Facing Terminal Cancer and Welcoming a Baby: Tanner Martin's Story

Tanner's Cancer Diagnosis and Journey

• 💔 At 25, Tanner was diagnosed with Stage 4 colorectal cancer, a diagnosis that profoundly impacted his life and future.
• ⏳ Despite a prognosis of two to five years, Tanner has been actively treated for four years, facing numerous procedures, side effects like fluid in his lungs, and the constant challenge of managing pain medication.
• 🧠 Tanner's therapist encouraged him to share his experiences, highlighting the emotional impact of cancer and the importance of discussing it openly.

The Dream of Starting a Family

• 👨‍👩‍👧 Tanner and his wife, Shay, always wanted a family and decided to try for a baby if treatment was working.
• 🤰 The pregnancy progressed with anticipation, including ultrasounds and preparations for the baby's arrival.
• 💖 Tanner expressed a strong desire to meet his daughter, even enduring pain and discomfort to prolong his life until her birth.

Navigating Treatment and Insurance

• ⚠️ Tanner faces challenges with his insurance company, which denies coverage for prescribed pain medication, deeming the dosage excessive despite his ongoing cancer treatment.
• 🏥 The medical team continues his aggressive chemotherapy, referred to as "Full Fury," as long as Tanner agrees he is tolerating it well enough to proceed.
• 🎗️ Tanner grapples with the decision between continuing treatment and opting for hospice, ultimately choosing to fight to meet his daughter.

Preparing for Parenthood and Legacy

• 🧸 Tanner actively participates in preparing for his daughter, AmyLou (nicknamed Jiaozi), practicing being a dad and creating memories.
• 🎨 He focuses on making decisions intentionally and cherishing moments, recognizing the preciousness of time.
• 📹 Videos are being taken to capture Tanner's personality for his daughter to see as she grows up.

Welcoming AmyLou and Facing the Future

• 😭 Shay experiences a mix of excitement and grief, knowing her daughter will have limited time with her father.
• 👶 AmyLou is born, and the family prepares to go home to introduce her to Tanner.
• ❤️ Tanner reflects on his time, feeling he did a good job with the time he had, and expresses his love for his family.