Nate had his rituxan infusion on Tuesday and we met with his local oncologist, Dr. Batts. He spoke with us about the thyroid biopsy results and options.
Nate is going to have surgery on July 16 in Holland to remove his right thyroid. The surgery is outpatient and recovery should be easy. Once the thyroid is removed, pathology can determine if there is cancer present. If the thyroid is cancerous there should be no need for other treatment as removing the thyroid takes care of the issue.
We are at peace with the decision to have surgery and we are grateful for that sense of peace. This past week was challenging, having to say "possible cancer" to our kids again. Trying to keep them informed, but also minimize their anxiety. Feeling angry and sad that we are looking at possible cancer just one year later. A friend going thru a tough season gave me the illustration of picking up the cancer when necessary and giving it all the focus needed. But, then laying down cancer and directing all of my focus elsewhere. Easier said than done, but I am working on it. We are looking forward to laying down cancer until July 16. Thank you for praying for us as we made this latest decision.
Family
Wednesday, May 9, 2018
Thursday, May 3, 2018
Thyroid
It has been a lot of waiting. Last week the biopsy results were indeterminate. Not benign, not obviously cancer. So molecular genetic testing was done on the biopsy sample and we waited another week. We met with the ENT Dr today to go over the results. The genetic testing shows there is a 50% chance there is cancer in his right thyroid. But, that also means a 50% chance it is not cancer. Well that is clear as mud. Awesome, thanks.
The doctor went over the options which include surgery all the way to watch and wait and gave us his recommendation. There are risks and benefits to all the options. And honestly, we sometimes do not feel equipped to make these decisions. For example, we began the appointment by asking, what exactly does the thyroid do again? (The Dr is probably thinking go back to high school biology!) How are we qualified to make this decision? But, we ask questions and we listen. And now we talk and pray and make the best decision we can. Please pray for wisdom.
The doctor went over the options which include surgery all the way to watch and wait and gave us his recommendation. There are risks and benefits to all the options. And honestly, we sometimes do not feel equipped to make these decisions. For example, we began the appointment by asking, what exactly does the thyroid do again? (The Dr is probably thinking go back to high school biology!) How are we qualified to make this decision? But, we ask questions and we listen. And now we talk and pray and make the best decision we can. Please pray for wisdom.
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