Trip to Mayo: Day 1

Today was a very long one at the Mayo Clinic, but an encouraging one. My son had an early morning appointment with a specialist, so that meant that I had to wake up much earlier than I would normally like to. Ahh -- the sacrifices we parents make!

Although nothing is ever certain, it seems likely at this point that we won't find out the most terrible news -- that the cancer has spread far. This type of cancer, unfortunately, tends to spread to the lungs if it spreads. His chest x-ray came out clean. Yea! This is a very good sign. It does not mean cancer has not spread -- but it is great news.

We were surprised to hear that even though the pathology reports identified cancer as the likely diagnosis, our specialist said that the biopsies of this type of cancer are often wrong. We will only find out for sure when they take out the mass.

My son is scheduled for surgery sometime tomorrow. We will find out what time later tonight. The best case scenario is that they will find out that the mass is indeed benign, the surrounding nerve is not damaged, and he will be okay. We are certainly hoping for this. He would need to be in the hospital for only one night and we would be on our way home within 48 hours. If cancer is found, there will need to be additional tissue removed and at least an additional night in the hospital.

Thanks to all you great bloggers for your care, concern, prayers, good karma, and good vibes. We are optimistic tonight and hope to be able to give you a great report tomorrow.

A special thanks to OhCaptain, who served as our unofficial tour guide for the clinic and surrounding area. We had lunch together and were able to even discuss the next December blogger gathering!

I plan on playing in tonight's BBT5 match. Cya on the virtual felt.