Dear Family, extended family, friends and supporters,
It’s been nine months since I found out the shocking news that I had pancreatic cancer. This journey has not been easy and I want to let you know though that I am doing very well. This miracle has happened because of the great treatment and care I am receiving which would not have been possible without you. The support and love I have received in the last year could move mountains and has changed my outlook on life. This diagnosis and unfamiliar journey at the beginning was a frightening rollercoaster ride for me and my family and I could not have managed it without all of you.
It has definitely been the most emotional 9 months of my life. Thanks to my supporters I was able to hastily get into Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. So far I have done 9 cycles of chemotherapy and will have a welcomed break in October. Early in the year my body had a shock to its system from the introduction of a brand new strict diet and chemotherapy. My weight fluctuated and I looked pretty gaunt. However, as I pushed through each cycle I was feeling better and better. This was a great sign that was confirmed with my scan results. It showed that the tumors had shrunk and hopefully will continue to shrink.
This year has both taught me a lot about life and about what I value most. I have had so many blessings this year. I have been given the chance to fight the cancer through so much love and support. The rest is really up to God.
I have more great news to share - my girlfriend, Sasha, and I are engaged and we are getting married in a small ceremony on September 30th. Our parents are unable to come from Zimbabwe and the Ukraine so our goal is to have a larger celebration with our families and all of you when we are able.
All this wouldn’t be possible without your continued showering of love, friendship and support for which I will be forever grateful. I will keep you all updated and I will keep fighting…cancer chose the wrong person!
With love,
Shaun