My 2-year Cancerversary

Yes, indeed, this past June was two years since my diagnosis, and if you wanted to be transported back to that beginning, you can do so here.

But such a post cannot begin without the word gratitude. Gratitude for being able to make wonderful memories with my family and friends over the past two years.  But this post cannot be complete without remembering some of those who have shared this journey with me and are not here anymore.

My friend Amy:
Amy was diagnosed with stage 2 triple negative back in November of 2011 and she recently passed away in August. I had last seen Amy in July, and while wan and frail, she was so optimistic and hopeful, the way we all are. I feel very sad to have lost her and to know her family and her young son are without her now. Hugs to you Amy, in the beautiful place you are now.

My friend Karen:
I first met Karen when I had started my chemo treatments. She sat next to me in the infusion chair, and I was very interested in her quilt, since we were always cold during chemo. The ladies in her church had made her a lovely quilt and had put their names on the pieces so she would have them with her during chemo. I was inspired, and short of getting her church ladies to make a quilt for me, I got one that cheered me up. It's the one in the picture above.
Karen was a 10-year survivor who had brain metastasis and passed away in December of last year. I still remember her for her joy. When we talked about her cancer recurring, she said she was ok, she was happy, she had had a blessed 10 years. Sweet Karen, smiling with the angels now.

And me. For the last two years, here is a snapshot of what I've been doing, making memories with my family, going to weddings, visiting home:


Mental health break

Mental Health Break

Playing around and trying new things

Having fun at home

Family vacation

Pumpkin patch fun with boys!

Fishing fun