Friday, November 15, 2008

First post, so if you have not been up to speed, here is what is happening with our beloved Marianna.

On Thursday, November 8, Richard ran her to the ER at St Jude's for what she thought was digestive issues. By Friday we realized we were in for much more than that. Marianna has advanced, stage 3 ovarian cancer, which has spread to the rest of her abdominal cavity. She had surgery on Wednesday, November 12, and the surgeon's prognosis was not optimistic. However, we all know Marianna, and she is not ready to accept that answer, she is prepared to fight if she can. So at this point we are trying to get a second opinion, so that she can make informed decisions on her care. Someday I may share the saga of frustration at navigating the oncology system, but for now we will focus on what we can do to help Marianna. All I can say is, doctors need to figure out that it is a medical degree, not a new religion establishing their own deity.

As of Friday, Marianna was sitting up at a table and chair, eating clear foods like broth and Jello, and has been taking short walks in the hospital hallways. The cancer had completely blocked her colon, but she has now learned to care for her own colostomy care, and like everything else she does, she is taking that in stride. Marianna welcomes visitors, although we do suggest keeping visits to 15-30 minutes, as she tires easily.

Marianna has always been prone to bronchitis, and had developed the infection before surgery. As you can imagine, coughing with a fresh incision is painful, and talking for extended periods brings in the shortness of breath, thus the need for this blog. If we can keep you updated, then her conversations can be short and happy, and we can take better care of her while making sure that those who love her (and we are legion) stay up to speed on her condition.

Either Richard or Cynthia will update this blog daily, more often if news comes in. You may also contact us directly. Cynthia's cell phone number is 714-292-0042 or email at Cynthia_Ward@sbcglobal.net

Thanks for loving our girl.