Dr. Lewis' Report

We have just finished speaking with Amanda's main surgeon, Dr. Lewis. Her report to us was filled with good news and reason to praise.

First - the surgery went well with no complications. Amanda experienced no major bleeding (which is a major concern with a surgery this size) and her vital signs were strong and solid the whole way through.

Second - once the tumor and surrounding pelvic area was removed, Dr. Lewis spent time dissecting and viewing it and the bone. She was happy to report to us that the soft tissue tumor (the large mass in her back) was far enough from the bone that they were able to get a clean, wide margin around it. Also, the original tumor, that was in the pelvic area, was dead. "Dead, dead, dead" were her words. That is wonderful because it means to us that the chemo/radiation to that area had worked well. Finally, they scraped the bone near the bottom of the spine (it was not removed but was close to the incision area) and Dr. Lewis has just returned to the waiting room to tell us there were "no cancer cells present - it was negative". Praise God!

Third - and this was balm to our "parent hearts" she spoke of Amanda and what an incredible young person she is. She even told us she saw Amanda before she went under the anesthesia and spoke of how calm she was. What a testimony she presents.

Finally - although they had cleared 15 hours for the surgery, it has gone so well that we are way ahead of schedule. They are closing now, it could take about another hour or so and then she will be out.

This is not the day we would have willed, not what we wanted for our child. But it is the day we were given and truly God was with Amanda and her surgical team. We are forever grateful for the prayers that covered this day and for His presence in that operating room.