Thanks to Siri, we successfully navigated to UCSF, where they readily took us in. Anna took Elsa to the nearby and amazing Golden Gate Park during our appointment. Dr. Berger saw us directly and agreed with the immediacy of the tumor at hand. Because of the location of the 3 cm tumor, in the left frontal lobe, there is risk of impacting Luke’s speech with the removal of the tumor. Speech, intellect, and emotional centers of the brain are all dangerously close to this location.

Because of this they will use brain mapping during surgery. Dr. Berger “has extensive expertise in intraoperative mapping of the brain to identify the sites of motor, sensory, and language function and thereby avoid their involvement or injury during surgery”. This means they will basically remove the tumor while Luke is “awake”. Another neurologist will interact with Luke during the surgery to help identify when they are close to those locations and steer clear of them.

A quick hour later we were able to meet back up with Elsa and Anna and tour the park ourselves, which allowed for some fresh air and leg stretching – always a good thing. The park is absolutely beautiful and full of a variety of attractions – a great kid’s park, an aquarium, museums, greenhouses, tea gardens, etc.

Dr. Berger’s office indicated that they would likely check him in later in the afternoon to secure a bed and get the ball rolling for surgery as soon as it could be scheduled. We spent the majority of the afternoon there and grabbed some lunch before heading back to rest and collect a bag for the hospital check-in. At 3:30 they let us know they were ready and an hour later we checked into his new temporary digs, which offer beautiful views from the 8th floor. The nurse on duty was wonderful, as I imagine they all will be.

An important note is that Luke is feeling good right now – with a 0 pain level.  He is in good spirits, though we are all still reeling with the news, he purports that he will be fine on the other side as well. We all must believe with all our hearts that this will be the case. He is currently scheduled for surgery tomorrow (Wednesday), but we are prepared for anything. One day at a time.

Again, we can’t thank you all for your support and love enough. It means the world and will surely help the outcome. Pictured above is a heart cloud that appeared as I rounded a corner on a quick bike ride I took the afternoon before our departure from home. Clear evidence that we are seeing and feeling the love flowing our way. Thank you!