Update on Mom's recovery

My mom, Patty, is getting better from the two surgeries to remove her colo-rectal cancer tumor, but it is still a slow process. She did receive excellent news two weeks ago (I should have posted it sooner). After having the ileostomy bag reversed, she was told she would have blood drawn every three months for a year to make sure she was still cancer-free. Her tests came back wonderfully! The nurse said her tumor level was a number 2. For reference sake, 0-5 is considered normal (scary as it sounds we all have free radicals floating around in our bodies; if triggered just the right way, these particles mutate into cancer cells). To compare, her bloodwork taken last December (before the tumor was removed from her rectum) showed her tumor level was 52! We are praising the Lord that even though the treatments and surgeries were very traumatic, Mom is now cancer-free.

On the downside, she is still fighting to regain control of her bowels. She has severe burning and irritation from using the bathroom more often than normal. I am proud of her as she is trying her hardest to reclaim her life. Monday, she went to Lowe's by herself and unfortunately had to rush to the bathroom and remained there for 20 minutes. She was so discouraged and said she would never go out alone again. Mom's stubborn-nature worked for the good and Tuesday, she ventured out to Walgreen's. Thankfully, it was a normal bathroom-free errand run.

I just covet your prayers that her body would continually (and rapidly if it be God's will) heal and allow her confidence to grow as she returns to having normal bowel movements. Also pray that her test results will come back just as clear as this last one did. Thanks.