Jackie’s Story

Site created on March 26, 2018

On February 12th I came home from work and started making dinner for Sam and I.  While I was cooking I was burning the  Meatballs and had no idea I was having a seizure.  Thank goodness Sam was there to witness and take over.  Later I collapsed on the floor and Sam dialed 911.  I remember coming in and out of consciensness.  A trip in the ambulance to the ER  and then admitted into the hospital on Oncology floor.  I don't remember much of the ER or ride in the ambulance.  Everything is a blur and has been this past month.  I was told I have a brain tumor and need surgery.  I was supposed to go to Mercy but requested to stay in Ames for the night to adjust to this news.  When I was released I called Mayo Clinic and made an appointment to see a Neurologist there.  The past month went so fast and I can't remember it all.  I was scheduled for surgery March 1st and released March 3rd.  Just as the doctor told me!  They got about 90% of the tumor and I need to go through radiation and chemotherapy.  It is a grade 3 astrocytoma.  I feel like I made it through the worse with the surgery the rest will be easy!  I am scared to face these appointments but know with all your prayers I can Fight the Fight!  I recoperated at my parents house in Minnesota till I was strong enough to get back to my place.  I was able to go home after I rested at my parents home with their help.  My sister came to Iowa with me to help me adjust.  I also had my son home.  When people see me they say, "You still have your hair!"  Well, I have my brain too!  It is  funny to look back and see where I am today.  I am typing this myself!  Thank goodness for spell check!  I am so blessed and grateful for all the love and support from so many people!  If it wasn't for all of you I am not sure where I would be today.  I have so many to thank for the rides, cards, meals, kind words, and invitations to help me get my mind off all this!  I am truly grateful for all of you!  Also the many prayers that were said from so many people that know me or don't know me!  I can't explain how that feels!  I have learned I need to take one day at a time.  Sometimes there's curve balls or setbacks but mostly stick to the positive and keep moving forward!  Life can change in the blink of an eye!  I am blessed and grateful for each day I have!  Thanks to all of you that have been on my team!  I appreciate you all!  Keep the prayers coming they help!

Love and hugs and prayers,

Jackie

Newest Update

Thankful Tuesday!

Journal entry by Jackie Royer —

I'm so proud to announce that tonight I am taking my last chemo pill and last anti nausea pill that I take before the chemo pill.  I had an MRI on Friday after Thanksgiving and they said the area was due to radiation not a tumor growing.  I am so grateful for the good news!!
My next check up and scan is in January.

Both my boys are going to graduate in December. I am taking them both on a cruise to the Eastern Caribbean in February.  Sam is getting his CDL and will be driving truck around Iowa until he's 21.  Then he can travel outside the state.  AJ is going to work in Human Resources for HyVee.
I am so proud of my boys!

Wishing you all Happy Holidays!

Love, Jackie
Read More of the journal titled "Thankful Tuesday!"
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