We hope that everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day weekend. 💖

Whether you are a Mom, a Grandmother, a single Mom, a Step-Mom, a Mother-to-be, or just missing a Mom, it is a time to reflect and celebrate... otherwise we wouldn't be here! 😆 

Stephanie's Mother's Day was filled with love and her two favorite stinkers, Kai and Lola! Yes, both kids are home from college and this could not make Stephanie any happier. Both kids have had a successful and adventurous year at school. Given that Lola is not too far away, she has been able to get home more often and enjoy some one-on-one time with her Mama. Lola is getting ready to go on an educational experience of a lifetime. At the end of May, Lola will travel to Zambia, Africa, as part of the International Foundation for Science, a research program that helps strengthen developing countries with quality research on the management, use and conservation of biological resources. It should be mentioned that Lola is one of only 8 students in the United States that was chosen to have this experience as a young promising scientist. Kai is now back home from his freshman year in Maine. This experience has brought a lot of independence, growth, and joy to this young man. While he knows he is not done with Maine, or future travels, Kai has decided to return home to be closer to his Mom and twin Sister. Kai will be transferring to the University of Georgia, Athens this fall! Go Bulldogs! 

The last few months for Stephanie have consisted of work, doctor's appointments, regular treatments, and getting as much rest as she can. It has been monotonous, yet this routine is her new normal. These long hours, and being in tune with her body, Stephanie can tell her body has slowed, including her appetite and ability to move easily. It takes a conscious effort to do the day-to-day activities that most of us take for granted. Pain and sleep have become sometimes unbearable at times, yet through her palliative oncologist team, her pain management is a top priority and being closely monitored to keep her comfortable as possible. With this said, Stephanie has noticed some additional back pain and new side effects that have had her concerned. Being an advocate for own her health, Stephanie requested earlier than usual scans to monitor these concerns. Yesterday, she had a CT Scan of her abdomen and organs, followed by an MRI of her spine and brain this coming Monday.  Stephanie will meet with her oncologist the following day to discuss if there are any new findings from these scans. Once we have updates, we will be sure to update all of you here. 

Given everything going on, Stephanie is a very positive and upbeat.  She was able to utilize some of her disability to take the entire month of May off. The intent of this is let her body rest and recuperate, and enjoy her kids at home. While the rest is definitely helping, Stephanie is finding blessings in each and every day. 

Please continue to send your well wishes, prayers, and generosity, as they are much appreciated. 

As always, you are loved. ❤️

https://gofund.me/dde65400