Thursday, September 22, 2011

It begins...

I'm now on clear liquids and get the pleasure of starting a bowel prep. I check in at noon but will have the surgery tomorrow around 3pm. The dr will follow my same huge incision down my stomach and will cut out any tumors or anything that looks cancerous. He will drain the ascites (fluid) that has been building up again..and will send all of that off for pathology. He will also remove tons of adhesions and do a full hysterectomy this time. (I put it off as long as I could...and I am so sad about this...but has to be done now.) The Dr. will await pathology and decide if I need the Heated chemo pumped inside again or what else needs removed. The heated chemo is SO hard on the organs and abdomen. It basically creates severe burning on everything it touches and causes so much trauma. That is why it won't be used unless necessary. I know some peole had asked me why not just do it anyway.

Other than the hysterectomy, I have done this surgery 2ce before...and unfortunately KNOW all that can happen. I am trying to slow my mind from having flashbacks of all of the times I was hanging on for life after the last one. Not because of cancer, but because of surgical complications, etc. I coded the first time I had this surgery and was found in my room with no pulse by the cna trying to get my blood pressure. That was insanely scary...and I'd rather not repeat it. The last time I had this surgery, I tanked about a week in and had so many blood transfusions and ended up on a feeding tube and in serious condition for months. But whatever it is...I will do it. I'll do it 50 more times if I need to. I take one look at my girls and know I would do ANYTHING for the chance to raise them. I have to say, though...that I think I would rather NOT know what I am getting myself into. Oh well. :)

I am SO humbled and grateful for yor prayers. Thank you! Thank you! Please also pray for my doctors that they will be able to be alert, thorough, and that they will be guided to do what is needed and make sound decisions. My amazing mom will be taking care of my girls and Larry will be updating you from the hospital as it unfolds.

10 comments:

Andrea J said...

I sobbed, not a little, when I read this. It's so true though, life, and our families are so precious and I'm so glad you know that so clearly, thanks for sharing your vision.

Halfords said...

I love you, Shanda! I am thinking and praying for you! You are amazing!!

Dan and Bec said...

Hi Shanda, I've let my brother and parents know and we will be sending up lots of prayers for you this weekend!!! Becky (Breinholt) Barnhurst

Michelle said...

Shanda, you are amazing. You will get through this. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Michelle Baird and fam

Laurene said...

We hope and pray you can "shake it off" tonight: relax and have a peaceful long night's sleep. Being in good hands, those who know your history is a big plus. Your fierce determination and love will see you through. We will be ever prayerful and mindful of you every step of the way. Love you Shanda. Keep smiling.
:)

Darger Party of 3 said...

Shanda thank you for sharing your life and experiences with everyone. You are in my constant prayers and so is your family. Positivity coming your way. All the best! Miracles happen (this is not news to you)! :)

adventure chica said...

Limbo, hearing your story last month inspired me even more to be positive and laugh as much as possible. You are very courageous and strong. From my family to yours we send loving thoughts and healing prayers. Get beter very soon. We have a kayak date next summer!
love, hot rod

Natalie said...

Our prayers are with you and your family. Your courage and faith are such great examples to many, but most importantly to your sweet girls. I miss those Ohio days when we'd talk outside our houses with our babies. You are an elect lady!

Lillian Callister said...

Praying for you, your sweet family and the doctors who are caring for you!

Lexie said...

Thinking of you tonight and praying that everything is over and went well. We love you!