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I just got back from an unexpected week's stay in the hospital. It isn't good news. I'm still capable of independent living for now. That may likely change in the future. I wish I could share more but it's kind of tough.
You aren't obliged to tell us, now or in the future, but whatever it might be, you'll always have your friends here...our thoughts and prayers. You have mine already.
What Doc said. Take it one day at a time. That is all we can do. 
Yes, what Doc said. Just look after yourself....;)
I am planning my care, resources for help, and how I can best maintain independent living. I have in-law family members who care for me and the extended help I get from the VA. I am a veteran and worked for the VA for 10+ years.
The sad part for me is I still feel fairly young I was just 68 this year. On the happier side there is at least some hope that quality of life and the years extended possibly.
Looking at it from here, your support net sounds very good; financially you have the huge plus of the VA, which you've earned and deserve to really lessen the financial burden. Thank you from the heart for your service.
If you can stick to the happier side, and keep up your nutrition and some mild activity, you'll be doing very good things for yourself.
I don't know if you're spiritual or religious, and I'm neither asking nor urging, but support on that front if you are, can contribute to your wellbeing as well.
Also, maintain good contact with your treatment team...if you're feeling down, or issues like pain aren't being adequately addressed, don't hesitate to speak up. Those are major quality of life issues, and your Doctors will want to help.
I know exactly where you're at, I am the same way. After 22 years military service a problem I developed in 1974 with a disc in my back rupturing turned out to be from degenerative spinal arthritis which has progressively gotten worse over the years. The VA told me I had to stop working in 2005 and put me at 100% disability, I developed other problems from the arthritis too that I have live with.
Hang in there BigDogBigFeet! We just have to learn to cope with things as they go on, I hope you can too! Prayers your way!
Hey BigDog! I hope you recover fully and keep your freedom! 
Ya thanks everyone. Today is first day of radiation treatment surgery is not possible.
My very best wishes to you BigDogBigFeet. As a survivor myself, diagnosed with 1 primary then 4 secondary Cancers, i am an example of things that look bleak, but can have a different outcome. Eat as much as you can, when you can. ( I Know you will not feel like eating after radiation, But it does help in your struggle) Keep your mind Strong, It is obvious you have friends here, take it one step at a time.
Very sorry to hear this...
Your help and feedback through the years have been immensely valuable. So much so that we now expect it. 😉
The only solution here is for you to get and stay well.
Everyone at Stardock is sending well wishes, BigDogBigFeet.
Sean Drohan
Stardock Product Lifecycle Manager
Day 2 Radiation completed. I discovered that everybody wants me now. Lots of people calling for medical appointments with me. I can't keep track of them all. They had me scheduled at 9:45am for Radiation Oncology treatment which lasts for 1/2hour minimum and without my knowing it Physical Therapy at 10:00am. I had asked in Radiation Treatment if I had a PT appointment I still needed to make and was told no.
I am getting a large appointment book today so I can organize this mess.
Maybe they have someone who can coordinate which appointments or consultations and treatments can be clumped together so you aren't traveling back and forth more than you must?
Had radiation treatment back in 2010.
Keep as positive as you can
Not sure if it is the same in your neck of the woods, but ask if you can have an Oncology Nurse as your point of contact, in the UK we have one allocated for each patient, she should be able to help you organising all that is coming your way with appointments etc..
Day 3 Radiation Treatment. I also went to Physical Therapy to cancel those couple of appointments (I am too busy with other appointments for the care I would receive there to be of much value). I also went to my Primary Care for some blood work labs they wanted and a nursing visit. I put my new large size daily weekly planner to use managing appointments and notes.
Day 4 Radiation Treatment. I also spoke with a nutritionist regarding getting healthy levels of protein and calories in me. I have swallowing challenges and I can consume liquids; solids are still a no go. The radiation treatment is directed at shrinking the mass in my esophagus to improve my swallowing. I spoke with the radiation physicians, and they said I may see more of them after this initial course of treatment but next will be chemo. More phone calls with follow-up from my primary care team regarding blood labs. I am a busy guy these days. I thought I had retired. sheesh.
Prayers BigDog, Also thank you for your service as i have served as well. Other members here gave some good advice so you always have a home here. We will listen when others won't. Main thing is to just take care of yourself, we will still be here.
There's an app called Loóna that I use almost nightly because it helps me relax my mind, to calm my thoughts - racing as they almost always are - and if you're so inclined, you might find worlds of mental comfort in the app. Warm wishes and lots of love. ♥
You've got this.
Ok BigDogBigFeet, if liquids are ok there are plenty of drinkable supplements that can help you stay strong, Protein Shakes in just about every flavour and other drinkables high in Fat. Come on Fella, you can do this, I know it is hard but keep your chin up, You have mates here so keep going.
Day 5 Radiation Treatment. This was on Friday. Went easily today. No extra appointments. Almost like going thru the drive-through.
Weekend lots of rest as I'm getting tired more quickly.
Day 6 Radiation Treatment. Went easily again. Medical team took a little extra time to ensure precision. I will have one or two errands today. More rest later today.
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