Current situation:
1. I have adeno-carcinoma (cancer) in my lacrimal gland (tear gland). This diagnosis is a result of extensive diagnostic imaging (CT scan, enhanced MRI, and ultrasound), and finally by a pathological examination of a biopsy performed by Dr Symanski.
2. This type of cancer is very common. It is the same type that composes breast cancer, colon cancer, and lung cancer. However, having this cancer in the lacrimal gland is very unusual.
3. I will see my oncologist (cancer doctor) tomorrow. His name is Dr. Agulnik. He was recommended by the head of oncology at Northwestern Hospital. He is a specialist in head and neck cancers.
4. Dr Agulnik will confer with two ocular (eye) surgeons. Their names are Dr. Jerry Harris (Milwaukee) and Dr. Tsee (Florida). According to Dr. Syamanski, these two people have the most extensive experience with adeno-carcinoma in the lacrimal gland in the country.
We don’t know yet how extensive this cancer is. We will have more information tomorrow (12/21), after my first appointment with the oncologist.
What you can do:
1. Marines: I don’t want to talk about this. It kind of defeats the purpose of the email. You are only allowed to feel sorry for me if that makes you buy me drinks at the bar (especially GySgt Peterson).
2. All in all, I feel very fortunate to be in my current situation. I couldn’t ask for a better situation if this was going to happen. I am VERY confident in the level of care I am receiving. All four of the doctors involved are experts in their field, and I am at the best hospital I have ever been to. I am close to my family, and I have a good support system from my friends. If this had to happen, I couldn’t pick it any better. I’ll keep you guys updated via this channel as I get information.
