Surgeon & Oncologist Update

We were able to see both the surgeon and the oncologist today with one visit. They removed the drain tube so Steve can finally get some sleep. We will have to go back to the surgeon in 6 months. Dr. Koon, the oncologist, is having a conference on UH Melanoma patients at 5 to discuss Steve's case and review the pathology report. Looks like he will have 2-3 weeks of intensive daily radiation and then start the interferion in mid January. The radiation is because the cancer had masses and there is a possibility that the cancer was outside on the lymphnodes. He has to review the report yet today. The good news is that the surgeon got everything up to one good lymphnode past the cancer and feels good about the surgery. Also too, we will be able to do most of the treatments at Southwest General/Ireland Cancer Center so we will not be driving downtown or to the east side. We will be talking to Dr. Koon by wednesday to find out if Steve has to do the 2-3 weeks of radiantion everyday and where. He has to do exercise theropy now that the tubes are out. Hopefully soon Steve T. will not have to come over to put Steve's surgical sock on in the morning. The best news was Steve can finally take a shower and not have me give him a bath and wash his hair. He plans to waste some serious water. More news hopefully on Wednesday.