Rick James was diagnosed with hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma in July 2010. This is a rare liver cancer that develops in less than 200 people a year in the US with no known cause or guaranteed cure. Rick has 7 inoperable tumors in both lobes of his liver and the only way to remove the cancer is with a liver transplant. Rick will hopefully undergo a liver transplant in the next few months, once a suitable donor is found. The procedure is called a “live liver donation” because a family member or friend will be donating a large portion of their liver to be transplanted into Rick. Amazingly enough, a few weeks after the transplant, the partial liver of both the donor and new one inside Rick will grow back to full size.
Truly a miracle and a gift of life.
Rick, you and your family are in our prayers. You have been a great friend to our family and we wish you all the best! -Michelle
ReplyDeleteHi Rick and Aimee. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Please let me and Mike know if you need anything. We will definitely see you at the benefit dinner.
ReplyDeleteRick and Aimee,
ReplyDeleteMuch love to you both. Please remember I am right down the street, ready and willing to help when you need it. I would love to take the girls anytime. Rick, you have an army behind you! Can't wait to hear the good news of your recovery!
Rick and Aimee... It has been many years since New Zealand, and we have kept in touch and had good times. As such, our Circle Tour. I am glad you made it! Even though I am in NJ for now, I will look to be at your dinner.
ReplyDeleteRick, you can always call me if you need a buddy to talk to.
~Bravo
My dear friend and co-worker Rick. You are such an incredible person and I thank you for making such a positive impact on many. You have been an inspiration to me through your passion for work, your LOVE for Christ,your generosity and dedication to helping other, and never ending positive outlook. You,Aimee,Taylor,and Allie are in my prayers! Much love,
ReplyDeleteDana Heumann
" 'For I know the plans I have for you' declares the Lord, 'Plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you HOPE and a future.'"
Jeremiah 29:11
Root - It's been too long big fella. You and your family will be in our thoughts down here in TX. Keep on rootin' and hopefully I can make it back up there soon to see you beat this thing!!
ReplyDelete--Ian
Rick- I just wanted to let you know that I am praying for you every day and know in my heart that you will beat this. Stay strong!
ReplyDeleteI Love you,
Laurie
To my BIG brother, I want you to know I'm here for you and I love you soooooo much. The battle song is: THE EYE OF THE TIGER!!!!!! You rocked it then and you will rock it now!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteLOVE ALWAYS, Carrianne
wait...wait..wait...now after much thought on this particular situation...I havent seen any stinken tumors...have you...i refuse to believe it till i get one of those little suckers in the mail...and im not gonna say a bunch of nice things about root...however...A Friend will bail you out of jail...A Good Friend will be sitting in the cell next to you saying "wow what a fun night"...and thats all I have to say about that Rick guy!!!
ReplyDeleteLove u brother...
Kevin Varga, Detroit MI.
Don't know you Rick, but work with Laurie and know that if love and admiration were enough you'd be cured all ready!!! Praying for you and your family-hope the match comes soon
ReplyDeleteKeep the Faith
Kim Beckwith
Rick
ReplyDeleteMay the love of your family and friends help you beat this thing. Have you read Quantum Healing before? It is really uplifting for those moving towards recovery. our thoughts and prayers are with you. x Nancy Smith-Southcott in the UK
thx everyone...I love all ya!!! Rick
ReplyDeleteI pray every day for this horrible situation to be over for you. This will be a tough journey but a journey you can trudge through and conquer. Keep positive, stay strong, don't give up and beat this. I have much anger towards that thing called cancer. You can do this Rick. Remember to lean on your friends and family because that's what they are there for.
ReplyDeleteOne big Ostrem family hug coming your way! ((hug))
Many blessings.
Brandi
Rick and Aimee, you remain in my thoughts and prayers daily. I can not put into words the emotion I felt yesterday when Aimee told me you were in surgery and then to read the update on the blog that you were in recovery. You are an amazing person -always filled with a positive outlook on life, encouraging and thoughtful. we are able to help in any way we can, just ask. Rick, when my life gets so busy and out of control I often hear your words of encouragement - "it could be worse" those 4 little words have helped me now let us help you and your family. if there is anything we can do please let us know. You are my hero.
ReplyDeletewith love and admiration,
Ro