update 21st Feb

Saw Caroline at hospital today.

The operation went well, it was a complete removal of the stomach. Unfortunately the team did try to do keyhole surgery, but were unable to do so, she had it done the good old fashioned way. The surgeon commented that he could need see a tumour or even feel a lump! He felt that the operation would be enough and no further treatment would be required. We will await the results of the "post-mortem" on the stomach and Lymph nodes to see what happens next. (this should be next week Wednesday).

The medical team are amazed at just how well she is looking and she seems to be doing well. She is in very good and caring hands. She even had some colour on her cheeks and remains positive. She is feeling very tired and has an array of tubes going in her and out of her. Including a very uncomfortable one that goes into her nostril, down her throat and into her lung. (hopefully this tube will be removed today). She is not experiencing any major pain, just discomfort.

Caroline cannot at this stage eat or drink through her mouth. She is currently being given water, through a drip, for the next 5 days and then will be drip fed liquid food. The hope is that she will be able to eat 'soft food', before being discharged.

Prayer points:

1. Give thanks for the surgery and the skill and care of the surgical team.
2. For continued healing of the wounds and rest.
3. That she will be able to sleep at night.
4. There is an old lady in her room who shouts a lot at night. Pray that God will give this lady peace, a peace that would be of benefit to the others in the ward.
5. Caroline is finding that time tends to drag in hospital, she is someone who likes to be busy. Could you pray that she will find rest and purpose in the dull moments of recovery.