Dear Spartans,
Denis Lavelle entered MSU in the fall of 1979. He was a quarterback for 4 years.
He graduated in 1983.Denis moved back to Cleveland where he has been in the
banking business. He is married with twin boys.
Denis Lavelle was diagnosed with melanoma in October 2006. After surgery and a
year of chemotherapy, we learned in May 2008 that his cancer had spread. Denis
and his wife, Mary Margaret, researched the best possible care and he is currently
undergoing treatment at The James Center in Columbus, OH. There they hope and
pray for a chance of remission and response.
They are very happy with the care they have been given in Columbus. However,
there are many uncovered and unexpected expenses in a situation like this. If
remission and response are not forthcoming, they will be forced to seek the next
best available clinical trial.
Denis and Mary Margaret wanted to take an opportunity to let everyone
know the status of his treatment plan for the melanoma. The update is as
follows:
Denis’ scans reveal that the melanoma is in his lungs, liver and a tumor on
the upper left side of his abdomen. The MRI of his brain showed some
suspicious spots (very small) that will be monitored closely. Denis has been
going to the James Cancer Center in Columbus since July for cycles of
chemo (High Dose Interleukin-2) which will be given three times a day for a
total of 12 doses. The side effects are severe and include very bad flu-like
symptoms. We appreciate the prayers and support and hope that you will
continue, especially the prayers. Denis has a great outlook and he is
strong and healthy and is determined to beat this.
I would appreciate if we could disseminate this the our membership for
general donations and entrance into the raffle.
Most Sincerely,
Alan Davis, 1980
Terry Tanker 1983