Margaret Smith

After weeks of increasing weakness, our zany, sassy, spunky, hyperactive Wife, Mom and Nana was diagnosed August 22 with acute myeloid leukemia. It is a particularly aggressive strand of the blood cancer, explaining her rapid onset of tiredness, weakness, and all-day naps. Her hematologist/oncologist Khuda Khan--whom we already adore--has laid out a six-month attack of gentle chemotherapy (aggressive chemo would do more harm than good, he explained) five days in a row once a month, coupled with a new oral medication taken daily. We hope that chemo starts this Monday, August 29.


Our goal is not to "cure" the leukemia because that would require aggressive treatment but, rather, to put it into remission and control it.


We were shocked, shaken, and saddened (who am I kidding...brokenhearted) by this news. At the same time, we stand, sit, and some days lie helplessly in the able right hand of God, resting in his sovereignty, trusting in his goodness, and being strengthened by his care. We remember that, as Peter wrote in 2 Peter 1:3, "He has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by his own glory and goodness." 


If you know her, you will be glad to know that Mom's sense of humor is intact and operating at near 100 percent. Sarcasm, smart remarks, and funny one-liners are served up daily with her usual warmth. Thanks for walking this journey with us. If you want to drop Mom a card, you may send it to her at 4214 Silver Creek Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40272.