Monday, September 14, 2009

Unexpected.

I'm not sure where to begin. I've rewritten these first couple sentences seven or eight times now.

They aren't getting any better with practice.

I wanted a nice lead-in, to break the news gently but words fail me and I can't.

I have breast cancer.

I was diagnosed two weeks ago after finding a lump the week prior.

And to answer your question, I'm okay. I am really doing alright. Shocked? yes. This was not something I really worried about much. Skin cancer I worried about since I am fair skinned and my grandmother had it. Breast cancer was a distant worry after a whole host of other medical conditions. After all, we have no family history of breast cancer and I am, in the breast cancer realm, fairly young. But overall, I am feeling pretty calm.

I had a little meltdown yesterday in church (hence the tweet for those of you who saw it on twitter or facebook) but I am feeling better again. I have been overwhelmed by the expressions support and love I have received, I am so grateful for the kind thoughts and prayers.

I don't yet know the extent of the cancer or what my treatment will be. I find out more information tomorrow (Tuesday) when I go in for a five hour consult with my treatment team.

I anticipate writing more regularly as I go through whatever this journey brings me... after writing a bazillion emails and messages this past week to various family and friends I appreciate the concept of a central location for information dissemination.

Fear not, my crafting friends, that this blog will turn into a medical drama... there is still plenty of knitting and sewing to be had... and, frankly, medical terminology makes me squeamish.

So, yeah. That's my news. Sorry to be a downer. But it's going to be alright. It will.

And ladies? Make sure you are checking the girls!



PS. I know I owe a follow-up post regarding the malaria net fund-raising ($1400!!!!!! Y'all are A-Mazing!) with pictures and the giveaway winners but I was waiting for Father Crispin to return so I could have the whole story. He was supposed to be back two weeks ago but ironically, Fr. Crispin contracted malaria while he was in Kenya so he only just got back. I ask you to be patient for a little while longer and I will share everything about this awesome project soon.

11 comments:

Unknown said...

I will be thinking about you today! Remember that we are all here for you! {{{{{{{{{{Katie}}}}}}}}}}}}

Nina said...

Thinking of you Katie, and sending lots of love and hugs your way. XOXOXO

Erin said...

Thinking of you and your lovely family today and sending you lots of positive vibes!

Megan said...

Oh, Katie. You and your family are in my prayers.

Mary Catherine said...

hugs! remember that if you need anything there are lots of us who are willing to jump in :)

Sarah-potterknitter said...

Sending lots of positive thoughts!
My mother is almost done with her treatments, it's been quite a summer for her and all of us.
Remember that you are in charge, and ask lots of questions. Or take someone along who will ask them for you. And if you forget a question, call back.
Good luck

sonomahead said...

Hugs and smooches Girlie!
Know that you are in my heart, thoughts and prayers.
You are strong and will beat this and we will be with you every step of the way. Cancer won't know what hit it!!!

mames said...

Katie, I am fiercely praying for you and for all the healing vibes that can be had to be directed like a straight arrow north. Wishing I could give a hug too....amiee

Kate said...

Thinking of ya Katie!

In other news: So sorry to hear about your pastor! I hope he's ok too!!

Anonymous said...

thinking of you and sending extra prayers and good vibes your way

chihockey said...

You're in my prayers.