Our Friday trip to Emory to set up my upcoming radiation therapy has been postponed. We got a call from Dr. Pippas this afternoon and found out that I have to endure another biopsy of the suspicious spot in my spine. There apparently was not enough tissue to be able to get a conclusive pathology report and this is creating an unfortunate delay in our ability to move this thing on to the next step.
Since my last posts I have been able to do some research about the stereotactic radiosurgery process. The folks at Emory are experiencing excellent control rates for spinal metastases and I don’t think there are issues with side effects for this type of treatment.
I do have one major problem with these treatments. If you’re a regular reader of this blog, you know that I have significant claustrophobia issues. I have figured out that during the radiation treatments you’re shrink wrapped to the table like a road-killed possum on Alabama blacktop. They better have some good drugs for me or I’m likely to break a bone trying to get loose.
I want to thank Stephen Muse at The Pastoral Institute for answering my need to talk today. He is up to his neck in people who really do need his counseling, and he still made some time for me today. After my appointed 45 minutes, during which we really didn’t accomplish much, he gave me a bear hug that honestly was just what the doctor ordered. This good man has been a pivotal component to the successes we’ve had as a family. He’s gotten us through some rough patches and this is just another patch we’ve got to get past. He is one of my heroes and I will never forget the good things he’s helped our family accomplish.
On behalf of my family, thank you all for your concerns for my welfare. Some of my friends think I’m crazy for opening my life on this blog. In fact, I think most of my friends have, at one time or another, thought I was nuts. The rest of you have decided to remain quiet and appear to be crazy. I have chosen instead to open my mouth and remove all doubt.
Keith Murray says
Not enough tissue to get a conclusive path report? Wouldn’t the person gathering the first biopsy have known that and taken more the first time? Yes, yes, simple human error, I suppose. But could it also be that when the sample went to analysis it wasn’t a cut-and-dried case of RCC and they want to get more before telling the Venables (and the various doctors) that it is or isn’t? Anyway, sorry that you have to endure the delay and am thinking of you. . . .
Susan Morgan says
Good Luck and God Bless. We understand your frustration.
Spencer Champion says
Regarding the blog, it fits you and your character. Upbeat and factual. Something I would think would be hard to do. Keep it up.
admin says
Spence, right now I feel “beatup” and fractional, instead of upbeat and factual. But, thanks for the compliment. By the way, next time we go to Atlanta, I’m going to take you up on a drive-by blueberry run. Please tell Donna I said hello.
Angela White says
Thinking and praying for you Mike. Keep up the good spirits.
Melanie says
Oh boy….I am so sorry. Hang in there tiger. Keep on blogging!
mary dunn says
Mike, I’ll just keep praying that everything is going to work as GOD intended,please tell Jill I’m not a therapist but I am a good listner, sometimes that’s all we want, am home daily except for Drs appointments.tell her to call if she wants to. 334-298-3326, praying for you daily.love ya Mike, Mary
Rusty Scoven says
By all means RAGE, honest and in your face is Mike Venable. One of the traits I admire most about you! Scream to mountains, fight the fight, grab the bull by the horns. By all means be MIke Venable!
Callie says
I’m glad you’ll get this biopsy behind you tomorrow so you can once again make the forward progress that I know you crave. Many people have said this to you, but I’ll say it again: Mike, I so admire your positivity and your dogged determination to get and stay healthy.
You’re not crazy … wait … yes, you’re a total loon in many ways … who isn’t? … but not for sharing your journey via your blog. You are not crazy, but brave to take your readers step by step through your fight. The people who love you appreciate it because we are able to follow in detail, saving you innumerable repetitions, and because you remind us to be thankful for and mindful of our health.
Others, who may not even know you, appreciate your blog because it shines like a beacon of light in the darkness. Many folks who suffer from the big C or some other illness may not be surrounded by supportive family, friends and acquaintances. They may feel alone and helpless. Those who read your blog can gain strength and hope from your words. They can follow your example and become educated, empowered patients. And they can emulate your positive spirit and ceaseless drive to hasten their recovery.
Blog on, Mike, blog on!!
Love,
Callie
Cyndy says
I will consume each installment of “Misadventures of Mike” with voracity. And will give you a virtual hug at the end of each one. Keep smiling my friend!