Closer to the Goal

Tracy received a call from the Radiologist on Saturday asking that he come in for an additional MRI Monday morning (Nov. 30) at 7 a.m. We were a bit nervous not knowing why.

The Radiologist told Tracy that Dr. Pingree (his neurosurgeon) wanted this done to get a closer view of the cranial nerves in order to map them out. The Radiologist said we should hear from Dr. Pingree later that day. Our nerves were going crazy in expectation of his call.

It was about 6 p.m. when we finally received that call. He informed us that he needed the additional MRI to see whether he was going to have to cut just 1 trap door in Tracy’s skull or if he would have to cut an additional one in order to maneuver more easily through the nerves. He had not looked at the MRI film at that time but was going to review it with the Radiologist.

He also stated he was not able to reach his colleague at the “U” to review the MRI with him as he is head of Neurology there and travels a lot giving lectures. He is still hoping to get in contact with him for a second look and second opinion.

As it stands, he wants to operate next week. He has told us he will get in contact with us later this week to come back to his office to go over all the details and get a date set for surgery.

I am anxious and glad to have this beasty thing out of his head. I feel his symptoms seem to be getting worse but he thinks now that he knows what it is it could just be all in his head. No pun intended there!

I also wanted to give a shout out to all of his coworkers. We were informed that several of you have donated your vacation hours on his behalf. Unfortunately, The HR department is telling him they do not want to use it right now and to save it for later. Therefore, they are requiring he get on short term disability at 60% of his pay. We are hoping they will give a little and allow him to, at least, use some of those donated hours for this month as Christmas is so close and it would be very helpful!

Cross your fingers!!

I will post again after we have a definite date of surgery!

Thanks again everyone!