One year plus One Month

Elizabeth was diagnosed Jan 4, 2010. Her tumor was removed on the 5th, she began radiation late January, and when completed went on to chemo. The rounds were three weeks of treatment with three weeks off to recuperate; after a year of chemo she was pronounced done. This means she now needs to rebuild her white cells and build up her immune system; rest up and take on the world. To that end she seems to be in good spirits; she still is uncommitted to what she wants to do with the rest of her life, but true to herself, she won't be pushed by her parents, sister or friends. She will work out what she wants to do and let us know when SHE'S ready.

As a family we have spent more time together this past year than the previous four. That was a blessing for Jim and I. As all parents know when their kids are adults there are times when parents are very low on the priority list. So we were grateful for this opportunity to have so much face-time.

So many in our community have come forward to help Elizabeth. Everyone has been so generous. The truth is we can never payback your kindness, but are ever so grateful for all that everyone has done. As Elizabeth reenters the "real world" again I hope to have her blog just a wee bit, but in the beginning we asked her to do this so everyone would know what was up without repeating the same story over and over. It was not her idea, and you can tell by the lack of posts that she is not really focused on this now. I did want to drop in to catch everyone up on what IS going on with her now.

In closing this post… many will ask what is the outcome? Well, we won't be told any outcome. The doctors won't give us any prognosis. So she has frequent blood draws and they check her blood for any signs of cancer; as long as the tests remain clear the appointments we be spaced further and further apart until they are quarterly. They think that will be the protocol for the rest of her life, as long as the tests come back negative. Your prayers, good wishes and kindness are always welcome. Thank you.