Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Diagnosis and Game Plan

It all started on Thanksgiving morning. Norm went to the emergency room with symptoms including trouble swallowing, tingling in his hands and feet - indications of a mild stroke. After an incredibly long day of tests including a CAT scan and MRI, the doctors found what appeared to be a tumor in the left parietal lobe of Norm's brain. After being transferred from St. Vincent's to Kaiser Sunnyside, Norm and Marge met with the Neurosurgeon who has diagnosed Norm with Glioblastoma. A brain tumor. They won't know 100% until after the surgery and biopsy, so there is still hope that it is not as malicious as it appears.

Norm is scheduled for surgery on Thursday afternoon. We hope that they will be able to remove all or most of the tumor which will reduce some of the pressure on his brain. Norm is expected to be in ICU for a day or two to recover. After a few days in the hospital, we hope he will be able to go home for 3-4 weeks before he begins a rigorous radiation and chemo regimen.

At this point, Norm, Marge and their family need your love and support. Whether it is a prayer, a wishing well, a shooting star, or just good vibes - please send them Norm's way. We all know the power of positive thinking.