Del Ostergaard

Medical Enigma ....
After about 10 weeks, multiple MRI's, CT scans, lumbar punctures, two biopsies, and too many visits to count, our dad/husband's situation continues to be described as "a very interesting case" with no clear diagnosis or treatment plan.   It's been a frustrating couple of months!

What we do know....
Del has a "mass" at the base of his skull (Just behind his nasal cavity.  Think of it as the floor of the skull, where the brain sits)  This mass is not in his brain, but has affected cranial nerves on the right side of his face, paralyzing a number of facial functions including  movement of his eye and his ability to swallow and talk.  Surgical removal of the mass is not possible.   We are currently waiting to hear whether he will be approved for an intracranial biopsy (which could lead to a chemotherapy plan), or whether they will start radiation to decrease the size of the mass and slow it's progression. 

The journey...
We want the best quality of life possible for Dad, and started working with a palliative care team to help us navigate speech therapy, physical therapy, enteral feedings, and all of the other things that will help get him back out on the golf course!   

What we need from you...
Please hold Del in your prayers.  The uncertainty that he has dealt with these past couple of months has been difficult physically, spiritually and emotionally, so your prayers are so important!   We have lots of appointments, so just ask for your patience if we don't answer calls and notes promptly.  We will try to keep this site updated at least once a week!  

Please know how blessed we feel by the support we have already received!  

Love, Jeanie, Eric, Kim &Tom, Adam & Jill,  Allie & Andrew and grandchildren