Patrick’s Story

Osteosarcoma at the Mandible
Age at Diagnosis: 24
Year of Diagnosis: 2005
Surgeons: Dr. Neal Tohpam and Dr. John Ridge in Philadelphia

Diagnosis: I had dental work in late December 2004. Swelling and aggravation occurred back by my right molars. I went back to school in Orlando, but the swelling got worse. I saw a dentist in Orlando, he put me on antibiotics for a while then sent me to an oral surgeon for a biopsy. I was diagnosed 3 days later (Feb 22, 2005) with an aggressive, life-threatening form of cancer. Osteogenic sarcoma of the jaw.

Treatment: My family and I chose Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. I went through 6 cycles of chemo (methotrexate, adriamyicin, cycplatnum) starting in early March. After that a major surgery occurred May 26, 2005. Performed by Dr. Ridge and Dr. Topham. The right half of my jaw was removed and replaced with the tibia from my left leg. I had feeding tubes, tracheotomy, etc. I recovered and went home a few weeks later.

Recovery: I worked extremely hard to rehab my leg and jaw movements. With the removal of the bottom right side of my teeth, chewing is now more of a process but I am dealing with it well. Some pain occurs in my leg and jaw but nothing overwhelming. I put on 30 lbs in about 4 weeks to better prepare for my last 6 cycles of chemo. I am now finishing up my last 4 cycles here at Fox Chase. I am expected to be done and cured by mid September of 2005. I am thrilled with my results, considering what they could have been.

Life Now: As anyone with this disease knows, we are in another family ow too. I have been overwhelmed with supportive emails, letters, etc. from others with cancer. It has proved so valuble for my fight. And my family itself has been so supportive in every single aspect of my fight. My girlfriend Natalie has also been by my side throughout this fight. Also, my general attitude on life is very different (for the better). Once I am totally done with treatment, I plan on helping in support groups or however I can.

Thoughts and Hints for New Patients: Use a day or two to be upset about it. Get it out. Then its time to FIGHT. You can beat this disease!