Hurry up and Wait

August 10th 2016

   A good friend of mine suggested that I write a blog to update friends and family.  I too thought this was a great idea - so here I go! :)

   Just to get everyone caught up, on July 29th at 9:35 am - Dr. Grubb shared the results of my biopsy.  The wind was taken out of me as I heard the words Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma.  A few weeks prior to the diagnosis - I found a bruise on my chest and directly under the bruise was a lump.  I quickly made an appointment with my family doctor, that than lead to a mammogram, then an ultra-sound and then the biopsy.  I waited four long days to receive the results. Upon getting a confirmation of the diagnosis - we shared with the girls.  We cried and hugged but we also were able to rejoice in our friends and family members that have been touched by cancer and won.  Nevertheless, it was one of the hardest days of our lives. 

   Navigating this journey has already been a huge learning curve.  It is about hurrying  to get the next appointment then waiting for the appointment and waiting for the results.  Yet, I feel good that I finally have a PET/CT scan scheduled for Friday at 2:00 (Aug.12th).  The results will be shared on Monday at 11:45 (Aug. 15th).  The scan will either confirm that the cancer is centralized in my breast or if it has grown in other areas. Also on Monday a great local oncologist, will review the scan and share a treatment plan with Jim and I.  On Wednesday, Jim and I will make the trek up to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance to get a second opinion on treatment. 

   Many of you have asked my plans for this upcoming school year, well working is a must.  Yet, I have postponed my internship till the following years.  I will be attempting to take the course work through WSU that includes a couple classes each semester.  I will be teaching third grade at Brouillet Elementary School under a fantastic principal that has been very supportive.

   Finally, I want to say thank you to my family who has been with me every step of the way.  I want to say thank you to my friends that have rallied around me with prayers and words of encouragement.  So many have asked, what they can do to help.  Thank you but at this time - I just need your prayers.  Prayers that that the cancer is localized in one area.  Prayers that the treatment plans between the local oncologist and Seattle Cancer Care are identical - to make the decision easier.  Prayers for the girls as we move forward with a treatment that the girls only get stronger in their faith and in family.  Pray that I walk through this cancer glorifying God.   

Thank you for taking the time to read this. 
Much Love,
Kris