1.) They tried two tracer procedures to identify the most likely neighboring lymph nodes that would have been affected; however, the doctor was not confortable with the results. So, they took every lymph node that they were able to identify in the right armpit area. They did a quick pathology report on one of the lymph nodes, and it came back negative for cancer. So, we're off to a good start.
2.) The tumor was right next to her pectoral muscle. The doctor was not able to see this in the sonogram or mamogram last week because the tumor itself obstructed this fact. As a precaution, he took a sample of it and submitted it as an independent sample for pathology.
3.) Complete pathology on all of the remaining lymph nodes, the tumor, and the muscle sample will not be available until we go for our next visit with Dr. Elliot on Sept. 16. The answers are coming in stages so we will post the last news as it comes.
Christy's recovery from surgery had a tough start. Before I got into the post op area, she had to be given medication for nausea. It worked, but it made her extrememly drowsy. I spent about an hour feeding her ice and trying to get her to open her eyes and wiggle her toes. Later she asked me if she had told me to shut up during that time. I think she was a little disappointed when I told her that she didn't. ;-) She was able to eat some crackers and keep them down. After that, the nurse helped her walk around a little bit in the post op area. After about 3 hours in post op, she was ready to come home at about 6:45 p.m. She had taken pain medication before we left, and it wiped her out. She slept from the time we got home until about 8:45 p.m. When she woke up, she was feeling much better, and she was able to eat some soup. I've been returning voice mail for about the last hour letting the people who called today know what you've been reading.
We had tremendous help from our family today. When we got home, my dad and stepmother and Christy's mother had a full dinner ready. Christy wasn't up for it, but I really enjoyed being able to sit down to a nice meal. They, along with her brother Brandon, Pastors Bramich and Huebel, and her friend Stephanie were with us at the hospital today.
Thanks to all of you for your prayers and calls and e-mails of encouragement. It means a lot to us. You have all been drawn closer to us as we have to you. Many of our friends have helped us with Damon and other things already. I dare not try to name all of you lest I forget someone. However, please know that has meant a lot to us, and we will never be able to thank you enough.
That's all for tonight. God's blessing to you all.
Philip
Jude 24-25
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