Saturday, June 15, 2013

2nd biopsy done!

This is a test post via email, hope it works!

PET scan results showed up right before surgeon appointment yesterday. The "very large" mass had grown, there is a possibility of a small spot of lymphoma in stomach, but the overall message is that we needed the more invasive chest biopsy. It also became apparent that the 1st biopsy was hard to read because the inside of the mass is all dead tissue. This info coupled with the fact that The pain has been increasing, prompted my surgeon for sending me to the ER so we could do biopsy as soon as possible (not necessarily an emergency, but we need to get moving in this process!).

At 715pm last night I went into OR for 2nd biopsy, this time with general anesthesia. The procedure took 3 hours, because they kept having to take out more and more tissue from the mass. When all was said and done, about 2/3 of the mass was removed late last night! I've been awake and slowly regaining independence since 630 this morning (they removed the chest tube that was there to suction out any liquid), walked to bathroom on my own (yay), we're waiting on chest X-rays so I can walk around floor.

The pain was difficult to deal with last night, but now we have it managed with
Combo of IV meds and pills. Current plan is for me to leave today, and for pathology to look at new samples on Monday!

7 comments:

  1. Thank you,Joelle, for keeping us posted.
    Glad to hear you are done with the biopsy.
    Wish you a prompt recovery,sweetie. A big
    hug to you. Rina

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  2. Even happier now to know that your family is in town. I'm sure it is a relief to them and to you and Gabo. And beautiful Sara looked happy as a clam in the picture with your folks. Please let us know if there is anything we can do. Otherwise, we'll keep the prayers and good wishes flowing. Love you! ~T

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    Replies
    1. Thanks Trish! Yeah, she's been having a great time!

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  3. WOW! Such a huge update! I am so glad that they were able to remove so much of the mass!! I hope you are as comfortabe as possible and that you can relax a little on Father's Day with all those great Dad's hanging around :D XOXO

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  4. Hi Joelle. Soon the fight will begin. Keep the faith, positiveness, make the most of the family and friends around you. They were my energy boost when I needed them. As soon as you start the chemos. If I may, I used a lot of visualization. I love dolphins and I saw them fighting with the chemo as my warriors destroying everything bad inside me. There is a lot o people praying for you and your entire family. Hugs Elvia

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  5. Joelle, positiva siempre! Te mantendré en mis oraciones. Un abrazo !!!

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31 year old navigating life with husband and almost-2-years-old daughter :)