Dr. Sawaya, Visit 1 (The Insane Clown Posse Rides Again)
Tumor! Must come out. Probably a 5 hour procedure. Dr. Sawaya says, no big deal, we do 3-5 of these a day. Worst reasonable likelihood is partial visual loss in the upper right visual quadrant, because some optic tracts run through the region of the tumor. Relatively minimal, even if there is loss, maybe won't be able to see airplanes without turning her head toward them. Dr. Sawaya tolerates hugs extraordinarily well, with extensive signs of bona fide reciprocity. He will be aggressive about the tumor removal, and depending on the type of growth, which will be determined in the first 20 min, he gets to be more aggressive, for a more dangerous tumor type or less aggressive for less dangerous tumors. We do not know about follow up treatment, for example with radiation, until the molecular characteristics of the growth are known.
There will be little people in tuxedos delivering her meal orders, from a four star menu, for each meal. That sounds like they're kidding but they are not!
There will be a titanium plate and screws involved. Non magnetic. She'll be up and walking the next day, In answer to our favorite question, "What goes into the big space left behind?", Dr. Sawaya said he will fill that will sterile saline solution. He expects no sheer forces to affect the rest of the parietal lobe above it. I asked "What about if she turns her head, won't momentum make remaining tissue want to slide into that space?" The response was along the lines of, "Trust us. We are expert at this. She'll be fine."
Takeaway: "This is gonna be a blast!" We are all very confident that they are very confident (not arrogant) which is tremendously reassuring to all!
Comments (22)
Shannon, this sounds like very encouraging news. We are thinking of you as you go throu.gh this surgery and recovery
Sounds good👍 Thanks so much for update. 💘💘💘💘💘💘💘💘💘💘
I was afraid they were going to fill the void with marshmallow fluff. Five hours is better than ten and in the worst case, I will remember to stand on her left side. You are in great hands. Trust.
That's my girl.
Thoughts and prayer are still with you and your family during this time. Stay strong and keep the Faith.
So thankful to read the optimism and plan of attack! Love yall and am praying without ceasing!
Thanks, Jason, for this awesome update!!
Thanks for the update!!! Glad you have more information as well as confidence in the surgeon (& who ever heard of a surgeon tolerating hugs?!!! You got a winner!!). Looking forward to hearing more about those little people in tuxedos =)
Sounds like something you can certainly handle Shannon. Jason -- I like your thinking. I too was wondering about things sliding around! Thank goodness you have experts there to keep those of us with little to no knowledge from messing things up!! Thanks for updates -- such loving and happy thoughts coming your way from Lubbock!!
Like real little people? Or just vertically challenged little people?
The Rinaldo family are in our thoughts and prayers -If we can help with Adian in any way, please let us know. Ms. Pat and Ms Debbie All Saints
This sounds scary but optimistic at the same time. My favorite part is "what goes in that space?" I feel like Jason can work that into ALOT of conversations and jokes.
Heads up Jason, my sis was very, very pissed off when the nurse came to get her up the day after neurosurgery for a brain tumor. Very grateful she was alive & tumor was removed; very unhappy because she was dizzy & achy. If sweet Shannon becomes swearing Shannon, I think it's normal. They must move as much for their lungs as anything post-anesthesia.
Luckily, Shannon doesn't know any swear words.
Thank GOODNESS that Shannon does not curse. Neither did my sister, until nurse literally pulled her out of bed 24 hours after surgery. My sis returned to her non-profane life after discharge from hospital, UC-SF. :-) Carry on, Shannon! <3 Eva
Bahahahaha! Shannon doesn't know any swear words!!! Um... she taught me every bad word I know. I know a lot! ;)
I meant to write that Shannon is an absolute angel... all of the time!!!
Jane, Did Shannon hack your account for that last comment ^^? E
Mayyyyybbeeee... or maybe I was just trying to soften the blow for people who really do think Shannon NEVER curses. ;)
No-one can live through this UK basketball season curse-free.
Sending big hugs to Shannon, Jason, & family. Also to Kimberly & Jane. A very stressful time for all. Let's do this so the healing can begin! God bless all the Drs & Nurses for their wisdom, expertise & patience. Love & prayers to you all. Kathy & Bob
Sending good vibrations (insert Beach Boys verse here), and lots of love. Shannon undoubtedly doesn't put up with any bull and this tumor is no different--- it never stood a chance!