Final Tests Before Surgery

Yesterday was a 6-hour day at Virginia Mason, having a CAT scan, meeting with John's surgeon Dr. Low and having a consult in the anesthesia clinic with a very young Dr. Adcock (who may or may not be John's anesthetist on day of surgery).  Surgery is, indeed, scheduled for May 16.  So the blog may be a little quiet between now and then as -- mercifully -- there is only one appointment left to take care of between now and then.  Sometime within two weeks of surgery John needs to have a blood draw to type his blood. Antibodies and who-knows-what-else can then be matched to a supply which will available in the unlikely event he should need a transfusion during his surgical procedure.
Dr. Low (surgeon) went over the actual procedure which will take anywhere from 6 to 9 hours.  They will initially "go in" under John's sternum (breastbone) and somehow not have to go through muscle.  For those of you who have had abdominal surgery, myself included, you know this is a plus.  A second incision will be made on John's right side between two ribs.  Between these two locations, Dr. Low will remove his esophagus and lymph nodes in the previously cancerous area, take his stomach and refashion it into a tube-like structure and create a new esophagus.  The result will be a much smaller stomach and a "new" esophagus.  The removed organ(s) will be sent to pathology for a 3-4 day examination, looking for any malignant cells.  We are hoping that the path report will show only (if any) dead cancer cells.
So we're about halfway there and, thank God, all the progress has been positive.  Thank you so much for the cards, phone calls, prayers well wishes on this journey.  I know I keep asking, but keep those prayers and good vibes coming.  You are, each one of you, so very much appreciated.
I'm also offering you a challenge:  Beginning May 16 (when John goes into hospital), get a jigsaw puzzle.  Spend some time with your family, or go solo, putting it together.  Have fun, think of John and -- after your puzzle is completed and you've taken the requisite photo of your accomplishment -- take it apart.  Put it back in the box and take it to your local cancer center or hospital for use in a waiting room.  Those puzzles help patients, friends and family connect with each other and for a short time forget their troubles.  As Martha Stewart says, "It's a good thing."  I'll stay in touch over the next few weeks and will definitely let you know how things go in May.  Love to you all...Nancy

Endoscopic Ultrasound Tests Great!

We arrived home this evening after our first post-chemo/radiation test which was an endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) at Virginia Mason.  Dr. Jiranek, who performed John's first EUS in February, was delighted to report that today's test showed a dramatic change.  The tumor has, basically, disappeared and John's esophagus looks smooth.  That is not to say, however, that this is conclusive evidence that the cancer is gone.  There could still be malignant cells within the esophageal tissue that will only be confirmed with a pathology report after surgery.  But today's news is the very best we could hear.  Your prayers, well wishes, good vibes, positive juju help us more than we can say.  Keep it up!
After today's appointment, our Bothell neighbors and dear, DEAR friends (Bruce and Laura Scott and their daughters Lanelle and Monica) met us at the Rhododendron Room restaurant at the Inn at Virginia Mason for dinner.  I'm not sure if John was happier to see them or eat something!  It had been 24 hours since his last meal and nearly 12 hours since he'd had even a glass of water.  It was a wonderful way to celebrate good results.
Our next step is to return to VM next Wednesday, April 20, for a CAT scan and to again meet with John's surgeon Dr. Low.  Final decisions about the timing of surgery, currently scheduled for May 16, will be made at that time once Dr. Low examines all John's test results.
I can't believe it's the middle of April.  Normally people say, "I can't believe..." because time goes so quickly.  But, for me, time is going very slowly.  At the ripe old age of 55 that should be considered a gift.  But in this respect it's not.  I'm am anxious for autumn when all of this is behind us and John is well into his recovery and life can return to "normal"... or whatever normal will be.  But a gift, a true gift that John and I have received is the awareness of the honest love, friendship and support from all of you and from the people who have touched our life during this time.  We can never, ever repay you for what you have given -- and continue to give -- us.  Just know that you are all in my prayers.  Thank you...and onward we go.  Nancy.