First post:
Sep 16, 2020 Latest post:
Jan 12, 2021
I'm vulnerable, I'm exposed. I'm at the very beginning of this journey and I already know it's going to be an extremely humbling one. It does not inspire in me the desire to exactly celebrate, but I'm not fearing the possible and likely embarrassing situations I may encounter and need assistance with and through. I truly believe I will discover another side of love and humility; one that is as hard to appreciate as the smell of fertilizer, but with benefits just as undeniable.
August 14th I heard the words no one wants to hear; unfortunately the results came back and you have cancer. Invasive duct carcinoma stage 1 (aka the little rat bastard 🐀). The appointments were so numerous they became a blur, but each got me closer to the best treatment plan possible. I'm now slated for 6 months of chemotherapy to be followed by (a yet undetermined) surgery. I was hoping this would be over and done quicker, sooner, faster. Patience is not my superpower, but I'm learning to take time with myself and the healing process.
I'm glad that you've chosen to support me through this experience. I hope you will not be offended by my transparency or requests for action OR privacy. Please forgive me if my responses are delayed.
I need this to feel as much like me as it possibly can so I'll find, share, and request as many opportunities to laugh as possible! I'm going to try my best to be my silliest self! How can you help? Don't be afraid to share something humorous, informative, inspirational. See a funny or cute wig? Big earrings to accent my big bald head? Send them to me. I plan to take plenty of photos to share the treasures you all send me. My address is:
Rae Karringten 11228 37th Ave SW Seattle, WA 98146
I don't have my family with me on this side of the country so this caring bridge couldn't be more appropriately named. Hearing from and receiving things from you all will help reduce the feeling of the distant. Many of you already know, but for those of you confused by my name, I had a legal name change 2 years ago so I'm officially Rae. At the time I had no idea how purposeful it was, but there isn't anything God doesn't know and He is the master planner!
I'm ready to fight and even more ready to win. Thank you for being my corner person!
CaringBridge is a nonprofit social network dedicated to helping family and friends communicate with and support loved ones during a health journey. Learn more about CaringBridge.
