Summer is Here...

It's been awhile since my last update. Upon my completion of a 4-week break from radiation/chemo, a follow-up MRI was done on Monday. Today, Randy and I met with both the radiation and chemo doctors. The MRI was "messy" (his term, not ours), which is typical after surgery to remove the tumor, followed then by chemo and radiation. Within in the next week, I will begin a chemo maintenance program. My white blood cell count is not in the range it should be, so I will continue with weekly lab work to monitor its numbers.

There has been a song a Facebook "friend" of mine has had posted on her Facebook page recently. The songs reminds me that God sometimes calms the storm in our lives, and sometimes He just rides them with us.

"I will praise you in this storm, and I will lift my hands, for You are who You are, no matter where I am...and every tear I've cried, you hold in your hand, you never left my side, and though my heart is torn, I WILL PRAISE YOU IN THIS STORM." Casting Crowns

Update...Unspoken Request

I finished my chemo/radiation treatments last Monday (May 24th). I am currently on a four-week break. I believe I will begin a chemo maintenance program on completion of my break. I've had a little trouble with my "numbers" fluctuating. That has necessitated some additional boosters/shots.

The main reason for my post today has nothing to do with me physically. I cannot really say much (that's why it's unspoken), but I would appreciate your prayers on behalf of someone else in my life. I know God can intervene, even when it seems hopeless. I need God to wrap His loving arms around this situation and give guidance and direction. Thanks!

Wisdom Hunters Resources...Hebrews 11:8

God's will is a series of discoveries. And it is the transition between discoveries that tests the true nature of my faith. I can press forward by faith or I can analyze the situation until I am paralyzed by uncertainty.

We are compelled by the love of our Lord to conquer the next challenging circumstance and to pioneer the unfamiliar in prayer.

Head for the Cure (6th Annual Event)

This fun, family-oriented walk/run is today in West Park (Carmel, Indiana). The goal of the day is to raise awareness and research funding for the "American Brain Tumor Association." (http://www.braincure.org/) The ABTA is a not-for-profit, independent organization, not affiliated with any one institution. They serve individuals globally and award funds to researchers throughout the United States and Canada. It is estimated that more than 190,000 brain tumors are diagnosed in the United States each year. Progress has been made, but so much is still unknown.

From the bottom of my heart....thank you, Brooke and Bradley, for participating in an event to help your Mom and so many others! XO

Unexpected Blog

I probably would have not had a blog for today. But after I went to my appointment for radiation, I felt compelled to write. When I arrived, they asked if a woman could observe my treatment process. I was all for it. I learned this woman has a sister in another state with a diagnosis very similar to mine. She was wanting to get a grasp on what her sister will be experiencing. While I didn't think to ask the woman what her sister's name is, I did learn this woman's sister is a young mother of 4-year twins. I cannot tell you how heavy my heart is for this young woman/mother. Please join me in saying a prayer for the journey this family is facing...

As Mother's Day Approaches

After today, I will have completed 31 days of chemo and 22 rounds of radiation, leaving me with 2 more weeks of chemo and 10 more rounds of radiation (final day...May 21). The fatigue is pretty constant at this point. I am grateful that being a bit more tired is really the only symptom I've had to make the adjustment for. (Side note: I've always loved a good nap, especially on Sunday afternoon.)

As I reflect on the upcoming holiday (Mother's Day), I am reminded of what great kids I have. Growing up as a little girl, the only "career" I ever really wanted was to be a MOM!

So let me extend my heartfelt Mother's Day wishes to three of the most important women in my life.....my daughter, Brooke.....my mother, Dixie.....my mother-in-law, Carol.

Logan's B-Day

The most important blog subject of the day.....today is Logan's 3rd birthday! Brooke put together (no big surprise there) such an awesome "Curious George" party Saturday evening. It was so much fun watching Logan understand what was going on and thoroughly enjoy the festivities. He was SO excited! I cannot tell you how blessed I feel to be this little boy's "Gram." I love you, Logan! XOXOXOX