Thank you for praying for Sara!

I was on pins and needles all day Thursday as I waited for updates throughout my sister Sara’s 9 1/2 hour surgery. 

(If you’re just seeing this, doctors found cancer during a routine surgery to remove cysts in August.  It turned out she had a very rare appendix cancer.  While the acting doctor did what he could at the time of surgery, he had never seen this type of cancer and there was not a doctor in the vicinity that had any experience with it. She was referred to MD Anderson in Houston.  The next few months were a roller coaster as she healed from surgery, met with doctors, and dealt with insurance.  The surgery was originally scheduled for the Monday after Christmas, but had to be canceled since Sara was sick and fighting infections.  In truth we weren’t absolutely sure she would be taken into surgery until Thursday morning when she actually went in.) 

Finally in the evening we received word that the surgery was over.  The doctors said it was a success.  However the epidural which was to give her relief the first few days didn’t work right and she was in a lot of pain. 

This kind of cancer does not have blood vessels so other forms of chemo are ineffective.  During the surgery doctors removed as much cancer as they could see.  My brother-in-law said she had cancer on every organ he inquired about.  They cleaned everything out.  Then placed heated chemo inside her abdomen, doing their best to reach every area.  This lasted hours.  A feeding tube was inserted to let her organs rest. 

She was in ICU for one day and then transferred to another room.  She has not been up to talking or even texting much yet.  She is still in a lot of pain and is very short of breath.  There is also fluid in her lungs. 

Last night she told me that she never knew the human body could smell so bad!  Cracked me up.  (And yes she said I could quote her on that!)  She said she dreams of food and cleaning house.  Ha ha.  The food I get, but cleaning house?  Her hospital room is very messy, and it’s driving her crazy. 

She said she has moments when she feels a little better, but that very quickly she feels horrible again.  Today she has had more moments when she feels better, was able to get a much appreciated shower, and was told she may even be able to begin real food.  She asked that everyone please continue to pray.  

Thanks to all who are praying, and sent sweet notes, comments and emails.  They are much appreciated!