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Thursday, October 15, 2015

1 in 8

Thank you for coming.
This is a very important post for me to write...
 a difficult post to share.

Today is National Mammography Day.
Make your appointment today if you haven't had one yet this year.
***********No excuses***********

1 in 8 women in the U.S. will develop 
invasive breast cancer 
in her lifetime. 

****************************************************************************
Cancer 
is not contagious.
but 
you can catch it
 through early detection.

****************************************************************************
I did.

I'm 47 years old.
I'm a wife, a mom, a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a friend, the owner of this happy little company and
I am 1 in 8.

On August 17, just 2 months ago, 
I did a self check at home and I found a lump in my left breast.
 (and then I felt all of the blood in my body drain into my feet.)
I got in to see my doctor that afternoon and was told I needed a diagnostic mammogram
and ultrasound to determine what "the mass" was. 
When I called from my doctor's office to get my appointment, they were scheduling in 
mid September
but the scheduler told me I could call each day to see if there were any cancellations.
no way could I wait that long
I called 4-5 times a day every day.

On August 21st, I had the mammogram and ultrasound.
(Thank you from the bottom of my heart to whoever it was that cancelled that day!)
It was determined that I would need to have a biopsy to determine what this "mass" was,
 and I'd also need a second biopsy on a "suspicious looking" lymph node the radiologist saw in my armpit during the ultrasound.
We scheduled the procedure 
right then,
and then I went home and waited.

On August 28th, I had 2 needle biopsies,
one on the mass and one on the suspicious looking lymph node.
Then I went home 
and waited 
and tried not to think about it.

On September 1st my doctor called to inform me 
my lymph node was clear (phew!)
but 
the 1.5 cm (1/2 inch) peanut-sized mass was 
grade 1 invasive ductal carcinoma.
cancer.

My very first thought was 
I don't want to do this!

and I cried for a minute because the words really stung 
and
they confirmed a truth that I didn't want, 
but then they sank in and I pulled myself together...
grade 1- you caught this really early
*I am lucky. So very lucky* 

"You have cancer."
Certainly they are frightening words to hear, 
but I didn't feel fear. 
I honestly felt really pissed off and super inconvenienced 
and truthfully it hurt my feelings.

Yes, it was really crappy news to get, 
but of all the crappy news I could have received, 
this was the BEST possible crappy news!
I caught cancer...early.
grade 1- let's do this

On September 3rd, I met my surgeon.
I told her I didn't have cancer but my breast did. 
I told her I was mad and inconvenienced, but grateful that this is only grade 1 because this is fixable.
 She looked me in the eyes and said, 
"This is curable"

Her correction didn't truly resonate with me until almost a week later...
"This is curable"
She doesn't always get to say that. 
Telling a cancer patient you can cure them is probably the second most awesome thing a surgeon gets to say!
I can't wait for her to say she got it and it's over!

Because of my young age 
(oh, you have no idea how much I like to say that *wink*)
and the fact that my mom had breast cancer 9 years ago
(which was discovered in a mammogram that at the time she was told she didn't need,
but thankfully she scheduled it anyway because it revealed 3 masses that no one knew existed)
it was strongly recommended I have genetic testing 
to determine if I was BRCA gene positive. 

It's a simple blood test 
that takes 3-4 weeks to get the results.
So I did it.
and then I waited.

Initially, the type of surgery I will have was totally my choice. 
I could have a lumpectomy 
or mastectomy 
or a double mastectomy.
It's up to me-it's completely my choice.
But if I tested positive for the gene mutation, 
my choices would be erased
 There would be no question...I'd have a double mastectomy.
But there was more to it than just that:
If I tested positive for the gene mutation,
it would mean my family was at risk too...
my kids, my brother, my nieces.

(yes, men CAN get breast cancer too!)

While I waited, I assembled my team. 
(Yes, I need a "team" of doctors who I now refer to as my Special Forces.)
I have a brilliant cutting-edge surgeon who is one of the top in the country, 
and who is doing amazing things that will make early treatment so much better and faster and easier! 
Truly amazing things are coming soon!
I have an awesome radiation oncologist who I think looks like Mike Meyers, and is the perfect blend of science nerd, math genius and cool doctor,
and
 I have a medical oncologist who is just plain amazing, appreciates my spirit and sense of humor, and makes me laugh.
I am in excellent hands.

I'm not afraid of cancer, 
but cancer should be very, very afraid of me and my Special Forces.
Together we WILL kick cancer's butt.

On September 25th, I got my genetic test results.
Surrounded by my girlfriends, 
on a spectacular fall day in a beautiful place,
I got the call I'd been waiting for...
my genetic test came back negative!
I do not have the BRCA gene mutation 
which is HUGE!
for everyone!

***all the waiting for answers has been the worst part of this for me***

I can handle the 'what is', 
it's the 'what if's' 
that can make my head spin,
that make it so darn difficult to know which decisions to make,
that make it hard to make any definite plans.
and anyone who knows me even a little bit, knows I am a planner.

I still feel inconvenienced because let's face it, 
cancer IS inconvenient. 
I'm still a little bit mad too.
I don't deserve this but I have this to deal with.

But instead of hurt feelings, I now feel blessed.
I caught this early!
I will be o.k!
 And honestly, it could be something sooo much worse.

For me it's about perspective...
My children are safe and healthy and happy. Thank you God
My family is not in harm's way. Thank you God
My awesome husband has been by my side every step of the way. Thank you God  
I have an amazing team of doctors who are going to take care of me and cure me. Thank you God
And that's all that really matters to me.

There are a lot of things I don't think I'd be able to do, 
but I can do this. 
I've got this.

On October 28th I will have my lumpectomy surgery.
more waiting, but it's almost over.
My story is still unfolding.
I'll let you know how it goes.
Promise :)

Please join me right here tomorrow
for another very special post. 
It's super important to me that you be here for it.
It comes from my most grateful heart.

Until then, 
let's finish today the same we started it...

1 in 8 women in the U.S. will develop 
invasive breast cancer 
in her lifetime. 

Today is National Mammography Day.
Make your appointment today if you haven't had one yet this year.
***********No excuses***********


75 comments:

Nancy Thomas said...

You are facing this with much courage and grace. Prayers for your recovery.

Claire said...

Such a great post Michele - in this case, negative is such a fantastic word. Wishing you a speedy and complete recovery and sending lots of hugs xx

Greta said...

What an incredibly written post, Michelle. You've shared yourself with us in such an unselfish way that just may save more lives! Being a nurse I've seen lots of people who could have been saved, but refused to be tested. I know you've got this & I'm so happy you tested negative & that it's grade I curable--yah!!! Take care of yourself & remember so many of us are sending positive thoughts as you make decisions & progress with your treatment. Sometimes an inconvenience can turn into a blessing. Warm hugs from Oregon!

LauraJane:) said...

BRAVO!! Thank you for this personal post, Michelle! A positive attitude is just the start to overcoming this "lump" in the road of your life journey. Three very important women in my life found their lumps early, as you did, and all have been healed!
Praying you continue to keep on the positive side:)

Kristie Goulet said...

Such an well written post, Michele!!! Even though I heard your story before your post, it still brought tears to my eyes. I am praying for you sweet friend. ((HUGS))

Angie Tieman said...

Hugs to you, you amazingly strong woman.

Susi said...

What an amazing - heart-wrenching - post, Michele. I am glad to hear all the great news in this post, and I just KNOW that your lumpectomy surgery will be a success and you can put this very scary life event behind you. I'm also grateful that you put such a powerful message out there to all women (and yes, men too!). The power of positive thinking, friendship & love, and prayer will get you through this, and you have my thoughts & prayers to add to them all.

Lisaerica said...

Wow, before getting in the shower today I was reading as many emails as I could. I'm spooked out because that's what I'm doing today, having my yearly mammo. Thank you for being so open and sharing your story, prayers coming your way.

Lori Kobular said...

Thank you for sharing your story and for making more people aware of Breast Cancer!

MelissaF said...

Thank you for reaching out and telling your incredible, brave and inspiring story, and for heightening the awareness of breast cancer through your blog. I will keep you in my prayers for strength, speedy healing and comfort.

Katie Gehring said...

Michelle, what a brave and inspiring post! Thank you for sharing your story. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Ericka Strange said...

Sending prayers your way.

Jean said...

Michelle - good for you for doing self exams and for getting in to the doctor. Too many women don't do this! Early detection is key ! You will get through this! How do I know? I HAVE HAD BREAST CANCER TWICE! Both times it was caught on a mammogram. I have had the needle biopsies, the waiting, radiation, and yes, even a mastectomy. The second time was 18 years ago!!!!!! I would be happy to talk to you or anyone else as you go through this! THe American Cancer Society has wonderful information and women who will also come and talk to you. Please feel free to contact me - mjmarmo@comcast.net THinking of you!

Vicki Dutcher said...

YOU are an inspiration! Thank you for sharing your personal experience - If I took anything away from this it's "I don't have cancer, my breast does" -- Good for you getting checked and persevering - you are your best advocate! Sounds like the Super Forces are taking amazing care of you and I look forward to hearing the GOOD NEWS that they got it all! Prayers are being sent your way~

Shelly said...

As hard as it was, I'm so glad you shared with us. You are a STRONG woman...YOU got this! ;) If you need anything, please don't hesitate to ask! I'll be thinking of you and sending lots and lots of hugs! <3

Karen B. said...

You are an inspiration and such a fighter for sure. Lead those Special Forces dear!

Karen B. said...

You are an inspiration and such a fighter for sure. Lead those Special Forces dear!

AJ said...

I had IDC also, and found my lump- I wish more women would understand the need for self checks! clear nodes means you can escape chemo yes? You got this, loved you comment about my breast has cancer, I don't. :) if you want/need to chat, let me know!

Kelly Griglione said...

I love that you have a very public platform to share your story and encourage untold numbers of women. You often hear of people not understanding God's will. It's times like this that make you think, "ah-ha." Way to take the charge, Michele! Big hugs to you!!

Laura Davis said...

You are such a brave woman Michele that I admire very much. If anyone can beat this it is you. Your toughness and positivity is amazing, you are truly an inspiration and I am so honored that you are my friend. Your Colorado family is always hear for you! Huge healing hugs💗
Laura

Catherine Pooler said...

You are a strong, incredible woman, Michele. I'm proud to know you and I'm proud to call you my SISTAH.
LOVE YOU!

joscelyne cutchens said...

My prayers are with you Michele <3

ScrapaDiddle said...

Praise Jesus that you found this early! We will pray for your ease in this and quick recovery. I'm old enough to remember when any sign of cancer was met with misery. Now, they can and do cure it everyday. In 1998 I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and I agree with you that the waiting for test results was miserable. You're going to kick cancer butt!

cm said...

Michele, it took strength and courage to share this with us, and even more strength and courage to deal with what has entered your life...or, to use your words, your breast's life. Thank you for sharing your personal experience; for being an inspiration; for showing perseverance and resilience. May the Super Forces continue to look after you, and like everyone else, I look forward to hearing good news! Prayers and hugs coming your way!
Hugs~c

Deepti said...

Loads of love and hugs Michele! You are amazing and a strong woman, I am so glad that you were able to detect the cancer early. Praying for your quick healing! Your post is so beautifully written that I am sure it will inspire a lot of us to be proactive towards breast cancer. You are the best!! Love

Marianne said...

Such a great and well-written post, Michelle. Sounds like you are a strong woman with a positive attitude that will definitely get you through this. I'm so happy for you and your family that you don't have the gene mutation. I know what it's like to realise you've detected cancer in an early stage. My husband had a tumor removed from his rectum in June. It was detected during a colonoscopy, the last in a series of tests that our doctor had ordered for a complete check-up (after making a full recovery from a heart operation - new aortic valve - last year. The lymph nodes turned out to be clean but because they found some suspicious cells in the fat tissue surrounding the recturn he did need chemotherapy. Next Tuesday, he will be starting his 4th round (out of 8), but he should be just fine after the treatment is finished in January. Like you, my husband has a very positive attitude and all of his friends and acquaintances are surprised to see him smiling all the time...
I'll be sending positive thoughts your way!

Tiffany said...

Thank you for saying this. Thank you for being brave enough and caring about us enough to step out and say it just this way. You are amazing! I'm praying for you.

Unknown said...

Michele: Thank You for sharing your very personal diagnosis and story! Please make certain that your Surgeon has the Technical Skills and the most Current Computer Guided Technology to perform your Lumpectomy only once. It is imperative that they remove the Mass completely and that they achieve a Full Circular Margin with your Mass in the Center! Talk to them about their Surgical Techniques, and whether they perform a CT Scan (during and after the Lumpectomy) to check all the Margins on this Mass, so you will not have to undergo another Repeat Lumpectomy on that Mass. Sometimes Masses can have Tentacles and can be spread out and not so centrally concentrated. It is wonderful that you felt your Mass and followed up so aggressively! Please keep in mind that many Masses are never felt (or Palpable) and hopefully show up on your Yearly Mammogram. But some, like I have had, cannot be seen on my Mammograms because I have very Dense Breasts. I follow up my Mammogram with a Bi-lateral Breast MRI every year. The Breast MRI might be loud, uncomfortable, and clostraphobic, but it is so precise and a good Diagnostic Tool for your Breast Radiologist to use in comparison to your Mammograms. Don't be afraid to schedule your Mammogram LIVE, where your Radiologist Reads its immediately, and then follow it up on the spot with a Breast Ultrasound (right on the spot). Also, please keep in mind that the BRCA Gene Test doesn't mean that you won't get Breast Cancer nor that you will. It is being used too much right now to argue for very painful, and not necessary, Radical Breast Masectomies. Sometimes just a Lumpectomy is needed. Each Women, with the assistance and guidance of her Doctors and Family, must decide her Treatment Options that will work for her! Please do not base your Treatments on what a Celebrity has done!!

Lisa Petrella said...

Michele, you are amazing! I believe in you and your Special Forces...and there's no doubt about it, girl....you've got this!!! I am thinking of you and sending you hugs and strength and positive energy!!! If you need anything, please don't hesitate to contact me. Love you!!!!

Heather North said...

Michele, I sit here with tears in my eyes as I read your story again. I'm honored to have been there when you got the news that you have choices, and I am so grateful to you for sharing your heart and story with all of us. <3 Cancer messed with the wrong woman and I am ready to party with you when you get the all clear. In the meantime, I will pray for you that the treatment process does not "inconveniece" you too much and that your 5oz tastes like 20. ;)

conil said...

What a courageous and wonderful post...you're my hero. So glad you and your Special Forces are deciding to kick the s%$t out of this disease. My hope is that you've inspired others to get off the fence and get their mammograms NOW! I'll be back tomorrow, but more importantly, I'll be sending positive, healing prayers to you and your Forces on October 28th. Remember, when you need it, we'll be here.

~amy~ said...

Michele...thank you for this. For being so honest and open about your situation. I'm sending you super big hugs.

Allison Cope said...

Hugs to you Michele! I, like your Mom, asked to have a mammogram done early (before 40). I don't have any family history with breast cancer but felt I should have my first one done early. The first double squishing was painful but manageable but when they asked me to come back to the machine to have my left breast done at 3 more angles, I knew they had found something. I was taken to the ultrasound suite within 15 mins and the tech let me watch the screen. There is was, a 9mm void on the screen. I was terrified! Being only 37 at the time, my life flashed before my eyes. I was told right there and then, that they didn't think it was cancerous but I go for a mammogram and an ultrasound every 6 months to see if anything changes. Thank you for your honesty! I tell everyone my story, even though it doesn't involve cancer, it's every woman's right to know their own body and take care of it. Sending virtual hugs out to you today! Best wishes for your surgery and a speedy recovery!!!!

cghundley said...

Thinking of you and hoping
all will be what you want!
Good luck.
Carla from Utah

Darlene S. said...

Thank you for sharing this. Good luck on the 28th and sending prayers your way!

Jodie Stoddard said...

Thank you for sharing. You tell your story so beautifully. I wish you the best of luck and a speedy recovery.

Cathy said...

Thank you for sharing this! Best wishes for a wonderful outcome and a speedy recovery, Cathy x

Karenladd said...

Oh Michelle, as I read your post (every word of it) my heart dropped when I read about your positive diagnosis for ductal carcinoma because it was so similar to what I went through about 4 years ago. Fortunately, after they did a lumpectomy, they determined it wasn't cancer, but was a ductal papilloma instead. I had gone for a mammogram and had almost skipped it but when I had my flu shot that year, the nurse made the appt. for me in mammography. I had no lump, no symptoms...and a happy ending. Had I not had the papilloma removed, it could very well have become cancerous..so I am ever so grateful to that nurse who insisted I get my mammogram. Prayers for you in your medical journey and hoping that you have the best possible outcome and thank you for sharing this very important message.

Lisa's Creative Niche said...

This is beautifully written and thank you so much for sharing your personal story on this. I'm sending many prayers hugs and positive vibes your way!

Kathy Mc said...

Your post showed up in my Bloglovin' and I was locked in to reading through its entirety. You are such a strong and positive woman, and it shows. So glad you are happy with your Special Forces team because they sat that is half the battle. Thanks for sharing your story and reminding others to not delay mammograms. Praying for you as you beat this and wishing you a great recovery!

Unknown said...

Wow. Thank you for sharing. I turned 50 this year & promised myself that this would be my year to take care of me. Well, my boys got sick. Both diagnosed with Chrons. My grandmother got sick. Might be colon cancer. Need to move her out of her home. Work is busier than ever... Excuses excuses. Putting a reminder in my phone to make the appointment Monday. Will be thinking of you on the 28th. You are too feisty for cancer. It doesn't stand a chance. Hugs!

Charity Morris-Chamberlain said...

Thank you for sharing this with us! I will be keeping you and your family in my prayers and pray you have a speedy recovery after your lumpectomy surgery! It's so wonderful you were able to catch this early because so many ignore their body.

Kim S said...

Mammogram scheduled!

Prayers sent up for you and your family, with many more to follow!

I am in awe of the fact that in the midst of your stress and anxiety, you have the courage and have taken the time to make a difference in all of our lives. You are an amazing woman.

Lynn said...

Michele, you are a beautiful woman...through and through. I have no doubt that your strength will get you through this. You certainly have Special Forces and you are one hell of a leader for them! Thank you for sharing your heart with us. You are helping not only yourself but so many others. Thank you for being you. Being selfless during a difficult time. I adore you my friend and have absolutely no doubt you will kick cancer out the door. xoxo

Annette Allen said...

Michele thank you for sharing. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Big hugs my friend.

lisa808 said...

Thank you for sharing your story. My best wishes for your surgery and recovery.

Tara Cardwell said...

Sending you a huge hug from across the pond. Will keep everything crossed for you on the 28th. Be strong and fight on. You got this.
Tara
x

cma21317 said...

I have (2005) gone through this with very similar stats. I had a lumpectomy and radiation. They also performed and oncoDX test on my tumor. It showed that Chemo would not be of any significant help sorry I forgot the exact wording it was so long ago. I was on tomoxifen for 5 years. I am fine feeling great and am over the 10 year hump!!! YOU CAN DO THIS!! I will say it has taken a long time not to be always thinking about it. I HATE October. I HATE pink. I HATE being a member of this club. BUT again I am fine, feel great, and have a better appreciation for what is really important in life.

Virginia L. said...

Thank you a MILLION for sharing this powerful and personal journey with us, Michelle (I had no idea this was going on this summer..). I got very teary toward the end of this post. YOU are amazing. And yes, I am so very thankful to God that you are gonna be OK! I will be displacing the badge in my post proudly! You are so loved and admired, my friend! Sending huge hugs to you, BRAVE girl!

Virginia L. said...

....I meant" displaying" the badge! xoxo

Macarena said...

Thank you Michele for sharing this extremely personal post and your strenght and courage.
You're an amazing girl who deserve all the best.
Sure you didn't deserve this so now it's time to kick its ass off your breast!
Stay strong and take care.
Huuuugssss <3

Macarena said...

Thank you Michele for sharing this extremely personal post and your strenght and courage.
You're an amazing girl who deserve all the best.
Sure you didn't deserve this so now it's time to kick its ass off your breast!
Stay strong and take care.
Huuuugssss <3

Kate said...

Aw Michele sending you the biggest of hugs and lots of love.
Kate XX

Sonya said...

Big hugs to you, Michele! Sending lots of positive thoughts and prayers your way!

Krystie Lee said...

Michelle, I'm so sorry that you have to endure this. Nobody knows unless they've been there. Big hugs to you, my dear! I'm SO glad that you have a great prognosis. I think as we survivors advocate and share information, it's important to note that the public thinks that nobody dies from breast cancer, that's it's not really a problem anymore. It's so critical that we educate the public that 20-30% of our sisters diagnosed with early stage cancer, get treatment, still go on to develop distant metastasis and progress to Stage 4. Also, some breast cancers are just more aggressive, even caught very early. I had grade 3, it has nothing to do with tumor size or when it's caught, it's just the biology of the cancer and how rapidly is reproduces. There is still so much we don't know about breast cancer. Our Stage 4 sisters, especially, need research and treatment options. I'm so glad you're sharing your story! You will undoubtedly make an impact on the lives of your friends and remind them to make their health a priority! <3

Silke Ledlow said...

Michele, I'm so proud of you for standing strong and tall to fight this cancer! My thoughts and prayers are with you! Big hugs ~Silke~

Lee said...

You are amazing. Just that! And I'm so honored to know you and I know that you will indeed kick cancer's butt!!! <3

Alyssa S said...

Sending big hugs and healing thoughts your way!! You have already shown what a strong woman you are, but now you get to prove it to that little inconvenience named cancer - dirty little *%&$. Thanks for sharing your story and prompting me to check myself! {{hugs}}

Tracie Pond said...

You are amazing and will be in my thoughts. Stay strong <3

Benzi said...

Michele, I saw an article on Splitcoaststampers about you and that awful, dreaded cancer. I had to come read and what a blessing you are to stand so strong. Oh, the waiting for test results can be so horrible.....I understand your thinking about it being the worst part. With your positive attitude, your family and Special Forces, and God, I see a wonderful recovery for you. Sending big hugs. You're amazing!

Ingrid said...

Michele, thanks for sharing this. I'll be thinking of you on the 28th, and look forward to hearing more about your story as it unfolds. I love your spirit and know you'll tackle anything that gets thrown your way! :)

Loly Borda said...

Thank you so much for sharing your story! You are so brave and thank God for early detection. You are in my prayers, please keep us posted. Big hugs!

Unknown said...

Thanks for sharing! YOU ARE NOT ALONE! !!!! I'm a 2 time cancer survivor! Breast cancer both times. I've been cancer free since 2003! I'm NOT going to lie, it's tough, but YOU CAN BEAT THIS MONSTER! Hugs to you. You'll be a survivor too! !!!!!

Cris G. said...

I wish you all the best fighting this battle, so good you found this early in grade 1! That is the spirit to deal with it - kick cancer's a...! I will be thinking of you on October 28th and sending positive vibes.
Your story is very similar to mine - same age (back then), almost same mother's story - with the difference that I don't like to talk about it... but I agree that sharing can help other sistahs and save lives.
Please remember that the self check examination is very important as most women know they have cancer because they find a lump, but an yearly mammogram is more important because it can also detect a cancer that can't be felt, like mine. I was diagnosed from clusters of microcalcifications that appeared in a routine mammogram.

D- said...

Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful story AND for the reminder that we need to look after ourselves and those whose lives we touch. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I'm so glad you found it early.
Sending healing hugs,
Dawn
DesignsByDragonfly.blogspot

maria f. said...

Whoa - that certainly stinks. But I love your attitude. What an inspiration you are. I'll be thinking of you on the 28th and sending lotsa positive energy your way. Just consider all of us your Special Forces supply line. And hey, you've got this!

Unknown said...

I have now been cancer free for 20 months with virtually an identical story and diagnosis as yours. Thank you so much for talking about being MAD. I am still so angry about cancer and every time I hear about someone else diagnosed, I get furious at cancer all over again. I am grateful that, like you, this was caught early. Like you, I am grateful for the promising prognosis (although no guarantees). And I understand that breast cancer is complicated because there are so many different breast cancers, but this just has to stop. No woman should be dying from this. So - thank you for talking about the anger. Perhaps there is power in fury - enough to try and make a change like you are with your self exam initiative!

Robin Cooper said...

Thank you for sharing your story. I could especially relate to the "anger." I remember when I visited my surgeon I was very angry--sort of at him because he was going to be cutting into me--but I suspect it was also fear and the inconvenience. Unlike you, I was very afraid. Afraid that I wouldn't be able to be strong enough to go through treatment. But, Jesus was good and got me through it. I didn't need to be strong. He was for me. Thank you Jesus! Your sharing helped me to think about my anger and what it was about. As I write this, I am currently waiting for a biopsy to see if I have endometrial cancer. At first I was crazy nervous, but just like last time, Jesus is handling this for me and I'm calm and have peace about whatever the results are going to be. Thank you again Jesus!

Unknown said...

Praying for you today.

judy said...

This is a beautiful post that reveals your strong heart and spirit. You will get through this!! I was exactly in the same place 10 years ago. You are doing all the right things by assembling your team and your support system. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers!!

Unknown said...

Thanks for sharing. I have walked the walk with lung cancer (never smoked). Keep that fighting spirit. My last day of radiation, my ENTIRE family had a surprise party for me, It was amazing. Past my 5 year mark. Best wishes, and many prayers for you and your family, hang in there!

Marybeth said...

Late in reading this but wanted to let you know you will be in my prayers. Beautiful written post!

Anonymous said...

Thanks for sharing this! Sending lots of love and health.

OH Babs said...

Thank you for sharing your inspirational story. We learn from one another and give each other courage and strength. Fight the fight. Blessings, Barbara

Debbie Gaetz said...

blessings to you for the soldier and warrior that you are, and the communicator that you are. you've got this! thank you for the words of encouragement and urgency to get that mammogram. I've been stalling to make my appointment; I'm making it tomorrow (Monday)! thank you!