Rick,

I truly believe I was blessed on finding this tumor when and how it happened. I also had a special procedure done called the da vinci surgery (google it). Its a robot that goes inside you with 5 small incisions and with the doctor working with this very tiny pair of scissors cuts out the tumor. I did not have to be cut open to get to the tumor which was also in the best position of the kidney. This procedure is not covered by any insurance companies. They still considered experimental, even though its been around for 18 years. I also was only in the hospital for 2 days and not a week. I just got my 6 month checkup and so far nothing is back.

My primary doctor was shocked and kept asking prior to the surgery if I had any pain in the lower back. I sad no, nothing. My partner had to keep putting off her knee replacement and that took place after the doc gave me the ok to lift things. I could go on, but needless to say 2013 has been the worse year of health for both of us. Champ helped us through all of it. He is super smart. Plus we have super neighbors.

I will come on more often.

Pam