Sunday, January 9, 2011

Statistics

Hello friends, it has been 11 days since my first chemo treatment.  I can say that each day recently, I have felt better and stronger.  The treatment was pretty hard on me and it took me an entire week to start feeling better.  I had a very difficult time getting my nausea under control and did end up vomiting quite often that first week.  I have 4 more days until treatment number two and I'm hopeful, but still apprehensive about how I will react. I do have a new medication to help with the nausea so it is hard to say what the future will hold, but I am definitely counting down the days and of course enjoying the good days that are here and the rest that I know will come until this Thursday.

I thought I'd share something a bit comical that has become a habit since I got my hair cut.  Maybe I can get away with calling it a quirk at this point since it hasn't been that long since my locks were shorne.  But either way, I have been awaiting the day that my hair might fall out.  Every day, I actually pull on my hair just to make sure it is still attached to my head.  So far so good... I am not bald yet, but I might very well end up with a sore scalp if I keep going.

I also have some interesting statistics that Kevin has come across in his internet research.  He spends time  making sure that he has found all the latest and updated research information about medication in regards to my particular cancer.  My oncologist is such a wonderful man and he is always open to any information that we may run across.  Anyway, here are a couple of tidbits.


  • The incidence of any race female between the ages of 35-39 being diagnosed with Gastric Cancer is 1.5813 per 100,000.
  • The incidence of Asian females between the ages of 35 - 39 being diagnosed with Gastric Cancer is 2.4005 per 100,000
  • For those of us that make it 5 years after diagnosis,  the likelihood of making it 10 years jumps dramatically

What do these statistics mean to me?  They are emotional statistics... I tear up writing them, but just briefly and then I figure that if I'm so unique that I would be that 1 or 2, then I can be that odd statistic that makes it... I don't know what "making it" might mean, but why not me?  It also means that the longer I fight, the longer I'll make it.  I will embrace these statistics and make my own.

This also reminds me what my wise Oncologist told me when I asked him for a "benchmark" after our first meeting with him.  I had decided early on that I wanted a number... how long would I have?  Originally, I had decided that if I had this number/benchmark that it would give me a goal or something to beat.  Do you know what he said?  He said, "no".  He said that he can give me statistics, but none of those statistics are me so "no", he couldn't honestly tell me.  He also said he didn't know the future and he didn't want to guess.  He's a wonderful doctor and I'm grateful that he is mine.

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend, I can honestly say I did.

Until next time...

-Katie

103 comments:

Mrs. Nancy G said...

You are my friend and I love you.

Thank you Katie.
:-)

Anonymous said...

The oncologists in the Bellingham area are great. We are lucky to have such a great team of medical professionals.
I am not sure which of the doctors you were lucky to have but I find that everyone here who has been thru this cancer experience have loved each of them for different reasons.
One of the reasons I have responded here is that i have found going to the support group that there are so many women who have beat the odds of the statistics. One woman in her 70s found out that she had pancreatic cancer with less than one year statiscally and it has been over 5 years and she is still going strong. The facillatator at the group is so great about telling us that we are not our cancer and that we although all have cancer all cancer is different to each of us. She has taught us that we are the CEO's of taking care of our health and healing and our energy is best served by taking care of ourselves mentally and to use our energy for healing in whatever serves us best. I have never been a person who went to groups but I have found that this has been the best thing in helping to keep mind, body and spirit going thru the ups and downs of this cancer journey.
Best wishes to you and your family.

Karen said...

Hi Katie!

I think of you every day when I wake up wondering how you're going! Stay strong and fight with all you have ok!

Luv Karen
Australia

PS - thanks for visiting my blog - I was so chuffed to see your comment!

OH and I still say you look as cute as a button with your new do!

Eden said...

I love you my dear sister, I'm such a sap but I love you so much and I cannot ever express enough to do it justice how much you mean to me and how much I appreciate your love and support.

You've always been an amazing person for me to look up to but it's quite a severe understatement when I say you are inspirational, and you are kind and loving and I just so appreciate you keeping up this blog.

You're writing is moving and beautiful and again, it's no surprise as to how many people are following you and want to continue to hear of your inspiring strength and very human perspective on your fight against this terrible disease.

I love you my dear Sister.

Margreet said...

Hi Katie...I'm here following Jak Heath...I'm deeply impressed by your story (your writing is so catching you should publish it)...and I wish you more than all the best...as I'm Dutch it is a bit difficult to express my feelings in English...but I hope you understand I will keep you in my thoughts!
xxx Margreet

janine said...

Found your blog through Craft Critique. I must say after reading just the little bits that I have, it amazes me how much we sound alike with respect to the many things that are going through your mind---or at least the ones you write about. The post that really struck me the most was the one where you talked about your faith and belief in God and your search to find exactly where you fit in with that. Like you, I also live my life by doing 'the right thing', never lying to people, and being kind to everyone I meet, believing people do have the best intentions and forgiving them when they don't. I realize there are a many people out here whose circumstances are far more difficult than my own and, I try my best to help them. Despite all of this, still I can see where the majority of the way I live my life seems to have more to do with my parents and the way they raised me, than anything else. Yet, even despite this, I do believe in God but I'm not sure of much else after that. I reached my 5 years in July last year with my cancer not coming back. Although it was the longest mile I have ever 'walked', still I don't feel as if I walked it alone. Sorry, I'm just rambling at this point but I did want to stop in, after seeing the post about you on Craft Critique, and say 'hello' and that I'm thinking about you.

♥ Lydia ♥ said...

Popping in with a Monday morning smile :) Wishing you a good day today...huge hugs to you and ALL your boys x xxxx

Saskia said...

Katie,

You're in my thoughts!!!

BIG hug!

Saskia :)

Anonymous said...

Your new haircut looks fabulous, shows off your pretty little face!I'm not clever with words and cant express myself any thing like you can, but I just want to say I think you are an inspiration, If I may, I would like to join you on your journey and cheer you along your path.
Love and hugs, Pauline

Anonymous said...

Hi Katie,
I just came across your story and wanted to say how moved I was by it. I know I dont know you at all but I really wish you and your family all the best. You come across so positive through this ordeal and that is so inspiring and heart warming. I truly wish there was words to express how sorry I am for your situation. I am not a praying person but I shall most definitely be sending positive thoughts your way and wishing all the best for you and your amazing family xx
PS: The haircut looks adorable!!

ValerieC said...

Katie,
I'm a fellow crafter who stumbled upon you through blog surfing. You seem amazingly brave and I will say some prayers for you. Our 17 year old grandson was diagnosed with throat cancer last May. He never smoked or drank...EVER! This type of cancer is typical of heavy smokers and drinkers. He has lost his epiglottis, part of his voice box, and part of his tongue. He has a tracheostomy and a feeding tube. He's gone through the first phase of chemo, radiation, and surgery. They believe that they got everything. He's on his second phase. He's amazingly positive and goes to school whenever possible. Keep being as positive as possible. Attitude does help. So do prayers and I send a million prayers your way!!!!!

Andrea C said...

Hi Katie just read your blog and people who are positive like you seem to be are the fighters and survivors. I hope your next batch of chemo is a little easier on you and my thoughts and love are with you xx

Debbie Pamment said...

Hi Katie,

I'm soo glad you had a good weekend - it must help to know you have good times ahead!

You write sooo eloquently - and I hope it help you to get through it all as it helps us understand!

Lot of love
xXx

Trish said...

Hi Katie

I've come here via Jak Heath, and just want to wish you all the best with your continued treatment. I had breast cancer, fortunately found early enough not to have any nasty treatments, although my youngest daughter had to have chemo therapy twice in about as many years after finding lumps in both breasts.
Positive thinking is absolutely essential, and looking at your blog, I feel that you have this.
Sending many good vibes.

Ted said...

Your oncologist is a wise man. Statistics can mean very little. In fact, 5 out of 4 people have trouble doing statistics!

And remember, Katie... God doesn't do what He does by listening to statistics.

Stay strong... and you will beat the so-called "odds". :)

But perhaps go easy on your scalp. No reason to punish it! ;)

Gram's Treasures said...

Good for you...I love your positive outlook! Take care and have a great day.
Joyce xx

KellyS said...

Hi Katie! I came across your story yesterday, and am moved by your story. I will be praying for you and your family! I definitely will give my twins an extra big hug everyday.

Stay strong and hugs to you and your family!

Cassie said...

Of course you're unique! You're Katie! You'll be the over 10 year stat, I'm so hopeful of it :D Sending love, Katie!!

Hazel (Didos) said...

Hi Katie,
Just found you via Jaks blog, Just letting you know you are in my thoughts.
Love Hazelxoxox

Holly Young said...

i'm glad you like your doctor Katie. and i'm REALLY glad you had a nice weekend. Now quit pulling on your hair!

IamDerby said...

Yay for good doctors! Go easy on your head! xxoo

Anonymous said...

First, I want to say I can just see you pulling on your hair. I love that and I think I'd be right there with you!

Second, I'm thankful that your doctor is honest, which I think is loving.

B-E-A-T BEAT IT! I hope and pray you will!

Em

cancerme said...

Good morning Katie! "Our" doctor told me the same when I asked! What could have been a frustrating answer, I took as a challenge. I gave me confidence in myself. I then knew that those statistics didn't apply to ME! We all know you are a different brand of fighter! We are all here for you as you gear up for round two. On bad days, remember all the things you are fighting for. On good days, revel in the seconds, mintutes and hours where the small insignificant issues don't matter anymore...then collect them because this is what will sustain you! Stay strong Katie!

Donna said...

Hi Katie, I came across your blog via Jaks. I just wanted to say hi and let you know how much your story has moved me, I love your honesty about your journey and i want to thank you for sharing it. Oh and by the way, you really suit your new hair do. Stay strong, I'll be thinking of you! x

Wanda said...

Hi Katie, I just wanted you to know I'm here on your journey with you! We are sisters in crafting and I'm praying for you and wanted to let you know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Keep up your great attitude! Faith is a great healer of the heart and body. Know you have many, many people behind you! Have a blessed day! Huggles

Whimcees said...

Hello,

It has been some time since I have visited your blog and I have read now of your diagnosis and treatment. God Bless you my dear - you and your beautiful family are in my daily prayers.

Wishing you a good day today and hope that you continue to feel better and gain strength for the next chemo. Stay strong. You do look lovely with your new short haircut - you are a beautiful and brave young woman!


Hugs and prayers,

Barbara Diane

Marsha said...

I just found out about your story from Wendy Hall. I'm so sorry, Katie. But I detect a very strong determination to beat this. Good for you. I have never been to your blog before, although have emailed you through CDS. Remember, I am just up the road a ways so maybe we can get together. I know God hears our prayers and I will be praying for you and your family as you go through this tough time.

Carla said...

Hi Katie - I'm a fellow papercrafter and stumbled across your story while blog surfing.
I'm so touched by what you are going through, as are so many others! I'm a cancer survivor - the doctors gave me 6 months to live - and I'm here 30 years (and 2 kids) later. So believe me when I say that miracles happen! Keep fighting!!
Sending many many prayers for you & your family!!
Take care,
Carla Ironside

C said...

God's blessings be upon you and your family Katie. God bless your doctor for being so wise. Our friend had stage 3 colon cancer, received full bore chemo and never lost her hair. That is my prayer for you as well.

Hang tough lady!

Jackie and Brian said...

Katie...leave it to a teacher to want to know a "benchmark" or a number/goal to shoot for! That made me smile :) I hope your next round of Chemo is nicer to you and that the medication will do it's job. I admire your strength, and Kevin's as well. I also appreciate the fact that you blog about what you are going through, good or bad. That kind of goes back to being a "teacher" thing as well...they always tell us to "document" everything! Take care and I wish you well during the next round.

Jennie said...

I know nothing I can say will help.
But i just wanted to let you know I am thinking of you and I so hope that everything works out for you.

Sending you all the love in the world. You are such a strong, inspirational person

xxx

Becky Sorensen said...

Statistics, smistics!! lol You are not one, nor will ever be. You are doing awesome and you will keep on keeping on. Ok, so we know what the first treatment did, so the next one won't be so bad - and I have Ritz crackers on the shopping list - lol Love ya Vampira!!!

jenlynnie said...

i know that you are getting tons of advice & things are overwhelming especially when you are not feeling great. but have you guys looked into acupuncture? it is so very helpful to get you past some of the side effects of the chemo. especially the nausea. i am an acupuncturist & i would give my aunt treatments right after her chemo & it helped her a lot. she would be able to sit at the table right after to eat dinner with everyone... just throwing that out to you. i wish you well & hope that you can win this fight. you have plenty of people rooting for you.

Shirley said...

Hi Katie,

I am so happy to hear you had a great week. You know, I would do the exact same thing with my hair. Test it out. I am thinking of you and praying for you and your family.

Runnergirl Creations said...

Katie ~ Praying for you! You have given me courage to deal with something awful that happened to me on Friday. Thank you for being so strong! I'm praying for you each day!

Meredith MacRitchie said...

Did I just pick up that you are in Bellingham? You really are only half an hour away! Oh well, that doesn't mean anything, does it?

Again, your courage, your will and your attitude just astound me. I know you are going to make it past that 5 years, and I know you're going to be the miracle story that will inspire someone else who faces this fight.

I picked up my digital package in return for making a donation - I know this is the VERY least that I can do, but I am more than happy to do it. I can see all over my blog list that so many people are supporting you and pulling for you... it's wonderful!

Is there somewhere that I can send you a card or something? It's strange - I feel like I want to thank you for how much you've inspired me... and I am guessing you just feel like you're doing what you have to, right?

If there is a p/o box or something, I'd love to be able to send you something!

Barb said...

Katie - I love reading your updates -You have a wonderful way with words! I am SO GLAD your Dr. did not give you a time limit! He was very wise not to do that! Still sending prayers and good thoughts to you as you fight this battle. Hang in there - Cancer is tough but you are tougher!!!!

Hugs, Barb

Anonymous said...

Hi Katie,

I have just read your story ( I'll be back later to nosey at your crafting once I've got the kids down to bed). I'm sorry that this is happening to you and I promise to pray for you. Life does throw some hard balls at us. I know nothing of how hard it must be for you but I think you're doing amazingly. You talk of a spiritual journey- tough times seem to start that in people. When we lost one of our children I only survived because I clung onto God. You're an inspiration - remember to be kind to yourself too.xx

Anonymous said...

Katie, I just found out about your story and I wanted to say that you are in my thoughts and prayers! Thank you for your brave strength and your thoughts throughout this. Just wanted to send hugs and thoughts your way!!

tucker's mom said...

just a blog hug and thoughts and prayers to you... Miracles are awaiting you ....

Nancy L. said...

my prayers to you and your family!

Kelly S. said...

Your doctor sounds amazing! So many awesome ones out there...it's time to start hearing about those, so thanks to you for sharing that with us! So glad you are having a good week. Saw your family photos at Jak's blog, so beautiful!

Kelly S. said...

Your doctor sounds amazing! So many awesome ones out there...it's time to start hearing about those, so thanks to you for sharing that with us! So glad you are having a good week. Saw your family photos at Jak's blog, so beautiful!

Christine said...

Hi Katie I have been reading your story & my prayers & good wishes come from the heart..as a B/Cancer survivor I know you will be strong for your lovely family..just keep on thinking you HAVE a future with ALL your loving family..
BTW I think you look SOOOO young with your hair short its stunning..
God Bless you & your family..XXXXXXXXXX

Hugs Christine XXXX

Terri Bills said...

Katie, I have been following your awesome projects for a while now on the clear dollar stamps blog. i logged on today and learned of what has been going on in your life this past month and I have read all of your blog posts. I will be praying and thinking of you.

crafty cricut said...

Don't know how I got here, just happened upon you like you do when your blogging !!! But didn't want to read & then run.
What a month you have had, but you have faced it with such a great strength & courage.
Take care of yourself & I hope you continue to feel positive as i'm sure this will help you with your treatment.
Regards Deborah x

Geny said...

Hi Katie,
I am so glad you had a good weekend and can enjoy a few days before the next treatment. I know I haven't posted a comment yet, I don't know what to say...but I did want to let you know that I think of you and how you are doing everyday. I shed tears everytime I read a post and I am also so inspired by you and your family. So anyhow, even though I don't comment all the time I am thinking of you and yours. Many hugs to you!
Geny Cassady
http://madisonavenue.typepad.com

Tammy said...

Hi Katie! You are in my prayers sweetie!!

christine said...

Sweetie when you or your hubby wants to check your chance of survival.. just re-read the mess. I sent to you on FB :) I was suppose to be dead 7 years ago according to the Stats of my cancer :)

All my prayers, love and hugs,
Christine Uporsky

Edith said...

Hi Katie, I think of you every day since I knew your story. You are a strong woman, but you may not even realize. I am glad your husband is a great support and that your children give you the strength to fight. I have seen in many blogs that there are lots of people concerned about you. That is very positive. I am sending you a big hug and please, do not stop fighting!

Oh! I think you look very cute with the new haircut:)

Chef Mama Lori said...

Katie, I love your doctor and I haven't met him. I love that he will not make you a statistic. My favorite commercial relating to cancer is where a lady says she told a new doctor she had 6 months to live. He replied, "I don't see an expiration date on you."

I think that is so cute about your hair! You may be one of the few who gets to keep some or even all of your hair!

I thought of you in the middle of the night. The antibiotic I've been taking has made me so nauseated that about 3 a.m. I was wishing I could call my friend Kathy & ask if I could buy a priceless Zofran from her! Of course I thought of you, too. Hope the next round will not be as rough & that the new meds will work.

Hope you are eating, too!

Deborah Frings said...

Katie - I came across your blog via Jak's blog - you've had a really tough time over the last few months. Even tougher now!! I think you're an amazingly strong women who has the support and love of not only her family and friends, but also of the crafting community on the net! I wish you well with your ongoing treat, and I will keep you in my thoughts and send you positive feelings.

Regards, Deborah xx

PS I do think the short haircut looks great!

ReneeK said...

Katie - You oncologist is a very wise man!

Claire said...

Another check on you, I'm glad you had a nice week-end. That doctor is a treasure,he is so right, we are all different.
Stay strong and don't pull your hair so much.....
Claire xxxxx

Tamara S said...

Hi Katie - I ran across your blog and read your story of what you having been going through these last few months and I want to offer you my prayers and best wishes. You are a beautiful strong woman and I love the short hair. : ) Here's to better days ahead. Tamara

Shannon said...

Hi, Katie--I just stumbled upon your blog, and I just wanted to give you a shout out--positive thoughts really helped me get through (although my illness was stage 1, molar pregnancy). You sound like a lovely person, and you have many fans all over the world--that's how I found your blog! I wish you all the very best in your fight!
Shannon

Graphicat said...

Ive just read your whole blog....
Wish I'd been here before, but I'll be here from now on.
Adding you to my prayer/good thoughts/positive energy list.... May life give you and your family what you need.
Hugs
Cheri

paula e. said...

best wishes in your journey with cancer - i work with 4 people who were recently diagnosed, as well as my sister in law this past year. a positive attitude is definitely a plus.. keeping you in my prayers.

Melanie said...

Katie, I am sending up prayers now for you and your family and that you and the chemo will beat this disease!
God bless!

Cat said...

My thoughts and prayers are with you, Katie. I admire your courage and positive attitude. Hugs and blessings

Sue from Oregon said...

Hey Katiebug, just stopping to say Hello today and give you a big hug! Wow, reading all your msgs sure shows how much you are loved by this community! HUGS.

Annette Bowes said...

Hello Katie, just popping by to say you and your beautiful family are in my thoughts and prayers. Just reading through your posts, you have such a lovely way of writing, sure sounds like you have wonderful Doctor! Keep positive, take careX:)

Dawn B. said...

Katie..you peeked.. :) Just know that you are in my thoughts and prayers each day.. You are so strong and we all love you...

Davi said...

Glad to hear your weekend was good Katie. Yup you are unique and statistics are just numbers to beat and Im sure you will :) Praying for ya

Anonymous said...

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Pony and Petey said...

Howdy! I linked to your blog through Laurie Wilson's... we go to the same church.

Just wanted to let you know how much I admire you and will be praying for you faithfully! Thanks for your honesty and openness...

Theresa Tyree said...

Hi Katie bug! Just checking in on you. I think Meredith should drive a half hour and give you a hug for me since I can't be there to give you one myself.

Stay strong and keep keepin' on. I love you, girl. You are always on my mind and in my prayers.

Laura Isham said...

Amazing Katie. That's my husband's and my nickname for you. I said to my husband, "There is this amazing girl named Katie who is fighting stomach cancer." Then I say a few days later, "Remember how I told you about that amazing girl Katie who is sharing her cancer fight on her blog?" Now my husband asks me, "How is Amazing Katie doing?" My husband gave you a nickname. That means you are part of our family, even though you have never been to our house.

Thanks for your posts, Amazing Katie.

Joan B said...

your doc sounds like one smart cookie. we all know folks who have beat the odds.

and you are right. why not you? my neighbor had a very small chance of surviving his colon cancer, which had spread. that was 10 years ago!!! and we could all share those stories.

and let us blogosphere know if there is anything you can think of that we can do for Kevin or your cutie pie kids!

Made by Mandy said...

I've just put a message on Facebook for you.

I have come across your blog this morning and you are one inspirational lady. It is fabulous that you are giving us a first hand account of what you are going through. I can assure you I will be with you every step of the way now I have found you and will be rooting for you and hope your treatment works.

With lots of love and strength, you've got a lot of supporters and cyber love xxx

Anonymous said...

I just read about your story at Jak's and wanted to drop by to meet you. Your story is so inspirational to us all. Thank you for sharing your story and your smile.
As bloggers we don't need to personally know someone to love them. You, are greatly loved.
Holding you in my heart and hugging you in my prayers

AShu93 said...

Glad you have such a great Dr. to help you! More prayers going to you today.

Tricia T said...

I'm so thankful you have a good team of doctors! And you make me laugh about pulling on your hair. :-) You definitely haven't lost your sense of humor. I'm so thankful that the "real" part of us can't be affected by cancer or chemo!

Kathy and Lucky said...

Katie, I have found your blog and story through Digital Delights and after reading through your posts, you are one amazing lady! My prayers are with you, I can tell you are very strong. I love your haircut by the way, I have always had short hair, it can actually be fun to style. Prayers with you and your family.

Jessica said...

Hey Katie, today I found your story and have read some of your older posts. First and formost, I will keep you in my prayers.
But I just wanted to share a little about my cancer experience, with my hair.It was rather long when I was diagnosed. Of course I asked if I would lose it. And they said most likely. One of the nurses told me to just get it cut short so it wouldn't be such a drastic change. But also that the hair that comes out could get tangled in the 'good' hair and I wouldn't want that. Still, it took me a while to decide to do it. I mean...did they know how long it took me to get it this long???
Anyway, one morning when I rolled over in bed and my hubby rolled too. Then he said "....Um... I think you left something... here....." Yes, it was a hunk of hair on my pillow! Thank heavens he had a sense of humor, because he made me laugh with his silliness. And we both said at the same time... "I guess it's time for THE haircut." It's been almost 20 years, and I still laugh about the hair thing. I didn't lose it all. But there were lots of bald spots all over my head. I had a wig from the cancer society, but I never used it. So when my chemo and radiation was finished, I gave it back to them, to give to someone else.
So it's always different for each person. But the same or similar story about the hair for everyone. So I hope you don't lose it all.
But... if you do... You still have that beautiful face! Cancer can't take that away. Nor can it take your sweet charming personality.
I'll be praying for you and your family.
Hugs, Jessica AKA Jazzyjess49

The Wogans said...

Katie...found your blog through Vickie at CTMH. I am a fellow CTMH'er....you are such an inspiration. I work for Gastroenterologists and you are right, this is EXTREMEMLY rare for someone so young...for someone period....I am praying for you every day. I wish you nothing but the best!!!

Meredith

Farida Rone said...

I just read your story and let me tell you that you are very brave and the simple fact that you take the time to communicate what you are experiencing is a proof of that. Like me, I know there are many girls that have known you thru scrapbooking pages and for all the prayers that have been requested. I hope you can continue writing and let us know about you. you're in my prayers. God is so good and he knows that your family needs you. Trust God.
Hugs,
Fraida

Germaine Ferrao -Lenn said...

Dear Katie,
Today via Jak;s blog, I came across your story! and have read through your trial! On New Year's Eve I went on to the other side, and now back recovering from the attack! So with all my heart, I am sending you light of all positive energy to Keep Strong and raise yourself to the Lord! He is great and will carry you and your family through this with all his love and passion! Hugs always! G

Deirdre said...

Katie, found your story through Waltzing Mouse Stamps (Claire Brennan and Sandie Dunne). Sending hugs to you and your family. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs from across the ocean - Deirdre

Ink, paper and BLING! said...

YOur words inspire me to live better. And when I say better, yes I mean all the normal things like eating and excersising; but the most important is to have a great attitude, and find humour where we can. I also have twins, and frankly most days they get the better of me. But I am going to be thankful and laugh at their antics today instead of the normal frustrating day.
Thanks for the reminder, and I think you should maybe ease up on the hair pulling; and I promise I will do the dame!
R

Monique Griffith said...

Hi Katie,
Sorry you're having to deal with this. I can relate, even if just a little. I'm 38 and fighting Stage 3 Inflammatory Breast Cancer, which has a poor survival rate. I hate being that tiny little statistical number that got it, but that does NOT define us or our fate. I'm enjoying shocking the doctors left and right, and plan to beat this monster head-on. I've got 2 days left of treatment, and was miraculously declared "No Evidence of Disease". The statistics can kiss my you-know-what. So hang in there and FIGHT with everything you've got!!!!!
Monique Griffith (Cricut Designer)

Meredith MacRitchie said...

Hi Katie!

I just wanted to let you know that I was happy to make my donation through Jak Heath yesterday, and I made a card for you - it's on my blog today... if I can't mail one to you, it's the next best thing, right? ;) But like I mentioned yesterday, if you ARE accepting mail, I'd love to send one the old fashioned way!

PS - I realize you have FAR more important things to do - I just wanted you to know I was thinking of you!

Sheri C said...

Katie, You are an inspiration to me in so many ways. Keep that positive attitude and know that you are in the hearts and prayers of many people.

Glenda J said...

You are loved in the crafting community as I have heard your name mentioned several places lately. You sound like you have a great attitude. I wish you strength and a speedy recovery. Best wishes always.

LaurieJ said...

Hi Katie,
I was saddened to hear the news of your diagnosis, but also heartened by your obvious determination to beat this. I greatly admire your spirit. Please know that you are in my thoughts daily and I will pray for the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Kindest regards,
Laurie

Anonymous said...

Katie I would just like to THANK YOU for the courage you have to share your story........I am a Christian and I admire your admittance of the journey you are on and I will DEFINATELY keep you in my prayers and pray the Lord keep His loving arms wrapped tightly around you!!! You are a beautiful lady and have a beautiful family......not only is your face beautiful but you have a beautiful spirit and it shines through your posts!!! I wish you well and a long life with your amazing supportive family!!!

XxJULESxX said...

Hi Katie I just read all the posts on your blog, i want to say that i am thinking about you and will pray for you and your family.
I dont really know what else to say,how can i know what your going through?.Bless you x

judy said...

It is so good that your doctor treats
you like a person not a statistic.
I am a cancer survivor and very
familiar with the wish to know what
the future holds or what goal to set
for ourselves. You are doing just
what you need to do--fighting this
with all your might. I very much
appreciate your candor and courage
as you share this journey. I keep
you and your family in my thoughts
and prayers.

Lisa in Texas said...

Hi Katie, found your story through another crafty blog, and wanted to let you know I am praying for you and your family. You go girl and beat this thing! Positive thoughts and energy coming your way from the great state of Texas!

ameklus said...

Embrace every day as a new day Katie. You may not know what to expect, but I am sure you now cherish everyday of life differently than before. On the days you are feeling good, enjoy every minute with your loved ones! It will give you the strength to keep going.

Hugs-

Annette

BethieJ said...

Katie your in my thoughts and prayers! I am not sure where you get your treatment.. My mom works at the hospital in B'ham.. if your there.. I will send her in to be SURE they are taking GREAT care of you! :) Sounds like they are! :)
Just wanted you to know I am thinking of you and your family!
((hugs))

carole (TruCarMa) said...

Hi, Katie --

Just catching up after a couple of weeks away from your blog. Your strength humbles me, and your story moves me greatly. Blessings and hugs from Oklahoma. :)

Kim H. said...

Hi Katie... I just came across your blog tonight and I wanted to tell you that my heart and prayers are with you. God bless you and your family. Kim (Cincinnati Ohio)

Curt in Indy said...

Hey Katie! Visiting today to see what's going on with your sweet heart. Your posts are such an inspiration and this one was no exception. As always, I'm sending my prayers, thoughts, and hugs to you and to Kevin. What a wonderful husband you have. You are so fortunate to have him. I'm so proud of him. Remember too, you are not a statistic; you are a wonderful human being. Each person is so different, and it's how they approach their lot in life that determines how they fare. Your oncologist reminds me of the woman in the commercials for the Cancer Centers of America. She says "When I asked the doctor how long I had, he said "Peggy, during all the tests we did on you, at no time did I see an expiration date on the bottom of your foot." So keep that in mind kiddo. Stay strong, keep up the good fight! Hugs to you and your beautiful family. Best, Curt

Candy F. said...

Hey Girlie! You know it always makes my day when you post or tell me that you are feeling good. By the way, I LOVE your doctor for realizing that you are unique and special and not just another statistic. Fingers crossed on the chemo because you know we have an important date on Friday night and I would hate for you to stand me up!

Juliep said...

Hi Katie,
I stumbled across your blog and couldn't help but be moved by your story. I find myself relating to so many things that you have written in your blog. The questions that you have about your faith. I guess you can say that is something that I also never really thought about. It wasn't until this past September that my 23 year old daughter was killed in a car accident. She was my only child and I had so many questions. I have realized that for me, I do have to believe that there is a higher power up there and that someday I'll see her again. So, with that being said, My thoughts and prayers are certainly with you and your family as you travel this journey.

My girlfriend was diagnosed last year with Stage 4 breast cancer. She had a double Mastectomy but she never lost her hair and she has just recently been told that the cancer is gone. I do believe that miracles can happen and pray that it does for you. Hugs!!!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

I am inspired by your story that has unfurled so far. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.

Trina Kuriger said...

Hi Katie
I just wanted to stop by and say that I, like so many others, am praying for you. Hang in there and keep fighting!
Trina (mnfroggie)

Anonymous said...

Hi Katie! Believe that you will beat this. So many people are praying for you. It is nice to know you are having a good day. Stay positive and strong.
Dadatch101

julie said...

miracles do happen. when i was diagnosed with am aggressive form of breast cancer i was told i probably only had six months left. that was 20 years ago. it was a long, hard fight through a year of treatments but i never doubted that i would make it. your attitude is good. being able to talk about what is going on and sharing it with others helps. my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
by the way, if you are getting a chemo drug that causes hair to fall out, mine took about 3 weeks to start coming out and then it came out rapidly. i had my head shaved the second day. looked and felt better than the patches of hair. and, oh my, the crazy hats you can get by with wearing...

kathlee said...

Katie please take statistics with a grain of salt. I did the very same thing when I was new diagnosed with Renal Cell Carcinoma. There was a 40% chance I would be here this past Christmas...that means a 60% chance I would not. I beat the odds and I am well.Prayers to you and please do not fill your sweet mind with negativity. You need to save that energy to "fight like a girl"!
{{hugs}}
Kathie

SHERRY said...

MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. I HAVE BEEN GOING TO THE CANCER TREATMENT CENTER WITH MY BEST FRIEND. i HAVE LEARNED ALOT AND ONE THING I HAVE LEARNED IS YOU NEED TO START THE NAUSEA MEDS ASAP...SHE WOULD WAIT AND BY THEN IT WAS TO LATE. THEY TOLD HER NUMEROUS TIMES NOT TO WAIT AND FINALLY IT SANK IN AND SHE HAS BEEN MUCH BETTER SINCE. SHE IS NOW ABLE TO EAT AGAIN WITHOUT BEING SICK. GOOD LUCK AND KEEP UP THE FIGHT! YOU CAN BEAT THIS!

Gina Wrona said...

Katie,

Curt's blog sent me over to you and just wanted to send you a hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuggggggggggggggggggg.

Hugs,
Gina

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