Missy (Melissa)’s Story

Site created on April 18, 2021

In a matter of two weeks ago today, on Easter Sunday 2021, our lives changed forever.

While on spring break vacation in Florida with Anna, she brought me into the ER there with pain in my abdomen that was increasing in intensity. Eric and Anders had decided to stay home in Minnesota for this trip; Anders had shoulder surgery a couple weeks prior and wasn't up for traveling yet, and Eric likes to stay home these days preparing for Spring planting. So, it was just a girls' trip! I initially thought the pain I was experiencing was just from PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome), which I was diagnosed with a year ago. With PCOS, ovarian cysts grow, causing some pain, but subside with time. However, the pain on Easter Sunday was intense far beyond what I experienced before. Thank God for sweet Anna being trained already as an EMT and CNA. She handled my care and situation with great control.  After the ER performed a CT scan, a large mass was detected and I was told I would need emergency surgery for removal.  The surgeon removed a 6 inch diameter mass, along with an ovary and fallopian tube. Eric flew immediately to Florida when he learned of my surgery. After a few days recovering in the Florida hospital, I was discharged and eager to get back to Minnesota. Before flying home, the Florida surgeon called with the pathology report and informed me that the mass, ovary, and fallopian tube all were cancerous and that the cancer possibly originated from my colon. After an uncomfortable plane ride back to MN and a bit more recovery from surgery, we began doctoring at the Frauenshuh Cancer Center in St.Louis Park, starting with an oncology consultation on Thursday. Then, on Friday morning, I experienced more pain and bleeding, causing concern. I was advised to go to an ER. Eric and I decided to go to the ER at Methodist Hospital in the Cities, connected to the Frauenshuh Cancer Center, to allow for scans and testing that would be readily available to my oncologist and the best possible care as we move forward with doctoring. On Saturday, I had a colonoscopy and endoscopy performed.  The colonoscopy showed a near-complete blockage of my colon by the originating mass of cancer, making my diagnosis stage IV cancer. The current plan is to hopefully have colon surgery on Tuesday to remove the mass and obstructed portion of my colon. After a couple weeks of good recovery results, I would then start chemotherapy to combat the other cancer cells remaining in my body. 

... The picture of Anna and I was taken in Florida the day before Easter.

We are using CaringBridge to keep family and friends updated in one place. We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement. Thank you for visiting. Thank you for your prayers. Thank you for your support. Most of all, thank you for your love.❤️

Newest Update

Journal entry by Missy Grimsgard

These posts are difficult to find the words. It would be easier to say good news. 

After preparing and expecting to have surgery at Mayo this fall, our plans suddenly changed. 

The days leading up to surgery initially showed everything on course, but the very last scan, the day before surgery showed something new that was not showing up on the other images. The scan showed more possible cancer tumors growing so they needed a biopsy to confirm cancer. This was an emotional rollercoaster for us as scans and biopsies showed differing information but ultimately a biopsy confirmed new cancer growth. Mayo cancelled the surgery as surgical treatment is no longer a viable option. Chemotherapy will be my only option going forward. Hearing this was difficult. This news was not what we were expecting, but we saw God's presence at Mayo with us in the events that unfolded. We are keeping positive that He knows my best plan & to stay strong through this change in course.

I started chemotherapy this week in the Twin Cities. I am getting the same powerful dose as before that causes illness and skin sores, especially on the face. We are hoping this regimen will shrink down the cancer tumors. 

I still watch the sunsets during chemotherapy cycles, although through the windows instead of the screen porch, looking for God's beautiful awesomeness in the day and my life. Looking for the positives in each day and praying that God continues to strengthen me. My family shares in focusing on living fully and positively. 

We are so grateful for those who reach out to support us. Your thoughtful cards, messages and visits uplift us. Your kindness and love give us strength and comfort. We thank you for your prayers. We thank you for your support. Most of all, we thank you for your love.❤️

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