A phrase that was recently used at work was that it was time to "put your big girl panties on." That's how this entire week has felt for me. It was another anxious week as we waited to meet with Dr. Fintel on Wednesday for the results of Brad's bone marrow biopsy (to ensure he was able to withstand the pending radiation), as well as to obtain the results of his PET scan.
Of course Brad's appointment fell on Halloween - it seems that big announcements and test results typically fall around some kind of holiday for us - very strange. The results were exactly what we anticipated, but not what we wanted to hear. The cancer has not entered Brad's bone marrow, however, it has spread throughout his lymphatic system again. He has many enlarged lymph nodes throughout his body, nearly all of which Brad had been unable to directly feel himself.
Brad got a call yesterday from his Radiation Oncologist (Dr. Hess). We have an appointment first thing Monday morning to discuss all the ins and outs, answer questions, talk about safety protocol, etc... of Brad's upcoming treatment. We feel confident Brad will likely have his procedure within the next two weeks, but we'll keep everybody posted.
We have received so much love and support from family, friends, co-workers and our Sunday School class that at times, it has truly taken our breath away. Yesterday, I received the most incredible Facebook message from an amazing person who crossed my path about 18 years ago (OMG...can't believe it's been that long!). While I don't normally share these personal messages, every word she wrote rang true. Here it is...thank you Giovanna for such a loving message:
"I still believe in God. He doesn't always listen or give us exactly what we want, does He? What is His plan? It isn't for us to know, but geez, it sure makes us wonder. The love you two have, you three, is stronger than in most families. Sure, you have a marriage, like lots of people have a marriage, but after going through so much of Brad's cancer stuff, you two have a marriage that is olympic gold medal worthy, probably more so. Your love is so strong and your honesty is so real, maybe at the end of this, Brad will be healthy and you'll go around and talk to others about pulling through adversity. I don't know God's plan... but I am praying for you. It's gotta suck... give them a break, Lord... give them health and love and more tubes of toothpaste! A long life, with those big smiles, and lots of years to use lots of toothpaste! Love you Sandy for your patience, willingness to share, and your heart. xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox, giovanna"
Today, I'm choosing to put my big girl panties on and as soon as we leave Brad's appointment on Monday, we're going to sneak out of town for a couple of days. It's time for a small break so we can return to Roanoke and get ready to once again step into the unknown. Cheers to more toothpaste!
Much love to all,
Sandy
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