PLEASE visit the "GO FUND ME" link here, that has been set up for Sandra and her daughters. Thank You !
http://www.gofundme.com/29ax6xak (
http://www.gofundme.com/29ax6xak)
Hello friends and family -
Sandra sought medical attention this year when she began experiencing frequent abdominal discomfort that affected her appetite and her usual feeling of wellness. Her CT Scan and MRI confirmed she had an 11cm ovarian tumor. More tests were ordered (Mammogram, Colonoscopy, CA125 and CA19-9) because her doctors were unable to determine if the tumor was benign or malignant.
Most of her test results showed no cause for concern, but, her CA 19-9 blood test number was 675 (normal range is 0-37). Based on this elevated number and the size of her tumor, Sandra's Gynecologist referred her to a Gynecologic Oncologist (Dr. Eskander from UCI Medical Center). An immediate surgery, to remove the tumor and perform a complete hysterectomy, was scheduled for April 20th.
During surgery, Dr. Eskander, found that the original 11cm tumor was malignant and that it spread from the pelvic area into her abdominal cavity. Many tumors were found on her peritoneum (the membrane lining the cavity of the abdomen and covering the abdominal organs). Dr. Eskander removed as much cancer as was possible. Unfortunately, some of the tumors and nodules were inoperable and unable to be removed.
The tumors that were removed were sent to pathology for analysis. At this time, it has been confirmed that Sandra has the rarest form of ovarian cancer: Clear Cell Ovarian Carcinoma. She is stage 3C/4
There is no cure for this cancer. However, there is a chance that it can be put into remission with chemotherapy. Some cases have proven resistant to chemotherapy, but, we won’t know how her cancer responds until she begins treatment.
As you can imagine, this is a tremendously difficult time for Sandra and her family. But, we are grateful and reassured that Sandra is being treated by Dr. Eskander and his incredible Oncology team and feel confident knowing she's receiving the best care possible. We remain hopeful that she responds well to chemo and we pray for a full remission.
Your love and support have made it possible for Sandra to focus on beginning her journey towards recovery. Please know that she would love to answer all of her texts, emails and phone calls personally… But, right now, she is using all of her strength to fight this terrible disease.
Please continue to regularly check this Caring Bridge page. We will post all of Sandra’s medical updates, new pictures, her thoughts and messages to her friends and family. Sandra will also be reading everything you send her – so write a lot! Write notes in the “Journal” and post pics that will make her smile in the “Photos” section. Let’s flood her with prayers, funny stories, good and bad pics of daily life or silly things. Let’s keep her spirits up. Everything counts, so even a few words of encouragement will go a long way to brightening her day. Again, we are so grateful for your love, prayers and support. Sandra could not get through this without you.
If you would like to provide a meal, please see the "planner" section of the site to sign up. Stay tuned for more information about what kind of meals she's able to eat, the best place and time to deliver, and other meaningful ways you can help!
The Tamonte and Woodard families would like to thank you for your outpouring of love, prayer, concern and kind words of support. God Bless you all!
