Feeling discomfort and pain, Jesse Edward Hammon went to his doctor. After initial testing, doctors realized that the problem was larger than expected. Doctors informed Jesse that he had a tumor in his abdomen but it was unknown if it was cancerous.
Jesse’s world was turned upside down. He was soon diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, Desmoplastic small round celled sarcoma on the third of March 2010. Could this really be happening, and yet it was.
This particular form of cancer is especially difficult to treat because so little is known about it. Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is a rare, highly aggressive tumor. Jesse’s cancer is mostly in his abdomen. This cancer spreads to the lymph nodes and lining of the abdomen. With further information, we learned that this cancer is more common in males and usually affects adolescents and young adults. Jesse is only 24 years old; he is a healthy, happy and fun loving guy.
There was not a local doctor that could treat the tumor. Jesse does not have insurance. He had just started a new job and had not received it yet.
The staff at EIRMC was amazing. Doctor Schmutz his radiologist, Doctor Sweetzer his oncologist, his nurse Cindy, social worker Burk and many others did everything in their power to get him where he needed to be, and with the right medical care providers. Jesse was accepted and transferred to the Huntsman Cancer Institute in SLC. Very few hospitals in the United States are equipped with the knowledge or resources needed to treat this form of cancer, and we felt very blessed that one was so close that would take him under the circumstances.
On the 7th of March Jesse met with Doctor Gouw at Huntsman. Dr. Gouw suggested aggressive Chemotherapy immediately. Desmoplastic small round cell tumors are often treated with aggressive chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. It is important to surgically resect (remove) all sites of disease in order to eradicate the cancer. Unfortunately, this is often not possible.
Jesse responded to the treatment very well. He is keeping his spirits high, although he has had to shave his goatee and has lost weight.
Jesse’s tumor is currently inoperable, but after four rounds of chemo the doctor believes that they will be able to remove a portion of the tumor. The tumor is the size of a deflated soccer ball and is not a round mass, it is intertwined throughout his abdomen and potions of his lungs. It is hoped that through the aggressive chemotherapy the mass will shrink and make surgery more successful.
When they did the original testing his immune system was strong and they were able to continue on with the chemo as planned. He is continuing to respond well to treatment and is appreciative of all the love and support of his family, friends and the community.
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