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Large Mass in Abdomen

JOSEPH (Mathew's Twin)
Out of work
5pm 2-23
MOM
I’ll call in 5 minutes.
He has a large mass in his 
                                                                              abdomen. They need to biopsy.
  2-23-14

It’s pressing on all of his organs.
Can’t tell where it started.
2-23-14


Being admitted to ZHills hospital, 
will keep you posted.
2-23-14


Dr says from scan, more 
                                                                              likely than not, cancer but may
be one of several kinds. He will
end up at Moffitt.
2-23-14


Room 3123

2-23-14

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