-11-18T13:29:00.002-05:00

Thomas had new scans done Monday 11/17/08. He met with his doctors this a.m. 10/18/08 and we have great news! His brain is quite normal, has one teeny tiny tumor left, the tumors throughout his torso are all reduced even more than they were in August. HURRAH HURRAH HURRAH!!!! He was getting ready to take a treatment this afternoon when I talked with him by phone and from this point on he will be on a maintenance program, 1 treatment every 3 months as long as it continues to fight his melanoma and keep it under control or the body decides to reject the treatments. We know and have always known that Thomas may not be cured 100% at least that's what the docs say, but as long as his immune system can be kept up to the point of fighting this ugly beast and God is in Thomas's corner, then hopefully he'll be here for a long time. We thank God for all that he has blessed Thomas and all my family with! Now, if we can just get them financially stabled out and sell that monsterous liability called a house in South Carolina and get them on with living, then life will be GOOD!!!! No 25 year old needs to carry these burdens! By the way, his 26th birthday is coming up on Nov 21st, could not ask for a better present than the news we have received today. He's a walking miracle and one that we hope will continue to prove that cancer can be controled, a good attitude (boy does he have one), the good Lord and good docs might just be the controlers. We just pray that things continue to get better and he continues to stay strong.

Keep him in your prayers, they have done wonders.
Thanks and love to all
Pat

Click on top photo to see next photo

2008-11-09T23:47:00.001-05:00

Oct 31st - Update - Thomas & Family - Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T10:03:00.004-04:00

It's been since August and things are rolling right along with Thomas and his family. They are now in their trailer, things are still piled up, but, it's home for now. Trying to put a 2 story house of belongings into a trailer is not easy! We are working at getting them more storage area and getting more things done to the Trailer. It's so good to look across my field and see my young'ns are safe. Thomas is back to work basically at a full time status now. The main obstacle that is still giving them a hectic time is trying to sell the house in SC. Today's economy is really got things in a mess and it just won't sell. Thomas is in SC yesterday and today getting a few things done with the house, hoping to rent it. At least that way he won't have to continue making such a huge house payment for a house they don't even live in. It's become quite a financial burden but he is bound and determined to work it out. He's worked too long and too hard to get his credit history so good, so he's still paying for it after all this time. If you know of anyone who may be looking for a home in Simpsonville SC, it's really a great place, and can go for a great deal, please let us know.

As far as his cancer is concerned, he is going thru his 12 weeks off from treatments and seems to be doing great. He will return for more scans right before Thanksgiving and if all is still as well as it was from his last scans, they will put him on a maintenance program and he will have one treatment every 3 months to keep his immune system fighting hard. It is still, to me, a miracle from God that things have turned out so well. We just hope and pray that God's plan for Thomas is one that will keep him here for a long, long time. His hair has come back and he has a cute mohawk effect, right down the middle of his head, his hair is gray, I think it's cute. Stacie, being a licensed cosmetologist, can fix it, don't know if he will though.

Stacie is back to work, she's now cutting hair at the Envy Salon and Spa in Maryville. If anyone is looking for a great hair stylist she's top of her profession, she really makes me look good!! If you'd like to go and see her and let her spruce you up, she's at 1714 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy in Maryville, give her a call at the shop 983-1414 or call her cell phone 254-2317. She's just getting started back and really needs some clients and it's always good to make new friends and see old ones. If you are familiar with Maryville, go down 321 past Foothills Mall going towards Lenoir City, at the 1st red light where you would turn right to go to Denzo, turn left into the small business area and Envy is located in the small strip mall. It's real convenient and they are now taking walk-ins too. She can set her own schedule, so if you need a late evening she can accomodate you. The shop is actually open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, but she has use of the shop for later appointments, just give her a call.

They are trying so hard to keep their heads above water, as I said, the house payment in SC and now daily living expenses here in TN are difficult but they are bound and determined as usual to rebuild their lives back to where they used to be. Thomas sees and accepts nothing but success.

Keep them in your prayers, it's still the greatest healer and I know God is listening.

Thanks for listening to me and thanks for all the love and prayers to date.
Love to all
Pat

Very good news!

2008-08-26T19:58:00.002-04:00

Great news! Thomas had seven tumors in his brain. They are all gone but one and it is about 50% of it's original size.

The other tumors that were in his torso are either gone or 50% less. He had cancer in about a dozen places. Now, only in a couple of places. At least, I think that was what Pat said. We were both laughing and crying.... I'm not sure. I just know that they were all so HAPPY about what the Dr. had said. They told him he can drive, so he's going to buy himself a car!

They weren't going to do scans for another 12 weeks. Then they decided to do scans now. He just finished treatments last week. The stuff they have been giving him will continue to work for another three months. Maybe all the cancer will be gone, when the next scans are done!

We praise God and give him thanks for the miraculous news they received today!

Lillian

Thomas getting tubes put in ears 8/20/08

2008-08-20T10:46:00.003-04:00

Thomas has been experiencing some problems with his ears. He has basically been having problems since his first surgeries back 5 years ago. He has to go periodically and get them cleaned out. He's been having more problems over the past few weeks. He woke up with an ear ache this morning, so he called his doctor and they have decided to put tubes in his ears to solve these problems.

He also talked with his cancer treatment doctor, Jill, and she wanted him to have blood work done also to make sure his counts are stable before he has surgery to have the tubes put in.
Hopefully these problems are not related with his cancer.

I know the tubes will help. He's been experiencing symptoms like being in a drum, echoing in his head from the ear problems and now that it has led to ear aches. I'm sure the doctors feel the tubes are a necessity.

Keep him in your prayers
Thank you
Pat

We have power and water

2008-08-20T10:42:00.003-04:00

It's been a good week, we now have power to the trailer and water. All seems to be working well. Getting air conditioning unit powered up today. Carpet layers are coming Friday 8/22 and refrigerator and stove being deliverd Friday also. The movers should be coming the weekend of 8/30. Hopefully all will be ready for them to move in by then. It's been a lot of hard work, but the trailer is look'n good! It will be so good to be able to stand on my deck and see my babies just across the field and know they are safe and sound in their new home.

Trailer: Everything delayed

2008-08-16T21:15:00.002-04:00

The electricity is still not hooked up. The carpet people won't come until there is electric. Movers can't move things until the carpet is down. So........ everything is delayed for now. They hope to have electric early next week. Now, the movers can't come for two weeks.

Everything will have to be re-scheduled.

Scan scheduled

2008-08-12T19:56:00.002-04:00

Thomas found out today they will be doing scan on Aug. 25th and get results on the 26th. He won't have to wait the 12 weeks, as he had been told earlier.

Lillian

1st day back to work at Carmax 8/11/08

2008-08-11T23:05:00.002-04:00

Thomas has gone back to work at Carmax. His first day was today and he made it just fine. They have also done a WHOLE LOT OF WORK to the trailer. They have painted all the rooms, now putting down tile in kitchen and will also tile bathrooms. Water meter in and hope to get water line finished tomorrow. Electricity hooked up by this week also. Carpet layers are to be here Thursday. The movers are coming Friday to get their furnishings out of storage and brought to the trailer. Hopefully moved in by next week. Thomas has his 4th treatment tomorrow, 8/12 and then he will be off for 12 weeks, at the end of the 12 weeks he should then have all new scans done to see the great results that these treatments have done. He seems to be feeling real good and the test results should be astonishing. That is all we will accept. Keep the prayers flowing and hope for only the best.

Thank you for all the support and prayers
Pat

3rd treatment completed and we have a trailer

2008-07-28T11:08:00.004-04:00

Thomas has just completed 3rd treatment this past Thursday 7/24. He's doing real good, starting to get the rash back a little, but otherwise seems to be doing good.

They finally found a trailer up in Sevierville and have had it pulled to our property. Waiting to get it anchored and leveled out and then some work will need to be done for some minor improvements. They are going to do some painting, put in new carpet and re-apply cool-sealer to the roof. We are going to build a deck on the front and back porch to get in and out of it. They will have to buy appliances, since this trailer was not furnished in any way. Waiting for the water meter and then we will dig the water line and then get power and we'll be ready to go. So hopefully in the next 2 to 3 weeks they will be in their new home and back to stay in good ole Tennessee.

Thomas will take one more treatment and then he will have all new scans done. We are continuing to pray and hope that this ugly beast has tucked tail and run for the hills. Life just does not have any room, nor time, for this to continue causing havoc for Thomas. Please continue to pray and hope for the day we can all shout "Hallaluhah!"

Please put my brother-in-law, Earl Lancaster, back in your prayers. We have found out today that, unfortunately, his pancreatic cancer has returned and the outlook is not looking good. But, we still hope for the best and are keeping our faith. His blog: http://earl-cancer.blogspot.com/

Thanks for all the support
Love Pat

July 15th Update

2008-07-15T10:49:00.002-04:00

Thomas has now completed his 2nd treatment and seems to be doing well. Most of all his pain in his hip has subsided and he's not having to take as much pain medication as before. He developed a rash over the weekend on his legs and back, called his doctor to see what it may be and what he could take for it. Doc told him to take benadryl and use creams that do not contain steroids. During the conversation with the doctor, he made a comment that Julie, the doctor who's giving him his treatments would be tickled about the rash. When asked why, the doctor responded that this means the treatments are working. So the rash is a side effect from the treatments and it's a good sign. Never knew a rash could be a good thing? Thomas is planning on going back to work at Carmax in the next couple of weeks. His doctor's have approved him to return. They say if he's feeling good enough to do this then most definitely it would be a positive thing for him to do. He still can't drive but he is making arrangements to take advantage of the ETHRA transportation program, they will pick him up and take him to work each day. We continue to be very hopeful that these treatments will control this and Thomas can get back to a normal life. Stacie is now working at Asbury Acres and going to get her CNA training. Seems to really love working with the elderly. Continue those prayers, God has definitely reached out to us.

2nd treatment July 3, 2008

2008-07-03T00:19:00.003-04:00

Thomas has his 2nd treatment 9:45 a.m. Thursday July 3rd. Hope it continues to do it's miracle work. He seems to be feeling quite better, has been having quite a bit of pain in his left hip over the past weeks, but seems to be doing a little better. We hope as he continues to have his treatments things will be continuing to get better. We are still hoping for our miracle and that soon all will be well with him. He's going to try to get his doctors to let him go back to work, he's about had it doing a whole lot of nothing, Feels good enough that he wants to work, he still can't drive, but there's always ways around that. Thought we had us a trailor all lined up, but things fell through, so we are back on the hunt. So if anyone knows of a good deal and one in good shape, need 3 bedroom at least 14x70, please let us know. Keep up the prayers and we will not accept anything less than NO MORE CANCER! Hope all who are keeping up with us are still praying and waiting for nothing but good news! Hope all is going well you!
Love to all and thanks for all the support.
Pat

Movers did a beautiful job, moved all by June 19th

2008-06-19T22:07:00.004-04:00

Thomas, Stacie, Julie and I all went to South Carolina Monday, the mover's Carmax provided for the move came Wednesday, packed up everything and moved all to Tennessee Thursday. They've placed all of their stuff in storage until we can get the trailor which we hope to have by mid July or it may be as late as first of August, depends on how long it takes the lady we are purchasing it from gets moved to Georgia.

Steve, the man in charge of the move (he came all the way from Richmond VA) told us when we get ready to move all of the stuff from storage to the trailor just give him a call and they will be here to move it all for us again. He and all the crew were super nice and are going way out to make this move as smooth as possible. The big job was keeping Julie out from under foot, hahaha! She wanted to follow them around and talk to them all. They all seemed to have gotten a big kick out of her.

Thankfully Thomas, Stacie and Julie are all home now.

Love to all
Pat

Results of scans and MRI's - 1st treatment done

2008-06-12T08:39:00.003-04:00

We met with the doctors at Thompson Cancer Center at Ft Sanders yesterday June 10th, and there have unfortunately been some new issues. The results from the radiation on the brain did some good obviously and some not so good. Out of the 6 or 7 tumors he has, only 2 increased in size, but we are talking very small increase, like in micrometer or however you put it, one from 3. to 5. another from 5. to 7. from the way the doc described it. But, there is now a new tumor at the base of the brain. Some of the tumors in Thomas's torso have increased some, he mainly mentioned the area in the back of the left rib cage.

He has been experiencing some tightness in the back muscles again below where he had the surgery done, so they are getting him on the lipilumab treatments now. He also has been experiencing some joint and muscle pain in his left leg, knee and hip,mainly from inflammation, as long as he takes Ibuprovin daily, it controls his pain and reduces swelling around his joints .He also noticed the place on his right chest reduces in size after taking the Ibuprovin so we know it is imflammation not the tumor increasing.

Overall he really feels good, looks great and his energy level has increased. He went thru his first treatment yesterday afternoon right after meeting with the doctors. 90 min. infusion and then an hour after to observe to see if all went well. He's seems to have taken it quite well. No side effects yet. Hopefully there will be none and his body will accept the medication and whip this beast down to size and get it under control. I asked Jill, who is in charge of his treatments, if this would also help the tumors in the brain and throughout his body and she says there have been cases where it has definitely had good effects on the brain. We are waiting for that day!! He will take only 1 treatment every 3 weeks, doc says they will order new scans and MRI's in about 6 or 8 weeks.

Please keep Thomas in your prayers and we thank each and all for your support, prayers and comments.

Love to you all and I Love you Thomas
Pat

First treatment scheduled Wed June 11th

2008-06-09T20:30:00.002-04:00

Thomas is meeting with doctor at Ft Sanders Wed June 11th at 1:30 pm to get results of scans and then will have his first treatment for the immune boosting afterwards.

They will be going back to South Carolina this coming weekend to move all their stuff back to Tennessee. Have not got their trailor yet, so will have to rent a storage unit to store all their furnishing in until we can get the trailor moved and set up hopefully sometime in July. Carmax is providing movers to come in to pack up their stuff and move all for them back to Maryville, TN We are so thankful they are doing this for them.

Scheduled date for scans June 5th

2008-06-03T17:41:00.002-04:00

Thomas has been scheduled for Thursday, June 5th to receive all his scans, ekgs, MRIs, etc. His doc says he will be there probably all day, so I know this will be a very tiring day for him. Let's hope he can sleep through some of them. I Will post again when we get the results? Keep your fingers crossed, your hearts wide open, your hands clasped and your heads bowed.
Thanks and Love to all
Pat

Full body scan and MRI scheduled this week June 2nd-6th

2008-06-01T16:13:00.005-04:00

Thomas met with a lady Friday at Thompson's Cancer Center at Ft Sanders in Knoxville, to discuss the clinical trial treatment for the immune boosting referred to as Ipilimumab Monotherapy. He will receive one 90 minute infusion of this every 3 weeks, these treatments will be administered by this lady, named Jill, she is a partner of Thomas' main cancer doc, Dr. McCachren at Blount Memorial Cancer Center. This is a new and totally investigational compound. They are scheduling his scan and MRI one day this week, not sure what day yet. After getting results will start the treatments. Please keep the prayers going strong, we are waiting on those words that the radiation has shrunk or totally wiped out the tumors in his brain. I will post again when we find out what the results of his scans show.
Thank you all for your prayers and comments.

End of Radiation Treatments 5/16/08

2008-05-15T09:50:00.003-04:00

Thomas will finally be finished with his radiation treatments on Friday May 16th. He has been doing well throughout these treatments but for the last couple of days, fatigue has set in and he has been sleeping quite a bit during the afternoons and not feeling too good. We hope this will subside after the treatments are over. The next bit of info is it will be another 3 or 4 weeks before we will find out results of what the radiation may do. According to his doctor, radiation continues to work on the tumors even after treatments stop. So they will wait until 3 or 4 weeks to let the radiation have it's full effect and then another MRI will be done to see the results. He meets with his doctors Friday a.m. to see what is going to be done next. They are still talking about doing the ammune booster but not sure if it will start now or after the radiation is complete, so it may be a week or so before they do anything else. We are going to try some home grown remedies Thomas knows of during this time also.

They are still looking for a mobile home to get set up, have found some possibilities, we are looking for a size in the area of 60 or 70 long by 16 wide or a double-wide, our hold back is funds, we only have about 15K to spend so if anyone out there knows of any good deals and any trailors that are in good shape, furniture not needed, please let us know. Either post here or call 865-856-2546 or 865-661-8489.

Please continue to keep Thomas in your prayers along with all his family, we still know God will get us thru this.

1st Week Radiation over today Friday May 9th

2008-05-09T11:37:00.005-04:00

Thomas has had his first week of radiation on his brain and back and has come through it real well. He's really had no symptoms from it other than feeling tired. He'll get a break over the weekend, camping is scheduled if Mother Nature will cooperate. Then, resume radiation on Monday for 5 more days.

We are still working steadily on getting them moved home, getting septic tank put in today, getting mobile home some time next week if possible. We are working to set them up a place on our farm land in Maryville, so we can have them close and give Julie a place to run.

I assume after his radiation they will order another MRI to see if the radiation has had any effect on the tumors in his brain, which of course we pray they'll be reduced or even better yet, GONE!

Thank you for all the support so far and all the prayers, please keep Thomas and all of us on the top of your list, as Thomas says, "the Big Man has a plan for me" and in Him we trust.

In Jesus' name we pray!
Love
Pat

Celebration of 5 years

2008-05-07T00:18:00.002-04:00

Thomas and Stacie celebrated their 5th wedding anniversary today, May 6th. Please send them some love and wishes for many many more to come!
HAPPY ANNIVERARY!
Love from Momma Pat and Daddy Tom

Radiation starts today

2008-05-05T08:40:00.002-04:00

Today, Thomas will begin radiation on his back where most of the tumor was removed on April 18th. I understand he will also start radiation on his head in an effort to shrink the spots in his brain.

Thomas and Stacie went to SC last Wed. and returned to TN yesterday. While they were gone, Stacie's Mom worked a small miracle. With the help and cooperation of the powers that be, the soil test has been done and someone will be out today or tomorrow to lay out the drain field. So, things are rolling right along to get them set up in a place of their own.

Lillian

Update on Thomas

2008-05-02T08:06:00.001-04:00

Thomas is not allowed to drive any longer. If the spots in his brain enlarge, pressure from or rupture of one of the tumors may cause seizures. There is hope that the radiation will shrink the places in his brain.

Phone call last night: Thomas & Stacie are proceeding with plans to set a mobile home near her parents. Her mother is going today to start obtaining necessary permits. Before any site work can begin, soil test must be done. They were first told this could take up to two weeks. Efforts will be made to speed this process along.

His doctors are seeking clinical trial information, but unless Thomas can have some guarantee that whatever treatment he would receive would really help.... we just don't know if he would opt to do a trial. He would have to be away from family, friends and home. His doctor has said the treatments cannot be done here. One theory is....Thomas would have to be isolated in intensive care for a week at a time for each series of treatment.

Please continue to pray diligently for Thomas and Stacie. In fact, all of us covet your prayers. It is so hard for all of us to grasp that this cancer has attacked and invaded Thomas' body is such a short time.

Lillian

Results of MRI .......

2008-04-30T16:19:00.003-04:00

There is no way to sugar-coat this…..

The MRI on Thomas shows the cancer is in his brain. Doctors told him today that there are six or seven spots. Radiation will begin Monday to try to shrink them. He will also begin radiation on the remainder of the tumor on his spine.

Doctor has advised Thomas not to go back to work. Told him he needs to spend time with his family.

Thomas and Stacie are traveling to SC this afternoon to start process of selling their home and talking to his employer.

Please continue praying for this whole family.

Lillian

Treatment update

2008-04-26T15:20:00.004-04:00

Hello all: After Thomas had his appointment yesterday (Apr 25th), no radiation yet. The docs only set up things to do the radiation. Marked off areas on Thomas and made some kind of a mold to focus on certain areas. The markings can't be washed off, so he's having to be careful when he bathes. His radiation will not start til after he gets his staples out Monday, he will then go thru 10 days of radiation on his back, not sure of actual date they will start, will probably be in the next week or so.

He also found out he has a yeast infection in the back of his mouth, doc said it was from taking the steroids which is one of his medications he taking right now 4 times a day. So he's got some more medicine to rinse his mouth 4 times a day to cure this. One more thing to contend with, minor though.

He and Stacie are going to go home for a couple of days next week (Thursday or Friay) to get things hopefully worked out with his employer about getting moved back to Tennessee. We are keeping our heads up and keeping the faith to get Thomas through what may come. Thanks to you all and please keep Thomas in your prayers.
Love
Pat

Radiation treatment

2008-04-25T10:57:00.002-04:00

Thomas is scheduled for the radiation on his back today at 1:00 p.m. at Blount Memorial Cancer Center. Hopefully this will stop any further return growth of the small bit of the tumor that could not be removed by surgery. He is scheduled to return to Dr. Boyer at Ft Sanders Monday to remove his staples from his back. The doc did a great job on his incision, he should have very minimal scaring. He is scheduled for the MRI on his brain Tuesday back at the Blount Memorial Cancer Center. So he's got a full schedule over the next few days. Fishing is scheduled over the weekend hopefully. Keep those prayers flowing.
Love Pat

Thomas's results as we were told

2008-04-24T02:00:00.003-04:00

I'm just clarifying a few things. The radiation that will be done on Thomas' back is to keep the tumor from growing again, since they could not remove it all. His cancer consists in the following: he has a place growing on his right rib cage, a small spot on his left rib under the arm, a lymph node in the lung, 2 to 3 small spots on his spine below where he had the tumor removed. One spot on his right pelvic bone and one spot on his left pelvic bone.

Due to the vast areas in his body, surgery is out of the question to attempt to remove anything further. The only way to fight melanoma is thru the immune system and further surgery would only weaken him.

I feel very confident in the doctors who are currently taking care of Thomas and I know Dr. McCrachen will do all and go above what may be necessary to make sure Thomas gets the treatments he will need. He told us we will not cure him but we will fight for all it's worth to control this demon that has attacked his body. His doctors consider Thomas family and they will fight for this young man. The full body scan shows the brain and all looks good, the MRI is a precaution only to confirm that there is no melanoma in the brain. MRI's are more detailed.

We are gearing up to get Thomas, Stacie and Julie back home here in Tennessee with family and friends and ready to take on the war to do what ever it takes to keep Thomas with us. I ask only for the continued prayers and future support where needed. Thank you all for what you have done so far and may God bless each and every one. Falling to pieces is what we are trying so hard not to do and God, family and friends will help put us back together if we do. In Jesus' name I Pray!
Love Pat

Very sad news!

2008-04-23T14:59:00.004-04:00

Our news is about as bad as it can be....

The melanoma has spread just about everywhere. There are spots on both hips, one lung, under one arm, in his rib cage, all across his upper chest, in his lower spine. I can’t remember if Pat told me more. He is already classified as “Stage 4”.

No surgery will be done, because it is in too many places. They are going to do radiation what was left of the tumor on his spine.

His doctors trained at M D Anderson in Houston, TX, so they have contacts there. They are going to try to get him in a clinical trial at NCI (National Cancer Institute) in Washington D.C. or at M D Anderson.

The doctor who referred Earl (my husband) to Fox Chase in Philadelphia had told Earl about NCI day before yesterday. We had already relayed this info to Pat & Thomas.

Pat said she feels confident that his doctors will do everything possible that they can do for him. They talked about NCI being their preference.

An MRI will be done on his brain. It will be more detailed. There is no cancer in any of his major organs at this time.

Please keep Thomas and the whole family in your prayers. They will have to be making so many major decisions about so many things.

I hope I have not mis-stated anything. Pat, please correct any errors.

With so much love and so much pain in my heart,

Lillian

Back to see doctors on Wed.

2008-04-22T00:36:00.001-04:00

Thomas goes to see his cancer doctors Wed. 4/23. They should have pathology report from Friday's surgery. (Lillian)

HE'S HOME

2008-04-20T14:34:00.002-04:00

Thomas is home! He was released from hospital this morning, Sunday, April 20th. He's doing really good. Up and about walking good, very little pain. His incision looks good, doc did a great job with the staples, no redness, healing great. We are now waiting for the results of the testing on the tumor and gearing up for what may come. Keep the prayers coming, they seem to really be the foundation for our success. Love to you all
Pat

Stroll outside

2008-04-19T14:26:00.002-04:00

Thomas is up and about today. He walked down the hall, came back to his room. Sunshine looked so good, he wanted to go outside. So, he and Stacie went down and outside for a little while.

Feeling is gradually returning. They expect it to get better over the next few days.

Doctor told him this morning he will probably be released on Monday. He's ready to get out NOW!

Lillian

Feeling in feet is better

2008-04-19T10:25:00.002-04:00

Thomas told a nurse last night that he was already able to feel his feet better. She told him it would continue to improve thru the night. Hope he is much better this morning. Nurse asked him if he wanted to get up last night, but he decided he would wait until this morning to try getting up.

Hope he was able to rest better last night. He has not been getting much sleep recently because of the pain.

Thomas out of surgery

2008-04-18T17:36:00.002-04:00

Thomas got out of surgery little after 5, I guess. Doctor had talked to the family. Pat came out and relayed info to Earl and he called me right at 5:30

Report was that Dr. was not able to get all the tumor, as predicted. A little bone was removed, but Thomas should be able to walk immediately. He will be in the hospital until Monday, at least. Pathology report won't be back until Tues. but doctor said he suspects it is Melanoma.

The family has been discussing the situation this afternoon and are saying they are taking Thomas to Fox Chase in Philadelphia, whether he likes it or not!! This is where Earl went for his pancreatic cancer surgery last year. I hope Thomas will at least go up and talk to the doctors, before he makes a decision about his treatment.

Thank you for your prayers and support during this trying time for the family. A very special "Thank You" to our ETHRA family for your "prayer meeting" at work today. You are all such wonderful friends. It's great knowing you are all there when anyone needs your support. We love you all.

Lillian

Thomas update @ 4:50 p.m.

2008-04-18T16:46:00.000-04:00

Just had a call from Liana. Thomas did not go to surgery until about 2:30 p.m..... some holdup related to patient before him.

I got a total of five hours from Thomas yesterday. Liana says the surgery is to be approx. three hrs, then two hrs in recovery. This will put it around 7:00 or 7:30 before I may have any news. Unless they get to talk to the Dr. after surgery is over around 5:30.

I will add news, just as soon as I know anything.

Lillian

Headed to the hospital.

2008-04-18T09:38:00.001-04:00

Thomas is moving very slowly this morning. Pain shows on his face with every move. He was not allowed any meds since last night. Only Tylenol.

Pat, Stacie and Thomas just left (9:30 a.m.) headed to Ft Sanders Regional Hospital in Knoxville, TN. Thomas will undergo an estimated five hours of surgery starting around noon. He was told yesterday that this surgery will not "fix" anything. It is an attempt to prevent paralysis. Based on the MRI done Wed. doctor knows he will not be able to remove all of the tumor. Thomas will receive radiation in an effort to kill what cancer is left.

Our prayers are that this will not be Melanoma, but some other kind of cancer. It's just that his history brings fears that it might be Melanoma.

Little Miss Julie is waking, so will be back with update just as soon as I hear from Pat this evening... probably around 5 or 6 p.m.

Lillian

Surgery scheduled

2008-04-17T20:50:00.004-04:00

Thomas' surgery will be Friday, 4/18/08. He is to be there by 10 a.m. with the surgery starting around noon. His text said "I should be out by 5 p.m. Wish me luck!"

Please keep him in your prayers!

Lillian

More news on Thomas

2008-04-16T18:52:00.001-04:00

While talking to Pat at lunch on Monday, she said the tumor is on the outside of his spine where it will be easier for surgeon to get to it, though it is squeezing the spine and putting pressure on the spinal cord. It is located just about center between waist and neck. There is no involvement with any of his organs. The other spots are located in upper chest apparently in the chest wall or just under it. The PET scan did indicate cancer, which the doctor is assuming is melanoma due to his past history.

The surgery will be done at Ft. Sanders. Thomas meets with surgeon Thurs. 4/17/08 at 2:00 p.m. He expects to find out then when surgery will be done. (Lillian)

This is an update from Pat that she emailed to co-workers this morning:

I want to take a moment to bring you up to date. Many of you may remember my son-in-law Thomas, who 4 and half years ago, at the age of 18 during his senior yr in high school, was diagnosed with melanoma cancer and went through 3 surgeries over the next couple of years fighting this ugly demon.

In the past 4 years Thomas and Stacie have been living a great life, he has already became a sales manager for Carmax (youngest in the entire corporation) and they now have a beautiful little girl, Julie, who just turned 3. They live in South Carolina presently due to Thomas’s job.

What I am now asking is that you put Thomas in your prayers once more. He was again, as of yesterday, diagnosed with a melanoma tumor that is growing on his spine. They came home last night for him to meet with his cancer doctors on Wednesday to hurriedly get him into surgery to remove this tumor.

He has already lost most of the feeling in his legs and has tingling sensations throughout his body. Otherwise, this tumor is putting pressure on the spine, where it is slowing paralyzing him. He also has two spots that showed up on his scan last Tuesday behind the front chest cavity. This all has occurred within the past couple of months. When he had his scan done in December 2007, all was still clear.

This is such a fast growing and can be such a deadly cancer. I beg of you all, please put Thomas in your prayers that he will again defeat this ugly beast.

I thank all of you for all your prayers, concerns and help in the past and I’m reaching out to you again.

Love
Pat Carver

Thomas' cancer is back

2008-04-16T18:15:00.006-04:00

Thomas Bright is married to my niece, Stacie. Stacie is the daughter of my sister, Pat and Tom. Thomas had his 25th birthday in November 2007. Thomas and Stacie have a three year old daughter, Julie.

Thomas found out Monday, April 14th 2008, that the melanoma is back in the form of a tumor attached to his spine. There are also a couple of "spots" in his chest or in the chest wall.

Don't have much info. They are coming in from SC tonight (Monday). He is to see his doctors here on Wednesday. Surgery asap. This will be his 4th or 5th melanoma surgery. He has been having back pain for last 3-4 weeks. No info on size of tumor.

Please pray for Thomas & Stacie. We are so afraid this is the dreaded recurrence that will take him from us. There is no chemo for melanoma, so don't know what treatment might be available. Great strides are being made in cancer treatment. There may be something new after four years.

What follows are notes I found that were made over the years going back to the other surgeries.

~*~ 2001 - 2003 ~*~

Thomas Bright, twenty years old, has cancer. His cancer is called Melanoma. It started when he was 18 years old in 2001, during his senior year football season, on a small mole on the left side of his neck. His first surgery did not “get it all” and required more surgery. Thomas loved playing football, but spent the last half of the season cheering his teammates on from the sidelines.

In the Fall of 2002, thinking his cancer had been “taken care of”, Thomas asked Stacie to marry him. Soon after she accepted his proposal, a knot showed up in one of his lymph nodes on that left side of his neck. He had another surgery to remove all of the remaining lymph nodes on the left side of his neck from under the point of his chin all the way around past his left ear. It had only been about ten months since he was first diagnosed.

There is no chemo for Melanoma. Thomas had radiation for several weeks. He then started on a year long series of treatments, which he injected under his skin three days a week. This caused his body to produce more of the stuff that naturally fights infection/cancer. After each injection, he had fever and chills, which were gone by morning. This left him weak, run down and feeling awful during the next day. Even with the radiation and treatments, Thomas had only been given 50-50 chance of beating this wicked form of cancer.

They originally planned to marry in 2004, after Thomas completed his treatments and Stacie finished her courses at East Tennessee School of Beauty. In Thomas’ case, life was uncertain. He and Stacie decided waiting might not be their wisest decision. So, they set their wedding date for May 6, 2003. Two days after the invitations were mailed, Thomas had a biopsy done on a small knot on the right side of his neck that he had been told “wasn’t anything to worry about”. Only six months into treatment, another cancerous knot had formed.

Thomas had surgery again on Tuesday, April 29, 2003. This five-hour surgery removed all of the lymph nodes from where the previous surgery stopped at his chin all the way around to his right ear. He had the drain tube and staples removed on Monday, May 5th, then he and Stacie married the next evening.

***** More notes *********

Stacie's boyfriend, Thomas Bright, had major surgery on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2002. His cancer (melanoma) came back in his neck. The melanoma he had on his neck last November 2001 was on the outside skin. This one was in the lymph nodes on that same left side of his neck, only it was inside. Knot formed that was growing fast.

This really scared them. Pat was checking out M D Anderson Hospital in Houston, TX as it is known as a really GOOD cancer hospital. Dr. Roseman, in Maryville, is the doctor that took off the first cancer. He referred Thomas to Dr. Mark Overholt to take care of this second cancer.

When Pat and Thomas went to Overholt on Wed, 9/11/2002, during the get acquainted talk, Dr. O said he met his wife at M D Anderson. Pat could hardly wait for him to finish speaking to ask him "What did you say your connection with M D Anderson was?" He said that's where I met my wife. Pat then told him she had been trying to figure a way to ask him about possibly sending Thomas to Texas for surgery, treatment, etc.

Dr. Overholt said "You're looking at M D Anderson, that's where I studied and got my Doctorate”. Pat was SO HAPPY. This Dr. O is one of two doctors in the whole state of Tenn. that is capable of doing Thomas' surgery. (Other one is in West Tn.) He removed all the lymph nodes from Thomas' chin around past his left ear. He has NO nodes now on that side of his neck. The incision starts at the point of Thomas' chin, angles down and across almost to the base of his neck..... across and back up about two inches behind his ear. Dr stapled that long incision about every 16th of an inch!

Dr O told Thomas before the surgery that he would definitely have radiation and treatment following surgery this time. Dr. O did tell them after surgery that this one was not as deep as he had thought... it was more on top of the muscle, etc. Dr O had told Thomas that he would probably lose feeling in his left ear (which he did) and might lose some function of his face (smile crooked) and maybe ability to shrug his shoulder. Since it wasn't so deep, Dr was able to save Thomas' sweet smile. Guess the shoulder is OK, too.

Dr. O had wanted to get this OUT the next day, but no operating rooms available. Dr. O is at Ft. Sanders Park West and only available place was at Ft. Sanders Regional (at UT area) on Tues. They had to wait six days. These two hospitals are about 10 miles apart, owned by same outfit.
Sandra (works at Blount Memorial hospital in Maryville) told me that when I told her Roseman had referred Thomas to someone else, she knew this was a hard case. Roseman is one of the best in this area, so for him to refer Thomas didn't sound good. Dr. O told Thomas he couldn't be in better hands for treatment and radiation, that Dr R is very good.

We now hope and pray that all these good doctors can save Thomas. Keep him in your prayers. He's just 18 (in 2001), much too young!!!

Thomas bought Stacie an engagement ring a couple of months ago, plans to ask her to marry him on her birthday, Sept. 28th when she turns 18. Sure hope all this doesn't .... Well, never mind, I just don't want to go there!

Thomas had last radiation treatment on Oct 19, 2002 To start other treatment week after Thanksgiving.