Pi/Pie Day

Dear mathematicians, especially Megan: I know it's Pi day (3.14). Read on for how it connects with me today.

Today we met two new doctors, my oncologist Dr. Moore and my surgeon Dr. Collins. Double new patient forms, lists of medications, my medical history, my family's medical history.

He had the results of my colon biopsy--malignant. No completely far-out possibility of something else. Pie in the face #1. The oncologist had me take a blood test (CEA--cancer embryonic antigen) to determine a baseline number now and watch for improved results with future tests. He showed us results from the CT scans, especially where the cancer is lurking in the colon and the liver. Yes, the liver. I thought liver cancer was still a probability, but it's a reality. Pie in the face #2.

He scheduled me for a PET/CT scan tomorrow. I still have not found out what PET stands for, but it will "generate high-resolution images" of the presence of cancer. I go to a place called PET Imaging (not a place to photograph your pooch, apparently). Tonight, in addition to my dietary restrictions from Celiac disease--diagnosed six month ago, and the low fiber diet from my colon blockage, I add no carbohydrates. Okay, no gluten, no fiber, no carbs, but it's one evening only--not pie-worthy.

He then told us of the treatment plan. Liver cancer trumps colon cancer, so we work on chemotherapy as quickly as possible. So I need surgery to insert a colostomy bag. Pie in the face #3. This will temporarily solve the colon blockage, at the same time as adding an accessory for the next four months or so. After chemotheraphy in completed, I will have another surgery to remove the blockage and resection the colon. I am quite familiar with discussing pooping/not pooping after visiting my two-and-a-half-year-old grandson Tyler. Let the jokes begin!

Later today we met with the surgeon, who scheduled the surgery for Wednesday morning, and who happens to be a colon and liver cancer survivor himself. Definitely no pies here! The surgery will have another purpose: to insert a Power Port to act as a portal for chemo drugs. When the wounds heal in a couple of weeks, I can begin chemotheraphy.

I am ready for the next two days! I will be home tomorrow after the PET scan and perhaps can blog, but I will be in the hospital recuperating from surgery for two to four days and won't be able to blog.

Send warm thoughts, healthy vibes, and especially prayers my way! Blessings to all of you!