Elahere Treatment #3

 Originally posted December 17th, 2025

Elahere treatment #3 came with an important decision for Angela. One of the more difficult side effects of this chemotherapy drug is vision impairment, and unfortunately she falls within the 40% who experience it. The encouraging news is that she saw her eye doctor just before today’s treatment, and he confirmed that her eyes are healing. His recommendation was to continue with the medication, so there was no need to cancel today’s treatment or worry about next steps. The biggest challenge now is figuring out how to help her gain weight on her 95-pound frame. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated

Elahere Side Effects

 originally posted November 4th, 2025

Over the past 12 years, Angela Bursler has undergone several different chemotherapy regimens, and this latest one seems to have brought on the most intense side effects. She has a quiet strength in how she manages the pain, but despite her efforts to hide it, I can see it. We both find comfort in staying active, yet this time, the treatment left her confined to bed for most of the first three days. She's pushing through with remarkable resilience, and I’m confident she’ll work closely with her doctors to better manage the side effects moving forward. Her courage and determination continue to be a profound source of inspiration to me. #angelasangels

Angela's Take after Another Challenge

 originally posted by Angela on October 29th, 2025

Quite a long, stressful day. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers Chemo went smoothly with no reactions. Now let's hope for minimal side effects. A big shout out to Dave Bursler for being there with me and not killing the person who rear-ended us on 95 It was bumper to bumper traffic, and she was weaving side to side, talking on phone and following way to close. When she got out of the car after she hit us, she told Dave her foot hurt and was wearing a big foot brace. She definitely looked like a meth addict. SMDH Thank God it wasn't worse, and Dave and I are fine.

On the road again

originally posted October 28th, 2025 

Tomorrow, my wife begins another round of chemotherapy. Over the past 12 years, she has faced multiple treatment combinations, and now we’re preparing for yet another. It’s easy for others to assume everything is fine, but the truth is, it’s anything but calm. I can understand Angela’s emotions on the surface, yet I can’t fully grasp what she feels deep inside. Beyond that, family members who aren’t directly involved still carry emotional scars, and those feelings often ripple outward, touching people far removed from the situation.

We’re blessed with strong support networks at home and at work, but I know it takes resilience for those around us to handle the weight of our emotions. Staying motivated, remaining positive, and doing our best is how we show our intentions—even when our actions don’t always reflect that. At times, even the way Angela and I interact can be misunderstood because of the intensity of the moment.

What we lean on most is the love we share, because that love can overcome any challenge. Please keep her in your thoughts tonight. #AngelasAngels

Update on Angela's Condition Post Surgery

 February 2, 2025

Angela has had a remarkable recovery from surgery on Wednesday. The procedure included the removal of a lesion on her liver and the repair of her diaphragm after it was resectioned. Though she is in pain, she remains active and restless. Might need her "Angels" to advise her to slow down and follow the doctor's orders.

Surgery Results

 January 28, 2025

A little tear dripped down my face as the doctor just confidently told me surgery was a success. There is healing to be done but there is now light where it was once dark. Angela has taught me that when things are at their lowest is when you have to stand tall. #angelasangels

Surgery Rescheduled

 January 28, 2023

When you take life a day at a time without looking too far ahead the things that are way ahead of you always catch you off guard. It might seem shocking for me to say that my wife's surgery tomorrow snuck up on me but since she's been sick we both value every minute of every day as they come. In exactly 549 minutes from the time I'm writing this note, she will be in the hospital preparing to go into the OR. I'm hopeful she sleeps easily tonight and is not scared. I could call her a warrior, a fighter, a winner and while she is all of that and more what she is most to me is the love of my life. I ask that you please keep her in your thoughts and prayers tonight and tomorrow so that she may overcome this disease once and for all. #angelasangels

Surgery conflict

 January 10, 22025

Penn is an outstanding medical facility but like everything outstanding there is always opportunity for improvement. The medical professionals are some of the best in the world but the planning and scheduling team leaves a bit to be desired.

After a 5 hour wait due to rooms being over booked and another 1 hour prep time Angela was informed at 5:20 p.m. that an operating room was not available.

It's been a long day but based on the circumstances it was the right decision. She is disappointed and frustrated that surgery will have to wait until February but the safety of all involved as well as the quality of work is priority number one.

Surgery to remove cancer

 January 10, 2025

Today marks a crucial milestone in my wife's battle against cancer. Please keep her in your thoughts as she continues down the healing path. #angelasangels

All reactions:

81Angela Bursler, Thomas Allen Bursler and 79 others

Pre-Surgery Facebook Post

 January 2, 2025

Well, my cancer journey continues. January marks 11 years of survival. I am scheduled to have surgery on January 10 for one particular area on my liver which continues to grow and shrink with chemo. Since this has been the only area where the cancer remains (other than a small area in my lung which they will radiate), they decided it would be a good idea to remove it and save me from starting chemo again. I had a nice break since my last chemo treatment but of course the lesion is growing again. There are a few different outcomes that may happen but they will not know until they get in and operate. I will have two amazing surgeons on hand along with a robot (which may work or may not depending on what they find). I can only hope for the best outcome. I thank everyone for your continued support and prayers which I will definitely need

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month Facebook Post

September 1, 2024

I’d like to share a few thoughts as September brings awareness to Ovarian and several other cancers. Certainly, the disease has had an impact on everyone however the degree of that impact varies. A person diagnosed with the illness is best suited to share the challenge the disease presents with caretakers next in line. History doesn’t leave us with a lot of feel-good stories so for further disconnected an individual may be from the challenge of a cancer patient the less confident that person is of survival.

The initial diagnosis can be quite shocking. The stages of grief are certainly in play but there is no time to wait for acceptance before battling. At the very same time you are denying and angry you are defining a plan of action to battle. You have to be wise enough to understand that doctors have standard protocols that may or may not be effective & if they aren’t, you go somewhere else to find the extended versions of those protocols.

Real life doesn’t end because of a cancer diagnosis and people do not stop relying on you. You will find those who have compassion for you and those who don’t. You will run the gamut of emotions from anger to happiness but can never give up hope. There will most certainly be feelings of guilt because priorities have changed due to physical limitations but mentally you’re still sharp. All of the above emotions can challenge relationships but if you’re surrounded by those who love you most commitment won’t end because someone is sick.

At the end of the day, there will always be uncertainty attached to cancer but this generation has an opportunity to lay the groundwork for future generations to have hope.

Angela Facebook Post after Doctor Appointment

 1/31/2024

Cancer is hard on everyone. I had a PET scan a few months ago showing my metastisized cancer on my liver is stable...not growing but not getting smaller either. In the meantime I developed a precancerous lesion which has to be removed so I have to take a break from chemo treatment to have surgery. After going through this for 10 years it's hard and I'm tired. I spend most of my time in bed. I appreciate my husband Dave Bursler for his support and dealing with all of the ugliness of this disease. Please continue with your prayers. Thank you

Chemotherapy Break

Edit 2/1/2024

I posted the below message late last night but deleted it shortly thereafter. The words detail how I see things from my eyes and not necessarily the eyes of my wife. As the person directly affected by the disease she clearly has a different perspective than that of the caretaker. I also have a tendency to downplay the suffering not because I don’t recognize it but more so because I am of the belief that it’s more important to share how her response to the disease dictates the behaviors of those that surround her. I made the decision to repost because I want people to recognize that she is a symbol of hope. While certainly personal, her 10-year experience has affected and will continue to affect a broader audience. There is a lot of pride in that little body of hers so much so that she struggles to humble herself enough to recognize how influential she has become. As you take the time to read through my words please keep in mind the person suffering has a different perspective but the message that normalcy can be achieved is still the same.

**************************************************************************

Original Post 1/31/2024

You might think that after 10 years visits to Penn Medicine - Abramson Cancer Center would be routine but they're quite the opposite. The drive-up is always quiet, I sense anxiety, and as a lot of males attempt to do I try to fix it. The logjam of cars as we enter Philadelphia serves as a bit of a distraction but also it can be a source of more emotion. Once at the facility, it's time for a cup of coffee and lots of waiting. A consultation with the doctor is usually quick and then it's off to the treatment area for an infusion or two. After 6 hours of waiting, consulting, and treating we make the trek home. My wife and I then finish out the day by returning to work and doing the things that normal families do.

Speaking of normal one of the most amazing qualities that my wife has is the ability to be normal in an abnormal physical state. The people she surrounds herself with find strength in her actions and reactions. We respond positively to uncertainty because of the confidence she exudes. I have witnessed the smiles in public and the faces of agony when alone. She has unbelievable courage, strength, and tremendous love for her family.

Those trips to Abramson are anxiety-laden but also opportunities to support each other. The consultations have changed from the doctor providing 100% of the guidance to now the doctor asking my wife her opinion. It was a little frustrating to me when that first started happening but I guess 10 years of being a patient can only supplement 8 years of medical school. The time spent waiting and drinking coffee are opportunities for us to bond. Some might say our relationship has become stronger because of this time we have together.

Throughout her ten-year bout with cancer there have been scary times and exciting times. The most important thing is that she is here with us to experience those emotions.

I love her very much and would not want to be anywhere else in the world except with her. We appreciate all of the positive comments and encouragement and can assure everyone they are helpful.

One final note before I conclude this post is that we are excited to report the results of her PET showed dramatic improvement. She has been given a wonderful opportunity to take a break from treatment for a few months. We will definitely be taking advantage of this time away from the treatment chair to do something fun.

#ANGELASANGELS

Consistent by DB

12/31/23

The word consistent is what we live by in our home. The ups and downs, twists and turns result in different emotions, but our direction is always forward. I think most people get there at some point in their lives mostly due to maturity but in our case, it was due to disease.

There are many roads people can take when diagnosed with a chronic illness but not all of those roads will lead to harmony. Even as we travel down our chosen path there are crossroads that challenge our decision to stay the straight and narrow. It takes two individuals with different qualities to come together to fend off weakness & temptation to keep each other positive and strong.

January 1st, 2014, my wife experienced the first symptoms of cancer and now almost 10 years later to the day her diagnosis has significantly improved. Our road has been long, but our love has strengthened thru the storm, and she is alive and beating the odds.

Thank you so much for all of those who have prayed for her or kept her in your thoughts. I am of the belief that this support enables her to have the will to live.

This is not over, and we will not let our guard down. The odds can be what they may but will not factor into how we live our life.

Love you so much Angela Bursler and I am hopeful the PET scan results allow you to have a lengthy chemo break that you so deserve.

PET scan results by Angela

12/31/23

After a PET scan yesterday, my cancer continues to respond to current treatment. While the side effects can be exhausting and annoying, the red devil (Doxil) is keeping me alive. January 1, 2014 was the first time I noticed a lump in my abdomen. 10 years later I am still here because of research and the amazing oncologists at Penn Medicine. I am not only here because of Penn but because I have wonderful people who support me, pray for me and love me. I couldn't ask for more. Many thanks to all of you out there who have given me the strength to survive

                                                                             ****Quit****

 

Today, I have something on my mind to share with whoever wants to listen/read.   What I’m going to share with you today are my thoughts about the word quit and the implications of it.  Almost every time human beings are posed with a significant challenge it’s not uncommon to default to thoughts of quitting.  The question I ask myself today is what is the source of the energy, motivation, and determination that prevents us from quitting?   Personally, I gave in to the urge to quit quite often when I was younger but as I matured I learned to be less reactive, think it through, and not quit.

 

I can think of no better example of how a positive attitude can overcome the urge to quit than that of my wife who has cancer.  Diagnosed with 3^rd stage ovarian cancer 9-1/2 years ago, she could have easily succumbed to depression, anxiety, or any other similar condition but when faced with adversity she chose to be positive.  Today, in spite of a diagnosis that typically results in death within five years she is still alive.  I attribute her ability to beat the statistics because of her determination, desire to live, the threshold for pain combined, and just pure stubbornness.  I can detail her experiences as clear as day but there are no words to describe her pain.  I witness her pain daily; I witnessed it today and will witness it again tomorrow, but can tell you I don’t even have an understanding of what she feels or how she overcomes it.  It’s bothersome to me that as time goes by people forget that she’s sick or take for granted that because she smiles she’s okay.  It becomes even more bothersome to me when I realize that there are times that I do the same.  If the response from others bothers her she certainly doesn’t let on that it does but instead keeps moving forward with the desire to be treated just like you and me.  Little sympathy was given and no sympathy was wanted but instead constantly moving forward, looking ahead, and making plans for the future.  My wife, the woman I love, is the very same person who teaches me every day the value of life.

 

As for me, yes, like most others I’ve reacted to challenges by initially wanting to quit but over time I learned methods to cope until the challenge can be overcome.   While my most significant experiences as a runner are in no way comparable to those of my wife as a cancer survivor, I have moments I can refer to in times of weakness to remind me of the power we possess as humans.

 

The moment I reflect upon the most occurred in June 1999 at mile 75 of a 100-mile race conducted in the mountains of Virginia.   I faced the adversity of climbing a rocky mountain in the darkness while alone.  Being my first event at this distance I had never encountered a similar challenge so when the choice of quitting entered my mind I succumbed.   I gave up, I quit, and there will always be a piece of me that will regret that moment however with that moment came a lesson that gave me the knowledge and strength to go back the following year and not only finish but do so in the top 10.

 

 

If I can find someone who wants to listen I  enjoy interjecting a story about the Badwater Ultramarathon in our conversations.   As it applies to quitting I have no stories about that event where that thought ever entered my mind or that of the other 99 people that were with me.   Clearly, you would think a 135-mile event held on the roads of  Death Valley, California the word quit would be heard often but when 100 of the toughest runners in the world group together over a two-day period in July the word quit is removed from the dictionary.

 

Like running, life is not about winning or losing but instead finishing.  We battle through adversity, overcome challenges and in spite of what data or statistics say always remain positive and move forward. 

 

Hopefully, my message reaches somebody today who faces what appears to be an overwhelming challenge and finds what I wrote to be helpful.  As for me and my wife, quitting will always be a temptation but never an option.

First Dose of Carboplatin

Part of one of the new Chemo treatment was successful. She was able to overcome a potential bad reaction to the drug with the use of a desensitization protocol. Simply put the drug was infused slowly over four doses instead of one quick infusion. It was a long day but she's back home safe. Now it's on to part two of the treatment--killing cancer cells.

Taxol ineffective new plan developed

Wednesday, March 3, 2021

The day started after an anxious night of sleep knowing that we were once again at a crossroads in the journey to survive cancer.

The blood indicators are rising, the pain has returned and the scan shows an increase in the size of existing lesions and the appearance of a new one.

My wife is worried, I'm worried, it's stressful and impacting our ability to effectively communicate with one another.

When it's dark we have to find light and in our case, the light is in the form of the medical professionals at the University of Pennsylvania. There has never been a time that we walked into the facility with a problem and not walked out with a plan to treat it. Today was no different. We are back on the road to recovery.

Chemo visit Wednesday 7/15--Angela's Thoughts

Oh boy...what an interesting chemo day. The normal drive to Abramson Cancer Center getting worse with traffic. Thank you Dave Bursler for not killing us on the way there or back...lol I do the usual blood work and check in for chemo. A couple walks in and proceeds to chemo check in. The spouse isn't even supposed to be there but proceeds to tell the check in person how awful it was having the Coronavirus.....the wife (cancer patient) doesn't want to wear a mask. I spoke to the check in person about the Coronavirus spouse and she tells me he tested negative twice...he's fine. Are you serious???? Stay AWAY and take your wife with you if she doesn't want to wear a mask. Then there was another guy (not a cancer patient) with an older chemo patient who was snoring so loud... until his phone rang and you heard everything he said and it continued...snoring and phone conversations. WTF is wrong with people. I was told no one can come up to the chemo floor without a doctor's note?...I am sure none of the extra 5, 6 or 7 people had a note but they took up the few amount of chairs that were there. Another women couldn't understand English but did she really have to have her two older children in the waiting room with her....they didn't understand what 6 feet away meant. The more people up on the chemo floor...the more chance people can get infected. There is no excuse for Penn Medicine to let their guard down in a cancer facility. It's kind of funny that all the administrative check in people have a guard in front of them and ask you to step back if you get close. And to top the day off, I went outside to sit on a bench 6 feet away from an older gentleman who couldn't stop farting and it smelled horrible. And to think I pay thousands of dollars for this....

Treatment #8 Postponed

May 27, 2020

Chemotherapy treatment #8 was postponed today and will not resume for two weeks.

The period of remission that lasted from May of 2019 to March of 2020 ended with Angela Bursler experiencing symptoms for the first time since the initial diagnosis in 2014. It was because of this that the protocol for this round was more aggressive. A typical protocol is 3 weeks of treatment and then a week off but the doctor's plan of attack was to treat every week until Angela waved the white flag. The assumption was that she would be able to withstand one round (4 treatments) before she would relent but she worked through pain and weakness to extend it out to 7 treatments before finally saying uncle.

She has an unbelievable will to live. By living I don't mean living for herself but instead for her kids, mother, father, friends, dogs, and yes even me. I can't explain how difficult it is to watch a person you love suffer but I can tell you that it is so inspiring to watch that same individual rise up and overcome challenge after challenge. I love her to death and have so much respect for her.
#Angelasangels