Dad Update

[ellyssian]

It has been confirmed.

My father has stage three gall bladder cancer that has spread to his liver. This is a rare and aggressive cancer. They're planning on one or two courses of chemo, but will be discussing that further on January 5th. Because it has spread to his liver, they can't just pull out the gall bladder. Since my father is in otherwise-excellent shape, the doctor feels confident that he'll do okay. He sounds relatively calm, saying "we'll do what we have to do" and advising not to worry, "besides, I might survive the treatment, and then all the angst will be for nothing."

Thanks again for all the good thoughts and comments... I appreciate each and every one!

Comments

[gerbilsage.livejournal.com]

Boo cancer.

- M.

[mooseloon.livejournal.com]

*hugs*

[windswept.livejournal.com]

I'm sorry about the diagnosis, but I'm glad the doctor sounds confident.

[snowy-owlet.livejournal.com]

I'm so sorry. I'll keep him in my thoughts.

[celticess.livejournal.com]

*hugs*

It sounds like your dad has got a reasonable doctor though I'm suprised no radiation was mentioned. Your dad sounds like he's got a good attitude. My dad was 79 when he had his chemo and he did fine with it. He just didn't know he also had liver cancer. Your dad does know that so they can help target his better.

[patrixa.livejournal.com]

Radiation doesn't work on gall bladder cancer (which is the primary one); the liver cancer is secondary. Because of the extent of the "infestation," surgery isn't an option. In the 1950's (maybe the 40's) there was a song called: "I'm Gonna Live Until I Die," a jazzy bouncy tune which will be our motto (I'm ellyssian's mum). A bad attitude may happen on occasion, but we intend to overcome. We also appreciate all the kind good thoughts and prayers coming our way via this site. They really do give strength. Thank you.

[mythweaver.livejournal.com]

I'm so sorry. I understand what it's like going through all the diagnoses and trying to sort out all the chaos, so I'll be thinking about you and your family through this. I hope that the chemo works well and that the cancer is nipped in the bud.

Just stay strong and stick together!

[cissa.livejournal.com]

I'm wishing him- and all of you- the very best.

[opakele.livejournal.com]

Damnit, I'm sorry. You and your family are not alone in this. If you can, go with your dad to a treatment or two. It is an eye opener and it helps keep things in perspective.

Good thoughts headed your way. Hang tough.