Our appointment today with Dr. Daniel DeArmond confirmed at least a couple of things—I am no doctor, for one. Two, I am not qualified to read CT scans effectively or accurately. Who knew?
The real doctor looked over the scans with us. He offered two surgical procedures to remove tumors from the left lung for us to ponder. He explained that the lung would be deflated and allowed to collapse before removing any tumors. The first, a thoracotomy, is a procedure whereby an incision is made large enough for the surgeon to expose the lung. A couple or more ribs must be spread apart to allow sufficient room, which causes at least one rib to break. The second, a thoracoscopy, is performed through three small incisions, one for a camera (scope) and the other two for his surgical instruments. The “scope” procedure, while less invasive, is usually enough to get the job done.
We were concerned that there would not be enough room to work around the largest tumor. He told us that as the lung is collapsed, the tumor would be pulled away from the aorta, allowing for sufficient clear margins. He suggested that while he was in, he should go ahead and remove as many tumors as he felt he could, saying that there would not be enough lost lung capacity to be a problem. After a lengthy question and answer session, Helen and I felt confident in moving forward with surgery. It was decided that we would go with the thoracoscopy, and if the need arose, he would move to the more invasive thoracotomy. The surgery is scheduled for next Friday, the 12th.
We have heard nothing but good things about Dr. DeArmond. We are at peace both with the happenings of the day and the plans for surgery. We are encouraged and continue to believe that God is directing our steps and walking us through day by day. His grace and mercy in our lives is so amazing.
We are so very thankful for so many friends and family who have helped carry us. Your comments on this blog have been so uplifting and encouraging. We are so blessed in so many ways by so many of you.
Love you all...
8 comments:
Hey Kenny....You will most definitely be in my prayers. I love you dearly and pray for you often. You are a great testimony for the cause of Christ. May you be healed in the powerful name of Jesus.
Bobby
Our Father God has such a mighty warrior in you Kenny. He has, and does, touch and change so many lives through you...including mine. Thank you for listening to and serving Him. We will be offering our prayers for you and bearing down on Friday.
God bless you guys!
Richard
Kenny & Helen,
I have been checking often since yesterday. I woke up early Wednesday morning...I never wake up early! So I put the extra time to good use and I prayed for you both along with your doctors. I prayed that surgery would be an option. Please know that you will be in my prayers. I love you both so much. You are such a blessing. You both have such kind and gentle spirits. Love you both and I will keep praying...
Nancy P.
Our prayers are for you and Helen, Kenny as you wait for this surgery. We pray that God will enfold you in His loving arms and help you through this difficult time. Your trust in God is an inspiration to us all.
Love, Hector and Jeanette
I'm so glad surgery is an option. Praise the LORD!
What a blessing you two are. We love you and continue to pray for you.
Virginia & Lloyd
i listened to Dr Charles Stanley sermon on prayer it was wonderful since I am still learning so much--He said God always gives us more than we ask him for how awsome is that. We ask him for healing and calming for your family.
Bud and Beth--Love yall sooo much
hey kenny and helen, i saw shan today at bealls and she is very excited and at peace with your surgery. actually, this is some of the most hopeful news that you have had, in my opinion. because of your bigger tumor, this could mean that you can actually see being cancer free not long down the road. is this a great answer to prayer? i'm not taking your surgery lightly, but i really feel good about it. i know you've got some more difficult days ahead, but God is so good!!!! i am praying for everything and i pray for sweet peace, assurance and rest for your souls. i love you all, debi
still praying for u. i love you, debi
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