This is my new mantra...every day is a blessing! Because although I have always tried to be a positive person, those five words have an entirely new meaning to me now. Every day that I get to look into those stunning blue eyes of Mikes, every day I get to fall asleep beside him & wake up next to him, every day that I get to hear my mom tell me she loves me, and every day that I get through (whether good, or bad), is a total and complete blessing. Before I get into the latest update, let me say THANK YOU!!! You guys are AH-MAZING! I am so happy that I started this blog because it means the world to me to read your messages. I feel the love and support pouring through and it makes me smile so big and I love you guys so much. Mike and I are so blessed to have so many people love and care about us and it really means more to me than you will ever know. So keep it comin' :) I want to also say that I am going to be completely truthful on this blog. It makes me feel better to get it all out there, whether it's good or bad. So buckle up kids because I think it's going to be a pretty long and bumpy ride. So, Thursday was a long day spent at the hospital & really just involved a lot of talking and getting familiar with how this whole process is going to work. We met with my surgeon, Dr. B and she explained the initial biopsy results. Although we don't know a lot yet, I'll be honest when I say that it wasn't encouraging. She said that I have Invasive Lobular Breast Cancer - I would provide a link about this but I have made an official promise to myself that I WILL NOT be searching anything on the internet. It will only freak me out and I would rather just focus on what my doctors are telling me. Anyways, this form of cancer makes up about 10% of all breast cancers and it is more common in younger women. Dr. B said it is "very sneaky and very hard to detect". My heart sank when she said she suspects it was there the entire time when I had an ultrasound and mammogram in January 2010. That was a tough pill to swallow. The biopsy tissue is rated on a scale of grade 1, 2 or 3 from least to most aggressive. This is different than actual staging of the cancer. My cancer has been rated a 3. This lobular form of cancer, and the fact that I am so young, tends to mean this thing is going to be aggressive. I am not going to lie - it is scary. But, we will just be aggressive right back...and I am pretty sure you all know that I have no problem being aggressive:) Apparently, this cancer doesn't realize that I am a red-headed, Irish, Aries with a fiesty and stubborn spirit and I don't back down easily! We also discussed many things such as where I should be treated...Beaumont, Karmanos, Henry Ford, U of M...so many choices and so many opinions- it can get overwhelming. The great thing is that my surgeon at Beaumont used to work at Karmanos up until 2 years ago so she has a lot of great insight. We really like her and feel comfortable with her so we have decided to stay at Beaumont's Breast Care Center with Dr. B and then my oncologist will be Dr. F from Karmanos. We have heard from numerous people that, "he is the best!" So that is very encouraging. The bad news was that he is booked solid and couldn't get me in until April 28. ugh! Heart sank again. I don't have time to wait that long. Well, my surgeon and the man upstairs pulled some strings and Dr. F is now going to squeeze me in on April 1, which is next Friday. Dr. B and Dr. F used to both work together at Karmanos and they both respect each other very much and continue to work very well together, so we feel like they will be a great team! Other members of my team are Nurse Linda- she is awesome and my mom loves her already - which says a lot since my mom has been a nurse for over 30+ years - she is a good judge of a great nurse! Heather is the nurse practitioner I first saw that referred me to get the ultrasound - she is young like me and super sweet and helpful. They have all given me their direct phone #'s and are always willing to talk and answer questions. I feel very comfortable in their hands. The rest of the day consisted with meeting with the genetic counselors. For those of you that don't know, the cancer history on my father's side of the family is nothing short of frightening. Out of 10 children, 6 have had cancer - and all but one has had more than one bout with it. This has always been a red flag for my doctors-even before this diagnosis. So, the genetics people wanted to go over every little detail of each family member all the way back to grand parents and their siblings. To say it was exhausting and terrifying to see it all on paper is an understatement. They took 5 vials of blood and will be completing tests to see if my breast cancer is the genetic form. This is important because not only is this information vital for my other family members, but it also impacts what my treatment might look like. If I have the genetic form (which I am guessing it is), there will be a 60% chance I will eventually get breast cancer on the left side. The likely course of treatment that I have decided upon if it's the genetic form, is a double mastectomy. Get rid of everything and get me as healthy as possible, for as long as possible! I am not worried about how I will look or if I have hair...I don't care about any of it. I just want to beat this and LIVE! This morning I had a CT scan of my chest, abdomen, and pelvis to see if this crap has spread to any of these places. If you are going to say any prayers, please direct them to this CT scan and pray that it shows NOTHING! I am so nervous about this test and I am praying so hard that this cancer has not invaded anywhere else. I should probably get the results Monday afternoon at the earliest. Monday morning I have an MRI of both breasts to see what else is going on in there, and I also have a biopsy of my right axillary (arm pit) lymph nodes. They are pretty sure the cancer has spread there already but let's hope it has stopped there. Then next Friday, I meet with Dr. F (oncologist @ Karmanos) for the first time and at that point we will have all the test results and can start figuring out a game plan. I will definitely have surgery, and definitely have chemo. Not sure which order or when but we all think things are going to be moving pretty fast from here on out. Who knows how much time we have already lost. I am looking forward to a fun weekend with friends and going to a photography workshop on Sunday called, "Babies, Babies, Babies" where we learn how to photograph newborns:) I am sure it will be the perfect distraction. I plan on heading back to work Tues, Wed, and Thursday and Mike is planning the same. Thank God we both have such supportive work environments that are making this as easy for us as possible. Well, I think that covers it for now! Sorry for being so long winded here but I really just want to get it all out there so everyone has all the details. Thank you again for all of your love, support and prayers. Keep us smiling and laughing - it really does help! xoxo, Meg A few things that made me smile today: my adorable pup who is cuddling more than ever - I swear, he knows his Momma is sick. And my tulips, they are coming up strong! love it and can't wait to get out in my garden soon! I bought this little pillow in a cute boutique while we were just visiting Seattle. "Life is Good...Enjoy the Little Things"
48 Comments
3/25/2011 02:33:17 pm
Megs & Mikey-B-B
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Julie
3/26/2011 01:34:30 am
Your positivity and strength is going to get you through this. You are such an inspiration to all of us Meg.
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nanc
3/26/2011 01:41:07 am
Love the pillow. Words for us all to live by. Enjoy those babies and if you have some business cards, I'll pass them around at work:)xoxo
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Aunt Erin
3/26/2011 02:30:29 am
Laughter through tears is a wonderful thing. My feisty little redheaded irish girl, you make me laugh with your humor and wit, and cry with pride, you are so brave. xo
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Laura Martin
3/26/2011 02:46:22 am
Sean and I are sending positive thoughts your way from California. I'll be checking the blog frequently and will be thinking of you every day. XOXO
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Angela Ferensic
3/26/2011 03:53:21 am
Meg, the moment I first met you, your strength, positivity and love were overwhelmingly noticeable. I am so blessed to have met you, and I am grateful you are strong enough to share this journey with us.
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Katie Ceci
3/26/2011 03:58:56 am
Glad to hear you have found a great team to help you kick cancers booty. Thinking about you and sending all positive energy to your monday test results. Buy some popsicles-they always make me happy!
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Sara
3/26/2011 05:15:57 am
Meg ~ Today you were my inspiration for yoga and I practiced for you! You're on my mind & your strength is lifting us all up!
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Liz Morris
3/26/2011 05:26:42 am
Meghan, thank you so much for sharing these details. I know to direct all my prayers to the CT scan you had yesterday. My kids are great prayers so they are enlisted, too! Cousin Liz
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Meagan Doyle
3/26/2011 05:36:44 am
I enjoy the pictures Meg...it was great to see your beautiful and smiling face this morning... The sun is shining for you and your spirit today...and will be for a long long time! I love you...we will talk soon. XOXO
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Kara Carravallah
3/26/2011 06:33:21 am
love the pillow!! So cute!!! Thank you so much for the chat... I know it's selfish, but I feel better now that I've talked to you... Keep up the good work on the blog!!! And don't worry, no one will forget. Love you girl!
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Julie Payne
3/26/2011 06:58:13 am
Meg, Thank you for the update, you are so STRONG! I'm contacting every prayer group and praying person I know and together we are going to bombard God with prayers for clear CAT scan results! I have all the faith in the world that He is gonna hear us and help you beat this! Sending love and hugs your way. Love you!
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Kyle
3/26/2011 07:11:00 am
Taking these photos is going to be so therapeutic for you Meg (and for me!)...I feel a book in your future :). Your strength and optimism is incredible and inspiring, keep it up girl! LOVE YOU!!!
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Michelle V.
3/26/2011 07:23:50 am
Hi Meghan, I am very impressed with the war you have already staged against the cancer. Thank you for sharing your story so that we can pray for you and support you in any way that we can. You have a great team both personally and medically and that is a huge relief. May you feel comfort knowing that others are thinking of you and praying for you on a daily basis.
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Gina Vanderhoff
3/26/2011 07:32:41 am
The SUN is beautiful today and so are you! Sending prayers and love your way today! Love You~ xoxoxo
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uncle_kevin
3/26/2011 08:07:28 am
Meg
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Sven
3/26/2011 09:34:40 am
Thinking of you and I love you to pieces!!! You are MAGNIFICENT and I am in awe of your strength! XOXOXO
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Aunt Carol
3/26/2011 09:56:38 am
You are a special gift to all of us Meghan!
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Wrig
3/26/2011 10:04:10 am
Don't forget I am always waiting for you to get home so I can lick your face and keep you warm!!!
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YAYA
3/26/2011 12:39:56 pm
TRIANGLE! This has shaken my heart out of a blase, nose-to-the-ground routine. I am fiercely ready to fight with you, my friend. Praying-- Hard.
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Becca Jose
3/26/2011 01:48:44 pm
Meg
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Courtney Doman
3/26/2011 01:53:02 pm
Meghan,
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Kathleen Bungart
3/26/2011 03:02:02 pm
Dear Meghan and Mike,
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Kathleen Bungart
3/26/2011 03:13:30 pm
P.S.
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Hayley and J.D.
3/26/2011 03:37:02 pm
Meghan,
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Diana Mikrut
3/26/2011 03:54:41 pm
Thank you so much for this blog and for sharing your story with us so that we have an opportunity to share our love and support with you! You're facing this with the feistiness, strength, wit and humor that exemplifies your personality. You're an amazing and strong person and I know you'll beat this! Cancer don't stand a chance against a red-headed Irish chick. Love you Megs!
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Joe & Jen
3/26/2011 05:02:36 pm
Meghan - Just wanted you to know that that Jen and I are thinking about you and we are confident that you will show this pest who is boss. You're a tough cookie Meghan, and we know you will fight the good fight! Love you lots!
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Erica
3/27/2011 01:53:23 am
Meg-this blog is incredible. You're an inspiration to all of us. I'm really proud of you and Mike for taking this by the horns and focusing on moving forward. Love you lots and let me know if there's anything you guys need! xoxoxoxoxo
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katie Sheridan
3/27/2011 01:59:57 am
After seeing your smiling face and experiencing your positive energy and inspirational courage...there is NO doubt in my mind that YOU WILL BEAT THIS!!
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Chelsea Dunlop
3/27/2011 02:14:25 am
Sending sunshine, love, hope and inspiration from Chi. I am ALWAYS here for you. Love you. ~Chelki
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Cousin Shannon
3/27/2011 04:46:26 am
Meghan,
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3/27/2011 05:53:21 am
Hi Meghan,
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kelley lipski
3/27/2011 06:23:53 am
I hope you can squeeze me in over Easter so I can give you a giant hug and tell you how much I love you. I am so happy you're sharing everything in your blog- I have been checking it every day, and thinking about you all the time. I know this is scary, but this thing doesn't stand a chance. You're my hero, I love you.
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Nichole
3/27/2011 07:24:26 am
So, you are pretty much the strongest, most amazing person ever! You have been on my mind all the time, I've been sending you positive, healing vibes like crazy, and praying to the God that WILL provide everything you need to get thru this. You were picked for this challenge because maybe someone less strong wouldn't be able to succeed- clearly you WILL succeed, and along the way you'll inspire us all! I'll be there every step for anything you need, including a good tooth brush once in a while:) love you!
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Marty Hart
3/27/2011 10:47:32 am
Meghan,
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D'Ane Armaly
3/27/2011 11:28:28 am
Meghan,
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Diane Patzer
3/27/2011 01:26:26 pm
Dearest Meg...
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Gina Vanderhoff
3/27/2011 01:41:02 pm
Blessings for Monday~ We all will be with you! Love to you! xoxoxo
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Brinley
3/27/2011 02:16:57 pm
Meg, this blog makes it feel like you're here with me...thank you so much for your updates, our countless texts & chats. You're such an inspiration to me & like I've said before "WE" will beat this because you're not alone, not even for a second! We love you and give that little Wriggy a big hug ;) xoxoxo
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Janine Heath
3/27/2011 02:38:57 pm
No one tells it like it is like a 3 year old - Peyton says you should "just punch that cancer in the head!" ... Oh & my mother is known all across downriver as The Church Lady, & she is on the case - Jesus will have no choice but to listen because she is relentless:) ... You are a rock woman!!! Keep fightin & smilin & livin strong. Thinking of you guys & praying for you everyday...
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Nancy Doman
3/27/2011 03:12:03 pm
Meghan,
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Dana Burch
3/27/2011 04:09:42 pm
Dear Meghan,
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Lara Pansolli
3/28/2011 12:31:57 am
Dear Meghan,
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Amanda Bothen Nagele
3/28/2011 07:18:39 am
Hey lady! Your attitude in the face of this disease is so inspiring and I have no doubt what-so-ever that you will not only kick its butt, but that you will be an inspiration to so many. Love you and keeping you in our prayers. Amanda and Nick
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Mary Ferrari
3/29/2011 01:26:51 am
Hey Amazing Meghan,
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Nancy Gould
3/29/2011 07:58:19 am
Hi Meghan.....glad you got through yesterday...your right...the waiting game is the worst...am enjoying your pictures---I love the sound of Meg Malley---I think your going to be famous in the photography world one day..keep your fighting spirit...you have tons of people praying for you.
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Cassie Greenwald
3/29/2011 03:46:46 pm
Hi Meghan and Mike,
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A
3/31/2011 01:34:16 pm
I love your pictures, you have such a talent. I am thinking of you and keeping you in my prayers. If anyone can take cancer on with a great sense of humor, its you! Lots of love!!
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