Mike is suffering from time constraints and “bloggers block”, so the blogging duties have fallen to me. I’m not quite as entertaining as Mike, but hope to provide you with some updated details just the same.

On Monday, we saw the Oncologist prior to chemo and received more good news. The tumor has shrunk more from just two weeks prior. In addition, one very enlarged lymph node can no longer be felt at all. YAHOO! The Dr. explained that the tumor may not shrink more as it is possible that the cancer is gone, but the remnants of dead tissue (from the cancer) remain. During surgery, this tissue will be removed, along with level one and two lymph nodes. Further testing will then take place. It has not yet been determined if I will need a lumpectomy or mastectomy. Not to take away from the excellent medical care I am receiving, but my sense is that God will make this path and decision clear when it is necessary. He is, after all, in charge of all of this. I am trying to remain focused on the “next thing”, which at this point is getting through the remaining Chemo treatments.

After the Dr. appointment, we were very happy to mark off Chemo #3. Shelby accompanied Mike and I. I felt very supported to have both of them with me. You all know that Mike is the love of my life, soul mate and strength. You may not know of the strength of character that Shelby, at age 16, has also demonstrated – she is not afraid to do the hard stuff - I am so proud of her. God has richly blessed me with Mike and Shelby.

I will have one more chemo round with the drug that I’ve had thus far. Treatments 5-8 will be with another drug. I’m hoping that I am as fortunate to weather the new drug with continued mild side affects. I’ve yet to have any nausea and have additional drugs that I could take had this occurred. The next drug is supposed to cause more fatigue and body aches – all very doable. I am very grateful and Praise the Lord constantly for a shrinking tumor, lymph node and such mild side effects!

A book was recommended by Joy Stevans (thanks Joy!) at our church called “Praying through Cancer – Setting Your Heart Free from Fear” , this little gem offers 90 days of short devotionals that has been of tremendous comfort to me. One that I would like to share is found on page 14/15 and is written by Sister Sue Tracy a Hospital Oncology Chaplain suffering from non-Hodgkins Lymphoma – her niece writes her telling her she wants the “Big C” (Christ that is) to conquer the ‘little c” (cancer). I thought this was a wonderful reminder that Christ is always the Big C – regardless of any of our life’s circumstances. Instant perspective! Later in the written prayer – Sister Tracy writes, “Help me focus on You as my “Big C” ready to crush and triumph over the “little c” that I am coping with now. Above all, I deeply desire that You are praised in this experience. If I can be assured of this, all that is happening is worthwhile for my growth and your glory”. I wish I had the eloquence to write these words, but nonetheless, this is also my prayer in overcoming cancer, and to the extent possible the heartache of Andrea’s death.

Many thanks to those whom have brought meals, sent emails, commented on the blog and my walking partners! Many blessings have been shown us through our wonderful support network of dear friends! Please continue the prayer support for destruction of all cancer cells, continued ease of chemo treatments, wisdom on the “next step”, and strength and peace for my wonderful husband, daughter and parents.

Much love to all,
Lynn