How do you absorb THAT? We sat in the doctor's office looking at each other, trying to figure out whether we really heard what the doctor had said. But the silence that filled the room, and the tears that filled my eyes, were, none-the-less, real. The results were in: The tumor that had been scraped out of my husbands bladder had indeed passed through the bladder wall and invaded the surrounding muscle. And it was positive for that feared enemy... cancer - stage III in all effects due to the enlarged kidney and ureter that remain.
Since that day in November, Rob has experienced so many emotional roller coaster rides that he finds it hard some days to stand with the firm footing of knowing which path to follow. His choices aren't enough of a variety for either of us right now, especially in lieu of the time one needs to be made.
But this afternoon, Rob's family doctor for 38+ years gave him some good and honest advice: "Give yourself every chance you can, Robert."
So I imagine that even though the road ahead is unknown and sprinkled with fear, surgery is going to give him that precious "chance." Although, he is holding on to the fact that he reserves the right to change his mind. Yes, this is still the Rob I know and love! :)
Rob is strong, has a firm foundation of faith in our Lord, and is filled with His peace. He is being comforted from within, and it's now holding him steady on the outside, too. He is embracing life for all it's worth! It's going to be a long and unknown road that lies ahead, but God is in charge of it all, and we're good with that. Rob's strength and continuing sense of humor amidst these trials so amaze me. He is one awesome man!
The surgery is scheduled for Thursday, January 10th. I will be blogging daily at that point as I am able, to keep you informed about Rob, the surgery, recovery, results, prayer requests, etc. Until then, I may make an appearance or two here. I will try to be mostly factual, although writing is my release from the real world... or to the real world... or both. ;) Please bear with my cup running over...
Thanking you in advance for the love and prayers and support... It means the world to us both, and we love you all more than words can say.
In Love and In Peace *
I look forward to reading your journey...thank you for sharing with us all...love you
ReplyDeleteI will do what I can for you Rob old friend!!! Eric Sander Kingston Schayel
ReplyDeleteRob, I fought breast cancer in my own way and it is ten years and I beat it even though the doctors didn't think I could without following their protocol. The best way is to inform yourself of all treatments they want to do, you know your body, you know how it reacts, have confidence in yourself and take charge. I didn't do the chemo they insisted I needed because I had three tumors and my one lymph node was cancerous. But my heart has problems and both parents have passed as well as my brother due to heart problems so when I read that chemo would strain my heart I said no. They were shocked, but I knew that I would not make it if they put strain on my heart with chemo. I told them to cut it all out, then we would discuss it. I was lucky that I had large breast so they got clean margins. Because of the lymph node they removed all from my right side. My cancer was invasive and fast growing and hormone positive which meant I had to stop all hormones from functioning. Because of the large surgery they didn't want anymore for a while so to stop my hormones and put me in menopause I took Luprin shots which shut everything down. I also decided to take the tamoxifen for two years then change to aromisen which would stop cancer from growing. In six months I had a full hysterectomy so I could stop the Luprin shots which had caused my diabetes and heart some problems and followed through with the other two drugs. I told you all this so you can see that knowing the drugs, the interactions and your own knowledge of your body and being well informed can be what keeps you alive.
ReplyDeleteSo when you are through with surgery, get a copy of all tests, reports, and doctor notes. It is easier to understand the type of cancer and growth in your own time, away from the doctor, it is easier to absorb when you can read it. If you can bring a laptop, most hospitals have free internet, and you can look up information. If you ever need help just text me.
But remember the best healing comes from within, you have a beautiful wife who loves you and so many family and friends praying for you to keep a positive outlook. You are strong and want to live! I also prayed for guidance and I did it alone, so I have confidence that you will come through this. You will be amazed how many people you know have actually fought cancer, I was.
Remember we are all praying for you and are here if you need us.
Love to you both, Joan