Dear All,
These last 24 hours have been indescribably difficult. They performed an angiogram yesterday to map the tumor, after which her doctor informed us in no uncertain terms that this tumor is inoperable. His suspicions regarding exactly what's going on were confirmed in a biopsy today. In medical terms, she has a high-grade glioma in the thalamus region of her brain. In layman's terms, it's a very angry and cancerous tumor that grows quickly and is tough to reach.
So onto the next step: how to go about treating it. The radiation and oncology teams met with us this evening, and they plan to approach this using both techniques. Likely the day after Christmas, she will begin receiving radiation therapy. As I understand it, the reason for the delay is to create a type of treatment that will specifically target the lesion, and leave the healthy part of the brain alone. They will make a model of her brain tomorrow, and will spend the days between now and December 27 designing the treatment. It will continue five days a week for approximately six weeks. She will simultaneously receive an oral chemotherapy pill designed to work in tandem with the radiation. They expect she will respond well initially. The greater concern is long-term. Just to be clear: no one has offered a prognosis. We are taking this not only day by day, but hour by hour right now. Every individual responds differently to treatment, and we go forward praying she responds better than anyone could dare to hope.
The entire staff at Barnes Jewish has been outstanding throughout this ordeal. From the ER physicians, to the neurosurgery team to the radiation/oncology representatives we met late today, she's in a good place. Confidence does not in any way diminish fear. We have all had our moments, and that certainly includes Mom. Given the surgery, today was particularly difficult for her -- and I'm not sure she's yet realized she has a buzz cut on one side of her head... I consistently read about the power of positive thinking, and as we move forward, we're determined to make sure she not only has every possible opportunity at the best therapies, but is surrounded by people who love her and believe in her ability to beat this. I realize it's ridiculous to look at this situation and wonder why. We do so anyway. But we see medical miracles every day. I see no reason why she can't be one of those.
Thank you so much for all of your texts, e-mails and phone calls. I have not been able to respond to each individually, but know I have received with gratitude every single one. Dad is handling everything well. Mark and Maggie have been here since yesterday, and will stay until tomorrow.
I'm aware and thankful that many are forwarding these updates to others whose e-mail addresses I don't have. Despite the circumstances, every member of my family is aware of how fortunate we are to be surrounded by so many amazing people. I know I don't need to ask again, but please keep praying. Thank you for all of your offers to help, and we have no modicum of pride in this matter. If we need something, we'll ask.
With Gratitude and Love,
Abby
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Abigail's email about the first 24 hours, and treatment moving forward
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