Kim McLaren

First post: Sep 30, 2021 Latest post: Nov 8, 2021
Welcome to our CaringBridge website. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place. We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement. Thank you for visiting.


Dear family and friends,

 

You may have heard that on Friday, August 20th I received a diagnosis of Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, a type of breast cancer.  I had been having symptoms so was aware that something might be amiss, but it was still shocking to receive the diagnosis.  As the last two weeks have passed, I have undergone more testing, gathered lots of information, and developed a treatment plan with my oncologist.  I’d like to share a bit about that process with you.

 

On Monday August 30th I had an MRI, lying on my stomach with my arms out, a la flying Superman style.  It felt odd to be in that position, but that is par for the course as I navigate this new terrain, figuring out how this all fits into my life.  On Tuesday, August 31st Amanda accompanied me to meet Dr. Eunice Cho, a highly regarded surgical oncologist.  Our overall impression was that she is very knowledgeable and competent.  KC attended by phone and summed up the appointment by stating that the information was coming so fast, it felt like trying to drink from a fire hose. Fortunately, Amanda is a speedy typist and brought a laptop, so she was able to capture all the salient points.  

 

What I would like you to know is this:

 

1.      We initially thought there were 2 masses in the right breast, one Stage I and the other Stage II.  We are still hoping that is the case, although there was a shady spot in the left breast that Dr. Cho wanted to examine further.

2.      Dr. Cho does not believe the cancer has spread.

3.      Treatment will include surgery, likely a lumpectomy, in the end of September.  She will also take a sample of lymph nodes from both arms.

4.      The pathology report will be complete a few days after surgery, and that will determine the next step.  Most likely it will be radiation treatments, followed by hormone therapy.  

5.      Dr. Cho anticipates a good outcome, stating that the 5 year survival rate for this type of cancer is greater than 90%.

 

I have invited you to join this CaringBridge site because of the relationship, connection, and love we have shared in the past.  It’s difficult to anticipate how I will be feeling as I journey down this road.  At the moment I am holding positive thoughts for healing and complete recovery.  Several people have indicated they are keeping me in their prayers, and I very much appreciate that.  I also appreciate people reaching out, although I may not always answer calls.  Please know that your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes sustain me during this time.  Even if we don’t connect face to face, or voice to voice, it lifts me up to know you care.  

 

This site will be updated as we gather new information.  You will be notified via email when there’s a new journal entry, so you know to come check it out.  Please feel free to let others know about this site.  For those who don’t already know, I moved to a new home last summer.  

My new address is:

10917 SE 251st Pl, Unit A

Kent, WA. 98030

 

Cards and letters are always welcome and much appreciated!  




Kim

 


 




 

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