I heard from my new friend Sheila (the nurse practitioner) at Mayo today and they have already received the recheck of my blood from the genetics company for the CDH1 gene mutation. They have confirmed the fact that I do indeed have this mutation and am on the right path for my preventative plan. I wasn’t really sure what I was going to do if it came back negative anyway. At least I don’t have to do the “well, what now?” deal. I wasn’t really looking forward to a best 2 out of 3 scenario.
It’s funny how people view words in different ways. When we were talking with Sheila regarding retesting the gene mutation she made the comment that she really didn’t like that word. “You are not a mutant.” Those were her exact words. I actually don’t mind being a mutant. I could be one of the X-Men. Maybe my mutant super powers will become known after all this crap. I knew that I was always a little weird but, hey, aren’t we all? I mean really, we all have that weirdness in there somewhere. Mutant Mel has a nice ring to it or maybe I can come up with some cool name like “Storm” or “Cyclops”.
Anyway, the plan is the plan. A few more doctor appointments next week and one in January, then I am headed in for the big day on January 28th. I will have anywhere between 5 and 10 days in the hospital then home for recovery.
A few notes on recovery that I have learned. The day after surgery they will run a test to see if I am having any leakage where they have the connection from my esophagus to my intestine. There is a 15% chance of having this complication with this surgery. If there is leakage they (the surgeon) will determine if they need to go back in to do repair. If there is no leakage then they will actually have me eating by mouth that day. I will have a feeding tube for about a month to ensure that I am getting the needed nutrition as I learn to eat with my new situation. They expect me to lose about 10-15% of my body weight in the first month. My recovery at home will be lots of rest and learning my new diet. This time I have a list of shows that I am going to watch on Netflix or HBO Go. No more Law & Order reruns. Yay!
Thank you all again for all the prayers and well wishes. I appreciate them all!!!
Caring Bridge Comments
Judy Munoz|Dec 15, 2014 2:55pm
Hi Melanie,
I have you on the prayer chain. Thinking of you.
Jim Langemo|Dec 9, 2014 8:12am
Joan Gilmore|Dec 9, 2014 7:49am
Julie Halloff|Dec 9, 2014 7:29am
I wanted to let you know that you continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. You’re a very strong, amazing woman and one to be admired. As I had told you very early on in your journey (based on my experience from when my husband had gone through cancer treatment) keeping a positive outlook and a strong mind are so important in your journey to recovery and wellness. I am sure you already know this from what you have endured. You are resilient and I know you will continue to be a victor in this very difficult situation. The medical community has amazing technology that will help you get on the road to recovery quickly.
I strongly believe that there is power in prayer. Please let me know if it is ok to put your name in our Book of Prayers at my church. We have a prayer group where people from our church will pray for you, your health and strength, and your family, etc. See you tomorrow.
Cody Updates by Mom 
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