10/18 email.

Family and Friends,

Most of you are now aware of the circumstances surrounding our family at this hour. I will give a brief recap and update.

Dad was admitted to surgery at 5. During the surgery, the urologist was able to successfully place stints in both of Dad's damaged ureters. He came and reported that the stints were in and looked well, but would need replacement every 6 months or so. Around 7, the general surgeon came in and reported that Dad had a "porcelain" gall bladder (swollen and hard). It was quickly diagnosed as cancerous. Upon further probing, it was discovered that the cancer had spread to the stomach wall, back of both kidneys, liver, and the ligaments holding these areas of the bowels together. Given that the cancer had metastasized or spread to adjacent organs, it was rated as a stage 4 (end stage).

Gall Bladder cancer is very rare and one of the high risk factors is ulcerative colitis, which Dad has had for 18 years. At stage 4, treatment is aimed at improving the quality of life, not the quantity. There are no cures. Statistical life expectancy is 2-4 months. Gall Bladder Cancer develops very quickly and is generally aggressive; early diagnosis is difficult, especially since all the symptoms are parallel to the complications with Dad's digestive system. 70% of initial diagnoses are already at a stage 4.

We are shocked, blindsided, and emotions run close to the surface. As well, we are reflective, hopeful, and peaceful with what the Lord has in store for us. It will require the very best of our family to see this through and we will draw upon the strength provided by faith in our Lord.

Dad will undergo surgery again on Tuesday afternoon to have an iliostomy where he will have a bag on his stomach to collect the waste. This will improve the quality of life and lessen the pain he is in. We have provided a blog wherein we will update you and post additional information rather than continue with the emails. http://richardloser.blogspot.com/ is the address. He will most likely be discharged latter in the week to go home. We look forward to being at home together.

Many have asked what they can do. We welcome your prayers and fasting in our behalf. Perhaps you could hold your loved ones a little longer tonight in gratitude.

Before visiting the hospital, we request you call Nichole at 801-472-2493 to make sure we can accommodate you.

We will update the blog frequently.

Thank you for all you do.

Adam