The good news is that the lymph nodes are free and clear of any cancer matter, the bad news is that the borders around where they removed the ureter are not totally clean. In other words, when they remove tissue, they examine not only the tissue for cancer, but the borders of where the tissue was cut from. Mom's borders show evidence that some microscopic cancer cells are still in the fatty tissue around where the ureter was (I bet she's wishing she'd gotten liposuction while they were in there like we all told her to).
However the fact that this didn't travel to the lymph nodes, and that now the closest lymph nodes are out is a very good thing.
Dr. K is going to facilitate an appointment with an oncologist in 5-6 weeks once she is well healed. She will most likely need to have a few rounds of intravenous chemotherapy for what Dr. K calls, an "insurance policy." She is so young and can definitely beat this, so he said we will continue to go full steam ahead and act aggressively.
Mom asked, "am I going to lose my hair?" And the answer is probably, yes. So Trixie (cousin, hair-stylist, and cancer-ass-kicker), we'll be calling on your assistance for some post-holiday pre-chemo wig expertise!
So this isn't exactly what we wanted to hear, but not the worst case scenario either. Mom is understandably disappointed, but I just keep encouraging her to take it one day at a time, and just focus on resting and regaining strength so when it's time to start chemo, she's ready.
Otherwise Mom is still feeling quite tired and rests a lot, so keeping calls to the house at a minimum is appreciated. That's not to say people can't call to offer assistance or whatnot, but she's not quite up for visits or chats. Those will have to wait another week or two!
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5 comments:
I'm thinking black bob a la Pulp Fiction.....
"It was a teenage wedding, and the old folks wished 'em well
You could see that Pierre did truly love the mademoiselle
And now the young monsieur and madame have rung the chapel bell
"C'est la vie," say the old folks, "It goes to show you never can tell"
Stupid cancer. Glad the lymph nodes are clear - that is the most important thing, if you ask me! :)
xoxoxo
Hair schmair, it grows back. Just look at Trixie's beautiful locks. We only care that you get the best of care, and the best treatment possible to beat this thing. Clear lymph nodes are good. The medical miracles they can perform now give us hope for a bright future. Hang in there Babette.
I my hair weren't the wrong color, so split at the ends, and so thin, I'd cut it all off right now to make you a wig. But I will, if you want it!!!
Love you much!
Claire
Lizzie,
With a gorgeous face like yours, WHO NEEDS HAIR???
LOVE,
MINDY
Well alls I got to say is that I had a chance to talk with Elisabeth today....and it was the bestest part of my whole entire week. Thank you a mess of a bunch Lady....I am soso as happy as you that you're home. Loooooovedad.
I talked to Mom today as well, and she said that it's times like these when she really feels the love around her. She really appreciates everyone offering up their services (Tom Vincent deserves shout-out of the day!) so I just wanted to pass that message along.
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