Well, friends, my hubby is scheduled for another surgery on Monday to repair a broken jaw. Two weeks ago, he had an infection brewing in the same area of his fistula. While eating breakfast one morning, he heard a pop and experienced excruciating pain. Off to the Emergency Department where it was determined he had broken his jaw. Thank you radiation, for killing the cancer cells but, darn it, you have stealthily sneaked in once again to remind us that you are the gift that keeps on giving! His surgery is on Monday. The big question is: did the infection cause the break or did the break result in infection. The surgeon will know what he has to do once he gets in there. Geez, can my man ever get a break?

I know many of you out there have been right where Clark is today and I write knowing that you all get it. But I need to hear you. Please send me some encouraging words. I NEEED them NOW! He is totally bummed out and discouraged. There is a bit of the unknown here as his anatomy is sooooo different from the norm. But I know we are in a good place---HUP.But this is an efffin drag. Geez, he has been drinking ALL his meals, he is in PAIN, jaw is out of alignment....

I have been very quiet lately. But I have reached my limit and I am asking for support. Not doing FB this time...too public.

My best to you all�
Anita

Anita - so sorry to hear about this latest trouble! I am glad that the surgery is set for Monday, though. Jaw pain is just miserable. It sounds like you have confidence in the surgeon, though. It's funny - veterinary surgeons seem to have a similar personality to the human variety - a good deal of confidence (some would call it ego). But they can do some pretty amazing things.
Best wishes over the weekend!
Maria

Thank you for responding, Maria. I just need some encouraging words right now. This is a never ending battle.

Anita,

I am so sorry to hear this. Wow, surgery #13. What are they going to do to repair his jaw?

My problems have been minor compared to what Clark has gone through, but I can certainly understand how he feels. It seems I take one step forward and solve one issue and they have another one crop up. It really is a drag isn't it?

You are at an excellent hospital with a great doctor, so I'm sure Clark will be fine. Clark is lucky to have you in his corner as I know you will take great care of him.

Is he up to doing something special this weekend? Even if it is just a walk in the park, or a ride through the countryside. And don't forget to take time for yourself!

You both are in my thoughts and prayers. Please update when you have a chance after the surgery.

Hi, Susan,

Years ago, Clark had a fracture that was encased in scar tissue and was stable. It seems that this fracture is in the new bone from the fibular graft. The plan is to stabilize the bones with a metal plate and also to remove the fistula. The big unknown is the condition of the bone given the infectious process. If the bone is infected, then there will be an different plan at a later date. I hate the "unknown".

Thanks for responding! I love how my buddies rally!

best�
Anita

Hi Anita

So very sorry to hear about Clark�s jaw! I truly feel for him. His condition is especially difficult and painful on top of his current day to day challenges.

Best wishes for a successful surgery and smooth recovery.

Thinking of you both!
Karen

My positive thoughts are with both of you, Anita, and may the surgeon find the best way to resolve this, and hope the appropriate medications ease the pain.

Anita,

This is much more than anyone should have to endure. I hear you and feel how awful this must be. You are right and we agree - this stinks.

Do you need anti-anxiety meds, especially during this waiting time?

I will be thinking about both of you,
Lottie

Anita, I am so sorry you and Clark are faced with this. Sending you some hugs and love.

Anita,

I'm so sorry that you and Clark are going through this. I too have a broken mandible brought on by ORN and an infection. Mine was pathologic and occurred around May 19. I am now in hyperbaric oxygen therapy again and will have "debridement" surgery after 20 dives, followed by another 10 dives. My mandible and fistulas had been pretty stable for several years. I may have avoided a break had I been on the infection as soon as it showed up, but I didn't begin ABT for about a week. My Oral Surgeon said that WBCs will arrive on the scene and will go after weak bone as well as damaged tissue. I don't have pain fortunately. My docs agree that a break was probably inevitable, "just a matter of time."

I wish I could offer more than my wishes for a successful surgery and recovery. You are so right about the "gift" of radiation. There seems always to be a new challenge around the corner.