Charles has Stage IV Thyroid Cancer. He has had numerous surgeries since his initial diagnosis, but his last surgery in June was different. For this surgery, they went in for 2 tumors in his neck, found 4 and were able to remove 3. They had to leave the 4th tumor in because it is wrapped around the nerve that controls his speech and swallowing (as well as being very close to his jugular). He just had all of his teeth extracted so that he can embark on 6 weeks of daily radiation into his neck. His voice is raspy now and he strains to just talk. He chokes a lot and swallowing is hard for him. His wife describes him as a truly wonderful man and a great dad to 3 teenage daughters and 2 dogs (and 1 bunny).
Being forced to go on disability has been rough on Charles, and his wife made a wish to surprise him with a beach vacation so he can body surf in the waves. It will bring a much needed smile to his face, as well as to everyone in the family.
The wish has been granted and the family will travel to Pier Pointe at Emerald Island, North Carolina to have some vacation and quiet time together.
