Monday, June 3, 2013

Grandfather Update

There’s no beating around the bush so I will get right to it.

During my grandfather’s colonoscopy on Friday, they discovered that he has colon cancer. It’s a very early and small-ish tumor and it was oozing, which played a big part in his drop in blood counts. He was also taking a low dose blood thinner which is what played a huge roll in his rapid blood loss.

After lengthy discussions with the surgeon, the gastroenterologist, the cardiologist, and his primary care doctor, we’ve weighed all the options and decided that it would cause him more harm to remove the tumor at this point. He would have to endure general surgery and he’s 92 years old - anesthesia and recovery from a procedure like that doesn’t have a good outcome with someone of his age with his health issues. I’ve told everyone, we just want to be reasonable and we want to do the right thing - unfortunately in this case, there is no right or wrong answer. I don’t want to push anything on my grandfather that is not reasonable, which includes surgery or any type of treatment. His physicians do not believe that the tumor will cause him additional harm in his lifetime (perforation of the bowel, blockages, etc). They think something else will get him before the tumor will.

We also had the opinion of an oncologist but he’s NOT who I wanted my grandfather to see and when I found out who was on call, I already knew what his determination would be before he even came in the room. I’m making an appointment with an oncologist of MY choice this week, not for chemo…just to discuss options and his opinion.

The hospital my grandfather is staying in is NOT the one I work at and he’s on the heart floor, not the oncology floor. Let’s just say he (and we) have had less than “excellent” care this hospital boasts. Most of the nurses don’t know me, which also means they don’t realize who I know, including the oncology nurse manager of the hospital. I’ve already spoken with her and she gave great advice and told me to call if I need anything.

Anyway, my grandfather is bound and determined to get back home. Whether that happens or not, we will see. At the moment, the plan is for him to go back to the care center to resume physical therapy and go from there. Thanks again for all of the prayers and concern! We appreciate it more than you could possibly ever know!

Also, don’t forget about my Zensah Argyle Compression Socks Giveaway! Ends on Friday!

25 comments:

  1. Been wondering how your grandfather was doing. Thanks for the update. He is so very lucky to have a granddaughter like you :)

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    1. Thank you! :0) I feel pretty lucky myself...he's been an amazing grandfather!

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  2. Sending love your way! So sorry to hear about your grandfather :/

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  3. I get chills every time I her carrie sing that. I am so sorry to hear about your grandfather, brings back memories of Bobby's dad and dealing with all of that. I feel your pain. I hope you can get some options soon!

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    1. Love Carrie's version of that song! :0) Thank you!

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  4. Sorry to hear about your Grandfather.

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  5. I'm so sorry Karen. It sounds like you are doing what you can and you are right, there's just no right or wrong answer at this point. I'm thinking of you guys!

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    1. Thanks for the thoughts...they are much appreciated! :0)

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  6. Prayers continue to ascend for you and for your grandfather, and those who get to care for him!!!!

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    1. Really appreciate the prayers...thank you, Sarah!

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  7. Sending happy thoughts and prayers to your grandfather and family. Hoping everything goes as smoothly as can be. *hugs*

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  8. Aw, Karen. I'll be at an hour of prayer tonight at church, and I'll be lifting up you, your grandfather, and your family.

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    1. I really appreciate that, Laura!! Thank you SO much!

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  9. So sorry about your Grandpa, but it is good that he has you to look out for him. I would not even know where to begin.
    Sometimes I think all the problems of old age are just designed to help us get ready to leave this earth and eager to see Jesus. I pray for wisdom and especially that your Grandpa's last months or years continue to be rewarding!

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    1. That's a good way to view it...I agree with you! Thank you so much!

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  10. Karen, I'm so sorry to hear this sad news. I'm glad, though, that your granfather seems to be motivated and determined to get back home. I'll keep him and your family in my thoughts and prayers. I also hope the next oncology appointment later this week goes well.

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    1. I really appreciate it! Thank you so much! :0)

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  11. Praying for you and your grandfather girl! I'm sure you will make the right choice for him. He's so lucky to have you! LOVE Carrie's version of this song...chills!!!!

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  12. Sorry to hear it isn't better news, hopefully he can be made comfortable and will get the best care.
    You are such an amazing grand daughter *hugs*

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  13. Thanks for the update Karen. I will continue to keep him and you in my prayers.

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  14. So sorry your going through this Karen. You & your family are in my thoughts

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  15. Prayers are with you and your family!

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