Updates on Kathy's battle with breast cancer.

Monday, May 7, 2012

I recently learned that I have breast cancer.  I'm still gathering information, but I've started this blog as a way to keep anyone interested informed on this new journey.  


History:  I found a lump about 6 weeks ago.  After monitoring it for a month to see if it would change or go away, I went to my family Dr.  Since I had a normal mammogram in Sept. 2011, she didn't think it was cancer, but sent me for more testing just in case.  On Tuesday, May 1, 2012, I arrived for my 2:15 appointment.  At 7:00 p.m., I left the office.  After mammograms and ultrasounds, Dr. Mitchell stayed late with his staff to do a biopsy so I could leave the next morning to take Heath on a college visit.  He said it looked like cancer,since I had no signs of infection.  We told the kids that it was almost certain that it was cancer.  Dr. Mitchell sent the tissue off stat. Wednesday at noon, 18 hours later, I received a call confirming there was cancer both in the left breast and in the lymph node under my left arm.    


We let the news soak in for the rest of Wednesday and Thursday.  Thursday night we shared the news with our moms and siblings.  We'd planned to have a small family fast on Sunday, but expanded the news sharing to extended family and close friends.  Sunday there were countless family, church family, and friends joining us in praying and fasting for me.  It was very touching.  I feel so loved.  I have been feeling the power of those prayers.  It is an amazing feeling to feel the love and support of so many, and the blessings of heaven giving peace and comfort to me and my family.  Thank you so very much!  


Monday's news:  Today we met with the surgeon.  The pathology results told us what kind of cancer it is, so the oncologist can decide what meds to treat it with.  We will spend this week and next week gathering more information and meeting with doctors to make the plan.  I'll have some blood tests, an MRI of the chest area, and on Friday a PET/CT test (a scan from my neck to my knees) to make sure there is no cancer anywhere else.  Next week we'll meet with the oncologist to discuss chemo options based on all of the info gathered.  Then we'll meet back with the surgeon, possibly another surgeon, and then make a game plan together with the entire team.  


So, the good news for today:  1) I'll be able to decorate for and attend Mormon Prom!! (Which I LOVE doing!), 2) In approximately 9-12 months I should be cancer free, 3) I can get any kind of haircut I've been too chicken to try, because if I don't like it, it will soon be gone.  If I do like it, I'll know what to try once my hair grows back.  4) I'll get to spend time with my family, see my kids marry, be a grandma, and hopefully a great grandma.  5) I feel complete peace and somehow this exhilaration for this new experience that will stretch our entire family to new levels.  


Mountains to Climb is the talk that inspired the title of this blog.  Unlike President Eyring, who prayed for a mountain of his own to climb; I knew NOT to pray for such a thing, because prayers are answered.  I know that my Lord and Savior will be by my side, along with the help and support of the wonderful angels I'm surrounded by--my family and friends.  I'm thankful for this opportunity to grow.

17 comments:

  1. We love you Kathy. Our family joined in on the fast yesterday. Everything is going to work out great.

    Alan

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  2. Oh Kathy, what great faith you have! You are such an example to me! We'll be praying for you!

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  3. We love and we are praying for you and your sweet family!
    Liesl

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  4. Oh my goodness! You're the second friend who has told me she has breast cancer this week! I LOVE your blog title. No doubt you will be standing ON TOP of that mountain, looking down at the incredible view in no time. You are loved by so many people...that's a lot of prayers coming your way!!

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  5. You are such an amazing women. You family is in our thoughts and our prayers. If you need anything please let me know. I love to clean:))

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  6. Kathy, you are an unfailing optimist with so much faith and courage! I admire you in so many ways and am grateful to know you. We will be fasting and praying for you and your family.

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  7. Kathy you are so amazing. I love your fierce and faithful attitude towards this next adventure you're facing and the mountain background behind your blog. Just remember all those pink walkers who are marching for YOU in the Komen foundation for a cure. There's tons of resources online to help you through your challenge, and of course our prayers in your behalf.

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  8. I love your spirit and your example. You are an amazing woman. You have faith, support, optimism, and hope. With that combination there is no way you won't be fine! You are a loved woman.

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  9. Dear friend! My thoughts, love and prayers are with you. I love you and know you are in the hands of our Heavenly Father! I know His love will continue to give you strength and comfort!
    Love,
    Ann Herlin

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  10. One wouldn't think you'd need such a mountain to climb because you're already such an inspiration already. Is there any reason you've been called to serve with the youth? They (and all of us who know you) need an example like you of unwaivering faith and optimism. Many would see all that they can't do or see the pain ahead in such a situation. You remain filled with hope and see the chance to get a fun haircut! Your attitude makes me remember Elder Wirthlin's comment: Come what may and love it. THANK YOU for being a further inspiration to me Kathy.

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  12. Kathy,
    so sorry to hear of your diagnosis, but loved reading your humor and faith. We'll be praying for you here in Texas!

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  13. You are one of the strongest and bravest women I know. You've never let anything stop you - you're a great example and inspiration in my life! I love you - my prayers are with you!

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  14. Kathy,
    I haven't had the privilege of meeting you, but I know your son, Garrett. My son, Dave roomed with Garrett at BYU and we adore him. I read your news and just want to let you know that our prayers and faith will be added to many others in your behalf. Take care.

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  15. Love you Kathy and will be remembering you in my prayers for the months to come.
    <3 Sandra

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  16. Sister Tenny. You may not remember me but my name is Daniel Nicoll. I was a missionary in the mississippi jackson mission. I remember the countless sundays that you feed us missionaries. I will always remember the sacracfice that that was for your family. So sorry to here about you. My family and I will be praying for you. I hope you and your family are doing well.
    Take Care.

    Daniel Nicoll

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  17. Thank you for sharing this with us. We love you and support you through this trial!! Thank you for your strength and optimism! You truly are amazing!! I love you!

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