Jim Day 7 Thursday

7:20 PM Jim's surgeon came in late this afternoon with good news. He says the Pathology Report from Jim's surgery shows that the cancer was contained in the bladder system and was successfully removed. Lymph nodes were also clear of any cancer. Ofocurse they will monitor him closely as is the practice with any cancer patient. If Jim had any doubts about this surgery - this was his answer. It was aboslutely the right move.

Thanks to everyone for your prayers and encouragement that has helped and steadied us through this difficult challenge. We are looking forward to moving on - praying Jim stays cancer free and in gratitude for your support.

8:20 am Good morning sunshine. Glorious day here in DC and our room if filled with sunlight.
The doctors came in at 6 am followed later by his private surgeon and all oronounced Jim on the right track - the path to home! They have removed the central line IV port in his neck which will free him a bit for walking and for turning his head. If he continues well with liquid diet he gets solid food for lunch. Solid foot held like bait before him for the race down the hall with his walker. He is sitting up in bed, eyes are brighter and he definitely looks more like himself. Complete that picture - he has his memo book in hand and is writing his own lists.

3:25 pm Busy day. Doctors in and out. Finally regular food tray showed up. Seems the trick is - doctor oks it in the chart but patient has to call down and select the food. delayed lunch two hours because we did not know that. Old bromide "communication is everything" applies. Those two hours were harder because he had been waiting since last Thursday to eat again. You bet he has already ordered his supper.

If all goes well with the eating we have marching orders for tomorrow noon. Going home! I am packed.

My Own Country is a wonderful book by Abraham Verghese, MD. I have been reading it out loud to Jim today - and we are loving it. I am reading it to him because it fun to share - since we know so much of his history in medicine and the locations first hand. If I give it to Jim I will have to wait to read it myself. Sharing is good. Dr. Verghese is quite a writer - vivid images, compelling storytelling. Its a story for anyone - especially if you are interested in medicine.