We wanted to share an update with each of you regarding our cancer journey. My last round of chemotherapy was completed nearly a month ago on March 20th.   Yesterday marked the one year anniversary of my original diagnosis.  To say that we had a mixed crescendo of emotions about a CT scan being scheduled on this anniversary day, is an understatement. However, the most wonderful and blessed news came into my patient portal just thirty minutes after my IV was removed at the Martin Center, and then it was further confirmed at two doctors appointments afterwards.  WE GOT A CLEAN SCAN!  The results showed stable postsurgical changes of partial hepatectomy about the gallbladder fossa with cholecystectomy. There is no evidence of residual or recurrent/metastatic disease within the chest, abdomen, or pelvis. This news answered so many prayers!  We are thankful to God and give Him all the praise for this phenomenal report.

 

At both doctor appointments, I was told to simply "go live life".  What tremendous and positive information to have received, and we just wanted to thank each of you for your prayers, love and support.  It has been an extremely difficult year, with 6 surgeries, 22 days/nights in the hospital, 144 days of chemotherapy, and 30 days of radiation treatments. Reflecting on all that we have been through is an important step in redirecting our focus to look forward.  Throughout the past year, I have consistently been reminded that living in the present is exactly where we are supposed to be.  Worrying about what the future holds is not healthy, nor is it helpful.  Yes, I have a scan again in about three months and then again and then again, until my doctors are convinced that this evil and aggressive beast is gone for good. No, I am not out of the woods, but the peace that comes from knowing that my tomorrows are all planned out according to our Lord, and that He has my hand going forward is everything. 

 

The love that I have felt from Rich, our kids, our family, and friends has definitely strengthened my resolve when I was at my weakest points, and I am so deeply thankful to have had such a beautiful support system in place.  You all are so very special to me. I will never, ever, as long as I live, forget how each prayer and act of love gave me the energy and strength to keep going.  God daily gives me bright hope for tomorrow, and I firmly believe that people who fall and get back up are so much stronger than the ones who never fell.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart and soul.  You have tenderly touched my heart with your prayers, support, love, and I plan to pay each of these actions forward for the rest of my life.

 

Gratefully,

Jana

 

"Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid because the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you or forsake you."

Deuteronomy 31:6