My Mother, the Guinea Pig...er, case study

Mother has a low grade endometrial adenocarcinoma, but she is not currently physically strong enough for surgery. Furthermore, because of her history of strokes, she can't have the hormone therapy (Megace) normally called for in such a case. In an effort to do something to make her feel better, possibly even well enough to undergo surgery, her gynecological oncologist suggested an experimental use of the Mirena IUD, This is a small, progesterone-laced plastic T that is implanted into the uterus where it delivers small, localized, constant doses of hormone. Theoretically, anyway, the Coumadin should be sufficient to overcome any tendency of the hormone to cause clotting, since very little of the progesterone should get into her system.

Daddy, Cheyenne and I took Mother to USC Norris Cancer Center yesterday and stayed with her while she had the IUD placed. As recommended by the nurse, she had taken Vicodin and Benedryl to help ease the pain and help her relax, but it was still a painful process. I wonder if, at less than a month shy of 75, Mother is the oldest woman to ever get an IUD. I think the women can probably sympathize. Fortunately, it didn't take long, though I'm sure it seemed longer on the table than it did from my vantage point, and the cramping settled down fairly quickly.

We had an uneventful trip back to my house, and after an hour or so, Mother felt like having some supper. This is a good sign. Let's all keep good thoughts on her behalf.