Judy Backhaus Judy's Journey

Judy successfully prevailed in Round 1 over triple negative breast cancer in 2016,  After almost two years of remission, we learned in June 2018 that it was back for another bout.  Unfortunately, it had metastasized to her lung and her brain.  Judy wasn't going to go down without a fight.  

For the past year, Judy has undergone numerous chemotherapy and and radiation treatments. The procedures have slowed the explosive growth of the cancer cells, but they also have taken a toll on her body.  

While taking a routine hiatus from the chemo this past month, Judy felt under the weather and went to the ER.  The docs performed a battery of tests and found fluid around her heart which was promptly drained.  However, the tests also showed that the tumors were taking advantage of the chemo holiday and have rapidly grown in number and size.  Judy's oncologist was shocked to see how aggressively the cancer was taking over - just in a matter of weeks.

After discussions with her doctor and family, Judy has decided to forego additional cancer treatments.  She'd prefer to enjoy her loved ones and friends during the time she has left with us, instead of feeling miserable and weak from the chemo.

We're starting this CaringBridge site to keep Judy's expansive social network up to date - but also so her many, many friends can reach out to Judy and share their memories and musings with her.  So please write, call, e-mail post - Judy would love to hear from you!