So yesterday I had surgery to remove the tumor. Good news is that although the surgeon anticipated removing some of the lamina (the protruding part of the vertebrae) it turned out to not be necessary. Plus it was an outpatient procedure, so I was home in my own bed the same day.
I tried to be a tough guy and opted to try Tylenol 3 instead of an opiate based painkiller because I didn’t like OxyContin the one time I used it (following TMJ surgery). Not the best idea. They’re bumping me up to Percocet or something like it (less than Oxy but stronger than the Tylenol). I’m just having more discomfort than I expected. Hopefully I won’t need it for more than a few days.
Long story short: while I am not giving Fred Astaire any competition anytime soon, things are coming along fabulously. I think I have beaten it again.
I am not laying odds on this being my last MPNST, but even if it happens again I know I will beat it every time.
The love and support from friends and family is deeply appreciated beyond any words.