Saturday, July 23, 2011

Another Surgery...

 I don't know the dates or details yet as my oncologist and surgeon are working that out.   They did an outpatient procedure with an injection yesterday to shut down my remaining ovary.  We are hoping that decrease the pain while I await surgery.  I am trying to put it off so that I can go on the cancer survivors kayaking retreat I mentioned.  I am supposed to leave next Sunday...and despite pain....I WANT TO GO SO BADLY~

My CT was inconclusive (as expected) regarding any cancer involvement...but showed large cysts(over 2 inches) again on my ovary and a few other things that need to come out.  Last August I was taken in for emergency surgery because of ascites and severe ovary pain. That was the beginning of a pretty bad spiral that I barely made it through.  It sounds routine, but my body is so ravaged inside that it isn't a small surgery like it would be for someone else.  That is typically done laparoscopic, but I am no longer a candidate for those because of all the scarring and chaos in  my abdomen.   I will likely be cut open following my larger scar from breast area to pubic bone as usual.  I will know for sure next week.  I was supposed to have a total hysterectomy with my first heated chemo super surgery, but after coersion the doctor allowed me to keep those organs in the miracle chance that I might heal enough to have another child someday.  With all that has happened, that is no longer an option and it is a sore loss for our family.  We consider ourselves so blessed to have the amazing girls that we do.   In an effort to save my ovaries from the cancer, the surgeon sliced off the entire outside (or peeled) them and then poured the heated chemo on them that caused severe burns.  THey have tried to heal, but the damage was too great.  I tried to keep them... obvoiusly shouldn't have.  I am so glad I am stronger now than the last time I had surgery.  I will let you know the details as they evolve.  We will not know if there is more cancer until the surgery, after the pathology is determined.  I am convinced there won't be cancer...and that this is just another bump in my road to recovery.

9 comments:

Laura Price said...

Thinking of you, Shanda! I'll be praying for a successful surgery....you can make it through this. :)

Laurene said...

I also am convinced it's not more cancer. It all makes total sense to me. What a thrill it will be for you on that kayaking trip! Our prayers are constant for your well being.

Gloria said...

My prayers are with you!! I so enjoy reading your blog and pray that your prayers will be answered!! It might be a while before we see each other since I am having my right knee replaced on Aug. 4th.

reverseoreo said...

Sorry you have to go thru this. It was a hard surgery for me even toknow that I would never have any of my ouw children.It took me a while to recover mentaly and physically. I will be praying for you and your family. I will keep in touch with your mom and your husband so I will know how to help and when.

Meg said...

I hope you get to go to your retreat! So sorry to hear you've been in pain. We are thinking of you and your family and sending lots of love your way!

JanaeWheeler said...

When u go rafting remember don't drink the water!!

Jillian said...

Shanda, I will be praying for this surgery & for your continuing bravery, attitude and everything you are showing the rest of the world. You are such an awesome warrior! God will protect you, and those beautiful children. My heart aches with you and the finality of the upcoming events. Prayers all around! It was a pleasure meeting you at 7 brides. Alexis's site is http://jilld253.wordpress.com/ Prayers & hope for each moment!

Auna Leigh said...

For real... Another lame surgery. I'm so bummed but like you said I'm sure it's just a bump in the road. I'm sorry you're in such great pain but I am so glad you are LIVInG again! Ur beautiful. Let me know how things go. I'll stalk Larry as usual and tell him not to get all sympathetic and go get kidney stones!!! Love ya!!

tchu2ski said...

Does your doctor use an MRI in his treatment? I know that he has talked with another surgical oncologist that uses MRIs instead of the CT scan with great results.