Fran’s Story

Site created on September 28, 2021


Thank you all for your incredible support of Fran and our family. We know that our Fran is fiercely strong in mind, body and spirit. Your outpour of love and prayers sustains us. We feel surrounded by God's love as we walk through this fire and know that he holds Fran in the palm of his hand. 

"Don't fear, because I am with you; don't be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will surely help you; I will hold you with my righteous strong hand." Isaiah 41:10. 


As many of you know our journey began in Spring 2021 when doctors found a tumor in Fran's spine. At the time doctors believed the tumor was benign.  During surgery on June 17th, they were able to remove 97% of the tumor because 3% was wrapped around the nerve. After surgery, the tumor was sent to pathology and identified as an isolated metastatic melanoma. Her PET scan was clear other than the remaining 3% on her spine. In July 2021, Fran explored treatment plans for melanoma of the spine. Doctors determined the best pan of action was to do radiation at the surgical site and immunotherapy. Her first immunotherapy was July 26th and she had some side effects but tolerated them well. On August 18th she had her second (and final) immunotherapy. After her second immunotherapy treatment, she experienced rare side effects (droop eye lids, blurred vision and double vision) leading doctors to cease further immunotherapy treatment. She also began radiation on September 1st. She has completed 17 of 25 treatments. In Mid- September, Fran started to experience symptoms of heart complications. After consulting her cardiologist, she was admitted to the hospital on September 25th which is where this CaringBridge begins. 

Newest Update

December 14, 2021

Journal entry by Tricia Teter —

Greetings Family and Friends,

I hope all of you are having a wonderful holiday season. I thought this would be a good time to give you an update and share some good news. Yesterday I had an echocardiogram and received an early Christmas gift when I was told that my heart’s ejection fraction is 59%! 50%-60% is normal and if you have been following these updates, you may remember that during my worst days, it was in the 20s. I am so thankful that God has answered our prayers and is healing my heart.

In addition, I am getting stronger every day. I am doing physical therapy at home and will start out-patient PT in January (back to the gym!). Last week my physical therapist told me I no longer need the rollator walker and gave me permission to walk unassisted. That was a game changer for me and my mobility. Yesterday, my doctor gave me permission to drive! If you are out and about in Charlotte today, watch out! I have a long list! Do not worry, I am continuing to pace myself and am getting plenty of rest…doctor’s orders!

I cannot begin to thank all of you for the continued prayers and support you have given me during my illness and recovery. I am truly grateful. Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas surrounded by your loved ones and a Happy and Heathy New Year!

Love,

Fran

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