I think anyone going through this needs a little luck along the way, and it's already starting for us. With some determined friends, a little help from the big guy upstairs, and a canceled vacation, I was able to get in for a consult with Dr. Stephanie Yap of the University Gynecological Oncology group on Friday, August 30th. Dr. Yap is extremely experienced with ovarian cancer and a highly regarded surgeon. We walked out of our appointment feeling like she is going to put a plan together that will save my life... so definitely glass-half-full vibes.

What we know: I have tumors on both ovaries, fluid in my abdomen (ascites), a mass on my abdominal lining and a mass on my liver. We got a call on Tuesday that the Liver MRI results showed that the mass on my liver is on the lining and NOT in my liver which the nurse told me multiple times was very good news.

What we don't know yet: The type of ovarian cancer, the stage, and the treatment plan details.

What we're working on: I have a PET scan scheduled for Friday, September 6th, and on Tuesday, September 10th, I have two procedures scheduled: a Paracentesis (procedure to drain the fluid in my abdomen) and a biopsy from the mass they see on my abdominal lining. I learned that regardless of where they biopsy, the tests will show the origin of the cancer, which I thought was really interesting.

What's next: We'll meet with Dr. Yap on Friday, September 13th to discuss the scan and test results, as well as my care plan. I imagine things will start to move quickly the week of September 16th. Since the cancer looks to be in multiple places, we will likely start with chemotherapy followed by surgery. When cancer has spread, they typically do chemo first because it shrinks the cancer everywhere. When they do surgery first, they have to wait for tissue to heal before they can start chemo. Oh, and I am probably going to lose these luscious locks (dang it). Even with cold capping, the chemo is very strong—so strong that it has a 75% success rate with chemo alone, even in advanced stages, so we'll take it.