Dan

Great news! Dan is doing well enough that he can go home Saturday, that's tomorrow, January 12, '08! He walked 200' today using a walker. Thank you for your continuing prayers on Dan's behalf.

If you are interested in the more technical information, read further. The pathology report is in - it was a leiomyo sarcoma (meaning "sarcoma in the muscle"), Grade II/III, size:
11 X 7 X 6.8 centimeters. The pathology report said that the cancer cells go up to the perimeter of the posterior of the mass. This type responds very well to radiation treatment.

Here is the more specific information given to us today: The assumption is that there are microscopic cancer cells in the thigh area that was next to the edge of the back area of the cancer. The PET Scan will only show larger cells. The microscopic will escape notice
by the PET Scan. Therefore, THE ONCOLOGIST ASSUMES Dan will have radiation treatment daily 5 days a week for 4 - 5 weeks as an outpaitient at this hospital.

The incision has to be partially healed before the PET Scan is taken so that it will not show up as an area with cancer cells. The Pet Scan will be done week after next. BEAR IN MIND, HOWEVER, THAT THE RADIOLOGIST WILL DETERMINE IF RADIATION IS INDICATED. HE HAS THE FINAL WORD AFTER HE READS THE PET SCAN.

The Social Worker is arranging Dan's Home Health Care. A nurse will come one time and teach me how to change the bandage daily, and how to empty the drain pump that is inserted into the wound. Are we having fun yet???

We thank God that there is effective treatment for this type of cancer. May God bless you and be merciful to you.

Love, Anne and Dan