Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Faith in our doctor

Mike had an extremely anxious morning before the doctor's appointment. I got an e-mail from my cousin yesterday who, among other things, told me that knowledge is power. She said we would have an intuitive feeling about choosing the right doctor. The neurosurgeon that we visited this morning is indeed the right man to do this surgery. Mike will have surgery on Thursday morning at 11:30. The tumor is situated in the best possible place in his brain for surgery. It is in his right temporal lobe just inside his skull. Because of its position, the doctor assured us that there would be no residual effects. Because it is a stage 3 cancer, Mike will need to have all 3 stages of treatment, surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. The doc said the surgery will last about 3 hours, that Mike will be in intensive care overnight, and that his hospital stay should last about 3 or 4 days. An oncologist will meet with us in the hospital to set up Mike's treatment after his recovery from surgery. Mike was quick to ask the doctor when he would be able to return to work... We will be very cautious to make sure Mike has sufficient healing before his return, however, you all know Mike and know that his work is his passion and he will be back before long.

Hannah is flying in tomorrow and we all feel good about that. Tyler went with us to the doctor's visit and took copious notes. Dear Andy is working diligently trying to finish a project at the office... I think he worked all night. I don't know what Mike would do without him right now. We are again so gratful for amazing children who are strengthening us so much.

We feel encouraged with today's results. Thanks again for all of your loving thoughts and prayers. Let us all press on!

Nancy

12 comments:

  1. Nancy--Thanks for posting the information about the appointment today so quickly. I have been checking on and off this afternoon as I am sure others have been doing too. We are glad to know that Mike has the right doctor and you have a plan to go forward with. We love your family and will continue to keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. I will add your names at the temple when I go Thursday morning.
    Love, Patty and Everett

    ReplyDelete
  2. Nancy,

    You are incredible to keep us informed. Each child is praying for Brother Ellis. We love you!

    Tiffany

    ReplyDelete
  3. I am so happy that you have the right doctor and that the tumor is in a good place for surgery and no residual effects. We will be praying hard on Thursday that things go well, and quickly. Thanks for the update!

    ReplyDelete
  4. My heart is aching to give you a hug, my dear Nancy. I have been thinking all day what I could possibly do or say that would help. Our prayers are with you and we send our love. The spirit is a wonderful gift; I'm glad you can feel good about the surgeon.

    I hope your white tulips are still blooming and bringing you joy.

    Love,
    Sarah and Scott Paulsen

    ReplyDelete
  5. My prayers and thoughts are with you, Mike, and all your family as you make this difficult journey. May God provide you comfort, support and love in days and weeks ahead.

    ReplyDelete
  6. I am amazed that you are taking the time to think of others and attend to our needs at this time. Thank you for keeping us informed. If there is anything Joe and I can do, please let us know. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers - and wish Mike a speedy return to work.

    April Dowdle

    ReplyDelete
  7. Camp Crosley Staff are praying for you Mike, and Nancy and family! As our summer staff say at our staff meetings, "God is good, all the time, all the time God is good!"

    Richard

    ReplyDelete
  8. I'm so glad that all of your children are able to be with you -- what a comfort!

    ReplyDelete
  9. Blessings to you Brother!

    I can't tell you enough what a wonderful testament of God's faithfulness, love and grace you and Nancy are to our family and our community. Both Jennifer and I, and our children are praying daily for you and Nancy, and your children.

    Your Walk is strong; one to be modeled and emmulated. One of my prayers is that we all seek and walk the path you found with Christ so long ago. We don't have to wait to have a fruitful and intimate relationship with God. It is ours to have now!

    Love,
    Andrew

    ReplyDelete
  10. Mike, Nancy and Fam:
    You know how much that you both have meant to me and the kids over the years. We would do ANYTHING for you and I am just a phone call away. I am sending positive thoughts, prayers, and hugs your way!
    Love to all of you, Jane

    ReplyDelete
  11. Mike, you have been in our thoughts and prayers constantly. Mike you are a good man. Be well.........

    ReplyDelete
  12. Nancy, Hannah, Andy, Tyler--Your strength has made us much stronger. Naturally we would like to be with you all of the time, but we know you are very strong and the kids are solid rocks. We love all of you so much and certainly that is including Mike. We can make this journey together as we look to our wonderful savior who is really in charge.
    "We can do anything through Christ who strengthens us." We are so pleased that you have posted this blog and that you call us often. You as well as Molly and Alice are special kids and we are so proud of all of you. We love all of you every minute of each day and want you to ALWAYS know that. Love and prayers. Mom and Dad (aka:Jane and Bill).

    ReplyDelete