Yesterday’s biopsy turned out to be a no go.
The plan was to use ultrasound imaging to guide the needle but it turns there was not enough space available in the area of the mass to do the biopsy safely. After being in the ultrasound room for an hour, they moved Sarah across the hall and put her on a CT scanner table.
The doctor told us later that he would move the needle a little, check it on the imaging, move it a little more, check it on the imaging, and then just when he got ready to nab the biopsy sample, a bit of bowel would get in the way. He was (thankfully) operating with an abundance of caution and didn’t want to do anything that would create any more problems. They finally had no choice but to call it.
He told us when looking at the scan from a few days ago there was a much larger window to work in but things are constantly in flux down there; unfortunately they “fluxxed” in the wrong direction yesterday.
He did tell Gage and me that Sarah was such a trouper and so brave. And he said, “She was so polite, even when things got uncomfortable for her.”
The uncomfortable part happened because they had planned to do sedation but when they got in there, her blood pressure dropped. They gave her something to relax her in her IV but she still had to get some shots in her stomach. She got two bags of platelets yesterday in preparation for the procedure so that was definitely a good thing.
A couple of doctors stopped by after the postponed procedure yesterday to say they still in conference about what to do next and would try to present a plan tomorrow. This morning about 7 a.m. another group came in to tell us they were going to try a different way of doing the biopsy at some point today. The thing is, nothing can be planned or treated or figured out until they know what exactly is in that mass, so getting this biopsy is crucial, especially since it takes 2-3 days for results.
Sarah is still running a fever but had a little more energy yesterday and even ate a little bit of dinner after going without food or water until 3 p.m.
Today is starting out the same; nothing by mouth until the procedure is over.
Some of you have asked about Steve coming; unfortunately, he would not be allowed up to see Sarah. Gage and I feel very blessed that the two of us are able to be here but certainly would love to see Steve and also Gage’s parents.
Gage has continued to care for Sarah like a champion, attending to her every need. Yesterday afternoon I was in the room with the two of them and Gage reached over to kiss her. I meant to jokingly say, “Hey, no public displays of affection,” but I accidentally said, “Hey, no public displays of infection!”
Guess you can tell I’ve been in a hospital too long.
Yesterday I put the engagement pictures up on her door and the staff was so sweet to comment on them and be excited for her and Gage.
She even had Gage get her ring out of her purse and put it back on for a few minutes so everyone could admire it. It did my heart good to see her with a brief zing of her old energy.
Before I close, let me mention that Dr. Driscoll was featured in the Duke newsletter recently, along with a picture of a certain someone. Here’s the article.
Now you know why he’s such a good doctor!
Thanks for the continued comments and words of encouragement. Although I hate not being able to reply to each comment the way I normally do, please know that each comment is read (sometimes more than once) and appreciated more than you could ever know.
Hospital rooms can be lonely, frightening spaces and unless you’ve ever spent time in one, you’ll never know how much it means to get messages from friends from across the country and around the world–each message a smile, each prayer a hug.
We certainly don’t mind that you cannot respond to all of our comments. You know we all are praying for each of you and appreciate the updates when you can. Great article on Dr. Driscoll.
I am joining you and many others at the foot of the cross in prayer for Sarah’s complete healing. The Great Physician has a plan and my prayer is that it comes soon. I know Sarah will always point to Jesus and give Him the glory in all things. ❤️
Becky, I pray that God’s peace envelops you all like with a blanket of peace. I am praying for you all.
She is surrounded by a team of professional caring doctors who will not give up until they get an answer. She is surrounded by family and friends, both near and far. She is surrounded by the angels of heaven who are holding her up and giving her supernatural grace and peace. We are still with you in spirit and in heart. Love and prayers, Kay
So frustrating for all of you! I just have no words. Please just know that I’m thinking of all of your prayerfully through my day.
Thank you so much for keeping us updated. I don’t comment often but I am praying for Sarah and all of you, and will continue to do so!
I am so sorry things have been so difficult. Praying they can safely get a biopsy today so you know how to start getting Sarah to feeling better. So thankful for your team of cautious doctors. Thank you so much for taking the time to update. I find myself checking for updates several times a day, so appreciate you taking the time to do so. I know it has to be draining when you are physically and mentally exhausted. Continued prayers for all.
Oh, Becky. I know that had to be so disappointing for all of you. But I also know (as you do) that God is in control, and He must have a reason for the delay. Praying for His peace to surround y’all and that His healing touch will fall heavily on Sarah this day. “The Great Physician now is near,
The sympathizing Jesus;
He speaks the drooping heart to cheer,
Oh, hear the voice of Jesus!
Sweetest note in seraph song;
Sweetest name on mortal tongue;
Sweetest carol ever sung:
Jesus, blessed Jesus.”
May you sense His presence. Hugs and prayers from Idaho.
Jenny Jo,
How lovely to read the words of an old hymn in the midst of the craziness. Thank you for that.
Praying that the biopsy happens today! As always, I am amazed by Sarah’s strength and so happy she has you and Gage with her! Those pictures of him by her bedside made me tear up. That is love at its strongest. Sending tons of hugs and prayers your way.
So sorry to hear the biopsy didn’t get finished. Prayers it goes well today. Prayers for strength as you wait.
It makes me sad that things didn’t go as planned yesterday, but it just shows the care they are using for Sarah. The engagement photos look wonderful. I would love to send Sarah something from Amazon, my go to place for much of my shopping since COVID. So sorry Steve isn’t able to visit. Always in my thoughts and prayers.
Cindy,
Sarah is going to get a list together in the next couple of days.
Thank you so much for updates! I look for them. Hugs and prayers!
Becky,
Long time reader, infrequent commenter. Just wanted to let you know I’m thinking of your family and praying for you every day. Along with your donate button, have you considered an Amazon wish list for Sarah? Maybe books, etc, if she feels like any of that. I would love to send something from that list.
Thank you for your daily updates. It helps us know how to pray more specifically.
Jenna
I would also like to buy something from a list.
Katrina,
Sarah is going to be getting a list together.
Jenna,
Thanks for the great idea! Sarah is going to try to compile a list in the next day or two and I will post it here.
Oh poor Sarah, she is such a trooper. NPO and fever is certainly rough day after day. So glad she is on the pedi floor so she can have both of you with her. Hoping today is the magic day to get this done. Love the photos you chose to put up for all to see. She has a full life waiting for her. Hugs.
Praying that the biopsy goes perfectly today! Sarah is amazingly brave and strong and she has all kinds of admirers out here in cyberspace! God’s got this!
I find myself checking first thing each day for an update! Continuing to pray for Sarah, her doctors, Gage, your entire family!!
Prayers for a successful biopsy today, quick results and a solid treatment plan. Continued prayers, love and hugs for all of you 💕
Good morning, Becky and thanks for the update. Sorry to hear that the biopsy didn’t happen yet – high hopes for today! In the words of Isaiah 40:4:”Every valley shall be exalted And every mountain and hill brought low; The crooked places shall be made straight And the rough places smooth”. That is my prayer for you, Sarah, Gage and all her loved ones. Hugs from the North!!
Praying that biopsy happens today! Thinking of you all!
Oh Becky, I know all too well the feels of being in the hospital alone. So thankful Gage is there with you…and so are we…through our prayers and concerns. Praying specifically today, that the Lord guides the team in a supernatural way so they can perform the biopsy! Standing with you, continually with much love and prayer!
Ugh. So sorry for the “issues” with the attempted biopsy. I hope today’s procedure (whatever it is they decide to do) goes smoothly.
Glad to know Sarah ate some dinner. Being NPO for so long, so many days in a row is so uncomfortable. 🙁
Gage is a darling, dear person.
Oh dear! So sorry that things did not go as planned yesterday. Prayers that they will be able to do the biopsy today.
The pictures are great. I’m sure it does the nurses good to see them as well as you.
Do not worry about not replying to comments. You have much more important matters to tend to.
Yes, spending time in a hospital room is lonely and boring at times. I can attest to that after spending several days with my mom in December. She could have one visitor a day so I didn’t go a couple days as my dad and brother did. Once she was transferred to our small community hospital, she could only have one visitor period. The first one that went was the only one that could go for the 16 days she was there. Naturally that was my dad. I went to her window one day but her hearing is awful with hearing aids. After that day, December weather hit so not a good idea to open the window.
Poor brave, polite, sweet Sarah. I so hope she isn’t in pain today. What beautiful engagement photographs to show the world that Sarah is a person, with a rich,full life awaiting and a young man who loves her, and not just “a patient”. Holding your hand as you wait, dear Becky xxxx
Sarah and your family have been put on our prayer list at the Princeton Church of God, Princeton,NC. I anxiously wait for updates daily. Love and prayers to you all!! Judy Pate
Becky,
Do not worry about answering the comments. To me at least it is not the reply that is important but knowing that the comments from your readers can give you comfort.
I
The pictures look so nice. Praying for all of you that the procedure goes well today.
The pictures look great and seem to provide a piece of normal for Sarah and Gage. Getting to talk about the wedding rather than medical stuff is no doubt a great distraction and smile inducer. Sorry that the biopsy didn’t go. Praying that today will be successful!
Prayers are continuing…God is a way maker as y’all know so very well . And He’s the same God who walked with Sarah all those years ago at Duke … trusting Him to make a way for a biopsy. ( What a fabulous pic of Sarah and Dr. D in the article . God bless him as he helps the “ least of these in his mission work . ) Standing on God’s promises ❤️🙏
Ugh. I feel like your post could be titled “The Yo-Yo” since things are sometimes up and sometimes down. I’m praying that the biopsy can be performed today so answers can be obtained and a treatment plan can be planned.
In the meantime, how else can we love on you, Gage and Sarah from afar? I’m so glad the staff has the beautiful engagement photos as a peek into Sarah’s life beyond 5200.
My anthem for Sarah today is “Say I Won’t” by MercyMe.
“I can do all things
Through Christ who gives me strength
So keep on saying I Won’t
And I will keep on proving you wrong.”
Courtney,
Yes! the Yo-Yo No Go. I need YOU to be writing my titles. 🙂
And Sarah will keep proving them wrong.
Poor Sarah! How awful for her to have to go through all of that to no avail. Praying that the doctors figure it out today so that y’all can get the answers you need to get Sarah better! Thank you so much for the updates.
Don’t worry about not responding to all the comments. I am certain that everyone here wants caring for Sarah (and filling your own cup, as they say) to be your top priority.
I hope today’s procedure is successful. Poor Sarah and all that poking. She really did find an absolute gem in Gage though didn’t she?
Virtual hugs all around.
I’ve come to the Lake Junaluska Cross on a regular basis for awhile now. This last week I’ve focused on praying for Sarah and also a family member going through hospital stays. God is in all of these details! Thank you again for keeping us posted and allowing us to pray for whatever the specific need is. Love you all!!
The pictures look so good!! I hate that things did not go as planned yesterday, but will pray that today will be successful!! I am glad to hear Sarah has some energy back, even if for a short time each day… baby steps of improvement are all it takes, especially with her great attitude and mind set!! Praying for you, and cheering for you from across the street! 🙂 Keep me posted on anything else that I can do for you guys! Happy to drop off dinner one night from somewhere close if you would like it! I will be in touch, but you know how to reach me, whatever time of day it might be! Stay strong, God’s got this!! Many hugs and prayers coming your way!!!