Phyll Turco Phyll and Hal

In early October, I went in to see my doctor after having minor discomfort in my abdomen as well as shooting pain in my right ribs while working at a yard sale. When I went in to see my doctor, he said it could be my gall bladder so we did a series of tests. The results show that my gall bladder is fine but my liver has little polka dots on it. They did a liver biopsy and told me I have Stage 4 Cancer, which is what they call it when it has spread from one point to another, i.e. from some other place in my body to my liver. Further tests –  CT Scan, Colonoscopy and Mammogram – thankfully, showed that my lungs, breasts and colon are clear but that there is a spot on the tip of my pancreas. This week, I am meeting with my doctor to discuss treatments, which could include chemo, radiation or some other cocktail combination. Once I meet with the doctor, I will know more about which treatments are most appropriate since protocols differ depending on location. Depending on what he says, I may be referred to a pancreatic specialist.

Please know I am being well taken care of. I have doctors who are going to offer solutions, am not in pain and remain positive. It has always been my nature to lean towards the positive. I, of course, have the support of Hal, my sons, grandchildren and great grandchildren who, as always, help me to enjoy life with their humor and reminders of our great family adventures. My sister Liz was, also, just here and thankfully painted over the old (horrible) blue bathroom as well as the master bed and bath rooms. This all perked me up a great deal!

I would love for all of you to stay informed as things unfold. My family and I agree that the best way to do this is via CaringBridge – a website where you will receive updates. I love any and all messages of love and support. Communicating in this way will be very helpful in order to not have to repeat the story of how I got here, as well as to keep all of you – my friends and family – informed about my progress. In the near future, we will add ways that you can help support us with meals, errands, etc as I work on my treatment.