Up until now cancer was something that other people had, I never thought it would get to my immediate family. I know that is a bit naive since it seems everyone on the planet is affected one way or another by this horrible disease that comes from who knows what. Is it diet soda, is it pesticides, is it smoking, is it meat….all I know is I don’t know anything about it but I am going to learn very fast whether I want to or not. Cancer commercials were just commercials now they stop me in my tracks.

On Wednesday night my mom called me to tell me the results of a test that she had. When we talked previously we both thought it was nothing then she said “I have breast cancer, I have to go for a biopsy” my body became instantly hot or cold I can’t remember. I wasn’t expecting her to say that. She probably wasn’t expecting the doctor to say that. We talked about who in the family had it, as it turns out quit a few. Both of her aunts and quit possibly her mom if she had lived long enough. Then I had this sinking feeling...what if I get it or worse yet my girls. We will all have to get screened and pay more attention now. I really am concerned about my girls because now it really is in the family.

It was hard to tell the girls. I told Maggie first and then the twins. I waited until Angela came home from college I didn’t want to tell her over the phone. Maggie cried, the twins cried and asked if nana was going to die (that is so heartbreaking to hear) and Angela was upset and concerned that she would get it as well. I have a ton of questions myself. I know my mom has a great attitude about it which is great. In the coming weeks we will learn about this awful disease together and I will be with her every step of the way. Prayers are definitely needed and appreciated.

If you have a story to share please share. If you have any suggestions on what kind of help is best and what is needed the most from a patient perspective please let me know.

Mom, this will be a true test of your faith in God and what a tough cookie you really are. “You got this” and I will be here to help you.

All my love.