The news was not positive. The cancer had spread to 12 inguinal lymph nodes and 10 pelvic lymph nodes. He also had two other tumours in his leg, one near the primary site and one in his thigh muscle. There is a chance that it has already started spreading up through his abdomen, so he'll need more tests soon.
The swelling was because his drains were removed too soon. Now it seems he might have an infection in his lower abdomen, in the skin, and he's been given antibiotics just in case while we wait for that result. He's also been taped tightly across the abdomen and they might put in a new drain using ultrasound to position it properly. He can't start radiation until after the swelling and infection are under control. Oh, and there is another mole on his side that I pointed out to her that has changed just recently. She said she's not going to ignore it, but that she won't do anything about it now because with the lymph nodes gone and a possible infection, she doesn't want to cut in to him and cause any more problems.
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Comments
somegalfromcan
Posted on: 12/20/2011 23:38
Mists - I am sorry to hear this news. This must have been so tough to hear. Here's hoping they'll be able to get the swelling and potential infection under control quickly so that the radiation can begin.
qwerty
Posted on: 12/21/2011 00:13
Hard news indeed on the cusp of Christmas. This must be very difficult for you. I am sure you and Jim must feel as if you are under siege. Everyone will talk about how Jim (and you too) must "fight" and "battle" etc. Resolve is good. The cancer however is part of the cancer patient right at the cellular level and therefore when someone "battles" cancer they are are battling themselves. Thus I would recommend Jesus' prescription to love one another as the true place to focus your energy. This will make you both feel better and make life worth living even in these fearsome circumstances. Don't turn grim, turn loving.
chemgal
Posted on: 12/21/2011 00:15
(((((Mists)))))
carolla
Posted on: 12/21/2011 00:27
Mists - what staging does the doc say applies?
EasternOrthodox
Posted on: 12/21/2011 01:03
Mists,
So sorry to hear this news, and just at Christmas. All I can offer is a virtual hug and prayer....
Kyrie Eleison. Kyrie Eleison. Kyrie Eleison. (Cross self)
The light everlasting, that overcomes the night.
BethanyK
Posted on: 12/21/2011 01:22
((((((Mists family)))))))
MikePaterson
Posted on: 12/21/2011 01:27
You're in our prayers!
Tabitha
Posted on: 12/21/2011 02:01
Wise words from Qwerty.
Allow me to echo them.
My prayers are with the three of you.
May you feel comfort in your family's love.
lastpointe
Posted on: 12/21/2011 08:22
What a scary time for all of you. my thoughts and prayers are with you.
sighsnootles
Posted on: 12/21/2011 08:58
god lord.
i now have a candle lit for you in my kitchen, and it will remain lit every day... its a catholic thing my grandma taught me.
every time i look at it, i'll say a little prayer and send all my jedi mind powers your way to give you all the strength you need to get through this, no matter what the outcome shall be.
the jedi part is mine, btw... my grandma was never a believer in the jedi arts.
take care of yourself.
Beloved
Posted on: 12/21/2011 09:08
MIstsOfSpring . . . thinking of you and Jim and all those that know and love you as you go through this difficult time. Hope, peace, joy, love . . .
gecko46
Posted on: 12/21/2011 16:43
Mists - I wish I could offer you and Jim more than words. Hopefully as part of this virtual community you can feel our love, prayers and healing thoughts which are winging their way to you.
Hold each other close, and celebrate the good things. This will give you strength and energy as you face the future and Jim's treatments.
RitaTG
Posted on: 12/21/2011 17:17
Oh Mists ...................
((((((((((((((((Mists)))))))))))))))))))))))
gentle ((((((((((((((((((((((((Jim)))))))))))))))))))))))))
I weep for you and my prayers are there for you as a family.....
May this Christmas be a profound and special time for both of you......
Rita
MistsOfSpring
Posted on: 12/21/2011 18:33
Thank you.
kaythecurler
Posted on: 12/21/2011 20:25
(((((((((((Mists))))))))))) - I've been holding you and your family (even the 'extended' ones you may have not mentioned) in my heart and hoping that you manage some peace, love, joy and hope this Advent.
Comforting words are hard to find at times like this - but that is what I wish for you all - comforting words and available hugs as needed.
sighsnootles
Posted on: 12/22/2011 08:24
candle is still going today...
seeler
Posted on: 12/23/2011 08:44
Mists - my heart goes out to you. Others have offered wise words of love and peace. I hold you in my heart. (((((((Mists and family))))))
Northwind
Posted on: 12/23/2011 11:45
Mists, I'm so sorry to hear this news. My prayers are with you and your family.
qwerty, I've always had a problem with the notion of "fighting" and "battling" cancer. Thank you for putting it so eloquently.
Tiger Lily
Posted on: 12/23/2011 14:36
Thinking of you Mistsofspring and keeping you and Jim and all of your family in my prayers.