Tuesday, August 9, 2011

The Beginning...

My mom has cancer.
Four words I have never wanted to say, think, or imagine. But...
four words that are true.

Friday, August 5th, Steve and I met my mom and my brother at her cancer center. (Wow, how I do NOT like calling that building HER cancer center.) But it is.
We met with her oncologist. (No, I don't like that she has to have her own oncologist either.) But she does.

Our new friend (and believe me, if you have to have an oncologist...you want him to be your very dearest friend and staunchest ally!), shared with us the life-altering news that my mom really and truly does have cancer.

A moment of complete nausea. A brave, yet pointless attempt to keep my eyes dry. Every cell of my being wanting to shake him and make him tell us he was wrong. But I didn't. Because he couldn't.
Because she does.

Now?

We FIGHT!

Mom started chemo today. Her "adventure" she calls it. I call it the journey. Either way...there is a long road ahead and the road map isn't fully drawn. However...we can see the endpoint. And it is complete remission. So however many bumps, detours, or crappy asphalt there is in between now and then...we'll still get there.

How did mom describe her day?
She was basically spoiled rotten: comfy recliner, good book, DVDs, warm snuggly blanket.
No doubt she'll be treated like a queen every time she goes for chemo. And as well she should! Only royalty such as my mom can lay siege to this hideous enemy with the attitude and spirit she has always possessed.

From day one, mom has been ready to get started. She knows what's wrong...now she's ready to fix it. Like she says...I've got things to do!
I've never known anyone or anything to hold my mother down. I pity the cancer that's trying now. Stupid cancer. Don't you know who you're messing with??

This adventure...this journey is just beginning. The first leg is 8 weeks long. Four weeks of being on chemo and each alternating week of being off. The week she is "on", she will go T/W/Th. The week she is "off" will hopefully allow her body time to recoup and regroup.

Tomorrow is Day 2. What will it hold? Guess we'll have to wait and see. But one thing I do know...

We FIGHT!

9 comments:

Karen said...

Dana...I have no words. Just *hug* and prayers for your family.

Dawn, said...

Moms are fighters by nature... clever, brave, stubborn fighters, yep!!! 'Dana's Mom' will now being in my prayers... every one!

Natalie said...

I knew you would do a wonderful job getting this blog together. It will be a great strength to your mom. She is an incredible person. My prayers are with all of you.

Quincy Sorensen said...

You already her best friend; now you will be her best support. My prayers, too, are with you, your mom, and your family.

Jessica M said...

I think this blog is such a wonderful idea. Really really good. We care so much about you and your mom, through reading the "journey" we'll be fighting with you; supporting you all the way and sending our love in every comment.

kg said...

You and your mom are in my thoughts and prayers. What a journey for everyone. Sending my love.

Nancy Law said...

Yep, you're right, your mom can lick this. You're a great daughter Dana, and you have a lovely mom.

Jenni said...

Oh sweetie I am so sorry and will be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Your mom is a fighter - you guys know how to fight as a family and I know you'll rally well. Please let us know if we can help at all!

Sonja said...

Since my comment didn't post before....

There are no good words but know that I am here for you. So, while you are on this "journey" - I'll be that lady on the side of the road cheering you on. )Picture me as the crazy lady, plastic lawn chair in hand, who shows up 2 hours early for the parade to make sure she has the best seats!) :) Love you!

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