Talked to my surgeon today. Plans are for surgery to happen on the 14th. At this point, the surgeon believes the surgery can be done laparoscopically which would speed recovery. Obviously, if the surgery requires, the opening can be enlarged and the surgery performed in the traditional manner. Looks like surgery will remove the cancerous colon section and about twelve surrounding lymph nodes. The nodes filter the blood and while showing no sign of cancer, need to be checked to help assure that the cancer has not spread. In any case, I specifically asked if our planned July getaway to Holland, MI should be canceled. Answer was certainly not yet. If the surgery is successful and no spread to the disease has been found, I should be more than healed in time for the vacation. Likely will be a four or five week recovery period although I should be back on my feet sooner than that. Again, if nothing unexpected is found, there may be (Lord willing) no need for chemo.

I thought the meeting with the surgeon was very good and I've great reason to feel optimistic. Actually, I already felt pretty confident and the surgeon did nothing to discourage me.