got my path report yesterday

rather then jump right into operation (and we havent even talked to doc yet) we would like to put ducks in row (you dont leave town for acouple of months without making some plans)..will enjoy trip to see close friends..and make the arrangements for our stay in CT
i feel this is the correct choice for me and hearing you talk about your husband success is very reaasuring..thank you very much

now : how long was operation ?/how long before going home ?/things i should be aware of ?/whats his biggest complaint ?

thanks again

Peter,

You have same path as my husband Gene, Stage 3 T-2,, contained in the bladder. He had surgery Sept. 14th, no chemo, no radiation. He has the outside bag, it is a good choice in our opinion. Who wants a bag ? Those who don't want the agrivation of incontinence, and all the work that goes with a neo bladder. Yes it takes awhile to get use to it, but now 7 months from surgery its a piece of cake..
One thing, are you trying to spare yourself some months before surgery, waiting til August? just wondered. Its good they are sending it out for the second opinion, its always a good thing !!!! Ginger

Hello Peter,

I am there with you. It is a relief to come to a decision on which option fits best for your individual life style and so forth. One size does not fit all.

I'm a couple of weeks out from the surgery - my choice is the Indiana pouch. Have to admit I have my melt downs. Sometimes I wish I hadn't asked so many questions - specially what they are actually going to be doing. Ignorance has its benefits. I will be happy to have it behind me. And Karen is right - keeping it all in perspective is so very important.

My sister sent me a tape that is to help those facing cancer surgery. It says to look at the surgery as a healing process, letting go of something that no longer serves you and opening up yourself to better health.

There are so many angels out there that will tell you time and time again that although the surgery may not be the best experience - you get through it. Then you move on. From everything I have read - the diversion choice you are looking at is the least complicated of the procedures.

Wish you well.

Best,
Gracie

Peter,

Sounds good. I am glad that cancer is localized. Keep your weight and spirits up. Stay in touch. Let me know if I can help.

Regards,

Peter Konomos

Grampadonut,

I am glad you and your Dr agree about the second opinion. Memorial Sloan Kettering is a top hospital in this field..You should at the least feel comfortable that they are having a look, and I would trust their opinion...It will be a state of the art facility to have you operation. I am glad that you have made a decision about the diversion too, it does seem the most practical for your lifestyle...It will get easier to handle now that you know what you are dealing with...The fear of the unknown is always worse than what actually is...

Enjoy your family and friends...they are truly what life is all about anyway...the way we get rid of urine seems so insignificant when you know that you have a full life ahead of you....

Wishing you well,
Karen

good /bad news
have t2-g3..good news confinded to bladder for now..after given options by doc (very esay to talk to)..bcg/6 times.scope..scrape if needed..repeat 3-4mos
if i went this route..would also need "seed" implant for cancer of prostate
in talking with uro..he feels even with these treatments in 3-4yrs bladder would have to come out and having had "seed" implants would make it tougher to get prostate out
he gladly welcomed 2nd option and is sending slides (?) to sloan-kettering (sp) in NYC (he knows lead doc there)
if results come back as expected..we will leave vegas mid july (stopping to see friends in tx/fl/nc/pa ) and have bladder/prostate out 1st couple of weeks of aug
thinking of going with ext bag..reasons..lenght of operation/leakage/life style (ride motorcycles/drive limo)/ease of use
and very important..s/o is comfortable with my decision..we all need support

sorry to have rambled..but wanted to let everyone know where i'm at..and thank everyone on this site for all the GOOD you/they are doing
thank you
peter
anyone with any questions please write grampadonut42@aol.com..and i will try to answer as best i can