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They took an x-ray of my chest again this morning. A little later my lung guy’s partner came in and told me there was a leak in my lung. He said that was probably due to the fact than the fluid had collapsed the lung, and when it expanded back, it tore.
I said, “OK. What do we do?””
He said we could wait and it should heal itself. I asked how long that would take. He though a few days. I asked him what we can do to speed things up. He said we could go in and sew up the hole.
I asked him, “Where is the tear?” He said “It is most likely in the top.” “I responded, most likely means what probability?” *90%,” he said. I said, “That means it could be elsewhere. How do we find it?” He indicated they would do some digging of sort to find it. I didn’t really like the way this conversation was going. He didn’t seem particularly pleased himself and quickly disappeared.
Later in the day, the surgeon came in to chat. He told me I did not have a tear in the lung, but a bubble at the top of the of the rib cage. I said, “Then you’re telling me the lung guy doesn’t know what he is talking about.” The surgeon responded, “He not a surgeon.” I though to myself, “So, there’s some ego involved here.
The surgeon also told me He was uncertain the glue process would work because the tumor would likely to produce more fluid. I asked him if I should use radiation on it. He thought that was a good idea. My oncologist has been against it.
It’s probably not possible, but I would like to have a conference call with the surgeon, my lung guy and my oncologist to discuss the best course of action. That’s probably not possible, but we’ll see. I want each guy to make the case for his point of view and give me the data I need to decide my best alternatives.
Now I know how Bush must feel working with he generals over Iraq. Except, if the President calls a meeting, you show up. I don't have the kind of clout, but the insurance company assigned me sort of a project manager. I’m going to call her tomorrow and see what is possible.
Since I’m going to be here a while longer I’m going to contact the hospital’s IT department and see if I can get a connection that I can do some work with.
Posted by The Vorlon at November 23, 2006 7:51 PMTed, Good luck with getting the doctors together to discuss everything. I think that is the best plan. YOU are the President in this situation. Please keep everyone posted on everything. Nora and I are praying for you. Mom sends her love. Karol and Danny Boy will be happy to see you come home, even if Danny Boy has to give up part of the bed.
Posted by: Rreb Orrell at November 23, 2006 8:24 PMYou are getting a lot of information, but, it's just not coming together for you like it should. I agree with Rob that you must act as president in this case. This is your life they're talking about. And, egos just won't get it in this case. I surely hope the IT Dept. can find a way to set up a conference call for you. Ted, you have every right to fully understand your options. In this case, nothing is more important than getting all the options and feeling a concurrence between the doctors as to what is the very best choice you can make. State your wishes firmly so they understand your concern. This is a big deal, and no mistakes can be made. They will begin to recognize your commitment and involement in your health care. In my opinion you will be on a par with them They will recognize your great knowledge and your vested interest in your health care. I can't tell you how very proud I am of you for your fighting spirit. You are as strong as any Vorlon EVER. May God Be With You. We, as your friends, are teaming up to rally more support
strength, and prayers for you. Thank you so kindly for keeping us informed Ted. Praying that your conference call idea comes to pass. Your friend and supporter, Ruth