MICHAEL'S JOURNEY

The big news today was the removal of the catheter. I wasn’t 100% sure it was going to be removed today but was elated that my Dr said it would be. Little did I really know how painful that procedure was going to be, however, quick it was. Short story it was quick and its out.:)

No pathology yet which I learned is slightly normal. Take your time, get it right. Based on the CT scan done several weeks ago and the previous exploratory procedure done, there were no surprises. He remains pretty steadfast on bladder removal and directing the urine flow to an opening on the side of my gut in which a urine pouch would be attached. It would be removable but I would have to deal with it for the rest of my life. No matter the pathology. mmmmm

Of course, that is the absolutely worst-case scenario and a route that I may have to take, but not after exhausting every conceivable option, wonder drug, super diet alternatives I can find. He wanted start me off with a couple small doses of chemotherapy to “loosen” up the cancer and make it easier to remove. I don’t think so. More than a few trusted folks, including my alternative doctor, have let me know that chemo is really not a good choice. 

There is the issue of the parasite attacking the ureter on my right side obstructing the kidney flow to the bladder. Blood work was done today to see if the labs continue to reflect any blocking. Another surgery to possibly attach a tube that would stick out behind my back so the kidney does not get backed up. It would be temporary pending the bladder removal at which time they would create two stints on the left and right ureters that would attach to the above-mentioned tube going to the outside of my bladder where the pouch would attach to.

For now, though, I have time to really look at alternatives and lead a pretty normal life. No pain or blood in the urine, no having to pee every hour and especially no paid just trying to rollover in the middle of the night while sleeping.

We spoke about the Deon Sanders surgery and he thought that was an option but that need would be discussed with my next surgeon who specializes in bladder surgery and was aware of PLD1 or Nivolumab (Opdivo) which has shown great tumor killing results and was referenced by a Jerry Jones statement which actually just came out today. Susan came with me today and has been an absolute rock and actually was the one to bring up Primes journey. The psychological support from her is immeasurable as well as all of yours. 

Next – Tomorrow morning I will return to my alternative Dr and grab a couple take home tests and let him know what happened today and then Tuesday AM meet up with my next surgeon to discuss the fun times he might be able to share about bladder removal.

More than likely returning to work on Monday and was given the ok to travel and possibly work out a bit.

Thanks for the compliments and do not hesitate to ask any questions, share web sites or links. Reading them all daily!

Till next time, cheers! and have a great weekend. -Mike