Support Registry Update

1/20/25 - Surgery Success

In support of
The Berndt Family
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Picture: While I was down and out recovering, the boys got to enjoy a rare snow day here in Georgia.

Surgery was a success.  Dr. Yap shared that she was able to remove all visible cancer and that the remaining chemo appointments should kill any remaining cells.  She did need to make a larger vertical incision which is about 5" long above my belly button to get everything but I think we all agree that a frankenstein stomach is well worth the peace of mind.  I mean, what's one more physical scar at this point?

Because of the larger incision I stayed in the hospital after surgery.  I had C-sections with both boys so I thought the pain level would be comparable.  Nope, definitely much worse and glad I did not know that going into surgery.  If it wasn't for the pending snow storm I would have stayed in the hospital for 3 nights but we love a good challenge.  And trying to get out of your bed without using your ab muscles was super fun.  As always, Matt took great care of me and  handled everything with much appreciated patience and grace.  

I was in bed resting for a solid week and finally turned the corner Thursday.  I was able to enjoy some quality time with special visitors over the weekend.  And while I still get tired easily, I no longer wish for death each time I sneeze... so we'll count it as a win.

We have my post-op appointment with Dr. Yap tomorrow and will learn more about the pathology report and how that effects my remaining chemo appointments and potential maintenance options.

Thank you for your prayers, for checking on us, the delicious meals and incredible support.  We would not be where we are mentally and emotionally without you all.  We are grateful to be able to focus on the future and continue to keep moving forward towards a NED (no evidence of disease) scan result sometime in April.

We Got This 🩵


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Comments

Elle Lamb

So glad you're on the better side of abdominal surgery recovery! You made me LOL with that sneeze comment--I can only imagine how excruciating that was! You are always on my heart and in my thoughts Love you!
  • 3 days ago

Christiaens7

Monica we are so happy that the surgery was a success!!! That must be a good feeling to have that behind you. It’s all a process and takes time but nice that you can kind of see an end insight. We Want you to know that we are thinking about you and We pray for you every day. 💕
How fun that you got snow!
  • 1 day ago