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The current prognosis is that Roxanna will return to an "almost-normal" life, although she will undergo a lengthy period of rehabilitation.
As many of you know, Roxanna was scheduled for surgery this past Monday (September 14); a specialist at George Washington University Hospital was planning to remove another large portion of her small intestine, which had been severely damaged by the cancer and/or the chemotherapy treatments.
However, when they opened up her body to perform the
surgery, her small intestine -- there were 6-10 feet left after her last surgery -- was
gone! And all of the tumors were gone! In addition, the surgeon did a very thorough check,
and found that all of Roxanna's other internal organs are in great condition, much better
than could possibly have been expected after all she has gone through.
The bad news is that Roxanna will not be able to eat but will have to receive her nutrition through an IV tube. (Currently, there is no successful, proven method for transplanting the small intestine. But who knows what the future holds?)
In addition, she will continue receiving injections for at least 3 - 6 months of the Bolivian medicine that has been fighting her cancer so successfully.
The upcoming challenges include ensuring that Roxanna's nutritional needs are met, which will require constant monitoring, and ensuring her emotional well-being, as her life will not return completely to normal. Miguel hopes to encourage her interest in music, art, and reading as she recovers.
Roxanna is not strong enough to receive visitors at this time, but if you would like to send a card, letter, flowers, balloons, etc., she will be in the hospital for another 7 - 10 days, at the following address:
Roxanna Salas
George Washington University Hospital
901 23rd Street, NW
Room 4256
Washington, DC 20037
Miguel will provide an update as to when she will be strong enough to receive visitors.
If you would like to send a card and/or a check, their home address is:
OR if you would like to send an anonymous contribution, please send it to:
Lisa will simply deposit the check and write a single check to Miguel & Roxanna.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Miquel Salas, Lisa Harvey or Will Burkett 703/924-6886 (home)
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* The meaning of the Pansy is of Thoughtful and/or Recollection. Most flowers historically have some underlining meaning like a single red rose or a dozen red roses or white carnation. If you would like to learn more about the meaning of flowers simply go to your favorite search engine and enter "flowers meaning" (without the quotes) and see whatcha get or try The meaning of Flowers for starters.
Pictures owned and copyrighted © by Miquel and Roxanna Salas. Miquel has graciously given permission for me to display pictures of Roxanna here on this page. Thanks Miquel. Mike.