what's up

It has been a busy month. It started with us taking the kids to Disney World. The trip was great! The kids had a great time, the parents survived, and I felt good the whole time. We were blessed, and we really enjoyed our trip.
Two days after returning from Disney World I got sick. I did not think much of it since it's typical for me to feel a bit under the weather as I am still under going chemotherapy. My doctor thought otherwise, and wanted to check me into the hospital for some testing. I did not want to go in since I thought it was nothing, he convinced me otherwise. Upon checking into the hospital , and running some tests, they discovered some infection and fluids in my lungs that required immediate attention. Surgery was scheduled for the next morning to remove the infection/fluids. Upon performing the surgery they discovered that the lower left lobe was collapsed and nothing more than a ball of cancer, and the upper left lobe was completely collapsed. While attempting to clean out the infection/fluids from the lungs they discovered a hole somewhere in my lungs. They installed four tubes in my lungs to drain the fluids, and inflate the lungs. And they put me on continuous antibiotics to clean out the infection. They had to remove one of my ribs during the surgery to get better access to my lungs. I now have a very large scar (~ 30 staples) on my left side, not to mention the holes where the tubes are inserted. I can't leave the hospital until the hole has been plugged. The idea is that if they can get the fluids out and the lobes inflated the lung walls will seal itself against the plural cavity and seal the hole. I have been in the hospital for one week now as they try to seal off the hole. It is slow going and the doctor says it could take another two to three weeks in the hospital to seal off the hole, if they can do it at all. If the hole cannot be sealed then surgery will be required to either remove the lower left lobe, or both the upper and lower lobes. The surgery is risky so we will give the lungs more time to heal themselves before going with that option. There is a lot of pain associated with the rib removal, and the tubes in my lungs. They are controlling the pain with pain medications, and the infection is being treated with antibiotics. The worst of it is the waiting, and staying in the hospital. Monica has been able to stay with me in the hospital nearly every night. She is awesome. I could not do any of this without her. My brother has taken the kids to his house for the week. This is a great distraction for them, and it gives Monica and I some time to resolve this issue. The nurses have been great, the food is good, but the length of stay at the hospital is tough. Another three weeks here may kill me, if the cancer does not. Thanks to all who have helped us, or offered help. And thanks to those who have kept us in their prayers. Take Care -Eric