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Surgery today!

› Forums › General Melanoma Community › Surgery today!

  • Post
    • August 20, 2011 at 1:55 am
    Jan in OC
    Participant

      I have been at MD Anderson since 5 am…just got back to the hotel (after 8:30pm).  The surgery went good, the doc removed one tumor 10mm x 10mm from his left frontal lobe and he was pretty sleepy and in some pain (big headache). 

      I have been at MD Anderson since 5 am…just got back to the hotel (after 8:30pm).  The surgery went good, the doc removed one tumor 10mm x 10mm from his left frontal lobe and he was pretty sleepy and in some pain (big headache). 

      The Neurosurgeon also delivered some bad news that I have not been able to speak to Dirk about yet.  Last week's MRI showed just one large and 3 small mets in his brain.  Last night's pre-surgery MRI showed 8 small mets now.  I had a few tears and lots of cursing in my mind.  CRAP!   I will get the results of the post op MRI in the morning.  We will talk to Dr. Papa on Monday and decide where to go from here.

      Our UCLA Oncologist (Dr. Chmielowski) called today to check on him and said that he was glad that we were at MD.  He said it was the best place for Dirk right now, so I just need to stay positive and believe that we can beat this latest set back.

      To Desiree, I sent you an email with my phone number…look for a message from [email protected]!

      Thanks everyone for your prayers and support.  I am very grateful that to the wonderful people on this board.  You have kept me sane!!

      Jan, wife to Dirk, stage IV

    Viewing 5 reply threads
    • Replies
        • August 20, 2011 at 2:07 am
        lhaley
        Participant

          Jan,

          I'm sorry to hear that the latest mri showed progression. Just when you take one, more show up.  That was special that Dirk's old oncologist called to see how he is doing.

          I know you must be exhausted after such a long and draining day.  Do take care of yourself during this battle.

          Linda

          • August 20, 2011 at 2:07 am
          lhaley
          Participant

            Jan,

            I'm sorry to hear that the latest mri showed progression. Just when you take one, more show up.  That was special that Dirk's old oncologist called to see how he is doing.

            I know you must be exhausted after such a long and draining day.  Do take care of yourself during this battle.

            Linda

            • August 20, 2011 at 11:36 am
            triciad
            Participant

              Jan,

              I'm so sorry to hear about the additional mets.  I have heard so many wonderful things about MD Anderson, so it seems you are in a very good place to deal with new mets.  You and Dirk will be in my prayers.  Please take care of yourself, too!  You have been through so much in the past; let's hope the future is full of good news!

              Tricia

                • August 21, 2011 at 12:59 pm
                Vermont_Donna
                Participant

                  Dear Jan and Dirk,

                  So sorry for this devastating news, but so glad that you are in one of the BEST melanoma treatment facilities! Keep us posted and like Linda said take care of your too!

                  Vermont_Donna, stage 3a, NED

                  • August 21, 2011 at 12:59 pm
                  Vermont_Donna
                  Participant

                    Dear Jan and Dirk,

                    So sorry for this devastating news, but so glad that you are in one of the BEST melanoma treatment facilities! Keep us posted and like Linda said take care of your too!

                    Vermont_Donna, stage 3a, NED

                  • August 20, 2011 at 11:36 am
                  triciad
                  Participant

                    Jan,

                    I'm so sorry to hear about the additional mets.  I have heard so many wonderful things about MD Anderson, so it seems you are in a very good place to deal with new mets.  You and Dirk will be in my prayers.  Please take care of yourself, too!  You have been through so much in the past; let's hope the future is full of good news!

                    Tricia

                    • August 21, 2011 at 5:25 pm
                    CAdesiree
                    Participant

                      jan- this is desiree.  i'm sorry i didnt get it done yesterday, but josh has your number.  he will be contacting you directly since you are both in texas.  but he should be able to coordiante a group of guys to help you unload, especially dirks baby buell.  you have my number if you need anything.  you are all still in my thoughts & prayers.

                      • August 21, 2011 at 5:25 pm
                      CAdesiree
                      Participant

                        jan- this is desiree.  i'm sorry i didnt get it done yesterday, but josh has your number.  he will be contacting you directly since you are both in texas.  but he should be able to coordiante a group of guys to help you unload, especially dirks baby buell.  you have my number if you need anything.  you are all still in my thoughts & prayers.

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