Glossectomy

It's been a long day. Dad, Natalie, and I left the house around 5am and sped to the hospital to see Mom before she left for surgery. Thankfully we were able to spend some more time with her before she went into the OR. It was difficult for Mom to try and mentally prepare considering the rapid 24-hour turnaround between her MRI scan and the surgery. Despite the disorienting suddenness of everything, we were all relieved and extremely grateful that the surgery could take place today. At the rate the cancer was spreading, waiting any longer could have been devastating. It really was a blessing that things fell into place such that the surgery could be performed today.

As for the surgery, it was a long and intricate procedure. Mom went under around 8:00am. The surgery took over 11 hours to complete. Approximately 90% of her tongue was removed. The surgeons tested the remaining tongue tissue extensively, and all results indicated that the cancer had been completely removed. Tissue was taken from her thigh and used for tongue reconstruction. A sensory nerve was connected from the reconstructed portion to the remaining part of her tongue. 

Looking ahead things will be extremely difficult, and nothing is certain. Talking will be limited, and will take continual practice to improve. Mom will not be able to swallow at first, but chances are okay that over time she can relearn how to. The trach tube will remain in for at least 1-2 months, and the feeding tube will indefinitely be her primary source of food/water intake.

All things considered, Mom is looking great. She was very uncomfortable at first when she awoke; it's scary, psychologically, breathing through a straw in the neck. Now that she has more medication and is sitting up, she is looking more at ease. She is communicating with a notepad and pencil. In a couple of days, she'll be back to blogging on her new laptop.

I told her that all of the pain she is experiencing will be worth it when she is recovered, cancer-free. I told her to think about visiting my apartment in Chicago and all of the things we'll do together when she visits, including walking along the lake. That made her smile.

Thank you for all of your continued love and support. It gives Mom strength. Thank you Joan Smith for the beautiful orchid.

- Matthew

 

 

Comments

[Ann]

Matthew, thank you so much for posting the update. We are sending prayers, love, and hugs to all of you. Your mom is one tough cookie!

[Connie]

Bless you, Matthew. And Natalie and your dad too. Your whole family is showing so much strength and courage through all of this. Grandpa and I love you.

[Virginia]

Thank you for the update Matthew, it eases my mind. You write so well - just like your mom!
My prayers are not just with your mom, but with you, your dad, and Natalie too. I've notified the Geneva church prayer contingent to bring their power to Lisa too.
I'm glad you're able to be there for her. It's early winter now, but I know spring will bring miracles.

[Barbara Eldridge]

Matthew - Thank you for your post. Your mother has been looking forward to "doing your apartment" - just the occupational therapy she needs! She is constantly in our thoughts & prayers. It is great that you & Natalie could be home at this time. Love, Baba

[Sandy Jelm]

Dear Matthew,
Never doubt or underestimate the powerful strength your mom derives from you and your sister. Your loving presence at this crucial time is making all the difference for both of your parents. We are grateful for your thoughtful posts and that she has you to pass the baton to for all of our sakes. It means so much. Sending love and prayers...
Sandy

[Jenny Scott]

Matthew,
Thank you so much for your heartfelt, informative update. I LOVE that you took a picture of flowers, just like your mom does! I agree with Sandy, the love and support of you, Natalie and your Dad means the world to your mom.
Know that your mom is so loved by SO MANY people. There are untold prayers coming her way. If you need anything at all, please don't hesitate to call on us.
Love,
Jenny Scott

[Annie B.]

I was felt so honored to speak to you and Natalie and your dad last night. I meant every word when telling you how much I love you all. I so appreciated the amazing post (is this another hidden talent?!).
Thank you for your honesty, just like your mom always gives her followers. We will stay positive and upbeat.

I wish I could hug you all right now.
With Love,
Miss B.

[Jan Hofmeister]

Matthew,
How incredibly touching for you to take over
your mom's blog! And adding your mom's signature
flower shots was awesome too. Thanks for making
sense of a long, difficult, and heartfelt day for your mom's many admireres. You, and all of your
family are wonderful! Love, Jan Hofmeister

[Rachel Pavus]

Matthew, we (the Pavis') couldn't agree more with the previous posts. We all love your mom so much and are thinking and praying for all of you so much. Please continue with your updates! We all believe she has the strength to beat this! Hugs to you all!

[Eva Grayzel]

Dear Matthew and Natalie,
I had 1/3 of my tongue reconstructed. I had the honor of meeting your Mom in December so we could compare notes. If I may offer a bit of advice from experience, the next few months will be almost as hard on you as your Mom. You three are the 'primary caregivers' and can best take care of your Mom. Therefore, be sure to take care of yourselves. Cry, talk to friends, find an avenue to experience and cope with your feelings....And, still fine fun in your life. Your mom would want you to still live your lives.

For me, the pain my disease caused my children hurt me more that my disease. I wanted them to be left out of that part....but that wasn't possible. Continually give your Mom reasons to forge forward. Always tell her what you love about her, let her know when you feel her courage and strength, and know that this whole ordeal can also be an opportunity to learn from her, the wisdom that comes through going through a life and death battle.

Please feel free to contact me if you need someone to talk to....or just some suggestions for what to say, what to do....Sometimes, it's best to talk to someone who is not close to your family. My cell is 610-554-9375.

Please let mom know that I am thinking about her, praying for her, and sending all of you wishes for a strong support network, and lots of hugs from your neighbors and friends.
Eva

[Joan]

Mathew - thank you for updating all of us. I send my love and prayers for all of you. Sometimes cancer and its treatment seems like an assault - no wonder metaphors for battle are so often used. I know it is all so hard. Take care of your mom and yourselves. Love Jo

[Joan]

Matthew - Thank you for the pictures and posts. I know how much your mom appreciates your love and support. Please let your family know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.