Note from Pam

I learned a few things today.

1. I have learned there are tests that can be run during the biopsy called Estrogen Receptor and Progestin Receptor that can give an indication of the prognosis.  Not sure if they did those tests for mom's biopsy.
2. During surgery, they can remove 1 or 2 front lymph nodes at the same time as the lumpectomy/mascectomy to test for carcinogens.  They can detect which lymph nodes to removed based on the results of a nuclear dye test performed the morning of the surgery.  In one case that I know of, they removed a front lymph node and performed the biopsy during surgery.  That way, the doctor knew during the process whether they would need to remove more.  I also know of another case where they removed a couple of the front lymph nodes during the lumpectomy and perfromed the biopsy after the fact.  If tested positive, an additional surgery would need to be performed.
3. Mom's surgery will very likely be a one night stay.  From what I understand, she will not be able to do heavy lifting for a while afterwards, but will be able to get around otherwise fairly normally.

As I learn more, I will pass it along.  My main concern is to get the surgery scheduled as quickly as possible.  I will look more closely at the Mayo and ACS sites as well.

I have all my friends praying for mom.  I also have her on the prayer tree at Queen of All Saints.  Please pass along the news to your friends so that they all can keep her in their prayers.

Pam