General Discussion
Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsTomorrow's the day . . . and it's almost here.
My surgery to remove the cancerous tumor in my right lung happens tomorrow, Monday March 16th. Mine is the first case of the day.
I have to be there between 5 and 5:30 a.m. The surgery is slated to start at 7:30 a.m. PST. It could take 4 hours to accomplish.
All the months of diagnostics, xrays, ct scans, blood work and etc. will culminate tomorrow.
And yes, I'm scared.
The enormity of this surgery is now hitting me. I am working on staying calm throughout the day. My daughter will be here later today so she'll drive me to the hospital.
The Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. The irony is not lost on me.
I hope that you will keep me in your thoughts! My deep thanks to all who respond. It means a lot.
canetoad
(20,698 posts)Best wishes. I'm sure it's going to go well.
NewHendoLib
(61,823 posts)2naSalit
(102,210 posts)Hang in there and know that you are in good hands. I am always scared whenever I have to have something serious done, it's in our nature.
Got my altar ready!
Let us know how it went when you feel up to it.
Totally Tunsie
(11,792 posts)We'll be praying for you and holding you in our thoughts. You will be missed during your recovery, but take every minute you need to come back to DU in perfect health.
mountain grammy
(28,975 posts)and waiting for the all clear update.. All the best CP see you tomorrow evening.
fuck Ronald Reagan!
Faux pas
(16,320 posts)most spectacular healing and coping vibes CaliforniaPeggy!
lame54
(39,632 posts)May all go better than well
Solly Mack
(96,847 posts)Hope22
(4,701 posts)Youve got this. You will feel so much better when this is behind you! Healing love and light to you! 💗🙏🏼💐🥰
hlthe2b
(113,724 posts)Keep that in mind and derive some power, calm, and positive vibes from all of us!
Be well, CaliforniaPeggy and may you recover quickly. We're here rooting for you!
bif
(26,938 posts)tavernier
(14,426 posts)Add my prayers and good vibes and lots of gold pots at the end of the rainbow straight to your lungs tomorrow!!
dickthegrouch
(4,487 posts)Do everything you can to calm yourself.
I find music (especially guitar or harp) to be very calming. I also listen to a lot of choral music from the 17-18 centuries at volumes that my headphones allow, but my neighbors wouldn't!
Zackzzzz
(351 posts)Good, Good, Good, Good Vibrations.
dalton99a
(93,882 posts)spanone
(141,403 posts)♥️♥️♥️
livetohike
(24,222 posts)surgery team tomorrow morning CalPeggy. You got this my friend.
The Wizard
(13,705 posts)Never ever give up . Stay strong.
surfered
(13,149 posts)InstantGratification
(431 posts)jfz9580m
(17,047 posts)leftstreet
(40,298 posts)littlemissmartypants
(32,977 posts)We love you. Stay strong. ❤️
Grim Chieftain
(1,630 posts)Please know you are in my thoughts now and especially tomorrow. Much love and best wishes are with you.
snacker
(3,657 posts)and keeping you in my thoughts.
irisblue
(37,389 posts)ZDU
(1,220 posts)We look forward to your next round of beautiful photos once you're back! Good thoughts, great vibes!
Kali
(56,815 posts)h2ebits
(996 posts)You are in my thoughts and I wish for you the best possible outcome.
Tbear
(688 posts)There is no way a just God would let you die in RR hospital. No way!
erronis
(23,660 posts)intrepidity
(8,578 posts)Getting to UCLA by 5am on a Monday, ugh, that might be the worst part.
All the best vibes heading your way Peggy!
FalloutShelter
(14,404 posts)Sending all the vibes I can send, for a successful surgery and speedy recovery.
iamateacher
(1,118 posts)Permanut
(8,335 posts)Updates. We want updates.
iluvtennis
(21,494 posts)malaise
(295,455 posts)nuxvomica
(14,051 posts)According to US News and World Report. That's nothing to sneeze at. You are in good hands.
judesedit
(4,589 posts)We want you back here ASAP. Thank you for all you do.
NNadir
(37,891 posts)MizLibby
(396 posts)I'm originally from Los Angeles and you are going to the finest facility in the city. Sending you love and hugs.
niyad
(131,925 posts)procedure, and swift and complete recovery and healing. Know that you and your surgical team are surrounded by love.
CrispyQ
(40,919 posts)lamp_shade
(15,455 posts)flashman13
(2,350 posts)JMCKUSICK
(5,894 posts)Sending you great healing vibes and prayers CaliforniaPeggy.
There's also the secret recipe for success in your life CP, it's called too many of us need you so your work here isn't done.
I for one, need, not want, but need more bready treat photos to torture me
Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee.
Holding you near and Dear CP.
Katcat
(572 posts)And everything that goes with that. Weve never met in person but youve been in my life for years now. Do what the experts say and GET WELL!
True Dough
(26,470 posts)soon you'll be able to breathe a sigh of relief with two healthy lungs.
Take care, Peggy. We'll be eagerly awaiting your return!
denvine
(854 posts)Wishing for a successful procedure and a speedy recovery!
Buddyzbuddy
(2,486 posts)Not in a creepy stalker kind of way but positive thoughts of your outcome.
You'll be in good hands at UCLA.
I'm looking forward to seeing your post surgery post, when your able.
BlueWaveNeverEnd
(13,995 posts)chowder66
(12,181 posts)stage left
(3,279 posts)the best.
Ocelot II
(130,286 posts)barbtries
(31,290 posts)and hoping for the very best!
Diamond_Dog
(40,393 posts)I know youll be just fine!
LA Blue Bengal
(53 posts)good vibes and good thoughts. You got this, Peggy!
cab67
(3,709 posts)NewLarry
(151 posts)best wishes and heartfelt prayers you need and/or want!
bucolic_frolic
(54,886 posts)snowybirdie
(6,665 posts)You have a lot of support. Heal quickly!
bsiebs
(955 posts)... before you go under, turn to the surrounding doctors and nurses and say "I hope you're all Democrats"...
3catwoman3
(29,263 posts)Lots of good vibes headed your way from your extended DU family.
We'll all be waiting to hear from you.
TBF
(36,461 posts)bluestarone
(22,050 posts)A lot of LOVE behind you here!! We are ALL pulling for you.
tinrobot
(12,045 posts)Get well soon!
MIButterfly
(2,613 posts)My dear CaliforniaPeggy, I will be thinking of you. I wish you the best of luck tomorrow and a speedy recovery thereafter. You are such a bright light and are so well-loved here at DU. We're all thinking of you and pulling for you!
My best friend's sister had similar surgery a few weeks ago. She was supposed to be in the hospital for four days and was discharged in two. She's at home now and recuperating very well; I wish the same for you.
Take as much time as you need to recuperate. We'll be here for you when you come back!
Much love,
MIButterfly
Buns_of_Fire
(19,123 posts)ShazzieB
(22,520 posts)I hope the surgery goes as smoothly as possible and is 100% successful -- and I wish you a speedy, smooth, and uneventful recoveryl

mwmisses4289
(3,940 posts)Take care of yourself!
CanonRay
(16,131 posts)murielm99
(32,954 posts)And you have a right to be scared.
LudwigPastorius
(14,615 posts)You'll come through this better than before.
Greywing
(1,187 posts)Initech
(108,569 posts)mnhtnbb
(33,309 posts)BEFORE Ronnie's name was plastered on it, way back in 1973. The name is irrelevant, Peggy, it's a marvelous medical center. You will be in good hands, both during and after the surgery. May the procedure go as planned and your recovery be quick.
I'll be holding good thoughts for you.
montanacowboy
(6,704 posts)and healing thoughts Peggy. It will be ok and you are in good hands.
I prepare for back surgery mid April so I get it!
DelMar dem
(75 posts)It is such a liberating feeling when you realize that the vile invader is gone from your body. You'll be in good hands!
SheltieLover
(79,813 posts)Be well, Peggy, and know how much you are loved and appreciated here. You are a Du treasure!
Spintocat
(19 posts)c-rational
(3,190 posts)1WorldHope
(2,029 posts)I can't wait to read that they got it all.
So many people are praying and wishing and holding you in Love.
GiqueCee
(4,014 posts)... comin' at ya! Been there, done that, got the T-shirt. But my path to a cure wasn't quite as intense as what you're about to go through. Hang in there, Peggy. We're all thinking of you.
democrank
(12,536 posts)You can do this, CaliforniaPeggy.
lark
(26,061 posts)I hope this is smooth and as easy as possible and totally effective in geting all of that out of you. Also wishes you a speedy recovery and no relapses. I had breast cancer 28 years ago, went the aggressive route and never had a recurrence. Wishing the same for you!
IndyPepper
(62 posts)I'm thinking of and praying for you as you go into surgery ... that the doctors will be skillful and that the results will be positive. Despite the name of the hospital, you're in good hands. That's where I went when I shattered my leg in a cycling accident, and the doctors were superb. Please keep us posted ... and try not to worry too much.
Trueblue Texan
(4,406 posts)senseandsensibility
(24,815 posts)I won't tell you not to be scared. But TRY to think positive thoughts and concentrate on how many people are rooting for you!
Deuxcents
(26,583 posts)hamsterjill
(17,526 posts)I will also pray for your doctors and your daughter. Rest, and know that it's all going to be all right.
Stay strong. Let the logical part of your mind take control right now. Know the emotional part of your brain is doing it's job, too. It reminds us to be cautious and to be sure. You've considered all aspects and made the best decision.
Let us know how it all goes when you can, but when you close your eyes as the surgery begins, let your thoughts be on all of the multitude of people who are pulling for you!!!
Sending love and hugs!
mokeyz
(109 posts)Youre going to do just fine - 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
Ms. Toad
(38,541 posts)Fortunately, I haven't had to deal with mets to the lungs - but I've had surgery for two cancers. I wish you all the best!
rubbersole
(11,182 posts)Can't wait for farmer's market photos in a few weeks! 🤗
blogslug
(39,148 posts)❤️❤️❤️
NEOH
(294 posts)Sending good vibes your way for a successful surgery and a speedy recovery!!
BurnDoubt
(1,650 posts)You are a good part of Us.
Have a Good Day.
And Keep Having Them.
Skittles
(171,324 posts)you'll be updating us soon!
Bristlecone
(11,092 posts)ms liberty
(11,187 posts)maspaha
(738 posts)I travelled from Phoenix to have my reconstruction (after breast cancer) surgery there. They took such good care of me and my family! When I was finally able to walk after four days, my daughter (11 years old at the time) walked the halls with me at midnight dribbling her soccer ball. Its oddly one of my favorite memories.
California Peggy, have you in my thoughts and prayers.
LoisB
(12,880 posts)of The Universe protect our Peggy and guide the hands of her surgeon.
gopiscrap
(24,701 posts)when you can, check in and let us know how you are doing-Peace Mike C
ColoringFool
(607 posts)MarineCombatEngineer
(18,044 posts)Know that I and every DU member are sending you thoughts and prayers and don't worry, you've got this.
MLAA
(19,728 posts)❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️
Easterncedar
(6,139 posts)I don't say this glibly: I love you.
You will be in my thoughts tonight and tomorrow and until you post again.
Tomorrow begins the recovery. Have a restful, hopeful night.
Love and peace, Sarah
Tesha
(21,134 posts)There comes a calm as you put yourself in the hands of those you trust.
Best wishes for a a smooth and drama-less surgery and swift recovery.
City Lights
(25,725 posts)And sending best wishes for a successful surgery. Will be thinking of you and watching for an update.
Evolve Dammit
(21,747 posts)WVreaper
(675 posts)Your surgery is what they have trained for.
LuckyCharms
(22,509 posts)My best wishes to you.
godsentme
(225 posts)Like so many have already said, we'll be there with you. You GOT this! Sending you peace and light. ☮️🙌
quaint
(4,967 posts)With all this love, the outcome can only be 100% success.
Please to the universe for a painftree,and speedy recovery!
💗💗💗🌷🌷🌷💗💗💗
blue-wave
(4,948 posts)Wishing you a speedy recovery, we'll see you basking in that California sun soon!
AllaN01Bear
(29,259 posts)CurtEastPoint
(19,987 posts)yankee87
(2,810 posts)from Cleveland
Dunc
(218 posts)ShazamIam
(3,101 posts)countingbluecars
(4,772 posts)Sending positive vibes for a speedy recovery.
COL Mustard
(8,160 posts)For all the happiness youve brought to people here
When you are able, please let us know how you are doing.
redstatebluegirl
(12,814 posts)Biophilic
(6,525 posts)Be well.
HeartsCanHope
(1,646 posts)And love and light to you and your family. My thoughts will be with you all.
Saoirse9
(3,949 posts)and a speedy recovery.
Looks like you're getting good care, that will make it a successful outcome.
LetMyPeopleVote
(178,969 posts)FuzzyRabbit
(2,208 posts)I have had good luck with surgeries since growing old and believe you will too.
fierywoman
(8,565 posts)KitFox
(544 posts)blessing: A sunbeam to warm you, a moonbeam to charm you, a sheltering angel so nothing can harm you. Love and hugs to you dear heart 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
highplainsdem
(61,697 posts)Wishing you a quick, easy recovery, and wonderful nurses and doctors. And good food in the hospital.
Hiawatha Pete
(2,081 posts)I always prefer teaching (University) hospitals myself and think you are in good hands.
Best wishes for a successful treatment/surgery and a full recovery!
kairos12
(13,547 posts)HAB911
(10,419 posts)Raine
(31,162 posts)coming your way. 🙏 💞
synni
(769 posts)It's understandable to be scared, when you are fighting a battle of this magnitude. I pray that your surgery is successful.
Nevilledog
(55,038 posts)Sending all the healing vibes your way.
bluescribbler
(2,504 posts)I send hugs and best wishes for a successful outcome and a speedy recovery.
FemDemERA
(801 posts)Hoping the surgery is completely successful and the healing time short.
Bayard
(29,459 posts)You are well loved!

Warpy
(114,559 posts)Last edited Sun Mar 15, 2026, 07:48 PM - Edit history (1)
I hope it is small, calcified, with clean margins, and is totally resectable.
We'll see you on the other side.
debm55
(59,870 posts)debsy
(901 posts)Catlady123
(42 posts)herding cats
(20,047 posts)You're going to be top on my thoughts and so very many others here. I know this is a hugely important and more than a little scary moment in your life, but I believe with my heart you've got this!
MiHale
(12,934 posts)MorbidButterflyTat
(4,435 posts)Love, strength and healing for you and your family.
Ialwaysvote
(19 posts)PCIntern
(28,261 posts)Thinking of you and wishing you the best for speedy recovery!!
beveeheart
(1,531 posts)to you.
blueknight73
(334 posts)Send you best wishes and positive vibes!
cate94
(3,089 posts)And hoping for the best outcome.
a kennedy
(35,847 posts)🙏🏻 🥰 ♥️ 🙏🏻 🥰 ♥️ 🙏🏻 🥰 ♥️ and well ALL BE HERE FOR YOU!!!!
harumph
(3,220 posts)Dear_Prudence
(1,163 posts)Take care, CaliforniaPeggy.
Figarosmom
(11,576 posts)Hope for best and be well.
OhioBlue
(5,194 posts)dlilafae
(410 posts)... and all the very best. On your side of the rope, pulling...🩵🩷🩵🫶
sinkingfeeling
(57,734 posts)Grumpy Old Guy
(4,293 posts)We'll be waiting to hear the good news of your successful surgery!
Hey Joe
(572 posts)recovery!!
Javaman
(65,625 posts)womanofthehills
(10,954 posts)And this will be behind you. 💕
Jim__
(15,196 posts)DFW
(60,086 posts)We are all waiting to hear that "better than expected" from the ICU unit when it's done
FakeNoose
(41,301 posts)
area51
(12,656 posts)mcar
(45,933 posts)badhair77
(5,173 posts)Sending my prayers for a successful surgery and thorough recovery. Wishing you, your family and your medical team a smooth day. Please keep us updated.
gademocrat7
(11,900 posts)Praying for a good recovery.💙
virgdem
(2,314 posts)And speedy recovery.🤎
edbermac
(16,435 posts)
markodochartaigh
(5,460 posts)She had surgery for lung cancer in 1995 and had a very active 7 years after that. I pray that you will have a successful surgery and a robust recovery.
💚
oldsoldierfadingfast
(227 posts)I read your post earlier today and have spent the day trying to think of words that would give you the most and best encouragement. However, others have said all the things that have come to my mind and have said it better than I would have. I rec them all.
Just know that you are much loved here on DU and all of us are praying for a good outcome. Keep the faith.
Tree Lady
(13,244 posts)And healing.
Justice matters.
(9,720 posts)From Canada with Love
usonian
(24,907 posts)For successful surgery and recovery.
bamagal62
(4,481 posts)And healing prayers!🙏🏻
Pisces
(6,217 posts)LuckyLib
(7,051 posts)orangecrush
(30,050 posts)oldtime dfl_er
(7,175 posts)It will go great!!!
peggysue2
(12,513 posts)You've got this. See/ read you once this is done.
FM123
(10,360 posts)Swede
(39,237 posts)I can't wait to here from you when this is in the rear view mirror.
regnaD kciN
(27,609 posts)MuirHero
(139 posts)DarthDem
(5,460 posts)You got this! Stay strong. We're all with you!
summer_in_TX
(4,150 posts)Bless you, and may your healing be swift afterwards. 🙏
calimary
(89,841 posts)Just trust your doctors and follow their post-op instructions. Its always amazed me what magic medical science can summon at times like this.
And while I dont claim to speak for everybody here, Im certain that all of DU is sending you strength and power for a quick and uneventful recovery.
You WILL get through this. And were solidly with you! Please do keep us updated - when you can.
misanthrope
(9,477 posts)Here's a quick recovery!
applegrove
(131,843 posts)We care about you a great deal. Don't know when I've seen a post rec'd almost 400 times. Be strong. And when you are going through hell - KEEP GOING!.
blue_jay
(255 posts)and prayers tomorrow for a successful outcome plus a few deep, calming breaths and healing prayers.
mahina
(20,607 posts)I will be definitely thinking of you and seeing you happy and well CP!
oasis
(53,596 posts)speedy recovery.👍
Chemical Bill
(3,165 posts)Health and happiness!