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Schedule
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Jun 28, 2011 - 8:36 am
I met with the thoracic surgeon yesterday and I finally have a schedule...Pulmonary Function test tomorrow, pre-op testing on Friday. Wednesday the 6th they will be doing a bronchoscopy for the lymph nodes that show activity and he will also be doing a VATS wedge resection of the large tumor in my right lung. Nothing for the left lung at this time as they are most concerned with the right lung. I saw the CT and PET scan results, it's amazing to see what the doctors are seeing and scary at the same time. I like the doctor who is performing the surgery, he is the same one who did this procedure on my brother several years ago. He did say that he doubted he would be able to get the entire tumor but he couldn't be positive until he was doing the procedure. The only thing I didn't like was when he started talking about the special staples and glue they would be using to seal the lung. I should only be in the hospital overnight while the lung drains and they watch for any air leaks. He said he might get the results the same day, if not then within 2 days. I'm sure I will be seeing my oncologist shortly after the results are in to discuss chemo. I'm feeling a little better now that I finally have a schedule and we are moving forward. It's the sitting around doing nothing that scares me, and many of you also I'm sure. I want to get started ASAP so we can get rid of this again. I hope everyone is feeling well and having a great day. |
Joined: Sep 2006
Sched
Glenna, any time they are doing surgery, strangely enough, I am a happy camper. I suppose it is because it means they are taking out the nasty stuff or, in your case, perhaps, taking out as much as they can, almost always a good thing, I would think.
So the news sounds good to me, my friend. Once again, with cancer it is strange what we wish for :).
Take care,
Joe
Joined: May 2009
Joe
Strangely enough I feel the same way as you, operate!! He sounded rather doubtful that he would be able to get it all but I'll be happy to have as much removed as possible. Less cancer for the chemo to have to get rid of.
Thank you Joe, you have been a good friend since the first time I posted 2 years ago. You always know what to say to relieve my fears.
Stay well,
Glenna
Joined: Jan 2011
Surgery
I agree with Joe. I think surgery is a good thing. I think it means they are hopeful they can get it that way. All the best to you with the tests. I know you will come through with flying colors.
Joined: May 2011
surgery
In my case surgery became impossible. I wish it could have been totally removed and outa here. Fortunately there are more options and I'll have to settle for remission. I'll accept that and move on. I sure hope they get it all and you can move on too.
Joined: May 2009
Alan
I've been in remission for almost 2 years from the first battle with lung and laryngeal cancer and my only hope now is for remission again since I have it in both lungs and the lymph nodes in the center of my lungs. If you look at my CT or PET scans it looks like a game of connect the dots - lol.
I'm sorry that yours is inoperable also but remission may buy us both enough time that they will come up with new drugs or treatments so we can both beat this.
My best to you,
Glenna
Joined: May 2009
Diane
Yes, I'm actually looking forward to surgery, not the surgery itself but the fact that they will be removing some of the tumor. I'm more nervous about the PFT, not sure how well I will do with that, between having emphysema and tumors in both lungs I know it won't be as good as I'd like it to be.
I hope you are doing well,
Glenna
Joined: May 2010
Keeping my toes and fingers
Keeping my toes and fingers crossed for you Glenna. Let's hope once he gets in there he can really do some damage to that nasty tumor! You are always in my thoughts and prayers.
Anita
Joined: May 2009
Glenna
Surgery sounds good to me also, and the fact that he can get to it is great via the vats. Do you do any kind of breathing exercises? I know that before my surgery I had to have the PFT and did breathing exercises before hand to make sure I could pass for surgery. I hope your PFT comes out good. I also know that the breathing can be improved with the breathing exercises. I know when I started my breathing was shallow and now its good. I wish you well. Lori
Joined: Aug 2008
Glenna
I am also in favor of plans and surgery. Best of luck
Joined: Jan 2011
Re:PFT
Glenna I had two of these. My advice is to use your spirometer or do other breathing exercises before the test. That way your deep breathing will come more easily. I mean JUST before the test. I also have emphysema but managed okay.
Joined: Dec 2009
Prayers
Glenna, Just want you to know will be praying they get all of this tumor out and you have a quick recovery and a long remission....... The best to you ... Dan
Joined: Jul 2010
Glenna, My thoughts, heart
Glenna,
My thoughts, heart and prayers are with you. You are a valiant warrior, and I am also glad to know that there is a plan!
I pray that your medical team will be guided by God's love and power. That they are able to get as much as humanly possible, and that you heal quickly and with the least amount of pain or discomfort.
Blessings upon you,
Lucy
Joined: Sep 2010
glenna
I was so sorry to read that the cancer has returned. I'm glad you have a good plan and I wish all the best for you--I will be sending healing thoughts your way.
Karen
Joined: Feb 2011
Im so glad there is a plan
The waiting is awful, so happy things are moving for you now. You beat the beast before so now you know what you have to do to beat it again.
Your cheerleaders are here routing for you. Continue to stay postive! Remember that little engine that couldnt, well Glenna, I know thats you the fighter!!
Lots of prayers your way....
Joined: Apr 2010
I'm glad there is a plan.
I'm glad there is a plan. As your said, the waiting is very hard. When you have things to do, your mind is occupied. That has always been best for me. Keeping you in my thoughts.
Kim
Joined: May 2011
plans
Hi glenna, connect the dots? Did you ever investigate Proton Therapy? It's a highly touted form of highly accurate radiation. There are only 9 sites in the U.S. that have it.So you are right about new treatments coming along to help us. It seems to evolve quickly. I hope you do great, I know you will. Alan
Joined: Apr 2011
Glenna
I am so glad they are moving quickly! I hope everything went well on your PFT and they can continue with the plan. You are in my thoughts and I pray daily for you to keep strong. You are an inspiration! God bless
Cheryl
Joined: Apr 2011
Glenna
I am so glad they are moving quickly! I hope everything went well on your PFT and they can continue with the plan. You are in my thoughts and I pray daily for you to keep strong. You are an inspiration! God bless
Cheryl
Joined: May 2009
Cheryl
Unfortunately everything has changed since I posted this. Surgery was cancelled because my lung function was poor. The surgeon is scheduling an appointment for me to see a Pulmonologist before he will proceed. Wished they'd hurry up with my appointments because I hate sitting around doing nothing while these tumors could be growing.
Trying to stay positive and have patience :)
Glenna
Joined: May 2009
Glenna
Hello Glenna, I am so sorry for the delay. The pulmologist should be able to help get your breathing better. I know that there is lung rehab and hopfully that will help get your lung function up. Lori
Joined: Apr 2011
PFT...
Sorry to hear that Glenna! I know it probably took the wind out of your sails but just keep that positive attitude that you have. I hope that they get you into the pulmonologist quickly and get your breathing stronger. Meanwhile, keep doing your lung exercises at home a few times aday. I did the ones that were posted on youtube and found them to be easily adapted to whatever comfortable level I was able to do. Did they tell you how far off your levels were to be acceptable? I have confidence that you will exceed your lung function needed for sugery, with your strength and determination. One day at a time.....goal=surgery. I am sending positive thoughts and lifting you up in prayer. Be well my friend. Cheryl
Joined: Apr 2011
PFT...
Sorry to hear that Glenna! I know it probably took the wind out of your sails but just keep that positive attitude that you have. I hope that they get you into the pulmonologist quickly and get your breathing stronger. Meanwhile, keep doing your lung exercises at home a few times aday. I did the ones that were posted on youtube and found them to be easily adapted to whatever comfortable level I was able to do. Did they tell you how far off your levels were to be acceptable? I have confidence that you will exceed your lung function needed for sugery, with your strength and determination. One day at a time.....goal=surgery. I am sending positive thoughts and lifting you up in prayer. Be well my friend. Cheryl
Joined: Apr 2011
Glenna
Thinking of you and sending good vibes your way. I am hoping that things are progressing in a positive manner for you. The waiting is the hardest. Prayers to you. Cheryl
Joined: Jun 2010
Glenna
Always thinking of you. Sorry that you have to fight this again - Judy
Joined: May 2009
Thank you all...
I want to thank you all for your kind words and inspiration. My surgery was cancelled because of the poor lung function test. Surgeon wanted me to see a pulmonologist before he would operate. Saw the pulmonologist last Wednesday and he said my lungs were only operating at 25% because of the emphysema, scar tissue and tumors. He went over all the scans with me and explained a lot of things to me which made me feel much better. I am supposed to call him back today to see if the surgery is rescheduled.
Hoping to get answers soon and I will keep you all updated.
Thank you all again and I hope you are all doing great!!!
Glenna
Joined: Feb 2011
Thanks for the update
Was thinking about you last night and was wondering why we havn't heard from you in awhile.
Im happy that the Doc. explained and made things more clear.
Were here for you with lots of Internet Hugs your way :)
Joined: May 2010
I am praying that surgery
I am praying that surgery will be possible for you soon Glenna. Keep us posted dear one.
Joined: Feb 2007
Hoping
That the surgeons get things on track and moving for you! :)