We did learn a couple of things while at MD Anderson today. Dr. Weinberg showed us the MRI images. While Sarah's tumor is on the right frontal lobe, it is a little further back on the lobe than we first thought. Better said, there is brain tissue between Sarah's skull and the tumor. We also learned that they would not be able to remove 100% of the tumor because blood vessels have infiltrated the backside of the mass. Any damage to those blood vessels could result in a stroke, which could lead to paralysis, etc. If the mass is as slow growing as they believe it is, trying to get it all out is not worth the risk.
I am not sure what this means, or how/if it changes Sarah's prognosis, but we will know quite a bit more after post-surgery pathology is available. Depending on the biopsy results, additional treatment could follow. We pray that such treatment will not be required.
Sarah will have a pretty sweet scar that will span from one ear, across the top of her head, to the other ear (about an inch inside her hairline).
Typical of a mother, Sarah might be just as concerned about missing Owen's 2nd birthday as she is about anything we learned today.
(Insert "my son is the best" prose here). It's crazy to think that Owen is two years old. It's definitely been a happy two years. I could go on, but if you know "O", you know exactly what I'm talking about. He is, hands down, the best (no bias; if he looked like a baby ostrich and screamed like a peacock, I'd say so).
We can't wait to see him and Lynlee! Hopefully, we'll make it home tomorrow. Those kids, and their mama need some lovin'!
Thanks again for everybody's prayers and well-wishes. Special thanks to all who have helped get us in and out of town, watched our kids, watched our house (get hammered with snow), fed us a meal, watched our dog... the list goes on. Thank you,
Pat & Sarah
Our family will continue to pray for yours.
ReplyDeleteGod speed coming home....
Hum....thanks for the update for sure. Wish the news was a little better (like they knew they could get it all). Praying that actually changes and for some "miraculous" reason they can. Wishing safe travel for you. The sun melted a bit of snow off your roof today, yay!
ReplyDeleteYou guys are in the right place. MD Anderson is the best of the best!
ReplyDeleteMy brother had cancer and was down in houston for quite a while...Have yall made arrangements for a place to stay? There is a christian group that rents furnished apartments (by the night/week) near the medical center, for about $30 a night. I can get you the info if you're interested.
We will keep praying for you guys!
Your family is a true inspiration to me! Our faith is what is gets us by day by day but Grace is what gives us peace. Your love and commitment is amazing. The Hale family will always be praying for you and like everyone else, if there is anything we can do, it would be my honor to glorify God's name by helping you!!
ReplyDeleteMuch Love to the Fries Family
Just wanted y'all to know that my praying has not ceased. And, I have March 2nd marked on my calender! Love to you all!
ReplyDeleteI think about you so often, Sarah. I cannot imagine what you are going through mentally and physically.
And, please, let me know if there is anything I can do for you guys!
Keeping you all in our prayers. We also pray that God will surround you with His comforting presence and peace.
ReplyDeletePat and Tim Nickell
Pat, I don't know if you remember me...we were both the "tornado people" back when I was on your floor. Your father-in-law knows me...I used to work at Berryville, but now work in Internal Audit. Anyway, I have been following your blog and when someone emails me, I forward to others. So...there are MANY prayers going out for Sarah and your family. Many people whom you don't even know. We know Sarah is in God's hands!
ReplyDeleteGive Sarah and your kids a hug from me. And please keep up your blog. You are a very interesting writer. Love reading it! I look forward to reading about a MIRACLE!!!
Blessings,
Rosemary Butler
I don't know you guys personally but we have lots and lots of mutual friends!! Several of them have told me your story and I wanted to let you know I have prayed for your family from the moment I found out. Someone mentioned people you don't even know are praying for you and I thought it would be nice to tell you it's so true!!! You guys seem like amazing people and have so many prayer warriors out there.
ReplyDeleteI wish there was more I could do for your family!!! If anyone reading this knows of any way I can help, please let me
know!!
Tommorrow is March 2nd and God has divinely brought me to the forefront of this prayer warrior post of posts for a reason.
ReplyDeleteAngela Burris-Slaughter was a key part of that oppurtunity, but more importantly so the unquestioning attitude & service that we all 3 share in serving our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
I grew up in Angela's small hometown of Appleton & our families admired the respect each gave, earned, & admonished others toward in their own lives. Angela was always a "Dorthy & the Wizard of Oz" sort I thought in looking up to her & the sweet family bonds she shared in her childhood home. I know she has full circle blessed her own individual family; husband & children with that same irreplaceable value system & beliefs.
I know her friendship & support to you in this time of trials & tribulation has been very helpful. May your burdens be laid at Jesus feet & we continue with you in prayer as His intercession with God the Father is carried out. May the Holy Spirit comfort us in our patience, wisdom, & understanding that only He can provide. Thank you for surrounding us with such a great cloud of witnesses, Lord! Amen.