February 19

We were released by both the surgeon and the oncologist by Tuesday.  

On Wednesday, we drove home with many stops including meeting (in person for the first time) with another "GISTer" couple whom we met online.  It was really special to meet with another person/couple who have walked a similar journey.  We had a warm time sharing our stories and encouragement.

It was a very rough trip for Phil to be in the vibrating car ride for so long.  We both were wiped out when we got home.  A flood of emotion overwhelmed Phil when we arrived.  We had been away for so long and endured so much.  Some of our friends left flowers, balloons, cards by our front door to welcome us home.  Our kids also were there to greet us.  What a way to return back to our home.

As we settle back to "normal life",  Phil's progress continues each day.  The pain management team is working on a plan to wean off the pain meds.  We will return to San Diego in a month to have another check-up, get vaccine shots for the lack of spleen, and start back on the targeted treatment to keep the stem cells of GIST from becoming active.  Although the tumor is out and no other visible cancer cells are found in his body, treatment is needed for the rest of his life.  Phil had severe reactions to this drug in the early stage of his treatment last year, so the oncologist will be monitoring his reactions closely when reintroducing this drug to his body.

Basically, the next steps are: recovering from the surgery, gaining weight and muscle, starting treatment, learning to work with the side effects, and having regular check-ups.  The near term adjustments are not easy, but the long term outlook is optimistic.   We are deeply grateful for this incredible outcome.

This will be our last CaringBridge report.  Thank you all for your encouragement, support, and prayers.  I apologize that we have not been able to individually thank each of you for the comments you left, but know that each one of your thoughts was the highlight for Phil to listen to, especially in the hospital.  We thank God for your love.  It's a huge gift in our life.