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Questions Answered, Questions Created

Today was Mark's appointment with the pulmonologist at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. I wish I could say that we came away with answers, good or bad, but instead Mark and I just feel confused.

We got to the appointment about 15 minutes early which gave us plenty of time to fill out the piles of paperwork. As we were filling out the paperwork we noticed a sign that was posted with the names of each of the doctors and whether each of them were on time or not. According to the sign our doctor was right on time so after finishing the paperwork we sat back expecting that we would get in within a few minutes. Well, a few minutes turned into a half hour, which turned into an hour plus. Finally they called us back to our room and the nurse assured us that the doctor was just writing up a couple prescriptions for the previous patient and then he would be right in. Of course right in meant another 20 minutes or so.

The doctor finally came in and proceeded to ask us questions about Mark's test results. According to the doctor he is not concerned about the results, and he thinks the likelihood that the growth in Mark's chest is cancer is small. He does however still feel that a biopsy needs to be done. The best answer we got was concerning the biopsy. I was confused about why it is that they didn't just go ahead and biopsy to begin with. The doctor explained that without a specialist the biopsy could be risky. Normally a doctor would either make a large incision under Mark's lung, move the lung aside and find the infected area. This is a major surgery and would require some down time for recovery. Or the doctor would go in through the throat but because the growth is located close to his aorta they would be at risk for puncturing the blood vessel. It turns out that our doctor is only 1 of 12 in the state that do biopsies of this sort by going through the throat but they use an ultrasound to pinpoint exactly where they are going as they perform the biopsy. Really, that seems pretty logical to me, I wonder why they don't always do that.

The biopsy will be scheduled for either this Thursday, or next Tuesday. After that we wait another 4-5 days to find out if the growth is cancerous. I can say I feel a little better after talking to the doctor. It is nice to be back to thinking there is still a possibility that Mark does not have cancer. Who knows what is going on with his body but maybe just maybe he will be ok. I definitely can go for that. One of Mark's aunts is a nurse and gave us what I consider some information that helped me be even more optimistic. She was saying that our doctor has probably stepped back a few steps to rule out more simple answers for what is going on with Mark. She said that the primary physician read the report and said that it is cancer but really it just suggests that it could be cancer. A good specialist is going to realize that it can still be something other than that.

I continue to feel good about what is going on. A little frustrated with the bedside manner of the doctor, but still good. I feel so much love and support from our family, friends, and neighbors. I am so grateful to know how much we are loved. I wish it didn't take drastic moments like these in order for us to show how much we love each other. I know that the peace I feel is from the supportive prayers of those I love. Thanks you so much!!!

Comments

Dione said…
No cancer is news I can definitely go for! I'll keep praying! Let us know when the surgery is scheduled.
Kate said…
We will keep praying for you guys! I guess as long as the doctor knows what he doing, he doesn't have to have great bedside manners. Keep us posted!
rachel said…
I always feel that the specialists don't have bedside manners... but I guess if they are good than that is the most important. We are praying for the best after the biopsy!
Lourdes said…
I feel the same as Rachel, I've worked for some specialists in the past who seem like they didn't care, but in reality they really didn't have the time to get to know their patients they are so busy that they forget about their bedside manners..I will continue to pray for Mark and your family, I hope that all turns out well. Stay strong and of course let me know if We can help you with anything.
Shelly said…
I didn't know this was going on with your family, you are in my prayers I hope all goes well! Love ya!
Lindz said…
I'm so sorry that your family has to be going through all this right now!! But you are amazing...the faith you exhibit is such a good example to everyone! You guys are in our prayers also and we are hoping for the best from the biopsy!
Shelly said…
I heard the good news from another blog. I am so happy for you and Mark, I hope all is well! :)
Kari said…
Just wanted to let you know that you guys are in my prayers.

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