Phil posted an update directly to Facebook earlier, but we wanted to give a few more details and make sure our nonFB-ers were in on the news.

The stent procedure this morning was unsuccessful. Prior to starting, the GI doc told us the second attempt is generally successful about 80% of the time. We were encouraged. But when the phone rang with the word to meet him in consultation way too fast, we knew he probably had to stop. Dr. Saleh explained the issue – the encasing tumor has forced the duct to close up as if cinched with “purse strings” (his words). The next step is to put in a temporary external drain using an Interventional Radiology team. This procedure will be performed under general anesthesia (praise the Lord) although it is typically done with sedation. Given the circumstances of Maggie’s case, this is being done due to the likelihood of major discomfort. (Mom and Dad say bring on the anesthesia!) We’re expecting an early start – the schedule says 7:30 am – if nothing changes. We’ll allow her to recover and, based on how she feels, she’ll remain in the hospital or sleep at the hotel. We won’t leave town until her liver counts show a clear pattern of declining. We HOPE to leave for home sometime Thursday. That is the prayer – obviously we won’t be rushing out of here too quickly.

The second matter of prayer – and please don’t think we’re crazy – is Saturday. Maggie wants to rappel in Jackson as part of Over the Edge with Friends Batson fundraiser. She is slated to do this at 8:00 am Saturday. If her doctors here agree and if she feels up to it (two big hurdles), then we may allow it. This is important to her, so we’ve promised to do all we can to help. She’ll need extra strength and the crossing of several bridges to get there. But, I wouldn’t bet against her.

Third matter – the drain is a temporary fix. Most likely, we’ll return early next week for a longer term fix to the bile duct issue. A stent of some type through some means needs to be placed. We’re allowing her team to explore options and present them to us.

Fourth matter – beyond stent placement, there is THE issue to be addressed – the collapsed bile duct and the presence of that tumor. We need it to shrink and loosen its grip on the duct. Surgery is not a likely option. It would be majorly extensive and would probably leave her more compromised than she is at the present. Other options to be explored include radiation and chemotherapy. Dr. Saleh will be speaking to Dr. Raghav at MD Anderson to bring him up to speed on the situation and seek his input. We are thankful for that – the more those great minds work together, the better the answers we’ll get.

That is pretty much laying out all we know at this point. We want you all informed for more specific praying. Tomorrow we’ll follow today’s pattern – Phil will place an early FB update and I’ll follow with more detail when able.

Thank you for allowing us to bombard you with information and concerns. We value the strength found when the Body works and prays together. Thank you for being a part. Goodnight.