This is Andy, Julia’s husband, following explicit orders to post an update to the army of people thinking and praying for my wife.
Long story, short, Julia’s surgery went well. Julia went in for surgery at 8 am in good spirits. The surgeon affirmed before the surgery that the chemo had done almost nothing to shrink the cancer. At about Noon we received news from the surgeon that there was even more disease than they had thought and that they would have to be even more aggressive than they had planned. The surgeon asked myself and Julia’s family if he had the go-ahead to attempt to remove all of the cancer despite substantial risk. Based on Julia’s previous wishes and the surgeon’s information, we gave the go-ahead.
Then came the long, torturous wait. Finally, at about 7:30, Julia’s surgeon came and reported success in removing all of the visible cancer in her abdomen. A further operation is likely to remove additional cancer in her chest within the next couple months. Additional treatment, potentially more chemo or radiation, will be required in the coming months. Please pray that Julia’s recovery will go well in the coming days. We expect Julia will remain in hospital for at least 7 days. When Julia is ready for visitors we will let you know.
Thank you does not express how incredibly grateful we are for all of your prayers and support. I know that your prayers were efficacious in making today a success. If it’s not too much to ask, please continue in prayer as we have a long road ahead.
-Andy