My name is Bill Copenhaver and I was diagnosed in the medical center of Houston back in September of 2006 with a rare cancer called an Iset Cell Tumor of the pancreas. What was first thought to be acid reflux, I dealt with the pain off and on for six to seven years. Unfortunately turned out to be cancer. Shortly there after I was sent to MD Anderson to do more tests. Once the final results were in, the doctors revealed to my wife, Alicia and I that the cancer had spread to my liver classifying me as a Stage IV cancer patient. When we heard this we were scared, shocked and just could not believe it. Cancer? Not me! I'm a healthy 37 year old man.
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I don't have cancer! We had just adopted our beautiful son, Logan six month prior to finding this out and we didn't know what to expect. With all the thoughts that come to mind of having cancer, I started thinking why cancer? Why now? There is so much to do and look forward to.
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I've undergone six months of chemotherapy and the tumor seems to be stable and the lesions on my liver have decreased in size by 20%. It's been a battle with loosing weight and feeling sick. But, through it all we have kept our faith strong and give it all to God. What else can you really do? HE has blessed us with a loving boy who we call our pride and joy! All of my family, friends and their prayer groups have been behind us every step of the way praying and simply being so supportive. I've received cards and letters from people I don't even know telling me I
am in there thoughts and prayers. I've always been an active person playing sports as a kid to weekend warrior activities. I've participated in the MS150 bike ride from Houston to Austin several times, but never anything like this triathlon. When people ask me..."You have cancer?" I zell them..."Yes I do, but it doesn't have me!" Â
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Thank you Stephanie, Greg and to your kids for everything you've done to make this event a reality for all of us! You have given me something else to look forward to.
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