We have the results of the biopsy and it is an osteoscarcoma.  That is cancer.  They are debating now how much time he might have left until the bone is completely compromised and he can't eat anymore.  Then we will have to make the decision to put him down.  In the mean time I now find myself faced with a few minor issues.  The first one was that his halter will no longer go over the bump.  So I have started using his hurricane collar for leading and tieing and since he is so good that is working out well.  Second problem:  Both vets agree that I need to keep him on his usual schedule including riding him as long as I can.  Problem with that is the bump has gotten so big that the connection of the metal bit to the headstall is impinging on the bump.  Hackamores of course will not work because of the bump.  Does anyone have any idea of something else I could use that is soft.  I once years ago saw an Indian photo of a horse with some sort of largeish rope being used as a bit.  Has anyone seen that or know where I might get some information on one.  He is very responsive to weight and legs and voice but he is just use to the bit in his mouth and acts stupid when there is nothing there.  He once road for almost 30 minutes, responding to everything before I discovered that the bit was no longer attached to the headstall.  He just seems to need the bit in there.  I would appreciate any help I can get.  Thank you all for listening.  This has taken me a few days to come to terms with.  

I'm sorry to hear that it's cancer.  I can't think of any sort of bit arrangement that would work with his bump, but as 48northfarm suggested, maybe he would enjoy learning to go bridle-less.  Maybe you could use that hurricane collar for riding too.

 I'm sure this has been a shock for you.  My heart goes out to you.  Enjoy the time you have left with him and make lots of memories.

 I'm so sorry to hear your news.  I'd agree to perhaps try using the collar to ride him with.  The other alternative is to teach him to neck rein with a neck rope -- you can use a dressage whip in one hand as a guide for his head.  I hope that you can share many hugs and love with him while you have the chance.

perhaps it is a good time for you to learn more ground work and enjoy teaching him some tricks??

i spend alot of time doing groundwork with my horse and it is very satisfying advancing him along and i think he like it too.