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My RC on Weds., 7/25, University of Washington Medical Center
I was dx’d in early March….treatment plan was for 3-4 months of MVAC chemo and then RC….it seems I have been on this journey forever and now my surgery date is almost here. It took me weeks and months to do enough research so I could accept the idea of someone cutting on me….and even then, as Pat would tell you, I would sometimes start to back away from the idea. I prayed God would give me the strength needed for this journey while my spouse prayed for a miracle….that miracle being that the doctor would come in at the last minute and tell us that I didn’t need any surgery…..finally, I told my husband that this is the miracle….the fact that doctors have the expertise and resourses to give us a new bladder when cancer wants to take ours from us.
Yesterday I went in so the doctors could do one last peek & poke. I met the doctor who will be assisting my surgeon….he was very attentive in responding to my questions and concerns….great bed side manner, and all the staff who helped to prep me and then care for me after, were all just wonderful. I awoke from the anethesia just feeling happy and so blessed. It was just a very good experience and what I needed to ease my mind and spirit in preparation for next week.
Unless I find a PC at the hospital, you won’t hear anything from me for at least six weeks or possibly more. I will be recovering at my in-laws and they don’t have a PC. But I will ask my daughter to contact Pat after I am out of surgery and she can put in a quick update on me. I think we feel better when we get word on how someone is recovering…..and when we don’t hear anything, that tends to disturb some of us.
My thanks to all who have helped me along this journey….esp. Wendy, Pat and Holly who have had to spend extra time coaching me….but without that continue encouragement, I would have been lost. Without the benefit of this webpage, I am fairly certain that I would have just stopped all medical proceudres after having the TURB done.
And so, I am to get an Indiana Pouch this next Weds. and believe I have chosen one of the best doctors for the job. I have faith in the healing power of our dear Lord, I believe in the skill of my doctors and staff and I believe in me. This warrior is signing out for now. Praying we all find the strength to do what we must do. Take care. Melodie
Melodie, Indy Pouch, U.W.Medical Center, Seattle, Dr. Paul H. Lange & Jonathan L. Wright