Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Monday/Tuesday Dr. visits

We saw Dr. Crim yesterday evening. He examined Mark and was very pleased with how everything was going. He even talked about scheduling the surgery to reverse his ileostomy. He was reminded of the heart surgery however and told us to call him following recovery from heart surgery. All was good otherwise.

That being said, we can preface the appointment today by saying that the best laid plans are meant to be changed ---right? Today's appointment with Dr. Kourlis brought a new agenda. He reviewed all of the records and the procedure with us. The procedure to fix the aneurysm is huge. Consequently, the risk is great. He really wants Mark to be at "the top of his game" before he will do the surgery. He would like him to be further out from chemo and to have the follow up scan that was recommended by the radiologist following the PET. He would also like to figure in the statistics related to recurrence for Mark's type of cancer. In a nutshell, Mark's health must be optimal in order for him to believe he has the best chance of surviving the surgery.

We have questioned ourselves if the surgery is an absolute. If the risk is so great, is this really what is best. He did confirm that it needs to be done, but the conditions need to be the best they can be. He also feels like that includes reversing the ileostomy. Due to the difficulty of fluid regulation with the ileostomy, he feels it would be best if that were reversed prior to the heart surgery.

Sooooooo, it appears that surgery is likely within a couple of weeks, but not heart surgery. Dr. Crim is out of the office today, but tomorrow we will attempt to get back in touch with him to discuss scheduling the reversal operation.

We haven't eaten yet today, so that is where we are headed and will be on the road again. Hope I have answered many questions. I am sure we will be talking soon.

Much love, Missy

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

BLESS YOU ! THAT IS ALL I HAVE GOT TO SAY ! BLESS ALL OF THE BROWN FAMILIES !
I LOVE YOU GUYS!
AUNTIE N

Anonymous said...

We're still with you all the way-heart, mind, spirit. OK, I'll even add- Keep that Trojan fighting spirit. Go big blue, go big BROWN! (Remember I teach Spec. Ed)
Love ya, Linda

Anonymous said...

I must admit we have done our share of questioning "why" this week with our kids and just as God has reminded me for the, He reminded me for my baby brothe, God is still in control. He is omnipotent. He is all wise. He will make a way. He sees the underside of the tapestry of Marks life and He knows what is best. I know that my little pea brain cannot begin to comprehend his wisdom and power. So, that being said, as I continue to trust Him for our children in Ethiopia, I trust him for all of you. I must learn to "Wait on the Lord, and REST in His promises. I love you all so very much.The Big Sis

Anonymous said...

Our prayers continue to go up for all of you. We are trusting and believing that God will continue to work miracles. Keep the Faith!!! Jerry and Wanda

Anonymous said...

When your up againest the wall and your mountain seems to tall, raise your hands and say greater is He that is within me and you can praise His name.
You just keep running up on mountains to climb but you two have together done it so courageously. I believe your faith is what brought you where you are. I believe your determination to fight will be made stronger by your faith in God.
Keep the faith. I love you guys so much.

Donna Sue said...

I am praying that all the right and best decisions will be made! We must keep our faith. God has brought you so far already.

Love,
Donna Sue

Anonymous said...

Keeping you in our prayers Mark...hang in there!! You have been amazing throughout this whole ordea and look great. Keep up the good work!! YOu can do it!! We love you!!
Kim, Bryan & kiddos

Anonymous said...

Haven't posted in a long time, but we have NOT stopped praying for you here in Burk! (Also at my church every week)Thanks so much for keeping us posted! God bless you! Keep the faith! And we look forward to that wonderful day when God finally rewards you with a nice, non-eventful life that so many take for granted!
Love and hugs,
Janet & John