1 week of radiation left!!
It has been quite the week. Radiation is catching up to Derek. Thankfully there are only 5 more radiation treatments!! HOORAY! He had a rough day with increased pressure behind his eyes Tuesday. That was short lived, but he is definitely more tired this week and the steady schedule of appointments is starting to get to him. He had a very difficult evening Friday night. Lots of emotions about having cancer. We talked a lot, but we touched on how hard it is for adults to have and deal with cancer, and it is only understandable that a kid would have a hard time as well.
I would like to thank all of the kids and teachers at Legacy Christian Academy for the bag full of cards, letters and pictures of encouragement and Bible verses for Derek. It was such a wonderful surprise and what an amazing gift. THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU!!
We went to a wonderful children's theatre play Friday night. Derek made it the first hour and was too tired to stay. Kate wanted so badly to see the whole play, but has been a very understanding sister, even when it is difficult.
I met with the Ear, Nose and throat(ENT)surgeon, oncologist and my plastic surgeon this week. My surgery will be February 16th. The summary of it all is that they do not know how in depth it will be until they get in there. The surgeon will remove the tumor and while I am still under, the pathologist will determine if it is all removed or not. After she has gotten it all(hopefully) the plastic surgeon will go to work. His approach depends on how the surgery goes. Once the tumor is removed, I will have a golf ball sized divet that he will have to fill behind my jaw. He has 3 plans for filling but will not know what method until the ENT Dr is done. I will have a drain in my face for 3-5 days after surgery. It won't be a very long hospital stay, probably just overnight. I will be out of commission for 2 weeks. The oncologist said he will know if I need to see him after the tumor is removed. Thankfully radiation is a last resort as it causes it's own issues in the area of the mouth. This type of cancer is rare. That's just how we roll.
I also had a chest CT this week. Looked pretty good but my ENT Dr is checking out about some spots in my liver. Never a dull moment.
Comments (11)
New Years Eve has nothing on this countdown! Be strong, little man! Still praying for a smooth surgery for mama! Love and hugs everyone! ...and Kate, you are the bestest little sister ever. <3
Very nice picture of all of you. So nice to see the big smiles. I'm sure Derek is getting worn out with all of the running to and fro plus the radiation. It's hard to believe he is only 8 and going through all of this. Kate sure is a special little sister. Give them big hugs from both of us. Sounds like you have a very serious surgery coming up also. We pray that all goes well for you and Derek. Our prayers are with your family. Rudy and Hazel
Angela, you continue to amaze Total respect and admiration Best wishes for you, Derek, Kate & Ryan Defiantly Troopers
Derek you are one strong Lil guy, Kate you are such a great lil sister and Angela well this just show where these 2 lil ones get it from. What A family of Troopers!! Continued thoughts and prayers for your family.
Oh my sweet Angela I would give my life if it would bring you and your very special boy Derek back to great health. Your faith amazes me and your grace inspires me. I love you very much
Hello Young family. I think of you often, what you are going through, how brave you all are, how strong you are and your remarkable attitudes in the face of it all. I applaude you! I know Randy calls you storm troopers. I call you the Incredables because, you are. Stay strong, I know you will.
Thank you for the update! what awesome pictures! We love you and continue bringing your whole family before the throne of God each day! You are fighting this fight so valiantly!!
Keep your strong faith Angela. They will get it all and the plastic surgeon can do amasing things. I am sure you all will be glad when Derek's radiation treatments are done on Friday. Maybe a celebration of some kind if Derek feels up to it. God Bless and Keep you all.
Stay strong love you all. Denise
Your inner strength amazes me! Hey, remember the envelop you sent to me with your Biggest Loser entry $$$?!? I KNEW you would do it! Your strength exists in all facets of your life! Stay strong, love you all...Kristin
You have a truly inspirational attitude! I hope nothing but strength and love for your family in the months ahead.