Day 4 - Mom's Update

Today was the day we got some answers... Mom has breast cancer that has metastasized and bone cancer (Stage 4) ... a tumor and a lesion on one of her breast and a large tumor on her lumbar spine (L2-L5 including S1) and pin-size holes from the bone cancer (not multiple myeloma - like doctors originally suspected) covering her skull. It is treatable, but not curable. She is scheduled to be released tomorrow. She will be spending some more time at our house; while we secure a rehab facility for her. They are telling us she needs 24 hour medical care. It is imperative that she is cautious with her bones being so fragile. We have our first meeting with Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center on Monday and treatment (radiation and chemo) to begin soon after. They will be trying to reduce with radiation the size of the back tumor in order to reduce the amount of pain she is in. Numerous doctors, nurses, and individuals who have experienced bone cancer say it is the most painful.

Mom mentally is doing great considering. We are all overwhelmed and shocked by what we have learned this week. One phone call changed our lives. For months, we fought a battle with a dislocated pelvis and a possible disc problem - never dreamed cancer would be the cause of the pain. Carl, Karen, Christi, Todd, and I have all pulled together to support Mom with our battle; please join us and pray.

There are so many special people to thank for the work and efforts they have done for us this week. Our employers for their understanding, Mrs. Linda (Mom's best friend) for sitting at the hospital with us, Aunt Linda and Uncle Paul for the shoulders and breaks that you have given us, Mrs. Barbara (my neighbor) for calling the priest Fr. Joe, and other ministries for prayer; as well as the people who have added us to pray list, prayed, called, emailed, visited, and sent gifts and well wishes. My mom is truly an amazing person. She is the most giving and kind person I know (I am partial, but anyone who has ever encountered her, I am sure would agree). The good way she has led her life is showing with all of the support we are receiving and yes, we need it all.

I do not plan on sending out anymore email updates. I have temporarily opened up my blog site and will post the information there. Please feel free to comment or send me an email.