After more consideration and review, the family health issue I mentioned remains unchanged.  An endoscopic investigation is to be performed before surgery due to the mass’ location and the complicated nature of its removal.

But the doctors are still in a hurry to get it out, making clear it’s imperative—critical—that it be removed as quickly as possible.

So, as is usually the case with medical problems, it’s hurry up and wait, and remain calm in your panic.

I will be out of town tomorrow visiting the family farm.  As for responding to this ongoing health saga, next week could be interesting if things go south and require my immediate attention (as I suspect the doctors will try their best to get the exploratory session and surgery completed in short order next week).