up to speed...

In case you have not been in contact with Pat or her immediate family in the past few weeks, here is a general overview of her current health situation:

• At the end of November '12 - Through a series of tests, doctors found fluid around my mom's lungs, as well as spots on the liver indicating advanced cancer (primary source unknown, but initially thought to be bowel).
• My mom was immediately admitted to the hospital and, with the exception of a few day passes and Christmas Eve, has been there since.  
• The fluid around the lungs was drained (almost 2 litres!), and my mom was able to breathe much better.  With the help of a respiratory therapist, my mom worked at improving her breathing capacity over the first 2-3 weeks in hospital.  This is not an issue at this time.
• A few tests caused stress on the digestive system and as a result, have caused much discomfort for my mom. Doctors are working at getting swelling down in the abdomen and have struggled with finding a diet that my mom's system can handle.  Currently, she is receiving nourishment through IV only (TPN), so that she can build up strength.  The goal is to have her eating real food in the next few days. Once this happens, she will be discharged to the comfort of her own home. ;)
• It has been extremely difficult for doctors/specialists to determine a primary source of the cancer.  After many tests, and in consultation with three oncologists in Calgary (Tom Baker Cancer Clinic), the doctor here determined that mom has advanced ovarian cancer.  This is  a 'best guess' scenario (not 100% certain, but most signs point to ovarian).
• Friday, Dec. 21 - Chemotherapy started at the Cancer Clinic here in Medicine Hat. This plan is for her to receive treatment every three weeks for 4 cycles. The situation will then be reviewed and a plan for further treatment will be determined.
• Through all of this, you should know that Pat has been a trooper.  It has in no way been easy on her, but she is ready to fight this stupid disease with all that she's got.  What helps is positive notes, calls, texts and even that elusive 'energy' we hear about being sent her way. (Positive) Power to the Pat!