We prayed for wisdom...

We (Luke & I) just returned from the hospital. Before we left, the surgeon came out to discuss how Carolyn's procedure went. He was NOT able to remove the cancerous area in the colon. It's about 10cm up inside and because of the angles he was not comfortable with being able to fully reach the area. Because this is cancer we're dealing with he erred on the side of caution and did NOT want to cut into her, if he couldn't fully remove the cancerous portion. It would risk some cancer cells "spilling" out into her body and lodging elsewhere. He worked over an hour probing, trying different instruments, different angles to no avail.

So, when she gets out of recovery Gary is going to have to pass on the news that they weren't able to do anything and that further more invasive surgery is a high probability. We prayed before she went into the OR that the Lord would grant the Dr's. wisdom when he got in there. I feel like HE heard our prayers by giving the Dr. insight to stop when he did. She will not have to spend the night in the hospital tonight. Once she's feeling better from anesthesia they will discharge her. Further appt's. will be scheduled for later on in the week. As they want to be expedient about the cancer being removed.

Please continue to pray for Carolyn, as I'm sure this is going to be a HUGE disappointment when she awakens. Pray for Gary to deliver the words to Carolyn in a supporting, loving way with emphasis on the positives. As her Dr. put it so well..."we cannot risk cutting in and spreading the cancer". "If we go with the other surgical options there is a high probability that she will NOT have to undergo any radiation therapy post-op." May HIS will be done and may HE be glorified through this trial.

Thanks to our friends Pete and Marsha who came up to the hospital and stayed the entire time with Gary, Luke and I. I personally appreciate all your help with keeping Luke occupied. Where would we be without friends? Thank you for your continued prayers. Heather & Family

UPDATE: Thankfully the surgeon relayed the news to Carolyn about his inability to remove the cancer today with this procedure, before she even left the OR. So, Gary didn't have to be the bearer of not so good news. Thank you God for small (and LARGE) blessings.