Finally -- some answers

Every day seems to bring about more answers and more questions. This morning one of the doctors said that Jhonny appeared a little better but that there were still complications. We met with the specialist who said that although the fluid was draining, there is a possibility that there will need to be more surgery to insure that this drainage continues. They call it a ‘valvula’ and without internet connection, I have not been able to check on more information. Because the surgery sounds very serious I decided to get a second opinion.

I met with a cancer specialist. Although we have not been able to get the results, this doctor found out that the tumor is one that can not be treated with neither chemotherapy nor radiation. There is a good chance that it will continue to grow and more surgeries will need to be done in the future. However, at this time, the ‘valvula’ is the best option if the fluid does not drain. We need to wait another 5 or 6 days to see if this operation is necessary. What they would do is insert a tube in his head and lace it through his body to his stomach so that the fluid would continually drain. Without it the pressure would build up and would cause more problems.

It is a relief to have some information. I am assured daily that Jhonny would have died without the operation. They are also amazed that Jhonny lived without symptoms for so long. If I were not there to assure them that Erselia was right, I am sure they would not believe her.

However, there are times when I have doubts about what we have done. There is a chance that he will have one weak side and have vision problems. We still do not know how his brain will heal and if there is more damgage. If he is truly handicapped, what is his future in the campo? How will his parents care for him and the other five children? Will it be too much of a burden? How does anyone cope with this without faith?