Week of October 22, 2007

Well, this has been a most interesting week...last couple of weeks actually.

First, let me tell you why I've decided to be so public about this upcoming battle. I know that when there is a crisis, facts can get a little twisted. I began writing everything down from my very first doctor visit because I didn't want to forget the facts and everything that was being told to me. I asked Dave to read my notes to make sure that I had them right and to see if I was missing anything. I thought by creating this blog I would be able to communicate better with everyone about what was going on...I know sometimes people don't want to ask personal questions and sometimes they just don't know what to say or do. Also, because we have extended family members we may not be able to call everyone and we also don't want to forget to let family and friends know the latest information. I thought this would be the best way to communicate with everyone. Please know...THIS IS NOT MEANT TO REPLACE MY TALKING TO ANYONE OR IN ORDER TO AVOID ANYONE.

That all being said:
Right now all we know for sure is that there is a diagnosis for breast cancer. We know that one lump is benign and one lump is malignant (cancer). We know how big they are. That is all we know for certain. What we don't know is if it has advanced to lymph nodes (MRI was done Tues and results should be available before my first appointment with the oncologist.) We don't know what stage it is (will know after oncologist visit.) We don't know what treatment will be or what options I will have (will know options after oncologist visit.)

What everyone should know:
Though I will rely on a team of medical doctors, I trust my Lord and Savior to walk with me through this valley. We have never been guaranteed a life free from pain and heartache, however He has guaranteed our salvation. I trust that the battle is won though I don't look forward to the valley I have to walk through for a little while before reaching the moutain top. I covet your prayers for me and my family. We have told the two little ones but they don't understand what effects cancer will have on our family. I suppose they will soon.