Okay so, Gail's surgery yesterday went very well. They injected her with the dye (it shows the doctor which nodes drain first so that they can take those specifically for pathology, as opposed to taking them all, or several, because when that is done there is a very high risk of Lymphedema
They called us back right around 4 to see the surgeon. He was very happy with the surgery overall. The left breast was removed down to the pectoral muscle (none of the muscle had to be taken). I asked whether or not he was able to see the mass (I was hoping for an eyeball quasi-diagnosis) but he informed me that, no, he didn't see it, nor had he wanted to. He wanted to (and did) remove the breast with a good layer of fat all the way around the mass - which is really good.
He said she did great in the surgery and was in recovery. He said we would be able to see her in about an hour and a half.
About 45 minutes later, Mike and Gail's friend Gina (the one that helped Gail get in with this doctor) came out to let us know that she had peeked in on Gail and she was waking up. Gina went ahead and took Mike back to see her. The rest of us commoners had to wait the full allotted time.
About 45 minutes after that, we saw them wheeling Gail by on her gurney and she looked great! She was awake and alert and seemed to be feeling well (considering). It took about 10 minutes to get her settled in her room and then we were able to come and go in her room at will.
Her parents, her brother, Mike's mom, Mike and I were there. Also, her friend Randy and his daughter Karen stopped by.
They brought her some clear food and she slurped back the chicken broth with conviction. Her dad and Mike went in search of more.
She should be going home this morning. I will be going out to their house this afternoon and taking some Cosmic Cantina Burritos.
We will get the result of the Pathology next Wednesday so I imagine the next posting will be next Thursday.
Carrie
It has certainly come to my attention that u r one very strong and motivated woman, u have wonderful support and will no doubt defeat this.My thoughts and prayers will be with you, Mike and Katie always!
ReplyDeleteGail,
ReplyDeleteDr. Marc Graham is probably the best for your follow up treatment. His contact information is 919-233-8585.
Mike.....my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Stay strong.
ReplyDelete