Good News Wednesday!!!

The cancer's confined to the side of my nose. This is actually really good news, even though it means I'll still need about three operations.

We went off to see the specialist today where I found out a few interesting facts, like; do you want to know how many pamphlets there are in the waiting room? Or how many chair legs there are? I can even tell you how long the nurses from the other wing have for their lunch break. I was busy working out how many floor tiles were in the room when I was rudely interrupted by Doctor G coming out to get us. He had to come out himself 'cause he was running so late that all the nurses had taken off.

He took us into his room to show us these "really interesting" photos of the inside of my head and chest. My wife seemed to be a little bit fascinated by it all, but it seemed a bit gross to me. Anyway, the upshot of all this was that the cancer is confined to my nose. So, one operation to cut out the rust and another two to do the panel beating, filling and spray painting. The first op is tentatively booked for the 2nd of July. I think this is going to depend on someone else getting bumped. Sorry someone. 

So, next? It seems Auckland City Hospital has a team of people that meet every Friday to assess "special" cases and advise the best course of treatment. As I've been booked to front up to the meeting this Friday this now confirms a fact I've been aware of for some time. I'm "special".

Apparently this team - of about 20 people of all different disciplines - go through the scans and medical history, then talk to you while doing a bit of prodding and poking. They then tell your specialist wether they agree with his proposed course of action, or if they think he's lost the plot. So it might be that they recommend that I have the ops in Auckland. If so, it might also mean that every thing will be done in one hit. I think they must use super glue and quick drying paint.

So, do I feel any differently now, after getting a lot more information? I've been trying to work this out, but the truth is, I don't really know. I don't think I do. Since this whole thing started I've been able to focus on the good stuff and I think this might be because I've always been aware of two indisputable facts. One is; I'm married to a wonderful, loving woman who is the strongest and most practical person I know; and the other is; there is one thing better than loving someone. That is; knowing, without any shadow of doubt, that you are loved by others. 

The level of support and encouragement shown to me by my family, friends, my family's friends and complete strangers has left me feeling both indestructible and humble. A simple expression of gratitude to you all is totally inadequate, but please believe that it is heartfelt and genuine. Knowing that you are all out there dealing with your own life issues while still offering me your support strengthens my will and keeps me focused on the positive... Thank you.

I'll let you know how I get on with the A-team.