More info on the current detour.

The report from Johns Hopkins wasn't encouraging. In addition to high grade dysplasia some of my cells are actually cancerous. Luckily, the cells affected are still localized and have not spread. I had a CT Scan on Friday that showed that I am 50 percent clean. Tomorrow I will be undergoing an MRI exam that will show another 49 percent. The surgery itself will show the rest.

I met with the surgeon today who gave me some details about the surgery. It will take place October 6th lasting, depending on a number of circumstances, at least a couple of hours. As I am relatively young, recovery time should be short. 5-7 days in the hospital, followed by a few weeks at home.

While the word cancer is certainly scary; I can admit to shuddering a bit at this news. The odds are in my favor. This cancer is probably localized and can be removed surgically. The surgeon said after the procedure I won't have to worry about the dysplasia or cancer returning. And, on top of that I will be free from the cramping/bloating/pain that I have had for the past year or so.

Thanks to everyone's kind words and encouragement. I have been blessed with great friends, family and medical staff. In addition to my excellent doctors hey_jupiter has been a virtual encyclopedia of good information. Including the technical medical fact that once I become a cancer survivor I am guaranteed to score lots of tail.