Ed Silva and his grandchildren

     Ed Silva will celebrate a  special birthday next week. There was a time last year when he didn't know whether he would live to see 55 years. However, the grandfather of four completed chemo this month and has a lot to celebrate.

     Ed began having gastrointestinal issues and underwent surgery for a bleeding ulcer in June 2011.  It was after he developed a blood clot, returned to the hospital and then scheduled a follow up appointment that he was diagnosed with gastric cancer. 

     "It took me off-guard and took my breath a little bit," says Ed, a patient of Dr. Artim and Dr. Cavey. "You always think not me." 

   But indeed it was him. And he underwent more surgery in August 2011. Ed began chemotherapy and radiation at The Center in January. 

     "It hit me like a ton of bricks," Ed says. "It's been a whole lifestyle change but I take it day by day."

Ed (far left) on a family trip

     Despite the obstacles he's been faced with, Ed credits his wife of 30 years, Annabelle, as well as family, friends and faith for keeping him going. Ed also utilized social media site, Facebook, as a support system.      

     "Facebook friends really supported me on days when it was all caving in on me," he says.   

    Ed's message of hope is about being humble and staying positive: "Have faith and utilize support. You can't do it by yourself. Also, take it one day at a time and worry about tomorrow - tomorrow."  

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