God is AMAZNG!!!

The ups and downs in life….one day we’re all happy and healthy and the next – heartbreak.

On May 25, 2007 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Then on May 29, 2007 I had the PET/CT scan to see if the cancer had spread. The results came back immediately indicating it had. I have Stage IV Breast Cancer - Breast Metastasis – which means, it has traveled to other organs, 5 spots in my liver and 1 spot on my 3rd spinal bone. I started chemotherapy treatments right away.

When it rains it pours – on July 18th I went to see the doctor because I was having horrible sinus problems and migraines. So he sent me over to Mercy Hospital for a MRI of my head. I learned I have massive nasal sinus disease, as well 2 more spots of breast cancer on my brain (cerebellum). Talk about another kick in the shin. I was devastated.

I just kept praying to God and asking him to give me strength and hope. And He spoke to me. On Monday, July 30th I had my second PET/CT scan to see how my chemotherapy had been working. My scan revealed the intensity of my breast has dropped significantly (about 50%) and the 5 spots in my liver are “barely visible” anymore and the one spot in my bone on my spine, there is no evidence it was there! So excellent news!!! I was so excited and tears of joy were streaming down my face!

Chemotherapy will not treat tumors on your brain, so on August 14th I had the targeted radiation treatment done at the University of Iowa Hospital. We were there all day and they did 32 different radiation treatments on me, but I am now done with that! The success rate of that type of treatment is 80% so I am feeling very good and confident. I will go back to them in 3 months to have another MRI to make sure everything is okay.

But I’ll tell you, over the past 4 months my emotions have been running. I am so glad I have the strength of the Lord with me. Along with many others – family, friends, co-workers, church members, neighbors and even strangers! I feel as though I’ve been given another chance. I asked God directly for my 4th miracle and I know he has blessed me with it. I still have a long way ahead and will be on some form of treatment for the rest of my life, but I am living the life and I am loving the life!

Thank you to everyone for your support and continued prayers for our family.