Day One is Today!
Our Surgeon is a gentle and elegant and reminds me so much of Rocco's Dad who I miss very much. You must know that was the warmest feeling for us when he walked in the room. Annie took great notes while we had a group huddle.
Here's what we know. Today we can rest and enjoy the day, but tomorrow Rocco has to fast for a couple of important photo shoots.
Dr. Z. reviewed the images. Two separate tumors. One is very close to the surface. The other is deeper. The two are not connected. They look slightly different in shape but that may be due to the different density of tissues in each area.
There is the possibility that these tumors may be the result of an airborne infection and not cancer. Rocco was in Europe last year a few times.
Dr. Z. brought in Dr. C to order CAT scan to rule out the possibility that these are secondary brain tumors (cancer elsewhere in the body that has spread to the brain)
Dr. Z ordered another MRI on Thursday before surgery.
Dr. Z. will biopsy the superficial tumor on Friday and remove it. Because there is swelling in that area, hopefully that will give some relief from the happy laid back quiet guy symptoms Rocco is having. Hopefully, the information gained from the biopsy of the first tumor along with tomorrow's images and bloodwork will help determine the best way to deal with the second.
And ...can I just tell you how much Rocco loves and appreciates your supportive posts, especially the idea to be a collective with simultaneous quiet time today thank you Ms. Rushing. That was pretty darn amazing. We closed our eyes together with all of you and we could feel the power of it all. Of God and prayer, of love and hope.

Comments (19)
<3 you guys!
Sending tenderness to all of you.
Praying for you. My mother is a brain tumor/cancer survivor of 21 years, so I know a little of what you're going through! God bless you! -Erin Smith (CCM academic advisor for bachelor of music programs)
My dear friend, mentor and colleague Rocco. Fight like a red zone chicken! I'm one block away-1 minute by car, two minutes by foot. You both (all three of you) are in my thoughts and prayers.
Thank you, thank you for keeping us up to date.
With all of you in spirit. <3
thank you for this update. Love to you all
It has been quite a few years since I ran the Playhouse, and we worked on numerous shows together. But I still remember vividly your entering the rehearsal room with extraordinary joy, spirit. You were a wonder. Every actor could relax-they were getting help from someone who loved actors. One more note: I am so sorry that you have to go down this dark road. But take it from someone with pancreatic cancer who was given six months to live. That was seven years ago. Miracles do happen. Believe. Much, much love. Ed Stern
Oh Rocco and family. Hope, love, prayers.
Sending love, light, and peace your way along with healing thoughts and prayers but mostly, love!
Will be thinking of Rocco and all of you this week, sending you good thoughts, and wishing and hoping for the best. (Wish I was around to help your family in any way I could!)
I hope this message makes it to you Rocco. We met last year when I visited CCM and expressed my deep desire to move over from another UC College to work with you and in fine arts. I have held onto your business card because it represents hope, joy, and full understanding. When we met, I felt a sense of understanding, value, and mutual respect I'd never experienced in a work setting. Sadly, positions did not open up, however you touched my life and inspired me not to settle. I'm a Communications Manager at P&G for now and still performing on the side (as I was in the last five years when we met). Our paths WILL meet again. Thank you from the depths of my heart for being you! In just one 40 minute meeting, I got to experience what all these people who love you have come to know for years. Best wishes and safe and swift recovery. Prayers, leslie kelly wigger
Thank you for this beautifully written message. It is settling to know more about what is happening and how you are all getting through. Our family is so fully and completely behind you guys. There are no words to describe the ways in which Rocco has changed the course of our lives. He is an inspiration of love, laughter, strength, guts, and life. Always living life to the fullest. We will continue to be with you every day; holding space, breathing deep, softening, accepting, listening, and lifting the three of you up with our thoughts of love. Peace to you this evening.
Denise, thank you so much for the updates. Love to you, to Rocco, and to your entire family. We're sending all our love and thinking of you all at noon and around the clock! xoxoxo
Sending love and light and peace and prayers from San Diego.
Dear, dear, Rocco. I am holding you in the light. You are such a gift to the world.
I'm so very very sorry. Praying for a speedy recovery to health. Rocco is so appreciated, his ability to reframe things to a new perception is invaluable. Much love.
Dear Rocco, sending you back so much of the love and encouragement you have poured into my children, Tom and Jenn Korbee since the '90's. Your generosity of spirit made such a great impact on their lives, and I am so thankful for you and Denise. Lots of love coming your way as you enter this night.
Thank you, Rocco for all your kindness and generosity. You are consistently in my thoughts and hopes. Much love