Surgery went well!!

I was counting down the days for this one because I had so much bladder/urethra pain from the tumors. It was pretty excruciating, but at least I got to spend a little time with Fiona on her 6th birthday!

I had forced Liam to take a vacay in Tacoma the first week of July, and he was fortunately on his plane when I had to be admitted to the hospital for neutropenic fever from my chemo treatment (otherwise he may not have left). Knowing he was getting this break and having such a wonderful time made me so happy during tough moments in the hospital. But then unfortunately he got COVID! Likely from the plane. And he caught it very early so all of us are doing ok!

At first when Liam tested positive, I was like: the universe is out to destroy me and my family. And I think it was ok to feel that way for some time, but then I was doing a meditation sent by my Aunt Dona to try and get out of fight or flight mode and into rest and digest (which is when you can heal by activating that vagus nerve). The session said something about "trusting the universe" and I was resistant, but then I realized that the disease I have and the fact that Liam got COVID are random unlucky things. There isn't some evil force out to get us. So I tapped into all the love in the universe, the love I feel, and the love I get from others. And it really helped me!

My mom and Aunt Gwenny were here while Liam was at a hotel. Janice and Mike helped a lot, per usual, and Libba, Stevie, Usha were here to help with my two earlier hospital visits. And so many folks help in other ways when they can't be here in person. Tessa sent me a large water bottle I thought was too big, but the docs told me I needed to drink a gallon a day, so it served me well. ❤ It's so vital and amazing for us to have this kind of support.

Anyway, back to surgery update. Dr Grignol removed the tumors! They had to take out a relatively large portion of my bladder but at least I still have it! They also had to remove some of my small intestines and colon but were able to re-attach them together. Here's to hoping those organs heal well! It's difficult to get really clear margins with any sarcoma surgery, but I know I'm in good hands and my surgeon did all she could, with help from urologist Dr Dason.

My recovery is going well so far. Have an epidural to help with pain, so I can try to avoid narcotics, which my body doesn't really like. The staff here are amazing. Unionized nurses! ❤

I really appreciate all the love and support from you all.

Will try and update again when I'm home from the hospital which should be early-mid next week.

Hugs to everyone,

Molly