Jen’s surgery prep started around 7:45 this morning. Today’s procedures will last 4 to 5 hours.
To remove the tumor and attach the cage where her T12 used to be, Dr. Shasti will go in from the left side of Jen’s chest. He will likely have to remove a three inch section of one of her ribs to get to the site.
He explained, there are two ways to go after that. Option one avoids the lung cavity. Option two requires moving her lung out of the way. If he has to go with the second option, Jen would need a chest tube to drain the air from around her lung.
Jen joked, “while you’re in there, can you do a little liposuction?”
The tumor is the first priority. Dr. Shasti will remove as much of the mass as possible. “It would be unsafe” to try to get it all. The plan is to remove enough to proceed. Then he attaches the cage, to reinforce the spine.
Whether Jen recovers in ICU, or a regular room depends on if she has a chest tube when she wakes.
There is an hour and a half of prep, 3 to 4 hours of work and another hour post-op recovery. Its going to be a long day.
Sending prayers and support for Jennifer, Stephen and the whole surgical team. Jennifer is strong and in a good mental state for this trial.
Thoughts and prayers 🙏 are with you and Jen today. Both of you are strong and will get through this challenge together ❤. Keep the faith. Love you both.
Colleen & Peggy
When this long day is over, it will be done and behind you and you can move on to the next phase of this journey. Jen and Stephen, I have not one doubt that whatever comes next you will take head on and be victorious. One minute, one hour, one day at a time. You’ve got this!
Jennifer my thoughts have been with you during this… and will continue well after. Just like the first surgery, you will make it through this one a stronger you.
Once this is all over with, let me know when you’re ready for some short ribs.
Love Hollie
We are all praying for Jennifer today! Stay strong 💪🏽
Much love, Autumn, Toby, Finley, Hudson
Sending prayers to both of you. Jenn is a trooper and you are her rock. ❤️
May you and your family have peace today. Praying for all of you including the entire “Jen Team” .
Thoughts, prayers and love being lifted up! Much love to you!
Stephen, you and Jenn will get through this. Praying that the surgery will go as expected.
All my thoughts to you both.
Hoping today was a brilliant success with the least invasive option. I think of you often and 🙏🏻Right after💐
Sending you both love, healing thoughts and prayers from Teamconderoga! You’ve got this Jennifer!!!!
Thinking and praying for you Jennifer, Stephen and all your family.
Hope all went well today! Get some rest! Hugs to you both!
Thinking of you both today ❤️
Our prayers are with you, Jennifer, Stephen and family – Lots of love Heather and Ronan
We’re wishing you all the best and that we love you. Sharon and Allen