the countdown begins

I’ve done a terrible job updating about my Jeff. To those of you who followed his journey, I can’t thank you enough, and thought it only “fair” that I update with the most recent news.

Although none of his treatments ever worked, or worked for long, after Jeff was diagnosed with brain Mets in August 2021 and he endured both brain surgery and brain radiation, the activity in his brain remained stable.

The cancer seemed to spread everywhere else, but his brain was ok.

Last month Jeff had another brain MRI which showed there were innumerable tumors on his skull, on the dura, and in the soft tissues of his brain.

Last Saturday night, Jeff woke and couldn’t communicate on an understanding level and was exhibiting bizarre behaviors.

We took him to the ER where they ruled out a stroke, but confirmed he had a seizure. The seizure was likely caused by the tumors on the dura pressing into the soft tissue.

Since being in the hospital, his condition has only worsened. He cannot maintain oxygen sats, he’s significantly weaker, and while he has lucid moments, he still gets very confused. His nose won’t stop bleeding and he’s expelling giant blood clots. He’s not eating and is now combative/non compliant with what the nurses need him to do. He sleeps a lot.

The oncology team feels the cancer is now in the brain sheath and spine. (Think fluid) They were going to do a spinal tap to confirm this, however, his condition has deteriorated so much, they canceled the order.

Today they are trying to discharge him on hospice. They feel he has days to weeks left.

#teamjeffgallagher

Stephanie,
I'm so sorry. You and Jeff are in my thoughts.

A tough battle well fought. I hope I have as much courage, and someone such as yourself to stand beside me.

Stephanie, you both have done your best to fight this disease. I am very sorry that this is the final outcome to his courageous fight. You have been very strong in your effort to help him. Stay strong and try to remember the good times you both had. My best to you and your family in the coming days and weeks.
Jack

You should be extremely proud of each other.

Djin

Very Sorry, Prayers for both of you.

Jim

Thanks so much for the update. Prayers to both of you.

I am so very sorry to hear this. The two of you have both shown incredible courage and love.

Dear Stephanie,

I have kept you & Jeff & TEAM GALLAGHER in my thoughts, each day, since the day you first posted here.

I'm focused on thoughts for Jeff's care and comfort.

I have thought of you both, walking across the Mayo Campus, as I have done ~ receiving scans where I have received scans, sitting in waiting rooms where I have waited, seeing doctors I have seen, and visiting coffee shops I have visited.

You have done everything right, & you have left no stone unturned ...

Draw close together as a family ... and may strength be granted to you, each day.

I promise to keep in touch.

You are in the thoughts of so many ~ and I am just one of those people.

Thinking of you & Jeff throughout each day ... I am keeping you uppermost in my thoughts and prayers.

Strength for today ~~~
CYCLONE ••• # Iowa State University

Post Edited (Cyclone-ISU) : 6/26/2022 11:15:41 AM (GMT-6)

I’m not one to comment either but have been following your posts closely Stephanie.

May God Bless you and yours.

Stephanie, thank you for the update on Jeff. Hopefully hospice can provide some clarity and peace to both of you.