Tuesday, September 8, 2009

September 8, 2009

I am not sure how to start..... I saw the Doc. today, and got bad news. Despite the recent treatments, I still have cancer, the bad kind that tries to burrow through the bladder muscle wall (now weakened by treatments) and set up colonies in my other organs. He couldn't see anything but inflammation, however, he took random samples, and the cancer was found by the pathologist.

The good news, the cat scan found nothing suspicious in my other organs.

The bad news, trying to save my bladder seems foolhardy at this point. For the best chance to stay alive, the bladder must go. This will likely be scheduled for the first part of October.

Needless to say, I am very disappointed.

7 comments:

pdurant said...

To have been through the grueling surgeries, subsequent BCG treatment and have this results is beyond disappointing...but thank goodness the cancer was found. It could have been there and not found which (hard to imagine I know) would have been worse.

You now know for certain the correct course of action. The uncertainty that drove you crazy for many months is gone - though the choice of how to replace the bladder will no doubt bring more uncertainty as to method/type.

It is hard to look at the bright side of things, but as you have said many, many times, you have to go with what you got.

I wish we could be there to help - I feel badly that you are so far from family. But, I also feel badly that coming home for treatment messed things up with your insurance company.

You will mourn what is going to be lost and suffer more. But as and when you can, try to focus on the good odds given you by the doctor if you have your bladder removed.

During the dark days of Tim's and Luke's treatments, surgeries and more surgeries over the course of several years, I wondered often if we would ever get through the tunnel - or would it all end in...well, you know. Looking back I still don't know how we got through....but we did it one day at a time and you will too.

(Sorry if this seems like a cheesy pep talk but please know we are all praying for you and cheering you on from the sidelines!)

Love you,

P

WINpres03 said...

Sometimes it is easier to have tough decisions made for us. Prayers are with you.

Hugs, Sharon & Dick

JC said...

Thanks for the support. I know that I must learn to look on the sunny side, but am not able to right now. I am still trying to wrap my mind around what is coming.

Anyway, it is what it is,and I am sure that I will manage.

Claudia said...

I'm at a loss for words, but just know I will be there for you. The decision has been made so at least you can inch forward and focus on the next step.

Barbara and Ron said...

I am so sorry that all the treatment and efforts came to naught. I can only imagine how you must be feeling.

Hugs,
Barbara and Ron

JC said...

Thanks to all for the encouragement, If it weren't for my family and friends, I don't think that I could get through this.

Anonymous said...

JC,

I'm so sorry and wish there was more I could do to ease your suffering. I hate that you are so far away, but understand your need to be home.

Sorry I was late in getting this news, but know I am praying for you and for widsom for your doctors.

Love you, bro!

JC