What a difference a year makes

It's amazing the difference a year makes.












The day I was diagnosed.












A year later...

Thank you Lord for healing my body. I am going into this holiday season with much happier thoughts.

Just to update everyone, I am scheduled for a chest xray, bone scan and 2 CATscans next Wednesday. I'm not sure how long it will be before I get the results, but I will certainly keep everyone posted.

One Year Later

November 2, 2005..."You have cancer." This little sentence was said to me without much emotion. I did get an "I'm sorry" out of my doc, but I think it was more for lack of something to say than really being sincere. His bedside manner lacks a lot to be desired.

I can not believe that one year has passed. First and foremost, I am so thankful to be here one year later and in good health. I have been reflecting on my cancer journey for several days now. I still find it an interesting study in human emotion that while you go through cancer everyone wants in on ALL the details, but once you're "cured" people quickly put it behind them and don't think about it again. Maybe it is a coping mechanism...I'm not one to dwell on the past, but I don't think anyone will realize that it's been a year unless they read this blog. I doubt anyone will be concerned with how I'm coping . Maybe it's not for them to be concerned...maybe it's mine alone to deal with.

As I said before, I've been reflecting on this journey and I've learned a few things about myself along the way.

1. I am much stronger in mind and body than I ever thought.

2. I am pleased that I can comfortably rest in God's plan for my life and be content there even during times of heartache.

3. I want more children. Now with my ability to bear children gone, I am realizing that I am very open to adopting (even older children). I never had issues with adopting, I just didn't have the need. Now I realize there are so many children that just want a family. It's something we're exploring.

Life post-cancer is very similar to life pre-cancer. I was never one to sweat the small stuff, but I really am not concerned with it now. It's cliche, but life is short. Go out and live it! For me it's not about big houses and fancy cars...it's about loving my friends and family and enjoying each day for we aren't promised tomorrow.

Fund Free Mammograms

Here is a link to a website that helps women get mammograms that may not be able to afford it otherwise. All you have to do is go the the website and click the link. It doesn't cost you anything, you won't be put on some mailing list, it's just a second of your time each day to help fight this disease.

Fund Free Mammograms

Thanks!

Pink ribbons everywhere

If you haven't started seeing pink ribbons everywhere I'd be suprised. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I thought I would be annoyed this year seeing the pink ribbons and being reminded for a whole month that I had breast cancer, but I am actually finding it encouraging...go figure.

“1 in 8 women will get breast cancer in her lifetime.”

This is a harsh statistic. If you haven't had a mammogram yet, make your appointment today. Don't make the mistake and think it can't happen to you if you're young. I was 31. Do a self exam--call and make and appointment. Why wait?

Race Day

Yesterday we participated in the Race for the Cure. It was a great day. We walked in the Family Walk which is about 1/2 mile. I would have liked to do the 3 mile walk, but little Emma's legs wouldn't last that long.

It worked out beautifully. Dad and Becky came down and walked with us. There were an estimated 26,000 people there which I think is an amazing turnout.

The opening ceremonies were a bit emotional for me, but I did well not to break down. I could have easily, but thought it wasn't the time or place. I was just thankful to be able to stand there knowing I'm healthy. It was quite sobering though because in front of us was a family with "In Memory Of" signs on their backs for a loved one that died just 6 days ago from this horrible disease. My heart just hurt for them.

There weren't as many pink survivor shirts as I imagined there would be and that was a bit sobering too. In my mind I had visions of a sea of pink survivor shirts, but it was really a sea of white participant shirts instead. I sure hope there were more survivors in the crowd than pink shirts or it will be hard to be encouraged. I wore my pink shirt with pride and saw many women doing so too.

I'm not much for big crowds so this was a stretch for me, but I'm very happy we did it. It seems a fitting end to a rough year. Can you believe that my 1 year anniversary is coming up November 2nd? Almost a year ago I heard the words "you have cancer". I still can't wrap my mind around it most days.

Thanks to everyone who donated in my name for the race. With just the few donations I received, you raised $290 for the cure. It doesn't sound like a lot, but every little bit helps in the fight. Thank you again!!

Here are a couple of pictures from race day.