Denese Sanders Leonard Denese Sanders

Denese's original story starts below the break with her experiences in 2021, and now in 2023 she's experiencing a recurrence of ovarian cancer. She will be adding to this story through entries in the journal. 

***The break***

Thank you for joining our healing community through Caringbridge. On January 13, 2021 Denese learned from her team of doctors at Stanford Hospital that she likely has epithelial ovarian cancer that has migrated into her peritoneum (abdominal lining). Denese now awaits surgery on the morning of January 28th, where her oncology surgeon will get a closer look through laparoscopy to determine if he can remove all the cancerous cells. If they think they can get it all, Denese will be undergoing major abdominal surgery, including a radical hysterectomy and debulking throughout her abdomen, which requires a recovery period of at least six weeks. Hospitalization for 3-5 days. Due to the pandemic, she will not be allowed visitors. If the doctor decides against operating on the 28th, she will be treated with the first of three rounds of chemotherapy on the 28th.

Our dear Denese is being cared for by everyone in her life who loves her, whether it be in person or from afar, and by an incredible oncology team at Stanford hospital. We invite you to come to this site from time to time for updates on her process, health, and ways in which you can support her and our family. Share your love with us here as it will inspire and encourage the healing process.

If you are lucky enough to know our Denese you know the wisdom and strength she carries always. Her strength is fortified by the incredible communities she creates and embraces, and now we have the opportunity to give back and be Denese's mighty supporters. There is never too much healing energy that one can pour into the universe, and now  we ask for it to be sent right to Denese. Let her hear your love and support over the phone, read it in a letter, or in a response to this post, which she will be reading. She is surrounded by her husband, Gus, her daughters, Emma and Sophia and her amazing friends and family. In addition to the excellent medical team at Stanford, she is being cared for and held closely by her local friends who are nurses, therapists, and holistic healers of body and energy. Each one of us plays a role in supporting Denese through this time.

Please visit this site for updates as her journey of care continues. There may be joyous and sorrowful updates, and we will all continue to hold her and each other as she moves forward.