My apologies for the late update. Somehow it is already February. I have to be honest though, the deeper I get into this cancer journey, the more difficult writing blog updates become. Anyway, you are here for an update...so here goes! :)
On January 9th I had another CT-Scan of my chest, abdomen, and my pelvis area. Due to the MRI back in November that showed growth (brain and bone), I could only assume there would be additional growth or new mets on this CT-Scan. We met with my oncologist the following day....to confirm growth and she immediately begin talking about my next step. I was grateful going into the meeting "prepared". It somehow made the news more manageable, if that makes any sense. I wasn't going to dwell on the news, I was ready to hear what we were going to do about it. Strength and courage....two words I know I embody.
My oncologist knew in advance I wanted to begin the next step as soon as possible, so the day of our meeting (Tuesday, January 10th), I started another chemotherapy protocol. It is similar to my other chemo protocol, in that I go to the hospital 4 out of 5 days a week (3 different chemo drugs this time around, instead of 2), and then I have two weeks off.
On a side note, I also had another brain MRI on Tuesday, January 10th. Despite getting not so great news that my cancer had spread or grown in certain areas the day before....I did come out with some wonderful news on Tuesday. My brain radiologist popped her head in and said my brain MRI from Tuesday showed ALL my brain lesions are gone!!
Fast forward to February...I just finished my second round of chemotherapy and am now beginning my two weeks off. We are leaving for Miami again tomorrow....hoping the sun and warmth will heal my soul (as well as cherish some family fun time).
Peace, Love & Miracles
Necklace one of my girlfriends wears as a daily reminder. xo |
Dawn, I've been following your blog and praying for you and your family all along, but never posted a comment or encouraging word. But my son-in-law (Kari's husband) was diagnosed with cancer on August 1st. Since then I've come to realize how much it means to him to receive cards, posts on his CaringBridge site, and lots of messages of encouragement and support during this battle. Just thinking these things isn't enough. I need to say them to the person who needs to hear them!
ReplyDeleteSo . . . just wanted to let you know you're in my thoughts and prayers, and in the prayers of many at our church. God has you wrapped in his loving arms and will protect you and carry you through this.
Love to you and your family.
Carol Cain
You are the definition of strength and courage, Dawn. And you are in my thoughts and prayers...enjoy that Miami sunshine!
ReplyDeleteLove,
Lisa Rubin
Dawn....you have amazing strength! ....which reminds me that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"
ReplyDelete(Phil. 4:13). He truly has you in His arms! Have a warm and wonderful visit to Miami! Love to all of your family.
Cathy Wildenradt
Mrs. Wildenradt,
DeleteYour message brings me much comfort and a cheerful smile to my face. Love to you as well.
Dawn ~ one fo my fav verses is with God all things r possible and i really believe that ~ Stay strong u will beat this ... Enjoy the warmth in Miami ~ Julie Choate Crutcher
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Julie!
DeleteDawn, I have been following your blog from the beginning praying for you and yours! I really seemed to have forgotten alot of details from my school years but I will never forget the smile you had on your face nearly everyday!! You had such warmth within you! You truly are a beautiful person inside and out! Cathy is completely right, the Lord has you in his arms everyday!! Keep those positive thoughts flowing and know that so many are thinking and praying for you!!
ReplyDeletePeace and love to you and your family!!
Chris Braden Lake
Thank you so much, Chris!
Delete