First, I have to apologize to you for the long lag time in updates. One of my initial complaints when I first learned that I had lung cancer was that I kept having procedures, but never seemed to get any fresh information on my condition. Now, I see that I have not updated you all since December 22. Sorry. You can refresh yourself here: What you can learn from my lung cancer on my last post December 22.
The last thing I mentioned in that post was that my cancer team had noticed that the tumor was possibly spreading to a neighboring lymph node. So, they needed to do a further procedure – a bronchosopy – on me to confirm or deny that. If you want further details on ‘that procedure, ‘bronchoscopy” I suggest you Google it.
I then had to wait four more days to learn the results and if I qualified for lung cancer surgery.
I have now learned that there was no cancer spread in my lung and I do qualify for surgery.

On Wednesday, January 11, I will have surgery on my lung. The procedure is called VATS – Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery.
According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, “VATS lobectomy for lung cancer is associated with less pain, fewer in-hospital complications and a shorter hospital stay…. Superior functional recovery continues in the post operative period with improved physical function, lower re-admission rates and no difference in disease-free and overall survival up to one-year.”
So, hopefully, I will not have a prolonged hospital stay. My surgeon said that barring complications, I may be able to go home the day of the surgery. Fingers crossed.
Now you know everything I know.
Tony
I am so relieved there is no spread! How was your initial cancer found? On a routine x-ray for something else?
I’m thinking of you and praying so hard everything goes well. I appreciate your keeping us posted. Such a relief there is no spread outside the lung!
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Thanks, Red. It was just a regular chest X Ray.
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So good that it was found early. Why did they order a regular x-ray?
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My doctor said because of my age, I ought to get a chest X-Ray.
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I’m sure glad your doctor thought of that!
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Good luck Tony. I went through surgery myself 2 months ago to fix a big hiatus hernia and perform a partial fundoplication. It wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be and I was home the next day.
Take care of yourself, eat well and get loads of rest which will speed up your recovery.
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Thanks for your kind words and thoughts, Danny.
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Sending love and support. HUGS!
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Thanks, Maryanne. I appreciate it.
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Tony, I’m continuing to push the very best thoughts and prayers in the universe your way! Good luck and stay strong on January 11!
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Thanks, Myra. I really appreciate it.
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I am So Glad to hear the News! May God Continue to Bless You! I’m still Praying for you.
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Thanks, Sandra. Much appreciated.
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Prayed it wasn’t spreading and praying for a successful procedure and recovery! 🙏🏼 You’ll be back on your bicycle by the lake before you know it!
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Prayed it didn’t spread and praying for a successful procedure and speedy recovery! 🙏🏼 You’ll be back on your bicycle by the lake before you know it! 🚴🏻♂️ 👍
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Thanks, Rock. I hope so!
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All the very best to you and looking forward to how it all went.
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Thanks, Louise.
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Dear Tony,
Thank you for the update and sharing your journey. Given your healthy lifestyle I’m sure the surgery will be successful and that you’ll be cancer free afterward. Wishing you a speedy recovery.
Rob Patzer
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Thanks, Rob. Here’s hoping.
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Thank you Tony for the update and I’ll be praying for you and a speedy recovery!
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Thanks, much appreciated.
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Thanks for your update and good news! Hope your procedure is as painless as possible and your recovery is quick and brings you back to your great health! And your bicycle!🚴
–Janine Perky
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Thanks, Janine.
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Tony, the very best of luck for your forthcoming surgery and I join the others in hoping for a positive recovery. Thinking of you!
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Thanks very much, Paul.
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I’m praying that the procedure goes well. Despite following your blog for some time, I had no idea you were living with lung cancer.
Check out the benefits of pine needle oil. It is recommended for reducing inflammation in the body. Even with a minimally obtrusive procedure, an extra precaution can be helpful.
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Thanks, Jasper.
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Sounds like you and the doctors have this under control, Tony.
Pulling for a speedy recovery. Stay strong!
Frank C.
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Hello, Frank! Thanks for your kind words. I hope all is well with you and yours.
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Oh Tony, I didn’t know. I pray your surgery goes well.
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Thanks, Susan. Mich appreciated.
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Thanks for the update, prayers for a healthy recovery.
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Many thanks!
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Thanks for the update, Tony. Hope your surgery goes well and that you recover quickly and completely.
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Thanks very much, Jenny.
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Tony I will be thinking about you Wednesday. Prayer too
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Thanks, Mike. Much appreciated! Hope all is well with you.
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Hello, Tony just to let you know I’m praying for you for your speedy, recovery. I’m lost now since I haven’t been on FB for so long forgot how to navigate it, but sending lots of blessing your way, take care and be safe. Lidia
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Thanks for your kind thoughts, Lidia. Much appreciated.
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