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Bulera’s Take on NYC

Rensselaer, NY

Story

In October, Brian found a lump in his neck while shaving. He’s had some ear issues in the past so he assumed it was an ear Infection and tried treating it at home. After a few weeks his neck become visibly enlarged. He visited his doctor who referred him to an ENT. After a CT scan they found the enlarged neck was a series of tumors in his neck. A biopsy of the tumors showed cancerous cells. Brian was originally diagnosed with throat cancer, but after radical and invasive treatments were suggested he and Rachael decided to look for a second opinion. After a PET scan and detailed MRI Brian was diagnosed with locally advanced nasopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Nasopharyngeal cancer is a type of head and neck cancer. It starts in the nasopharynx, the upper part of the throat behind the nose and near the base of skull. They have chosen Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan, NY as their treatment center. They are in love with the staff and specialized and modern treatments they offer. Brian became a candidate for a type of radiation called proton treatment, and will receive 8 weeks of proton therapy radiation every day Monday-Friday at NY Proton center through the care of MSK. He will have chemotherapy every third week for the next 5 months at Sloan. The 2.5 hour drive to NYC drive quickly become overwhelming so the Bulera’s decided to temporarily relocate to be close to treatments, and Brian’s team of doctors. While this is not a diagnosis anyone wants to hear, there’s no doubt that Brian’s positive attitude and determination will shine through. He has a huge support system of family, friends, and firemen who are going to help keep his spirits high. This adventure will bring many challenges.  Expenses will quickly add up with daily Uber rides to appointments, meals on the go, rental expenses, and frequent trips home to love on their kitty, Chloe.  Let’s pull together and help support them during this time of hardship.  We love you Bri!!! You got this!!!!  


Special Notes

COVID sucks and so does cancer. At this time we ask that visitors be privately arranged with Brian and Rachael.    Bri & Rach will continue to receive mail at their permanent address in Rensselaer. 

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