Well, the good news is that Stew is home. The unexpected news is once Dr. J. saw the size of the mantle cell lymphoma tumors in the abdomen and cecum, and the areas they were attached to, he felt it was too much of a risk to try and remove them. What he actually saw was that the tumors were much larger than expected, and had infiltrated the areas around them, more than the Pet Scan revealed. So, he stopped the surgery and simply stitched the incisions back up. That is all we know at this time. When we meet with Dr. K. we will learn more about any options we might have.
Stew has been sleeping most of the day except when the discomfort of the incisions becomes too painful. But, he has eaten and we did listen to a powerful teaching by Pastor Morris on the Purpose of Prayer. It is the first of 7 about the Lord's Prayer. One line in particular really impacted us both. He said that God never intended for us to carry our burdens any further than the feet of Jesus. We needed that reminder.
During our time at the hospital, we were so touched by the kindness of everyone responsible for Stew's care. We had a very nice nurse who took care of him pre-op. While waiting to go to surgery we talked about everything to include our faith, the very long healing process she is currently walking through, our families, dogs, favorite books read, and even The Shack. As Stew was taken to surgery we ended our time together with hugs and the promise of prayers.
After surgery, and once we were on the oncology floor, we were so blessed to see the same precious cleaning lady who had cleaned Stew's room when he was there for his first chemo treatment 7 months ago. She has a smile that only Jesus can give. She literally radiates His love and compassion. We had the gift of visiting for a few minutes. She shared that her Pastor was continually reminding her that we all needed to keep our eyes on Jesus...all the time! Perfect words at the perfect moment.
Stew also had a visit from one of the Veteran Volunteers. They each shared a few military experiences (both were in Vietnam) and he gave Stew the certificate pictured below.
Later in the day we found out that a dear friend of Amy's (and a new friend of mine), whom we have been praying for and who has been praying for us, had been admitted to the same hospital. She is a mighty prayer warrior who has fought her own battle of health for a very long time. Yet, there she was, sending texts to check on Stew...on us...through out the day. We were able to visit some the next morning which was a day brightener.
Add to all of the above, the fact that my sis fell and was in the emergency room for part of our time there (she is okay, but very sore) , we can truthfully say that none of our time at the hospital fell under the category of a "normal" stay.
We were asked yesterday how we were doing. There has definitely been a "cry" moment...actually, two...well, three...on my part. Stew has experienced a few "quiet" moments, especially after realizing the surgery did not go as hoped. We have questions waiting to be asked, and answers we are hoping to hear.
But, we are also thankful that we have the gift of sharing life together.
Thank you for praying, for your patience with us the past couple of days as our correspondence has not been as quick as we normally try to make it, and for your loving encouragement expressed in texts, cards, and even the gift of our meals being covered while Stew was in the hospital. Without you, and our beautiful supportive family, the days would be much more challenging and the battle much more wearying.
With hearts of gratitude,
Stew and Deb
A few pictures from the past couple of days.
The bravest , strongest man I know...my warrior!
