not at all what we were expecting

SOTD: Jo Dee Messina "Bring On The Rain"

In the few weeks that have passed since we heard about Andy's tumor, we've had time to absorb the shock and prepare ourselves for the probable diagnosis that would come after his surgery today. 

Or, at least I thought we had. 

Let me explain... 

His surgery began around nine o'clock this morning and when I hadn't heard anything at lunch, I called mom to check in. It was at this time I learned that it had been over an hour and a half since she had been given an update, but at that time, it was simply that he was asleep and the surgery was going well. I took this as a 'no news is good news' situation and continued to wait by the phone. 

Around 2:30pm I got a call from mom with the good news I had been waiting for, Andy was out of surgery! But there was bad news, and it was far worse than any of us were prepared for...

The tumor was larger than the doctors were expecting and despite their best efforts, they were unable to remove it all. It was discovered that the tumor was not Lymphoma as originally thought, but perhaps worse, it's a rare cancer that the doctors aren't familiar with. There were a few complications and a little more bleeding than normal which is expected to make for a longer and more painful recovery process. In the end, it took two screws and a plate to piece my little brother back together. 

Cells from the tumor are being sent to three of the best cancer research hospitals in the region and he his expected to return to Chattanooga next week for more definitive results. As for his current condition, I spoke with mom again around six o'clock tonight and she said he is in a lot of pain. He was able to see and recognize family members in his room about an hour earlier, but she said he did have some trouble completing sentences (which in all honesty could be a side effect of the sedatives or pain meds). Mom also mentioned that she didn't think Andy was aware of the outcome as of yet and she didn't know how or when they would try to explain it to him.

Assuming he doesn't have any set backs overnight, we anticipate he will be released tomorrow. He's got a tough road ahead, especially now that the worst case scenario just got even worse. None of us know what will happen next or how to prepare Andy for the difficult days that lie ahead, but we appreciate all the kind words and prayers you've sent our way more than you will ever know. 

Please continue to keep Andy in your prayers.