First, part of the reason for my lack of blogging is that I went back to work and I just don't feel like I have enough time when I get home and I am a little tired by then anyway. I went back to work full-time; I started with a trip to Detroit (Kurt joined me) the week of April 30th. I had two classes to finish my human resource specialist certification through Michigan School Business Officials so I went to Detroit to take those classes and got my certification! Considering all that has happened in this past year, I was very excited to finish the certification process up and know that I did it! There was a few trips last year that I went on where I wasn't feeling well (probably know the reasons now) and then there was the fact that I didn't know if I would be here to finish up. I'm grateful my employer allowed me to finish! I've been back in the office the last two weeks (well, almost two weeks now) and it is so nice to be back, getting reacquainted with my job again, feeling some bit of normal and enjoying being around my amazingly awesome co-workers! This week was a true "test" for me as it is a chemo week... while I am tired, I think it has gone relatively well.
As I said, I have lots of little things to talk about too:
- Kurt and I were able to enjoy some Tiger games while we were in Detroit for my classes. One rain out, one win and one loss! So, we have some tickets to a game in September since it was rained out!
- On May 10th, it was one year to the date that I was diagnosed with my brain tumors; the next few days were full of tests, tests and more tests. (Oh, and for those who came to visit in the hospital, of course, talking about my stinky pit.)
- On May 12th, my family, my mom, my nieces and nephew, my Auntie Kris, Kurt's (and mine too) Auntie Lois and cousin Shanon walked in the Hope Starts Here Brain Tumor Challenge at the Lower Harbor. As we were walking, I realized that one year earlier to the date, I was having my first craniotomy. Now this challenge is put on in part by the neurosurgeon who did my craniotomies. Because of his expertise and precision during my craniotomies, I am able to function, speak, etc. I am very lucky - and it is in large part due to him!
- Having to wear scarves as I am back to work is one of my least favorite things lately; I've been wearing my hats once and awhile too!
- My next PET scan will take place in June; my next MRI will take place in July!
I also mentioned to my oncologist that I am having some spurratic problems with hip pain when I get up from sitting on hard surfaces, such as a wooden chair, etc. It feels like my hip is out of joint. She sent me for an x-ray and to see an orthopedic doctor (whom I'd already seen a couple of years ago for hip pain). I saw the orthopedic doctor on Tuesday and from my x-ray, he indicated that there is something "wrong" with my lesser trochanter. When I was originally diagnosed last year, they told me that I had a stress fracture on that hip; then my PET scan came back and I was sent for an MRI which confirmed cancer in that area. I've had radiation and further PET scans show that the area is healing. This new finding and because of my history (and the local orthopedic doctor), I am going to be sent to see an orthopedic oncologist who specializes in this area. Of course, there is not anyone locally that can do this so we are trying to get word from the orthopedic doctor and my oncologist on who they'd suggest I see - it looks like we will make another trip to either Detroit or Mayo Clinic. (Still working on details of all of this....more will be posted once I know what is going on. If anyone knows of a really good orthopedic oncologist in either of these areas, please let us know!)
It's hard to believe that a year has gone by, yet I feel like we have been through hell and back in many ways! My family has had a tremendous amount of stressors during this last year (my brother getting divorced and my being diagnosed with cancer to name just a few). I can honestly say that I have learned MANY lessons about life... try not to stress about the small stuff (because that is just what it is), be thankful for the blessings in your life (family, friends, love, faith, believing) and don't take things for granted because in a moment, things can change!
I'm VERY greatful for all of the wonderful people in my life! I've had so many people thinking and praying for not only me but my husband, kids, parents, inlaws, etc. I'm greatful that I have gotten to make wonderful memories with my children - such as our trip to Florida, etc. I've gotten to spend alot of time with my husband while we were home together and the kids were in school. I've been able to spend more time with my brother and his kids - it's wonderful to have a close relationship again with my brother and to be a bigger part of my nieces and nephew's lives! Of course, it goes without saying - I am most GREATFUL for my wonderful family and friends! I know I can't always be the easiest person to be around but I am forever thankful for you sticking by me and keeping my spirits up. Without you, I don't know how I would have made it through this past year! Most importantly - I continue to believe!
(And Kurt :), while I know that it isn't always easy, thank you for being a wonderful nurse/caregiver, channel-changer, chaffeur, constant worrier, head rubbing/kisser, protector and most of all... the love of my life!)
