Well, let's see. I guess I can start this project with info. I have started this blog to keep my family and friends updated on what the boys are doing, both in school and out. As well as, Matt, how he's feeling and what going with him. And, of course, me. Quick background on me. 2 years ago, December 2006, I was diagnosed with Stg 2b breast cancer. I was 32. Turns out I am BRCA1 positive---no surprise there as most women in my family have had breast cancer at some point, and I was 2 years older than my mom was when she was diagnosed. I went through the hell of chemotherapy, followed by radiation. Which, by the way, is a special hell I hope few are honored to endure. Ahh freedom. I enjoyed the next year tremendously. I co-chaired VBS for our church, I helped coach Cross Country for the school, I was camp nurse at the camp my boys attend.I took the boys on a road trip to the Grand Canyon. I returned to work. My husband and I made plans and were looking forward to buying a house and leaving my mother's. On Janauary 3, 2009, I went to the hospital complaining of right sided chest pain with inspiration and short of breath. What I thought would be pneumonia, and possibly a PE, was in fact breast cancer metastisis to my right lung, good news doesn't stop there- The bone scan revealed that I have mets in both hips as well as, my low back. (enter hysterical crying here)
I spent a week in the hospital, and was finally sent back to my home, with a plan in place. I am to begin chemotherapy on Tuesday for what is now Stg 4 breast cancer. I now find that my life expectancy has been considerably shortened, and I'm not very happy about it. Bless his heart, Matt responded, "Honey, you're just in a deep depression." Besides wanting to throw something at him, my considered response was, "You think?" So... that being said I have started this journal, so to speak, as an outlet, and information for friends and family. If I rant angrily, please forgive, If I'm slow to post please forgive. I have had so many people reach out to me and my family. The response has been amazing. Messiah Lutheran Church and School, such a loving support last time, has once again offered their assistance. North Hills Hospital, the staff in so many departments, have shared tears, given hugs, offered help, prayers, you name it. To each and every person, I can not thank you enough. Enough whingin for tonight, tomorrow is day 1, round 2. Wish me luck.
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Hi, Lorri,
ReplyDeleteWow! what a great idea! I pray for you, the boys, Matt. I would trade places in a minute.
Love you so much,
'Nette
Lana....you are ever so constantly in my prayers! Love, Dianne
ReplyDeleteLorri-
ReplyDeleteI have watched you do many things over the years, sacrificing your own health and well being in order to get things done. Many women can't hold a candle to you. I guess what I'm trying to say is I admire you!
Now that you are faced with this major struggle again, take note of the people who are gathering around you. You are TRULY loved and admired.
Although I can't fix it nor feel what you feel, I can share this experience with you and would be honored to do so!
I love you like a sister!!
Cathi
Lorri,
ReplyDeleteMother to mother....if there is anything you need for the boys...dont hesitate to ask. If you are having a bad day..or just need a nap, I will happily take your boys! They would love a playdate anyways!!!You have my cell phone number..
You are in our thoughts and prayers Lorri! You are a wonderful mother and you have made me remember all of lifes blessings!
Natasha
Lorri-
ReplyDeleteAnything you need girlfriend! Meals, someone to kidnap your dogs, or your kids, or YOU for a few hours? I can come over and do stand-up, a few snippits of some showtunes...heck, I even have my tap shoes around here somewhere. Oh, and I clean a mean bathroom! Gimme a call girl, I will be right over!
Mrs. Kirk's Kindergarten class are now your prayer warriors, my friend!
God's Blessings,
Betsy
Lana (Lorri),
ReplyDeleteI... Don't know what to say. Rarely, as you may know, do I not have the words. Perhaps at this moment it is enough to let you know that you and yours are very much in my thoughts and you have a bit of my heart. And though so few understand the metaphor from this -- a piece of an old Gaelic blessing -- I offer, "May the road rise to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back."
Much love, care and consideration,
Kelley Hill (Plaza ER)
Lana,
ReplyDelete* I have been wondering where you have been... I just thought you were tired of working with me and seeing my sparkling smile and listening to my smart ass eye rolling sense of humor, and now I find out quite the opposite. Without joking, I actually heard from one of our patients this morning that you were not feeling too hot -- I have been thinking of you all day, you and your family. I immediately wrote your number down this morning so I could give you a call. If you can imagine, I found it hard to find the words to say.. it should not be so hard -- I know we have not known each other long, but I think you have a big heart (especially) with those boys of yours... and you are a great nurse to work with. You know how I am with MY NURSES.. Lana, you are in my prayers, my thoughts - if there is anything I can help with, anything I can do for you or your family -- please do not hesitate to contact me and ask.. Anything... If I can do it, I will.. I know you are a strong person, a strong woman, a strong mom -- but you do not have to be so strong all the time -, I know you probably have some amazing friends that are there for you WHENEVER...but I can be a friend too, and I am here -- lean on others -- I promise it will not hurt you..
Toyia