... I still have a brain tumor, but that is all. They did a full PET scan of my body and found NO other abnormal cells anywhere!! We still don't know the pathology of the brain tumor and won't until they resect it. I met with the USC neurosurgion on Friday, he is double booked for two months, isn't really taking new patients, but because of my referral from my esphagous surgeon, my age, and the swelling involved he is going to operate next Thursday the 19th at 10:30 am.
He said the procedure is only about 3 hours, my head will not be shaved, the only pain after the procedure will be in my neck where he has to cut through the muscle. He will resect the tumor, drain the fluid, and use a gamma knife to erradiate the area around the location. Afterwards, I should be symptom free, in the ICU for one night, private room for 3 days, then I could drive my self home if I wanted.
I feel so blessed to be able to see these amazing cutting edge surgeons. Of course, I read the interenet and thought I would have to relearn to eat and write and be unable to drive for over a monthe. He (by the way is Dr. Charles Liu, Ph.D.) laughed and reminded me that it was 2009 and I was in a state of the art facility. He is a very caring, busy man, with a great bedside manner. He gave me a hug, told me not to worry and that my cute little bob haircut would remain in tact.
I am glad things are moving quickly, now I have to move quickly. Clean, manicure, hair done, kids parceled out, etc. At least we went to Costco and Smat and Final today as a family and stocked up on crap, Hot Dogs, Taquitos, Top Ramen, Frozen Pizza, Corn Dogs, etc ... all the typical Dad/Kid junk. They had fun.
I will update again tommorrow, but wanted to get this out now. I know so many of you are thinking and praying for me. Please don't stop. I truly believe the medical community has be guided by God to keep me here, they is simply no other explanation. God bless all of you for your continued support and love.
Heather
PS. My spelling and phrasing might be a little off ... I have a brain tumor!
I've had you in my blog feed since you were battling esophageal cancer. I got really worried when I read your last post. This post sounds less scary - I hope things go very smoothly this week. Makes such a difference to have a nice, capable doctor, doesn't it? Sending many good thoughts your way.
Posted by: Festi | November 15, 2009 at 07:13 PM
Yay that is good news! He sounds like a good man - a safe place to put the care of your life. Sending good thoughts your way, and you know I'll be waiting for an update!
Posted by: Kirsten | November 15, 2009 at 09:15 PM
Thinking of you Heather...
Know that only the best thoughts are for you. xoxoxo So glad that its good news. Hey! Your toes will be freshly manicured and you'll still have your great hair! :) Always a bright side! :) Love you. Julie
Posted by: Julie | November 16, 2009 at 07:13 PM