Thinking outside the box – UPDATE
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Thinking outside the box – UPDATE

ByJudi Zitiello

The past few weeks have been an emotional roller coaster ride for my family, friends and me. Confirming that the malignant adenocarcinoma had returned to the head of my reconstructed pancreas and having my oncologist tell us without treatment we have just months would send any human being to a deep dark place. Having survived…

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Another miracle?

ByJudi Zitiello

The next thought after your doctor shares with you the terrifying news that you have a mass or a tumor your mind goes on defense mode. Or at least that is what happened for me. A defense mechanism seemed to take over. “Surely it is not cancer”. “Can I die?” Maybe you were like me…

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The Infection…

ByJudi Zitiello

“Less than three percent of patients undergoing Whipple surgery contract infection.” said our surgeon, Dr. Asbun. Just seven days after discharge from a six day Whipple surgery recovery stay, I was rushed to the Mayo ER with a 101 temperature and general overall feeling of lethargy. The drain, placed in my side to remove excess…

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Jude’s Dudes and more…..God’s Love

ByJudi Zitiello

The support we have seen from family, friends and even strangers is mind blowing! Sunday before surgery, the Jude’s Dudes group left The Players Championship final round to come to Mayo and show their support. We had 42 Dudes’ show up! Fr. Frank was making his daily visit to my hospital room when everyone showed…

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Monday, May 12th…the surgery

ByJudi Zitiello

“Father, I dwell in Your secret place. I say of you that You are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. Surely, You will deliver me from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. You will cover me with Your feathers, and under Your wings I will find refuge. Your…

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The surgical consult….

ByJudi Zitiello

The week before surgery was surreal. Our new little “Jude” came home from the hospital, The 2014 Players Championship was literally being held in our backyard, my Father in law – Lugi was visiting as he always did for the tournament and of course for the birth of his fifth Great-Grandchild, and our neighbors and…