This time, a colonoscopy. Dr. Sardi wanted this procedure done prior to the surgery. We had it scheduled a few weeks ago but for one reason or another the VA decided to cancel it and not actually inform us. We found out about a week ago and have been trying to get it confirmed.
We found out today that there is apparently no facility within a 100 mile radius that can do this prior to the surgery. Thankfully, the VA approved us doing it out of state - so it looks like we will be flying to Baltimore early to get it done there.
Only trouble is, the medication. The VA supplies their medication but it takes 7-10 days. Unless we can somehow pull off a miracle, we'll likely end up having to pay out of pocket for the medication. But that's fine - I would much rather pony up the cash for it than have to push the surgery date back.
With that said, this is just additional stress I really don't need at this time. I feel like I have the weight of the world on my shoulders right now and I don't know where to find the strength to keep standing.
But I will. I know I will.
As if Chad needed any more bad news, his uncle passed away yesterday. :( The viewing is tomorrow and the funeral on Friday. Chad will be one of the pallbearers which is going to be tough on him because he is decidedly not comfortable at all around funerals/death.
It's such an emotional roller coaster. Even the good news is bad because it's all about cancer.
With all the depressing mumbo jumbo, I am still rejuvenated by the love and support of family and friends. It just seems like people keep coming through for us and it's moments like that that I draw strength from. So if you're out there and you've done something today that made a difference (You know who you are) - Thank-You. I hope you understand the impact you're having on our lives xo
Coming Soon: Reflections
Telling the Kids - I will dedicate a Blog entry to what it was like to finally tell the children everything that has been going on.
God and Prayers - I also want to dedicate an entry to something that has become very important to our family. We may not be the most religious people on the planet and despite receiving the awful diagnosis, I believe with all my heart that God is watching over us and that Chad is meant to survive this. Too many things have happened over the past weeks to ignore - that someone, somewhere - is watching over us, guiding us and giving us the strength to fight this.
This is the story of Chad's fight against Appendix Cancer. On January 7, 2015 Chad found out just how special he was when he was told that not only did he have Cancer but it was extremely rare and very aggressive. Chad has always taken life by storm - so why stop now? Some may have crumpled and fell but the soldier in him took over and he decided then and there he had an infinite number of reasons to kick Cancer's ass. The road will never be easy but he will fight - and he will win.
You betcha God is watching over you. I won't take up your space here telling you about our son with his liver problems only to say that we have seen the hand of God from the time he was born until the present. He will be 25 in July and was not expected to survive without a transplant by the time he was two years old. He's on the list, but not sick so we don't look for him to need a transplant in the near future. NEVER GIVE UP ON GOD, Shannon and Chad. He never gives up on us. No matter what happens in the end, God will show His hand and will give you strength and peace even when you don't know what to pray. God bless you both and your family. Love you, Shannon!
ReplyDeleteAMEN! Shannon, I am so impressed with your documentation of this journey with the big
ReplyDelete"CA". (I was a nurse) I'm so impressed with your determination in getting the right treatment for your husband. You are such an example and I feel your story will help those in similar situations. I could see this turning into a movie. Perhaps there are many like this, but your journey may be different. who Knows? I also want to comment on the MOST IMPORTANT decision in your life, and that is when everyone else lets you down, when there is no where else to turn, that's when God has your attention. I truly hope the Lord Jesus Christ will send you his Holy Spirit (The Comforter) to guide, comfort and give you the strength. You, Shannon have been through a lot and your devotion to your husband is commendable. Hats off to you and you will be in our prayers. PRAYERS WORK!! I won't go in to what we deal with but I'll quickly tell you that Ace has had Parkinson's for 17 years, it's controlled and his voice isn't as loud as it once was... I do my best to help him live each and every day of his life enjoying what he loves and has done his whole life ( the worries, the myriad of meds, the timing of meds for gigs etc..) I have suffered tremendously with my low back and have been avoiding surgery.. I was informed last Friday that the spinal stenosis/ bulges in L4=5 & S1 require immediate surgery otherwise I will be paralyzed. One day at a time. I also have an autistic son who takes up a lot of our time, and PRAYERS HAVE BEEN ANSWERED in may ways. I will keep you posted, but Believe with your whole heart and soul and surrender to HIM. You will get through this. Blessings sent your way ~ Ace & Roxy