It has taken a while to share my story. On March 27, 2017 our lives were changed forever when I was diagnosed with Glioblastoma - Stage 4 - most aggressive form of brain cancer. The diagnosis came when I was hospitalized after experiencing numbness in my right leg and arm. After the MRI showed a tumor, a biopsy was completed. This confirmed the type and grade of the tumor as well as that it is inoperable.
In April and May I underwent the standard of care treatment – 6 weeks of radiation and chemotherapy.
My second MRI was completed on June 10, 2017 which did not show any change in the size of the tumor, although my symptoms continue to progress. I will continue to have MRIs every 2 months to track the tumor.
Though there are several treatment options - none have a significant results in outcome against this cancer. So, regardless of treatment - lifespan will still be limited to, on average, around a year. There is no cure.
As a family, we have decided to change from a curative focus to focusing on quality of life. I will continue with care through John Stoddard Cancer Center here in Des Moines, and we have full confidence in my medical team.
I have symptoms that continue to develop and impact daily life. My right side motor skills are impacted, as well as numbness and poor balance in the right side. Another side effect is seizures, which I am now on medication for. I am thankful to have not been in any pain.
We are all adjusting to this "new normal" - Our family is strong. Doug, Carrie and Jeff, Katie and Chris, as well as extended family and dear friends have been phenomenal in their support. Our grand kids continue to add light and life to everything just by being! We are truly blessed. Doug has really stepped up and is adjusting to this new role of caregiving.
I want to express my gratitude for all the prayers, love and support surrounding us! It has been quite humbling and heartwarming to our family! We ask for your continued prayers as this is quite a battle, though we know that it is all in God's very loving hands. Nothing can shake my faith in our dear Lord Jesus Christ and I'm so thankful to be at a point in life where I know that and know how good, faithful and true he is!
Our family keeps LAUGHING, especially Doug and I! We never give up HOPE!
Myself or my girls will continue to keep updates on this site. Please feel free to reach out to me on this site, FB, email or by phone.
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