Liver surgery done!

Madeleine’s Blog

July 3, 2013

So do not fear, for I am with you

Do not be dismayed, for I am your God

I will strengthen you and help you

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand

Isaiah 41:10

Madeleine's NIH "home" for the next week

This morning, Madeleine had major surgery at NIH to remove the softball-sized tumor that had been growing in the middle of her liver. We just received word that the surgery was successful, and that Madeleine is beginning her recovery there in the ICU. The doctors and nurses (and her parents) are keeping a close eye on her, but thank you for keeping her in your prayers during this time! 

The doctors have let Madeleine know that recovery from the surgery will take some time even though she is young and healthy. Fortunately there is an on-site lodge for patient families, which will enable her parents to be there with her.

Madeleine and her folks have been in Maryland since Monday. They spent yesterday meeting with the doctor in charge of her clinical trial, as well as the surgeon in charge of today's liver surgery. Both of these doctors are very impressive in regard to their level of training and experience with melanoma, and that helps put your mind at ease. 

Madeleine's latest scans had revealed continued growth in her liver tumor, as well as a few additional lymph nodes. But her doctors have also expressed that "something" has been holding back the cancer from spreading - and for that we are very grateful. Because a tumor is needed for the TIL therapy, the liver tumor was chosen. (Sometimes they are able to do liver surgery laparoscopically, but that wasn't possible in this case because of the size and location of the tumor.) We are really glad the liver tumor was chosen, and glad that it is out of there!

The researchers at NIH have already taken the tumor from Madeleine's surgery and are beginning the painstaking process of growing the TIL cells that she will need to help fight her cancer. 

Please join us in praying for Madeleine's safe and timely recovery from surgery; that the cells collected today will be able to be used for her successful treatment; and that God would continue to hold back the cancer in her body as she recovers and waits for her cells to grow into billions. Thank you.