The best news I can share with you is that on Tuesday morning, Ana Maria woke up and said it was the first time in 4 years that she didn't have a headache. How amazing is that? To get immediate relief like that -- I just love the faithfulness of the Lord! And I really really really love doctors and modern medicine. When Ana Maria woke up from the surgery, one of the first things she noticed was that her peripheral vision had been restored. She lifted her hands to the side of her face and said 'wow, I can see my hands.' Incredible.
So, here's the scoop on the surgery: it went incredibly well. The surgeon told us before the surgery that it was not likely that they would be able to get the entire tumor out and that she would need radiation treatment once she heals from the surgery. What I learned is that the area in which these types of tumors grow is very small and surrounded by a web of nerves and arteries that, if touched by the surgeons tools, could cause a serious/fatal result. Therefore, they have to go in, get what they can and basically hoping for the best. Some of these tumors are soft and mushy, and because of their consistency, they grow around the nerves and arteries and can even attach to them. This is when radiation is relied on. Ana Maria's tumor, thanks be to God, was solid and came out in one piece. The ENT who assisted in the surgery (and is also a Christian) had a very good feeling that they got it all. That is what we are praying for. We will not know for sure until she has another MRI in a few weeks. If that is the case, her recovery time and stay in Charleston will be much shorter. She will definitely be in Charleston for at least another 6 weeks. That raises another issue: the visa. She is likely going to need to stay past the expiration date - please pray for favor as we request an extension.
So many of you have asked how you can help. What we need most right now are people who would be willing to spend some time with her. Christy and Gerry both have jobs and are also trying to maintain somewhat of a normal life. Her son, Owaldy, will be leaving mid June to go back to the DR for a couple months so she will be facing a lot of time by herself. So, people who are willing to come sit with her during the day, or take her out for the day, have her over for dinner, invite her for the weekend, etc...we welcome your help. She is easy and wonderful company! (and FYI: being able to speak Spanish is helpful but not a must - don't let it stop you from hanging out with her if you don't know any Spanish - the language barrier never was, never has been an issue). Please email me (lizbailey1978@gmail.com) and let me know. Also, if you'd like to provide a meal for them, contact me.
We are also in the process of raising money to cover hospital stay and care for her and her family. If you would like to contribute, you can send a check to:
The Cathedral Church of St. Luke and St. Paul
memo line-DR SURGERY (very very important to put this in memo line)
126 Coming Street Charleston SC 29403
I want to thank you all SO much for your love and support during this time. I have so felt your prayers. It has been an incredibly unique, amazing, painful, joyful, crazy experience. I cannot honestly say I'd do it again if I had to - but it certainly has been an honor to be a part of something so special. Only God can orchestrate experiences like these!
Many, many blessings to you all and please be in touch if you can help in any way!
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