Not according to plan

Life has thrown us a curve ball. We had done quite a bit of kidding about the lump under Regan's arm, never thinking to take it seriously. Considered giving it a name, looked for 10 fingers and toes, wondered if it was his long lost twin or cat scratch fever...so much for comedy. Monday afternoon we went to Regan's appointment to get the drainage tube removed, as well as, get the test results back from the Mayo Clinic pathology lab. The tube removal went well and the puncture wound is healing nicely. The incision also looks good with Regan having very minimal pain. The only bother at this point is that there were some nerves that needed to be severed and he has some numbness in the underarm and back. It is unclear as to whether or not he will regain the feeling in those spots, Dr Green said he would know in 12-18 months. We were also informed that the test results for the large mass indicated that is was a Melanoma. Confused?? So are we...

At this point all that we know is that at some point Regan had a Melanoma on the skin surface and that it was able to spread to the lymphatic system. We are not aware of any melanoma ever being removed or currently residing on his pretty skin. The Docs have done a CT scan & MRI, some preliminary blood work, and poking & prodding trying to locate the problem however that is based at a quick once over of the skin and some feeling for lumps. There were 2 smaller masses (sentinel nodes) removed alongside the large mass and those were benign. All 3 masses were lymph nodes. Melanoma is the fastest growing cancer so it is no wonder that Regan was taken by surprise when he spotted it.

Now that the test results are in we are all taking things much more serious. Regan is scheduled to meet with a dermatologist (4/20 @ 1015) to check ALL of his skin in order to locate any problem areas. Additionally, he will get a PET scan (3D! - 4/16 @ 1100)) to use alongside the MRI & CT scans he already had done. Those things should cover screening, inside and out, to determine if there are more cancers to deal with. We also have an oncologist that is squeezing him in his busy schedule (4/20 @ 1400). We have heard good reviews about the entire team and feel confident that they will get Regan back on track to being completely healthy. Very fortunate that the Chief of Surgery took an active interest in Regan's case. Until they get all this information there is no treatment prescribed. For now we are just in a holding pattern, making ourselves available for whatever appointment comes up.

We are getting more information everyday and really appreciate all the kind words and support. Thanks for thoughts, prayers and positive thinking...it really will make all the difference. We are terrified. Regan is concerned about his career, especially plans to Osan & Aviano. I am obsessed with his health. Anyone that knows me will understand when I say "this is not a part of the plan!!". I didn't make any allowance for this kind of scary in our lives. Wishing, hoping, praying for the best. I think of Regan as invincible and he is my superman. I know he will tackle anything put in front of him. Thank you in advance for any support you give him.

We will pass on information as we get it. Ron and Thanne, RN, arrive this weekend to help make sure we have enough ears so as to not miss anything.

Please let this serve as a wake up call to you all. Regan is in great health; young, active, exercises regularly, eats pretty well, great attitude and healthy social life yet he is the one who is going through this mess. Make sure to look after yourselves and take advantage of the health care you have.

XOXOX