Backing up a little...

I've been meaning to begin this blog for a while now - but nothing really seemed "real" until the whole process with MD Anderson began today. I even kept wondering if the 2nd opinion doctor was going to tell Mom she didn't even have cancer! But the 2nd opinion came through to verify the first. She does have breast cancer, BUT it is small, treatable, and I think they even used the word "curable"!

All in all, it's still pretty good news. Her lymph nodes seem to be fine and there are no signs that the cancer has spread.

But - I thought I might need to give a little background for anyone who might just now be "tuning in".

On January 14th, 2008, my mom, Sherrie Harrell, was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had just gone in for a routine checkup when the doctor noticed an area of concern on her mammogram.

***Ladies, remember...those monthly self-examinations are very important as well as yearly screenings by your doctor once you turn 40. For people with risk factors, especially a mother or sister that has been diagnosed with breast cancer, those yearly screenings should begin earlier than 40.***

The doctor performed a biopsy that came back with the result: Mom had an area, smaller than a peanut, that was cancerous.

In addition to the general feeling of fear, uncertainty, and helplessness that such a diagnosis brings, my family had already been deeply affected by breast cancer. My cousin Carla had passed away from complications from cancer a month earlier, on December 17, at 41 years of age. Her mother, my mom's sister, who is my Aunt Veta, is currently struggling with Stage IV cancer.

Mom's doctor in Midland was ready to do a lumpectomy right away, but after visiting with many people who have been affected by cancer themselves, she decided to contact MD Anderson in Houston for evaluation and treatment.

The wait to hear back from MD Anderson seemed interminable, but we finally got some news! Mom could be a patient there (yay!) but the first available appointment wasn't until March (boo!). So, Mom took the March appointment and asked Loria, her "caseworker", if she might have the chance of an earlier appointment if someone else canceled. Later that same day, Loria called to say there was a cancellation on February 14th! So, that's where we are exactly today. My parents are spending their Valentine's Day at a cancer center, but most importantly they are spending it together!

So far the loving response we've had from our friends and family has been amazing. We continue to receive an outpouring of love and support. There have been awe-inspiring stories happening already but I'll save those for another post.

Here's a quick prayer request list I'd like to share:
1. The pastor from my childhood church, Wayman Swopes. I can't keep all the details straight, but he is currently at MD Anderson for treatment. My mom plans to go visit him today.
2. Elveta McClatchey, my aunt with Stage IV cancer. She'd been able to stay at home, but was admitted to the hospital a few days ago.
3. All the doctors, staff, and patients at MD Anderson and everywhere dealing with cancer.
4. My mom.