We just returned from the biopsy at Florida Hospital and the news is both good and bad. Mostly good. They did indeed remove a lump which the Dr confirms as cancer, however, he feels that he got it all. Now the tricky part will be determined through the actual study of the lump. If this lump were locate in the breast proper they would have removed the breast and been done with it. Since the growth was so tight against the sternum and nestled against tissue and muscle there is a slight possibility that it could have spread. We will know more when the study is completed in a couple of days.
He feels that this is not a serious cancer, if you could actually say that about cancer, and we are schedule for a follow up next week with him as well as an initial appt with an oncologist to discuss our options for follow up. A mastectomy may be required in which case he feels that will be all that is needed. Although we are happy to have these initial reports and tests concluded we are again in a hurry up and wait defense.
Mom has responded to the news well and went back to her room to get some well needed and deserved rest. She did not sleep at all last night and I know she is happy to have this initial procedure behind her. She continues to gain strength and this procedure should not cause any addition setbacks other than her missing a few days of PT.
We are now in the process of collecting information to determine our options for home care and hope to bring Mom home sometime as early as Monday of next week. She will continue to need PT and some care but is getting around well enough that she should be able to do fine with a few minor home alterations which she, needless to say if you know Mom, is not too happy about. Our main goal now is to try and create an environment that is comfortable and nurturing to her recovery so that moving forward she can continue with a good quality of life. I don't have to tell you she is stubborn but we need to continue to remind her to make use of the tools available to her. When I arrived this morning at 5 AM to pick her up I was informed that they found her on the floor again last night when she decided to get up without her walker and without calling for help. She is determined to fight for her total independence so we need to keep an eye on her.
I am sure that she will be sleepy and worn out the next day or two. Your calls and cards and flowers continue to work wonders for her spirit. A visit from Pastor Jared yesterday was well received as well. She has been able to look at her Facebook and her email so feel free to drop her a not at either.
The next time I speak to you all I should have more definitive news to report. In the meantime prayers are welcomed and appreciated.
God bless and much love!.
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