As I wrote last week, this was going to be the Christmas ever. Well, it was a good Christmas, because our family got to spend some time together.
But it was also tempered somewhat.
We learned on Wednesday evening, a week before Christmas Day, the results of the pathology report following our daughter Meghan’s operation for a brain tumor the previous Friday.
The oncologist sat down that Wednesday evening with her, our son-in-law Terry and Pat and me and informed us that although the surgeon had been able to remove the entire tumor, that it is cancer.
It has some long name and I’ve forgotten exactly what that is, but this particular type of cancer forms in the brain. Apparently it’s the most common kind of cancer that forms in the brain.
My wife asked the oncologist, who was very compassionate but straightforward, about the fact that the MRI had shown that the surgeon was able to remove all of the tumor, then how come it was still cancer.
Graciously, Meghan’s oncologist explained that this type of tumor sends out what I believe he said is spindles to other areas of the body.
He further explained to us that it’s incurable. The oncologist said what they will do, once Meghan is a little stronger and able, is to begin radiation and chemotherapy treatment. They have moved Meghan from Mercy North to an inpatient rehab facility closer to their home in Norman where she will continue physical therapy for hopefully no more than a week or two before getting to go home.
Once strong enough, she will begin the treatments.
In the meantime, we, along with countless others continue to pray for her success in recovery and from the treatments.
The oncologist continues to research possible other remedies with some of the extensive resources he has. From the outset he has encouraged Meghan to be positive and remain strong in her desire to succeed in both the rehab and during the treatments.
He’s pointed out a patient’s attitude toward these types of difficulties can mean so much and that is the reason he’s encouraged her.
We’re thankful for all the many prayers, texts, phone calls and visits we and her husband Terry have had during this most difficult time. We are praying for a miracle, we will continue doing that, never giving up hope for her.
I’ve mentioned to countless people that this is the most difficult crisis we’ve ever faced but we must continue to have faith and trust in God.