Surgery 12/14

Wishing you the best outcomes
John,

I can understand how your medical background can have both positive and negative aspects when contemplating surgery. I know the day before my Ivor Lewis procedure, I had some somber thoughts. But then I had the following thought process:

I had heard the old stories of “he just went in for a simple operation and things went wrong” ….. But this surgery is not simple. They expect things to be complicated.

I am sure the medical team that is assigned to these types of surgery has a whole different skill set then the ones who do hernia repair and gall bladder removal. I am sure there is a long check list and many people looking over other people’s shoulders to insure things are done right. And when you leave surgery you get a whole different level of observation and care until they are sure you are stable.

My procedure was more invasive then the one you are about to receive and the only complication I had was a wound infection in the hospital. So my advice to anyone having surgery these days is; when you are in the hospital and you see a medical professional come into your room without washing their hands and they are about to touch you, say “did you wash your hands?” If they act insulted don’t let them touch you.

I will be praying that all goes well on Tuesday; the pathology and anastomosis results are positive, and you are back to helping other people quickly.

Best Regards,

Paul Adams
McCormick, South Carolina

DX 10/22/2009 T2N1M0 Stage IIB
12/03/2009 Ivor Lewis
2/8 through 6/14/2010 Adjuvant Chemo Cisplatin, Epirubicin, 5 FU
6/21/2010 CT Scan NED

Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are here we might as well dance!

John, Wishing you the best
John, Wishing you the best of surgeries and a quick recovery. My husband's surgery was Aug 16, so the waiting for surgery is very fresh on our minds. Although we were scared we also knew we were blessed to be a surgical candidate. I'm sure you have a lot of anxiety at this point, which is normal. Many on this board have done it, and are here to tell you that you can do it, too. We will look forward to hearing from you to let us know how you are doing. Linda

My prayers are with you
Dr. John, my prayers are with you while you face and have your surgery. You have done your research, are having the MIE, and I am so grateful your future is looking good.

God Bless,

Linda

Congratulations on getting to have surgery
Glad you can have an MIE. Before you leave the hospital, you will be eating food again. Listen to the advices of this Board about frequent small meals, chewing well, avoiding mixing water with meals, staying hydrated. This should reduce any "dumping" episodes. But it is a learning situation. What works for one usually works for another but there are always exceptions. My husband continued to lose weight after his Ivor Lewis procedure. Had a hard time adjusting to small meals, etc.; however, doing much better and gaining weight now. He absolutely refused Ensure, Boost or any other protein drinks. Said it didn't taste good and refused it. Out of character for him. Anyway, he has found that he can eat steak [filet] very well, soups, vegetables, and pop corn. He's bought three new suits, a sports coat, shirts, etc. Loves his new weight. Doctors are very pleased. So. Hopefully, your bumps in the road will be small to non-existent; however, it does get better. Best of luck to you, and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!