This is the first posting in quite awhile because we have been in a state of constant movement since the initial diagnoses. With a family of five, there are so many other factors involved along with the myriad of instructions to adhere to regarding timed medication, injections, rest, forbidden foods and activities, (for example; Ashton cannot take the dog, Tyson, for a walk for fear of bacteria when the dog does his business!). We must be so careful while going through this process because the treatments severely compromised his immune system.
Aggressive chemotherapy and radiation treatments are completed for the bone cancer and will resume for the cancer in his chest. When first diagnosed, doctors discovered the bone cancer had metastasized (spread) to the chest, to dime-sized lesions. Chemotherapy should work to shrink and hopefully they will disappear or turn to scar tissue.
The first surgery was performed October 7th. This was a twelve-hour radical removal of the bone, and the cancer, the 22 cm incision travels from below the knee to the upper thigh area. The length is due to the doctors constantly checking to ensure total removal of the cancer cells going up the leg. The surgeons cut out the entire knee, which they replaced with a metal and plastic knee.
After observation, we were safe to return home with instructions to return if a fever developed. Once he felt sufficiently rested, Ashton attended a football game and enjoyed a happy outing with friends this weekend, October 21-23. We are all grateful for the outpouring of support from his friends.
While the surgery was successful, and readings showed no further cancer present, Ashton developed a fever. Fevers indicate possible infection. We brought the fever down, but returned to the hospital to be safe.
Tuesday October 25th, the doctors reopened incision and drained the infection. Ashton’s body is young and strong, but these processes are extremely taxing for any person. He gets depressed and tired, but is still excited about getting through this to continue a happy productive life.
Today, Ashton is recovering from the second surgery on his leg. During the second surgery the infection was cleaned out, and a wound sack was inserted. The incision was left open for observation.
Unfortunately, doctors discovered that the bacteria has formed in two places, one type of bacteria has attached itself to the hardware.
Monday, Ashton will undergo a third surgery to replace the hardware. We are praying for total success and freedom from further infection.
The road is long and tiring, but in the midst of it all, our family is realizing many wonderful blessings. The many acts of kindness toward us and some unexpected financial help have touched our hearts deeply.
In our next post, we will update Ashton’s progress and hope to spend some time discussing the various outreaches of support we receive so that other families can find similar help during their experience with family health setbacks. We are so grateful for the skilled medical staff and their attentiveness to Ashton’s wellbeing.
We send love and prayers for happiness, peace and health to all our family, friends and supporters.
There is a donate button on this blog if you wish to donate directly to help offset the many expenses incurred during this difficult process. http://ashtonrichards.wordpress.com/
