We flew out of Rochester with a storm on our tails, but thanks to Brad Pugh (Randy and Gail’s son) he flew us safely into Zeeland last night. We were greeted by our family and friends – including Randy and Gail at the airport. It was awesome. There were balloons, flowers and best of all, our kids. The Pugh’s were so kind to take Brooklyn, Avery and my dad for a plane ride too. Brooklyn LOVED it.
What blows my mind is that I had this big procedure yesterday, flew home the same day and can recuperate at home. I am so glad to be home. Speaking of the procedure, overall it went well. The worst part was having the head frame applied. The local anesthetic they used felt like a million bee stings. It was really painful. Then a few minutes later the neurosurgeons turn the screws into my skull to secure the frame It seemed barbaric. Within moments I couldn’t feel any pain in my head, just pressure and the frame.
I then went for an MRI. The doctors met to discuss my treatment. Then I had the procedure. I laid on a table for 1 hour 40 minutes while five tumors were radiated. I slept for most of the procedure – thanks to the “I don’t care” medicine. When it was done, they removed the frame, applied a bandage around my head and sent me to my recovery room where I could meet Dusty again. After an 1 1/2 hours we left the hospital and went back to the hotel.
I clarified with Dr. Parney (neurosurgeon) that the five tumors they found on the MRI were the existing tumors and not new ones. That was a big relief to me.
My next steps are an MRI in a couple months to see how the Gamma Knife worked. I’m also going to begin working with the University of Michigan and am working on getting an appointment with them.
Today I feel very tired. My head hurts and my eyes are swollen. Small price to pay.
Thank you for your prayers. For those who held us up in prayer whether you were at church, home, work or wherever. God is good and has done great things for me. I saw Him many times while we were at Mayo. I love it when He shows up.
Saturday is the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. I can’t wait to see everyone there.