Two doctors later, there is more information and a plan. The GI doctor was first. Meds for appetite stimulation and to coat her stomach were prescribed. Another endoscopy is scheduled for Monday to check the healing of the ulcers. There is the pesky matter of a gall bladder filled with stones, which is likely the main reason for her pain...but they want to wait to address it after the chemo has finished.
The oncologist was next. A PET scan, lung function test, echo of heart, meeting with the oncology pharmacist, and placement of a port for chemo access. All to gear up for chemo to start on the 26th. A week and a half away.
6 cycles of chemo. Each cycle consists of two course over 4 weeks. 6 months of treatment if all goes as planned.
It's all so very overwhelming.
The oncologist had no answers as to why they had so much trouble finding the cancer. He said he trusts the Stanford results.
She is being very stoic about everything. "It is what it is," is what she tells me.
I am freaking out (although I don't think she knows that), I am not sure how I am going to do all that needs done. How I can get her to her appointments. How I can do what I have to do at work. At home.
What do I tell the boys? Their birthday is the 27th. I can't associate their birthday with news like this, so I want to make sure there is time between their day and when I do tell them. I don't even know what to say.
I feel a lot like the person spinning plates with all of them wobbling, ready to fall.
Maybe just tell them Grandma is sick and needs some strong medicine, but they will still have their party,etc. If they have more questions, you can answer them age appropriately.
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't tell the boys much, no need to worry them. Explain that she is sick and has to have special medicine to help her get better, etc. They don't need to know she has cancer at this point. These can go in remission for years. If it comes to a point where all treatment has been exhausted and it's still there - THEN have that hard discussion of what is going to happen.
ReplyDeleteOh Stacie. I'm glad there is a plan falling into place and pray it is the one that will heal her. You are such a strong person. I know it is definitely a lot on your plate, but I have no doubt you will find a way to make it all work. Your momma is lucky to have you, as I know you are also so lucky to have her.
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