Dear Leroy,
Thank you so much for continuing to demonstrate how one lives within a situation like this, one step at a time, both literally and figuratively.

Sent by Joyce | 7:16 AM ET | 03-10-2008

It's a tough situation, for sure, Leroy. But you are wise not to get too far ahead of yourself. Cancer does teach us to live in the moment, to keep putting one foot in front of the other, day after day.

Keep making progress with the walking. So glad you didn't get the spinal headache!

Sent by Marilyn | 7:43 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Good morning Leroy! Not a very uplifting message this morning and I hesitate to offer any comments. Truthfully, we all knew that you had other tumors in your Spinal area, didn't we? So-nothing has changed really, has it?
Your attitude, as always, is wise. You have always been a "Man of Action" and so, you naturally want ACTION. But your last line says it all-"I'll deal with the other stuff when it happens". Please just keep doing what you are doing. Strengthen your body as you can. Please keep your optimism UP and keep amazing us all! I agree that your spine has probably taken as much as it can stand and that you must rest from the invasiveness at present. I am so glad that you are still with us and getting stronger every day. Your great mind is the most valuable asset you have. I LOVE the "meeting of the minds" we have with you each day! Thank you.

Sent by J C R | 7:45 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy,

I am sorry to hear about your results. The location does make it more difficult to access, I have heard of cases using an anterior approach to get to the spine, though. Perhaps they have new methods of delivering the radiation for exactness AND better control.

You just keep on walking....

Sent by Sue Chap | 8:04 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Oh Leroy, so sorry for the ugly news and things you have to think about "might" happen or occurr.

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Laurie...remain strong! :)

Sent by Cristina Gonzalez, Tampa, Florida | 8:08 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Oh, Leroy. I think you're right -- there's not much you can do but focus on your walking, enjoy Laurie and your friends, have a cheesesteak for lunch and a cupcake for dessert, watch a funny movie, make the best of what you have, and know that we are all sending you our love and prayers.

Sent by Brenda | 8:09 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Well, that is sad and sobering news. One day at a time is all you can do. Fight the good fight each day and enjoy the life you have--who really knows what the future will bring? There are certainly hundreds of people reading what you write here that are with you in the battle.

Sent by N.R. | 8:17 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy,
You are doing the only thing which can be done now. You are trying to remain strong, facing the reality of the situation, and dealing with the "what ifs" when they become real.
We are thankful for you honesty. Thankful for opening your heart to us.
PRAYERS, love and May The Grace of God Be With You.
Wanda Amorose

Sent by Wanda Amorose | 8:21 AM ET | 03-10-2008

I'm reaching out from here to there with a gentle hug. Really, all any of us can do is "one day at a time" even though we like to plan way ahead. Some time we can stay with the plan, other times we detour. You may be facing a detour that we all WILL face...and God can lead us through.

Sent by Susan | 8:35 AM ET | 03-10-2008

thats right, Leroy, thats all you can do, one thing at a time. If and i mean IF that time comes when the tumors come back on your spine, there could be some new procedure to deal with those tumors. So, one step at a time. Just like dory in Finding Nemo..."just keep swimming, just keep swimming"
:)

Sent by Jenn | 8:43 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy,

Any words seem small here, you are coping with so much. In my heart and spirit, I feel tears for you, your courage, your kindness, your spirit, and for Laurie, it's all hard stuff to be dealing with. Focusing on the "now" moment is a lesson my dogs are teaching me everyday. (It's not an easy lesson, because I'm a "worrier/thinker/ponderer" of lots of things I really can't change, and I miss out on what could be fun events/moments in the here-and-now. My partner, Virgie, is also better than I am at finding some fun/joy in the moment, I'm watching her too, to learn. So, here's to being in the moment, and focusing on one step at a time. If you ever want a visit by some really fun dogs, (they aren't boisterous, just fun & loving, with a couple of tricks up their paws) just let me know!! :-)

Heartlight,

Virgie & Kim

Sent by Kim & Virgie | 8:51 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy,
I am so sorry that you have to deal with such grim possibilities. You do so with such grace and determination. I hope you find comfort in the many hearts you have touched and the many many friends who are thinking about you and hoping for you.

Sent by Susan | 8:52 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy, Thank you for sharing and for being so honest. I appreciate very much what you do for all of us touched by cancer. I wish you continued progress in your daily activities and positive results from the to-be-planned radiation. You are a truly remarkable person.

Sent by Susie R. from Col, OH | 9:03 AM ET | 03-10-2008

As always, you have it spot on, Leroy. Make progress in the areas that you are able. Deal with the "what ifs" only when they occur in the present.

You have been off of chemo for quite some time it seems. Will there be any options to add that back into your quiver of arrows for the future?

Sent by Sheara | 9:05 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Sometimes it is best just to "say it out loud" so that it is there for all to hear! With that said, it does not suggest nor imply that the fight is over until you say it is over! The options may be limited but they are options nevertheless. When confronted with the reality of your situation, I choose to remain hopeful and optimistic. Call me naive; call me a fool and not a realist but I believe that the human spirit and soul are basically hopeful even in the darkest of nights. Even when faced with our own mortality, there is a reason to be hopeful. Until the tiny flame of hope in my heart has been extinguished, I will remain hopeful for you and Laurie.

My prayers continue.

Sent by Al Cato | 9:10 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy: All you can do is take one second, one minute at a time. Just concentrate on the present. That is what God had given us - who knows what will happen tomorrow. It will take care of itself! Live for NOW. Many, Many Blessings, My friend.

Sent by Joanie, Front Royal, Va | 9:13 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy,
I wish it wasn't so. You are a real hero, you know. You have given hope and a voice to many people, and we are all with you in spirit on this journey. Please let Laurie know we are with her too on this road filled with potholes. God Bless--

Sent by Lisa D. | 9:23 AM ET | 03-10-2008

I'm sorry for the news you and Laurie have received; I know how tough it is to wrap your head around something like that. But working on your walking is a challenge you CAN do something about, so keep at it.

Don't worry about those other things right now ... IF they come, you'll find a way to deal with them, trust me. We've been there (paralysis, incontinence, colostomy) and you're right - definitely not a pretty picture - but human beings are so wonderfully adaptable that it really ends up not being as bad as you might have originally thought. Having my husband here was worth the extra challenges - and we're only dealing with the colostomy now, so progress is possible!

May God bless you and Laurie as you travel this road.

Sent by Dianne in Nevada | 9:30 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy,
Know that I wish I could reach out and hug you and your family and tell you all will be okay. Concntrate in being in the moment and walking. I know it is easier said than done, but as cancer patients that is all we can hope for. Enjoy your family and friends....focus on the love in your life. I wish you peace.

Sent by Miriam | 9:30 AM ET | 03-10-2008

what can we all who suffer do...believe in a higher power, and use our mental strength to get through one more speed bump. You have given me a better understanding of my self. I continue to pray for you.

Sent by Peter, in Colorado | 9:33 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy, I hate this disease and what it does to us. You and Laurie are in my thoughts and prayers. Keep on putting one foot in front of the other! Enjoy the things you can. Thank you for sharing your life and your courage with us.
Charlotte in Rural Ridge, PA

Sent by Charlotte Kewish | 9:43 AM ET | 03-10-2008

We will continue to pray, send you hugs and messages of love and hope. The hard work is up to you! Cancer just sucks, but that ray of hope and that light within will never darken! Your spirit won't let it!

Sent by Laurie Hirth | 9:46 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy, your news really vacuumes (a less rude way of saying 'sucks')and we all wish it weren't so. That being said, there are no elephants in your living room. You are dealing with what is head on, and not refusing to face it, or discuss it. That is a wonderful thing to be modeling to the world at large.
I wish you more and quicker improvement than you expect, and less trouble than you fear. CYH. (consider yourself hugged)

Sent by Nancy K. Clark | 9:49 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy and Laurie,

I agree with everyone, especially Brenda's comment - for today, enjoy that cheesesteak, that cupcake, that funny show. Leave the planning up to the wonderful doctors you've chosen. And know that whatever comes next in your cancer journey, you'll be able to deal with it like you always have - with grace, humor, smarts, and determination.

It's sunny on the Eastern seaboard today! I hope it warms your soul,

Sent by Amy in NJ | 9:50 AM ET | 03-10-2008

I can't say anything better than it's already been said above. I just want to echo the same sentiments and let you know I'm thinking of and praying for you and Laurie today.

Sent by Nichole in FL | 9:52 AM ET | 03-10-2008

I was thinking about you this week-end and it occured to me that this...your blog audience...is a mere fraction of the audiences you prepared for with Nightline and your other jounalistic work. Yet, your impact on this audience is profound, deeply personal, and truly meaningful.

Foe each of us who write back to you there may be thousands of silent readers who find strength and courage from your words.

Your generosity in sharing this journey deserves an award...is there an Emmy for blogs?

Have a peaceful day.

Peggy

Sent by Peggy | 9:54 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy, you have come through some pretty horrific situations so far and the fact that you still have options is very encouraging. Keep up the good work.

Thanks for talking to us.

God bless you Leroy.

Judy

Sent by Judy Voller | 9:56 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Well, if the worst case scenario is not certain, just likely, then work on your walking. That's immediate, and "do-able." I agree that another surgery would be way too exhausting...keep putting one foot in front of the other. So glad you didn't get those awful headaches you'd expected. So sometimes the worst it could be doesn't happen...let's hope that's a sign. Glad to hear from you this morning. You'll be in my thoughts up here in the Pacific Northwest. Sally in Spokane

Sent by Sallyin Spokane | 10:01 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy,

Not exactly the news you wanted to hear, so we take one day at a time and deal with the here and now. I admire you so much and you and Laurie and everyone on this blog and their loved ones are in my daily thoughts and prayers,

Lianne

Sent by Lianne Friedman | 10:02 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy & Laurie
"To live," the poet Emily Dickinson reminds us,"is so startling it leaves little time for anything else."
Your blog reminds each of us to live! Thank you.
Godspeed,
Celia Bandman

Sent by Celia Bandman | 10:04 AM ET | 03-10-2008

There is not much to say to that I guess as you've eloquently said it all. It all just sucks but getting ahead of ourselves won't change a thing so as you say, focus on your walking.

Praying for you both,

xo

Sent by Lori | 10:07 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy, you keep concentrating on walking and, collectively, we all will keep you in our thoughts and positive intentions. The game ain't over yet. You know the worst case now, so there is a best case senario too.

Sent by Pat Z. | 10:13 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy, the whole thing (illness, disability, surgeries, diagnostics and diagnostic results, hospital life, having cancer) seems like a massive challenge; taking it day to day, as you strive to do, at least makes the challenge only one day long. I'm so glad you are sharing your experience of this challenging journey with us, though I doubt it's one you would have chosen to take. May you be well.

Sent by M Wms | 10:21 AM ET | 03-10-2008

leroy, im so sorry for you and laurie. i appreciate your honesty and strength.

Sent by sarah | 10:22 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Well, we can all say "what if" in all our lives. Even those of us w/o cancer. I could die in a car accident today! But I try not to worry about those maybes. So just take each day for what its worth. Everything!

Sent by DiAnn | 10:24 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy,

Simply - you are a STUNNING INSPIRATION.

Sent by Joan P | 10:35 AM ET | 03-10-2008

I'm with you.

Sent by Laurel M. Jones | 10:39 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Big sigh. I wonder if they have any idea about chemo possibly working to shrink those little ratb*st*ds? Sorry if that language is too strong...but who can say anything nice about mets? I hope the angle of the rads is such that it does not weaken or damage anything else...I hope they have a nice clear view to take a shot at them. And you keep on walking. I'm praying for you but it's more like I am holding you in my thoughts and hoping for you.

Sent by Alycia Keating | 10:44 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy,

Yes, we learn to play with the cards we are dealt. I started active chemotherapy again last week, and still feel "mildly crappy." I am sure I am in better shape than you are, poor dear, but I figured I could lie around at home waiting to feel 100%, realizing that may not happen for a long time, or I could come to my non-strenuous job and get on with life. So, here I am at my desk, feeling mildly crappy, but functioning.

You and I are blessed with work environments that are friendly towards us and our treatments. For this, we thank God. We also thank God for all the support of friends, family, and co-workers.

I have learned to tell people of little things they can do for me, just so they have something tangible to do. I now have enough lilac-scented soap to last for years, I think! If somebody asks what they can do, give them something. It doesn't have to be big, but it will make them feel better!

Sent by Ruth from Virginia | 10:46 AM ET | 03-10-2008

One step at a time, one day at a time.

Sent by Lucy Groh | 11:09 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy,
Dr. Spencer Johnson wrote a wonderful short book entitled, THE PRESENT. One key message is you can enhance your life by knowing when it is best to keep your focus on today and not let yourself think about the past or the future.

For 17 years I've been living with a type of lymphoma with no known cures. I am currently in remission, but I've had seven recurrences. I've been out of treatment for 4 months now and will likely need treatment again, someday.

As a patient, I wanted to focus on today and not worry about tomorrow long before I figured out how I could do that. Here's the message of hope: I did learn techniques that work for me. And there are people that can help you find techniques that work for you. It's worth the effort because worry about tomorrow can steal joy from today.
With hope,
Wendy S. Harpham, MD www.wendyharpham.com

Sent by Wendy S. Harpham, MD | 11:27 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy, My heart goes out to you. I'll say an extra prayer for you tonight.

Sent by Roxi | 11:34 AM ET | 03-10-2008

I can't help but say that the expression I see much of today in these messages leaves me surprised and ashamed. What do the words "Cancer sucks" have to do with compassion, and particularly used in the same sentences with thoughts of prayer, healing, and love. What kind of descriptive English is this? Rather crude I believe! We are, after all, writing to Leroy, who is a Master of the proper use of language.

Sent by J C R | 11:44 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Good Morning Leroy, Laurie and All,

Leroy, I'm sorry to hear your news and certainly the possible scenario is very sobering. But that doesn't take into considration your determination to outride these bad guys! Stick to your guns Leroy and FIRE! Keep walking, find some mischief to get into and keep loving Laurie!

Laurie, Hang tough and keep after Leroy to do his exercises. Bribe him with cupcakes! Chocolate chip cookies work with Tom when he gets off track.

To All, I know that we all are sharing Leroy's journey and the path through Cancer World is certainly not an easy one. But we are here for each other and thats the way it should be.
God Bless!!

Eileen Pruyne
Charlotte, NC.

Sent by Eileen Pruyne | 11:55 AM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy: So sorry it has come to this point. Wishing you Peace no matter what.

Nikki

Sent by Nikki | 12:05 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Aahhh, Leroy.It just isn't fair.

You're doing all anyone could do, facing reality squarely -- then trying to focus on just the small segment before you today, doing what you can. Recognizing what you have control of and trying to let go of the rest. Years ago, I used to attend AlAnon meetings, and they had a saying (which I can only paraphrase): Regrets about the past or fears of what may happen in the future will only rob the present of its richness.

I hope and pray with all my heart that the "worst case scenario" never materializes. But I have known a couple of people who were paralyzed and incontinent yet their beautiful spirits and great minds were still present.

Your courage and raw honesty are a daily inspiration.So many of us are holding you in our hearts right now.

Sent by Doris | 12:08 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy,

I'm sure I speak for everyone on this blog when I say I wish I could do more than write every day.

Sometimes people want more attention and sometimes they don't. I'm certainly respectful of your preferences, but if you'd like to be surrounded by love and good wishes, I kind of wish there could be a Leroy Sievers Day. I think it would be a huge gathering.

Let us know if that appeals or not.

Sent by Diana Kitch | 12:19 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Thanks for being real Leroy. In wrestling with my own life with cancer, I've recently embraced the work and wisdom of Miriam Greenspan, in her book 'Healing Through the Dark Emotions, The wisdom of grief, fear, and despair'. I must give credit to The Sun Magazine for running an interview with her in their January '08 edition (available online).

She ends the book's intro with these words:

For those who desperately need a way to feel more hopeful, resilient and joyful, take heart! The emotions that appear to afflict us can be the vehicles of our liberation from suffering. Experiencing our grief, fear and despair in a new light, we renew our capacities for gratitude, joy and faith. We grow in courage and compassion. We approach the world with less fear and more wonder. We have more energy for changing the things that matter. These gifts can only be found when we are unafraid to dance the dance of dark emotions in our lives. Let's dance."

Dance on!

Sent by Joan S. | 12:20 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy,
In two words "CANCER SUCKS" All our cases are different but we are all paying our dues. My husband is now at a point where he cannot leave the house anymore because of side effect of this new chemo drug he is on. He has constant diarrhea. He says he feels like a prisoner, aside from being dehydrated and tired. I'm praying for all of us.

Sent by Sasha | 12:36 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy,

Just as you have done in the past, keep taking small but progressive steps forward. Concentrate on today and now, and as Wendy said above, find the joy and little pleasures in today. My thoughts are with you.

Dave

Sent by Dave | 12:37 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy,
The weapons cache is not as empty as you may think. From my own experience with spine eating cancer, the targeted therapies are working wonders for many folks. You and you docs should be (and probably are) looking at the VEGF and mTor class of drugs. Sunitinib (a VEGF inhibitor)has given me two years of stable disease following radiation of the largest mets on my spine.

New drugs and therapies are comming out at a steady pace. There are even vaccines being developed and tested in clinical trials. So muster your courage, brave the radiation and pick your next weapon against this insidious beast. Good luck and God bless!

Sent by Mike Winner | 12:45 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy and Laurie

My husband had his first clean scan after pancreatic cancer. That is good news, of course, and we hope it continues. But I don't think that I will ever stop worrying about his cancer returning. My prayers and good wishes are with you both and everyone else that has the deal with The Beast.

Sent by Donna in Virginia | 12:52 PM ET | 03-10-2008

You are a trooper Leroy. You definately lead by example. God Bless you in your quest.

Sent by Robert Sheehan | 1:26 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Keep up the strength and find enjoyment where you can. Spring is coming! Try to work on your walking so that you can walk in the sun again!

After today's pt treat yourself to something.

Sent by Liz L. | 1:27 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy- I am thinking about you and Laurie, and just wanted to put in my warm thoughts of you in this difficult time. You are an inspiration to all of us each any every day- I know this is not your goal but you just naturally do it. We are all thinking of you.

Sent by linda h. | 1:36 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy,

Thank you for sharing your experiences. You give me strength to face my own ordeal. My prayers are with you. Good luck!

Sent by Bill | 1:44 PM ET | 03-10-2008

We all hope we will be one of the few to hear the words "NED" or "clean scan". It's why I'm doing chemo, again. I heard those words almost 2 years ago and as my oncologist says, there is ALWAYS hope. Maybe not much, sometimes, but it is always there. There are doctors who would never have predicted you would still be here, especially after all you have gone through. Your strength is amazing.

Sent by Marcia | 2:28 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Hi Leroy, Thank you for today's comments. Sobering, scary, that's the way life is. No matter what the outcome, love is all around you. Enjoy today. Try to stay in the present. Best wishes.

Sent by Paulette | 3:07 PM ET | 03-10-2008

To Mike Winner:

THANK YOU for your hopeful message - you're living proof that the weapons cache may indeed not be empty for Leroy.

And to Leroy, Laurie and Leroy's fantastic medical team, I don't know what else to say but:

Still lifting!

Sent by Janice J. , Los Angeles | 3:08 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy, would you mind telling us at what level your tumors are--T-4? L-1?

As ever, we are with you.

Sent by glenda | 3:11 PM ET | 03-10-2008

I have been reading your bog for some time now and I am amazed and inspired by your courage and determanation. You have probably have had many people tell you about alternative treatment that they have used and read about. To be honest I have been reluctant to post this information because of this. However, I have seen progress and have heard and meet people who have kicked cancer using this.. 714X created by a doctor in Canada. You can find inforamtion on the internet and by researching information on Billy Best. Anyway the basic premis of 714X is it feeds the lymph, which cancer depilitates. My father, who died from a brain hemorage because of low platlet count (caused by chemo, was doing amazing after just one month of use.... I could go on and on with what happened to him and why he used it but I felt that it was time to write you about this.

Sent by Vicky | 3:14 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy, you are going to nuke the begeezes out of the cancer in your spine and go on your merry way. I have heard many happy stories regarding the effectiveness of radiation against bone mets. No reason you can't be one of them.

Left foot, right foot, we're with you all the way!

Sent by Karen D. | 4:06 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy,
I am Mary Oettinger's cousin, and she told me about you. I remember you from San Marino days. I want you to know that I am praying for you.

Sent by Julia McMillan Fallon | 4:21 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy,
Hang in there. Do the radiation. It may buy you the time for a new better therapy that will come out in the interum.

You are in our prayers.

Sent by Marcy in NJ | 4:28 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Can't think of a bloody thing to say other than my prayers are still coming your way. I wish there was more.

Sent by Sharon | 5:19 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy, I'm paging through all these wonderful messages and everyone has said it better--but I'll add to their chorus: I'm really sorry and I hope you catch a break. You have been open and honest throughout this ordeal and I deeply appreciate that. You must be a wonderful man.

Sent by salee | 5:26 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy,
I have several mets to my spine and my biggest fear is paralysis. As a PT, I have treated many stage IV patients who have faced difficult challanges. I think sometimes you have to face your fear and acknowledge it. Then know that there will be many people there to help you as you need it, just as there has been all along this journey. When you face it, then you can enjoy and live this day. In the long run, that is all any of us have for sure--today. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I know you will be able to meet all challanges. You are very strong.
Take care,
Mary Cannon

Sent by Mary Cannon | 5:39 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy,
Today your message breaks my heart, not only for you but for Laurie. I have been in her shoes and I can tell you it is also hard for her to keep walking.
Sasha, I have also stood in your shoes. I only wish there was a way to help--you and your husband will be in my prayers. And you know, each day when I talk to Leon, I ask him to talk to God personally about my problems. I tell him to ask God to take care of our boys--He may have extra "pull" since he is there at God's side now. Almost a year and I still miss him so much.
I HATE cancer. Prayers to all, Jane

Sent by Jane from AR | 5:52 PM ET | 03-10-2008

I've been reading everyday and today was too close to home, my tumor started pressing on my spine a few weeks ago. There is nothing tht can be done at this stage, I'm just receiving pallative care, which means make you comfortable until you die. At 54 I'm wearing depends and feel like someone has a voodoo doll out there that pins are being stuck in at any location they like. You have gone through so much already, I don't know how you keep up the fight, I'm trying but its getting real hard these days to even keep going. My grandkids are the only thing I hang on for, one day at a time. If the radiation doesn't do it for you and I hope it does, keep in mind there are a lot of us out here praying for you. Hang in there, Leroy.

Sent by mary fitzpatrick | 6:14 PM ET | 03-10-2008

I don't blame you one itty bitty bit for not 'being more excited' etc. Being a cancer patient is the hardest work ever and you have been doing it for a long time. Baby steps, baby steps, that's the way to climb uphill. Never mind the pom-pom waving, that's what we do on the side-lines, and in our hearts. You answer to no one, honey, just be yourself. I agree, hospitals are the least comfortable place to be, any hospital is practically another planet and the whole thing requires finesse (like take-out !!) about everything. Keep your feisty self handy, but whine all you want. And if you need an 'external hard drive' version of feisty self, just call on us, your readers and co-conspirators. We be feisty with you, for you, about you. I am sending all good wishes, and finesse!

Sent by Susanne A. Barkan | 6:26 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy and Laurie,
Keep walking and enjoy each day. You are in my thoughts and prayers every day. With care.

Sent by anne lumberger | 7:48 PM ET | 03-10-2008

- CANCER SUCKS -
That really does sum things up!!!! Try to keep your chin up and know that so many are with you and praying for you.

Sent by Deb from Michigan | 7:55 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy, I am so sorry to hear your news today. You have remained so strong and positive through the past couple years. I think you have been an inspiration to everyone who has faithfully come each day to read your news. You have given each of us a ray of hope in our lives too. I truly hope you realize the extent to which you have touched our lives. You and Laurie are in my prayers always.

Sent by Susan Issolah | 8:10 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Thinking of you today and praying for you. Peace always....

Sent by Julie | 8:34 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy-
Sending prayers and hugs and love.

Sent by Kate | 9:15 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Leroy, you know we're pulling for you (pardon some of us who yell). You've got great support in your medical team. You're right to deal with what's right in front of you. Don't you know you are showing a lot of us how to face this damn stuff. I might have to face the piper down the road and will not forget your experiences.

Sent by Dorothy - Los Angeles | 10:21 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Dear Leroy,
Thank you so, so much for your willingness to share the truth about your life with cancer. I hope someday your blog can be compiled in a book so it may be shared for many years to come. There are so many unsuspecting souls who have no idea that they too may be facing the world of cancer. Please know that you continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
Janie in Ky
Dx: 1/05

Sent by Janie Sears | 11:16 PM ET | 03-10-2008

dear leroy - and we keep praying for you - and maybe that miracle will happen!love, jan

Sent by januice goldberg white | 11:16 PM ET | 03-10-2008

Hi Leroy, I wish you the best...You have been my champion...I have survived breast cancer...The last three years. Today is Today...Forget One Day at a time! The birds are singing. You are in my prayers. Take your pain medicine. The Creator will care for you, Getty

Sent by Huguette Johnston | 12:57 AM ET | 03-11-2008

Sorry to hear it but sending you and Laurie good vibes and prayers.

Sent by Lisa Lindstrom | 2:22 AM ET | 03-11-2008

Hey Leroy...
Yikes. Rough day. I vote with the "stay present" squad. As for paralysis and incontinence... I used to think that would be the worst thing in the world. Back in much younger days...I remember thinking incontinence would be unbearable. But you know what? Now that we're older, jeez louise it's not the end of the world. If I get a bad cold and have a coughing jag, I find that I pee a teensy bit. I was mortified the first time it happened... until a half dozen of my over-50 friends said "hey... on occasion... it happens." Okay, yeah... maybe severe sneezing pee is a bit of a stretch from totally incontinent. But... WTF. We all lose a little something with age. The key is to find our grace. And from what I've seen of you from the blog so far... you have exhibited the most amazing kind of grace and strength. And when those run out, you have the wisdom to reach out for help. What a guy.

Hang in there. Best to your Laurie also.

xo, Rebecca

Sent by Rebecca Corral | 2:53 AM ET | 03-11-2008

Leroy and Laurie, adding to the group sending supportive energy your way. Nancy C Clark said it all so well.

Sent by Lou Ann Caywood | 7:06 AM ET | 03-11-2008

I think you're right, Leroy. You figure out what you have control over and just focus on that. Let go of the rest; that's all you can do. You're in my prayers.

Sent by Gyla | 12:30 PM ET | 03-11-2008

Leroy, please let me warn you about the drs doing any radiation around the stomach. It's not good. I won't go into the details but be sure to ask lots of questions as to the side effects. Good Luck and I will be praying for you.

Sent by Cindy | 5:23 AM ET | 03-12-2008