Judy Cox

Where to begin? Hmm…


Well, it was 9 months prior to July 29, 1964….JUST KIDDING! I won't put y'all through her entire life story. I'll just start from the beginning of this interesting detour in life, or as we have named it, " the cervical monster" adventure. As most of you know, Mom has recently been diagnosed with Stage 3 cervical cancer. Our mama bear has not been feeling the best for a few months, and after quite a few unanswered doctors appointments, one was finally able to figure out that she has an 8 cm "squamous cell" in her cervix. According to a PET scan performed on February 8th at UNC (Go Heels!), it has not metastasized to any organs at this time. It also appears to be contained within the cervical wall right now. The only place it has metastasized to is the lymph nodes, but only the ones within the pelvic area. At this same appointment, they did some routine blood work, which came back GREAT! We are very thankful for all of this information and can only attribute these blessings to our Lord. We see you, God, looking out! #blessed 


Currently, the doctors at UNC are working to finalize her aggressive treatment plan. At this time, we know that she will be receiving radiation 5 days per week. This will target the tumor, more affectionally known as "the cervical monster," as well as the affected lymph nodes. They will also radiate one level above the affected lymph nodes to ensure that they get everything. In addition to the radiation, Mom will also be receiving 1 day of chemo per week. All of this treatment will last for 6-8 weeks. At the end of this time, the tumor will likely be gone. On the off chance that the "cervical monster" still remains, the doctors will perform surgery to remove him. This little booger doesn't stand a chance as far as we are concerned. 


Mom goes in for a radiation "dry-run" (where do they get these terms!?) on Friday, the 17th. They will begin her official radiation on the 20th of February.  When her lovely doctor told her that there was a 12pm slot open for radiation, Mom stated, and I quote, "Hmmm, Let me see …" At this point, Lisa (who's face I'm sure was mortified) looked to the doctor, and said, "We'll take it!" The "tumor board" at UNC (seriously, who names this stuff?) will meet on Wednesday, February 15th to discuss mom's findings, and they will finalize a plan specific to mom's tumor. 


The past few weeks have been VERY long. And, by long, I mean I feel like we have lived 2 years in 2 weeks. But, as you all know, Mom is extremely resilient and will get through this obstacle just as she has overcome so many others. We appreciate all of the prayers, support, and general good vibes as mom continues to fight this "cervical monster"  :) Continue checking back for updates!