OT- my mom

I was waiting until we got an official diagnosis via biopsy before posting what is going on. My mom has just been diagnosed with Pancoast tumor. It is a rare form of lung cancer that invades the chest wall.  For those of you that don't know, my mom had a stroke just two years ago. It took her awhile, but she was finally able to walk again. Moving to Tennessee was the best thing that happened for her recovery. My sister has been helping out, and encouraged her to get out of the wheel chair. Plus, she now has better health care physicians, nurses, therapists, etc.  Lately she has been getting very weak and falling. She also has had pain in her right shoulder for the past few months. The docs thought it was related to her past stroke since that side was effected. She had left side 100% occlusion of the internal carotid artery. So, she has no movement in her right arm.

After the last fall they noticed a yellowish spot on my mom's chest. They thought it was an old bruise and decided to do  a CT scan. That's when they noticed the cancerous lesion. Had they not noticed that spot, they never would have done the CT scan. That's a scary thought.  Anyway, she had her Pet/CT on Wednesday and meets with the oncologist next Tuesday. We will go from there on whether surgery is an option or not. However, I'm not sure if she is a good surgical candidate. She now has 65% blockage of her right carotid. Oy!!!  I am lucky to have a wonderful new boss. I informed her of this the other day. She told me that if I need to take leave she would make that happen for me. Now, how cool is that? I have only worked there for 3 months. Technically I can't take leave until I've been there for a year.  Well, I will update ya'll later when I know what will happen.  I appreciate any prayers you can send. I know that she can fight this. She is a strong woman.  Hugs,  Lori

As I've always been told... don't worry for her, she worries enough. Be her HOPE. The person diagnosed does enough worrying. They need to see those around them having lots of hope. Lots of prayers for you.

Thanks for your kind words and prayers.  Lori

Lori, you most CERTAINLY have my prayers.  And YES, it is an awesome and wonderful thing to have a boss who understands that LIFE HAPPENS, and jobs have to come second to family issues!  Thank God you made the move - can you imagine the stress you'd have had dealing with this under your old supervisor???  ugh... I think your mom is lucky to have a daughter who understands what's going on with her health.  Hugs to you, my sweetie pie friend 

Thanks Darla! I am glad I made the move. I can't even imagine how things would go at my old job.  Lori

Oh Dear!  You and your mom and family have my prayers!!!  Thank God you work where you do now and hve such a terrific boss who understands!!!  If you need an ear I'm here! Love, Hugs and Prayers!

Thanks Sandie! YOu are so sweet.

Lori!!! I am so sorry!  Many good thoughts and prayers to you all for strength, courage, peace and understanding during this difficult time..

Thanks Dana! I will continue to keep your mom in my prayers as well.  Lori

Thinking of you and your family.