The Plan

We've reminded ourselves as we have waited that we are really waiting on God -- and not for a response from a doctor's office. Our waiting has reached the point of having a plan. 

We met with the surgeon this past Monday. The surgeon presented a two surgery approach. Surgery number one will take place Tuesday, January 25. During this surgery, the more pressing need of the enlarged spleen and the pancreas (which is practically one big tumor) will be removed -- and the remaining parts will be "reconnected" as needed. To ensure the tumors in the liver do not continue growing, they will either use radio waves or 'burn' the tumors to disrupt them. The second surgery will take place roughly three months later when Matt has healed sufficiently. At that time they will need to remove two-thirds to three-quarters of the liver. 

We plan to enjoy the time between now and January 25, realizing at that time we'll be facing the challenges of surgery, of the recovery time, and of Matt becoming an instant insulin-dependent diabetic when the pancreas is removed. We've been told to expect the surgery to take roughly 6 hours, for Matt to be in ICU for 12 to 24 hours following surgery, and for a total hospital stay of probably 10 days -- barring complications.

We've a long road ahead, but we know we are not alone. God continues to be faithful, encouraging us when needed, challenging us when needed, and sometimes just wrapping us in His loving arms and comforting us. He has also blessed us through so many of our extended family of God, through their prayers, words of encouragement and expressions of love. We, as believers, are most blessed to have such a wonderful extended family.