We got home from the hospital at 11 this morning. Unfortunately the doctors were only able to do the first procedure - the ultrasound. We learned from the test results that the cancer has unfortunately spread to the lymph nodes in the area of the esophagus. Because of this, they weren't able to do the resection to remove the tissue from the inside of the esophagus. So, we are heading down another path of treatment.
Tuesday morning, Roger goes in for a PET/CT Scan (scanning his system from bottom of his cranium to his thighs) to determine if the cancer has spread to any other lymph nodes. The next day we go in for a surgical/oncology consult. The doctors will discuss whether Roger should have chemo&radiation before surgery or after surgery. The surgical aspect of this is for the removal of the bottom portion of the esophagus, moving the stomach up, and reattaching the stomach to the new lower end of the esophagus. I believe they will also remove the lymph nodes in the area with tumor. The surgery, as you can imagine, is pretty serious. They will need to enter his chest (cracking the ribs) to access the area.
The doctor told us that the situation is serious but not hopeless. They were genuinely surprised that the cancer had spread - they thought it appeared to be in an early stage. They were encouraged that the lymph nodes appear small in size
Roger is resting now....process....trying to figure out which way is up. I'm processing...trying to figure out which way is up. Angie
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I'm so sorry to hear that Angie as I pray that plan B will work to get him back to his health. If there is anything I can do to help you both, please let me know. I know this is a hard time for you both.
ReplyDeleteMike West
Roger and Angie,
ReplyDeleteWe are so so so sorry you are going thru all of this. There just aren't any words, but we are here for you and love you both.
Love, Joe & Katie
I love you. If you do figure out which way is up, please let me know.
ReplyDeletet.
There's everything to hate about this news, except one thing: What a bonus that you got in and found this stuff before it wormed its way any further. Now, you can do something about it. I don't pretend to know how difficult this will be for you. But I know firsthand how intelligent, and proactive, and loving you both are. And I absolutely believe that those qualities will make all the difference in Roger's treatment. The medical system will do the rest. And, in the meantime, all of us who love you are here, ready to help, listen, and share in the hope and anger and fear and--I predict--mind-boggling goofiness that is almost guaranteed to accompany your progress through treatment. I love you both.
ReplyDeleteTJ and I were devastated to hear this news. You are in our thoughts and prayers as you take this journey. Take comfort in knowing you have a tremendous support system in family and friends. The initial shock will wear off and you'll get up every day and do what has to be done. We can't worry about tomorrow and things that we don't know. We can only handle the things we know. There's a diagnosis and there's a treatment plan. One day at a time. Julie and I can tell you that after a bit you'll be so sick of talking about cancer and having it consume and define your life. TJ's got his LIVESTRONG bracelet on for Roger. We're here whenever you need us. Lots of love coming your way!
ReplyDeleteTracee and TJ