Eight years ago, when I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, I decided to let all the hairs on my face have their way. Having never been able to grow what I would call a decent beard, I was shocked when this happened:
Over the last eight years, I have adjusted my beard for various events and occasions, but I really enjoyed having it.
If you got this far, you might be wondering why my beard is gone. It’s kind of ironic that 8 years ago I grew a beard when I was diagnosed with cancer, and now I’ve had to lose the beard because of, yup, you guessed it—cancer. Without getting into a bunch of details, this time the cancer is located in my throat area. My wife Sheri and I have seen the surgical oncologists at UAMS, and I am not a candidate to have it surgically removed. That means the treatment will consist of chemotherapy and IMRT radiation. So starting Monday, May 16, 2022, I will have the first of 35 daily radiation treatments and the first of 7 weekly chemotherapy treatments. But why lose the beard? So my radiation mask will fit tight enough to hold my head in the correct position while I’m being cooked irradiated.
During the consult, the doctor told me that although this type of cancer is very curable, the treatment is no walk in the park. He actually looked right at Sheri and told her that at about week three of treatment I would turn into an “asshole”. Sheri just looked at him and shrugged her shoulders; I am still wondering how I should take her response. I’m not even going to tell you my daughter’s response.
So now for the good news: the type of cancer I have has a curable rate of 80 to 90 percent. Although there will be some permanent side effects, like mild loss of hearing and I might sound a little different as I will be losing a little bit of the base of my tongue.
But the best news is that in about 8 weeks I will be growing a beard again because you know, I really miss my beard.
Life goes on, brother.
Wayne Berry
The above quote is often said by a good friend of mine, Wayne Berry, and reminds me to take everything and everyone in stride. God Bless.
Tell them I said you can’t talk to funny because I don’t want to have to learn cw
Tell Sheri and Khara you love them AND you’re sorry in advance of being an asshole. Also mark the calendar at 3 weeks and hole up in your room for the next couple of weeks. Seriously though. Sending positive, healing energy and prayers.
Although I don’t ever recall seeing it first hand, I have no doubt that you could totally pull off being an asshole. And to be a fly on the wall when the dr said that…. I can only imagine Khara’s response!!
Stay strong friend!
OMG! The pics! I especially like the “Einstein” one!! You got this George AND Sherri! (Sounds like a lot of “outdoor gardening time” after week 3, Sherri) We’re here for you guys if you EVER need anything ❤️❤️❤️
#cancersucks
Praying for strength and complete healing there’s no doubt you got this you have faith
This is so cool, you very talented dude! You could have easily rocked out with ZZTop or did you? Hmmmm… hugs, love most important prayers for Everyone and All of us for whatever comes your and our way! Oh, you can’t be an a**hole and be special, because everyone’s got one! Hang tough, we got you. If you guys need anything at all let us know.