Monday afternoon, I had a long meeting with my internist. He provided some much needed information and guidance. The first thing he confirmed for me was the wisdom in seeking an expert neurosurgeon. "We're fortunate to have 3 of the top centers for neurosurgery in the world here - UCLA, USC, and Cedars. You really need the 'A' team for something like this, and while I'm sure the surgeon who performed your biopsy is very good, you owe it to yourself and your family to get the best."
He then looked at me soberly. "Surgery is a given. But beyond that, they will probably offer you chemo and radiation therapy. Maybe some others. My advice is to take them all - even if there are risks of permanent impairment. Make no mistake about it: You're in a war! We have to be aggressive. Take no prisoners!"
The prospect of permanent side-effects scares me. At this point, there's no reason to speculate on what they might be - cognitive, verbal, physical. I know that I want to be cured of this, but at what cost?
On the other hand, as I've known from the outset, the outcome is really not up to me. "Blessed is He who gives, and who takes away! Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him!"
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9 comments:
Some more scary moments. Some more scary decisions. However, every step will take you closer to cure.
Heidi
Bob,
Just wanted you to know that the prayer platoon has been called up and we'll be "burnin' the wires" on your behalf. If there is anything I can do for you, Shirley and the kids, you know you got it. Eagle Rock isn't that far away!
I look forward to future posts, and good news soon.
Michele
Bob,
You made a brilliant decision to ask for a second opinion. Sounds like Linda Liau is an outstanding physician. If by any chance you are unhappy with her or want another opinion, try Dr. Black at Cedars. He is the surgeon who operated on Meridith (Phil Neal's wife). He is highly regarded in his field. And don't forget about City of Hope. They are another good resource.
If I can do anything, please give me a call (x2154). My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Kate
Hi Bob,
We want to let you know that we are on your side in the war. If you need any back-up for a battle, just let us know. North Carolina isn't that far away!
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Yours,
Charlie & Karen
Thanks, always, for prayers and good wishes!
Kate, Dr. Black is my 'plan-B' right now - he's been recommended by a family member, and my internist used to work with him at Cedars, and has offered to get me in to see him, should Dr. Liau not work out for some reason. It's good to know there are abundant resources available! I remain confident.
Bob, don't believe we have met yet. Our family has only been at SCC for about one year. I'm a cancer survivor too! Stage 2 melanoma at age 38, when both my girls were under the age of 6. It really puts life into perspective for you, doesn't it? But God is good and He will bring you through it! Thank you so much for the blog, it will be wonderful to read about the miracles God is going to do.:-)
I'll be praying for you!
Cindi Kingery
Bob,
Remain positive and confident. Faith and attitude are so important!
Kate
Bob,
Kathy and I are praying for you daily. We will also have our Prayer Group praying for you. We will follow your blog for updates, but please don't hesitate to call if we can be of any assistance.
Art & Kathy
Hi, Cindi,
Good to meet you! It's always encouraging to hear that others have survived - and thrived - with this disease! Hope to see you in church Sunday.
Robert
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