My mom asked me to post this for all – Michael
Mom is out of surgery. The doctor (O’Brien) came out and talked to me. She said it went really really well. There are four clips in mom’s eye around the tumor forming a box (3d). The clips are 1.5 mm in size, about the size of the tip of a pin. The clips are placed so that they are inset from the four corners of the tumor (which is actually round), if you can imagine the tumor being square. It was basically a very successful deal. There is one very small concern. The clip in the front towards the center of the eye (front right as you look at mom) might be too close to the front of the eye. i am not sure of the anatomy, but the clip might intersect with some portion of the eye, which mom could feel. Dr. O'Brien said the clip 'might' bother mom (as in be irritating), and it might fall out. The clip is only useful for the radiation treatment, which is in 3 weeks. So really this is only an issue for the next couple of weeks. If the clip 'falls out' then it just hangs out in the eye and causes no harm or issue. If it doesn't fall out and is cause for irritation, Dr. O'Brien recommends that she come back to here and have it removed. Apparently this is a very simple procedure where they basically take it out. No big deal.
I asked Dr. O'Brien about the probability issue that she told mom before she went into surgery. She laid it out for me much more clearly. It goes something like this:
- 97% of people who under go this radiation treatment have their tumor killed
- 75% of people keep their eye
- 50% maintain some sight.
The percent who don't in all cases (3%, 25% and 50% above) all have complicating issues like glaucoma, diabetes, and/or are much older than mom. In short the prognosis for mom is really really good. The dr. really shied away from any notion of mom regaining sight, because she just can't predict it, even though there is a 50% chance of maintaining sight (how much is an issue). With mom, her tumor has a high degree of vascular involvement and is close to the front of the eye, meaning that it could 1) continue to bleed (which is causing her vision loss) 2) break through the cornea or block vision. The dr. couldn't tell, but was really positive about the procedure and mom's outlook.
In all a very successful procedure.
8 comments:
I am pleased things are going well. God has you in His arms and will continue to guide you successfully in this journey. My prayers are with you and your family.
Thank you for the detailed accounts. It feels as if I am sitting in the waiting room with you.
I wish so badly that I could be there to offer support. Just know that I am sending off all my thoughts and prayers in your direction.
Love always,
Andy
Good morning, Leni. I add my prayers of hope! These are really good, encouraging reports. I continue to be with you in spirit and love.
Peace & All Good, Janet
Leni,
Just sending my "nurses" from San Diego to help you out!! Just wanted to say we are thinking about you and wishing you a speedy recovery.
luv,
Julieta, Jaimes, and little Paul
Aunt Leni,
I am so happy and relieved to hear that the procedure went well. As always I am amazed by you and your strength of spirit. By strength, I mean more than your ability to be strong and positive, but your gift to walk all phases of this process and the wide range of emotions that it brings with grace, faith and trust.
And I just want to say what everyone else is thinking but not saying out of respect for your process. We miss you. Continue to do what you need to do for yourself, and continue to heal and thrive in the love of your sons and family. For it is your health and your peace of mind that is of highest priority right now. But as you do, simply know how much your friendship, talks, hugs, smiles, insight, laughter, and conversation are missed in our lives.
Love you like the smallest of Gods favors that make times like these bearable. May the mini miracles in your life be abundant during this time... a grandson's smile, a close parking space, manicured toenails, your own home, a beautiful new white bathroom you designed yourself, a favorite blanket, a wicker chair...
Leni,
So happy with the news. My prayers continue...
z
Leni,
I caught up reading your beautiful postings, along with your son's. All the info and procedures sound so positive. It's amazing to hear how up the reports and YOU are at this time. I miss you and pray for your peace and health.
Cindy
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