As of 2:00 this afternoon, Dad's surgery was complete!
Mom and I were taken to a room, where the surgeon met us and gave us an update on the procedure and on Dad's condition. For me, it was the hardest waiting time of the day, although I do not think it was for Mom. Dr. Traverso came in and mentioned that it was a picture perfect surgery, and that Dad was a perfect patient. He mentioned that things went so well, he wouldn't mind doing it again. Of course we exclaimed that is NOT how we felt. We were so relieved that it had gone so smoothly, and were so thankful for all the prayers that were offered in Dads behalf. How blessed we feel by the support that surrounds us! Thank You....Thank You....Thank You!!!
The surgery lasted only about 5 hours, and Dr. Traverso felt like things looked contained and that the cancer was localized, although we have to wait until Wednesday this week to have the final diagnosis in staging the Cancer. He mentioned that the tumor was only about as large as his pinky fingernail even though it was small, it was located in "Grand Central Station. " We hope and pray that it was contained.
After about another hour or so, we were able to go up and see him in the ICU. He looked great. His coloring was good and his face was not swollen. Mom felt like he looked so much better than he did after the last few procedures, especially the one where the external port was placed!
He was drowsy with heavy eyes but was able to listen to us, and know that everything looked good and that he was doing well. He is on oxygen, has an abdominal drain and a JP drain. His thoracic epidural will give him pain relief for about 3 days. He unfortunately did not have any crazy dreams to report of, but did mention that his epidural was refreshing! We laughed and were happy to know that he was not in a lot of pain. We hope it continues to be that way!
Thank you again for your kind thoughts, well wishes and prayers. I discussed with Jill the happenings of the day and how blessed our family feels. Our day of course involved some anxious moments, but for the majority of the time was calm and peaceful. We know that we were lifted up and comforted by our Heavenly Father. He hears our prayers and is aware of our concerns and heart ache, as well as our happiness. I know that our family is being watched over and protected. We are so appreciative of all of your love and support! Have an enjoyable night.....Love to you all!
Gary, you are looking GREAT!!! So glad you are this far on your journey.
ReplyDeleteYou have been in our thoughts and prayers. So grateful for the blog...thanks for keeping all of us out here up to date. So grateful that your family is there and feeling the peace and support of our Savior. Such great news...Love, Sondra and Kent
Great news. Sending prayers and love your way!
ReplyDeleteLove, Paige Walker Telford
Great to hear that everything went so well. The 18th Ward has certainly had ya'll in our prayers, as well as all the Bishoprics at the Stake Bishopric Training last week. We love you guys. Dave and Tamie Bastow
ReplyDeleteIt's great to get the updates! Happy to see his smile and thumbs up! We are rooting for you guys!
ReplyDelete-M'Lisa Walker Denning
Thanks for the updates. Glad Gary is doing well. Hugs to Ardith. Hang in there mom!!! Thinking of you all
ReplyDeleteKelli
Pres. Walker and neighbor and Ardith- love this blog and thrilled to hear of the good news. You have wonderful kids and grateful to the dedication of this blog. We've been out of town and glad to hear good news via this blog. Continue to get stronger and know you're in our thoughts and prayers. Love kevin and Anne Guthrie via Megan. P.s. Jill- my dad says the swearing is excused considering your heritage came from mud lake!
ReplyDeleteThanks be to God for his greater hand in our lives! I can certainly see how you have all been strengthened and have not lost the Walker sense of humor we all love so much. We're even more greatly blessed to know the surgery went as well as it did. There wasn't a prayer said all day Monday in our family that didnt mention the great Gary Walker and his amazing family. Prayers are still coming for an easy recovery. We hope to hear more good news ahead. Thank you for the updates! We're grateful for blogging!
ReplyDeleteI'm just seeing this news today. Walker family...my goodness! I am so sorry to hear that cancer has weaseled it's way into your lives again! Not cool! I'm so grateful that you all document and share your experiences. I can always count on a good laugh as you deal with it humorously as well as a good cry as you share how trials can build testimonies! Love you all and my prayers are with you!
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