Update on Mom/Donna (originally posted 2/4/2009)

So, for the family, and my friends who have been asking, here's the latest update on Mom.

The surgery went as well as we could have hoped for, based on what they found.

The problem was in her sigmoid colon (the part that leads directly to the rectum), it was very constricted. It turned out there was a large tumor growing around that part, which explains the constriction.

Also, the doctors found that the cancer has spread some more. There are now 11 tumors on her liver, where 2 years ago there were 2. There is a tumor growing on the back side of the bladder, and another deep in her pelvis. They chose not to remove any of the other spots because they could not reach everything down in her pelvis, and if they do not remove the entire tumor, it will grow back faster and bigger than it was originally.

OK, now some good news.

The pathology report so far shows that the tumors are all carcinoid tumors, which makes perfect sense, because she has carcinoid syndrome. This is good, because it means that even though the cancer is spreading, it is not growing more malignant.

Also, they were able to connect the remaining part of the colon to the rectum, so...no colostomy bag! The surgeon did say that when the cancer causes another problem like the one she had, there probably won't be an option, she will almost definitely have a colostomy bag at that point. But, that should be a couple of years down the road.

So for right now, they are discussing options. Obviously, the treatment course they have been pursuing hasn't been working. They are discussing the ideas of chemotherapy, possible radiation, experimental treatments, etc. Once they have decided on a course of action, I will let everyone know.

For now, we really are appreciating everyone's prayers. This has frankly been one of the most difficult things we have ever gone through, and we would not be able to be holding together without everyone's love and support. And it's not over, its a very long road. Please continue to hold our family in your prayers, becuase we are all struggling.

Thanks.