Don't put it off...

"Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."

Matthew 6:34

I have seen a neck surgeon and a general surgeon since my last post. In a nutshell, we were less than impressed by the neck surgeon's bedside manner and explanation of what needs to be done surgically. The general surgeon was incredibly helpful, listened to all of our questions, and patiently answered the most ridiculous ones. Even though they both told us the same surprising news that I cannot have a partial thyroidectomy, but I need a total instead. Delivery is key no matter how "non-cancer" this cancer is!

I had my consultation with him two days ago, his office called me yesterday and the surgery is scheduled this Monday, February 10th! Why put it off?! Nate has a holiday weekend next week, so this works best with our schedule. Also, getting it done this fast does not give us time to worry or "be anxious for tomorrow." I know I am in good hands, partially because I've seen this doctor for another issue in the past, and also because the Oncologist I work for sends all of our patients to him. He has a wonderful reputation in our community, and I feel very fortunate that he's especially skilled in Thyroidectomy surgery.

I had my pre-operative appointment this morning at the hospital. My dear friend Ann was able to drive down to take care of Sam so that Nate could go to work and get things in order to be off a few days next week. My mom will be staying at our house Monday night to help Nate with Sam. We also chose to have the surgery at the closest hospital, a 4 minute drive from our house! I do not want any visitors. My stay will be incredibly short, so emails and text messages are appreciated! No phone calls please, as my voice may be hoarse for a little bit from the surgery.

Current prayer requests:

1. We continue to trust the outcome to God's capable hands, knowing that He has a plan for all of this!

2. That I will be able to enjoy this weekend with Nate & Sam without being too distracted by what is going to happen on Monday afternoon. It still hasn't hit me that I am having surgery in three days!

3. Wisdom in post-operative decisions. Since I am having a total thyroidectomy, I have to take radioactive iodine, and our concern with that is me having to be "isolated" for a week. While adults of non-childbearing age can be around me, no closer than arms reach, for less than an hour at a time, I will not be allowed within close proximity of Sam for a week, which means he and Nate will probably be staying at a friend's, or I may stay with family. The longest I've ever been away from Nate at once was 5 days (since the day we met!). Also, prayer for the after effects from the radioactive iodine, and when/if we have another child.

4. Lastly, that Monday night I will not be anxious about not being home to care for my husband and child. I always thought my first night away from Sam would be for Nate and my anniversary in April!

Thank you for all your love and encouragement! We are so blessed to have you in our lives.

Love,
Beth