An Anchor/Scar

First off: Chemo five is complete and BIG thanks to friends that have helped get me through this current hump. During mid-winter break, Jenn Hopkins, Anne Barry and Martha Rogers came by for lunch. Maggie and Paul Maxwell stopped by on Sunday. Karen and Charlie Weaver drove me to my blood work and doctor appointments on Monday. I had an anxiety attack yesterday morning and Marina Abraham hurried over to talk me off the cliff. Susan Kneale was my chemo buddy. We were visited by both a music and art therapist. Susan and I created an impressionist/pointillism painting piece while listening to some James Taylor music…wonderful. Today, Trish Fletcher and Beth Chapp did a ‘Dublin Drop’ and brought me some items I needed from school. Thank you one and all.

Some people, when faced will be trials wander from the faith and their friends. We turn inward, afraid of the world around us. We do something I call, Turtle Time. It’s perfectly okay and quite reasonable. I however, with your encouragement, have turned outward instead. ALL OF YOU have helped me respond to this awful diagnosis and arduous journey. Your actions and love have been selfless, kind, and helpful.

Together we are turning our actions outward and toward one other where welcome is clear and love overflows. I had a caesarean delivery for Sarah over 30 years ago. I’ve called the scar, my smile face because of its large curved shape and Sarah was safely delivered because of it. Now I have an even bigger scar that extends down by abdomen and joins up with my older scare. Therefore, I now have an anchor.

I found a new song written by the band, Skillet, entitled Anchor. You really should check it out for a listen. The repeating lyrics says, “Come steady me, steady me now.”

One of my favorite chapters in the Bible is Hebrews. Ron and I had a verse read at our wedding. Here is Hebrew 6:18-20 (paraphrased) “We have this hope in Jesus as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. We take hold of this anchor before us that we may be greatly encouraged. It enters the inner sanctuary, where Jesus our forerunner has entered on our behalf.” My friends, family, colleagues, supporters, and village - Thank you for your continued prayers. You all are helping me stay steady.

Zero is a Hero

My cell phone rang at 7:48 pm on Wednesday, February 12th. Joanne, Ron and I were finishing up a lovely dinner of sea scallops when we noticed the calling number had many ZEROS. Why would Dr. McLean’s office be calling after hours?

Hurry- answer- press speaker

One of the brilliant fellows who has been part of my treatment and participated in my surgery was on the line. She had marvelous news. She told us she was working late and noticed my pathology reports were completed. Excitedly she told us she had to “ call right away”. I wish you could have heard the delight in her voice. THERE IS NO DETECTIBLE CANCER IN MY BODY! ZERO! Every tissue sample collected- and there were many- came back clear. I began my treatment in October with over ten thousand tumors on my peritoneal wall and omentum. At the time of surgery, the team found loads of scar tissue but ZERO tumors! Now, even the pathology reports prove that I am cancer free. We are reaching the successful endpoint of my treatment- a CURE!

I still need to recover from surgery. I still need three more rounds of aggressive chemotherapy, but the worst is over. Everything is moving according to plan. Ron and I, the kids and our family have all collectively breathed a gigantic sigh of relief.

Together, let’s rejoice in this Good News. My father loved Easter. It’s my favorite time of year as well. The hymns of my youth have filled my heart and mind over the past 48 hours. “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of Creation”.

Please continue to support me with prayers, texts, visits etc.. When we know the dates and times of future appointments Erik will post them for sign up. I will never discount the support of this wonderful village. Together you have kept me optimistic, focused, healthy and supported. Each one of you has played a vital part in this miracle. My love for you is boundless.

No Place Like Home

“A heart is not judged solely by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others”- The Tinman, The Wizard of Oz (Book)

Diane’s sense of gratitude has soared to new and unbelievable heights over the last week. Her gratitude toward the incredible medical team (from Physcians, to RNs, to Techs, to Janitors), and her incredible family and friends is incomprehensible.

Diane is home from the hospital!!! She got home on Sunday and she’s doing great!! Her pain is well managed and she’s moving and shaking all over the house! Joanne arrived yesterday and will stay through the week to help out.

Diane would like to thank all of you for your continued support, love, and prayers. Let’s keep those prayers going that her last 3 chemo treatments go smoothly and for continued good news!