Art’s spinal tumour (Chondrosarcoma)

Art Abbott was diagnosed just recently during the covit-19 lockdown with Chondrosarcoma a rare tumour in his spine. It was causing him terrible pain, he kept falling and he was no longer able to walk on his own. Chondrosarcoma cancers are resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy so the only treatment available was to operate and remove the tumour.

Art is one of the most caring, kind and thoughtful people I know. He is always visiting and helping others who are sick or lonely. Art is Married to Margaret and is Dad to Rachel and James. He is a much loved Poppa to Caleb, Addison, Alyssa and Mateo.

Art’s tumour was able to be removed after a long 13.5 hour operation on the 7th of May. Along with the tumour a large amount of his spine had to be removed as well and was replaced with a Spinal Prosthesis. His spinal cord needed to be patched up as the tumour had begun to wrap around it. Luckily he appears to still be able to feel his feet and move them like before the operation.

The road to recovery is going to be long after such a huge operation. The surgeon had told him prior to the operation he would be in hospital for months and there will be a lot of rehabilitation required.