While i have not commented in awhile, I follow along daily and send prayers for comfort your way. Today's message is so raw with honesty. Thank you for continuing to rise each day and face the beast with courage and determination. I know it has not been easy, but I support and commend you on your determination and honesty. Here is wishing for a painless day with the spring sunshine on your face and nothing but love.

Sent by Karen | 7:18 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy, There should be A LOT of satisfaction in that! I know you have paid a very high price but I believe that you are still alive only because you did not give up and did not let your doctors give up on you either.

Despite your losses, your life continues to have real meaning to many people. You are making valuable contributions to the cancer community at large and to the medical community's understanding of what patients experience and need from them.

My own experiences as a cancer caretaker and a nurse have taught me that there is no such thing as "False Hope".

Have a good day!

Sent by Marilyn | 7:19 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy, THanks for that synopsis because I read you every day but I can't keep up - between yours and mine I get confused. My NSCLC is kicking my brain and my liver, now. Lung tumor much better. Go figure.
Have last WBR today and I'm not seeing much of a difference. Was terrified of it after all the horror stories. Have had two SRS procedures prior. Novalis.
Now my liver has extensive involvement. Back on chemo after WBR.

I tell you all this because you know what? It ain't over 'til the fat lady sings. I sure need to lose a few pounds. Maybe you did too. I don't want to die healthy, so I'm fighting the fight just like you. I ACCEPT this condition but i'm going to kick some ass too, just like you are. Cancer will be tough to get me, I made up my mind.

With you each step of the way. Joanne

Sent by Joanne Wilkerson-Burke | 7:25 AM ET | 04-14-2008

You are an inspiration to many. I read your blog daily and continue to be amazed at your courage. Keep up the good fight!

Sent by Carol | 7:39 AM ET | 04-14-2008

I wish that I had words of wisdom or something philosophical to say but I don't! What I do say is that you've inspired us, touched us, amused us, made us sad, made us happy with news of some small victories but most of all, you've made us better people by having you in our lives. This is not insignificant and I hope you recognize this!!!

I don't have the answers as to why you must suffer in spite of the courageous battles you've fought to erradicate your cancer. I choose to believe that there is a purpose to all of this. My belief is that while you've suffered much and lost many abilities through this fight that you have also gained and contributed so much to so many!! Would you give all of this up if you could go back to your "old normal before cancer"? Like most of us, the answer would be a resounding "yes"! Given that this is not going to happen, your daily blog allows us all to "walk along with you on your journey" and we are blessed because you allow it. Take a moment to reflect and see what a difference you've made in our lives. I hope that this will warm your heart!

Continuing prayers each day for you and Laurie.

Sent by Al Cato | 7:40 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy,
No one could say that you haven't put up the most gallant of fights. You have done everything possible to make this cancer work at getting you. I so admire you and your determination. For all of us out there fighting the good fight you are out ahead marching on. I can feel your frustration and the anxiety and I hope that today will be a day with some relief, something to make you smile. Take care,

Sent by Cindy | 7:57 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Dear Leroy,
The spirit in me honors the spirit in you. After reading some of Laurie's posts I also honor her strength, courage and dignity. In the end the cancer WILL win the war, but you gave it a run for it's money my friend and as I tell my husband, "It's not over yet" KEEP FIGHTING!

As always, prayers to all.

Sent by Sasha | 7:59 AM ET | 04-14-2008

I think, adapting to change, significant life altering change is never ever easy. You sound angry and personally I don't blame you. I would be to if I couldn't do what I normally can do.

The realization is, the longer you live the more you have to put up with change. It isn't always good, nor beneficial, just something we have to do.

Hang in there Leroy, the LA (Leroy's army) is behind you.

Sent by Sue Chap | 8:02 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy, keep your head up. I may not write as often as I used to, but those are for my own personal reasons (it gets tough, haing just lost my dad), but I you are in my thoughts and prayers EVERYDAY. I think of you often and wish you well :) Continue to stay strong and smile, smile lots! (Hello to Laurie as well) With much love, Cristina

Sent by Cristina Gonzalez, Tampa, FL | 8:23 AM ET | 04-14-2008

So good to hear your voice again! Thank you for your forthrightness and honesty about your struggles. Don't let the b*st*rd win. FIGHT and keep fighting. You may be "point man" in this battle, but you've got a lot of backup in LA (thanks, Sue Chap).

Sent by Kathryn | 8:29 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Maybe you don't have to think of it as "in the end the cancer will get you" but in the end death will get you, as it does all of us. The cancer has NOT gotten you, even if it causes your death, because you have a spirit that has never given in or refused to take on the next tough battle to have more good time in your life, even when it is accompanied by some lasting physical problems.

And you know, I have several lasting and life-altering physical problems from my battle and I don't know if I will be "gotten" by cancer or something else (the cancer so far appears to be gone) and that makes ME angry too sometimes. Nothing wrong with being angry about all this. But at least your fight has given you this day to be angry in.

And, as others have said, you are such an inspiration and model to all the rest of us. I hope you do realize how huge an effect you have that way.

Sent by N.R. | 8:37 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Dear Leroy - Thank you for describing things,even painful things, clearly and honestly. I think that's what journalists and decent human beings do.

Sent by Ana | 8:39 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Good morning, Leroy,

You certainly have been doing some serious thinking and getting your anger up - THAT IS A GOOD THING. You definitely are NOT one of those people who say oh well, this is what he has put on my shoulders and I am strong enough to accept it - you fight with every breath that you have. THIS WAS NOT PART OF YOUR LIFE'S PLAN - you were too busy for this and you are fighting so hard. You know that we are praying for you to win or to at least keep going in some semblance of the normal life that you are fighting to retrief. Take care and keep fighting - we all love you and pray for you.

Jan

Sent by Janice Goldberg White | 8:40 AM ET | 04-14-2008

I read everyday; but don't comment much. You are such an inspiration and motivation to me. Cancer changed you. It changes all of us through you, too. Prayers for some peace today.

Sent by Allison | 8:42 AM ET | 04-14-2008

We kinda "slept in" this morning but NPR, which is our alarm clock, woke us up with the sound of your voice! What a pleasant way to wake up to this new week. Sounds as if we almost have our ole Leroy back. Wonderful! Don't even think about the "what ifs" and just keep plugging along the way you have been. Don't keep trying to skip to the end of the book, ok?
We just received an email from our Nephew and Niece who are over in Thailand doing Missionary work and it is so interesting to hear how life is over there and the work they are attempting to do.
Our thoughts are with you and Laurie ~ begin another week of hard work and love of life!

Sent by J C R | 8:44 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy read this morning's post and thought what a load of procedures and outcomes to lead up to today. But you have a today and if driving a car isn't part of it, get angry and let it go. You have bigger fish to fry.

Sent by Pat Z. | 9:09 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Hi Leroy. You speak for all of us. You are our voice for the words that we want to speak but, find difficult to say or write. Thank you.

Sent by Carolyn Mohaupt | 9:10 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy,
You must have heard about the Kanzius machine from 60 Minutes last night? It always breaks my heart to hear the side effects of the cancer treatments you experience, but there is hope now, the Kanzius machine. i pray that you will be the first to be tested on.

Sent by helen | 9:19 AM ET | 04-14-2008

If I may, I would like to tell Jan "AMEN!". As someone with stage IV lung cancer I say that is what makes me so mad. THIS IS NOT PART OF MY LIFE'S PLAN!. I feel like I use to in charge of what was going to happen next in my life , and now it is like the cancer has pervaded every aspect of my life and "it" has to be considered when ever I make plans for my future. Well I'll be damned if I do that. I say " GO ahead and try Cancer..it's you against me ,,,and if we fight, I am going to win!

Sent by Theresa Lovin | 9:22 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy, Like JCR my husband and I slept in late, were having our morning coffee/tea, and bantering along with the NPR radio stories. Then we heard your voice and went silent. Just knowing that you felt strong enough to record this segment is good news. We are both pulling for you as best we can.

I like JCR's line about not skipping to the end of the book. I had a clean checkup last week, and almost came to tears. For the first time I saw the words "no evidence of disease" in black and white on the radiologist's report. When starting out two years ago with a stage IV OvCa dx, I didn't think this would ever be possible. I have to credit the positive can-do mental outlook from participating in your blog for nearly two years, along with modern medical science. I really don't think I would have been as consistent in looking forward without having this wonderful community where we carry each other to a better place. Thank you, Leroy, Laurie, NPR, and all.

Sent by Sheara | 9:37 AM ET | 04-14-2008

It was so great to hear your voice this morning over the radio! Just hearing you put a big smile on my face. It is impressive in an odd way, isn't it, when you do an actual recap of the procedures you've been through - and you didn't even mention all of them. I hope it helps you to realize what tough stock you are made of. Hats off to you, and to all of us, for making it this far.

Sent by Gretchen Hoag | 9:39 AM ET | 04-14-2008

My dear Leroy,
Yes Cancer has changed your life in some negative ways....loosing somethings that you were able to do before. We all that are in this fight have also lost, but I want to say to you is you can look at this as a glass half empty or half full. I choose to look at my cancer fight as half full. I lost the ability to work, my husband (he couldn't take the pain of my cancer) and the ability to do a lot of things. I have found that cancer has given me lots of gifts too. I have found strenght that I have a voice now. My adult daughters are closer to me now than ever. I can not sweat the small stuff and enjoy simple pleasure as the smell of honeysuckle in the air and the wind on my face. Cancer brought forward my true friends who have loved me on bad hair days and no hair days.
So yes Cancer has changed your life..it has given you a forum to connect with all of us who look forward to reading or hearing your voice. It has given us hope and tears...Cheers to you Leroy, you are a fighter and we love you.

Sent by KIKI | 9:40 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Always in our thoughts and prayers, Leroy and Laurie.

Sent by Amy in NJ | 9:44 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy: I missed Morning Edition this morning though I did catch the news and some other material (would much rather have listened to you, frankly). As always, my thoughts and prayers are with you and Laurie. Such courage and dignity in both of you is inspiring; it's hard to stay in "a mood" (if I am in one) after reading your blog posting.
Sandra Yudilevich

Sent by Sandra Yudilevich | 9:51 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy:

I hope you know what a service you perform each day as you so authentically tell the world what is going on with you. Your rollercoaster ride - not any fun at all - being documented by you on this almost-daily basis, is so helpful in describing what actually happens to us when we confront this evil menace called colorectal cancer.

Watching your travails strikes me with some personal guilt, and, at the same time, I'm fascinated, inspired, and heartened by being a bystander in your journey. Thanks!

I'm a five-year plus NED "person". I'm not really comfortable with the term "survivor", so I'm reluctant to use that word.

On the same note, I've been looking for appropriate synonyms for this word that makes me so uncomfortable (survivor). Following is what the online thesaurus says: "debris, food, leavings, legacy, oddments, remainder, remnants, residue, scraps, surplus, survivor, trash."

Perhaps I can personally substitute "trash", "debris", or "remainder" for the ill-informed term "survivor"?

Therefore, this is me - a remainder of stage III colon cancer.

Please, please never stop sharing with us. Your daily reports are appreciated beyond any measure we'll ever know.

My very best to you,
Erika Hanson Brown
Denver, CO USA

Sent by Erika Hanson Brown | 9:54 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Great to hear your voice this morning. Sitting here with my broken leg, and have been angry about my limitations too. Few people talk about how emotionally crippling a disability can be--even a temporary one. Sending you e-strength and fortitude.

Sent by Deena K | 9:57 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy,

You are still in my prayers! Continue to take it slow and don't forget Jesus still provides!
My heart goes out to you.

Sent by Rita | 9:58 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy I understand so much of what you are saying. Keeping up the feeling of winning even in the face of grueling side effects and the relentlessness of the cancer is imperative to finding something good and worthwhile in each day. I have been fighting metastatic triple negative breast cancer which recurred in June 2006(first go round was 2003-2004). I have lost my hair twice since 2003 and will lose it again soon, but that is absolutely nothing compared to the other side effects. Losing your hair doesn't hurt and I gave up my vanity a long time ago. I lie in bed hoping I won't start coughing so fitfully that I will vomit or feel like I am suffocating...there are many more difficult and unpleasant experiences ...., but even though I know cancer will most likely take my life in the next 6-8 months or so, I will not give up. I have four beautiful children who I intend to enjoy as thoroughly as possible, even while sending them into the world equiped with resources to deal with life's unfairness. We just keep going, hoping each day will be a little easier but we will accomadate it if is not...and find a way to get up and fight again....I am beginning to feel like I am channeling Winston Churchill, permanently.

Sent by Andrea Angell | 9:58 AM ET | 04-14-2008

My only brother took his life in February ago after fighting depression for 20 years. I've been grieving pretty hard for the past two months. So when I heard Leroy's voice for the first time on the radio this morning after an absence of six months, I felt those familiar pangs of grief --- Leroy's not long for this world, I told myself. But as I listened to his report, I also felt energized and inspired by his determination to fight the cancer that's trying to kill him. Thanks, Leroy, for the courage and honesty you've shown all of us.

Sent by Mike Fitzgerald | 10:06 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy,
I just want to thank you for sharing your story with us. My dad is going to similar struggles to yours and doesn't talk about what he is going through. Reading your posts everyday makes me feel closer to him and I am rooting for you both.
As a journalist, you are a communicator and your words have such power. Your words are your most powerful weapon now when your body is not so powerful. I am sure there are days when you are just tired of talking about cancer... but you do. Thank you for talking.

Sent by Cathryn | 10:12 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Life is never the same after cancer enters into it. Keep kicking, Leroy - all of us are kicking with you.

Sent by Tina from Alton IL | 10:15 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Dearest Leroy,

I don't know how much consolation it is, coming from me, but you've put up a heck of a fight! I know there have been dark days and so much pain, and why must good people suffer so? I don't understand, and I can relate to your feelings of frustration and anger. I have no words of wisdom, only that I continue to think of you daily, and pray for you and Laurie. You're always in my heart and thoughts.

Sent by Connie | 10:23 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy,
Do you know that I miss checking my computer each morning, on the weekends, to see what you have to say to "us".
While I am sure, many days you do "get mad", and "sick" of it all. Yet for all that fighting spirit of yours, the determination to continue fighting to the bitter end is "something" else.
Like the comment above........it ain't over until the fat lady sings".
Thank you so much for everything.
Prayers, Blessings and May The Grace of God Be With You.
Wanda Amorose

Sent by Wanda Amorose | 10:32 AM ET | 04-14-2008

I read you every day. You have had such a positive impact on so very many people! What a wonderful thing. I hope this amazing blog brings you comfort. You articulate the struggles, defeats and triumphs that many of us cannot. You have been through so much; you have such a strong spirit.

Ann Stern

Sent by Ann Stern | 10:38 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Morning Leroy
I certainly don't "know" your pain but I "feel" your pain. I absorb everything you share and ponder over the thoughts throughout my day.I pray if my ca leads me on a path, such as yours, I too will have the strength to endure as you have. That I can stay strong in dealing with the "losses" that cancer affords us. Trying "to be in the moment", I also can't help but wonder sometimes what cancer has in store for me...what "losses" I will acquire..what life threatening symptoms I will have to face, then I restore myself back to the moment where I believe I will not allow this disease to rob me of peace.
I am going to go and hang the laundry out in this beautiful breezy, sunny day and smile for what I am right now.....Thank you Leroy for you and who you are and helping me to appreciate all that I am.
May you find some comfort in your day
Hugs for both you and Laurie
Pam

Sent by Pam Stickney | 11:12 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Dear Leroy
I woke this morning feeling sad and discouraged. I lost my job at the end of January, while I was still undergoing radiation for breast cancer. I look every day I am home. I go on job interviews that make me feel like an imposter.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I will see if I can listen to you online.

Sent by Dianne (DC) | 11:19 AM ET | 04-14-2008

See if you can get the DVD called "Crazy, Sexy Cancer." There is hope. Diet is a major help. You have got to alkalize your blood! Please, all of you suffering from cancer, please watch this and listen carefully. I had stage 4 melanoma and I completely changed my diet to be very alkalizing and I am CANCER FREE.

Sent by Diane | 11:26 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Hang in there Dianne (DC) . With Leroy's Army or the LA as Sue puts is with you in prayer now. The right position will show up soon. Imagine, Leroy's voice back on the radio! Wonderful! Don't overdo it tho, Leroy!

Sent by Lucy | 11:39 AM ET | 04-14-2008

As caregiver and companion through my husband's cancer fight, I have learned one true thing. Every one must make their own choices, how to fight and how to live. My husband fought hard with treatment and now fights hard without treatment. I get very annoyed with people who criticize or second guess these choices. Only those suffering have the right to chose what is best for them. Regardless of treatment outcomes, the only real choice is to live proud and strong every day to the last.

Sent by Ricci | 11:46 AM ET | 04-14-2008

The post today says very thing about the battle. But, each day the Lord brings something to be thankful for we just have to look for it. I saw the post from Ruth, great news. May the Lord shine his grace on us.

Sent by Hal | 11:49 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy,

I haven't much to say this morning, except that I am - as always - in awe of your courage and honesty. With your blog, you have created a manual for how to do cancer. I am so appreciative and I know your guidance has deeply affected and helped many.

Blessings.

Sent by Diana Kitch | 11:56 AM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy, Good to hear your voice on NPR this morning! You sounded strong.

Sent by Marilyn | 12:04 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Dear Leroy:
I, too, wonder daily during my morning routine, where's Leroy? What's happened? I have never written before, but I know how lonely having cancer is. I was so glad to hear your voice this morning. I am sorry for the pain you have been through these past 6 months. I wish serenity, sunshine, warm breezes and peace to you as you travel on this journey through life.
Laura Schmidt

Sent by laura schmidt | 12:05 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy,
Wow! I just said the same things to a dear friend of mine after finding out my "latest and greatest" chemo regimen wasn't holding back my Stage IV metastatic breast cancer. My God, we've thrown surgery, chemo, radiation, bio drugs, prayer and anger at this darn cancer - and it keeps coming back with renewed vigor. I too believe I will die from this monster - but not without a gallant fight. I get my inspiration partly from you - there's a Don Henley song, something about I will not go quietly. That's me! That's my theme song. Do the best you can for today, don't worry about your progress. Laugh and love, those are the things those you know you will hold on to. And, can you post on the weekend? I miss you on Sat and Sun (smile).

Sent by Anita | 12:15 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy~ anger can be good. It helps you gear up for the fight. Its better than giving up. But with that said, its ok to take breaks from the fight. And thank you for the review of your journey. My husband asked how many surgeries you've had and I wasn't sure. Thanks for sharing your journey with us. Take care~

Sent by DiAnn | 12:26 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Good Afternoon Leroy, Laurie and All,

Leroy, You do have satisfaction, indeed. Cancer has tried it's best to get you and you are still going. And keep going, Leroy!! Anger can be a good motivator when channeled in the right direction. It is hard to give up some of your independence but others are there to help. All you have to do is ask. I too, find it very difficult to ask. I'm still working on that. I landed in the ER on Saturday because my B/P spiked and refused to go back down. the study med I'm on can cause hypertension, it did! They gave me IV medication and did a CT scan of my head. My one little brain cell smiled and waved for the camera, so he was ok. But I know what you were talking about regarding the lack of padding on tables and gurneys. A spot of comfort is elusive! I had thought about an escape route but I was all wired up to monitors. I had been assimilated! The nurse said I had that look of leaving in my eye so they decided to keep their eye on me. I did get to come back home and my B/P is returning to more normal territory. But the disruption that Cancer introduces into our lives is a real challenge!

Laurie, I know you will be so glad when Leroy's status is more stable. You both have been through so much!!
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with both of you, daily!
Tom is always by my side too and I know I would not be here without him!

Sheara: Congratulations on your NED status!! Keep up the good work!

To All: As we all move forward on the journey through Cancer World we will experience moments of anger and frustration. But we are here for each other, thanks to Leroy and Laurie. And one day we will chase Cancer out of our lives for good! God Bless

Eileen Pruyne
Charlotte, NC

Sent by Eileen Pruyne | 12:26 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy, you just granted my wish: to have you "reappear" on NPR. Your voice sounded wonderful;
hope the rest of your body follows suit. I know I was badgering you to give NPR an interview, and you went back when you were ready. Thanks.

Donald Coyne, Bonny Doon

Sent by Donald Coyne | 12:50 PM ET | 04-14-2008

I heard your voice this a.m.on NPR as I was driving to pick up my P.E.T. shake (yech) and get blood drawn. It lifted my spirits to hear your voice! Days I feel rough I tell myself "it's nothing compared to what Leroy has been through".

Sent by Marcia Greer | 12:57 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy, Make the thing work hard. You are a tough one, I don't think the Cancer knew what it was in for, keep up the fight. Stan

Sent by Stan Wozniak | 1:00 PM ET | 04-14-2008

My dear friend:
I continue to read your entries daily and send you all the positive energy I have. You continue to amaze and inspire me. I only wish I could do more for you.
With great respect and loving thoughts always,

Sent by Harriet | 1:36 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Dear Leroy,

You have put up a good fight against a relentless and somewhat more skilled opponent. I have written before and I have asked this question before as well. When do we stay down on the mat and not get back up? And, if we stay down on the mat, is it because we can't get up or is it because we know getting up will not do us anymore good? Maybe getting up will buy us another few seconds of agony before we get a swift upper cut by a strong right hand skillfully trained through eons of evolution to take out their opponent, but will it be worth it? And, to make matters that much more confusing, what will the crowd think? Will they think? Get up, you can do it. Coward. Stay down. In truth though, it doesn't really matter what the crowd thinks. It's what you decide is best for you. Maybe getting up off of the mat will buy the time needed to get to the next round. Then, with the time bought, anything can happen. A cure? Another knockdown? Nobody knows and there are no clear cut answers. To me, that's the frustrating part.

There is a program airing on Wednesday night at 9:00 PM ET on PBS called, "The Truth About Cancer." In reading reviews about the show, it looks like it will provide a balanced view without a Hollywood happy ending. It will be another step in the right direction to having others who care understand what cancer means to those that have it.

I continue to wish you well. I write about you and your blog often in my blog at www.hncancer.blogspot.com.

Take care,
Ed Steger

Sent by Ed Steger (www.hncancer.blogspot.com) | 1:38 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy,
I thank you you each and every morning for sharing your strength with all of us. When I struggle to keep my thoughts in check so as not to upset anyone, there you are calming my deepest fears. I now think that in the dictionary, the word strength's defination should only be one word, Leroy, it says it all.
You are always in our thoughts and prayers!

Sent by Louise Mackay | 2:04 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy, I can't help but admire you. You just keep hanging in there and takeing things one day at a time. I know it is not easy.

I read the post from Al Cato and could not say it better. Thank You.

To Rici, yes we all fight the battles the best we know how. It is such a personal decision on how to fight. Just because one chooses to not fight the cancer Medically does not mean you give up all fight. When my husband chose to stop all Chemo I felt he just gave up but then I realized as time went on that this was his decision, not mine, to make. He still continues to try to make the most of each day as he can. He has not really given up, just trying to live to the fullest that he can.

To all, have a good day. I draw strength from all of you.

Sent by dorothy in oregon | 2:37 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy I am so sorry that cancer has robbed you of so much. You *have* made it work, hard. This spinal component has really made the (bad) difference, though. It is better than it being in the soft tissue but everything is relative, after all. I am not much for prayer but I am going to pray anyway, that your energy and abilities do return somewhat and you find enjoyment in life. I know that "beaten up" feeling and it really stinks. God bless.

Sent by Alycia Keating | 2:42 PM ET | 04-14-2008

I heard your radio talk this am and was quite moved by what you had to say. I am a volunteer coordinator with hospice and I deal with this sort of situation everyday. It is refreshing to hear a positive outlook. If ever I can do anything for you please let me know. I pray for you and wish you the very best.

Sent by Gina Ryles | 2:46 PM ET | 04-14-2008

It was great to hear you this morning! Lots of positive vibes coming your way from Seattle.

Sent by Chandana | 3:35 PM ET | 04-14-2008

I realized just last week I had not heard your great voice in some time. I thought about you over the weekend and was glad to know you are still with us. Keep up the fight my friend. I will continue to keep you in my prayers.

Sent by Donna | 4:22 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy - I heard your voice this morning and was so happy...then you told us why the long silence...and my heart broke. I have not followed this blog, so I had so been hoping the silence from you meant life was good and full and busy and cancer free. My husband and I began our cancer journey about one year ago...he is alive and so far cancer free, but the effects of treatment were rough and he is fighting like crazy to get his life back. Hearing your point of view really helps me support him better, and I thank you so much for your courage and honesty.
Robin

Sent by Robin Cook Hill | 4:35 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy,

I am delighted to hear you are feeling stronger. Keep fighting. You are an inspiration to so many. And you do have the LA (thanks Sue Chap) behind you!

Sent by Marcy in NJ | 4:47 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy,

I heard your piece this morning and to limited degree I can relate to your experience. On February 7 I had the same procedure as you except I am more fortunate in that my tumor was benign. My vertebrae was sectioned, the tumor was removed and the original vertebrae was wired, screwed & pinned back in place. I recall telling the ICU nurse the following day I would never do this again and he instantly replied yes you would. Looking backing and reading of your experiences I now know I would.

Keep up the fight, you will be in my prayers.

Sent by George Zornick | 6:13 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy, I wake up to your station because it comes in the clearest; so, I happened on your story by accident this morning. "Maybe good to live by but won't do to die by" is what my grandpa used to say. I want you to know there is a heaven to gain and a hell to avoid. Jesus is the Messiah and is your saviour to eternal life in heaven. I was prompted strongly to tell you that Jesus did die for everyone and by asking Him into your heart, confessing your sins to Him that He will forgive you and make dying your gain. He is real and loves you so much, He told me to tell you. God bless you and hope to see you in heaven when He calls us home. Love in Christ Jesus, Pat

Sent by Pat Dyess | 6:30 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy.. I get home so late now that I am back at work, but I read you and all commentaries before I even check my emails. Everyone seems to be on the same message track... we will not die healthy my friend, but we can live well. You have gathered quite a following that can both sympathize and empathize with you and your condition. God has used you for His purpose to touch many lives.. remember that the rain falls on the good and the bad, so sickness also falls on both the good and the bad. If we had choices, I am sure we would all like to die of old age and in our sleep smiling. Our choice right now is to "get up and live each day as if on purpose"...or not! xxoo comfort and peace.......

Sent by Jo Ann Baswell-Margate, FL | 6:43 PM ET | 04-14-2008

I like the attitude. Make it tough on this old foe. It's not going to have a cakewalk, that's for sure.

Sent by Scott S. | 6:55 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy,

I just found your blog this past week. I am a recent Leukemia survivor and your insight,candor and strength are a gift to many. Keep writing and sharing with all of us. The more we hear and understand - the stronger we become as survivors and caretakers. The winds of cancer have certainly affected your journey, but your ship sails on strong.

God Bless - Glenn Gleason

Sent by Glenn Gleason | 8:23 PM ET | 04-14-2008

I read your posts each day. I feel like I am reading my big brother's diary in that he's done it all and some day it might be my turn.
We will continue to fight our cancer battles and continue to be determined to kick some cancer a**.

Sent by Rockland Refugee | 8:47 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Dear Leroy,
It was so good to hear your voice this morning though it was sad too. May you have comfort, peace and joy in your life. Best to you.

Sent by Paulette | 8:53 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy,
It was so great to hear your voice on NPR/WKSU this morning. It sounds as strong and resolute as ever. I am so priviledged to be able to follow your story and share in your insights as you travel...You are not alone though, there are so many like myself; who have never and may never meet you face to face who pray for you and ask God to touch you and give you peace; peace in your body and mind. Sure, we pray for healing but we know that healing can take all different forms. What I pray for you is peace...Sending a big hug your way today. My life is enriched by hearing your honest and sometimes gut-wretching human struggle for normalcy. If it makes any difference, You are far from normal... you are a very special man...Sending you love and prayers...

Sent by Denise from Ohio | 9:26 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Thank you so much for your honesty anger and determination to continue on in spite of it all. I echo the first commentor today, Karen,with her reverent support and eloquent call to continued determination. Yes,I hope you did enjoy some sun shine on your face today and that the sun did not set without seeing you Leroy and that the day had some kernal of hope in it for you to carry you into tomorrow. Love to you. -Graham from Sag Harbor

Sent by Graham G. Hawks | 10:34 PM ET | 04-14-2008

Leroy, It was wonderful to hear your voice today. You sound tired, but determined. You certainly have been through some of the roughest experiences that illness can provide. There is nothing that one can say except to hope that you have a respite from the pain and suffering, and that you'll be able to get back to enjoying your life, and not enduring it. I wish you and Laurie the best, as always.

Sent by Nancy K. Clark | 11:41 PM ET | 04-14-2008

My husband used to listen to your broadcasts but, not being much of a reader, was not inclined to read your blog. He does not think much about things that don't affect him, but your broadcasts affected him. I hope you stay on, I'll keep him listening and together we can touch his heart with something other than triathlon!

Sent by Rose Patterson | 12:53 AM ET | 04-15-2008

I listened to your story with compassion and admiration for all you've endured. However, at the end you said something that jarred me. You said, "I know.." and proceeded to say how you will eventually die of cancer. I ask, if you already KNOW you will die of cancer, and have this programmed into your consciousness, why did you even bother with the surgeries, etc.? Wouldn't it be better to KNOW that you will be healed and live? There's been many studies now on the Mind-Body connection that prove one's experience is directly related to one's thought process. Think about it. As long as you are breathing, you are alive and it is not too late to think of living rather than dying. I wish you well.

Sent by Lynn T. | 4:53 AM ET | 04-15-2008

This particular article touched me deeply.

What a NASTY, HORRIBLE disease CANCER is.. Losing a friend this weekend just showed me how horrible and terrible it is..

You are such an inspiration to me. I hear your frustration and determination..

God bless...

Sent by Patsy Elmore | 7:05 AM ET | 04-15-2008

I believe that there are many cancer patients out there who have just discovered that the man who rang the bell was the one they have been listening to through the My Cancer blog. Way to go. Thank you. Sue

Sent by Sue Perdew | 10:52 AM ET | 04-15-2008

I've been telling my husband about your story for as long as I have been reading along... about two years now?? wow! We had NPR on the other day and this issue came on. I got chill bumps! For the first time in two years I was actually listening to the radio while you were telling your tale. It's the first time I've heard your voice. It sounds silly, but to me it helped to remind me that you still have one to share. I'm glad. My mom was diagnosed two years ago and it was just a bump in her road. You helped me through it for her. Thanks.

Sent by Chaney | 2:58 PM ET | 04-16-2008

Dear Leroy,
I am a radiation oncologist in training. Most of my day is spent in studying cancer, or with cancer patients. Your writing, however, has given me a perspective that no book, journal, or lecture ever could. Thank you for the perspective and lessons, I???ll do my best to remember.
Siavash

Sent by Siavash Jabbari | 11:39 PM ET | 04-16-2008