The Final Mile
This post was originally published on Corrina’s Caringbridge site:
https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/corrina
Two weeks ago, Corrina had her routine MRI. The length between these check ins are increasing now as Corrina puts the C-word way behind her into life's rearview mirror (still zero signs of tumor regression). It had been almost a year since Corrina visited the Smilow Cancer Center and as much as we love Dr. V and Joy, we're happy that our visits are gaining less frequency.
As I write this, Corrina is undergoing what, for all signs, will be her last surgery and major medical procedure on this long journey.
Today, having healed incredibly well since phase 1 of her surgery to repair the craniotomy in July, Corrina's doctors are inserting a titanium mesh plate to account for the bone previously removed, round out her skull, and provide ultimate protection - don't try to headbutt this woman going forward, you'll lose to her bionic powers...
As much as we try to bring light humor to this situation, this is still a major event which fills us with anxiety. That being said, Corrina has been through so much on this journey that she is now a fully-weathered warrior. She has developed an incredible ability to meet nerves with grace, tackle these obstacles head on, and never look back.
I think the timing of this procedure is quite fitting. Globally, we have been through some of the darkest days any of us have experienced. Now, almost at once, we move forward with hope, action, and new beginnings.
Corrina, Grover, Mazzy, David & Hugo
I remember way back in September 2018, the head of Neuro-Surgery at UCONN telling us to brace for what will undoubtedly be a long road ahead. We had no idea what the path would look like at the time. Year One was a journey into darkness, wrought with fear and confusion, but perseverance nonetheless. Year Two has been defined by hope and healing. Please know that you have all been a part of every step of this journey. Your love and support has provided the foundation on which Corrina has been able to thrive. We have channeled all your positive thoughts and focused energy into a strength which enables us never to stop working towards healing and stability.
Corrina, Claudia, David Sr., Dylan and I are all so incredibly grateful for all of you. Here's to the New Era of our lives.
With love, David
UPDATE from Claudia as of 8:59am: "Corrina’s surgery is done. Surgery went well and Corrina is doing quite well. Still in OR recovery...[Dr. Steinbacher/Yale] said everything looked great from earlier surgery."
