Blown Away

I am simply awestruck by the outpouring of encouragement and support received daily recently in the form of prayers, cards, texts, emails, blog & facebook posts, flowers, food, jokes, sweet treats, calls...the list goes on. I have never felt so loved nor have I experienced such kindness and compassion. "Thanks" falls woefully short of accurately conveying the immense gratitude in my heart.

Brain radiation occured last week as scheduled and was largely unremarkable, save being confined to a very Hannibal Lector-type mask for about an hour. The procedure is not for claustrophobes! I finished with a craving for fava beans & a nice chianti, as well as with relief that it should be a one time procedure. Future scans beginning in two months will reveal its effectiveness, but predictions from my radiation oncologist are encouraging. The effect of the brain tumors to my left arm & hands has unfortunately worsened but I am hopeful that function and sensation may be eventually restored so that I may resume important activities such as two-handed typing, talking with my hands and applying make-up while driving.

My trip to MD Anderson for treatment options went well. It was reassuring to present at an actual sarcoma center and to connect with a sea of other patients from around the globe who have also been stricken with this rare cancer. They have accepted me as a patient and, while they were not able to offer a miracle cure, are dedicated to working alongside my amazing team of Indiana doctors with some fresh strategies and treatment options which will hopefully help to manage my cancer, with a much appreciated emphasis on quality of life while I continue to undergo therapy. I will travel to Houston every eight weeks or so for testing and ongoing care.

Prior to my departure to Texas I had to have a chest tube surgically placed through my side due to a pneumothorax (partially collapsed lung) secondary to a hole which formed in my lung from the cancer. As the result, I was restricted from flying so a long road trip to and from Houston ensued, including my amazing father and sweetheart, Kurt, taking turns driving like warriors through the night to get me to my appointment on time. My step-mother, Terri, also stayed up all night, keeping the men awake and alert while also watching for deer alongside the interstates (we saw dozens of them). Thier efforts were valiant and truly tireless. My mother stayed home to care for the boys, managing to seamlessly get them to and from their daily activities in my absence. I am blessed.

Despite the quick trip we found time to try Houston's famous Pappasitos (best Mexican I've ever had) and some real Texas barbeque, from a picnic table with Loretta Lynn crooning in the background and a giant sculpture of an armadillo across the street. Looking forward to continuing to experience the Lone Star State.

I was thrilled to host Kye's end-of-the-year basketball party on Saturday before we left (again, with help from mom and my dear friend Stephanie Edwards) and to return in time to attend Bryce's first basketball tourney game. Also on Saturday came word that Bryce has been accepted at Brebeuf for high school beginning next year! I am beyond proud that God chose me to be mother to these two incredible boys.

 

We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope. And this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts. Romans 5:3-5.

Thank you for bringing joy to my life.

Stephenie