When we arrived at the hospital today (7/7/08) to meet with our surgeon for the first time, the hospital administrator happened to overhear us trying to figure out where to go. Headed in our direction, she offered to escort us personally. In route, she was telling us all about Dr. Imagawa (head of the pancreas unit and our new doctor), including his education, background, experience in the field of pancreatic surgery, his team, and himself personally as a concerned and conscientious person. By the time we got to the reception area, she introduced us to the receptionist as VIP clients. The best part was the level of confidence we gained in our new doctor: And she is absolutely correct.
Even though Diane has a pre-cancer diagnosis, it will eventually become cancer; therefore, the only alternative is surgery (whipple procedure). This is a very serious and extensive surgery (about 6 to 8 hours) and she will be hospitalized for 4 weeks (2 in the hospital, and 2 in a outpatient nursing facility). She will be able to walk Katie in about 6 weeks from the surgery.
There is a 70 to 80 percent chance she will not become diabetic, and assuming they get all the pre-cancer cells, she will be 90% cancer free.
Surgery is scheduled for July 23rd. Diane's doing very well, considering. Diane gives her love to all and you keep good thoughts. Jeff
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
5 comments:
Thanks for keeping the updates coming Dad. See you guys at lunch tomorrow.
Love,
Marc
Jeff, thanks so much for the update. Let Diane know that we are thinking of her and praying for her speedy recovery from the upcoming surgery.
If the two of you feel up to it, we would love to get together (we can come to see you) with you prior to the 16th (we will be out of town between the 16th and the 24th). Sorry we weren't able to go to lunch the day you were in the area. DRATS!! Give us a call if you feel like it, our schedule is typically flexible.
Michael and Georgia
Hi Diane and Jeff-
We are so happy to hear your prognosis is so bright. To be 90% cancer free right out of the gate will be incredible. It sounds like you have a great team in your corner working to get you well. To have that level of confidence in addition to the support you are receiving from all around you, it seems like most of the battle is already won. Stay positive, keep your eye on the finish line, and we know everything will turn out great. Take care and know you will be walking Katie in no time.
Sincerely, Kurt and Evey
Diane and Jeff
I will be checking your blog every day. Know that you will be in my prayers everyday and Jim and I are here if you need us for anything. This will all be over before you know it and you guys will be in Bishop with Katie running up the creek in no time.
We love you both
Glenna and Jim
That sounds like a very positive prognosis for your surgery outcome. It also bodes well that you have so much confidence in your surgeon and the staff. I will be thinking of you and praying for a successful surgery.
Love,
Eric
Post a Comment