My Healing Journal – From April 25, 2025 – Present

So many people have asked how I found out that I had ovarian cancer. I realize everyone fears the unknown, what should I look for, and so on. I’m happy to share my experience if it can help you or a family member. So, I’ve decided to document my experience every week here. I’ll be honest and up front every step of the way. So let’s begin.

How It All Began

It all began with one life-altering phone call on Friday, April 25, 2025. It was the phone call no one wants to receive. “We think you have ovarian cancer!”

Let Me Back Up!

I thought I was in perfect health. On March 5th, I had my annual wellness checkup and blood work. I had no complaints, and my blood work was excellent. I was feeling on top of the world.

• April 14th, 1 1/2 weeks before the call! – I began to have abdominal pain. A heaviness in my lower belly, a little bloating, and pressure. Nothing that couldn’t be explained as indigestion. However, it didn’t go away. I suspected an infection, possibly a UTI. This was mostly over the Easter holiday, so I made an appointment with my Doctor for April 24th. I explained my symptoms, and she scheduled me for a CT scan the next day.
• April 25th – CT Scan – I had the CT scan late on a Friday afternoon, so I inquired about when I would receive the results. I assumed it would be the next week, but was informed I’d know that day because the scan was marked STAT. I guess I should have been concerned, but I wasn’t
• Friday, April 25th – My doctor called me with the devastating news. She wanted me to come to her office on Monday for more blood work. Plus, she asked where I’d like to be referred to for a Gynecological Oncologist. I was devastated and felt hopeless. All the negative things I’d heard about ovarian cancer were ringing in my ears. “it’s the silent killer”, “by the time you are diagnosed, it’s too late”, and then I did the worst thing I could and googled it.
• I could not communicate with anyone, but my husband reached out to friends and family for prayers, which resulted in many encouraging messages. I was praying they were wrong and that it was a horrible mistake.
• Monday, April 28th – I had a CA-125 test, which can help to diagnose ovarian cancer, and one for colon cancer. Additionally, I underwent an internal ultrasound that same day. With each test, the diagnosis was the same. My CA-125 was 1904, but thankfully, the colon cancer was negative.
• The Power of Prayer – Although the many prayers for the Doctors to be wrong were not answered, I still know that God answered my prayers in other ways. By reaching out to friends and family, I connected with people who gave me encouragement and hope. Most importantly, I connected with a friend who has had ovarian cancer for over 20 years, and she miraculously was able to get me an appointment with her gynecologic oncologist on Wednesday, April 30th, just 5 days after my CT Scan.
• Wednesday, April 30th – I met with Dr. Tucker and was very impressed. She was very encouraging about my prognosis. However, I was disappointed to hear that I would need chemotherapy before surgery. The cancer is not only in my ovaries but also in my omentum, which has attached itself to my colon in two places. Hopefully, the chemo will shrink the cancer away from my colon and make my surgery less invasive. She feels the cancer is still only in the omentum, and my colon is cancer-free. Based on the CT scan, she feels I’m at Stage 3.
• Friday, May 2nd. Prayers were still being answered because by Friday, I was meeting with my Hematologist-Oncologist, Dr. Gorsuch. She scheduled me for my first Chemotherapy treatment on Friday, May 16th. Several appointments were needed in the meantime, and she made them happen sooner rather than later.
• Thursday, May 8th – I had a biopsy to confirm the cancer diagnosis, although it’s pretty obvious what the results will be. I can’t begin Chemo until the results are confirmed, which should be first of this week. I also had a port installed in my chest for the chemotherapy treatments. The same doctor performed both, and it was a painless experience. However, I have experienced some pain around the port post-surgery. Fortunately, Advil has alleviated most of the discomfort. I hardly experienced any discomfort from the biopsy.
• I also went to look for wigs as I’m told I’ll lose my hair. I found one reasonably priced that I think I’ll get. They have to order my size. It’s shorter than I’ve been wearing my hair, but I felt it would be a good transition for when my hair begins to grow back. My hairstylist assured me she can cut and style it to look more like me.

Planned Course of Treatment

Here is the treatment plan. Praying that everything goes as planned.

• 3 rounds of chemo, which will take me into July.
• Surgery to remove all the cancer.
• 3 more rounds of chemo, which will take me into November.

We had planned a trip to Italy in October, which will have to be canceled. I’m disappointed, but getting well is my top priority. I know I’ll have plenty of time to travel once this bump in the road is behind me.

Each week, I will document my experiences and how I feel. I know each person and situation is different, but if my documentation can help one person, it will be worth my time. It’s my goal to provide hope and encouragement, like I’ve already received from so many.

Three Important Things I’ve Learned So Far

1. Believe in the power of prayer. Reach out immediately to family, friends, and acquaintances for prayer. Although you may not experience the miracle of a misdiagnosis, prayer can be answered in mysterious ways. I truly believe prayer has put the right people in my path, from encouragement and support to being led to the best doctors and healing path for my situation. I’ve experienced so many twists and turns on this short journey that I know it’s God’s plan.
2. Ovarian cancer is not a death sentence (which was exactly what I thought upon hearing my diagnosis). I’ve learned that ovarian cancer responds well to chemo, and 75% of women will have a positive outcome. I’m still scared and worried about treatments, but I know I’ll get through this.
3. Attitude is Everything! Keep a positive outlook, don’t listen to negative people, and definitely don’t try to research your diagnosis online. Dr. Gorsuch said, You can’t listen to what others are saying and what you’ve seen on TV and movies about cancer and chemo treatments. In her words “it’s all bulls***!” She is very blunt, but tells it like it is.

Next week, I have Blood Work to prepare for the Chemo, a Chemo Class, and a chest CT scan. Brad has attended all my doctor’s appointments and is with me every step of the way. He is my biggest cheerleader, making sure I eat well to build up my strength for what’s to come. When I begin chemo on Friday, May 16th, he will be by my side. I couldn’t make this journey without his support and faith that all would be okay.

First Week of Chemo & Preparation May 13th – 17th

I’d like to start by going back to the installation of my port.  I shared last week that it was a painless process, and I went into it without any fear.  I guess in the broad scheme of things, it seemed like a minor blip.  It was slightly uncomfortable for a few days, but Advil eased the discomfort.  What I didn’t share is that my first glimpse of the shunt under the skin was scarier than I imagined and filled my eyes with tears.  I know it will be less visible as time goes on, but it’s a foreign object in my chest.  One that I will have to live with for months.  I was advised not to take it out immediately after my treatments end (just in case it’s needed again).  I completely understand the need for the port and know that my treatments and blood work will be less painful.  I know I’ll be thankful for it.  So let’s see how it worked this week.  

Tuesday, May 13th – I went for my blood work and Chemotherapy training.  The nurse/trainer was terrific and explained everything in detail.  I feel assured that I will be taken care of every step of the way during my treatments and after I’m home.  However, I’m still nervous about what my reaction will be to the treatments.  I’ve been given medications to prevent any allergic reactions and anti-nausea medicines for afterwards.  I was advised to bring gallon-sized ziplock bags for ice.  During my treatment, my fingers and toes will be placed in ice to prevent neuropathy in my hands and feet.  No one knows how each person will respond to the treatments, so I was given a long list of possible issues. I know I need to be aware, but I’m praying that my otherwise good health will make this journey as easy as possible.  I plan to follow their advice to the letter.  

I told you I’d be honest with my feelings, so as trivial as it may sound, I was told that ovarian cancer can reoccur and that I may have the shunt/port in my chest long term.  I explained that I’ve not quite come to terms with it being there at all, and to hear I might keep it for years was upsetting.  (I know that I should be thankful they are talking years and that this is trivial, but it’s how I feel in this moment.)

In the meantime, my bloodwork results were posted on myChart, and I’m happy to report that everything was within range except for the CA-125, which was high (1,508) and indicates ovarian cancer.  (Normal CA-125 is 0-38.1). I’m still amazed that all the other bloodwork is perfect.  It just feels like there should be some indication that something is wrong.  I guess the lesson I’ve learned is to listen to your body and even if you’re bloodwork is good, ask for more tests if you have any concerns.  

I was also advised to forgo the Advil before Chemo as it thins the blood. So I’m switching to Tylendol for pain. We will see how that goes.

Today was also our daughter’s birthday. Happy Birthday, Jennifer!  

Wednesday, May 14th – My sister and I went on an outing to pick up my wig. We had a nice lunch, and then I tried on the wig. The one I tried on my first visit was too small, as I have a big head. Who knew? LOL. So they had to order the larger size. It’s the same style wig, but I liked the smaller one better. Both my sister and the lady helping said it looked great. So I brought home the wig for my big head. I hope my hairstylist can shape it more to my style when the time comes. I also purchased several items at the drug store that will be on hand for the just-in-case situations I learned about in my Chemo class.  I also had dinner with a dear friend as I’m gearing up for less social time.  

Thursday, May 15th – Today, I had a chest CT scan to see if there are any signs of cancer above my abdomen.   Then, I met with Dr. Gorsuch, my hematologist-oncologist, to review the results of my scan and biopsy.  Basically, all the biopsy did was confirm that I have ovarian cancer. The CT scan did show a small amount of fluid in my right lung, but she feels it will dry up after the first chemo treatment. So now I’m just preparing for my first day of Chemo tomorrow.

We had dinner with some of our dear friends, who are all wonderful and encouraging. However, once I was home, I let my fears take over. I’ve been so busy with appointments and preparing that I’ve been on autopilot. But Brad reminded me that my prognosis was good, and I had so many people praying that I was in God’s hands and all would be okay. With his arms holding me tight, I was able to sleep.

First Day Of Chemotherapy

Friday, May 16th – I’m up early, preparing for my long day of chemotherapy. I have medications to take before leaving, and I’m eating a healthy breakfast. I feel more encouraged this morning. I know I can do this! So let’s get this cancer out of my body!!!!

The fear of the unknown is much worse than reality!  

I was immediately put at ease with my nurse, Abby!  She and Ryan were both watching over me and assured me they would protect me if anything unforeseen occurred. Once I had 100% of my dosage flowing without any side effects, I was golden. I’m imagining it getting into those cancer cells and destroying them right now. 

Many were praying for no side effects, and prayers were definitely answered because it was a smooth and painless day for me.

Here are the medications that I was given today before the actual Chemotherapy Drugs.

• Cetirizine (QUZYTTIR) and famotidine (PEPCID) – To prevent allergic reactions.
• Dexamethasone (DECADRON) – Steroid
• Fosaprepitant (EMEND) & Palonosetron (ALOXI) – Anti-Nausea Medications

Chemotherapy Drugs

• PACLitaxel (TAXOL) -Chemo
• CARBOplatin (PARAPLATIN) – Chemo

I also put my fingers and toes on ice. Abby advised me to keep them there instead of removing them when they became painful. After just a few minutes, they became numb, and I couldn’t feel them at all. So, it was not as bad as I anticipated. Yay!  

My care at Wesley Long Cancer Center was amazing, and I wish I could have the same team for each treatment, but it’s the luck of the draw. I wish I’d taken a picture of them before I left, but my mind wasn’t thinking straight. I’ll try to remember to document with more photos in the future.

It was a long day, and by the time we made it home, it was after 5:00. I was feeling completely normal, so I made my black bean cake recipe for supper (yes, I cooked, but Brad helped with the chopping). We went to bed early, and I slept well.

Saturday, May 17th – I’m up early and feeling good. However, I’ve been forewarned that it’s the heavy dosage of steroids I’ve received that are making me feel good, and I’ll most likely crash in a few days. But I’ll be letting you know how it goes. In the meantime, I enjoyed my day. We walked two miles, did a little shopping for hats to wear when my hair is gone, and had dinner out. A normal Saturday for us. Just before bedtime, my abdomen woke up, and I started feeling some pain. However, it was different, more like little zapping pains. I want to think it was the chemo zapping the cancer.

Important Things I have learned this week.

• The Chemo Class was very informative and necessary. However, they are giving you general Chemo information, and all things may not apply to your situation. I’m so thankful to have asked my doctor questions about some of the disturbing information I received during the class. She clarified that all chemo treatments are not the same, and clarified what I should or could possibly expect from the treatments I am receiving. It was a great relief. So if you are facing treatments and have fears about how your chemo will affect you, have a discussion with your doctor so you can have a true picture of what to expect instead a generic view.
• Prepare a mini pharmacy in your home with all recommended over-the-counter and prescription medications. The last thing you want is to need a medication and have to run to the store. I think I’m prepared for all the possible side effects that may or may not occur.
• I began this journal in the hope that I could help others going through a similar situation. I have been blessed with an outpouring of support and encouragement. However, I know that not everyone has that type of support, and I wanted to provide a message of hope. But the one thing I’ve learned in writing down my feelings is that the burden in my heart has been lifted. By encouraging others, I’m adding to my belief system. I know I can beat this, and come what may, I will. I just read this article and have included it on my Dirt Road Adventures. But it’s worth adding here as well. Read – 10 Reasons To Keep A Journal. Whatever your burden may be (it doesn’t have to be cancer), start a journal. My blog has been a journal of sorts for me, and now writing my Cancer Journal makes me realize how uplifting sharing my feelings and ideas really is.
• Last but not least! Let people know what to pray for. I feel that my whole experience has been smooth because so many were praying for me to accept the chemo without any complications. I now pray that the aftereffects are not harsh and that I can be as active as possible. That I’ll be healthy and able to take my second treatment on June 6th without delay, and that the cancer is shrinking away from my colon.

Important Things I’ve Learned About The First Week After Chemo

• It’s not fun!!! I didn’t know what to expect and did really well in hindsight. The abdominal pain on days 3 and 4 was something I wasn’t prepared for. I was told about the joint, arm, and leg aches, but not the fireworks that were going off in my belly. But of all the possible things that might happen, the checklist to call the cancer center immediately if they happened, none of those happened, and I’m so blessed for that. I was fearful of nausea, but I followed my doctor’s orders and drank Miralax each morning, and didn’t need any of the anti-nausea medications I had on hand, just in case.
• It’s easier to be positive and optimistic when you feel good. I know I will get through this, but there were a few pity parties last week. I’m so fortunate to be otherwise healthy, and I really can’t imagine how people with other serious health conditions survive the treatments.
• A support system is so important. I received many wonderful messages from people I’ve never met, who put me on their prayer list, shared their cancer survival stories, or simply sent a cheerful message. I received so many cards and well wishes. Constant text messages asking how I was doing. Some just sent me pics of their gardens and sweet fur babies to distract me from how I felt. It was amazing, and I thank god for all of you who have reached out. No one will ever know how these messages lifted me from my self-pity.
• Prayers have been answered in so many ways. I’ve had so many express their amazement at my speedy treatments. I had my first chemo treatment 3 weeks from the day I was diagnosed. I’ve heard the horror stories of waiting weeks to see the oncologist for the first time. My prayer warriors prayed and spread the word for a quick resolution, which worked. I asked for prayers to get through the treatments without any reaction, and I did. I prayed I could tolerate the treatments, and I did. Yes, I had a rough week, but it was minor compared to what could have happened, and I know that all the prayers are being answered. My next treatment is June 6th, and god willing, my blood work will be good and I’ll be able to start this process over again. So my prayer request is that this first treatment was the worst, and the cancer is already shrinking. I pray that I can begin to regain my weight loss. And that I’ll be able to proceed with my second treatment on time and without any major side effects.
• I also received many recommended scripture verses that comforted me. I thought I’d share a few with you to give you hope or to pass along to someone in need.
  • Deuteronomy 31: 6
  • Isaiah 41:10
  • Philippians 4: 6-7
  • John 14:27

Week of May 25th – Week 2 After Chemo

Sunday, May 25th—What a blessed and uplifting day! Late yesterday, I finally got the nerve to share my diagnosis on Facebook and Instagram. I had tried several times but couldn’t get the words out. I had originally planned to do a video, telling my story to the camera. I just couldn’t do it. It’s much easier to write in this journal and let the tears flow than to look into a camera and talk about it. However, I finally got my message out, and the outpouring of love, encouragement, and prayers was overwhelming. I spent most of the day trying to respond to each comment. If I failed to respond to anyone’s lovely words, I apologize.

I felt the best I’ve felt today, and I know that those prayers and encouragement are working. I had so many inspiring stories, and one sweet friend sent me this photo of her morning coffee and said it reminded her of me. Again, a few tears are falling.

We are still trying to stay safe through the recommended isolation period, so I restyled the screen porch. It has been is disarray because we had planned to add a new piece of furniture. Brad helped me finish the makeover, and I had fun decorating it. I’ll be sharing the new piece soon.

Finally, my pain is minimal, my appetite has returned, and I’ve not lost any more weight. I know this is going to be a good week.

Monday, May 26th – I’m waking up early most days. I guess it’s because I’m going to bed much earlier. I used to be a night owl, but not anymore. I’m loving the solitude as I sit on my screen porch and count my many blessings. I’m watching a gentle rain as it lightly lands on the pond. I’m blessed with this gorgeous view.

I have been sharing Chris Stapleton’s song “Weight Of Your World” with a few people. The lyrics speak to my heart and soul. If you’ve not heard it, do yourself a favor and look it up. Here is the first verse.

“I want you to know wherever your road wants to go
I’ll never be far, I’ll always be right where you are
If you lose your way, if your hope is gone
I’ll be the light that leads you home”

Tuesday, May 27th – I awoke early to pack and get ready for today’s adventure. As I styled my hair, I noticed an excess of loose hair. I showed Brad and said I think it’s starting to come out. I realized that I’m not really prepared for this, and there were a few tears. I’m trying to be brave and positive, but it’s easier some days than others. I’m feeling emotional just packing and anticipating our trip. I’ve stopped losing weight, but I haven’t regained what I’ve lost, so some of my clothes no longer fit properly. Between not being sure what I should pack and realizing the hair loss is starting, I was a little shaky. Although I don’t want this to happen while we are at the beach, I had to pull my big panties up and get packed. I sprayed my hair and tried not to touch it, then packed Brad’s hair clippers, my wig and hats as a precaution.

We traveled to the beach in pouring rain. Fortunately, it wasn’t raining when we arrived at our beach cottage, but it was extremely windy. Brad tried to get me to walk with him and Rudy, but I was afraid the wind would blow my hair away. Seriously LOL!

We love our tiny getaway, and it felt good to have some new scenery after being at home for so long. Our beach family treated us to a post-Memorial Day celebration, with grilled hamburgers and homemade Key lime pie. Yum. I have a major sweet tooth, but haven’t had any sweets since my treatment, so the pie was extra special. It was so wonderful to see everyone and enjoy an evening with our friends. I felt almost normal. LOL

Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28 – Hey friends, not much to report. Being at the beach is relaxing, and I’ve enjoyed walking and simply sitting on the porch, reading. My hair continues to fall out. It’s gradual, but when I washed and dried it on Tuesday evening, it looked like it was snowing. I had to clean up a huge amount of hair from the sink and the floor. I once again sprayed it and tried not to touch it.

I had my first official outing on Thursday. My friend and I went to lunch and ate outside, overlooking the water, at Stokes Restaurant in Carolina Beach. It felt so good to do something normal, and my hair was still hanging in there. Then we did one of my favorite things: we did a little shopping at a thrift/consignment shop. I had barely walked into the shop when I spotted my treasure. I was tired upon returning to the beach cottage and did need a little nap.

Although I’m so much better than last week, I’m still having trouble sleeping with my abdominal pain. So I’ve started taking Tylenol PM again and using my heated neck wrap to ease the discomfort. Brad keeps asking if it’s better or worse than before my treatment, and all I can say is it’s different. Perhaps not as heavy and bloated, but sometimes sharper pains. I know it’s all part of the process, but I’m ready for it to go away.

Last but not least, my sweet friend brought me some gifts that had belonged to her late mother, who was one of my favorite people. It was such a thoughtful and moving gesture. The cross has the scripture Matthew 5:16 on the back.

I’ve only read the forward of the book so far, but I feel it’s going to be a very uplifting book. I’ve been asked to pass it along to another person after I finish with it. I look forward to honoring that request.

Friday, May 30th & Saturday, May 31st

On Friday, we are still at the beach, and Brad and I have been walking every morning. I feel it’s essential to stay active and maintain my strength. I’ve read several chapters in Faith Still Moves Mountains. I am really enjoying the message of faith and the power of prayer. In the afternoon, I visited with my beach neighbor and her sister. We just had the nicest time chatting and feeling the ocean breeze. Before she left, she asked if it was okay to pray over me. They both lifted me in prayer, which brought tears to my eyes.

Friday night was the first night I slept the entire night and awoke without abdominal pain on Saturday morning. Praise the lord. I feel like such a weight has been lifted, and I know their prayers have been answered.

As we were leaving the beach, we had lunch overlooking the Cape Fear River with Rudy by our side. I’m updating this journal as we travel home, and after sitting in the car for a couple of hours, I feel no heaviness or pain in my abdomen. In the last few weeks, even a short period of sitting would result in heaviness and pain. I’m sure that the chemo is working, and prayers have been answered.

On a lighter note, my hair made it through the windy beach days, although it’s getting thinner by the day. I’m going to make it home in time to get my wig styled before it’s all gone. I’m still dreading it, but I know I can face the next few months with the help of my hats and wigs. This, too, shall pass. It will be just a blimp in time and a minor bump in this journey.

What I’ve Learned This Week – Week Two After Chemo

• Week Two is much easier, but my energy levels are still low, and I still need to take it easy. However, I do believe it’s essential to keep your mind occupied and not give in completely. I walk every day regardless. Some days are easier than others, but I’ll not stop moving.
• I continued to be blessed with such an outpouring of encouragement and stories from cancer survivors. These messages are like a lifesaver to me. They lift me up and soothe my mind.
• Engaging with people has helped me feel more at ease and more like myself.
• The power of prayer is a mighty thing, and without belief, we are lost. Surround yourself with positive people with similar beliefs.

Here are some bible verses shared with me this past week.

• II Timothy 1:7 from a dear friend and cancer survivor. This was her bible verse during her journey.
• Hebrews 4:16
• Jeremiah 29:11
• Matthew 5:16

Week of June 1st. – Week 3 After Chemo

Sunday, June 1st, and Monday, June 2nd. – Hey friends, I’m just so thankful to be feeling better. My abdominal pain has not returned, and my appetite is good. I’m walking over 2 miles a day and gearing up for my next treatment on Friday, 6/6. I want to be as healthy as possible, and hopefully, I will tolerate this round of treatments much easier than the first.

In other news, my hair is continuing to fall out. On Sunday morning, I had at least run a comb through it, and this was the result. I have an appointment on Tuesday afternoon to shave the remaining hair and have my wig styled. So for Monday, I just patted my hair and prayed it would hang in there for another day. LOL

My sister sent me this message, and I thought I’d share a part of it. This one page of the message really spoke to me. It’s from this Instagram account – https://www.instagram.com/savedbyhisgrace1_?igsh=cWt0MjBlZGJiY2tm

Tuesday, June 3rd – This morning, I’m praying for strength when I get my head shaved this afternoon. I’m ashamed that this is upsetting me so much. I promised to be honest and share the good, the bad, and the ugly when I started this journal, so here it is.

Yesterday, I felt the best I’ve felt in weeks, but last night I couldn’t stop crying. I couldn’t explain why! I know I upset Brad because he suggested that I needed someone other than him to talk to. This morning, I still can’t explain my feelings. I know that this is all part of the healing process, and it will be such a minor bump in the road when this is all over. The funny thing is that when I heard my diagnosis, losing my hair was the least of my concerns. I know I am capable of doing this with grace. Philippians 4:13 says: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” I guess I just needed to feel sorry for myself and take a moment to let my tears flow. I’m unsure what this afternoon will be like, but I’m praying for strength, peace, and calm. Brad is planning to go with me, but I’m unsure if I want him to watch. So much drama over something as trivial as hair. Right?

Okay, it’s done, and I’m so much better. I was brave and didn’t cry. I also didn’t look in the mirror until the wig was in place. LOL! So maybe not so brave! Brad told me I was cute without hair, but I still didn’t look. My sweet hairstylist put the wig on me and did a little trimming and shaping, and it looks pretty good. Afterwards, I realized something that changed my whole perspective about losing my hair. If my hair follicles are dying, that means the Chemotherapy is working. So instead of mourning my hair loss, I’ve chosen to look at it as a positive step toward healing. As I look at that pile of hair in my trash can, I’m imagining all those cancer cells that were being killed at the same time. Yay!!!

After I got home and touched up my makeup, I had Brad take this picture. I feel almost normal when I look at it. This morning, some friends invited me to dinner, and I didn’t feel I could face them in my wig. I was afraid I’d be self-conscious and uncomfortable. However, this afternoon I completely overcame my pity party and am ready to do something normal. So off to dinner I go!

June 4- 6th – Wednesday through Friday – Hi friends, I enjoyed my night out with Angie and Vickie. However, Brad and I have been so attached over the last few weeks; I felt like I had left my security blanket at home. Wednesday and Thursday were spent preparing for Friday. I worked on my blog both days to get ahead of the downtime I’m expecting next week. I also experimented with my new halo wig, which I had recently purchased. I plan to wear it with a hat. I’ve ordered several hats and did a fashion show for Brad. They will be a great addition to my wig, especially for the beach and when it’s so hot. I’ll share some photos and links later. 

Both of these sweet gifts arrived on Wednesday! Thank you to my BeautiControl friend, Jenny, for sending me this beautiful quilt from the Prayer Quilt Ministry at First Methodist Church in Mocksville, NC. And to my dear friends, Alice and Billy, for their constant support and prayer, for the lovely stone art scripture. 

Messages from all over the world started pouring in on Facebook and Instagram on Thursday and Friday.  My email and text messages were overflowing with well wishes, Bible scriptures, and words of encouragement for treatment #2.  I wish I could name everyone who has reached out, but I’d be sure to miss someone!  You know who you are, and I love you all. I wish you many blessings! 

Friday, June 6th – Treatment Day

On Friday morning, as I waited to be called back for my blood work, a sweet thing happened. A lady came out and sat across from me. She was crying and speaking into her phone. I hear her say, “I get to ring the bell today!” 🛎️. Tears were pouring down my cheeks. I think I cried more than she did. It was a beautiful moment. After she left, another lady approached me and asked if I was okay. I explained they were happy tears, and she shared that she was a cancer survivor for over 15 years. Such an encouraging morning.

I then had my blood drawn and met with Dr. Gorsuch. My blood work was perfect, and she said I was doing really well. My cancer antigen (CA) 125 was still high at 965 but at least it had dropped from the original number. She explained why I was having so much abdominal pain and that it was a good sign that the treatments were working. So I guess I’ll welcome Batman and Robin with their zing, bam, and booms to my abdomen again on Sunday night. LOL.

The fingers on my right hand are hardly numb anymore. Still somewhat numb on the left hand, but the numbness has improved. As I was having my treatments, I tried to keep them in the ice consistently this time. However, I kept getting text messages and notifications, and it was hard not to answer them. My sweet daughter, Jennifer, came and sat with me for half the time, while Brad got a break. She read some of the messages and typed my replies for me. The time passed fairly quickly, and I was home by 4:30. I feel good today, but it’s probably due to the steroids. I’ll start crashing on Sunday, but I’ll know what to expect this time. Hopefully, the pain will not be as bad.

I am so humbled by the outpouring of support from people I don’t even know. God is good and I’m blessed. 

Saturday, June 7th – Good Morning! I’m up early and feeling the effects of all the steroids, and looking forward to a good day. I realized that I forgot an important part of my day yesterday and couldn’t wait to share it with you. One of my friends and ex-neighbors has been battling ovarian cancer since last fall. She was having treatments at the cancer center yesterday, and I got to chat with her and her dear sister, who is also a friend. They are such wonderful people, and it was such a pleasure to spend time with them.

Something I didn’t share at the beginning of my journey is that my friend was scheduled for surgery with my doctor on Wednesday, April 30th, but her surgery was cancelled, and another course of treatment was recommended for her. At the time, I didn’t know this was the reason I was able to get such a quick appointment, just 5 days after my CT scan and diagnosis. I feel that this was all so personal, and prayers were answered for both of us. Prayers that her doctors would realize she needed another course of treatment instead of a risky surgery were answered. Prayers that I could get a quick appointment to speed up my treatments were many prayers being answered. But isn’t it ironic that we would know each other? Out of all the cancer patients, our prayers were collectively answered.

Later this month, I’m scheduled for Genetic testing to see if my cancer is inherited, and the result could change my long-term treatments. I’m meeting my dear friend and cousin for lunch. She has been gathering details about my mother’s side of the family. I know I have had some aunts with a history of cancer, but not all the details.

I’m also walking and working around the house while I feel good. We are planning to have dinner with friends this evening. Today is all about making the most of every moment I can. Bless you for following along on my journal. I know it is getting long, but I hope you read at the beginning, you can use the table of contents to jump ahead. Just click on the dates and it will scroll to that day.

What I’ve Learned This Week – Week 3 After Chemo

• Coming into week 3, I felt good! Almost normal, and this was the time to embrace and enjoy the moments. I also felt myself dreading the next round of treatments, but realized that I’d be one step closer to being healed.
• Hair loss isn’t as bad as I thought it would be. Like most things, the anticipation is much worse than the reality. I’m still getting used to the wig. Everyone says it looks great, but all I see is a wig. LOL. In time, I know I’ll adjust.
• Faith and attitude are everything. I witnessed healing in the waiting room just before my blood work, and I walked in with confidence that my treatments were working and my blood work would be perfect, and it was.

June 8 – 14 – First Week After Treatment #2

Sunday, June 8th – The steroids began to wear off earlier than I remembered with the first treatment, but I still had a good Sunday. I walked two miles and was active most of the day. Batman and Robin showed up with some minor zings and pows to my abdomen, so I took my pain medication before bed.

Monday, June 9th – I awoke to leg and arm pain along with some minor abdominal zings. However, unlike my last round of treatments, my mind was clear, and I was able to work on my genetic testing. I was able to walk one mile, but then my legs, especially my knees, began to ache. After lunch, I felt exhausted and needed a nap. I had a good appetite until supper, at which point my indigestion returned. The indigestion persisted throughout the evening and night. By bedtime, I needed the heating pad, Tums, and more pain medication. However, I still believe the pain is less than I experienced after the first treatment.

Unfortunately, the numbness has returned to my fingers. I’m drinking lots of water and exercising, hoping that will reduce the numbness. A friend I’ve met along this journey shared some supplements her doctor suggested to alleviate the numbness in her feet, and she said it’s helping. I’m going to ask my doctor before I take anything that might conflict with my other medications. But I hope I can take them and they will help.

Tuesday, June 10th – Wednesday, June 11th – I’m up early this Wednesday morning after another difficult night. Yesterday, the joint and leg pain worsened, but the pain was inconsistent throughout the day. However, by bedtime, I was experiencing sharp pains in my knees, calves, and especially my feet. Although I took the pain medication, it didn’t alleviate the stinging sensation in my legs and feet; therefore, I slept very little. It’s moments like these that I let my fears take over. I felt as though my feet were becoming numb, and this is a fear I’ve had from the beginning. Neuropathy or nerve damage to your feet and hands is a concern with chemotherapy. I’ve mentioned that I place my hands and feet in ice to help prevent this from happening, but I’ve been experiencing finger tip numbness since my first treatment, and this morning my big toes feel numb. A friend suggested some cream that she uses to help with her neuropathy, and I’ll be ordering that today.

I have faith that I can beat the cancer, but it’s moments like these that leave me fearful of what damage my body will endure from the treatments. I’m praying for peace and understanding, and that I can find a way to combat these side effects. God is good, and I know he will not give me more than I can endure. My scripture for today – Joshua 1:9 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

I’ve made it through days 3 and 4, which were the worst days after my last treatment, so I’m hopeful for a better day today. Simply writing about my fears and concerns has lifted my spirits, and I already feel more at peace. Today will be a better day! Thank you for following along!

Thursday, June 12th – “Suffering produces perseverance: perseverance, character: and character, hope.” Romans 5:3

It’s amazing what a good night’s sleep can do to boost your spirits. After my pity party yesterday morning, I decided I would not be defeated. I began by calling the cancer center to inquire about taking supplements to counteract the neuropathy. I’m adding B-12 and a magnesium cream to my daily supplements. I also investigated exercise and diet recommendations that will help prevent or reverse nerve damage. I’m already walking daily, but I plan to add more stretching and balance exercises. So I’m pulling out all my yoga training manuals.

I know that many of you prayed for me yesterday, and those prayers helped to change my attitude. It’s hard to see beyond the pain, and you tend to lose focus. As a result of many prayers, I didn’t have leg and foot pain last night and was able to get a good night’s rest. I’m up early with a fighter’s attitude, rather than a defeatist one. I’ve always been a determined person. If I set my mind to something, there’s no stopping me. I am determined to overcome every obstacle in my path to recovery.

In other news, I’ve had a good appetite this time, but I’m still losing weight. At this rate, I’ll fit into my wedding dress in a few days, LOL. Dr. Gorsuch didn’t seem concerned with my weight loss at my last visit, but I haven’t been this thin in years. I’m eating a lot of protein as recommended, but I may need to add some higher-calorie items. I’ll investigate that today. Thank you for all your prayers.

Friday – Saturday, June 13-14 – Good morning, friends. I haven’t had much to report, as the remainder of Thursday was spent on deep breathing exercises, drinking plenty of water, and walking. I was even able to get in the pool for about 30 minutes. By Friday, the pain in my leg and foot had diminished substantially. It rained most of the day, so we walked in between the rain, and I spent most of the day on the screened porch, appreciating the view and smelling the magnolia blooms. As with the first treatment, if you can make it to day 7, things start to look up. Day 7 marked the beginning of our period of isolation, so Brad and I will be alone during this Father’s Day weekend.

I awoke this morning after a good night’s sleep and realized that my toes don’t feel numb. Yay! I also believe my right-hand fingers are less numb than the left. All the prayers and positive thoughts are working.

I was also showered with many other blessings this week. We had two meals delivered by friends and family, so I’ve gained back two of the five pounds I lost. I received another stunning (handmade with love by Paula) quilt to keep me warm during my treatments, and the cutest hat that I can’t wait to wear at the beach. Additionally, all your messages and words of encouragement have lifted me during the challenging days. My friend CoCo shared this quote, and I asked if I could share it with you.

I want to mention one other issue, and I’m sharing it because I promised to be honest. If this can help someone going through chemotherapy, it’s important to know. Skip over the italicized content if you prefer not to know the graphic details. So here goes. (I was forewarned that one of the worst side effects of chemo is constipation. I was advised to drink Miralax daily after treatments to avoid this unpleasant side effect. Because I was losing so much weight, I decided to forgo a couple of days of the Miralax. Let’s just say that was a huge mistake and the worst part of my Friday. Know that your doctor’s advice is best followed to the letter. LOL)

Since we are stuck at home and alone, we had planned to spend as much time as possible in the pool and outdoors. So far, the weather hasn’t been cooperating, but my flowers are thriving. Brad did catch a large fish in our first pond. (Don’t tell him I told you, but the camera angle is deceiving. LOL). He also received a huge box of Fireballs as a Father’s Day Gift from Jennifer and Jason.

June 15 – 21st. – Week 2 After Treatment #2

Sunday – Tuesday, June 15-17 – Good morning, friends. I wanted to catch you up on week 2 after my second chemo treatment. The good news is that so far, it has been relatively painless. I felt that week one of my second treatment was better in some ways and worse in other ways than the first treatment. I’m happy to report that I’m feeling almost normal this week. Brad and I spent the weekend at home due to my weakened immune system, but my isolation ended last night. Therefore, this Tuesday morning, we are escaping and heading to the beach for a few days. I have been at home for nine straight days and was going stir crazy. Brad drove me around our country roads for about 30 minutes on Sunday; otherwise, I was home. I was able to maintain my regular walking schedule, and most days, I walked between 2 and 3 miles. I feel like it’s helping with the numbness in my fingers. It had been so long since I put on makeup that I almost forgot how. LOL. But I finally got ready, and we’re out the door.

I’m itching to hit some thrift stores in Wilmington, sit on the beach, and maybe get a little sun on my pale legs. I want to soak up as much beach time as possible because it’s possibly our last trip until August. We will need to come home by Sunday because I have my genetic testing and blood work on Monday. I’m praying my cancer isn’t hereditary. If it is, then I’m considered more predisposed to a recurrence, and additional treatments will be recommended.

Then my third treatment is scheduled for Friday, June 27th. Afterwards, I’ll have another CT scan to determine if the three treatments have done their job and if I can now have surgery. For all you prayer warriors, I’d appreciate your prayers that I can have my tentatively scheduled surgery on July 23rd. I do want to say that if I need to have a 4th treatment, I’d prefer that to risking a surgery that would involve removing sections of my colon. I’m just praying the cancer has shrunk away from any of my other organs.

As always, I appreciate all the cards, messages, and prayers. I’ve received so many encouraging words, and if you need encouragement, I’d like to share a quote that was shared with me last week during my dark days.

Wednesday – Saturday, June 18th-21st. – Time to catch up on our time at the beach. Sorry, I haven’t been updating daily, but I’ve been feeling so good this week and haven’t had a lot to share. It’s truly remarkable compared to my previous treatment. Although the first week was hard, this week has been a breeze. We’ve spent the week taking early morning walks (3 miles each day), shopping, and enjoying the sun and sound of the waves rolling in on the beach. I’ve had so many people amazed that I’m able to keep up this pace, only two weeks since my 2nd treatment. I know that I’m blessed, and so many of your prayers have contributed to my well-being.

I told Brad this morning that I almost feel guilty for feeling good. I know that so many are having such a hard time with their treatments and are weak and hurting. I may be in the same situation after next Friday’s treatment. There is no way to predict. For those of you who are struggling, know that I am praying for you to regain your strength and faith so that you can overcome the treatments and regain your health.

June 22 – 28th. – Week 3 After Treatment #2

Sunday – Wednesday, June 22-26 – Good morning, friends. It’s Wednesday morning, and I’m catching up after returning from our beach trip last week. We traveled home on Sunday, and I have to say, I wasn’t ready to return to real life. I felt so good while we were at the beach that it was easy to forget what was still to come. However, it was good to have that brief escape from reality.

Monday was my genetic testing appointment and blood work. I don’t know any results. However, out of 8 aunts and uncles on my mother’s side, five died from some form of cancer, and another aunt had colon cancer. However, she survived the cancer and lived another 27 years. As a result, they felt I was a strong candidate for taking it a step further and doing the blood work. It’ll take a couple of weeks to receive the results, and I’ll keep you informed.

In the meantime, I’ve been preparing for my third treatment on Friday and working on some upcoming blog ideas.

I have also been giving a lot of thought to the word “Strong“. I’ve had so many people tell me, “You are such a strong person”, “You’ll get through this”. I’ve always considered myself to be determined, motivated, and sometimes stubborn (just ask my husband, LOL). I’ve always felt that if someone can achieve something, if I want it badly enough, I can too. As this relates to my cancer journey, I’ve had the attitude that if this cancer can be beaten, and it has by many, then I can beat it too. If others have survived chemotherapy treatments, then I can too. That’s where I draw my strength from; if anyone can, then so can I. Then, to reinforce my thoughts, I received these messages from two of my prayer warriors, Anne & Patty. I don’t think these are random messages, but rather God answering prayers and confirming my beliefs.

And then this message. One of my favorite bloggers, Yvonne at Stone Gable Blog, shares a Sunday scripture each week. Here is an excerpt from this Sunday’s Scripture.

• In Jesus, you become a new creation.
• For we are God’s masterpiece, created anew in Jesus Christ, so we can do the good things He planned for us all along. Ephesians 2:10
• You will become someone who can face anything life brings with strength. Because when you belong to Jesus, He gives you great power—the Holy Spirit. He is your help, your strength, and your comfort. You are never alone.

Wow, what powerful words, and again, a perfectly timed message. If you’d like to read more from Yvonne’s post, click here – Dots On The Line Segment Of Life – StoneGable

In addition to these sweet messages, I continue to receive words of encouragement, cards, and gifts that humbles me. One of my best friends from high school came to visit me last night and brought me a blanket that she made. It’s so beautiful, and my heart is overflowing with gratitude. It was wonderful to reconnect and catch up on our life experiences. It’s amazing how we move through life and lose touch with those who were once so near and dear to us.

I’ve been feeling good all week, walking 2-3 miles each day, so I’m dreading starting over after this Friday’s treatment. I’m hoping it’s not too difficult. But come what may, I will have the strength to survive it. We are praying that July will be a very busy month. I’ll have a CT scan to find out if the treatments have worked well enough to allow for my surgery to be performed as planned in July. If not, a fourth treatment will be administered, YIKES! So many prayers that the treatments have worked and for the surgery in July!

FRIDAY, June 27 – Chemo Day! Hey friends, I just wanted to pop in before I leave for my third treatment! We are praying for another easy treatment and that with 3 strikes, it’s out of there. That we’ve hit a home run and can go to the next stage, which is the surgery.

I was given a daily inspiration calendar this week from my brother and sister-in-law. I wanted to share todays scripture.

“Rest in Me a while….Focus your attention on Me, your constant Companion. Trust that I will equip you fully for whatever awaits you on your Journey.” Psalm 143:8

Thank you, everyone, for all your prayers.

Saturday, June 28th – Good morning, friends! I want to update you about my doctor’s visit and chemotherapy treatment on Friday. I first met with Dr. Gorsuch, and all my blood work looked good; she feels I’m doing well with my treatments. My fingers and toes’ numbness had almost disappeared since the last treatment, and she considers that a level 1 to 1/2 neuropathy, so we are hoping it stays at that level. We also scheduled my CT scan for July 7th, and they will decide if the cancer is unattached from my colon enough to have surgery on July 23. She warned me that it’s a 50/50 chance. Advised me not to get upset and cry if they decided on a 4th treatment before doing surgery. I’m praying that three treatments did the trick, but I don’t want sections of my colon removed, so if it didn’t work, I’ll gladly have more treatments to avoid a more invasive surgery.

Yesterday’s chemo treatment was similar to the first two, except that the icing of my fingers and toes was somewhat more painful. However, Brad and Jennifer were there to help distract me, and although it was painful at times, I didn’t remove them except to eat my lunch and take one bathroom break. Jennifer brought me Chick-fil-A for lunch, and this God’s Got This button, from her church, lifted my spirits. We had a wonderful visit, and I am so proud of her faith and work in her church. My sister had sent me this message just before my treatments, and it was so on spot for my chemo day.

All is well this morning, and I’m planning to make the most of what I’m calling my steroid day. First, I’ll go for a walk while I feel like it. Then this afternoon, we are taking Rudy for his grooming and plan to do some vintage shopping, followed by dinner with my sister and brother-in-law. Tomorrow, my steroids will begin to wear off, and I’ll be taking it easy for a few days.

Can you believe this is my scripture quote for today? I had to take a photo of the daily inspirational calendar my brother and sister-in-law gave me this past week. Because every day, the message is perfect. It feels like it was written for my journey. I also received this quote from a friend this past week.

What I’ve Learned This Week

• It’s essential to stay active, even during challenging times. I know we sometimes want to hide away when we are troubled or don’t feel our best. I’ve tried to stay as active socially as I can. I didn’t share all my daily activities above, but we had dinner with friends on Wednesday evening, and I spent over two hours having lunch with my girlfriends on Thursday. I did a little thrift store shopping, and you can see my finds on the Dirt Road Adventures tomorrow. These activities make me feel normal and take my mind off my troubles.
• I shared with my friends that I’m considering my diagnosis and treatment as a time to get in the best shape of my life. I’m walking more and eating better. I’m drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcoholic beverages while lifting weights and practicing deep breathing exercises. I’m planning to come through these days in the best shape of my life. I told my friends that it’s like I’m one of those prisoners you see in the movie, where they exercise in their cell and walk out all muscled up. That’s going to be me in November or December when I ring that bell. LOL. Well, maybe not all buff, but I do feel this has been a wake-up call. I plan to use this time to take care of my body and be as healthy as possible by the end of this ordeal. (I wanted to say nightmare, but it could be worse, so I’ll stay with ordeal.)

• Yesterday, my daughter and I discussed the difference between Grace and Mercy. Then, we moved on to the topics of humility and pride. It was a very enlightening conversation, and the hardest for us to describe was the concept of grace. However, I’ve always wanted to be more like my mother, and I know that she was full of grace. She lived her life to give and never expected anything in return. She didn’t want anything in return. She was the most giving person I’ve ever known. She always put others’ needs before her own. I am working on being more like her and pray that one day I will. We talked a lot about her yesterday and I miss her every day.

On my walk, I picked up my mail and had these two inspirational cards that I wanted to share with you. Hope they inspire you as they did me.

June 29 – July 5th – Week One After Treatment #3

The one thing I’m finding is that there’s no predicting how I’ll feel after each treatment. I was feeling so good just before the third treatment and was convinced that I wouldn’t be in as much pain this time. But Chemotherapy is not fun or predictable.

Sunday, June 29th – With my previous two treatments, I felt really good until late in the day on Sunday, or Day 2. However, by Saturday night, I was already feeling some sharp zings in my abdomen. For most of the day on Sunday, I was very tired, and it was obvious that the steroids were wearing off much more quickly this time. I took my pain medication and was in bed by 8:30 Sunday night. At 3 o’clock, I needed more pain medication. However, it didn’t seem to help the pain, and I spent the remainder of the night feeling nauseous. This is the first time I’ve had any nausea during the treatments. I feel it was the pain meds causing it.

Monday, June 30th – I know that Day 3 is always difficult, and this time was no exception. I didn’t have much abdominal pain, but my legs and knees felt like they were about to break. I tried to walk, but it was very uncomfortable, so I walked less than one mile. Although I felt exhausted, my appetite is good, and I’m not experiencing a lot of indigestion. I took it easy most of the day and took the pain medication before bed. The steroids have definitely worn off, and I was up and down all night, going to the bathroom.

Tuesday, July 1st – Although I had a restless night, I woke up feeling slightly better than I did the day before. I was able to walk 2 miles and was hoping I had reached the turning point in this treatment. By afternoon, the pain had returned, and I needed rest. I spent the afternoon in bed, and to take my mind off the discomfort, I read On Fire by John O’Leary. Wow, if there’s ever a book that will pull you out of a pity party, it’s this book. I felt ashamed to be lying in bed all afternoon when my situation seemed so minor in comparison to the suffering of others. This quote from the book spoke to me.

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” Vivian Greene

John also talks about “WHY ME”. If we choose to be the victim, we may rage at God, “Why Me”. But we can choose to be a victor instead of a victim. It’s all in how we ask the questions, “why me?”!

“In the middle of the storm, we can choose to be a victor. To recognize that a disease is a gift, the walls can’t contain our spirit, the fire has refined and strengthened our character, and the best days are in front of us. We lift our hands, feel the rain on our face, and dance. Why me? We know this is leading us somewhere. We know that this storm isn’t the end. We’re just waiting for the first sunbeam. Why me?” John O’Leary

I believe that everything happens for a reason, and although I’m suffering now, God has a plan. Brad and I have called it a wake-up call. A time to slow down and be thankful for our family and friends. To not take a moment for granted. If you’ve never read On Fire, I recommend it. I cried several times, but his message of faith is very strong. It will make you want to be a better person.

Wednesday, July 2 – It’s Day 5, and I wish I could say that all that positive thinking helped me to have a better night. Even with all my pain medication, I slept very little. Not only was I experiencing leg and abdominal pain, but my head hurt, and I felt like my skin was irritated. I was up and down the entire night. I’m praying for a better day. Chemo is no fun. I feel like I’m radioactive with all the zaps and zings in my body. However, I have faith this will pass, and I’ll be feeling good again.

In other news, I’ve been weighing myself each morning, and although I’d gained back some of the weight I lost before this last treatment, I’m at an all-time low this morning. I’m eating well, so it has to be the chemo causing the weight loss. Brad and I have been strategizing for meals to help me gain weight. I want to be strong for my surgery and the treatments that will follow. So it’s two eggs and toast with butter for breakfast today.

“I will be your God throughout your lifetime.. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you. Isaiah 46:4

Thursday, July 3rd – Good morning, friends. I’m so thankful for a good night’s sleep and feel that the worst of this treatment’s side effects are over. I was able to walk 1 mile late yesterday, but I’m hoping to get back to my regular routine today.

We would normally be at the beach for the 4th of July and will miss all the festivities this year. However, Jennifer and Jason are coming this evening, and Brad is preparing a Low Country Boil for just the four of us. It won’t be the big bash we usually have, but I’m excited that we can celebrate and hopefully enjoy the pool.

Just as I’m starting to feel better, it’s time for me to isolate. So, the remainder of the weekend we will be at home, avoiding crowds. Each of my isolation periods has coincided with a holiday weekend. Memorial Day, Father’s Day, and now the 4th of July weekend. But this is just one season of my life, and I know I’ll be celebrating all those holidays next year. The most important thing is to stay healthy and recover. I’ll be rejoicing at the end of this journey. The sun is shining, and today is going to be a beautiful day.

I received two messages today that I want to share with you, first, from my friend Christy. Wow, Christy, I love this….

“Bring the dark to the light!  The devil want us cornered, scared and afraid!  The Lord is light – He tells us to bear one another’s burdens – how are we supposed to if people don’t know what we are going through….“

And thank you, Patty, for your encouragement.

I hope you have big plans for the weekend and stay safe.

Happy Friday, July 4th – Good morning! Just a quick update on our pre-July 4th gathering here at The Ponds. The weather could not have been more perfect for an evening by the pool. I enjoyed floating around and catching up with Jennifer. The warm sun felt so good on my legs.

Brad prepared a small Low Country Boil for us, which was delicious, and then we enjoyed a homemade Hershey’s Bar Cake from my sister-in-law and brother. It’s the first sugar I’ve had in weeks, and I must say it was amazingly delicious. It tasted as good as it looked. Thank you for your hard work, Beverly.

I also wish I could say that I’m completely out of pain, but I’m not. The leg pain persists, especially at night. I was able to get some relief with a heated neckwrap I placed around my knees. I’m praying that it will be gone in a few days, like the last treatment. The next four days will be pretty boring. Just staying home and maybe floating in the pool. Have a blast today!

Saturday, July 5th – As the first week after my 3rd treatment comes to an end, I am reflecting on faith and trust. It has been a hard week and a time when fear wants to take control of me. Especially at night when the stinging and zapping pains are worse. That’s the time when it’s hard to fight fear and trust that God has this. Sometimes, it feels easier to give in to the fear. But the only remedy for fear is trust. To give my worries to god and trust that he will see me through these dark days.

I was sent “Healed of Cancer” by Dodie Osteen. If you have never heard her story, you need to look it up. It’s pretty incredible. In 1981, she was diagnosed with liver cancer and given a few weeks to live. Without any treatments, she is now 91 years old. It’s an incredible story of faith and determination.

Here is a passage from her book that I would like to share with you, and one that I believe anyone facing a devastating diagnosis should read. “God wants you to live a long, healthy, productive life. But your healing doesn’t just automatically happen. You must fight your sickness with God’s word and your faith. Doctors say it is a well-known fact that a feisty person, a fighter, can overcome disease and sickness better than a passive person. There is something in the immune system that goes to work for you when you become a fighter. Make up your mind that you do not want to die. Plead your case with God. If you have any unforgiveness in your heart, if you have anything in your life that is not pleasing to God, turn away from it. Release it to Jesus. Give your case to God, (“casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7)). “

What I’ve Learned This Week

• I’ve learned that the chemotherapy treatments are not predictable and that I’ll have to fight fear with each one.
• That God can heal me, but I can’t sit passively by and expect a miracle. I must ask for God’s healing and trust that with my determination and faith, I will be healed.

I have my CT scan on Tuesday to determine whether I’m ready for surgery. My prayer is that the cancer has shrunk away from my colon. That my surgeon can successfully remove all the cancer without removing any parts of the colon. I am so thankful for the many prayers and well wishes I receive daily. I know that your prayers, along with mine, are being answered.

Psalm 103: 1-5 – Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits. Who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, who satisfies your mouth with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagles.

July 6 – 12th – Week Two After Treatment #3

Hey friends, I finally made it through the first week after treatment, and I’m feeling much better this week. We walked 3 miles early on Sunday morning to avoid the rain moving into our area. When the rain started, we spent the remainder the day, being lazy and reading.

Monday, July 7th – Good news today! I received the results of my genetic testing, and my cancer is not hereditary. This means the blood work didn’t reveal any gene mutations. It doesn’t explain why I have cancer, but it means that I’m not genetically predisposed to having cancer, and therefore, my daughter and sister are not either. This also means that once I’m cancer-free, I’ll not need extended treatments.

Tuesday, July 8th – Today is the day! Brad and I left at the crack of dawn for a 7:15 appointment. I had my CT scan to determine if the chemo has worked. I’m tentatively scheduled for surgery, but it will depend on whether the cancer has shrunk enough. If not, I’ll need a 4th chemo treatment. Praying that is not the case.

The morning began with so many texts, and emails with words of encouragement and prayers that the results would be good. My heart is full and overflowing with gratitude for so many praying for me. I shared these photo’s of the sun rising as we traveled to Greensboro. It felt like a sign of hope for me.

I don’t know when I’ll know the results but your continued prayers are appreciated.

Wednesday, July 9th – I received a copy of my CT scan results on my Chart today, but don’t have a clue if it’s good or not. My doctor’s office called and asked me to come in for another CA-125 blood test. So back to Greensboro we went. I hope this means that the CT scan looks good and my doctor wants to see if my Cancer Antigen levels are lower. It appears I’ll not know for sure until my Friday morning appointment.

Thursday, July 10th – This morning, I received the results of my CA-125 bloodwork, and it has dropped to 224, which is a significant decrease since my first test, which was 1,508. (Normal is between 0-38.1) Tomorrow’s appointment is at 8:00 AM, so we will be heading out early again. I will have more information at that time. In the meantime, I’m continuing to pray for good results to avoid a 4th chemo treatment.

A friend sent me this scripture, and I’m leaning on these words today.

Philippians 4:6-7 –  Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Friday, July 11th – Hey friends, today has been a roller coaster of emotions. First, so many of you have been praying that I’d get to have my surgery in July. That the chemo has worked. The chemotherapy has been effective, and my scan appears significantly improved compared to the original results. My cancer antigen level has come down from 1,508 to 224. However, there is still a lot going on inside my body, and Dr. Tucker feels a 4th treatment before surgery is needed. So I’ll have another treatment on July 18th, and then my surgery is scheduled for August 18th.

The surgery is going to be much more invasive than I had hoped, and therefore, she wants to perform the surgery at Chapel Hill instead of the hospital in Greensboro, where I’m receiving treatments. This is a precautionary measure to ensure she has a second oncologist surgeon on standby in case complications arise. Additionally, the hospital is better equipped to handle emergencies if complications arise, either during or after the surgery. Some other details that were upsetting are as follows. I’ll be fitted for a colostomy bag as a precaution. She expects there will be a need to remove some areas of the colon, but hopefully without the need for a bag. Even if that is necessary, it should be a short-term, temporary situation. I don’t have lung or liver cancer; however, there are areas where the disease is evident on the outside of those organs, along with the colon. Which means I will have a long incision. They will be working from my chest area to my pelvic area. The risk of damage to other organs during the operation exists. There is a possibility of intensive care after surgery and I will be in the hospital for 4-10 days. I must admit that tears were shed at this point. I’m feeling better as I write this, but still the fear is there. I’m praying hard for strength and positivity.

With all that said, I’m thankful for another treatment before surgery, and my prayers are for this treatment to really do a number on those cancer cells. I’m praying they are going to be amazed when they operate and none of the precautions are going to be necessary.

The most positive note about my visit is that Dr. Tucker said this is just a reshuffling of the treatment plans. Most likely, I will only have two treatments after surgery. Not a guarantee, but still hopeful that I’ll be finishing up all my treatments on the same time schedule as before.

My sister-in-law sent me this prayer. She had it on a note card and carried it with her throughout all her treatments & surgery. I plan to do the same.

“In God I trust and I will not be afraid. God, when I am afraid of the unknown, instill in me that you will always watch over me. Reinforce my faith so that fears are disspated. Amen!”

Saturday, July 12th – I’m feeling braver today! Yesterday’s news rocked my faith a little. I’ve felt at peace about my healing, and the harsh details of my upcoming surgery caused fear to rush in, and all the peace I’ve felt disappeared. It’s really just fear of the unknown. I know that God will be with me and my surgeons every step of the way.

I’m feeling calmer today. My determination is kicking back in, and I will not let fear consume me. Brad keeps reminding me that the Doctor was presenting me with the worst-case scenarios and that nothing has really changed. We knew I’d have to have the surgery, and hopefully, this 4th treatment will not be an added treatment but just a reshuffling of the 6 treatments we had expected. All the precautions are taken for my benefit to ensure the best possible outcome.

I plan to use this next treatment and all the days in between to build my strength and endurance so that I can recover from the surgery quickly.

It’s a beautiful day, and I plan to make the most of each moment. We are celebrating a dear friend’s birthday at the lake today, and then Brad and I plan to travel to the beach for a few days. I’ll be back for chemo on Friday. I hope you have a blessed week.

My friend sent me this scripture as a reminder. Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

July 13th-19th – Week 3 After Treatment #3

Good Morning, Friends! I suppose you’ve been wondering where I’ve been. We left for the beach on Sunday, and each day, I’ve started to add to my journal. However, I honestly just needed a break. It’s Thursday morning, and we’re traveling home today. We have had a good time at the beach, and there were moments that I completely forgot that anything was wrong with me. I’ve been walking 3 miles a day and using my weights. I’m focused on being strong and healthy for my surgery. My brother loaded us up with lots of vegetables before we left, so we’ve enjoyed fresh-from-the-garden meals. In addition, we ate at some of our favorite restaurants!

I’ve been praying for strength and faith. For the most part, I’ve been very optimistic. However, the doubts and fears still want to creep up on me when I least expect it. For the last few days I’ve felt a little disconnected, and I’m unsure how to describe that feeling. It’s as though I’m set apart from everyone else, and that everything is going on around me isn’t real. It’s almost like I’m dreaming and need to wake up.

Brad keeps telling everyone how proud he is of me, and for some reason, that makes me feel even more isolated and different. I’ve not told him that because I know it’s crazy to feel that way. I guess I want to be normal again. To not be the different one, the one everyone feels sorry for. And before you say it, I know that day will come! I’m just sharing with you how I’m feeling in the moment because it really helps me to write it down and then let it go.

We are traveling home today because I have my 4th treatment on Friday. I’ve received so many encouraging notes and messages that have lifted me up this week. Also, my scripture calendar has been spot on, and just the messages I needed to read. I thought I’d share them with you.

Today, I am praying that this 4th treatment really does a number on those remaining cancer cells. I’m praying for healing in those areas around my colon, lung, and liver so that my surgery will be less invasive. Tomorrow, I will be envisioning the chemo zapping those cells and spreading to all the needed areas.

Thank you, each and every one, for your messages of hope and faith. I am so blessed to have you cheering me on and for all your prayers.

Friday, July 18th – Saturday, July 19th – My 4th treatment went smoothly as usual. My CA-125 level was slightly higher than last time – 287. My liver enzymes were a little high, so I’ve been taken off my cholesterol medications until my treatments are over. So naturally, I wanted dessert for lunch! I’ve been introduced to Everything Bundt Cake, and I think I’m addicted. There’s one in the shopping center next to the hospital, and I sent Brad for four cupcakes. Luckily, they only sell those by the dozen!!! I did freeze four!!!

As I was checking in at the cancer center, I saw this note tacked to the wall and had to snap a photo of it. Don’t you love it?

This was the scripture quote for the day.

Saturday, July 19th – I’m feeling good today because of the steroids. I’m taking advantage of the good day with a 3-mile walk and meeting some friends for dinner. I hope you have a blessed and wonderful weekend.

July 20- 26th – Week one of treatment # 4.

I’m happy to say Good Morning, friends! I’m happy to report that so far, my pain with treatment #4 is minimal. I began to feel extremely tired on Sunday, and I can tell that the steroids once again wore off much quicker than on previous treatments. However, I was able to sleep without pain medication on Sunday night.

Monday, July 21st – I’m up early on Monday morning and still not experiencing much pain. I was dreading this 4th treatment so much and prayed it wouldn’t be as painful. I feel that the many prayers for fewer side effects have been answered. I had asked my doctor for a stronger pain medication before this last treatment. We had the prescription filled although it was very expensive. I’m hoping that I’ll not need the medication at all. Brad said, naturally, since we paid a fortune for it, I won’t even need it now, LOL. But, I’d pay twice as much to avoid feeling like I did after the last treatment.

I was able to walk 2 miles today, and the leg pain was minimal. Yay! My goal is to be as healthy as possible for my upcoming surgery next month. I believe that we can overcome many obstacles with the right mindset. Today, I’m focused on healing and not giving in to my fears. I’m praying that this treatment is attacking the cancer and removing it from my body. And for strength to endure what is yet to come.

“Rest in Me a while….Focus your attention on Me, your constant Companion. Trust that I will equip you fully for whatever awaits you on your Journey.” Psalm 143:8

Tuesday, July 22nd – I’m still feeling better than I did after my last treatments! I am experiencing fatigue and some mild indigestion, but overall I feel this treatment has been the mildest so far. I have taken Tynole PM at night and used the heating pad on my abdomen and knees. I was able to sleep better, but did have a few hours of restlessness. It wasn’t the pain that kept me awake, but more indigestion and a jittery feeling throughout my body. I feel radioactive at times. My skin feels raw, and I want to crawl out of my own skin. Thankfully, the feeling wore off and I was able to go back to sleep for a few hours. Thank you to all of you who have been checking in on me and sending me messages of encouragement. I received this reminder from Patty this morning. It was a helpful reminder as I contemplated whether I felt like walking today or not. LOL!

July 23-26 – Wednesday to Saturday – I made it through another week, one after chemo. As I shared on Tuesday, the side effects have been milder this time. I’ve only needed Thynold PM at night and the heating pad. Each day, I’ve felt my strength returning and have been able to gradually increase my walking back to 3 miles per day.

On Thursday, some friends brought us lunch and a gift basket filled with various goodies that I’ll be able to use while convalescing after surgery. My brother and sister-in-law also visited with another basket full of goodies. It felt like Christmas around here. Both gifts were so special and so thoughtful. One of the gifts was this Courage Angel. Isn’t she inspiring!

On Friday night, I experienced more nerve pain in my feet. Although the numbness was slow to return to my toes and fingers after this treatment, it is now back. I’m trying to exercise as much as possible and drink plenty of water to hopefully alleviate that feeling. The good news is it seems to be slowly going away after about 3 weeks, and it’s not getting any worse. I’m still waking with anxious feelings and the jittery feeling under my skin. I feel it’s coming from the chemo, and hopefully it will stop in a few days.

My surgery is 3 weeks from tomorrow, and to help pass the time, we plan to go to the beach next week. It helps to keep my mind off what’s to come. I hope to have time to shop and enjoy the beach.

Right now, I’m praying for the strength to overcome the fear of surgery. I’m working on building my strength and endurance so that I can recover quickly. I’m praying for good health leading up to the surgery date and that this 4th Chemo treatment reduces all the cancer cells away from my organs.

I am certainly grateful for all the messages of hope, encouragement, and prayers that I receive daily. This journey is so much easier knowing that you are cheering me on.

I’m also grateful for all the flowers in my garden. I didn’t plant any of them this year, but Mother Nature has been so generous. I’m not sure who enjoys them more, me or the bees and butterflies.

“In God I trust and I will not be afraid. God, when I am afraid of the unknown, instill in me that you will always watch over me. Reinforce my faith so that fears are disspated. Amen!”

Week of July 27th – August 2nd – Week 2 After Treatment #4

July 27th-28th – I’ve said this before, and it’s so true! Each treatment is so different, and although this 4th one was much easier, there are still some lingering issues. I mentioned last week that the nerve pain and tingling in my feet started late this time. Both Saturday night and Sunday, I experienced a lot of sharp pains. On Sunday night, I couldn’t go to sleep, and then I finally remembered that one of the gift baskets I received included some compression socks. At 3:00 a.m., I was still awake, so I decided to put on the socks. Oh my gosh, what a relief. I had no idea how much they would help. They resemble sports socks, but with open toes. They are very comfortable and didn’t make me hot. I was finally able to fall asleep. If you are interested in checking them out, here’s a link – Neuropathy Socks 2 pairs.

Today is my last day of isolation, and I’m staying inside for the most part. After not sleeping, I didn’t get up until late, and it was already miserably hot. So I wasn’t able to walk. Hopefully, the beach will be cooler and I’ll get back on schedule.

We are now waiting for my pre-opt appointment on August 8th. In the meantime, I hope to stay busy and not let fear of the surgery overwhelm me. I recently saw this prayer, and I’m praying it daily.

2 Timothy 1:7 – You have not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind! Fear is not from God. Fear is from the enemy and has no place in my life. I reject and resist fear in all its forms and command it to go away from me now, in the name of Jesus Christ.

Tuesday – Saturday, July 29 – August 2nd – Happy Saturday! I guess you thought I’d forgotten about my journal. The truth is, I thought about writing an update every day, but didn’t have the words. I guess I wanted to let go of my worries and live in the “now” for a few days.

I’ve been reading The Beach is Calling 90 Devotions for Rest & Relaxation, a gift from my brother and SIL. Each morning I feel blessed and renewed from the comparison to the scriptures, to the healing powers of the ocean, and God’s amazing creation. I’ve always been more creative and inspired while I’m at the beach. When Brad was still traveling, I’d come by myself for a few days, and it was a time of renewal for me. Without the distractions of our everyday life, I’d read and I’d paint. I’d write long messages to myself and others. I’d jot down all the ideas that popped into my heart and head.

This week has been a little of that. Each morning, I’d read one or two of the devotions, and it would take me back to those earlier years at the beach cottage. So instead of focusing on my cancer journey, I’ve been focusing on creative ideas. I’ve jotted down so many that I want to complete before my surgery. I love creating and sharing ideas with you, but it breaks my heart to know I’ll be unable to blog for several days, and I may not feel like doing anything creative for weeks. Before we leave for home, I plan to do more shopping and gather my supplies for all the fall projects I want to make.

Brad and I have walked each day and almost got caught in a thunderstorm. The lightning was fierce and scary as we ran for home. We made it back just as the first raindrops fell. I sat on the porch and watched the storm until a loud boom of thunder had me running inside. Rudy was already hiding in the bathroom. We have heard thunder almost every day as the heat and humidity assure us that a storm will pop up before the day is over. In between all the storms, we have enjoyed meals with our beach family, and a girls’ day out shopping. One of my favorite things to do is sit on the porch and read. There have been a few cooler moments that I’ve enjoyed watching the clouds roll in. Walking on the beach and reading has filled the rest of our beach time. I’ve tried to keep the worries and fears at bay, but they still creep up on me.

Today I’m reading A Gift From The Sea! I read it every summer, and today’s my day for this year. I gain so much from this tiny book. You can see the message I wrote to any guest who might pick up and read it while staying at our cottage. If you have never read it, I highly recommend it. It’s one of those books that speaks to you differently each time you read it.

Today’s excerpt from The Beach is Calling – “Father, “You go before me and follow me, you place your hand of blessing on my head” (Psalm 139:5 NLT) Fill my heart with peace and my body with health. Give me the confidence to trust you fearlessly today.”

Final words for the week. I am blessed to have this tiny beach cottage to escape to. Our time here has taken on a whole new meaning since my cancer diagnosis. Our short trips have helped to pass the time between treatments and take my mind off what’s to come. I am blessed with an amazing husband, great friends and family, and so many of you who are following along on my journey, praying and encouraging me with your messages of hope! To each one, Thank You! Words cannot express what your continued support means to me. May God Bless You And Keep You Safe!

August 3 – 9th – Week 3 after treatment #4

Sunday – Tuesday – August 3 – 5 – Wow, what a difference in the temperatures. It feels like fall at the beach. I’ve started each morning on the cottage porch with my coffee, a light jacket, and a blanket for my legs. When we have walked, I start with my jacket but end with it tied around my waist. I know it’s not going to last, but I’m certainly enjoying this glorious weather while it lasts. I hope you are experiencing some relief from the heat also.

Our escape to the beach is coming to a close as the pressures of reality are starting to weigh on my mind. I have things that need to be done before my surgery, and much as I’d like to run away and pretend none of this is real, I’ve got to face it.

I’m so thankful for these calm days, for the cooler weather and devotions that have helped me to slow down and be present. Today’s message was Calming The Storm from The Beach is Calling.

Psalm 65:7 “You silence the roar of the seas, the roaring of their waves, and the tumult of the peoples.” 

I also received this quote: “Courage is the power of the mind to overcome fear.” Martin Luther King, Jr.

I’ve had several people suggest that I stop calling this journal My Cancer Journal, but instead My Healing Journal. You know, I think they’re right. Instead of owning this cancer, I know my body will be rid of it very soon. So here’s my new Journal title…

What do you think? Is this a positive step forward? Thank you to all who brought this to my attention, and as always, for all the many prayers.

Wednesday – Saturday, August 4 – 9th – After returning home from the beach, the remainder of the week was spent preparing for the upcoming surgery. Friday was a very hard day. We went to Chapel Hill for my pre-opt visit. Although I had already spoken to my surgeon a few weeks ago, this visit brought back all the fears and worries. The seriousness of the surgery and a long recovery were foremost in yesterday’s discussion. Another fear is that I will need a colostomy bag after the surgery, which could be permanent. All the fear that I’ve been praying against returned full force. I’ve been praying daily not to let the fear overwhelm me. As we traveled home, I opened this journal and read all the positive scriptures and messages I’ve received from so many of you. Slowly, I began to feel somewhat calm again.

After returning home, we had an appointment with our attorney to talk about our wills and to set up a power of attorney. It was a lot for one day, to say the least. I’m trying to be brave and fearless, but failing at the moment.

Before the day was over, I received my blood work test results, and they showed that my red blood cell count is not in the normal range, which indicates anemia. It was borderline, so I’m hoping it will not interfere with the planned surgery. I feel good, and I’m eating lots of protein, so I’m assuming it’s a result of the chemo. Trying not to worry about that until there’s a reason to.

After a good night’s sleep, I’m feeling sad and still praying for strength. I found this scripture that spoke to me.

“You are only human, and the swirl of events going on all around you will sometimes feel overwhelming. Rather than scolding yourself for your humanness, remind yourself that I am both with you and within you.” Colossians 1:27

My daughter told me this week that she believes the doctors are going to be amazed when they operate on me. She believes that the cancer will be so reduced or gone that they will think they have the wrong person on the table. I pray that she is right. That this last treatment and all the prayers have worked to rid me of the dangerous cancer cells.

This last week before surgery will be busy preparing for my hospital stay. I’m praying for strength and a positive attitude. I’m praying for my doctors and everyone involved in my surgery. I’m asking god for peace and calm as I prepare for the weeks ahead. I’m scheduled to be the first surgery of the day on Monday, August 18th. If you can join me in my prayers, it will be greatly appreciated. I received this message this week and know that I am stepping forward with faith that God will watch over me and the doctors and will give me the strength to face whatever is to come.

August 10-16th – Week Before Surgery

Good Morning, friends! I wanted to give you an update because many of you have reached out to me after I shared my fears after my pre-op visit. First, I’m feeling calmer and at peace today. We’ve had a lovely weekend with friends and family. I’ve realized that by letting my fears overwhelm me, I’m resisting God’s grace. My daughter called to share that she had been receiving this message from several sources, and when her pastor started his sermon with the same message, she felt it was meant for her to share it with me. “Don’t focus on how big your worries are; instead, focus on how big God is.”

I’m planning to stay busy this week and keep my thoughts and attitude positive. Once again, thank you for all your encouragement.

Wednesday, August 13th – The week is flying by. My friends are all keeping me busy so that I’m not dwelling on what’s to come. In my spare time, I’m working on some projects to share with you in the coming weeks.

Through it all, I’m feeling God’s presence in all that I do. On Monday, Brad dropped off some clothing at the Salvation Army Thrift Store. As he was getting into the car to leave, he heard a gentleman ask, “Do you want a receipt?” and Brad said no. Then the gentleman asked, “Is there anything you’d like us to pray for?”. Brad went back and shared my name, explaining why we needed their prayers. The gentleman wrote down our names and promised to pray for us. Brad was in tears and still shaking from the experience when he arrived home. Words cannot express how that encounter affected us. We are feeling God’s love all around us. The messages of faith and hope have been pouring in from so many people that I’ve never personally met.

And then my dear friends and family have been so supportive. Our dear friends treated us to dinner at a favorite restaurant on Saturday night, and my sister & BIL treated us to a loving lunch on Sunday.

Tuesday, my girlfriends took me out of town on a fun shopping excursion. Then on Tuesday evening, we were treated again to a lovely dinner at a friend’s home. Today, I’m meeting friends for lunch. My heart is overflowing.

One of my dear friends gifted me this encouraging book, A Treasury of Miracles for Friends. I know I will love reading it while I recover. I also received a lovely hand-crocheted prayer shawl from another friend.

I wish I could share all the cards and sweet messages I’ve received, but my computer would probably die before I finished. Please know if I fail to mention or share, it’s not because I don’t appreciate or value you. Every message has lifted me and encouraged me. I’ll never be able to express how deeply I appreciate each one of you.

The remainder of this week will be spent preparing on Monday. We plan to lay low to avoid any risks of picking up a germ that would prevent my scheduled surgery. We have plenty to keep us busy as we are having a large portion of our house repainted while I’m away. This will involve removing most of the decor from the kitchen, living room, dining room, and loft areas. Yikes! And double yikes, because Brad will be in charge of moving everything back in place!!

My prayer for the remainder of the week is that I’ll stay healthy and so will my surgical team. That I will go into this operation with a healed body, and the surgery will be minimally invasive. That God will watch over me and keep me safe. I appreciate all your prayers.

Saturday, August 16th – Good morning, friends! The days are flying by, and the countdown is on. I received the official call from UNC Chapel Hill yesterday, and my surgery is scheduled for 7:30 AM EDT on Monday, August 18th. I will need to be there at 5:30 AM. Which means we will be leaving home at 4:00 AM.

We had originally thought we would spend Sunday night in Chapel Hill, but since tomorrow will be spent on a liquid diet and a colon cleanse, I felt I’d be more comfortable in my own house and bed.

I’m still feeling physically good and somewhat at peace about the surgery. I know that God has got this, and I’ll be home soon, on my way to being 100% healed.

I’ve met so many wonderful people through my journal, and one of those forever friends is Gail. She’s been on this journey with me, and tears were pouring as I watched the video of her getting to ring the bell this week. I’m so excited for Gail, and she said, “You are next”!

The hardest part of waiting is staying positive and not letting fear overwhelm me. The scriptures and quotes I’ve received have saved me from going down those dark roads. I thought I’d share yesterday’s daily scripture –

Instead of this negative response, try to view difficulties as blessings in disguise. Make Me your Refuge by pouring out your heart to Me, trusting in Me at all times. Psalm 55:17

My sister is organizing a group prayer time. She’s asking those who can to take a moment to pray for me on Sunday, August 17th, at 5:30 PM EDT. I also hope you will pray and send me good thoughts as I go into the operating room at 7:30 AM EDT on Monday.

My prayer request is that God will hold me in his hand and protect me during the surgery, and that the cancer will be gone from my body. That my colon and other organs will be free of cancer, making the surgery minimally invasive. To quote my daughter, “the doctors will think they are operating on the wrong person because the cancer will be so diminished”. Pray for the surgeons and all who will be physically caring for me.

Many have asked about how they can keep up with me after the surgery. Brad plans to make updates to my journal until I’m able to.

Lastly, my friend Diane sent me this prayer that was her mother’s favorite. As I say this prayer, I’m holding my Angel of Courage that my brother & SIL gave me.

She will travel with me to Chapel Hill on Monday, and I’ll let Jennifer and Brad hold onto her for me.

Day of Surgery – August 18th, 2025

We began our travels to the UNC Chapel Hill Hospital Surgical Center at 4:00 AM today!  Brad and Jennifer will be with me until 7:30, when my surgery begins.  Then I’ll be in the hands of the surgeons and God!  Here is today’s scripture from my daily calendar.  It is so appropriate, as I know God will be fighting for me and working on my behalf while I’m resting under the effects of anesthesia.   

UPDATE- It’s 2:22 PM and Rachel’s surgery is complete. The surgeon said that she did very well. No colostomy bag was needed and they feel like they were able to get all of the cancer. Thank you so much for all the prayers and support. We appreciate each and every one! Please keep her in your prayers as she recovers!

Brad

Tuesday 8/19/25 Rachel had a good restful night. Dr. Tucker saw her early this morning and said the biggest concern is how the two places they removed in her Colon and her diaphragm heal. They did remove the catheter this morning. She will be in the hospital until at least Friday and possibly a little longer. Her blood pressure is a little low this morning but she feels OK. Prayers for healing will be appreciated.

Brad

Wednesday 8/20/25 As the day progressed yesterday her blood pressure didn’t go up as hoped and they gave her 1 liter of blood. Even though blood pressure was low she felt good was able to walk a little bit in the hall and was able to walk to the bathroom with help. By late afternoon blood pressure was back to normal. The tube draining her stomach and running out her throat and nose is irritating her throat. They are giving her a spray to help with that. She also has two drains coming out of her abdomen. Recovery is moving slowly by design. They told us after the surgery that 95% of the population will never have a surgery as invasive as this one. We are glad they didn’t tell us that prior to the surgery although they did stress it was a major surgery. Todays goal is to get the tube out of her stomach and walk more. Also hopefully she can start a clear liquid diet. Her energy level is lower than yesterday but hopefully that will increase through the day. Please continue prayers for recovery,

Brad

Thursday, 8/21/25. Yesterday had some highs and lows. As for the highs, she walked a long distance 3 different times. She also sat up a few times with her feet on the floor. She is very alert and knows exactly whats going on. As for the lows, the tube draining her stomach running through her nose is driving her crazy. It has her throat irritated. The gave her a spray but it does not really help. The tube has to stay in until she passes gas. Hopefully that happens today. Also, she did not sleep much last night. She was awake from midnight to 4AM. Of course 4:30 AM is when they come in to check vitals and give her pain meds. She is napping pretty good right now while I am typing this. The staff here is amazing and they think she is doing great considering what her body went through with this surgery. I continue to ask for prayers for her complete recovery.

A doctor just came in and based on the amount of fluid coming out her tube I may be a couple more days before the tube can come out. This will extend our stay a few extra days. Meaning we will be here at least 10 days.

Brad

Friday 8/22/25 Rachel had a good day yesterday. She walked 4 times around the hallways on our floor. She also had her first bowel movement which was a major step. On the negative side she is still producing a lot of the substance they are pumping out of her stomach. That needs to slow down before they will consider taking out the tube. As stated before the tube irritates her and hurts to talk. She also has a lot of pain when her meds start to wear off. She is not on a med schedule now and gets them on request. This was the second night in a row that she did not get a lot of sleep. I can tell between the tube and the pain they have weaken her a bit. It is more noticeable later in the day. We continue to pray that she will be able to lose the tube soon.

Brad

Saturday 8/23/25 Yesterday was a roller coaster of a day. She did not get much sleep Wednesday or Thursday night. The tube was very irritating. Her spirits were the lowest I had seen them. The doctor came in and talked to her and reinforced that the point she is at is not uncommon. She felt a little better after that conversation. They did tell her that due to the output of the tube it would need to stay in a least a couple more days. Yuck!! They also decided to give her 1 unit of blood, potassium, and magnesium because they were a little low. Thats when miracles started and prayers were answered. As the day went along the output from the tube became less and less. They decided to clamp off the tube for 4 hours to see what would happen. She was fine after the four hours and they DECIDED TO TAKE OUT THE TUBE!!! She is doing and feeling so much better. Her biggest issue now is drainage and irritation from the tube being pulled out. They took her down to xray to see if everything still looked good. We have not heard the results yet. Also she broke out with a minor rash on her back and her temp was slightly high but is back to normal now. She slept good last night for the first time in awhile. This morning they started her on a clear liquid diet. Please continue to pray for her recovery. We feel we see light at the end of the tunnel.

Brad

Sunday 8/24/25 Overall Saturday was a very good day. She was able to have a liquid diet for lunch and dinner, consisting of broth, Jell-O, yogurt and the best sweet tea. She actually ordered Grits this morning. They are on a liquid diet!! Who knew!! She increased the distance on her walks. We had a visit from her sister and brother-in-law. They have been here 3 times now and I have failed to recognize how supportive they have been. Rachel is now on pain meds by request. She had such a good day that she waited too long to request her pain meds and the pain hit her late evening and was pretty severe. Once she received them the pain subsided. LESSON LEARNED!! She had a good nights sleep and seems very alert this morning.

Brad

Week One After Surgery – August 25-August 31st

Monday – August 25th – It’s hard to believe it’s been a week since Rachel’s surgery, and we are still in the hospital. The hospital and staff have been wonderful, and we are trying to take the recovery process one day at a time. Rachel is no longer receiving IV medications and that’s been a slight adjustment because the pain medications don’t kick in as quickly. She is still taking it slow with her diet. She had mashed potatoes and gravy, along with a few bites of Mac n Cheese, for dinner last night. Sweet tea has remained her favorite treat since she started eating. Reintroducing food to her repaired colon has been challenging and painful, so she’s been very cautious. This morning she ordered scrambled eggs, yogurt and of course sweet tea. The Doctors are assuring us that she’s doing good so hopefully in a few more days we will be home. Thank you for all your continued messages and keep the prayers coming, they are so appreciated.

Brad

Tuesday – August 26th – Rachel slept good again last night. Yesterday was a very good day. She ate very well ( Mashed Potatoes, Collard Greens, Eggs, Chocolate Cake and of course the best sweet tea). She walked a good distance several times. The really big news yesterday was that the two tubes coming from her through her belly came out and they took out the last IV. The only thing left is the IV port they use for Chemo. It is early and they are discussing the possibility of sending her home today. The only hesitation is though she has had BM movement there has not been a solid one. In the event she is released today I will come back and update.

Brad

Wednesday – August 27th – It was another long day yesterday waiting on that elusive BM. Finally, after dinner yesterday afternoon, it happened!!!! That was the final step to be released to go home. We were scheduled to come back Thursday morning to have stitches removed. We ask if they could be removed today to avoid the 1 1/2 hour trip back tomorrow. They are checking to see if that will be ok. Fingers crossed. We have been here for 10 days now and are very excited to be going home. There are still several weeks of recovery and 2 to 3 more chemo treatments left, but we can see the end coming. Our daughter has Rudy, and it will be Friday before we get him back. Boy, have we missed him!!

Brad

Thursday, August 28th – It’s good to be home. However, the trip home was hard on Rachel. First, they wanted to remove the metal staples from her belly. One attempt proved she would need more medication to tolerate the pain. Since her port was still accessible, they gave her a dose of Dilaudid. She had received it for pain on several nights after the surgery and knew it would have an immediate effect. It did the trick, and approximately 40 staples were removed from her abdomen with minimal pain. Then they flushed the port, and we were on our way home. However, the medication made Rachel very woozy-headed, and she is prone to motion sickness. She felt nauseous almost immediately in the car and vomited twice before we made it home. She didn’t feel good the rest of the afternoon. However, she walked twice and ate a good dinner. She said she’s feeling more alert this morning and slept pretty good. She hopes to feel up to taking over the journal updates tomorrow. We are taking it one day at a time. We are just thankful that she came home with all the surgical necessities removed from her body and that the cancer is gone. Two or three more chemo treatments are necessary before she can ring the bell, but I know complete healing is coming soon. Also, thanks for all the messages and prayers.

Brad

Friday, August 29th – Rachel had a very good morning yesterday. She had slept well and I fixed her scrambled eggs for breakfast at her request. After breakfast she wanted to go outside for a short walk. We went a little over quarter of a mile. later she had a decent lunch of tuna salad and mac & cheese. As the day went on her energy dropped and she didn’t have the best afternoon. She was tired and was feeling the pain a little more. She didn’t eat very much for Dinner and was very tired. We went to bed early and just watched TV until about 9:30. She slept pretty good last night but was up a couple times. She slept late this morning but still feels exhausted. She feels she still hasn’t figured out how she needs to handle her pain meds. We are hoping today is a good day.

Brad

Saturday, August 30th- Overall Rachel had a much better day. She walked outside a couple times. Instead of eating full meals she ate small snack throughout the day. That seemed to help. She seems to be discouraged because she feels she’s getting behind on her blog. She is just not up to working yet. Then she read her scripture for yesterday and it was exactly what she needed to hear.

We had friends visit and they brought Rachel her favorite cupcakes from Everything Bundt Cake. Its obvious she’s not herself because she hasn’t eat one yet. Our daughter came in the afternoon and will stay with us for a couple of days. The best part is she brought Rudy back home. We have not seen him in almost two weeks. She had her best night sleep. Maybe because Rudy was back in bed with us!! She only had to take her strong meds once. We are hoping she can increase her calorie intake as she has lost more weight. Please continue to pray for complete healing.

Brad

Sunday August 31st- Yesterday was much the same as the day before. We are trying to be patient and allow her repaired bowel time to heal and return to normal. She can only tolerate small amounts of food at a time. Even small amounts of food result in several BM’s through the day. Which in turn results in more weight loss. If things don’t turn today in terms of BM and losing a few ounces we will call the doctor tomorrow morning. She walked a few times yesterday. On a positive note she had her best night of sleep. Please pray she has a better day today.

Brad

Week 2 Post Surgery Sept. 1st Thru 7th

Monday Sept. 1st- Its hard to believe its been 2 weeks since Rachel’s surgery. Then again it feels like a long time ago. Yesterday was her best day so far. Although she had a few BM’s they have slowed down and not as many as the previous days. Her sister and brother-in-law visited for awhile. They brought us a homemade lasagna. We will have to keep it frozen until Rachel is able to enjoy it. I think their visit helped distract her. She ate very small amounts throughout the day. We felt encouraged that her bowels are starting to function more normally. She woke up uncomfortable this morning with more abdominal pain than usual. However, she is almost certain it is trapped gas. we all know that can be painful. She has made a lot of progress in the last two weeks but she still has a lot of healing in front of her. We both appreciate your support and continued messages and prayers.

Brad

Tuesday, Sept. 2nd – Yesterday reminds me of the old saying One Step Forward Two Steps Back. After the progress she made on Sunday, Monday didn’t go as we had hoped. She woke with what felt like gas pain under her ribs. The pain never went away 100% but did get less as the day went on. Her energy level was very low all day, and she took a couple of naps. She did force herself to walk a couple of times. The pain is still there this morning, but not nearly as bad. She seems to have more energy. She woke, saying she is determined to eat more as she is still losing a few ounces each day. With her limited diet its hard to get her strength back.

Brad

Wednesday Sept. 3rd- Yesterday we saw some improvement. She walked three times and totaled a little over a mile. She also ate a little better than the previous day. She had still lost a few ounces when she weighed this morning. She is still feeling the pain under her ribs. Last night after dinner she had a bowel movement that looked brick red that scared her. She called the hospital and they feel it could be coming from the blood thinner she is taking. However, they do not want her to stop taking that. They said a little blood in the stool is better than developing a blood clot. They were not overly concerned but wanted us to set up an appointment to have her hemoglobin checked today to make sure she’s not losing too much blood. Praying for a good day and that each day gets better.

Brad

Thursday Sept. 4th – We don’t seem to be able to have 2 good days in a row. Rachel’s energy was possibly the lowest I have seen it. She did eat pretty well, but some of it was forced. She also walked a little bit, though you could tell she didn’t want to. Due to the low energy and blood in her stool, we scheduled an appointment to have her hemoglobin level checked, which was done at 1:30 yesterday. The results showed that her blood was a little low, but not enough to warrant a transfusion. They think the blood may be coming from the prescribed blood thinner. They told her to stop taking it for a few days to see if it makes a difference. She does seem a little perkier this morning. Hopefully, that’s a sign that today will be better.

Brad

Friday Sept. 5th- Thursday was much better than Wednesday. Rachel went back to a mostly liquid diet and I think that along with stoping the blood thinner was the right move. She ate a decent amount through out the day. She continued to walk. Our walk after dinner was the most energetic I have seen her. She was feeling frustrated and emotional during the day because she feels the healing is not progressing as fast as she wants. I reminded her that they said this was a 6 week recovery, not a 2 1/2 week recovery. We had friends visit in the afternoon and I was good for her to be able to hear voices beside my own. Our friends also just happen to be neighbors our ours at the beach. There is a shop at the beach Rachel and our friend shop at frequently and they have got to know the staff. The shop sent Rachel a nice gift via our friend. So if your ever in Carolina Beach visit Sumthin Beachie. They are a wonderful shop with wonderful people. Rachel had Grits for dinner(They are on a liquid diet!!). I could tell just watching her that she was feeling better than I had seen her in awhile. After dinner we had a good walk and when we got back she wanted to sit up and play cards. We played Phase 10. She was smiling and joking and we had fun. She slept late this morning and says she feels pretty good this morning. Hopefully this is a turning point.

PS I won the game of Phase 10 but who is keeping score. Brad

Saturday Sept. 6th- All in all Friday was a good day. She wasn’t quite as energetic as Thursday afternoon but still pretty good. She continued her liquid diet and ate pretty well. She continued her walks. The only negative is that her BM’s increased again and there appeared to be a little blood in her stool again. We will have to monitor that today. She felt pretty good after our late evening walk and wanted a Phase 10 rematch. Lets just say I should have declined as she beat me in a massacre. LOL. Please pray for more improvement today.

Brad

Sunday Sept. 6th –Saturday was pretty much the same as the day before. I cant say there was much progress but she didn’t go backwards either. There were periods that her energy level was good then it would fade. Her morning was fairly active but she faded in the afternoon. After dinner she wanted to play Phase 10 again. She enjoys playing games and it helps to keep her mind sharp. She is sleeping late this morning. She was a little up and down during the night but seems to be resting good right now. We are expecting some visitors today and she is looking forward to that. It’s good for her to see somebody besides me!! Hopefully she will show improvement today and that is what we are praying for.

Brad

Week 3 Post Surgery Sept. 8th Thru 141h

Monday Sept. 8th- It’s been 3 weeks since surgery and progress has been slow. I think Rachel had her best day so far yesterday but still far from perfect. She ate a good breakfast yesterday and a decent amount at dinner. She continued her walking. She took a short nap before lunch but was up the rest of the day. A dear friend brought Rachel more homemade protein bars. She had brought some before surgery and they are the one thing Rachel has really enjoyed eating. We also had a visit from Rachels sister and her husband. She says she slept pretty good last night but is feeling a little iffy this morning. She had a good breakfast but stomach still does not feel right.

Her biggest concern is lack of appetite and still losing weight. Although she has been off the blood thinner since last Wednesday, she is still seeing a blood in her stool. The doctor’s office is supposed to check in with her today and we have a followup visit with Dr. Tucker on Thursday. Praying for a much better week and that things settle down.

Brad

Tuesday, September 9th – Yesterday, I feel Rachel turned a small corner. She was able to eat all of her small meals without experiencing many side effects. She walked 3 times, and although each walk was tiring, I can see some of her determination returning. She shared her daily scripture with me and read it multiple times throughout the day.

” I will infuse My strength into you moment by moment, giving you all that you need for this day. Trust Me by relying on My empowering Presence.” 2 Corinthians 13:4

It also helped to talk with Dr. Tucker’s nurse and know that she isn’t overly concerned with the blood in her stool. She did advise trying to reduce her Ibuprofen intake. She has only taken Ibuprofen during the day for pain, and a combination of that and a stronger pain medication at night. Last night, she only took the strong medication and stopped the Ibuprofen. She did experience a little more pain overnight, but hopes she can at least cut back the dosage during the day. We are praying for another good day and appreciate all your messages of encouragement.

Brad

Wednesday Sept. 10th- The doctor suggested cutting back on the Ibuprofen and we tried that yesterday. We split her pills in half. The result was she stayed extremely exhausted all day. She ate well but not as good as the prior day. She is going back to the full dose today to see if that helps. I can already see a difference in her this morning. Obviously she is not ready to reduce pain medication. Since Tylenol is not an option we hope the doctor can give us a safe alternative tomorrow. She said she did sleep pretty well last night. I think today is trending to look a lot like Monday which is a good thing. The healing from this type surgery is very slow and we just have to be patient. Its hard to keep her spirits up but we both know its going to get better.

Brad

Thursday Sept. 11th- Wednesday was by far Rachels best day since surgery. It wasn’t perfect but much better. She did go back to taking a full dose of pain meds and it helped. She walked a little more than previous days and she ate pretty well. In fact she had a craving for Hot & Sour soup of all things. So I went to a local Asian restaurant and purchased two bowls. One for now and one for later. She was careful eating it because it was spicy and she was concerned about how it would settle on her stomach. She ate a quarter of the bowl and waited a little while before eating more. That was very encouraging. Wednesday was also the first day that she didn’t crash and had to take a nap. Also, there was less noticeable blood in her stool in the AM, but it had increased by evening. We know it’s most likely the Ibuprofen, which she started taking the full dose again this morning. We have our first follow-up with the doctor today since her surgery. Hopefully, she will have a pain solution that will not have these side effects. She is scheduled for a chemo treatment a week from tomorrow, and I’m sure that will be part of the discussion. We don’t see that happening unless she improves greatly over the next few days.

We pray that yesterday was not a fluke and that she is finally headed in the right direction, improving each day.

Brad

Friday, September 12th – Yesterday was Rachel’s post-op visit with Dr. Tucker. Overall, she thought Rachel was doing a great job. She said she looked much better than she expected her to. The incision looks great and is healing well. She kept reminding her that her surgery was very serious and it was going to take weeks to recover. She also said that it could be months before the repairs to her large intestines settle down. She discussed the blood in the stool and advised her to stop taking Iburphren. Since she still needs pain medication, she suggested Tramadol instead. To be safe, she ordered a chest X-ray and blood work. The chest X-ray showed a small amount of fluid in her lungs, but nothing unexpected after surgery. The blood test results showed that her kidney function levels were high, which was somewhat concerning. The Iburphren could be a factor, and she was advised to stop immediately. She will undergo a repeat of the blood work on Monday, and we are praying that her kidney function will return to normal.

The other question was whether she will have her next chemotherapy treatment on 8/19/25. At this point, Rachel feels that it would be too much on top of how she feels now. Dr. Tucker and Dr. Gorsuch plan to discuss and check in with her on Monday or Tuesday to see if she is feeling better. They want to begin treatments ASAP due to the two spots on her lungs. They don’t have all the genetic lab results from the cancer cells yet. These results will determine any long-term treatment plans.

The preliminary results from Chapel Hill show that the cancer began in the fallopian tubes and all tissue that was removed was cancerous, which included the ovaries, the diaphragm, and the two sections of colon.

We obviously still have a long road ahead of us, but with God’s help, we will get through. Your continued prayers are very appreciated.

Brad

Saturday, September 13th – Yesterday was a pretty good day. Rachel was a little tired, but the change in pain medication is most likely the reason. She was able to walk twice without getting out of breath, and her appetite seems to be improving slowly. She is drinking lots of water to hopefully improve her kidney function. We will know more about that on Monday. Overall, I think things are looking up. Praise the lord!

One of Rachel’s faithful followers sends her messages of hope and encouragement almost daily. Here are a couple of Patty’s messages that Rachel wanted to share.

Sunday, September 14th – I’m so glad you are here and that I’m feeling somewhat better. Brad has done a great job of updating my journal and taking care of me. I can’t imagine going through this recovery without him.

Each day, I think I’m improving, but I still experience setbacks, and it’s easy for fear to take over. Yesterday, I spent a lot of the day on the toilet. My bowel movements had decreased to 2-3 times a day, but yesterday I was back to 10-12 times. My diet has been consistent, so I’m unsure why there is an increase. Dr. Tucker said the bowel reconstruction could take up to 6 months or more to settle down. I guess I’m just expecting too much too soon.

I’m praying for a calm day and that I can eat better. My appetite is minimal, and I’m trying to stick to safe foods so far.

I so appreciate all your messages & prayers. I am so thankful that the surgery was a success and that I’m on the other side of that obstacle. God surely has watched over me, and I know with His help, I will be 100% healed. I’ve been repeating these scriptures daily. If you are going through a difficult time or know someone who is, I hope they give you peace.

After waking this morning and feeling a little discouraged, I opened my messages to see this from my friend Patty.

I appreciate each and every one of you for your continued support and encouragement. God bless you and have a wonderful Sunday!

XO, Rachel

Week 4 – Post Surgery Sept. 15th – 20th

Wow, I can’t believe it’s been four weeks since my surgery. It has been the most difficult of weeks, but I had the best day yet on Sunday. I don’t want to jinx my progress, but I do feel I’m coming out on the other side. I ate better, felt better, and didn’t need a nap. I walked a few times without getting out of breath. Some dear friends dropped by to visit, and Jennifer came for the evening. We had dinner together, and although I was only able to eat a small portion, things felt more normal. We played games and watched a movie. It was such a good day.

I am still concerned about the appearance of blood in my stool and my kidney function. I have more blood work today so I’ll learn more. I feel the blood work will also determine my next chemotherapy treatment. I’ll keep you informed.

I do feel that all your prayers and encouragement are having a positive impact. Thank you for your support.

Tuesday, Sept. 16th – I’m happy to report that my kidney function levels have returned to normal. I had another good day, with a better appetite and energy level. I tried to stop the pain meds and made it until 8:00 PM before I had to take another pill. I didn’t take any overnight, and so far I’m good this AM. YAY! Small wins!

I’m still feeling very anxious about the blood in my stool, so I’m planning to call about it again this morning. I still have multiple bowel movements daily, and I had three last night. I’m sorry to share so many details, but it feels like my whole existence revolves around my trips to the bathroom. I’m trying to keep an accurate record of my healing process for myself and to hopefully make others aware.

I’ve also agreed to start my Chemo treatments again on Friday. I’m praying this is the right decision. I want to be completely off my pain meds beforehand, and I hope to gain some weight back also.

I’m feeling so blessed and so fearful at the same time. It’s hard to explain. I know I’ve come such a long way from where I was 4 weeks ago, but I still feel anxious and overwhelmed. I’m repeating 2 Corinthians 13:4 over and over this morning to help me overcome this feeling. Thank you for being here.

Wednesday, Sept. 17th – Here’s an update from yesterday. After speaking with my care team at the cancer center, Dr. Tucker wants me to have another CT scan on Thursday. Although I’m feeling better overall, she feels that the blood in my stool and the persistent pain in my side should be checked out as a precaution. I’m not overly concerned, but I’ll be glad to rule out any issues. I feel that if there were anything seriously wrong, I’d be in more pain and not making the progress I’ve made. I’m praying everything looks good inside and that my two areas of colon are healing nicely.

Yesterday, I went 22 hours without any pain medication, but was extremely tired, and my appetite was diminished. I broke down and took the medication just before dinner and was able to eat a decent meal. I’ve decided to cut the pills in half today to ease off instead of suffering. I’m maintaining my weight, but not gaining any. At 117.2, I weigh the least I’ve ever weighed as an adult. I’ll be so happy when I’m ready to eat again instead of forcing myself.

I’m still struggling with fear, especially when I’m awake during the night. I’m praying for the strength and faith to know that all will be well again. My scripture for today is….

1 Peter 5:6-7 – I crafted your mind for continual communication with Me. Bring Me all your needs, your hopes and fears. Commit everything into My care. Turn from the path of planning to the path of Peace.

Thursday, Sept. 18th – Hey friends, I have my CT scan this afternoon at 3:00. I’m praying that everything is looking good and healing properly. I’m unsure when I’ll know the results, as it’s so late in the day. I’m scheduled for my chemotherapy treatments on Friday morning, and I guess if I don’t hear anything, Dr. Gorsuch will go over the results before my treatments. I guess if there is anything to be concerned about, my treatment could be cancelled. Praying that doesn’t happen.

I’m really nervous about starting treatments again while I’m still recovering. I have lots of questions for Dr. Gorsuch, such as how to handle the side effects while still battling the healing of my colon. I’m still in the bathroom multiple times a day.

My appetite is still fluctuating. However, overall, it has increased. I’ve actually felt hungry a couple of times lately.

I experienced some major shortness of breath while walking yesterday morning, and it exhausted me. After a nap, I felt more myself and had a good afternoon and evening. The experiment of taking 1/2 of the prescribed medication seemed to work as I didn’t experience a crash yesterday evening.

I will try to update the journal as soon as I know the results of the CT scan. I have to be in Greensboro early tomorrow morning, but I’ll update when possible. Your continued prayers are so appreciated.

CT Scan Update:

I just spoke with Dr. Tucker about the results from the CT scan. My colon appears to be functioning properly, so that is a relief. She still wants me to keep an eye on my stool and report if it doesn’t improve within the next week or so. I’m thankful for no obvious issues from the colon surgery. I do have fluid buildup in my right lung, which could require draining. They will be checking me tomorrow, before Chemo, and will decide at that point. I hope it will not require draining. The chemo will most likely dry it up if it isn’t too bad. I’ll see both Dr. Tucker and Dr. Gorsuch tomorrow morning. Praying all goes well.

Friday, Sept. 19th – Well, I’m back home without any chemo treatment today. I’m very thankful! The decision is based on the blood in my stool. They feel that there has been a bleed that hasn’t healed 100% and adding the poison of chemo could cause additional damage. So I’m scheduled for two weeks from today. In the meantime, I am on a strict protein diet to help heal my internal surgical incisions. I’m recording all my food and beverage intake.

I also still have fluid in my right lung. Dr. Gorsuch chose to hold off draining the fluid and see if it would reduce with increased exercise and deep breathing. Since my oxygen levels are good, she didn’t hear any major concerns with my chest exam. We will wait and see if it reduces. I’m scheduled for another chest X-ray and blood work on Tuesday.

Right now, I’m feeling the best I’ve felt, but I’ve also taken two doses of steroids in preparation for the Chemo that didn’t happen. I’m sure I’ll be back to normal tomorrow when they wear off.

Saturday, Sept. 20th – Well, it’s been a week. Three visits to Wesley Long Hospital for blood work, a CT scan, and what we thought would be a chemo treatment. I’m feeling a little shaky this morning, but I’m completely off any pain medication, and the effects from steroids yesterday have diminished. I had a good protein-filled dinner last night and sausage and eggs for breakfast this morning. I’m praying that the increase in protein will heal my colon and stop the blood loss. My hemoglobin was slightly lower yesterday than it was on Monday. So there is still some bleeding.

I’m trying to do more deep breathing exercises and walk more to hopefully reduce the fluid in my lungs. I’m optimistic that by next week, I’ll be so much better and all the post-surgery issues will be resolved. The doctors keep reminding me that due to the seriousness of my surgery, I’ve done very well.

I know that it’s all in God’s hands, and in time, I’ll be back to my old self. Praying that it’s sooner rather than later. LOL

Sunday, Sept. 21 – Good Sunday Morning! I’ve realized that steroids are amazing at giving you a false sense of well-being. After taking my dosages in preparation for chemo, I felt great all day Friday and into Saturday morning. I wasn’t running to the toilet every few minutes or feeling any pain. But once they had worn off, reality returned, and I was made painfully aware that I’m still healing.

The most concerning is the return of frequent bowel movements and the appearance of blood in the stool. I’ve started my high-protein diet in the hope that the blood loss will stop soon. I’ll be honest, after a night of fighting, the need to use the bathroom continuously and having three bowel movements, I have been very discouraged this morning.

Then I turned over my daily scripture calendar, and here’s today’s message.

Do not try to rush this process, because hurry keeps your heart earthbound. I am the Creator of the entire universe, yet I choose to make My humble home in your heart. Psalm 5:3

So I’ll continue with the doctor’s advice and pray that the healing will begin, and most importantly, I pray for patience.

I have had several people ask about the energy bars that my sweet friend Lou Ann brought me. They have been one of the few things I’ve enjoyed eating since my surgery. I thought I’d share the recipe with you.

Click – Perfect No Bake Energy Bars for recipe.

Thank you for checking in on me. I pray that I’ll have more positive news to share with you going forward.

Week 5 – Post Surgery Sept. 22 – 28, 2025

Monday, Sept. 22 – Today is going to be a great day! I’m determined to get over my pity party and face this day with strength and courage.

I had a hard day on Sunday, and I allowed myself to feel hopeless and afraid. After a rough start to the day, my trips to the bathroom began to settle down later, which was a relief. I didn’t have any bowel movements overnight, so that’s another improvement. I am eating more each day, but still not gaining any weight. At least I’m not still losing. I feel that if the colon can heal and the blood loss stops, things will turn around sufficiently. Dr. Gorsuch said the protein is what I need to heal, so I’m eating as much as possible 24/7. I’m feeling much more optimistic today. I’m praying & leaning on my daily scripture…

The LORD is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. Exodus 15:2

Today, I plan to eat well, walk as much as my body allows, and practice deep breathing exercises. I’m so ready to move on and return to the positive person I’ve always been. Thank you for all your encouragement and for allowing me to share my feelings here. Here are a couple of messages of encouragement I’ve received.

Tuesday, Sept. 23 – Not much to report so far today. Yesterday was very similar to the day before. No improvement in my trips to the bathroom or lack of energy. I’m receiving another chest x-ray, more blood work, and a visit with Dr. Gorsuch this afternoon. It feels like this will never end, and I’m praying for some improvement soon.

Wednesday, Sept. 24 – Good morning. Yesterday was a busy day. I first had my chest x-ray ( which is basically the same as two weeks ago. I have fluid in my right lung, but not so much that I need it drained. My oxygen levels are 100% and it only bothers me if I sleep on my left side. Jennifer came to sit with me between appointments, and we took a walk around the Cancer Center’s Healing Gardens. Then I had blood work and a urinalysis.

Lastly, I met with Dr. Gorsuch. My hemoglobin was up to 9, which is a slight improvement. I brought her my food and exercise diary, and although it was filled with protein, she wasn’t impressed. She said I’ve got to double my protein intake and exercise to heal. So back to Harris Teeter we went to stock up on more protein foods.

I doubled my meal intake at dinner last night and again this morning for breakfast. Although I feel like I might explode, I did it and know it’s what I have to do to heal. Now I’m heading out for a walk and praying for a good day.

A friend sent me this reminder.

Thursday, Sept. 25 – Hey friends! Well, I survived day one of Brad’s boot camp. LOL. He force-fed me almost 2,000 protein-filled calories and wouldn’t rest until I’d walked over 2 1/2 miles. Who knew that being forced to eat could be a form of torture? But I did it, and the good news is I had a pretty good night without any BMs. It’s possible that I was too tired to wake up for a bathroom visit.

I’m still waiting to hear back on some of the test results from Tuesday. But from what I can read on my Chart, I’m hopeful everything is okay.

Brad is out walking right now, so I’ve not been force-fed yet today, but I know it’s coming. He seems to be enjoying this new role way too much. LOL. But seriously, I know it’s what I have to do to heal and get this chapter behind me.

I am optimistic that today will be a turning point, and I’ll be praying for the ability to stop focusing on my bodily functions. To go about the day without allowing the urge to use the bathroom to consume me. I realize I need to let it go, keep busy, and give it to God.

Friday, Sept. 26th – I wish I had something good and encouraging to report, but things are pretty much the same. I’m discouraged each time I still have blood in my stool, and the number of trips to the bathroom has not decreased. I had another good day of eating more and walking (thanks to my drill sergeant, Brad). I stayed busy and wrote a new blog post for today. So some aspects of my life are returning to normal. I’m feeling the urge to be creative again, but my energy supply is still limited.

I heard back from my test results yesterday, and I don’t have a UTI. They feel that the pressure I’m feeling is a result of vaginal dryness and prescribed a cream. There is still a possibility that I’ll have an iron infusion. The doctors are discussing it, and I should know today.

So it’s Friday, and I’m scheduled for chemo in one week. I don’t feel I’ll be healed in time. Unless something turns around and fast, I feel I’ll still be at risk for more damage to the colon.

I’m trying so hard to do exactly what the doctor says and praying for this to be better. Thank you for your prayers!

Saturday, Sept. 27th – I appreciate you for checking in on me each day. Today, I just don’t have the words! I’ve seen no change and had an exhausting night. I’m praying hard and trying to keep the faith. Each day, I think, “Today will be the day,” and I know it will happen eventually. Brad and I are both exhausted trying to do everything to increase my energy and speed my healing.

One of my cheerleaders and prayer warrior, Patty, sent me this reminder:

Sunday, Sept. 28th – Good morning, friends. I’m feeling more optimistic this morning. I know you are tired of my pity parties, and I pray I’m over them. After a rocky Saturday morning filled with tears, I had a better afternoon. Brad took me out for lunch, and although I could barely eat any of my meal, I started to feel better. We went to Dollar Tree and the grocery store, then just rode around for a while. The change in atmosphere helped to lift my spirits. By the time we got home, I felt almost normal. I managed to walk just over 3 miles (in small increments), and I felt more energetic. My legs don’t feel as weak. My bowel movements slowed in the afternoon. Still not great, but a little encouraging. I was only up once during the night.

I’ve decided not to obsess about my meals. I’m going to eat what I want with as much protein as possible, but not exclusively protein. Trying to force that much protein was making me crazy. I’m going to stop eating food that I don’t want, which is making me miserable for several hours afterwards. I’ve never been a big eater, and doubling my intake isn’t working.

My goal today is to stay busy and not allow the worries and fears to creep in. I’ve been praying so hard for a sign that this situation was improving, and although yesterday’s progress was only minor, I’ll accept it as a sign.

A blogging friend of mine shared this quote on her blog. And this next one is my new motto!

Week 6 Post Surgery – Sept. 29 – Oct. 5th

Monday, Sept. 29

Good rainy Monday morning. As I enter week 6 of post-surgery, I’m at peace. I know that I’ll start to see an improvement soon. I’ve been trying to rush the process, but I realize all will be well in time.

Sunday was much the same, but I didn’t obsess over my food and actually had a semi-normal dinner with steak, baked potato, and a little mac and cheese.

My sister and BIL visited, which was a helpful distraction. Another friend made a special delivery of liver pudding and a sweet pumpkin arrangement. You see, when I was trying to purchase lots of protein-packed foods, I wanted liver pudding. (I can sense that many of you are cringing, but I love it.) Well, none of the grocery stores had any, so I reached out to a friend who I knew liked it, also hoping they might have a source. Well, they tracked some down in an out-of-town grocery and brought me three packs.

I actually enjoyed my breakfast and didn’t feel like I was forcing it down. I’m praying that I can continue to eat more normally, which will, in turn, lead to healing.

It’s such a blessing to have so many people praying and lifting me up with words of encouragement. How can I be discouraged with so many reminding me that better days are ahead? Thank you for all the support you have given me.

Tuesday, Sept. 30th

I want you to live this day abundantly, seeing all there is to see, doing all there is to do. Don’t be distracted by future concerns. Leave them to Me! James 4:13-15

I awoke to this day’s scripture and plan to embrace it. I don’t have any control over what tomorrow will bring. So I’ll make the most of today. The more I do normal things that help distract me from myself, the better my day. Yesterday, we visited the Collectors’ Antique Mall, and I was able to walk about halfway around the first floor. (It’s huge). Then we went to the grocery store, and instead of waiting in the car, I went inside with Brad. Just being out and about is a much-needed distraction. I’ve primarily only been out of the house for hospital, cancer center, and doctor appointments.

I’m feeling stronger every day, and although the colon healing is taking more time than I had hoped, I know I’ll see a turn soon. I don’t see any way I’ll be ready for chemo on Friday, though. I wish for no more than another week’s delay. I’ll keep you posted.

Wednesday, Oct. 1 – I’m considering yesterday a good day! I felt significantly stronger, and my appetite had improved. Otherwise, everything is still the same! I had a nice visit with a dear friend who brought me flowers and protein-filled chili. Thankfully, food is starting to taste good again.

I’ll be calling the cancer center today to cancel my chemotherapy treatment for Friday. I wish I could move forward and get the treatments behind me, but it’s obvious it’s not in God’s plan.

I awoke to this Instagram message – on @savedbyhisgrace1_ account. You can click the highlighted account to view the entire message if you have an Instagram account. However, here are a few slides that resonated with me.

Thank you for your continued prayers for healing and patience.

Thursday, Oct. 2 – Good morning, friends. I am feeling so much stronger both mentally and physically today. As I wrote yesterday’s quotes from @savedbyhisgrace1, I began to look at my situation in a whole new light.

First, chemo isn’t fun. It knocked you down, and you feel like you may never recover for several days. And that’s when you are fairly healthy to begin with. Had my prayers been answered and the passing of blood had stopped, I would have had that poison in my body after just four weeks. I really can’t imagine what that would have felt like.

So now, after six weeks, I’m so much stronger, and both my doctors feel I’m ready for my treatment scheduled for tomorrow. I’m still very scared and nervous about it. I’ll have blood work first and there’s still a possibility it will be canceled. I’m praying that this is the right time and that I’ll do well recovering from the treatment.

Please keep me in your prayers tomorrow. I’m praying that the doctors are making the right decision and that my body can tolerate the chemo.

Friday, Oct. 3 – Good morning, friends. I’m on my way to my first chemo treatment since surgery. Yesterday was another good day, and today I’ve received my doses of steroids, so I’m feeling well. LOL. I’m praying that starting back on chemo is the right decision, but I’m planning to have a frank discussion with my doctor before they start. After my blood work, there’s still a possibility I’ll be coming home. I’m just praying that whatever occurs today in God’s plan is the best for me and my continued healing. If you send up a little prayer, that would be appreciated!

I’ll update tomorrow unless I’m sent home today. I pray you have a blessed day, and thank you for showing up here.

Sat. Oct. 4th – Hey friends! I’m doing well today after my 5th Chemo treatment yesterday. It’s the steroids they pump me full of before and during chemo, so the crash is coming, but hopefully not until Monday. Dr. Gorsuch said the biggest risk is when my platelets drop next weekend, I may begin to see more blood loss in my stool. If it becomes excessive, I’m to call her immediately. Praying this won’t happen. Still just taking it one day at a time.

I shared this on Instagram and Facebook yesterday, but I wanted to add it here as well. I was so scared of starting back on chemo after my surgery, and then I saw this message on Instagram.

I’m taking advantage of my steroid day by having lunch with some friends and then, if able, attending Brad’s 50th High School Reunion. (I’m much younger than him – LOL). The weather here is amazing, so it should be a great time for an outdoor reunion. I hope you are having good weather and have a blessed weekend.

Sunday, Oct. 6th

Happy Sunday Friends! Yesterday was the first day since my surgery that I felt almost normal. Unfortunately, I know it’s the steroids they pumped into me for the Chemo, and it’s a false sense of well-being. However, I was able to enjoy lunch with dear friends and attend Brad’s 50th Class reunion. It was wonderful to connect with several of my old classmates and meet a new friend in person for the first time. Denease had reached out to me when she heard about my ovarian cancer diagnosis because she had recently gone through very similar treatments and was now cancer-free. We’ve spoken on the phone, but we’ve never met, and it felt like we had been lifelong friends.

Brad’s classmates keep a close connection, and many were aware of my journey. It was so humbling to know so many were following along and praying for me. Several in his class have battled cancer or lost a loved one to it. So many need our prayers.

I’m a little anxious as I’m already feeling twinges of the steroids wearing off and the reality of chemo kicking in. I’m praying for the strength to get me through the next few days, and that my platelets will not drop and cause more blood loss.

I didn’t get a photo at the reunion, but we managed to get someone to take one while out to lunch with our friends. I realized that we all met in our early 30s when we moved into the same neighborhood. We’ve all been through so much together, and although we’ve scattered and are no longer neighbors, we will be friends to the end.

Week 7 Post Surgery & Chemo Treatment # 5 Recovery Week

It’s day 3 after chemo treatment, and I’m not feeling terrible this morning. My joints are achy and I feel weak, but no worse than any of my other treatments. I did crash early yesterday and needed a nap by lunchtime. I’ve been concerned that it will be harder this time since I’m not 100% healed from the surgery. I’m praying it doesn’t get any worse and that I can continue to eat good. I’m still working on rebuilding my hemoglobin levels. The last blood work showed 9.1, which is still low. One day at a time. Thank you for stopping by today.

“Be willing to follow wherever I lead. Follow Me wholeheartedly, with glad anticipation quickening your pace. Though you don’t know what lies ahead, I know; and that is enough!” 2 Corinthians 5:7

Tuesday, Oct. 7th

Although I started Monday without severe side effects, the leg pain and overall lousy feeling increased as the day wore on. I pushed myself to walk over a mile total for the day. I had a couple of naps and was in bed right after dinner. My appetite diminished, and eating dinner was a struggle. I used a heating pad to help alleviate the leg pain, but I had to reheat it every hour or so. I was up and down all night, so I’m feeling beat this morning. I didn’t feel I could tolerate eggs today, so I had cottage cheese with blueberries for breakfast. Hoping some of the pain and exhaustion will diminish today.

Wednesday, Oct. 8th

I’ve realized that time erases our memories of the bad times. It was 11 weeks between my 4th and 5th chemo treatments, and during that time, I had forgotten just how bad I felt on days 3 and 4. Yesterday was spent mostly in bed, and I didn’t feel like talking. I did get up and walk a few times, but it was a struggle. By evening, I perked up a little and was able to stay awake for a movie in bed. The heating pad helps me relax and reduce the pain in my legs. I was able to get some sleep and was only up twice during the night. I’m hoping for a better day today and that the side effects are diminishing.

In other news, that 11-week gap has resulted in my eyelashes and brows growing back. I also have a good amount of hair on the top of my head. I know that next week, it will start to fall out again. It’s grown long enough that I told Brad he needs to shave it so I don’t have little hairs everywhere. Yikes!

When I was feeling my worst yesterday, I told Brad, I never dreamed it would be this hard. I can’t believe I had surgery in August, and now it’s October, and I’m still struggling to gain my strength back. September is just a blur.

We were supposed to be on a flight to Rome, Italy, yesterday. As soon as I was diagnosed, I was told to cancel the trip. My sister and BIL, along with another couple, are on their way to a trip of a lifetime. I’m so glad they decided to continue with their plans. I’m praying they have safe travels and that it’s everything they hope it will be.

We will be planning another trip as soon as I beat this cancer and get my strength back. We will no longer wait for the perfect time to travel or to do anything. We have learned the hard way that we need to embrace each day and live it to the fullest. So I’m going to take a walk, try to eat breakfast, and get over this treatment.

Friday, Oct. 10th

Hey friends, I’m sorry for the lack of update yesterday. I had an early morning appointment for an MRI. The MRI took over an hour, and by the time we made it home, I was exhausted. They told me it would be a week or so before I got the results, but my doctor messaged me around 4 pm with the Good News: My Liver is Good.

Since my first CT, which diagnosed my cancer, there has been some concern about my liver. Even with the surgery, I was forewarned that they would be removing or burning some damaged areas on the liver. However, after surgery, Dr. Tucker said my liver looked good with no damage, but it was the diaphragm that was damaged and pressing on my liver. So I was relieved. Then, a few weeks ago, I had another CT scan, and the reading showed something possibly wrong with the liver (again)! An MRI was suggested at that time. Dr. Tucker said she felt that it was okay, but as a precaution, she ordered the MRI. I specifically requested that they expedite the testing because I have enough to worry about, and I wanted this issue confirmed one way or the other. I feel like another weight has been lifted from my shoulders. Brad and I almost did a happy dance in the living room. It just felt like a sign that I’ll be through all of this discomfort soon. Upon reviewing my chart, it also notes that my stomach and bowels appear normal, which is also a relief. Now I can focus on getting back to normal.

I’m feeling stronger today from the Chemo, but now I’m to lie low through Monday. This is the time my blood platelets will drop, and I’ll be more susceptible to germs. I feel that if my bowls would settle down, I’d be close to normal. The worst part is feeling a constant urge to use the bathroom. I have started having multiple bowel movements again over the last few days. However, no signs of blood so far. I’m praying that as the platelet count drops, I don’t begin to experience that problem again. Dr. Gorsuch said it’s a possibility with the chemo post-surgery.

We hope to have a great weekend and then travel to the beach on Tuesday. I’m praying I feel strong and that my appetite returns to normal. I’d love to be excited about food from our favorite restaurants.

I’m feeling incredibly peaceful today, and I know that this journey is nearing its end. I’m so thankful for all the encouraging messages you have sent me. I feel like I’ve been so doom and gloom for weeks, but you’ve stuck with me and never let me lose hope. The hardest thing for me has been letting go and not trying to control the outcome. Once I reached that breaking point and finally surrendered it all to God’s hands, I’ve had peace.

My sister-in-law gave me this daily scripture calendar months ago, and almost daily, the scripture is spot on. It’s been amazing because it’s exactly what I needed for the day. Here is today’s.

“Trust me enough to let things happen without striving to predict or control them. Relax and refresh yourself in the Light of My everlasting love. My Love-Light never dims, yet you are often unaware of My radiant Presence.” Psalm 37: 3-6

Saturday, Oct. 11th

Happy Saturday! Yesterday was a good day! My appetite was much better, and I actually did a little DIY project you’ll see soon. I’m still having multiple bowel movements daily, but they have become less painful and therefore not as worrisome. I’m also not seeing any traces of blood! There was a possibility that the blood would return when my platelets dropped this weekend. So far so good! Praying it stays that way.

Today on the blog, I re-ran my post about Traveling the NC Pottery Highway. I spent a considerable amount of time researching and writing that article, and Brad and I had a great time gathering video and images around the Seagrove area. This morning, I re-read the article, and it made me want to go shopping for pottery. If I weren’t in isolation this weekend, it would be a perfect cool fall day to travel the Pottery Highway and explore all the unique shops. If you’ve never been, you may enjoy reading about it; the full article can be found here.

Although I feel like getting out and about, I’ll play it safe and stay home until Tuesday. Don’t need any setbacks.

I mentioned last weekend that I didn’t get a photo at Brad’s class reunion, but a friend snapped this photo and sent it to us. While I’ve been losing weight in the most horrific ways, Brad has intentionally been losing. He’s currently down 38 lbs. since February. So here’s a look at my skinny husband. Looking good at his 50th reunion.

Sunday, Oct. 12th

Hey friends, I want to start today’s journal with a scripture –

James 1: 2 4 – Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

I just finished reading Sunday Scriptures titled “What To Do When You Are Troubled” by Yvonne at Stone Gable Blog. I’m trying to decide what to share from her message, but I’m overwhelmed by the truth of her words. The truth of my experience during these last few weeks. The understanding that there is a purpose for what I’ve endured, and although I’ve cried, begged, and pleaded during this process, it was only through letting go of the control and completely trusting in God’s will that I gained peace.

From James 1 3-4 – We can take joy in knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result that you may be perfect, complete lacking nothing.

If you are going through a trial (large or small), I suggest you read Yvonne Sunday’s Scripture message.

As for my progress, I’m getting stronger each day. I awoke this morning in a panic about all the things I want to do. Projects for the fall and Christmas, and getting the house back together since it was painted (8 weeks ago – Yikes)! When I told Brad how I was feeling, he said, “That’s great because that’s the most normal you’ve been in 8 weeks”. I know I’m still unable to endure a full day of activities, but I hope to accomplish a few tasks each day. I’m finally experiencing a significant increase in appetite, and I know my endurance will follow suit.

I’m praying that I will only need two more chemo treatments, and by Thanksgiving, this trial will be behind me. Thank you for following along and for all your prayers. I hope you have a blessed day!

8 Weeks Post Surgery Oct. 13 – Oct. 19th

We’ve reached the 8-week mark, and I believe things are looking up. I actually gained a pound this morning. That’s the first significant weight gain since surgery. I’m at 115.6 today, so I still have a long way to go, but now that my appetite is returning, hopefully the weight will come back.

Other than the colon issues and some indigestion, I’m feeling so much more like myself. I’ve learned that sweet potatoes are not my friend at the moment, and I’m still not eating high-fiber foods. I’ve been craving popcorn but know better. I’ve read it can take months for the digestive system to settle down after a colon resection. None of the issues is as severe as they were a few weeks ago.

I will likely begin updating the journal on a less regular basis this week. I’ll certainly make entries of any significant changes or things I want to remember going forward. I’m so blessed to have you following along, and I would appreciate it if you could continue to keep me in your prayers. I’ve got a long road ahead, but I’m starting to see the light at the end. My last chemo treatment is scheduled for my birthday, Nov. 14th. What a celebration it would be if I could ring the bell that day. God is good, and with your prayers and his help, I know I’ll be celebrating complete healing soon.

Thursday, Oct. 16th

Happy Thursday, friends. I thought I’d give you a little update. We traveled to the beach on Tuesday, and I made it without any issues. It feels so good to be away from home for a few days. Although I love my farmhouse and the isolation of our property, I needed a break. It’s been 10 weeks since we were at the beach, and the time was spent in the hospital and at home. There were very few excursions that didn’t include doctor or hospital visits. So I was so ready to get away and be as normal as possible.

So far, we have been hanging out with our beach family. Brad and I went out for lunch in Wilmington, and I did a little thrifting in a small shop. Afterwards, I needed to come home. So it wasn’t a huge day out, but I found one great item to add to my vintage brass collections.

Today I’m going on a little ladies’ lunch and shopping excursion. I’m praying I’ll be okay after lunch and can visit a few shops. We haven’t planned a big shopping day like we usually do, so I think I’ll be fine.

My sweet friend gifted me the sweetest book. As I was reading it this morning, I realized that I never told you what happened to my Courage Angel while we were in the hospital.

I held the courage angel until I was taken into surgery, and then my daughter Jennifer held it the whole 7 1/2 hours. I kept her on my side table the entire time I was in the hospital. However, one day she got bumped and one of her arms broke off. In my fragile state, I was upset, so Brad immediately went and bought some super glue to mend her broken arm. She’s a little less perfect than before, but she’s still standing tall with her arms raised toward heaven. Just like me, she’s a little battered from the hospital stay, but she survived it. And although she’ll never be perfect, her courage and faith are still strong.

The end of My Beautiful Broken Shell offers this prayer.

“Thank you, Lord, for embracing my shell…whether I am whole or broken. Thank you for sending me loved ones who care. Thank You for holding me in the palm of your hand… for keeping me safe from the pounding surf.” Carol Hamblet Adams

I hope you are having a blessed week, and I’ll be in touch.

Saturday, Oct. 18

We are enjoying our beach trip. The weather has been beautiful. We’ve walked and done a little shopping each day. I usually tire after one or two stops, but it’s such an improvement from a few weeks ago that I’ll not complain. At each of the thrift stores, I’ve found one treasure to bring home with me. Below are this week’s finds, and I’m excited to share how I’ll use them in the farmhouse soon. I’ll be removing the arrangement from the painted piece and shining up the brass pieces. You can see more about where I found everything on tomorrow’s Dirt Road Adventures.

In other health news, my digestion and bathroom trips have improved. Not perfect, but so much better. I’m also able to eat full portion meals, finally. I feel I might have gained a little weight, but I didn’t bring my scales, so it will be a surprise when we return home. I need to gain approximately 15 pounds, which will take a few weeks or months, I’m sure.

I feel so blessed to be sharing good news for a change. I’ll have my next chemotherapy treatment on Friday, October 24th, so I have a week to eat healthily and get plenty of exercise. I hope to be much stronger by then.

I’m praying for the strength to endure the final two treatments, and that I’ll be cancer-free and at that point be at the end of my journey. I’m hopeful to spend Thanksgiving celebrating all of God’s blessings.

Proverbs 3: 5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Week 9 Post Surgery & After 5th Chemo Oct. 19th – 25th

Hey friends, sorry I’m a little late catching up on my healing journal. It’s now been 9 weeks since surgery, and I’m feeling much better. I did have a minor crash over the weekend, though. I was just tired, and I think I’d overdone it. Since we’d been at the beach, I’d been running out a couple of times a day after being at home 24/7 for weeks. However, on Monday I felt my energy return and had one last hurrah with my girlfriends. We had lunch out and did a little Christmas shopping at Paysage in Wilmington. There was so much unique inspiration. It made me want to get my house ready for Christmas.

It’s Tuesday, and we are headed home. I know I shared that my hair had started growing back after surgery. My eyebrows and lashes are fuller than ever. However, I knew once the treatments started, I’d loose it all again. So I had Brad shave away my peach fuzz hair before we left for the beach. I’m glad I did because it’s starting to fall out again. My pillowcase has been coated in fine hairs each morning. Plus, my scalp is so sore. It’s hard for me to wear my wig. The cotton caps are much more comfortable at the moment.

I’ll spend the rest of this week getting the house in order and maybe starting some holiday projects. Friday, I’ll have treatment #6, so next week will be a recovery week, and I’ll get very little done if it’s like usual. I’m feeling so blessed to have had this week at the beach. We had such a good time dining and shopping with our friends. We most likely will not be back until after treatment # 7, and I’m praying we will be celebrating Thanksgiving and being cancer-free at the beach. It will be the first holiday since Easter that we will be in a position to celebrate the holiday at our beach cottage. Holiday bookends to this life-changing journey.

Friday, Oct. 24

Hey friends, I woke up early this morning with something heavy on my heart. I’ve been feeling better this last week or so, and it’s allowed me to slip back into old patterns. I’ve not been leaning on God so much or praising him as much. Then I read something yesterday, and put my breaking in perspective. I shared previously that in my surgery recovery, I reached a breaking point and gave it to God. I realized I had no control, and that’s when I gained peace and comfort. It’s also when I started to heal.

“God will not use what he has not first broken.” ” When God breaks you, he removes everything that is harmful to you.” “Rejection is not a punishment; it is a protection. Sometimes God closes doors to protect you from things that could have destroyed you. What you call heartbreak is shaping. Your pain is not wasted—it is preparation. Your waiting will become your testimony. Your tears will become your praise. ” reprinted from Savedbyhisgrace1_ on Instragram

You see, I’ve always felt lucky! I’ve been a self-made entrepreneur most of my life. Even when I worked for others, I did craft shows to make extra money. I’ve been successful at most of the things I’ve set my mind to. I’m determined and have always felt in control of my destiny. I know that my talents are God given, but have I sung his praises? Not so much.

When I was diagnosed, I had so many people say, “You’re the strongest person I know, and you will beat this”. You are the most determined person I know, you’re the most positive person, and so on! And I have been positive and determined. Although I was scared and had my moments of despair, I never thought I couldn’t survive. I’ve come through the chemo treatments without any major side effects and still know that I can survive this.

However, my surgery and the recovery were a breaking point. A point that made me realise I couldn’t do this without God’s help. That it truly didn’t matter how determined I was! It’s always been in God’s Hands, and it always has been. God blessed me with determination, talents, and a positive attitude. Without him, I would have nothing. So it’s not just luck, but it’s been God’s hand all along. This blog would not exist without God giving me the determination to create a whole new career at the age of 60.

So the question is, why did God allow me to break? I’m still not 100% sure, but I’ll never be the same, and I’ll never take a day for granted. On the good days, I’ll praise him for my blessings, and on the bad days, I’ll ask for strength. I feel in my heart that there is a purpose for everything under the heavens, and my purpose today is to share my thoughts and feelings with you.

I’m leaving now for Chemo treatment # 6. Your faithful prayers have truly blessed me and I’m praying that today’s treatment is a success and that any remaining cancer is removed from my body today. I praise God today for my health and healing. I know he has me in the palm of his hand.

Saturday, Oct. 25

Hey Friends, I finished my 6th Chemotherapy Treatment and only have one more to go.  My hemoglobin has risen to 10.1, which is still low but 1 point higher than it was 3 weeks ago.  Slowly but surely, I’ll get there.

I also received the report from my cancer cells. My cancer is not genetic, which I’m thankful for because of my daughter, sister, and other family members.  I only had a brief meeting today about the result and will have more time to review on my next visit with Dr. Gorsuch.  What I know is that it is recommended that I take a PARP inhibitor for 2 years because my Biomarker findings show a positive HRD signature.  I’ll be honest, I’m having a hard time determining if this is good or bad.  The one statement that I understood is that with these results, my cancer responds well to the type of Chemotherapy I’m receiving, and the long-term results are significantly increased with the 2-year pill.  I’m not exactly happy with the idea of this pill, but if it will add to my 100% long-term healing, it will be worth it.  

I’ll also have a CT scan approximately 4 weeks after my final treatment to see if the chemo worked.  I’m unsure what the next steps would be if it didn’t.  I think I will get to ring the bell at my next Chemo treatment.  They have the bell set up in their healing garden and we saw it today.  I can’t wait to celebrate.  

I mentioned that my scalp is so sore as I’m starting to lose my hair again, so for the first time, I wore my cap for my treatment.  They are so soft and comfortable.  They are washable, and I can sleep in them.  If you know anyone who needs something comfortable, here is the link – https://amzlink.to/az0JB8sFETpMS

I’m off to do some shopping with my partner in crime, Vickie, while I’m on my steroid high! I hope you have a great day!

Week 10 Post Surgery & Chemo # 6 Recovery Oct. 26th- Nov. 1st.

Here’s a quick update from the weekend. My steroid day, Saturday, was a good day. My friend and I did some shopping, and I brought more Christmas decorations (like I need any more, yikes!). We also went out to dinner, and I began to notice that I had indigestion and some signs that the steroids were wearing off. I don’t usually feel the effects until Sunday.

By Sunday afternoon, I was needing a nap, and by dinner time, I was experiencing major indigestion. I was up several times during the night and experienced abdominal pain and indigestion. I took Tums several times during the night.

I feel that my stomach pains have ceased this morning, but I’m still feeling raw in my chest, and I’m hesitant to eat anything that might irritate my stomach again. I’ve experienced some of this feeling with previous chemo treatments, but never this severe. Each treatment seems to bring about different side effects, so you never know exactly what to expect. I’m praying for a better day today, but know that I’ll have to take it easy for the next few days. There is no rushing this process. I’m just thankful it’s no worse than it is. I know I’ve tolerated the side effects much better than some people do. I’ve not been nauseous or had any vomiting, for which I am grateful. I hate being nauseous more than anything. So I’ll count my blessings this morning, thank God for the progress I’ve made, and try not to complain too much. I hope you have a blessed day. Here are a couple of reminders.

Tuesday, Oct. 28th

Day 3 was another hard day. I’m having trouble determining if the abdominal pain is from the Chemo or related to the colon resections. Although my symptoms have improved, I’m still getting what I call flare-ups. I’ll have a few good days with normal bowel movements, and then I’ll have a day with 5 or 6. Yesterday was a flare-up day, and then I had abdominal pain throughout the night with more bathroom visits. The other issue keeping me awake is the joint pain, especially around my knees and ankles. A heating pad helped with the discomfort, but I was still waking up every hour or so.

The good news is my indigestion from yesterday is much better so far this morning. My weight has dropped again, but that seems to be the cycle I’m on with chemo. I’ll probably start to gain again by the end of the week. I’ll also start to have less pain as the week progresses. I’ve found that if I can endure days 3-5, things start to improve, and by next weekend, I’ll be close to normal again. I’m so thankful that the low points only last a few days.

It’s been raining, and the dreary weather hasn’t helped my mood. I can’t get outside to walk, and that may be contributing to my leg pain. I want to get back on track with my walking. I’m still only able to walk 2 miles at a time since my surgery. I’m hoping to be back up to 3 miles before my 7th treatment. I’m taking it one day at a time and not rushing. I know my strength will return.

Wednesday, Oct. 29th

Tuesday or Day 4 was somewhat better. The indigestion had diminished, and I had a good lunch. I felt much better until after lunch, but then I crashed and spent the afternoon in bed. I wasn’t in pain, but just exhausted.

I slept better last night and was only up once. I’m still experiencing leg pain, and my finger tips and toes are somewhat numb again. I accidentally left my B-12 supplement at our beach house, so I’ve not been taking it this week. I just ordered another bottle because I do feel that it helps with the numbness.

I’m trying not to be anxious and at peace with the chemo side effects. It’s hard because although my body is still in recovery mode, my mind has returned to normal. I have projects I want to complete, and I’m ready to get my house decorated for (dare I say it?) Christmas! I had to skip over most of my fall decorating, so now I’m itching to get the holidays started. I know this Christmas is going to be the best. We will be praising God for all his blessings and for bringing me through this ordeal. Today’s scripture calendar was another perfectly timed message.

“Linger in My presence a while. Rein in your impulses to plunge into the day’s activities. Beginning your day alone with Me is essential preparation for success.” Hebrews 12:3

Friday, Oct. 31

Hey friends, I made it to Friday. I’ve felt better overall the past two days; however, I’ve been having a major colon flare-up. I don’t know why this one has lasted longer than usual, unless it’s because I’m eating more. I can’t seem to get over it. I was up 5 times during the night with bowel movements after going 6 times during the day yesterday. It’s no wonder I’m not gaining any weight. Brad feels it’s the chemo causing this, and I have had more abdominal pain with this treatment. I’m praying it settles down today. Sorry for the unpleasant details, but unfortunately, my life seems to revolve around bodily functions these days.

In other news, I’ve been working on a few new projects that I’ll be sharing soon. I’ve got so many ideas that I’ve been stockpiling over these last several weeks and can’t wait to get them underway. I’m hoping to get my Christmas tree decorated this weekend while I’m stuck at home.

Oh, and Happy Halloween! Do you get lots of trick-or-treaters? No one ventures down our dirt road. I didn’t decorate for Halloween, but these buzzards decorated the tree across from the pond. How creepy!

It’s so easy to become discouraged. One bad night can bring all the negative thoughts back. I recently read this, and it’s a good reminder that God has this! I have to keep my faith that all will be well in the end.

Week 11 Post Surgery

Hey friends, I’ve made it through another chemo treatment week. Saturday was a good day, and I felt normal. I started decorating my Christmas tree on Friday, and I’m almost finished now. I made some ornaments that I had been planning and they turned out so good. Can’t wait to share the details next week. I hope to get more of the house decorated this week. I feel that if I can get my house in order, I’ll feel better overall. When we had the main areas painted in August, I never dreamed I’d still be working on getting it back together in November.

I’m still experiencing some leg and foot pain at night, so I’m wearing the compression socks and using the heating pad. My colon has settled down somewhat, so I’m thankful for that blessing. I’m still feeling some numbness in my fingers and toes, but I hope it diminishes as I walk and move more. I also started back on my Vit. B-12 this week, which will hopefully help.

I know my struggle isn’t behind me, but I hope to have good days over the next couple of weeks.

I’m reading Romans 8:18 this morning.

“I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us.” Romans 8:18

“Your struggles are not because you didn’t pray the right way, or because you didn’t pray enough, or because you have weak faith. It’s because God is using you in ways you may not understand now, but you will one day. One day you will see how God used your affliction to prepare you for an incomparable weight of glory.” Saved By His Grace 1

I appreciate all the messages of encouragement and uplifting cards. I also received a note and lovely throw blanket from a friend, a cancer survivor. These words of hope and survival keep me going on those dark days and are so appreciated. If you know anyone who needs prayers, I’d be happy to add them to my prayer list. Please message me the name and what prayers are needed. My list keeps growing as so many are suffering. I pray you have a blessed and healthy week.

Tuesday, Nov. 4th

Good Morning, Friends! I’m feeling so much better, and I truly praise God for these healthy days and for the beautiful morning we are having today.

I awoke this morning thinking about the friends I’ve made through my blog and Healing Journal. I feel sad because I’ll never get the pleasure to meet many in person. I have several people message me that I never knew were following along on my blog until I started my journal. So many have reached out to say they are praying and sharing cancer survival stories with me. It’s all been so humbling and such a blessing. I’ve had a few prayer requests over the weekend, and I’m always willing to pass these blessings forward. So don’t hesitate to message me if you or someone you know needs extra prayer warriors.

When you write a blog, add projects to Instagram, or Facebook, you are putting yourself out there for the good and bad. I have found that some people like to criticize rather than lift someone. This is especially true of social media. Not everyone likes everything I do. However, I have the best support team of followers on my blog, and I rarely get a negative comment. I am so blessed to have you following along and lifting me up with your encouragement.

A friend of mine, Kristin Lenz, is a blogger, author, and entrepreneur. She was instrumental in helping me in the early days of my blog, and I want to lift her up today. I’ve never met her in person, but I know her to be a very inspiring individual with a heart of gold. I’ve been reading her first book – Adventure Awaits. She posted this positive quote on her Instagram this morning, and here is a quote from her book.

“Doubt and discouragement arise when we are looking back at roads we wish we hadn’t taken or are focusing on today’s worries instead of looking forward to our identity and for the light God shines on the arrows showing us a way forward.” Kirstin Lenz

Her book is about pursuing your dreams and action plans to make them come true. If you are looking for encouragement to begin a new career or step out in faith to start a business, her book will give you new tools and strategies to fulfill those dreams. The book is on sale at Adventure Awaits on Amazon. Kirstin’s Instagram handle is @whitearrowshome.

Thank you for all your messages of encouragement. They mean the world to me.

Thursday, Nov. 6th

Hey friends, I wanted to share my thoughts with you this morning. I had a little backslide yesterday and overnight. I let fear creep back into my mind. Yesterday we met with our insurance advisor as it’s open enrollment time. Who could forget with all the mailings and commercials? LOL. We discussed how my health situation had changed since last year, and I advised him about the cancer inhibitor medication I’ll be taking for the next two years. Since I’m not 100% sure which medication I’ll be taking, he asked me to send him the options in my report. So I came home and pulled out the 20-page report about my cancer biomarker and genomic findings. Instead of just quickly sending the information over, I started reading about the results, and beyond the recommended medication, I realized I was possibly eligible for additional case studies, which were listed. Long story short, reading about the recurrence rates and other probability percentages had me in a tailspin. I allowed all of my original fears to resurface, and a feeling of hopelessness took over. I was able to get my mind off it before bedtime, but then in the early morning hours, it started going there again. Brad realized I was upset and reminded me that the statistics are worst-case scenarios and that we can’t live in fear.

We just watched Leigh Ann Morgan’s latest Netflix stand-up comedy, and one thing she said really stuck with me. I don’t have the exact quote, but she said something like, “We are a very faithful family and love the lord, but the devil would still get in their house, especially on Sunday mornings”. BTW – She is so funny! If you need a good wholesome laugh, watch her show or stand-up specials.

I realize that the devil is undermining my faith. I truly believe that I am going to be cured of cancer and live to see many more years. But once you begin to let doubt creep in, the devil has won. Brad reminded me that a positive attitude is important in my healing process. That I have to have a strong belief and faith.

I went down a rabbit hole of despair yesterday as I read about the case studies and possible results. I can’t do that because I’m not a statistic. Each person’s story is different, and I plan, with God’s help, to be a success story.

If you need a reminder to overcome fear and instead find peace in God word, here are the scriptures that helped me today.

Friday, November 7th

Happy Friday Friends! I’m feeling so much better both physically and emotionally today. Writing in this journal is very therapeutic. Once I’ve written my feelings, I can look at things more objectively and less emotionally. In addition, I receive so many encouraging messages from you! My heart is so full of appreciation that you take the time to encourage me and lift me up when I’m down.

My sister sent me this message from her bible study, and it’s worth sharing with anyone facing fearful situations.

” Let your prayer resound with the promises of God over your life. Then post it and pray it out loud as often as you can. The enemy won’t stand a chance against a praying woman like you.”

I certainly believe that praying specific prayers is important, as is sharing your worries and prayer needs. In addition, I’ve found that keeping a journal is so helpful. As I said, once I write it all down, I feel calm and at peace, like a burden has been lifted. I’m so thankful you allow me to share all the good, the bad, and the ugly with you.

I hope you have plans for a wonderful weekend, and God bless you for showing up here and following along.

Post Surgery Week 12 – Nov. 9th – 15th

It’s hard to believe tomorrow will be 12 weeks! It feels like the longest and shortest times of my life, all at once.

I awoke early this morning thinking about the past 6 months. I realized that my first chemo treatment was May 16th and my last will be Nov. 14th (the Lord willing)! I thought about how 6 months ago, Brad and I said, “Our lives will never be the same,” and we didn’t really have a clue. I feel we have been climbing a huge mountain along this journey, and we are about to reach the top. However, we are not home yet. We still have miles to go, and once again, I feel we will never be the same. We will never take our health and our blessings for granted. We will praise God for each new day.

I’m doing so much better, but I still get tired and need to rest. I’m walking about 2 1/2 miles each morning. I hope to be back to 3 miles by Friday. My digestion hasn’t returned to normal, and I’m still making several bathroom trips most days. However, God has carried me through the worst of it. Brad has been my faithful companion, drill sergeant, and best husband a woman could hope for. I feel I couldn’t have done this without him. But I know God doesn’t give us more than we can handle. I have several friends on my prayer list who are going through similar struggles alone. I’m in awe of their faith and strength.

A friend, Marcie, sent me this devotional, and I want to share it with you! I also just ordered the book, and I highlighted the link below.

Jesus Calling: November 8 – Jesus Calling Devotional by Sarah Young 

Learn to appreciate difficult days. Be stimulated by the challenges you encounter along your way. As you journey through rough terrain with Me, gain confidence from your knowledge that together we can handle anything. This knowledge is comprised of three parts: your relationship with Me, promises in the Bible and past experiences of coping successfully during hard times.

     Look back on your life, and see how I have helped you through difficult days. If you are tempted to think, “Yes, but that was then, and this is now,” remember who I AM! Although you and your circumstances may change dramatically, I remain the same throughout time and eternity. This is the basis of your confidence. In My Presence you live and move and have your being. 

Fear not, for I am with you: Be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you: I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

I also just ordered the book, and I highlighted the link – Jesus Calling Devotional by Sarah Young 

We are looking forward to celebrating an early birthday lunch with my sister and BIL today. His birthday is this month also. I hope you are having a wonderful, blessed weekend.

Tuesday, Nov. 11th

Happy Veterans Day! I hadn’t planned on updating my journal today because I’m doing pretty good. Been getting more of my Christmas decorating done and even did a little thrift store shopping yesterday. But then I was reading the daily devotion from Jesus Calling (my book came yesterday) and felt compelled to share. It’s as if these devotions were written just for me. Maybe everyone feels that way because we all have worries, fears, and challenging days. Whether large or small, no one is immune.

Yesterday, I had lunch with a friend who has been through the challenges of Ovarian Cancer and is now cancer-free. We talked about the worries of the cancer returning and her anxiety before each three-month visit. I realized that from the first day you are told you have cancer, you will be fighting fear for the rest of your life. That your relationship with God and relying on his strength will be crucial to living a normal life. She shared that her doctor told her not to worry about the cancer returning but to live, travel, and enjoy her days. Words to live by, but why do we have such a hard time living them and overcoming fear? It’s a daily struggle for me.

That’s why I wanted to share a small part of today’s devotional that really spoke to me.

“Try to view challenging days as opportunities to receive more of My Power than usual. Look to Me for all that you need, and watch to see what I will do. As your days, so shall your strength be.”

I woke up to a scattering of snow this morning and freezing cold temperatures. So I plan to stay indoors and get as many projects done as possible. I’m gearing up for my last Chemo treatment on Friday! I have to prepare ahead for the downtime after chemo that’s sure to come. I’m also preparing to ring that bell and celebrate my (67th – shhh) birthday all at the same time. I’ll meet with my doctor to learn more about the pill they are suggesting and my next steps. I’ll keep you informed.

November 14th

Well, today is a big day. It’s my birthday and my last Chemo treatment. I’ll also hear more about the medication I’ll be taking long-term and the next steps. I know I’m supposed to be excited about ringing the bell today, and I am, but I’m also feeling very anxious. I’ve been awake since 4:00 AM and finally decided I’d get up and write down how I’m feeling.

I think I’m afraid to let myself get excited, in case there’s more to come. I know I’ll have a CT scan and more blood work in about 4 weeks to determine if I’m cancer-free. I know that all of this is out of my hands, and whatever may come, God has a plan. I keep reminding myself to look at how far I’ve come on this uphill battle, and I’ve made it to the top. Yes!!! I’m so grateful for God’s blessings and want to accept them and rejoice in them without worry. Brad says I’ll feel better once I talk with the doctor this morning. I know it’s just the fear of the unknown, which, in my opinion, is the worst and hardest to overcome. I’m reminded of my sister-in-law’s prayer, which she gave me early on this journey and which I’m praying this morning.

“In God I trust, and I will not be afraid. God, when I am afraid of the unknown, instill in me that you will always watch over me. Reinforce my faith so that fears are disspated. Amen!”

I’m unsure what the bell-ringing ceremony will look like. The bell in the Healing Garden outside the cancer center, so as a backup, I have a little brass bell that I plan to take with me. One that I can ring anytime I need a reminder of God’s blessings and how far I’ve come.

I’ve been blessed with birthday lunch dates and dinner dates with friends and family all week long. A dear friend gifted me a Jesus Bracelet in teal yesterday, and I plan to wear it today along with my “God Has This” button, which my daughter gave me. I’ll be wrapped in the prayer shawls and healing blankets so many have sent me, along with all the messages of encouragement and prayers I’ve received over these past months. As I celebrate today, I’m celebrating more than my last chemo treatment; I’m celebrating the many, many friends and prayer warriors I’ve met along the way. Thank you!

Saturday, Nov. 15th – Good News Day and Last Chemo Treatment!

Yesterday was a very emotional day in so many ways. I woke with fear, but God is good, and I should have been more trusting. My first question to Dr. Gorsuch was about the results of my Biomark Findings. The gene mutations that caused my cancer were not genetic, but somewhere along the way, either environment or lifestyle choices caused the mutated genes. The most significant finding is that my mutation is HRD-signature-positive. She explained that it doesn’t mean my ovarian cancer is any worse than other types; however, studies have shown that this positive reading is highly receptive to cancer-prohibitive drugs. According to the studies, HRD-signature positive cancer patients who take the drugs live longer and are less likely to experience cancer recurrence. She said it’s like “you won the lottery!” However, the downside is the drug and size effects. It can lower all my blood counts and platelets. I’ll have to be closely monitored at first to ensure I’m taking the correct dosage. But she assured me that she has worked with these drugs for a few years, and most people do extremely well. One other downside is the cost of the drugs, which, even with insurance, will be well over $2,000.00 per year out of pocket. But I’ll happily pay for the peace of mind.

I’m not 100% out of the woods yet. I’ll have a CT on Dec. 12th to ensure that all the cancer is gone and I’ll see Dr. Gorsuch again on Dec. 19th for the results. But I’m feeling so optimistic and so thankful I’m through the worst of it!

I also asked about the spots they’ve seen on my lungs. She feels they will either be gone or greatly reduced. If so, they will just be monitored for now. With the pill, she indicated that even microspocic cells will be killed.

At the end of my 7th Chemo treatment, we celebrated with a bell-ringing ceremony. My daughter Jennifer and her husband, Jason; my sister, Edna; my BIL, Joe; and our dear friends, Vickie and Reece, attended. Edna and Joe had a bundle of roses for me. Vickie and Reece brought me an Everything Bundt Cake (red velvet), and Jennifer made my mama’s persimmon pudding for all to enjoy.

I rang the bell several times and feel so blessed and thankful to God! I was also asked to ring the bell for one of Brad’s classmates’ wives. She never got to finish her treatments before she passed away, so I rang the bell for Tammy, who is cancer-free in heaven. If you want to see Brad’s speech, it’s on Facebook under Rachel Callicutt Harper and Instagram Stories @thepondsfarmhouse.

I also want to thank everyone for all the Happy Birthday wishes and prayers sent my way yesterday. I was overwhelmed with DM’s, emails, text messages,and Messenger well-wishes. My day was emotional but so good in so many ways! Thank you, thank you!

I wanted to leave you with a little excerpt from my daily devotional for November 15th.

“You will always face trouble in life”. But most importantly, you will also have me with you, helping you to handle whatever you encounter. Approached problems with a light touch by viewing them in my revealing light.” Sarah Young from Jesus Calling

Post Surgery Week 13 & Final Chemo Treatment #7 Recovery Week – Nov. 16th – 22nd.

As I enter another week of Chemotherapy recovery, I am so thankful it will be my last. Saturday was, as usual, a good day due to the steroid high. But I know that as today progresses, I’ll begin to feel the effects of the chemo. The good news is it’s short-lived. By next weekend, I’ll be over the worst of it and will get to enjoy Thanksgiving feeling more like myself.

A couple more things I want to take note of from my visit with Dr. Gorsuch on Friday. First, I asked her about the CA-125 Cancer Antigen blood test and how much weight I should put into the fact that the number was within a normal range. She said it was just another tool, but not to worry too much about the numbers. So many factors play into causing it to increase that may or may not be related to cancer. I’m so glad I asked because I got the results yesterday, and my CA-125 is still high at 254. (Normal is 0-38.1)

She had already told me that I’m still healing on the inside. I most likely still have inflammation from the surgery, and that can cause the CA-125 numbers to rise. I’d have loved to see a normal range, but I’m not going to let it worry me. She said they will be looking at my CT scan in a few weeks, and that will determine if the cancer is gone, not what the number on my blood test shows.

Another thing we talked about is the frequent bowel movements since surgery. I assumed it’s all related to the colon resections, and she said it is to some extent, but she also feels I’d benefit from therapy to strengthen my pelvic floor. She feels that the urge to go to the bathroom is more related to a weak pelvic floor than the resections. So I’m being referred for therapy. Anything to help, I’ll be grateful for.

And finally, my hemoglobin is still low at 10.6 but is slowly climbing. I’m still eating lots of protein and hope to get that number back to normal soon.

My daily scripture is from Psalm 73:23-24, and as I’m thinking about all the unknowns I’m still facing, it’s just what I needed on this Sunday morning.

“When the way does not seem clear, that is a protection for you, calling you back into the present moment. Although I inhabit all of space and time, you can communicate with Me only here and now.”

As always, thank you for your support and prayers.

Tuesday, November 18th

I thought I was going to have an easier time with the chemo after effects this round. Monday was a pretty good day. I was able to walk and get some work done. But by evening, the leg and joint pain were pretty intense. I was experiencing indigestion, and I was up and down all night long. Around 3:00 AM, I had to take an anti-nausea pill. That’s the first time I’ve had to take one since I started Chemo. I’m still not feeling great this morning. I hope the discomfort passes soon.

I did receive some good news yesterday. I had mentioned that the cancer inhibitor medication I’ll be taking for the next 2 years is very expensive, and even with my medicare advantage co-pay, the out-of-pocket would be over $2,000. Thankfully, the hospital applied for a grant in my name, and the grant will cover the entire co-pay. So my out-of-pocket will be zero. I was not expecting this, but I’m very thankful.

In addition, the pharmacist called me to discuss the potential side effects and safety precautions while using the drug Niraparib. As with most drugs, there is a long list, but the one that concerns me most is nausea and vomiting. He said that 3 out of 4 will experience some degree of nausea, especially when beginning the medication. He assured me that the anti-nausea medications will be available to help counteract. He also suggests taking the medication at night to reduce the risk of feeling sick. Another big concern is the blood count. My hemoglobin and blood platelets will be monitored closely. And then there were the rare side effects that are even scarier, but thankfully unlikely to occur.

Overall, it sounds like I’ll go through an adjustment period with possible tweaks to the medication, but hopefully my body will adjust and tolerate it for the long term.

I also had a call to set up therapy to help with my weakened pelvic floor. The first available appointment is January 19th. I’m planning to investigate this on my own because I don’t want to wait 2 months for my situation to improve.

In conclusion, I’m optimistic and know these next few days will be over, and I’ll start to heal. I’ll have my CT scan on Dec. 11th and see Dr. Gorsuch on Dec. 19th to confirm that I’m cancer-free. In the meantime, I plan to get through the rest of this week and praise God for all my blessings. We are almost there!

My friend Patty sent me these messages last week!

Thursday, November 20, 2025

It’s finally Thursday, and I’ve made it through the worst days after chemo. After two nights without much sleep, I slept better last night, but I awoke early with feelings of anxiety. Why is it so hard for us to enjoy the good moments without worry of what tomorrow may bring? I recently read that the command to “be not afraid” is repeated more than any other in the Bible. So I guess we have to consistently be reminded that “God Has This”! That we have to trust in his plan for the future because we certainly can’t control it.

Yesterday, I was looking at the bag I have packed for my Chemo treatments and thought I should disassemble it and pack everything away. But I stopped and couldn’t do it. I wasn’t allowing myself to believe it was over. That I’ll not be needing those socks, neck pillows, and blankets again. And then on top of not believing it’s over, I worry about how this cancer inhibitor medication will affect me. Brad told me not to let my imagination run away with me. The side effects are worst-case scenarios, and I may tolerate them easily. I know this is true, and most of the time I’m optimistic. But it’s those early mornings when you wake up early and your mind goes into a tailspin of all the things that can go wrong.

So “be not afraid” is my daily motto! I’m praying for God to give me the strength to overcome my fears and to enjoy the progress I’ve made over the last 6 months. I’ve come too far to let fear cripple me and steal my joy.

I hope you don’t mind me sharing these sometimes less-than-positive feelings. I know many people have similar issues with fear. That’s why “be not afraid” is so prevalent in the bible. I want to share yesterday’s daily scripture with you.

“LEAVE OUTCOMES UP TO ME. Follow Me wherever I lead without worry about how it will all turn out. Think of your life as an adventure with me as our guide and companion. Live in the now, concentrating on staying in step with me.” Sarah Young (Jesus Calling)

Friday, November 21st

I mentioned earlier this week that I’ve been blessed with a grant from Healthwell Foundation, which will cover the out-of-pocket co-pay for the Niraparib medication I’ll be taking for the next two years. I’ve received more information about this non-profit organization and wanted to share it with you. I was unaware of this option, and I’m sure many others are just as in the dark about help with their medical expenses. You may know someone in need of medical cost assistance, or you may be looking for a worthy cause to make tax-deductible contributions to this year.

Healthwell Foundation states that they “have helped over one million people in need of medical cost assistance, but there are millions more Americans struggling to afford critical, potentially lifesaving medical treatments”. If you’d like to know more, here is a link to their website where you can learn more about the foundation or explore making a contribution – click – Healthwell Foundation.

I also want to request prayers for a friend who just found out that her cancer has returned. She’s facing another surgery and 6 months of Chemo again. She has been on my prayer list since she introduced herself to me, and I am so sad she is going through this difficult time, especially right before the holidays. But God is good because she has caught this early and knows her prayers have been answered. She has such a positive attitude.

I’ve been told from the beginning that Ovarian cancer has a high recurrence rate. While in Chapel Hill, the doctors shared with me that they now treat all cancer as a chronic disease. So what is a chronic disease? Google says it’s “A health condition that lasts for a year or more and requires ongoing medical attention, limits daily activities, or both. These conditions often develop slowly over time, cannot typically be cured, but can be managed, and include a wide range of issues like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and asthma.”

But you know, advances are being made every day. Even the cancer inhibitor medication wasn’t available just a few years ago. It’s so expensive because there are still no generic forms available. So we can’t worry about what may come, and if it does, there’s no telling what advances in treatment may be available. We have to trust in God’s plan and continue to praise him for each day. I am praying for my friend’s successful surgery and healing. I’m praying that she has peace in the knowledge that God Has This!

Luke 24:36 “Peace be with you”. and Matthew 28:20 “I am with you always”

Thanksgiving Week – Nov. 23-29 – Post Surgery Week 14

Happy Sunday! I’ve been awake since 4:30 AM, and although I wasn’t having anxiety or worries, I couldn’t go back to sleep. Instead, I was thinking about the holidays and how grateful I am. I love this time of year, and I know it can be stressful. However, my thoughts are about how I want to cherish each moment spent with family and friends. When we are healthy, it is easy to take everyday blessings for granted. I recently saw this quote, and it really hit home.

“Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our Thanksgiving.” — W.T. Purkiser

I just wanted to share this with you this morning as we prepare for Thanksgiving. As we prepare for the hustle and bustle of the next few weeks, I pray that you’ll slow down and enjoy the tiniest of blessings. That you’ll praise God for his abundant love and mercy. And remember this simple quote:

“What if, today, we were grateful for everything?” — Charlie Brown 

Tuesday, November 25th

Today is my first day of freedom. No more quarantine after Chemo. YAY! I’m starting to feel so much better, although I do still have some pain in my feet and numbness in my toes and fingers. I feel this will be completely gone as I continue to recover from the final treatment. I’m taking my vitamin B-12, which seemed to help after previous treatments. So things are looking up healthwise.

Yesterday was a day of sad news. First, our daughter called to say her sweet little Yorkie, Jackson, didn’t make it through the night. She had to take him to the emergency hospital in the middle of the night. We knew this was coming as he had been failing and was so old. We are not exactly sure of his age because he was rescued. They estimated his age between 7 & 8 when they got him, and he has been with them for 8 years.

Then I got word that a dear friend had lost her battle with ovarian cancer. You may remember when I shared the story of getting an early appointment with my oncologist because she had cancelled a surgery. Later, I found out the cancelled surgery was for my friend and ex-neighbor. She was never able to have her cancer removed because her surgery was so high-risk. However, she continued treatments until they were no longer working. She and I were at the cancer center together for one of our treatments. I am just so sad for her family, who are all so precious, and for her, who was such a wonderful person. Please say a prayer for her family and friends who will miss her greatly.

I’m not sharing a photo of my friend because I’m not sure her family would want me to, but here’s a photo of our sweet Jackson.

My daily scriptures this week have been filled with thankfulness and with thanking God, regardless of the circumstances. I guess it’s like looking at the glass half full or half empty. “If you practice Thankfulness consistently, negative thought patterns will gradually grow weaker and weaker”.

So today I’m thankful to have known and been friends with such a wonderful person. I’m grateful that she is no longer suffering and instead is now healed. I’m thankful that Jennifer and Jason rescued Jackson and gave him a wonderful home, and that he is no longer suffering. I am thankful that my health is returning, and I’m so grateful for each of you who follow along on my journey. There is so much to be thankful for; I feel my heart fill and overflow.

Thursday, November 27th – Thanksgiving Day 2025

“A life of praise and thankfulness becomes a life filled with miracles.”

Happy Thanksgiving Day! We made it to our beach cottage and are looking forward to joining our beach neighbors for a wonderful meal and time of thanks. I praise God for carrying me safely to this point in my journey. I am so thankful to be alive and healthy today.

There are so many people I’m thankful for who have prayed, encouraged, and lifted me up when I felt I couldn’t do so myself. The number one person I’m grateful for is Brad, who has been with me every step of the way. He has been by my side, taking care of and feeding me. He never let me feel sorry for myself for too long, and although I complained about him being a drill sergeant, I couldn’t have done it without him. I love you with all my heart.

As I’m counting my blessings and saying my thanks today, there are so many I’d like to thank personally, but I’d surely accidentally leave out a name. So for all of you who prayed daily, sent me multiple cards, text messages, meals, gifts, and calls. I love you and am so, so grateful for your friendship and support. To my sister Edna, and friends Alice and Patty, thank you for your daily messages. Neither of you missed a day checking on me and sending back words of hope and encouragement. Even on the days I didn’t feel like responding, your faithful prayers and attention will never be forgotten. Thank you, and I love each of you!

The first sentence in my daily scripture is “Let Thankfulness Rule in your Heart”! As many of us gather with family and friends, it’s easy to remember to be thankful and to praise God for our blessings. However, we need to remember to offer praise and thank him daily.

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” Psalms 100:4

I pray you have a day filled with joy and many blessings, that you are filled with thankfulness for Each and Every day!

Saturday, November 29th – Thanksgiving Weekend

I hope you are having a fabulous Thanksgiving weekend. We have been enjoying great food and fellowship with our beach family. We are so blessed to have a close relationship with our neighbors and friends. The girls went shopping in Wilmington for Black Friday and enjoyed lunch at a favorite restaurant. Although I didn’t buy anything on this trip, I did get some inspiration for things I want to add to my Christmas decor at home. However, I did take advantage of some online sales. YIKES!

From a health standpoint, I’m still struggling with my digestive system. I’ve been eating differently, and my colon apparently doesn’t like change. So I’m trying not to overindulge for the remainder of our trip. Otherwise, I’m feeling good.

As I read my daily scriptures this morning, I was struck once again by how much the message relates to my situation. It’s as if it were written just for me. It’s too good not to share with you this morning.

“In this age of independence, people find it hard to acknowledge their neediness. However, I have taken you along a path that has highlighted your need for Me, placing you in situations where your strengths were irrelevant, and your weaknesses were glaringly evident. Through the aridity of those desert marches, I have drawn you closer and closer to Myself. You have learned to thank Me for hard times and difficult journeys, trusting that through them I accomplish My best work. You have realized that needing Me is the key to knowing Me intimately, which is the gift above all gifts.”

December 1st – December 6th – Post Surgery 15 Weeks

Wednesday, December 3rd

Hey friends, I’m been slack in updating the journal this week. Not a lot to report on my end. I’m trying to get my diet back to normal, as I’m still experiencing issues, which I hope are from eating differently over the Thanksgiving holiday. I had gained a couple of pounds when we got home on Monday, but I have lost over a pound today. I’m praying that my colon will settle down.

I also want to request a prayer for my friend whose cancer has returned. I mentioned her a few days ago, and her surgery was yesterday. Her outpatient surgery turned into an overnight stay, and I’m praying she will be able to come home today and that all will be good from the surgery.

I’m also praying for another friend whose 3-month check-up was yesterday. She was very anxious about her results, which is understandable. I’m praying she had good news.

I’m already getting anxious about my CT scan next week. I guess my stomach and colon issues have increased the anxiety somewhat. I feel that after 15 weeks, I should be seeing more of an improvement. My logical mind knows it’s properly related to changing my diet over the holiday, but I’m still fearful, and I’m praying that the CT scan is clear and I’m cancer-free. I have a week between the scan and my Doctor appointment, and I hope I can resist looking at the results on MyChart. I’ve learned from experience that I don’t know how to read those reports, and I don’t want to get upset or excited about anything that I may not fully understand. Another thing that is nagging in the back of my mind is the high CA-125 score (254) before my third chemo treatment. I had hoped it would be closer to a normal reading.

In the meantime, it’s really cold here, and I’m trying to get my front porch decorated. Hopefully, the sun will warm the porch this afternoon, and I’ll get it done comfortably. I’m also thankful to be able to decorate, and I can feel my energy increase daily. I’ve come a long way and know that if it is God’s will, I’ll be fully healed. I appreciate all the continued prayers. I’ll keep you up to date as soon as I have anything to report.

My sweet friend gave me “Jesus Calling for Christmas” by Sarah Young, and as I’ve been reading it this morning, this scripture spoke to me.

“The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer: my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalm 18:2

Saturday, December 6th

Hey friends, just a quick update for this first week of December. Yesterday, I realized that it had been 3 weeks since my last chemo treatment, which means I would have normally been having another treatment. I’m so thankful those days are behind me. It still doesn’t feel real.

I’m feeling much better and enjoying making the last touches to my Christmas decorations. I finished my front porch and hope you like the simple decorations I chose this year. We had dinner with my sister and BIL, Joe, for a late birthday celebration for Joe and me. The restaurant owner insisted we have a photo by the Christmas tree.

We’re gearing up for a busy holiday season with several activities to keep us occupied. I have a girls’ day out next week, and I’ll be getting the CT scan on Thursday. Praying for good results.

From Thursday on, it’s non-stop activities. I’m just so thankful I’ll be able to participate in all the festivities.

I’m so grateful for God’s healing and for all the continued prayers. My medication for the cancer inhibitor arrived yesterday, and I’ll be starting it sometime after my Dec. 19th doctor’s appointment. I’m hoping to hold off until after Christmas since I’m unsure what side effects I may experience.

I wanted to share these two messages I received this week. I also wanted to share that my friend who had surgery earlier this week is home and recovering nicely without much pain. And my other friend, who was worried about her three-month check-up, got a good report. Praise the lord! So grateful for each of you for following along and for your prayers.

December 7th – 13th – Post Surgery 16 Weeks

Are you getting into the Christmas spirit? Our weather has been cold and dreary, and I’ve let it keep me indoors. I’ve let it stop me from doing the very thing I said I wouldn’t do this year. I said I’d get out and take advantage of all the holiday festivities. This past weekend was the first weekend of festivities in an old Gold Mining town. I’ve been before, and it’s just a fun place to explore with a few shops and a restaurant. I looked up the schedule weeks ago and said we are going. However, we didn’t go because it was “cold”! I woke up this morning so mad at myself.

It made me start thinking about all the excuses we’ve made for not doing things in the past. Excuses like “do we really want to fight the crowd”, “the tickets are too expensive”, “we’ll do it another time”, “maybe next year”, and “it’s too cold”! So I’ve made up my mind to stop with the excuses. I want to get fully into the Christmas spirit. I wrote down a few things we can do that don’t cost anything (or not much).

1. Look for free events in your community or surrounding towns.
   • Christmas parades
   • Downtown events – Asheboro has Christmas on Sunset this Friday night. Everyone will be on the streets. Many small towns have fun events. Google “Christmas events” in your surrounding towns, and you’ll be surprised at what you may find.
   • Drive through neighborhoods and see the Christmas lights.
2. Attend local church Christmas plays and events.
3. Plan a day out with your girlfriends.
   • We have a small group, and we go to a different small town each year before Christmas and explore. We are going to Kernerville, NC, tomorrow for lunch and shopping in the quaint downtown.
   • Go shopping (even if you have all your gifts, go for the fun of it.)
   • Have lunch at a new spot.
4. Begin watching your favorite Christmas movies! We watch Christmas Vacation each year without fail, but I’d like to watch some that I don’t see as often. Here’s a short list and some that Brad will roll his eyes at. What’s your favorite?
   • Love Actually
   • The Holiday
   • Miracle on 34th Street
   • Polar Express
   • It’s a Wonderful Life
5. Play Christmas music all month.
6. Experiment with new recipes to serve your family. I’ve been experimenting with mocktail recipes and so far have made some delicious non-alcoholic concoctions that are perfect for Christmas entertaining. I’ll be sharing my recipes on the blog soon.
7. Read your favorite Christmas books.
   • I’ve collected several vintage Children Christmas books that I use to decorate with such as “The Night Before Christmas” and “Frosty The Snowman”. I love reading them because they take me back to my childhood and the magical time of believing.
   • Read stories and scriptures about the real Christmas story. I’ve been savoring “Jesus Calling for Christmas” by Sarah Young. It’s a short read but I’ve been reading a devotion each day and letting the scriptures sink in.

As we celebrate the season, it’s easy to get lost in the stress of getting everything done, of the hustle and bustle and forget what we are truly celebrating. Take a moment each day to be thankful and to praise God for his blessings! Go and embrace this holiday season to it’s fullest.

“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name “Immanuel”, which translated. “God with us”. Matthew 1:23

I hope these ideas will enhance your Christmas spirit and help you to embrace each moment of this wonderful holiday season.

Thursday, December 11, 2025

I’m awake early today after another night of multiple bowel issues. I’ve not mentioned it lately because it seems to be my new normal. I have good days and bad days; however, last night was one of the worst I’ve had in a while. It doesn’t seem to be related to my diet unless I overeat. I’ve gained a couple of pounds, so that’s an improvement. I just hope that I’ll eventually have some improvement in my digestive system. It’s been almost 4 months since my surgery, and I know that complete healing hasn’t occurred yet.

I have my CT scan today at 3:15. I’m praying that all is good and that I’m cancer-free. I won’t know the details until next Friday when I see Dr. Gorsuch. I’ll be honest, I’m a little anxious and worried about the results. I know that it’s all in God’s hands, and I’m trying hard to have faith that the worst is behind me and I’ll be healed. The first sentence of my daily devotion was “I am working on your behalf.” And I know he is, but it’s hard to keep doubts from creeping in.

In the meantime, we are trying to enjoy this Christmas season. I had a wonderful day out with my girlfriends on Tuesday. I am so grateful to be healthy enough to participate and hang out with this crazy, fun group this year. Each Every year, we visit a different small town. We have lunch and shop in downtown quaint shops. This year, we were in Kernersville, NC. We found a great little market that sold old-timey candies, nuts, and other packaged items made in North Carolina. I had one of those coconut bars with the strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate stripes. I’ve not seen one in years. It was a little sweeter than I remembered, but other than a little bite I gave Brad, I ate the whole thing. We stopped in at a vintage vendor shop, and I found the cutest snowman planter. Although I didn’t buy much, we had a great time, laughing the whole time.

I appreciate you for following along and your continued prayers for healing. My friend Patty sent me a message of hope that I want to share with you.

December 14- 20 – Post Surgery Week 17

As we enter this last full week before Christmas, I’m taking a moment to rest and be thankful for my many blessings. This past week has been filled with activities. I said I wanted to take advantage of all the seasonal activities, so I booked almost every day. We had a good week of holiday activities, from attending Christmas on Sunset to visiting a historic gold-mining town for its Christmas Celebration, to a couple of girlfriend activities, the week was packed.

As I sit here looking at this week’s calendar, it’s just as packed with holiday activities. So today I’ll rest and spend some time with my devotions. Some quiet time giving thanks and praying for those on my prayer lists. I think it’s important to take a time out from the hustle and bustle and spend some time remembering why we are celebrating the season.

I had my follow-up CT scan on Thursday and am trying to stay worry-free. One of the many activities for this week includes blood work and a Doctor visit. I’ll learn the results of the CT scan and details about taking the cancer inhibitor ZEJULA (Niraparib). So I’ll have an update after Friday. I’m praying for positive results from the scan and that I’ll have minimal side effects from the drug.

As we move into these last days before Christmas, I pray you are enjoying the season. I appreciate all the messages of encouragement and prayers.

Wednesday, December 17th

As temperatures were unseasonably low on Sunday and Monday, we spent most of our time indoors, cleaning house and resting. I find I still need rest on some days by mid-afternoon.

By Tuesday, the temperatures began to rise, and we had a full day. Brad’s aunt and her best friend came for a visit, and we took them out for lunch. She is our last living aunt, and we had such an enjoyable time with both of them. It was a blessing to spend some quality time with them.

Last night, we crossed another item off our holiday-season bucket list. We went to the restored Sunset Theater for Bantum Rooster’s Rockin’ Christmas. It was so uplifting and fun. This was our first time attending, though we had heard from years past how wonderful the concert was. It was also our first time back in the Sunset Theater since it was restored. Our very first date was in that theater, so it was nostalgic to be back inside, full of sweet memories from our early days.

This morning, I’m off for another girlfriend activity at a friend’s house, then lunch afterward. It will be a full day of reminiscing and much laughter. I’m blessed and so thankful for great friends.

The week is speeding by, and I’ve received the CT scan results on MyChart, but I refuse to open them. I’ll wait until my doctor explains it to me on Friday. Thank you for your uplifting messages and continued prayers that the results are good!

Saturday, December 20, 2025

Hey friends, Sorry for the late update. I know many of you are waiting to hear the results of my CT scan. I didn’t get the news I was hoping for, and it’s taken me a while to absorb and accept the news. First, they cannot say that I’m cancer-free because there are some minimal bumps and soft tissue thickening in the area close to my colon. There is a possibility that it is scarring or inflammation still coming from the surgery, but they can’t say for sure. It is less than what appeared there on my Sept. scan. In addition, I still have fluid in my right lung, which is also less than from the previous scan. Bottom line, she can’t say I’ve still got cancer, but certainly can’t say that I don’t.

Due to my frequent bowel movements and these findings, she feels I’m not healing as I should, so I’m back on a strict high-protein diet of 100-125 grams a day. In addition, I need strength training to build muscle and stability.

The worst news is inaddition to the cancer inhibitor pill (which I’ll be starting on December 29th), she highly recommends that I start bevacizumab infusions every 3 weeks for 90 minutes for 2 years. This is an anti-blood vessel treatment to prevent cancer cells from developing. Although it is a form of chemotherapy, it doesn’t have the same side effects as the chemo I previously had. I shouldn’t lose my hair or have the pain associated with it. However, I’ll be on a high blood pressure medication because this drug will increase my blood pressure, and there’s a risk of blood clots. I’ll also be monitoring my blood pressure daily. Another risk is wound dehiscence, which is the reopening or separation of a surgical incision. Therefore, although she strongly recommends it, she’s somewhat concerned about the colon resections and the risk that they may not have heal sufficiently.

The only good news is that her patients using the Zejula Niraparib pill have had minimal side effects. So I’m praying I will also.

All of this is optional for me. However, she said the Zejula pill is a conservative approach to treating stage 4 aggressive ovarian cancer, and taking the drug along with the infusion is an aggressive approach. She asked what my goal was, and Brad replied, “to live,” and she said she felt I should take the aggressive approach.

All my blood work came back normal, except my hemoglobin is still at 11, which should be 14 or above in the normal range. I’ve not received the CA-125 results yet.

I’ll be starting the pill on Dec. 29th and will have blood work and see the doctor again on Jan. 9th. We will decide on the infusion then.

Thank you for your prayers and continued support. I’m feeling more optimistic today than yesterday. I am praying that we make the right decisions on my treatments going forward. It’s a lot to take in, and although I had hoped for a cancer-free report, I was hoping that it would be over. We will take it one step at a time, and I know I’ll get there. The worst is behind me, and we will do whatever is necessary to keep moving forward.

This was my scripture from Friday morning, and when I read it, I felt I was going to need it when I heard what the doctor was going to say. I tried to shut it down and forget it, but it turned out to be exactly what I was supposed to hear.

December 21 -27, 2025

Hey friends, I wanted to pop on to wish you a Merry Christmas and to thank you for all your messages of encouragement. I’m accepting that I’m facing a new normal. I had hoped that my life would return to normal once my Chemotherapy and surgery were behind me, but it was not to be. I still have questions about the infusion treatments before deciding to proceed with the aggressive treatment. However, I’ll be starting the Zejula pill on Dec. 29th.

I received the CA-125 blood test results, and it was still high at 176. This result still doesn’t confirm that I still have cancer. It could be inflammation, since I haven’t healed 100% from surgery.

I’m trying to follow the doctor’s orders, and I’ve increased my protein intake and exercise routine. Hopefully, by my next appointment on Jan. 9th, I’ll be much improved. In the meantime, we are still enjoying the holiday season. We had some friends visit on Sunday afternoon and enjoyed catching up.

We also marked another Christmas item off our bucket list by visiting the Denton Farm Park Country Christmas Train on Monday night. It was a fun and festive evening, and I’m so glad we finally went. There were a lot of activities to keep you busy in addition to the train ride.

We especially enjoyed the group singing in the old church. The entire event centers on the true meaning of Christmas, and it’s a great one for kids and the young at heart.

I wish each of you a blessed and safe Christmas! God bless you and keep you!

December 28, 2025 – January 3, 2026

Hey friends, I’ve been a little absent as we celebrated Christmas and then immediately left for the beach. It’s not that I haven’t had time to write in my journal; it’s that I’ve felt disconnected. It’s normal to feel a little melancholy after the holiday rush is over, but I think I’ve allowed myself to become depressed. Although I’ve been surrounded by friends and Brad has tried to boost me up, I feel so alone. I know it’s mostly due to the uncertainty about what lies ahead in my healing process. I’m still shaken by the news from my last doctor’s visit. I had wanted to hear, “You are cancer-free,” so badly. With all the Christmas activities, I was able to push my disappointment aside and enjoy the moments. Now, the reality has settled back into my consciousness, and I’m having a hard time shaking it off and having a positive outlook.

Then, yesterday, I read “What to do when you are in a Spiritually Dry Season” by Yvonne on the Stone Gable Blog and realized I’d let my faith slip. I’ve allowed myself disconnect, and instead of focusing on the good days, I’m fixated on the hard road ahead.

“It’s easy to become focused only on what feels hard or uncertain. In those moments, keeping your head up matters. Watch for God to reveal Himself in small and unexpected ways. Look for reminders of his care, his faithfulness, and his presence, even when the path seems difficult.” Yvonne at Stone Gable Blog.

I realized I’m in a spiritually dry season and must cling to Jesus more than ever.

“Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.” Psalm 9:10

So today I choose to enjoy each day, each moment, and look for the miracles that surround me. I’ll be starting my cancer inhibitor, Zejula, tonight, and I’m praying I have no side effects. Another step forward to my full recovery.

Yvonne writes inspiring bible lessons each Sunday on her blog. You can read the entire lesson and subscribe to her blog here.

Last Day Of 2025 – December 31

Hey friends, as we close out 2025, I’m happy to report that I’ve started taking my Zejula PARP Inhibitor medication, and so far, so good. I’ve had two dosages without any noticeable side effects. I was really worried about nausea because it’s my most dreaded form of sickness. However, so far I’ve not experienced any nausea. I’ll be getting blood work on January 9th to check your blood count. Another worrisome side effect is a low count of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Potentially a sign of bone marrow problems, but I’ll be monitored closely for any of these symptoms. Just praying that I’m lucky and none of the potential side effects will occur.

(You may be asking what a PARP inhibitor is? PARP stands for Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, which doesn’t tell me much. However, it is a crucial enzyme family in cells that repairs damaged DNA; in medicine, PARP inhibitors block this enzyme to kill cancer cells, especially those with existing DNA repair defects such as BRCA mutations. My cancer has been classified with these DNA mutations and should be highly responsive to Zejula.)

We are enjoying our time at the beach, but it’s drawing to a close. We will celebrate NYE tonight with our friends here and then travel home to begin the new year. Since I wrote my last update, I’ve once again put my faith in God to carry me through the trials of the coming year and know that all be good. I’m much more optimistic and determined to get strong and healthy as we enter the new year.

I’m hoping your NYE is fun and safe, and that your NEW YEAR is amazing! I hope you have a blessed year with many moments of JOY! Happy NEW YEAR!

Friday, January 2, 2026

Good morning, friends! I hope your new year is off to a great start! We traveled home from the beach yesterday, so it was a tiring day, and all I really did was rest. I’m still not seeing any obvious side effects from the Zejula medication. Praise the Lord!

My daily devotion yesterday was filled with the promise of a good new year, and I’m clinging to these words. “I also know the plans I have for you: plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future!” Words that give me hope and faith that this year will be better than the last.

Next Friday, I’ll get blood work and see the doctor again. I have several questions before I agree to the infusions she has recommended.

• Since she couldn’t confirm whether I’m cancer-free or not, when will they test me again? What about a PET Scan? They have never mentioned that I have one.
• If I’m not cancer-free, will the Zejula medication kill the cancer that’s already there as well as prevent new cells from forming?
• If not, will the bevacizumab infusions kill any cancer that already exists?
• If not, what is the plan to ensure that I’m cancer-free?
• I’ve already heard the worst possible side effect from the infusions, but how will I feel after the infusions? Will I have days of recovery like my previous chemotherapy treatments?
• Since she’s concerned I’m not 100% healed, how long should I wait before starting the infusions? How will I know if I’m 100% healed and it’s safe to begin infusions?
• When I begin the infusions, will I start on blood pressure medication immediately, or will I be monitored to see if my blood pressure is affected?
• Is bevacizumab infusion the only option in my situation, and if not, why is it the one that’s recommended?
• Lastly, will I once again be on a food restriction? Such as no rare steaks, sushi, no salads, or other raw vegetables in restaurants.

At this point, I’m beginning to see some minor improvements in my digestive system. I’m eating 100-120 grams of protein daily, and I’m exercising more. I’ve added a weighted vest to my daily walk, and I can really tell a difference. I only wear it for a mile to 1 1/2 miles because I feel I need to work up to wearing it for the whole walk. Right now, I have 8 lbs in it, but I can increase that as I build strength. I’m also adding handheld weights and doing my core-building yoga. I’m willing to do whatever it takes, and I’m praying all of this will get me 100% healed.

Thank you so much for following along and making My Healing Journal the #2 most-read post on my blog last year. Your concern and faithful support mean so much to me. I hope that the recording of my journey will help you or someone you know. That you know the highs and lows associated with a serious illness. Most importantly, that it’s out of our hands and we have to trust and put our faith in God to protect us and bring us through the hard days. I truly believe I’m as healthy as I am today due to the many prayers that have surrounded me these last few months. I am so grateful to all of you who have been praying and sending me messages of hope. Have the best NEW YEAR!

January 4 – 10th – A New Year!

Sunday, January 4th – Hey friends, I hope your first few days of 2026 are off to a great start. We are back from our beach getaway and are almost ready to decorate the house for winter. Even though I used only a fraction of the usual decor, taking down the Christmas decorations still took a couple of days with Brad’s help. This year, I left some greenery and other items up for the dreary winter months. I’ll be sharing my winter decoration ideas in an upcoming blog post.

I’m still feeling pretty good after starting the Zejula medication. We had dinner out at my favorite special occasion restaurant to celebrate my friends’ and Brad’s birthdays! It was so nice to feel normal and be doing normal things. My favorite dish there is Seared Tuna, and because of my restricted diet during Chemo, I couldn’t eat it rare. So this was our first visit in many months, and it was delicious as usual.

I am so grateful for good health and the return to what I’m calling my new normal. I’m looking at all the positive things that happened last year and refusing to dwell on the negative. The first sentence of my daily devotional said, “Make a habit of saying ‘ I Trust You Jesus’ in response to whatever happens to you.” And then I ran across this verse, and I thought it summed up my attitude for the new year.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8

With these two thoughts in mind, I’m counting down the days until my blood work and doctor’s visit. I’ll keep you updated about the answers I get to my many questions about starting the suggested infusions.

I pray you have a blessed and healthy week ahead, and I’ll be in touch.

Thursday, January 8th

Hey friends, I thought I’d pop on with an update. Things are still going well with Zejula, and I feel deeply blessed. I’ll have blood work tomorrow to see how the medication is affecting my blood cells. I’m praying all is good there as well. I’ll also get answers about the proposed infusion and the questions I previously shared.

This week has been spent making up for lost time. While on chemo, I was taken off my low-dose cholesterol medication, couldn’t get my teeth cleaned, or have my annual mammogram. So I’ve been setting up the appointments. I had my teeth cleaned and saw my primary doctor yesterday. My teeth looked good and didn’t show any damage from chemo. I had blood work to evaluate my cholesterol medication needs. It appears I’ll be going back on the same medication for that, and I’ll have my mammogram on Monday. Whew, it’s been a busy week.

I’ll share the results of tomorrow’s visit with you soon. Have a blessed day!

Saturday, January 10th

Well, friends, here’s the update from my doctor’s visit and blood work yesterday. First, although I’ve felt good since being on the Zejula medication, a side effect can be low blood platelets and anemia. Thankfully, I’m holding steady with a slightly low hemoglobin, which I’ve had since surgery. So she was happy with my blood work.

I asked about how they will determine if I’m cancer-free, and she said I’ll have another CT scan in March. I asked about a PET Scan and she said they were not effective for this type of cancer, that the CT scan was the best for detection. I knew that none of my friends who have had ovarian cancer had PET scans, so I felt that would be the answer. She said PET scans were effective for certain types of cancer, but not ovarian cancer.

Then I asked about the side effects of the bevacizumab infusions. She said that I shouldn’t feel any different after the infusion. The main side effect is high blood pressure, but like all the other side effects, I may not experience that. If I do, they will most likely prescribe a high blood pressure medication. I will be asked to monitor my blood pressure at home, so I ordered a blood pressure monitor. I’ll need to get a baseline at home before I begin my infusion on January 23rd.

The other question I had was whether the pill and/or the infusion would actually kill as well as inhibit cancer cells. She said this is the goal of both. The decision to begin the infusion was ours alone. She just said that if I wanted to take an aggressive approach to 100% healing, this was it. I want this cancer out of my body, and as long as I can tolerate the treatments, I will take the aggressive approach.

Another plus is that the infusions can be scheduled around major events, holidays, or travel. The schedule isn’t as strict as the previous chemo treatments. I will not lose my hair (if it ever grows back LOL) or have down days after the infusion. So, other than the 90-minute infusion every three weeks, I can live my life.

Although I wasn’t thrilled when all of this was first suggested, I’m feeling at peace about the whole process. This will be my new normal for the next two years, and it could be so much worse. I praise God for bringing me through the worst of this disease and will continue to have faith that I’ll come out cancer-free and live a long life.

My daily scripture calendar summed it up perfectly.

“You may encounter many obstacles as you move toward your goal, but don’t be discouraged… never give up! With MY help, you can overcome any obstacle.” Psalm 56:3-4

January 11 – 17, 2026

Hey friends, just wanted to pop in to say there’s not much to share! LOL. The main thing on my mind is whether I’ve made the right choice to proceed with the infusions. I’ve been praying that I’ve made the right decision. I wish I had a crystal ball to predict the future. Since I don’t, I’ve been reading scriptures that help.

“I will not show you what is on the road ahead, but I will thoroughly equip you for the journey. My living presence is your companion each step of the way.” John 15:4

The only other update is that I did finally receive my CA-125 Cancer Antigen report on Saturday. Unfortunately, it is still high at 142. It’s down from December, when it was 176. Although I’ve been told not to worry about the results, I really wish it were in the normal zone. I’d feel more confident that I’m cancer-free. I really want to be cancer-free!

I think I’m finally getting caught up on all my belated doctor appointments. I had my mammogram yesterday, and since it was in Greensboro, I met my daughter for lunch. We then did a little thrift store shopping, and I found nothing to bring home. I was so disappointed. But that’s thrifting for you.

Finally, in other news, we have begun planning our postponed trip to Italy. I think we are also going to visit Greece. The itinerary is different from the trip we had planned for last year, but I know it will be great. This gives us something to look forward to, and my doctor said there is no reason not to start planning and scheduling.

Friday, January 16, 2026

Happy Cold Friday morning. I hope you are staying warm and having a good week. I’ve been very active on my blog this week. Cold weather has kept me indoors, so I was able to get several projects done.

For the most part, everything has been good this week. My mammogram results showed no abnormalities. I received the result of my blood work and my doctor recommended that I begin taking the same low dose cholesterol medication that was prescibed before my chemo treatment.

Another concern that I’ve not really talked about is that the hearing in my right ear has been impaired since my surgery. It feels stopped up, and I have a swishing sound that has improved slightly since surgery but I’m not hearing well out of that ear. I’ve mentioned this issue at the cancer center but they tell me my ear looks clear of fluid, etc. I talked to my family physican and at that time she saw some fluid behind the ear drum. She prescribed a nasal spray but I’m seeing no improvement after using it for a week. The next step will be to see an specialist to see if there’s anything to help. I felt it would improve with time but it’s approaching 5 months with no improvement. I’m almost deaf in that ear and I’m concerned the damage is permanent. Praying it’s not!

I’ve received my dumb bells and started doing a simple beginners routine. The next morning my back was achy so I’m taking it slow. I can tell that my core strength needs to build slowly as I feel some discomfort in my abdomen when doing certain core yoga poses. Although the doctor is pushing me toward strength building with weights, I feel I need to listen to my body and take it slow to begin with. If I injury myself, I will not be able to do anything.

In other news we are having Brad’s family here this weekend for a late Christmas gathering. We had to postpone at Christmas due to illness. We are looking forward to finally getting to see everyone. So that’s about it for this weeks update. Thank you for following along.

Sunday, January 18th – 5 Months After Surgery

Happy Sunday! I’m sharing today with a grateful heart. It’s been 5 months today since my surgery. At times it feels like that, so long ago, and other times it all feels like I’m still living in the nightmare. But thankfully, when those times come, I usually wake up and realize it was only a bad memory. I have improved so much. Other than the occasional bouts of tiredness and some lingering bowel issues, I feel that I’ve come out on the other side. That I’m through the worst of my journey.

This is also the 8-month anniversary of my first chemo treatment, and I’m so thankful they are in my past as well.

I’m thankful to have spent time with our family last night. We finally had our late Christmas dinner. Our 10-month-old great-nephew was our entertainment for the evening. It’s been a long time since we had a baby in the house, and Sawyer is adorable and so happy.

Friday is the big day this week. I’ll be starting the bevacizumab infusions and praying for no side effects. The infusion lasts 90 minutes, compared to 5 1/2 hours in my previous treatments. It will still be a long morning because I have blood work and a doctor visit before beginning the infusion.

In the meantime, I’ll be working on more projects and staying busy. I can’t be idle for long. When I’m not busy, my worries begin to resurface. So it’s creating as usual for me most days. I’ve been pulling out some of my old school crafts that I’ve not done in years and sharing the tutorials on the blog. It reminded me of how relaxing some of these techniques are. I shared how to make a crochet dishcloth last week with beginner crochet instructions.

“Research has shown that repetitive hand movements—like those in crochet—activate the ‘relaxation response,’ first introduced by Dr. Herbert Benson of Harvard Medical School. This is the same response triggered by yoga and meditation. When you crochet, your heart rate slows, blood pressure decreases, and cortisol (the stress hormone) drops.” Excerpt from Simply Hooked Blog on the benefits of Crochet.

Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing more old-school crafts that anyone can do. If you are looking to create something that will take your mind of your worries, be sure to subscribe to the blog so you don’t miss any of my posts.

I wanted to share this excerpt from my daily scripture.

“Walk hand in hand with me through this day. I have lovingly planned every inch of the way. Trust does not falter when the path becomes rocky and steep. Breathe deep draughts of My Presence, and hold tightly to My hand. Together we can make it.” Calling Jesus by Sarah Young

Saturday, January 24th

I wanted to give you an update about my infusion and blood work from yesterday. First, my blood count and platelet count were slightly below the normal range, and the doctor said the decline would most likely continue with Zejula. Therefore, she reduced my dosage by half. Instead of 200 mg per day, I’ll now be taking 100 mg. Thankfully, they weren’t so low that I couldn’t continue with my infusion.

The infusion was a breeze compared to the previous chemo treatments. There were no prep medications, and once they received the medication, it only took about 30 minutes. However, it felt like we waited forever for the medication to be sent up. We were at the cancer center from 8:30 to 11:30, which included my blood work and doctor’s visit. Still so much better than my previous treatments.

I have not had any obvious symptoms from the infusion and feel good. I’m having to monitor my blood pressure both in the morning and at night to detect any changes. I hope I’ll not experience any high blood pressure from the infusions. I’ve been lucky so far with either mild or no side effects from my treatments and pray that continues.

We are currently bracing for the possibility of power outages due to ice, followed by extremely low temperatures here this weekend. We are as prepared as possible, with extra food and our generator working. We can’t run the heat downstairs on the generator, but it will run the upstairs unit. Hopefully, we won’t freeze. I think Jennifer and Jason are coming to stay with us. Greensboro is likely to be hit harder than we are, and they don’t have the backup resources we have, so we are encouraging them to stay here until it blows over.

I hope you are safe and warm this weekend. It sounds like it could be one for the record books, but I’m praying they are wrong.

As always, thank you for all your messages and well wishes.

Week of January 25- 31

Good Monday morning, friends. I hope everyone is staying warm and safe. We were fortunate not to lose power, and all is good here at The Ponds Farmhouse as the storm has passed. There is still ice on the roads, so we will be staying indoors today.

Healthwise, I’m doing well. Feeling normal after my infusion on Friday. I’m monitoring my blood pressure, which is also still in normal range. I’ve reduced my Zejula dosage by half as instructed and am praying it will bring my blood counts back into the normal range.

In other news, Rudy had his surgery last week. Since he’s no longer having honeymoons, he got a little snip. He’s doing good. He’s been super excited because Millie is here with Jennifer & Jason. They came due to expected power outages, but Greensboro didn’t lose power either. Oh well, it’s been fun having them here.

I probably won’t update again until the weekend, unless something unforeseen occurs. I appreciate all the messages and prayers. They are working, praise the lord.

February 1 – 7, 2026

Hey, friends, it’s February, and we are snowed in today. This is the first major snowstorm we’ve had in years. It snowed all day yesterday, and it’s beautiful. We are also experiencing the coldest winter we’ve had in years, so we’ve been indoors for the most part. 

I’m getting behind on my walking, and I don’t like it. I’m still trying to rebuild my strength and muscle tone. 

I’ve not experienced any obvious side effects from the infusion I had 9 days ago. My blood pressure has been steady so far. 

I feel blessed that I’m tolerating everything well. 

Did I mention that my right ear finally opened up? It had been stopped up since my surgery. I didn’t hear well beforehand, so it was distressing to be almost deaf in that ear. I was using some nasal spray my family doctor prescribed, but it was making my head hurt, so I stopped using it. Then, about 4 days later, I was hearing out of my ear again. I’m so thankful!  After all this time, I felt sure it was permanent damage. I’m still unsure whether the nasal spray opened it up or if time took care of it. Either way, I’m so relieved to hear a little better. 

I’m still praying to be cancer-free on my next scan and keeping the faith that God is answering my prayers. I’ve come so far and couldn’t have done so without faith that I’d see better days. I hope you have a blessed week and stay warm.

 “In your strength I can crush an army: with my God I can scale any wall.” Psalm 18:29

Tuesday, February 3

Hey friends, we are still snowed in, and now we are expecting more possible winter weather tomorrow. I’m staying sane by focusing on some “old-school crafts” and DIY projects. I’ve crocheted dishcloths, a scarf, and eyeglass protectors. I’ve been experimenting with new to me crochet stitches and used several to create my new scarf. You can see the ones I’ve shared on the blog, and the others will be coming soon. I’ve been sharing a new tutorial for these crafts each week as part of a winter crafting series.

Did you know that crochet, like many other crafting projects, is a great stress reliever? They also give you a sense of accomplishment that helps to avoid depression. Since I’ve been recovering, I’ve picked up many of those “old-school crafts” that I haven’t thought about in years. I’ve made some lovely things, and I encourage you, if you are experiencing winter blues, to try a new craft or pick up one you’ve forgotten about.

I’ve had several people question me about how I’m getting the recommended protein each day. I’ll be honest, it’s a challenge to get 120 grams. Many have mentioned protein shakes or drinks. My doctor says you only absorb a fraction of the liquid protein and encouraged me to get my daily count with foods that go slowly through the digestive system, allowing them to be absorbed by the body. Therefore, I’ve been seeking out recipes that are high in protein, like the Mexican Chicken Casserole I shared on Monday. I’ll continue to share recipes as I discover them.

One way I’ve been getting a jump-start on my daily protein is through my breakfast. With many people sharing that their doctors are encouraging a high-protein diet (even those not recovering from surgery or chemo), I thought I’d share my favorite breakfast that gets me ahead of the game first thing in the morning with 45 grams of protein.

• Low-Fat or Non-Fat Plain Greek Yogurt – that doesn’t contain Carrageenan. See below for details.
• Flavcity Vanilla Protein Powder (mixed with the yogurt) – My daughter assures me while all protein isn’t created equally, this is a healthy protein powder. You want to avoid protein enriched foods that contain carrageenan, a seaweed derived protein that is used to increase protein but has been linked with cancer, intestional damage, inflamation, and gut issues. This ingredient can be disguised and may be listed on the ingredients as Iris Moss, Seaweed Extract, or PES (Processed Eucheuma Seaweed). Thankfully, she is  a label reader and keeps me on the right path.
• Homemade Granola – Click to see recipe.
• Blueberries

A dear friend sent me this reminder today and I wanted to share it with you. Please pass along to anyone struggling with a life altering diagnosis.

Week of February 8th – 14th 2026

Hey friends,

Another week of snowy roads and cold weather has kept us indoors.  I’ve been feeling guilty because I’m not doing enough to increase my strength.  I’m letting the weather keep me from walking like I’m used to.  However, I’m really doing well overall.   I’ve finally gained about 2 pounds. (probably because I’m not walking! LOL)  Brad has been buying me Girl Scout cookies, and I’ve been consuming them at an alarming rate.  I’m eating well, but just can’t seem to get my weight up.  I’m sure that Dr. Gorsuch will give me another lecture on Friday if I’ve not gained enough.  I’m not telling her about the Girl Scout Cookies, so shhh.  

I’m preparing for Friday’s infusion and praying that my blood count is back to normal.   I’ve also been continuing with my crochet therapy (LOL). I’m having fun experimenting with new stitches and creating fun accessories. This week I made eyeglass holders, and they are so cute. If you’d like to see the instructions, you can click here. Doing these projects helps to take my mind off myself and focus on something creative.

In other news, I had the privilege of speaking with a new friend this week.  She has an incredible story of surviving ovarian cancer.  After a surgery that couldn’t remove all the cancer, and being unable to tolerate the chemo treatments, she beat all the odds and is now cancer-free.  She said it just dried up, and she now goes every 6 months for scans.  

She said, “She was ready to give up, but God had another plan for her”.  It’s so inspiring, and I know that these miracles happen because God is in control.   After we talked for a while, we realized that we see the same doctors and we both know we are in good hands.  It really encouraged me to stay positive and to not give in to my fears.  There will be a light at the end of the tunnel for me, too.  

I’ll touch base again after my blood work and infusion to let you know the results.  In the meantime, thank you for your support and have a blessed week.

Saturday, February 14th

Hey friends Happy Valentine’s Day!

Here’s a quick update on my week. I went for bloodwork and infusion on Friday. The good news is my blood counts are back in the normal range except for my hemoglobin which is staying steady at 10.4. Nothing to worry about apparently.  I had my infusion and it went good. It didn’t take as long as the first one. We were back in Asheboro for an early lunch. 

In other news I joined a bible study this week and really enjoyed meeting some wonderful ladies and they made me feel so welcomed.  We are studying Laminations which I was unfamiliar with. However, I was able to really relate to the scriptures on a personal level. It brought back many of the ways I felt during my darkest days after surgery and also reinforced how turning to God gave me peace.

“The steadfast love of the lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end;  they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.  “The Lord is my portion” says my soul therefore I will hope in him.” Lamentations 3: 22-24

Lastly, I’ve been busy with new craft and home decor projects. I made another fun scarf and some easy placemats. I experimented some new stitches on the scarf so I’ve not shared the pattern yet. It’s a little more complicated than some of the beginning patterns I’ve shared. I did share the pattern and instructions for these cute placemats.  They are so easy to make and add fun texture to any table setting.  

February 15-21, 2026 – Post Surgery 6 Months this week. 

It’s hard to believe it’s been almost 6 months since my surgery. It’s definitely been a roller coaster ride, but I know the worst is behind me for sure. 

Since I posted yesterday, I received my CA-125 cancer antigen results and was disappointed that it’s still high at 122. However, it is lower than the Jan. 9th test results, which were 142. So maybe it just takes time to get back to normal. I’m trying not worry about this number, but I really want to be cancer-free.  I’m scheduled for two more infusions, and then she will schedule another CT-Scan to see if the areas of concern have disappeared.  Praying that they have.  

When I got the results, we were in the car traveling to the beach, and I let my mind take control, and then anxiety built. By the time we arrived, I had calmed somewhat. Then, this morning, I was reminded once again of God’s promise as I read my daily devotion.  As many times as I’ve been reminded and know the truth, it’s so easy to slip back into worry and fear.  

Here is the first sentence I read this morning, and as seems to happen, I feel it was written just for me on this day.  I’ve shared many times that I have control issues, and letting go of trying to control a situation is hard, but once I let go and trust, it is when the fear and anxiety disappear.

“Come to me with all your weaknesses: physical, emotional, and spiritual.  Rest in the comfort of my Presence, remembering that NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH ME.  

I have my 6-month checkup on Friday. I was scheduled to see Dr. Tucker, but they called to tell me my exam would be conducted by her assistant and her (Dr. Tucker)! would see me briefly at the end of my appointment. I’m not happy with this, as I have questions I want to ask her. So I hope she’s prepared to spend some time answering my questions.  The last time I saw her, I was in such a state of shock from the surgery that I didn’t ask hardly any questions, so I’d like to have a few things clarified. 

I’m sure it will all work out, and I’ll update after my appointment. In the meantime, we are spending a few days at the beach. We had dinner at our favorite restaurant.  They were very busy on Valentine’s evening, but we were able to grab two seats at the bar and had a lovely conversation with a lovely 87-year-old gentleman who lives on the island.  It was a pleasant evening, and we were enjoying a much-needed change of scenery. 

Just as we were leaving, I snapped this photo of my Amaryllis starting to bloom again. It has been dormant for several weeks, so I was happy to see these blooms, which felt like a promise of Spring.

I hope you have a blessed week. 

Friday, February 20th – 6 Month Post Surgery Doctor Visit

Hey friends, we are back from the beach after a fun trip.  We did lots of thrifting, and I found some great deals. I’ll be sharing them on Dirt Road Adventures on Sunday.  

Today, I wanted to update my journal with the latest medical news.  My appointment with Dr. Tucker turned out to be a telephone visit, which allowed me to ask my questions.  

1. One of the most pressing questions I had was about the CA-125 still being high but coming down.  
   • Dr. Tucker said that, given the fact that something showed up on my last scan and the CA-125 is still high, she does not think I’m cancer-free.  That’s why it’s so important that I stay on the current course of treatments.  She said that since the CA-125 numbers are dropping each time I’ve been tested, is a VERY Good sign that the treatments are working.  

• 2. I also wanted to know how much of my large intestine had been removed.
  • There were two sections removed, both on my left side.  One was 10 inches, and the other was 5 inches.A total of 15 inches was removed, and it was a good reason for my bowel issues.  Shesaid with that amount of removal in combination with the major surgery I underwent, a 6-12 month recovery would be normal.  She feels I’ll still see improvement.
  • I’m also experiencing some abdominal pain on the right side.  She feels it’s more related to the surgery itself than the colon resections, which were on the left side.  Possibly scar tissue or inflammation.  

• 3. The last question was concerning the roller coaster ride I’ve been on with possible liver damage. I’ll not go into all the details, as I’ve shared them as they happened, but the bottom line is one minute they thought I had liver damage, and then maybe not, and then oh, it still doesn’t look good.  
  • Dr. Tucker said the distortions in the scans most likely resulted from the diaphragm pressing on the liver, causing it to become misshapen.  Now that things have settled down, based on the MRI and the last CT scan, she feels there is no damage to the liver, and we can put the possibility of liver damage to rest.

I’ll see her again in 4 months and will have my next CT scan in April after my next two infusions.  

Sunday, March 1, – March 7, 2026

Hey friends, sorry I’ve been absent from my journal this past week.  I’ve had a busy week and have been processing the news that I’m most likely not cancer-free.  I’ve also been analysing my habits, or lack thereof. 

When I was first diagnosed, I was determined to remain as healthy as possible, and I followed all the recommendations of the doctors.  

• I was drinking my 64 liters of water without fail. 
• Walking 3 miles a day. 
• Eating healthy, eliminating wine from my diet.  
• My attention was undivided, and I faithfully turned to God with my fears and worries.  

Then I started treatments, and I was still determined to follow the above recommendations even when it was hard.  I was in constant prayer with God for the strength to get through this ordeal.  My faith was strengthened, and my belief was unwavering.  

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Next, I had surgery, which really did a number on my physical and mental health.  Not only did my physical body feel broken, but I reached a point where I had to release all the control and turn my healing over to God.  I have never felt so helpless, but once I allowed myself to turn it over to him, I began to heal and find peace.  

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The struggle was not over, and there were many more months of treatment and healing.  

I was once again focused on God, my diet, and exercise to get back to a healthy mind and body.  Many prayers were answered.

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It has been 6 months since my surgery, and I am thankful some of those dark moments have faded in intensity.  

As life began to return to a new normal, I became busy with normal everyday endeavors.  

I began to rely less on God’s word, I let the miserable winter weather keep me from walking, and I even stopped counting my water intake.  (I want to note that the water intake is especially important with the medications I’m taking.)

I was getting angry at myself, and each day I’d say I’ve got to get back on track.  But the day would slip away, and I’d be in bed at night promising myself I’d do better tomorrow.  

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This week at my bible study, the situation became clear to me.  

I had allowed myself to settle into the feeling that I was in a not-so-desperate situation.  I allowed getting back to normal to undermine my spiritual growth and my physical healing.

As I thought about my doctor’s message, “I don’t think you are cancer-free!”  I realized my journey was not over, but I’d allowed myself pull away from all my determination and slip away from God.  

Has this ever happened to you?  When things are tough, we seek God, but when they are going well, we fail to recognize that he is rewarding us.  

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It was a wake-up call to get back to praising God for all he has done for me over these last almost 10 months.  To keep my focus on who truly is in control.  To refocus on my physical health, exercise more, drink more water, and continue to eat healthily.  I’ve dedicated myself to getting back on track, and I’m praying daily for God’s help in doing so.

We are studying Lamations, and one thing I learned is that, regardless of how far we slip away from God’s word, there is hope. If we repent and ask God to help us stay focused and not become distracted, He will answer. 

Saturday, March 7th

Well, it’s been a roller coaster week. We’ve gone from cold to hot, from running the heat to running the air conditioner, and from good blood work to disappointing CA-125 results.

First, I’ve been experiencing some side effects from the Zejula medication. My mouth has been irritated all week. I’ve had to be careful not to eat anything that makes it worse. It’s beginning to get better after rinsing my mouth with salt water several times a day. Dr. Gorsuch said this was a normal side effect, and if it worsens, she can prescribe medication. I hope it heals on its own. I went through the harsh chemo treatments without any issues, so I wasn’t expecting this.

I had my 3rd infusion yesterday, and all my blood work looked good at that point. My hemoglobin is up to 11.8. I was surprised to learn that I’ll be having my next CT scan just before my next infusion. I was originally told it would be done again in April. I was feeling pretty good about everything, and then I received the CA-125 results. And although I know they are not always reliable, I was very disappointed to see that it was 136. At my last treatment, it was 122. I had hoped it would drop instead of increase.

I’m going to try not to let it worry me. I know God will get me through this! Instead of worrying, I’m focused on building my strength and continuing to heal.

Monday, March 9th

So I’m up early after a restless night. I’m letting my imagination run away after receiving the CA-125 blood work results. I’m fearful that the treatments are not working. I’ve sent a message to Dr. Gorsuch to see if this type of fluctuation is normal or if I should be concerned. Sorry to unload on here this morning, but it helps to write about my feelings. Although I know that God is watching over me and my treatments, during these dark moments, the fear overwhelms me.

I’ll update as soon as I hear back from the doctor.

UPDATE: Dr. Gorsuch responded and said the CA-125 is just a tool they use, and the numbers are not static and fluctuate for numerous reasons. We rely on the CT-scan for a more accurate understanding of what’s going on in my body. I have my scan scheduled for March 18th, so we are praying for positive results that day.

Thank you for allowing me to vent, and as always, thank you for your prayers!

Tuesday, March 17th

Hey Friends, Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

After my last update, we decided to get away to the beach. We went to our cottage for a couple of days, and there we spent time with our neighbors, shopping and eating at our favorite restaurants. Then we traveled to North Myrtle Beach for a weekend we had previously planned at our friends’ house. Several of our friends joined us, and it felt like old times. I was reminded of the healing power of friendship.

Getting away from home was a blessing in itself. Although I’m staying busy with the blog and projects at home, there’s still too much time to dwell on the what-ifs.

I was able to relax and, for a moment, forget my worries. We laughed and reminisced about all the special fun times we’ve had over the past 30+ years!

Some big news is I’ve ditched the wig and my hats! My hair is less than an inch long, but I decided to “not care” and go for it. The response was mostly positive, and I’ll share a distant photo. I’m wearing a St. Patrick’s Day headband, which makes it look a little better. Up close is still a little scary to me (LOL). I had one person tell me how much she liked my haircut, and she didn’t realize I hadn’t cut it. LOL. All we did was trim around the ears and my neckline, but otherwise, it’s just how it has grown back.

We lost a dear friend to pancreatic cancer last week while we were gone. It was very sudden and a surprise. We are heartbroken. It’s a reminder to live each day to the fullest because we are not promised a tomorrow.

I appreciate all the messages of encouragement from my last update. Your positive input means so much to me. I have my CT scan tomorrow, and I’m praying for good results! Hopefully, my fears will be put to rest. Thank you for all the prayers. God bless each one of you!

“…his compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23

Saturday, March 21

Just a quick update. I’ve had several people ask about my CT scan on Wednesday. I don’t have the results and will not see the Dr. until next Friday. The results may show up on MyChart, but I’ve decided not to try to read them. I’m going to wait until the doctor explains the results. I appreciate all the messages and encouragement I’ve been receiving.

It’s been a hard week with two funerals and another coming up next week. It makes you appreciate each day the lord gives us.

On a brighter note, we had fun at Sawyer’s, our great-nephew’s first birthday party. He preferred a cupcake to his big cake. He’s such a cutie!

I recently saw this quote. I don’t know who to credit, but I thought it was beautiful.

Friday, March 27, 2026

Hey friends, I’m praising God today for all the answered prayers. I had the most encouraging doctor’s visit since this whole nightmare started 11 months ago. First, my CT scan looked good. Not perfect, but showed no signs of disease progression, and the main spot of concern on my December scan was GONE! Another small spot appears to be the same, and it could be nothing. I still have fluid in my right lung, but it has reduced by 50% since December. She feels it will continue to reduce as I heal and with my infusions. Yeah!

Remember my concern over the CA-125 blood work increasing instead of decreasing 3 weeks ago. She explained to us today that until the fluid is gone from my lungs, my CA-125 will not be normal. It felt like a huge weight was lifted from my chest. She said the CA-125 picks up inflammation in the abdomen and lungs, so many factors can cause it to be high that are not cancer-related.

All my blood work was perfect today, and I’m feeling so encouraged and blessed.

I’m still having some bowel issues due to the colon resections, and she was able to give me some tips that I feel may help. (I’ll not go into detail! LOL)

So it was a very encouraging day for me. Brad and I both have been weepy with joy! He said it was better than Christmas!

Unfortunately, my brother didn’t have a good day. He was scheduled for surgery this morning, but didn’t get to have it because he went into atrial fibrillation after being put to sleep. He has been waiting several months, with one issue or another stopping him from proceeding with the surgery, and now this! I know he is so disappointed. Have not heard if they kept him at the hospital or sent him home. Please include him in your prayers.

As always, thank you for your prayers, encouragement, and uplifting comments. Here is a recent message I received. Thank you, Katy!

God, I ask You to prepare my heart and life for Your timing. Help me trust that You are making all things ready in Your way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Scripture reference for prayer:
Psalm 27:14 (NKJV) “Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart;
Wait, I say, on the Lord!”

Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Hey friends, I just wanted to share some quick thoughts today. I still have restless nights, and although the worries about my cancer have been somewhat lifted, I find myself worrying about other things going on around me. I awoke this morning to my daily scriptures and realized I’m still being distracted by outside worries I have no control over, and I’m sure this has happened to you before. So I wanted to share the scriptures with you because, as I read them, a new sense of peace and contentment filled me.

“Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you”. 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 KJV

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

I’m praying today for constant communion with God in all things that I do, and I know he will lift the worries from my heart. I’m praying for my brother’s health so that he may have the surgery needed, and another dear friend who had surgery on her broken femur a few days ago. Plus, all the many names on my list who are suffering from cancer and other life-threatening issues.

I’ve received so many messages of praise to God since my last post! Almost everyone said “God is Good”! Thank you!

Easter Weekend, Saturday, April 4, 2026

Happy Easter, friends. We are spending our Easter Weekend at our beach cottage and enjoying beautiful Spring weather. I awoke early this morning with some heavy thoughts running through my mind.  So I decided to share them. You see, it was Easter weekend last year when I began to worry that something was wrong with me. I was having abdominal pains that wouldn’t go away. Actually, pain might be too strong an adjective. It was more a discomfort. I didn’t feel an urgent need to get to the doctor. I felt as though I could get relief with a good bowel movement, but the discomfort persisted, and I had thoughts of an infection, maybe. I googled it and considered a UTI, and was drinking cranberry juice. But by Easter Sunday, I told Brad I was going to make a doctor’s appointment. We were at the beach on Easter weekend. So I called on Tuesday to schedule an appointment for Thursday. I’m so thankful my doctor didn’t hesitate and immediately scheduled a CT scan for the next day. By Friday afternoon, I was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer. Never would I have thought it was so bad.

The heavy thought that my restless mind was having this morning was whether there were signs before that I ignored. Did I have discomfort that eased or went away prior to Easter weekend? Could I have caught this earlier and avoided such a horrific and invasive surgery? What did I miss or ignore? To be honest, I don’t know!!!

Abdominal pain is tricky because we all experience it. We can easily explain it away as dietary or a lack of exercise. We all have gas, constipation, and diarrhea at times for no reason. As women, we bloat, and our stomachs feel tight, we have cramps, and so on and so on. So when we feel discomfort, we assume it’s nothing out of the ordinary.

So were there symptoms before Easter weekend? Probably, but most likely I wrote them off as one of the above issues.

As I lay in bed, I couldn’t sleep because my stomach was rumbling and I felt an urge to go to the bathroom. This has been a common occurrence since my surgery, but I was also feeling pain in my side. I just had a CT scan two weeks ago, so I know it’s probably due to constipation or gas, but that wasn’t what was keeping me awake. It was the thought of whether I could have caught this cancer earlier. At my first visit with Dr. Tucker, she said it was rare for someone to be diagnosed with Ovarian cancer prior to stage 3 or 4. She was trying to reassure me that I had not ignored my body’s warnings. She said the symptoms are so minor in the early stages that they can be easily dismissed. In addition, everyone has different symptoms. In talking with other ovarian cancer patients, some were bloated, but didn’t have any pain.

I’m writing this long story because I want you to be aware of what I experienced and to share it with your family and friends. Don’t ignore your body’s signals that something is wrong. I’ve said a million times, I’m so thankful that my symptoms didn’t go away last Easter. What I don’t know and what haunts me is whether I had previous symptoms that did go away, so I ignored them. Could I have caught this earlier???

One last thought! If you are concerned, don’t hesitate to schedule a doctor’s appointment. The doctor may pass it off as digestive as well. I’ve heard the horror stories of going to doctors for over a year before someone finally scheduled a scan to finally find STAGE 4 cancer. Again, I’m so thankful that my doctor didn’t hesitate.

I’ve been praying for God to show me my purpose in all this. Why have I been chosen to suffer this illness? By sharing my journal with others, I feel I may be shining a light on this horrific disease, and if I can help even one person who reads it, maybe that’s my purpose. This journey has opened my eyes and heart to God’s mercy, and I know that as I search for my purpose, he will guide me.

Okay, I’m off my soapbox for today. I pray you have a blessed Easter. Rejoice and praise God in all you do!

John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 – UPDATE – Includes List Cancer Drugs I’ve Been Given

Hey friends, did you think I’d forgotten you? Things have slowed down, or maybe a better term would be settled into a new normal, with my ongoing cancer treatments. The month has flown by with our Easter break, and Brad and I both came home with sinus issues. We both thought we were better when we both went to urgent care yesterday. Brad was x-rayed because they thought he might have phemona, and I absolutely have a sinus infection. We are both on antibiotics, and he’s on a steroid. Neither of us has been sick since my cancer diagnosis. We faithfully followed Dr.’s orders and avoided high-risk situations. But as I was lying in bed with the heating pad around my head instead of my abdomen, I realized that being sick sucks, anyway you look at it. No, it’s nothing, the chemo treatments and post-surgery healing, but anything that puts you in bed for most of the day and keeps you awake at night is no fun.

As I lay awake, I was thinking about some of the articles I recently read in a magazine for women affected by cancer. Katherine Jones reached out to me after reading my journal and mailed me some copies of Brighter Magazine from Dallas, Texas. I am thankful to Katherine, and I’m sharing the extra copies she mailed. It has great information on the importance of protein during and after chemo, wig selection, and so much more. I learned things I wish I’d known earlier during my treatment, such as “don’t try to eat your favorite food during chemo”, you may never like them again. This is true of Salmon for me. I can tolerate it now, but it used to be my favorite seafood.

Another quote from the magazine I’d like to share is: “Cancer is not who you are, and it doesn’t get to steal your joy. It may always be there, but it’s not the center of attention, you are!” Since I can’t send the magazine to everyone who benefits from the articles, I will continue to add quotes and information I feel will be helpful.

I’m praying that my sinus infection will not delay my infusion on Friday. I’ve had no fever, and hopefully the antibiotics will kick in. Thank you for continuing to follow along, and please update me with any prayer requests as I continue to pray daily for those I receive.

1 Peter 5:10 (NIV): “And the God of all grace… after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.”

In addition, I’ve been asked so many times what drugs I’ve been given for Chemo and inhibitors so I thought I’d list them all here for a quick reference. It’s almost impossible for even myself to go back into the journal and find the names.

• PACLitaxel (TAXOL) -Chemo
• CARBOplatin (PARAPLATIN) – Chemo
• Zejula Niraparib – for two years – PARP Inhibitor – PARP inhibitors work to stop PARP from repairing cancer cells. Blocking PARP may lead to cancer cell death and slow the return or progression of cancer. 
• Bevacizumab Infusions – every three weeks for two years – effective in starving tumors of blood supply

Stay tuned, and I’ll continue to provide updates on progress.