Bum Briefing #15 – By Beth

So, the big news is that Eric’s second (and last) planned surgery is tomorrow (Wednesday)! He is going through prep today (Tuesday), which is more simple than any other procedure or the last surgery, by far. He will be on clear liquids in the afternoon, and since his intestines work a bit differently with the ileostomy, he may not need to take anything additional to clean him out besides coffee and other clear liquids. 

The surgery on Wednesday is called a “Diverting loop ileostomy takedown with port removal,” which basically means they will be reversing the work they did in the last surgery so that Eric’s bowels will work normally, and he will no longer have the ostomy bag. They will also be removing his port, which was placed in his chest at the beginning of this journey, and was there to help access his veins to deliver medications. This surgery is expected to be about 45 minutes, vs his previous surgery that lasted over 4 hours.

Based on the last surgery, and how recovery went, we are a bit anxious at what might be in store for this one. The surgeon says there’s only a 10% chance of developing the same type of complication he had last time, when there was a 30% chance in the last surgery. But, his oncologist, who has lived experience, responded to the question of “what are the chances that he will get an ileus this time,” with, “oh 100%!” So, somewhere in-between 10% and 100% of getting an ileus…. 

So, Eric has planned to do what he can to help prevent it, learning from the last time. His goal is to be home for the final F1 race on Sunday.

How else are we preparing? Well, our other Gullickson boy, Basil, if you remember had a massive blow out the morning of his last surgery. I have reached out to the vet and have antibiotics on hand to address any of those issues should they arise. He’s really been an aggressive chewer lately, and going after all the things he shouldn’t…. like sticks, mulch, and carpet. His half birthday was yesterday, and he’s already 55 pounds! Although, he continually tries to convince us that he is starving…. Let’s hope for no additional sympathetic butt problems from the pups this time!

We are really excited to see the light at the end of the cancer tunnel! I hope all of you reading this are doing well, and taking time with your family and loved ones during this holiday season. Thank you all for following our journey and for all the support along the way.