As most of you know, about three weeks ago, Kent started to lose energy and become extremely exhausted for no apparent reason. It got to the point the week prior to Christmas where he lost his appetite and was unable to keep hydrated. After two doctor visits on Tuesday, December 19 and Friday, December 23, it was the consensus of our doctors that he was fighting a viral infection, however, blood work was ordered and the results showed that his calcium level was extremely elevated and his kidneys were being compromised. Friday evening a call from our family physician prompted Kent being admitted to St. Mary’s Hospital. Since that time his calcium levels and kidney function have improved but in order to determine what the underlying problem is, a battery of tests were ordered. Today we met with a hematologist/oncology specialist in regards to the preliminary test results. All indications appear that Kent has Multiple Myeloma, a form of cancer that attacks the bone marrow. The decision has been made to move forward fairly quickly and aggressively with treatment. Tomorrow Kent will have a bone marrow biopsy which will help confirm the preliminary tests.
Kent will be able to come home on Friday after further tests are complete, and as we all know it is hard to keep him away, so he plans to return to work next Tuesday!!
In order to keep a sense of normalcy for Kristina and Keaton, we will not be able to respond to everyone’s e:mail and phone calls, however, we are in the process of setting up a blog which will be updated to keep you posted on Kent’s progress and how our family is doing. The blog address is kbriggs.wordpress.com. Please feel free to e:mail Kim at kkkkbbbb@aol.com, as we would prefer this address be used to communicate with us at this time. If we have forgotten anyone, please feel free to forward this along.
We are grateful for your friendship and love and your help with our children as we progress through this difficult time. We are overwhelmed by the love and support you have shown already and we want to thank you for your prayers and concern.
Kent and Kim Briggs
