Hi everyone, and Happy Summer! Hopefully you're all having a bit of fun and relaxing. :)
I'm writing to tell you that my life has changed drastically as of Thursday, 6/16/11 @ 5:37 pm. That's when my doctor called and informed me that I have a brain tumor.
Here's what happened... I had been having headaches and nausea for about 2 months and finally made an appointment (on Wednesday -- our first day of summer vaca!) to have it checked out. As I explained to the doctor, over the past year I have been working full time, going to school full time, actively interviewing and attempting to find an overseas job, all the while attempting to be as involved as possible with my two daughters and husband. Additionally, 3 weeks ago we purchased a foreclosed home, to which we are moving on Wednesday. Although I have not felt stressed at all, I attributed the symptoms to some form of stress that must have been manifesting itself by way of a headache. I just figured I had migraines. He suggested an MRI, which I fought him on because I thought it was medically and financially frivolous. He insisted. I obliged and was scheduled immediately. During the MRI, which was actually quite relaxing, I got to listen to some reggae tunes on the headphones and even sneaked in a little nap under the warm white lights -- that was my virtual day at the beach! I left the clinic only to be called back an hour later to do some additional imaging with contrast. The following day, I got the call.
Here's my plan... I'm going to fight like a girl and kick it's ass! Sorry for the swearing, somehow "butt" just doesn't have the same oomph in this scenario!
What do I need from you... Your attempt to use my situation as a way to look at your own life through a different lens. Follow the golden rule, play with your kids, live each day to its fullest and SMILE! I have the fortune/misfortune of learning this at a young age -- my father passed away when I was young. Since then, I feel like I've lived each day to its fullest and will continue to do so.
My sincere apologies for not calling each of you personally. But I've got family to laugh with and kids to play with! I'll update you as I can. In the meantime, keep the prayers coming... there's nothing like the power of prayer.
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