Roller Coaster

Ever since I found out about the cancer I've had the "normal" roller coaster ride of emotions. Telling Jehnie was really hard and we cried through most of it. But being at church and being prayed for over and over made me cry too but it is such an overwhelming blessing I don't think I can describe it. I continue to have a peace from God that supersedes any emotion I have. I know he's in control and He's going to use it for His glory some how. I believe I'm going to be ok, more than ok... better for it having happened! This past Sunday, Pastor Lance said something that struck a chord with me about the results of our church's Worship Prayer and Healing night. He said when we don't see God move the way we think or hope He would, it's not that He's saying NO. He's saying it's better for you to go through this than if I heal you.(paraphrased) It's really about my spiritual growth and becoming more like Jesus. That is far more important to Him than my physical healing. YIKES!!! That was HUGE to me! It gives me courage and hope and excitement! Let's see what God's gonna do!
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It amazes me how fast things move once a few referrals are made. By the end of the day Monday I have the major parts scheduled. I give specifics here cuz I've got some family that like the details ;) You know who you are ;)

EKG Thursday 10/1
MRI and labs Tuesday 10/6
Surgery and two prep procedures 10/12 I have to be at the hospital at 6 am but the surgery is scheduled for 1 pm!!! YIKES! I really don't like early mornings so pray for me HA!

The surgery is only about 45 min and it's out patient so I'll be home that evening.

I've already worked out carpool and childcare with the moms from school and I think I have my rides all figured out. And my sister is going to be there if my parents need something. God is so good!!!
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When we moved to Texas 13 years ago, God provided a group of women who became my family when my family was so far away. These ladies walked me through becoming a mom, a miscarriage, job loss, seminary, moving twice, another baby, Jim's death, real life stuff. I walked with them as well. That's what family does! I haven't seen them in over three years but that's going to change this weekend. We're having a reunion and the timing couldn't have been more perfect! I'm planning on soaking up love and relaxing for three days in preparation for the crazy journey ahead.

When I think about the people in my life, past and present, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the rich, deep friends God have given me in each season and place. Some have come and gone. But there are a handful who are still around no matter how many miles or years are between us. You know who you are and I love you!!!

Fully Trusting Him,
Karla

The next big thing

Who knew (God did) when I started this blog after Jim died that I'd ever  need it again? I figured this was the easiest way to get all the information out to my friends and family who want to know.
So... I have breast cancer. As far as cancers go... I picked a good one. :) Ductal Carcinoma InSitu (DCIS). It's the kind that is encapsulated in the duct and (as far as they know) CAN'T SPREAD!!!! YAY!!! And after meeting with the surgeon today I found out even more...

Here's what I know:
** can't break through the duct (apparently some can but since they don't know which ones will they treat all with a lumpectomy or mastectomy. my choice) I'm choosing a lumpectomy.

** it 6mm high grade (high grade means more likely to reoccur)

** they will take a sample from the lymph node to as a precaution and combined with the tumor will determine the stage of cancer.

** I will need radiation therapy so I will meet with a Radiation Oncologist to discuss what that looks like.

** I can choose to have a mastectomy but personally I think that's overkill considering the type of     cancer I have. Even though it was tempting to "get a whole new rack" as Suzzanne put it. HA!

** I will be having an MRI so the surgeon can get a clear picture and see exactly what we're dealing with and if it's going in one direction or another. If it's heading into the aereola that will need to be     removed. (that would be a bummer so pray it's not!)

** The surgery itself is outpatient and will only last about 45 min. My downtime will be about 2       weeks.

Things that have to happen before surgery:
MRI
EKG and blood work
ultrasound of the lymph nodes
insert a marker that leaves a wire sticking out (doesn't sound fun but its done the day of surgery)

I am very thankful for:

Mindy and Suzzanne who went with me to the appt and asked questions I hadn't even thought of and made me laugh. Mindy took notes so I wouldn't forget what they said! THEY WERE AWESOME!

My Surgeon (Christian Swanson) is a Christian with a wonderful bedside manner and a good sense of humor!

I have a patient navigator, named Marie, who got me an earlier appt and will guide me through this from the medical side.

I think I've covered everything but if you have a question please ask below.

LOVE YOU ALL!!! TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!!!
Fully Trusting Him,
Karla