On Monday we had a call with the spine surgeon (or officially, an orthopedic surgeon who "specializes in treating musculoskeletal cancers, including primary and metastatic bone cancer") He followed up on the CT Scan I did in the city last week, which just verified the scan from 10/31...I have three fractures caused by radiation. The placement and combination of the fractures is apparently incredibly rare, maybe less than a dozen people.
He feels there is some urgency to stabilize the area so that the spine doesn't shift and cause a whole host of really bad, irreversible problems. Additionally, its his belief that this help to alleviate the pain.
Another surgery. It was a lot to take in. When it was first mentioned on the 5th, I was completely surprised to even be talking about surgery, since back in July when I met with an orthopedic specialist she said there was nothing she could do and I would likely live with it unresolved for the rest of my life. And that was when I only had one fracture!
He patiently answered all of our questions (at least the ones we could formulate) and then suggested December 20th as the surgery date. Knowing I would be in the hospital for several days after, I didn't want to risk missing Christmas. After weighing all the high-stakes pros and cons, we opted to wait a week and do it on December 27th.
I spent a couple days being angry that this is being asked of me. I was trying to count how many surgeries I've had, but then I wondered about the difference between a surgery and a procedure. Google says the distinction is mainly whether there is an incision. That will make this my 8th surgery; the number of procedures is at least twice that.
I also drove to NY for an MRI, I hadn't had one since July. This sweet guy opted to come with me for the four hours in the car and the hour plus sitting in the waiting room alone while I was in the test. I was thrilled to have his company.
I have made the decision to enjoy today, to delight in all things Christmas, to soak in family time and be grateful for the absolute gift of today.
We have been shown such love and support. Thank you for your faithful prayers.
I too wish this wasn’t being asked of you, friend. I pray for you often and consistently and there’s always a sense of peace that comes over me when I pray for you because I know you are entirely precious to God and He cares so deeply for His own. You are His. Praying for a peaceful, joy-filled Christmas for you and your sweet family. As always, sending love across the miles.
ReplyDeleteI am praying that you can soak in this season with your family as you keep your eyes on Jesus in the midst of something that is so hard and seems so unfair. So much love to you!
ReplyDeleteLisa, I am praying for you now and will continue to pray for you through your surgery on the 27th. I pray that this next week will be filled with Joy that comes from having your eyes on Christ and from your beautiful family. And also from all the prayers that are surrounding you!
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