Saturday, July 18, 2009

Out of the Fryin' Pan

So far as my prognosis related to the cancer - it couldn't be better. Just have to do the seven weeks of radiation. The medical oncologist is not recommending chemo based on my particular situation. He sees a five year regimen of drug therapy following the radiation. His statistics based on a 10 year survival rate and my personal statistics gives me really good odds. All went well with the appointment.

However: Out of the fryin' and and into the fire. Seems to be my story. Late in the day after my appointment (above) I began having hard pain - the first during this whole situation. Shortly after I felt that the top I was wearing was wet and sticky. Sparing the details, enough fluid built up to open part of the incision from the second surgery and pour out. Pour is the key word here. Harry was able to contact the surgeon's office and we were met there about 20 minutes later. They extracted even more fluid, wicked the site, patched me up, and prescribed more antibiotics. Harry opted to be instructed on how to change the dressings and wick over the weekend rather than have home health care come to our house. I'll be back in the surgeon's office on Monday morning to evaluate progress.

This wonderful man who I'm privileged to share my life with has gone above and beyond to take care of me. He makes sure I have home cooked meals, keeps the house going, never lets me go very long without checking to be sure I'm OK and don't need anything. Now, this man who almost faints at the sight of blood, has managed to take care of a really nasty situation with confidence. He is gentle yet firm about what needs to be done. Along with my children (my daughters-in-law and son-in-law included) Harry is truly a gift of God. I can only hope and pray that I am worthy.

This is just a bump in the road to full closure of this chapter in my life. Maybe God's purpose was to show me the meaning of honest deep love. I'm humbled.

4 comments:

Cheryl said...

I hope this is the last bump. Let the healing begin. Rest all you can. Let this be a chapter that you look back on and only remember the love your found.

Tee said...

This post touched my heart at the deepest level. We are so blessed to have such wonderful husbands! I too am so thankful and am humbled as well. Good news about no chemo. I hope this phase of your recovery will soon be over.

Anonymous said...

Oh sweetie, I feel horrible. I have not visited you in forever and here I am reading you have been having quite a battle with your health. My Mom had breast cancer in 1992. She is doing well now. I wish the same for you honey. I am here for you if you need anything. I am sending you a lot of love and hugs and wishes for you to be well again soon!

With Love,
Michelle (alabamagal.blogspot.com)

Betty G said...

Hi Mary Ruth,
Hope the bump in the road has smoothed out and you are feeling much better. Sounds as though you have have a husband that is a good nurse and spoils you, that's a good thing! Enjoy reading your blog. Hope you are having a good day.

Betty G