Superman's Kryptonite - poem by Jessica Boltz

John L. Boltz was an ordinary man, who lead an ordinary life. He did not do anything heroic, he just lived his life the best he could within the laws of God and the laws of the government. He worked long hard hours to support his family. He did what he could to make sure his kids got an education, to pay for their weddings but his time was cut short and he didn't have time to walk his third daughter down the aisle. He was a grandfather and played hide and seek with his grandchildren, gave them piggybacks and took them swimming. Every Sunday morning was spent talking to his grandchildren on the phone. John was devoted to his family and family was everything that mattered to him.

John spent most of his time doing ordinary things, working and raising a family. That was until he was diagnosed with cancer that metastasized into the bone. He was our hero for he fought with everything he had without complaining. He walked until he couldn't walk anymore because the bones in his legs got so fragile.

Three months before he died, and too late for John, we found out about the drug Pamidronate that was not funded by BC Medical.

Pamidronate is given as an infusion into the vein (intravenous) and the amount will depend on many factors determined by the doctor.
Pamidronate may be used to treat a condition called hypercalcemia (high blood calcium) or to decrease complications (such as fractures or pain) produced by bone metastasis. Symptoms of hypercalcmia may include frequent urination, poor appetite, nausea, weakness, fatigue, confusion, stupor or coma.

Cancer cells that spread to the bone can secrete substances that cause cells found in the bone called osteoclasts to dissolve or "eat away" a portion of the bone.

Pamidronate is a bisphosphonate. Bisphosphonate medications are used to slow down the osteoclast's effects on the bone. In doing this it can be useful in slowing down or preventing the complications of the bone breakdown.

Our hope is that by having the John Boltz Memorial Kettle River Run as an annual event we will bring awareness to this drug.
The funds raised this year through donations and pledges will benefit the BC Cancer Foundation supporting Clinical Trials research locally at the BC Cancer Agency Centre for the Southern Interior and Emergency Financial Assistance to help patients who struggle financially as they go through their treatment.