Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Back in the ring

As many of you know, Todd is recovering at UPENN Hospital from an intense surgery he underwent on Monday. For the past 3 months (during his break from chemotherapy), Todd has been suffering from severe stomach pains and Monday's surgery was to determine the cause of the pain.

I wish more than anything else in the world that I had better news to share with you all. I don't. Very unfortunately and sadly, Todd's cancer came back to his abdominal cavity quite severely. The surgeon couldn't remove the tumors as they were too numerous and too adhered to the abdominal walls. He stopped the surgery and came out to tell me the news. Thankfully, I had my dad with me to lend a second pair of ears.

I am still trying to process everything and will write a more detailed update soon. For now, Todd is going to focus the next few days on recovering in the hospital and healing himself from the surgery. I am going to quarterback this thing as best I can and I have several meetings scheduled with oncologists on Friday to come up with a game plan.

Back in 2004, shortly after Todd's initial diagnosis, he asked me "What's the positive that's going to come out of all of this?" I was blown away by his mental strength. Now, six years later, post-surgery by only a few hours and still not fully able to comprehend the news, Todd told me that he's been training hard these past few years to get his body and mind ready and trained to fight whatever obstacles come his way.

Although the road we're about to go down will be difficult and present many hurdles, I can tell you all now that Todd and I plan to fight like hell to do whatever it takes to beat the odds once again.

Thank you all so much for your prayers, thoughts, and wishes. Even though I am not responding, I want you to know that your calls, texts, e-mails, and messages are very much appreciated.

Love,
Amanda

10 comments:

  1. I am at a loss for words. I am so sorry for this terrible news, but I know that you both have the mental and physical strength to take this fight to the limits. I am here - and can be there within a couple hours - for you in any small way possible.
    xoxox
    Timoney

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  2. Love you guys...praying for you and please let me know if there's anything I can do.

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  3. Dearest Amanda, Todd, Friends, and Family-
    I have been crying all morning, having read this newest news. However, I know that isn't the answer. All I can think is that we must all bond together as a part of Team Gov and keep the spirit, momentum, and strength going that Amanda and Todd have shown us. Please don't go through this alone. I have spoken to numerous people today who are ready to drop everything to help. The question is what can we do? I am working on some ideas, but just say the word, and we will do what we can to make it happen. Todd and Amanda, you have touched my life... and those of thousands of others... in such powerful ways, and you will continue to do so.

    I am sending love, hugs, prayers, and anything that you ask of me to you.
    Love,
    Sarah

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  4. I am so, so, sad (and quite a bit angry) to hear that this stupid cancer won't leave you guys alone already... GRRRR! My whole family is sending love, positive thoughts, strength, and hugs to you both as you (and your extensive support team) formulate your strategies and rally for this next challenge. xoxoxo,

    Sara Sutton Fell

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  5. Our thoughts and support are with the both of you.

    Kris and Sara Moser

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  6. Dearest Amanda and Todd,
    You are so brave. I'm sick to hear about this latest hurdle... yet another one to overcome. I'm here, ready and waiting, to offer you both tender recuperation and regeneration in Napa, whenever you can make it. It's a good place to build up your strength again, very peaceful and healthy... better than the pool house. Please know I'm sending send love your way and energy to keep your thoughts positive, and big hugs to you both.
    Much love, Tina (not the Fells... I used Sara's acct )

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  7. Much love to you both. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
    Pete and Robyn

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  8. We love you. Stay strong.
    Love,
    The Gittlesons

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  9. Dear Todd and Amanda,My husband Dick and I are sending daily prayers and positive thoughts your way. We also want to thank you for the support and care you offered our son, Kris Moser. You will never know how much it helped all of our family. You two are remarkable people.
    Sincerely, Sharon Moser

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