Sorry I didn't update you all yesterday but had a massive headache, those elevators just kill me when it comes to motion sickness!!
Here is the latest update on Randy. Went to see the city docs yesterday. Met w/Dr. Parker (reminded me so much of Russell) who did confirm that he has both forms of liver cancer. There was much discussion on treatment options for the bile duct cancer, but unfortunately the only treatment available is chemo & it has been found to reduce the growth of the tumors only but there is no cure available at this time, also the chemo only works in about 1/3 of those who receive it. MD Anderson cancer center in Houston was mentioned but due to Randy's Hep C he would not be accepted as a candidate for any of their programs, as well as the cancer center in Tulsa. At this time Randy is not showing any symptoms of the bile duct cancer, which will eventually block his bile ducts, his bilirubin blood test is normal. He did state that the symptoms of this cancer usually appear within a year but again he stated that each individual is different and it depends on how aggressive the cancer is. He also gave us the symptoms to watch for so that we will know when the cancer has begun to progress, he will have abnormal bilirubin results, jaundice, weight loss, fatigue, weakness and abdominal pain. He also told Randy to concentrate on his quality of life, not quanitity at this time. As for Dr. Davis (the surgeon) he confirmed that he did remove the whole grapefruit size tumor and the other tumors were killed w/chemo. He removed 25% of Randy's liver which was already dead. So right now we are unsure of how that cancer is progressing. The only way to tell is to do another ct scan or mri which will be discussed w/Dr. K to see if one can be ordered down here so they don't have to travel to the city so often. Dr. Davis was unaware of the 2nd cancer being diagnosed as it was found after Randy left Baptist. He goes back to see his oncologist (Parker) in 3 mths time, doesn't need to return to see Dr. Davis unless he wants too. His incision is healing but there are a couple of spots that haven't healed completely which will be watched. Dr. Davis worked on those yesterday much to Loetta's dismay. It was kind of gross!! As for now Randy has gained a pound since leaving the hospital and his outlook is good. First thing he said was that he was going to go look for a job. The updates will probably slow down for a while unless things begin to progress, so lets pray that the updates are few & far between!!
My next update will be to let you all know how Pop's procedure progressed.
Love to you all,
Lisa
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