Hello Friends, How are you? Today I have a quick card created with this stamp set that’s so enjoyable to stamp and layer up. I also have a special request.
The special request is to send a card to a very special lady. Time is pretty critical since she’s in hospice care now. 🙁 If interested more details below. With a very heavy heart I updated this post at the bottom but, felt it was important to keep the rest of it as is.
A few days ago my very special niece called me up desperate to help her friends mother. My niece said to me something like… you had breast cancer so maybe you can write about it on your blog and ask for cards. I love her dearly and thought it was a good idea except I am not a good writer and not big on sharing personal stuff lol. So I will do my best in a nut shell for my niece. Fortunately it’s been 10 years since my bout with breast cancer and I can tear up thinking of that phone call.(I just turned 43) Yes my doctor told me over the phone! I was with my daughter who was 10 at the time and we were on the way to the dentist. You can imagine I lost it in the dentist office & was lucky that I really like the dentist. When they were doing the needle biopsy I knew I had cancer cause it took forever & it was extremely painful …I just knew but, hearing it was another story. With that said I knew right away the course of treatment that I wanted and just had to find the doctor to support that decision. 3 out of the 4 doctors wanted to do a lumpectomy and really pushed for it.I knew that I wanted a bi-lateral mastectomy with reconstruction and there was no question in my mind. My dear Mother’s side of the family has a long history of breast cancer and we lost many beautiful women so there was no question in my mind what my choice was. Looking back I never doubted my choice and I am happier because of it.(in case you are wondering my boobs are not pretty and they are heavy lumps) In my case because of the mastectomy I didn’t need radiation, chemotherapy or tamoxifen so I think I benefited greatly in that way. I never think of myself as a survivor because in a way that’s buying into that cancer thing and that’s not my thing. BUT I know being a survivor is a great thing for many people and it’s a huge celebration for sure!! I hope I don’t offend anyone in any way. So that’s my story and this is what brings me to my request for cards.
My niece has a huge heart is trying desperately to find a way to bring a little smile to her friends mom Jackie. I know very little about Jackie’s story except that her cancer started with breast cancer and now it’s in her liver & they stopped all treatment. She’s in hospice care so if you have an extra card and want to send some cheer it would be greatly appreciated. (the sooner the better..like asap) I don’t want to take the time to collect cards and mail them all at once.
If you want to send a card please leave a comment on my blog that you want to send a card I will email you the address etc. I think that covers everything? Thanks for letting me share a little of myself and thanks for considering sending a card to this beautiful woman. Big hugs, Kathy
UPDATE: It’s very hard to type when you hear such wretched news. Jackie died today…a few hours ago? Please pray for her spirit and her family. If you want to send a card to her daughter and her siblings that would be much appreciated. So many of you left beautiful comments on my blog today and thanks for warming my heart all day long!!! I wanted to share this one in particular. Connie said, “If anyone takes anything away from this, be vigilant – know your own body and be alert for any signs and get regular checkups – and especially love those around you, and be grateful for every day!”
DAY 20. Flower Power Dads Day
paper smooches
try an orange wash
Kathy, you’re a trouper and a star. A star. I would like to send a card, although being in the UK, I don’t know if it will get there in time. I lost an aunt to cancer of the everywhere, and a friend to breast cancer. She was 46 and like you had gone down the route of bilateral mastectomy. It didn’t work for her sadly, but I’m glad it did for you. A superstar, Kathy, you’re a superstar! Send me the address in any case and I will try to get it off asap. Xx
Thanks so much Ruth you are a love. I will email you now 🙂
Kathy, I’m so sorry, I shall send my card in any case. It will at least serve to remind her family that people were thinking of her to the last. Sending you a hug too. Xxxxxx
Glad you said this Ruth and I have been thinking about it all night. You are so correct!!! Thanks for the hugs and hugs back to you 🙂
Kathy, it takes a lot of courage to share something so personal. 🙂 I would love to send Jackie a card.
Pai
pcmjunk@yahoo.com
Thanks Pai …. I was like you want me to what. It was harder than I thought. I will email you now 🙂
Kathy, I would like to send a card to Jackie. Thank you for sharing your story, time, and talent every day. I follow your blog faithfully and admire your talent and kindness. God bless you always.
Thanks Jo Ann I am blessed to have such beautiful followers with huge hearts like YOU. I will email you now 🙂
Kathy, saw your post on Instagram and came here to read your story. Thank you for sharing; I know so many women who will understand and benefit by it – including myself. Sounds to me like you listened to your heart and definitely made the right decision for yourself. And I would love to send a card so please email me the address and I will get it out ASAP. You are a gem and a joy!
Awww Barbara thanks for coming all the way over from IG and leaving me some love here. I will email you now 🙂
I’d like to send her a card. I lost my paternal grandmother to ovarian cancer just after I was born and my maternal grandmother had breast cancer about 20 years ago (thankfully, she’s a fighter and she beat it!). It’s the small things that can help in a time like this and I’d like to add my small thing to the list. I’m so glad that your treatment worked for you and that you’re still here making all of us smile with your creativity and beautiful heart.
Thanks for adding your “small” thing to the list even tho I think it’s a big thing. Three cheers for your grandmother! So happy to know that I make you smile:) Emailing you now
Thank you for sharing your story Kathy, i know it mustve been really hard. I’ll send a card as soon as I get your email. Xoxo
Thanks Nicole it was more emotional than I thought lol. Just emailed you 🙂
Hello Kathy, I would love to send a card. Thank you so much for sharing your story and for the kindness you are showing!
Thanks so much Shelley I will email you now 🙂
I’ll send a card! I’m not sure we currently have an appropriate one made up in our catalog but I was just going through sentiment stamps last evening and thought they’d make pretty cards.
This is a cause close to my heart. My mother in law is a survivor and have have personally had far too many family members go through the Hospice programs tolet an opportunity to pay it back simy slip by.
You are the best Nate emailing you now 🙂 Three cheers for your mother in law!
I will be happy to send her a card. Please email her address
Donna
Thanks Donna I will email you 🙂
Hi Kathy,
a very brave post for you! I have a friend who just did the same as you, in fact she is still going through the reconstructive part. Another friend did the same thing 10+ years ago and it’s now been 4 years since my Mom went through her breast cancer treatments. I totally will send a card out today!
Hi Nancy, thanks so much and a big sorry that mom 🙁 and your friend are dealing with this shit. I just emailed you 🙂
I will send one. Thanks for sharing your personal story. And your talents.
Thanks so much Jody. I just emailed you 🙂
I will send her one too, mine will come from Spain let’s try it!
Thanks Mar just emailed you. 🙂
Don’t see it, I even look in the spam folder and can’t find it either.
Maybe I wrote it wrong
Thanks
Hi Mar, I see it now thanks for your persistence 🙂
As on oncology nurse I have seen this far too many times. I already have the card signed and ready to go. This is so kind of you to share your story as well Kathy.
Just emailed you. I can’t imagine being an oncology nurse but, the patients are lucky to have such a loving nurse. 🙂
Thanks Tammy the world needs more oncology nurses like you. I emailed you a bit ago 🙂
Thank you for sharing your story and for giving us a chance to share some love. So glad you’re ok! You don’t have to send me a card, but please send me the address. Thanks! 🙂
Thanks so much Farida!! I just emailed you and thanks for the love:) nothing better
Hello Kathy! Thank you for sharing your story with us. I also had breast cancer 10 years ago but I did the lumpectomy route because there was no history in my family. I would love to send this gal a card. I’ve already picked it and am ready to address it.
Thank you for sharing Robin. There are to many of us. I just emailed you and thanks for the speedy snail mail.
I would like to send a card, I hope it will brighten her day.
Hi Joy, I surely hop so and I would think so. Thanks so much. Emailing you now 🙂
You told your story bravely and honestly…..nothing wrong with that at all! I’m so glad to hear you are cancer-free. Mastectomy would be my choice in that situation as well. I have the perfect card ready to mail, and I just may be able to get it out today (mailman hasn’t come yet….)
Thanks Kimberly for your loving words. I just emailed you but, I mistakenly said that I would add you to the “try to send card to list” but, I got that part mixed up sorry 🙁 thanks again 🙂
Oh Kathy. Thank you for sharing your story. You are like me. Very personal with your personal life and whom you share it with… I appreciate you sharing the story and for sending out this request. I would love to send her a card! Love the heart your niece has. Cancer sucks! I am glad you prevailed. Ironically, I have my first mammogram scheduled soon, thank goodness!
Such a youngin you are Laurel. Thanks for your loving words and good luck with that mammogram. I just emailed you 🙂
Dear Kathy,
My daughter and I would happily send cards. My mother died 25 years ago from the same, when I was 23. I appreciate your story because I applaud your choice. My mother would have been spared a lot if she could have just convinced the Dr to do the biopsy 18 months earlier when she asked him to. I believe we should push for our informed choices. Thank you for your example.
Hi Amye, thanks for sharing your story. If only doctors would trust patients intuition more often and sorry you don’t have a mother because of that.:( I am going to email you right now . Many hugs:)
Your story is important. I would be honored to send a card. Thank you.
Thanks for saying that Tina. I will email you now 🙂
How could you possibly think that anybody could be offended by your post? We are sisters in every women’s issues battle that we fight against, especially cancer! Any woman worth her salt will stand alongside another sister and cheer them on, or hold them in their heart and cry along with them. I have admired you since I met you last year and admire your courage and strength even more as I read about your journey with this crappy (insert less appropriate word here) disease. I have a card ready to go when you send me the details. Hugs!
…and please…no need to send me a card!
Hi Jo Ann, So beautifully spoken and love what said especially about any woman worth her salt. So true…what was I thinking! I stand corrected..not that you were correcting me 🙂 Thanks for the love and I just emailed you 🙂
Big, big hugs, my friend. I’ll send a card—but you send her the one you would have sent to me.
You are a sweetheart Sandy thanks!!
Kathy I will happily send a card. My mum had Cancer last year, she’s cancer free now, but neither of us will forget the random acts of kindness that helped our family through a rough time. Brave of you to talk about your experience and how wonderful is your niece. Cx
Claire oh my sorry to hear that your mom had to deal with that cancer shit but, glad shes free of it now. I am emailing you right now 🙂
i would be glad to send a card Kathy. You’re brave to share your story. So glad you’re with us today to enjoy.
Thanks Maggie I really appreciate that and it’s so touching. Emailing you now 🙂
Your niece has a big heart and you’re a peach for helping her out! I’d love to send a card!
Thanks Chark!! She has a huge heart and thanks for being the peach. Emailing you now 🙂
Kathy , you are a fighter ( as you don’t like to be called a survivor ) to go thro such a thing . It’s sweet of you and your niece to do this . I would love to send a card ASAP . Is there any particular sentiment needed and should I send a plain card or have it filled inside ? This is Vidya.
lol Vidya I like the sound of fighter! Thank You! Hummmm the sentiment might just “talk to you” as you look through yours? Do what you feel is best 🙂 Emailing you in a minute.
Kathy, I too am a member of the sisterhood no one asks to join. I was diagnosed 4 years ago at the age of 39. I underwent chemo, then a bilateral mastectomy, then radiation and finally reconstruction. It’s a long (rotten) road! Thankfully, I’m doing well and really looking forward to that 5th anniversary/milestone.
When I was going through my treatments, the DT I was on was so fantastic. I had happy mail of the handmade kind multiple times each week. They did things for my kids (who were Pre-K & 1st grade). It is something I’ll never forget.
Shoot me an email with the address of your niece’s friend. I’ll happily send out a card to her.
Many Hugs,
Cammy
Cammy oh my!!! Sorry you are in the sisterhood and happy you have 5 years behind you. That’s a super huge celebration!! Talk about warrior and fighter that is YOU. Emailing you now and thanks so much for sharing your story. Hugs:)
Kathy, I applaud you for sharing your story. I’m sure it was tough, but you told it well! I would love to send a card, if you can e-mail me the address. Thanks! ~ Andrea
Thanks Andrea that means a lot 🙂 Emailing you now
Thanks for sharing your story Kathy. Thanks too for sharing your amazing talent! I would love to send a card. Please email me the information.
Thanks Laura!!! You are super sweet. I just emailed you 🙂
Hi Kathy!
Saw your post on the instagram so read the blog as soon as I came home. Your story really increased your respect in my eyes. Congratulations on your decision and Thank you for doing what you are doing. You are even bigger of an inspiration now. I would definitely like to send a card to her. God knows she need it at this stage of her life.
Lots of love and hugs!
Hi Bia, Thanks for crossing over from IG lol and thanks for the kind words 🙂 Sending an email now
Sending thoughts and prayers. Please send along her address and I will put a card in the mail asap.
Awesome Heather thanks so much 🙂
Kathy, besides a love of coloring, this is something else we have in common. Thank you for sharing your story. So glad you are 10 years post-surgery and reconstruction. I learned in May 2011 that I had breast cancer – turned out to actually be bilateral breast cancer – and then learned that I also have ovarian cancer. All were primary tumors (none were metastasized). I am grateful for the breast cancer because it literally saved my life – I had no idea I had ovarian cancer, and there is no screening for it, so 75% of diagnoses are made when the patient is already stage 3. Because we found it early, I was only stage 1. After going through 2 surgeries, 2 different rounds of chemo, and radiation at Georgetown, the excellent folks there helped get me to the “other side” of over a year of treatments. So if anyone takes anything away from this, be vigilant – know your own body and be alert for any signs and get regular checkups – and especially love those around you, and be grateful for every day!
It would be a privilege to be able to send a card, Kathy. My email address is beltwaybutterfly@yahoo.com
OH fudge Connie! emailing you right now 🙂 and a huge thanks for sharing your here and yes the take away I repeat is BE VIGILANT AND GET THOUSE REGULAR CHECK UPS AND KNOW YOUR BODY.
I would love to send a card. As an oncology nurse these stories exist daily in my book and every small thing counts to brighten someone’s journey. In our clinic we use the word Conqueror! We have tons of conquerors that fight and kick cancer in the rear. Hugs to you for being a conquerer!!
Niki I love the sound of that!! A Conquerer!! thank you! Emailing you now 🙂
Kathy, I will send a card. I’m sure it isn’t easy to bring up old memories. Sending you hugs too.
Thanks Jean you are a sweetheart. Emailing you now 🙂
Just read the update. I am so very sorry.
Thanks Jean
This was a tough thing to share and you did it beautifully. The best part is that you’re pleased with your decision and took the bull by the horns to control your life. Good going, girl. I would be honored to send a card to Jackie’s mom. Just a little cheer will, hopefully, let her know someone cares.
Thanks Conil that means a lot! A little cheer goes a LONG way. Emailing you now 🙂
I appreciate you sharing your story.– that had to be hard!! I’m out of town through Tues, so I’m not near my cards…but will never the less keep your niece and her friend & family in prayer!!
Thanks Kelly prayers are always welcome. Enjoy your time away 🙂
My heart is breaking right now! My younger brother has been dealing with heart and kidney failure for the past 2+ years, so I know how helpless one can feel when someone around you is suffering. I would be honored to send a card! And thank you for sharing your story!
I would still like to send a card to her family.
Thanks Denise emailing you in a few
Awesome thanks Denise…emailing you now
Hi Kathy, what a wonderful gesture of sending compassion. I will send her a card.
Thanks so much Colleen. Just emailed you
I will certainly send Jackie’s family a sympathy card. I’m sure she was a loved lady.
Thanks Deena sending u the info now. 🙂
So heartbreaking, but also so glad you are healthy today! My mom has cancer and has been through so much for many years. I’m grateful she is still here with me, but I know it has not been easy for her. I would love to send a card to the family <3
Thanks Kara but, so sorry to hear about your mom….heartbreaking that she has been through so much for years. Emailing you now
Prayers for the family and hugs for you! I would love to send the family a card.
Hi Jung! Prayers…cards and hugs are just what the doctor ordered. Emailing you now
I ALWAYS know that you are SUPER special…well, you truly are–rise up to the challenge and share your BC story. My heart aches after reading the last part of this post. I would love to send Jackie’s family a card. They are going through a super difficult time. I can’t even imagine…HUGS!
Awww thanks BC!!! I know what you mean I am so achy 🙁 will email you info now.
Kathy,
I just got home after Happy Hour after work with friends and checked in for an update. SOOOO sorry to learn of Jackie’s passing. I will still send a card to Gallie and her family.
Hugs.
Thanks for checking back Connie…you must have had a feeling. I am sure your card will bring lots of comfort. hugs
Such heart wrenching news! Sending hugs & prayers to you, your niece & her friend’s family. Thanks for sharing your story. You are such an inspiration with a big, humongous heart of gold…liquid gold:) Love you.
lol that liquid gold…should we tell everyone that the liquid gold is homemade chicken stock!!! Thanks for always making me laugh Laura Fredora!! xxoo
You are such a kind person and such a sad story too sorry for your loss.
Thanks Julye
Hi Kathy………how timely is this post. First – my condolences. I too am 43 and was just diagnosed. I actually go on Monday for my lumpectomy and possible node removal. Thankfully my dx was found early so I should be on a short course of treatment (finger’s crossed) and get back to ‘normal’ life ASAP. I don’t have trouble with the word ‘survivor’ but I also don’t want this dx to define me – so I understand your sentiment’s about ‘survivor’. So happy that you never looked back on your decision and I know I’ll will be just fine as well! Once again – thinking of Jackie’s family during this sad time.
Oh Maria!!!! Big hugs to you!!!!!! Emailing you right now
So sorry for your niece and her friend’s family. I will keep them in my
thoughts and prayers.
Thanks Carol keep them coming 🙂
Thank you for sharing your personal story, Kathy. My mom went through something similar. Takes tons of courage to endure and even more to talk about. My mom is okay now and we are ever vigilant for her and as my dad is going through chemo now it’s just another struggle. We fight each battle one day at a time. If you think Jackie’s family could use more cards, please send me the address and I’ll round up a few of my posse and send some love.
Hi Michelle, Thank you and thanks for sharing yours. Bummer to hear that your dad is dealing with Chemo and hopefully you mom and dad can put all of this cancer stuff behind them and never have to look back. Big hugs and emailing you now.
Oh no! I saw your instagram post yesterday and had meant to check your blog to read. I’m so sorry to hear about this update! Do you think the family would like cards? Or is it better to let them mourn privately?
Hi Lisa, I think a card will be a great thing and I just emailed you. Thanks 🙂
Hi Kathy, I Thank you for sharing such a personal story with us, I don’t know how you did it, You always amaze me,you are such a beautiful person inside and outside. I was in tears as I read your story, I don’t think you relieze how many lives you truly touch on a daily basis and you have done it again by sharing this with us, almost everyone knows someone who has been touched by Breast cancer, with me, it was my Mom, she did as you did and had the mastectomy, she is 81 now and that was 23 yrs ago and NO problems since she had the mastectomy, she is healthier than me !!! You so made the right choice girl and you rock !!!! ALSO, I would LOVE to send a card to the family !!!!
Hi Tracey, Thanks! I remember blinking when my niece asked me like … you want me to what lol. It was a big life lesson for me to open up and now that I see how beneficial that can be. I am lucky to have such beautiful, caring and loving women that frequent my blog. I need to have a party for you all 🙂 to show my appreciation! Thanks for sharing the story about your mom and that’s music to my ears knowing that she’s 81 and kicking! Will email you now 🙂
Kathy, as I read all of the comments from everyone I realize what a favor you have done both to your niece and to Jackie’s family. In addition, you have provided us with a venue to tell our stories and share hope with others. Thank you for that and for your story also. I had breast cancer two years ago and recently underwent surgery for an unrelated uterine cancer. I still consider myself blessed as it could have been much worse. I celebrated my 70th birthday yesterday and hope for many more. Thank you again.
Hi Mary, Sorry that you had to deal with the big C but, glad that you are fighting the good fight and feel blessed. A very Belated Happy Birthday to you. 70 years young and a beautiful soul. I agree that this post has taught me that opening up can only bring good and positive things. Thank you and big hugs
My deepest condolences to your niece’s friend and her family. Your post was incredibly touching as my mother was diagnosed with leukemia about 10 years ago. The chemo and relapses took a toll, but I’m so thankful she made it through and is cancer free. Your such an incredibly brave and inspiring person and thank you for sharing your story! I would love to send a card if you could just please let me know where to mail it. ❤️
Thanks sooo much Yukari and so happy to know that your moms leukemia is behind her. Emailing you now.
Oh Kath! You were so sweet for trying and it’s so hard when someone looses the fight. Prayers and good thoughts to your nieces friends family and you and your niece as well. Thank you for sharing your story.
Thanks Sharna I believe in the power of prayer so the more praying the better 🙂
Such a moving post, Kathy. My mom made it through a diagnosis and so I read each and every breast cancer story knowing a little of what it feels like. So sorry to hear that this lady didn’t make it and I’ll be keeping her family in my thoughts, Jo x
Thanks Jo and sorry to hear about you mom. Emailing you now
Unfortunately Kathy, this kind of thing happens all too often to people we know and love. I’m glad that you made it through your ordeal, but sorry to hear about your niece’s friends mother. Make every day count by being with those you love and love you.
Thanks Judy and I totally agree about making EVERY DAY COUNT. 🙂
Hi Kathy: I have been following your work for a while and have loved the inspiration. Having a nursing background I have seen many cases of cancer but it has not prepared me to deal with this with my best friend. She goes for a biopsy Wed. And the doctor pretty much laid it out what she has is most likely malignant.
Thank you SO much for sharing your story!! It is so important to know brave people like you who have been down such a difficult path and are leading productive and creative lives. I would be happy to send a card to this family and let them know there are folks thinking and praying for them. Julie L
Hi Julie, Oh my… sorry that you have to experience this with someone you love..your friend. It really puts things in perspective. One thing I always say is that it’s better to have a friend for a nurse than a doctor. I am sure you will help her navigate this stuff and give her great comfort coming from a different perspective. Emailing you now.
Kathy, I just read this blog post and it just broke my heart! I can’t stop crying, thinking about the Jackie’s family.
Please email me an address where I can send a card to.
And Kathy, you are a beautiful brave woman! I admire your strength and courage. I’m sending you big hugs, and prayers to Jackie’s family.
Hugs,
Jenny @skycookiemom
Thanks Jenny for the love, tears and prayers it’s all appreciated. Emailing u now
I’m so sorry to hear this news, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I too am a cancer patient. In March of 2014, my brother died of liver cancer. I was devistated as we were very close all our lives, he was 59 when he died. 3 months after, I was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer and have been fighting it ever since. At first, I wanted to tell the people that told me to keep a positive attitude to stick it but now I know they were all so right. It really does matter and makes a big difference. Anyway, we must all enjoy and embrace life as it is very precious! Love to you all!
OH S#*P Daphne!! I will email you but, if someone is reading this the take away is and A POSITIVE ATTITUDE REALLY DOES MATTER AND MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE. Thanks for sharing your heart breaking story and proud of you for the positive attitude and the fight you are putting up. You will win! Hugs
So sorry for this late comment, it was busy at work and just now able to read the entire post. I’m so moved to also make a card for your Niece what a dear she is to include your help in inlisting in this way of lifting up her friends family. I would like to send a Sympathy card to the family, and a card for your niece if you don’t mind sharing her age so I can try and make one appropriate! Very proud of your shares today, difficult to do but we all struggle with similar battles and sharing is a way of caring right! God Bless you! Hugs from me in Vermont!
Oh no apologies necessary Patti. Thanks for thinking of my niece too I know that she would really appreciate a card and she knows what goes into them besides love lol. Emailing you now 🙂
I am so glad to hear that you conquered cancer, but so sorry to hear of the loss of this dear lady. I have not had breast cancer. I have had several needle aspirations with the initial results of one being pre-cancerous. Until you are a recipient of the news you just don’t know what your reaction will be. It turned out to be nothing and I am grateful.b I admire those women who stand up to it and beat it.
I would love to send the family a card. How do we get the address.
Thanks,
April
Hi April!! So happy to hear that the needle aspirations turned out good. Still the waiting is the worst part almost. I will email you now 🙂
Kathy, I am so sorry to hear about the trials of your having cancer & the fact that your nieces friends’ mother passed away, all too soon. You are such a good Aunt to your niece.
Life IS short! Super Santa Card!!!! 😉
Hey, Kathy. I’m really sorry to read about Jackie. I’d be happy to send a card. No need to reply to this e-mail. I know you’re busy. Please send the address and I’ll pop a card in the mail on Monday. Please let me know if it should be directed to Jackie’s daughter or the whole family. You made a smart decision years ago and I know that you are thankful that it worked and your body didn’t have to go through the chemo and other treatments. Cancer is so horrid. My daughter’s best friend’s Mom has cancer and is in Mexico trying anything she can to help herself. I’m scared that all she’s getting is a song and dance and giving up money that they don’t have. The U.S. actually has a drug they can give her but it’s not FDA approved. It’s suppose to have good results. They wanted her to do it in a clinical group and no one would know who got the placebos. Who has 3 months to wait to see if something is going to work like that? Oh how frustrating.
oh no. such terrible news. I’m so sorry. I’d like to send a card. 🙁 hugs and prayers.
I didn’t realize that you had cancer. I have beaten in 4 times and am so glad when I see others writing their stories!! We need to hear them to remind us to be vigilant in knowing our bodies and what is normal for us.
I was 13 the first time my doctor told me I had cancer and we were told that even with treatment I would probably not make it. I told the doctor to do a very naughty thing to himself and told him I still had things I was going to do. Fast forward to 3 more bouts and lots of other things happening in the next 33 years.
Last night we found out that a 17 year old neighbor boy who went to the hospital with back pain was told that he has less than a month to live. Cancer is such a nasty disease that I hope is beaten in my lifetime!
I will get a card out to your daughter’s friends family n Monday.
Hugs and Everyone, please remember to check your ta-tas as my son says!
Sorry, to hear of your niece’s friends loss. Seems everyone knows someone and aunt, or a friend that has to go thru this. Will send card to the family and your niece too email me address.
I’d love to send the family a card. I hurt for them – how devastating. My “bestie” had a BLM herself 3 years ago. We were all so worried – I can’t imagine what this family is going through. God bless,
Mandy
Kathy,
You know I just lost my Mom, and she battled breast cancer this past Thanksgiving through Christmas. If she were still here she would be the first one sending a card and I would be honored to do it in her memory.
Thanks for being brave and sharing your story, we are so blessed to have you with us still.
Love and prayers,
Maureen
My eyes are so full of tears from this post!! I am speechless!!! I am in awe of you and the beauty you create in the world – I am so grateful that you are a survivor!! I have had 3 friends go through this – I know what kind of strength it takes!! So sorry for the loss of this dear lady!! Prayers and hugs being sent you way and the family’s way!!
Kathy,
I’m sure that was a very hard post to write. Both the first time and then the very sad update. But having just gone through my own painful breast cancer scare (it turned out to be fine in the end) I know it’s important to remind people to listen to their own bodies and be pro-active. You knew what was right for you and stuck to your guns, good for you! I would be honored to send a card to both your niece, and to her friend. Thanks for all you do…the coloring challenges and now this.
Very sad. You are brave to tell your story. I am glad you made the decision you made and didn’t have to go through the rest of that usual treatment. Cancer sucks. So sorry for the loss of your friend.
Kathy I was heart wrenched to read this today and I too wanted to share a story of warning…My mom had a mammogram every other year and we got a letter from the Canadian BC Cancer Agency telling us that a report and been sent to our family doctor and to follow up to get the results. Usually this letter says ‘Everything was fine’ so we knew before we even called upon the doctor that there may be something wrong.
The family doctor did a breast exam, said he couldn’t feel anything and send Mom for an ultrasound right away. A week or so later the Doctor called and said that they couldn’t find what the mammogram had hit on so to consider it an anomaly and get on with living. He’s the doctor, he went to medical school so why wouldn’t we believe him?!?!
That was in the fall of 2010, by April of 2011 Mom came to me and we could both feel the lump! I rushed her right down to the clinic and our family doctor said it was fine, it didn’t involve breast tissue not to panic. Ok but now my hair is standing on end and I beg him to do another ultrasound, he refuses and said I was being silly & upsetting her…I reminded him that her Mother, my Grandmother had breast cancer at 49 he finally relented and said he would send in the request for a ‘non emergency’ ultrasound but it could take up to 6 weeks.
Finally in the 6th week of waiting I called and he had NEVER sent in the request! The radiology told me to get my Mom to the doctor, I rushed her down, our family doctor was away so they had a duty doctor see her and the moment he touched her breast his face changed and I knew…
Mom was sent to the hospital for an ultrasound and the radiologist showed us that on that previous ultrasound where they couldn’t find the ‘mammogram’s lump, they had specifically told our family doctor to have her sent to another city where they specialize in micro biopsy and cancer is their specialty, but that message was never told to us, the report never saw the light of day apparently….
Mom died October 23rd, 2012.
Get your mammograms! If you have a first degree relative who has had breast cancer (mother, father, sister, brother, child) then you should have them annually! What was so sad is that the mammogram found it almost 2 years before it killed her!
Ask for copies of all reports generated from your medical care! They belong to you and you have the right to read them and make copies for yourself!
Don’t trust anyone just because they have a medical diploma! You are your best fighting chance to find it early, get it treated and live far beyond it’s entry into your life!
I have made it my mission to share my Mom’s story and it has already saved the life of a dear friend and I hope her story and those like your survival Kathy will help others to beat it too!
Many Blessings,
Melitta
I forgot to mention…we filled a report with the college of physicians & surgeons and our family doctor lost his license to practice medicine! If you are the victim of a doctors negligence than make a complaint as it only took 3 to get his ‘License to Kill’ revoked!
Oh my goodness! What a terrible ordeal! I’m proud of you for standing up to that so called “Doctor”. He obviously skipped a few classes in med school! My thoughts are with you.
when I get overwhelmed from missing my brother (my crib mate) who died of liver cancer, I remind myself, there is no pain where he is now.
Love to you and your family.
🙂 Daphne, a fellow crafter
Oh no Daphne was he your twin.. sorry but, I like the reminder to yourself? That is a great reminder and something nice to write in a card. It’s always hard to find the right words but, I like this. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Three of my best friends have had breast cancer. One is 5 years free, one is fighting for the third time. My other friend made the choice to have a bilateral mastectomy. She is day three post op. Thanks for sharing your fight. We need to speak about it. Prayers to Jackie’s friends and family.
Thanks for sharing Cynthia …three friends oh my! Good luck to your friend that is day 3. I would love to send her a card. Will mail you. 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing a very personal piece of yourself! It makes you so much more “three dimensional”! And what a blessing to have a niece with such a huge heart! I am sorry for her friend’s loss. My best friend battled her cancer to her last breath, literally. But because she was such a scrapper, she made it to the 5 year mark even though her prognosis was 17 months at best at the time of diagnosis. I applaud you for your courage in making the decision you did. In a culture where our values are upside down, you chose LIFE!
Thanks Bev you are so kind. You are right that I am so fortunate to have such a lovely niece with a huge heart. Your friend is so inspiring and knowing that she beat so many odds …what a fighter she is. Thanks for sharing 🙂
It is so important to share as you did just did! I too have had breast cancer! The first time I was 41 with two smaller children! I had a lumpectomy and radiation. Three years later, after a mammogram, I was told I had cancer again! I lost it believing this would the end. That was in 1997! I had a mastectomy ( reconstruction was not routinely offered then). Most people never notice that I only have breast and have now gone for almost 20 years cancer free. Mammograms do save lives! I have never found them to be painful, etc. It is a must for every woman!!!! Early detection is key! I am so sorry your niece’s friend’s loss.
Thanks for sharing your story Jean especially since you have been cancer free for 20 years!! That’s such happy news!!! GET YOUR MAMMOGRAMS LADIES….please 🙂
Oh Kathy I didn’t know this…
so sorry about everything so sad …..
You are an AMAZING Lady and I ADORE you….So Sad to see this News that she passed. A Great Reminder for me to make an Appointment. Love you….XOXOXO
Thanks Kelly!!! GET IN THERE AND MAKE THAT APOINTIMENT. xxxox
Wonderful card! I think I need that stamp set. I will pray for your daughter and her friend’s family. What a sad story! It only takes a moment to get your breasts examined. When you miss an appointment, you’re taking a chance on your life! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Sharon especially for the prayers. Good point about missing an appointment. It’s so easy let life get in the way and not take care of business. 🙂
Kathy, just read this and so sorry for your niece’s friend…this could be any of us and being a survivor of 17 years it seems that is behind me til I’m reminded how many people still die from this terrible disease. I’m so glad you shared your story because so many people will be touched and may consider going to the doctor before it is too late. I would love to send your niece’s friend a card…could you email the address to me.
Wow Sandy 17 years!!! That’s the best news thanks for sharing that and it’s so encouraging too!!! I also appreciate you pointing out that sharing might prompt someone to go to the doctor!! Ok emailing you now 🙂
Whoa! What courage to share your story, Kathy! I’m so sorry to hear that Jackie passed away. I would’ve certainly sent her a card. However, I’d still be more than happy to send a card to the family.
I have a dear friend that was diagnosed last year with breast cancer, too. She’s in her mid 30s and we were all shocked. She, too, had a long history of amazing women in her family with breast cancer. With 4 little ones at home, I was praying she’d be ok. She, too, got a bilateral mastectomy. She blogged her journey so that we could see/read what the was like for her. We’re incredibly grateful that she’s doing well now. Clear of cancer. Enjoying life. God is good!
Thanks for sharing your story. I see that you’re enjoying life, too–and now we get to enjoy your coloring and talent! 🙂 Feel free to email me with the address and I’ll send a condolence card right away.
Hi Pat thanks for sharing your friends story and so happy to hear that she is cancer free and life is good. Emailing you now 🙂
Oh Kathy, I’m so very sorry! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your friend’s family.
Thanks Celeste keep the prayers coming 🙂
Hugs and prayers going out for Jackie’s family and friends. Thank you for sharing your story. It is good to know since I don’t have family or friends who have a story to share about this kind of battle. Take care.
Thank you Ruth and let’s hope it stays that way….that makes me happy to know that 🙂
This is tough to write but thank you so much for sharing your story. My mom died from breast cancer many years ago. Now, I am headed into reconstruction surgery on Thursday. This is not my first reconstruction surgery and while I am grateful to be cancer free for 18 months now, I am kind of sick of dealing with this. I was a little discouraged to hear about your heaviness – I was hoping things could get good enough that I could kind of put it behind me. Maybe not. But again, I am here with my husband and my wonderful son – so I will head into surgery and adopt that positive attitude and hope for the best – I don’t need attractive boobies – just pain free ones… I would love to send a card to this family who have been through so much.
Oh Carolyn!!! Thanks for sharing your story and whoever reads this will be praying for you I am sure of it. I just emailed you 🙂
Kathy, I would LOVE to send a card to this family! My thoughts and prayers are with them.
I’m a two-time breast cancer survivor! My first bought was in ’96 and the 2nd in ’03. So I KNOW first hand what THEY are going through. It’s SO hard on everyone.
Congrats to you on beating the ugly “C” word!
Sherry
Wow!!! good for you Sherry!! You are an inspiration to the max!!! Emailing you in a few 🙂
P.S. Thanks for sharing your story! THAT takes courage too 😉
Thanks Sherry 🙂
My sincere apologies for my late visit, Kathy…I feel so badly that Jackie has passed, and I would love to send a card to her daughter and her siblings!
Thank you so much for sharing this about Jackie, and for sharing a bit about your battle with breast cancer. Nurse -to-Nurse…you did the right thing! It’s exactly what I would have done, for sure 🙂
God bless you for all of your wonderful posts…and for reaching out to us on behalf of Jackie and her family.
Oh Barb no apologies necessary. Thanks for your kind comments! PLUS it’s always nice to know what a nurse would do so thanks for that too. I am emailing you in a minute. 🙂
Kathy,
Please send me the address, I would like to send a card to your niece’s friends family.
You got it..just pushed send 🙂 Thanks
Hello Kathy. You’re a survivor. So many people do not win the fight. We are all very lucky to have you in our lives. You help us to be more creative. You inspire us to be better in our art. Thank you for all you do. Please send me the address. I know too many who are battling cancer or have done so in the past. God bless you. Denise
Thanks so much Denise you are such a sweetheart!!! Can you see me blushing? I just emailed you 🙂
This is so sad to read. I have had family have cancer and my mother died from Leukemia years ago. Please send their address for me so that I too may send a card to this berieved family. God bless you for sharing your own heart wrenching story. Praying for you to continue in health!
Emailing you now Beverly 🙂
THANK YOU for sharing your story Kathy, you are such a brave and strong soul!!!
My heart goes out to your niece, her friend and their family, it is such a difficult loss to face. My Mother-In-Law passed away after a short illness a few months ago and after caring for her for many years, it is a loss we still feel every day. Almost 2 months to the day my husband’s last Uncle passed away after an all-too-short battle with cancer too. Over the years cancer has taken too many loved ones from us.
While there is so much pain shared within this post and the comments, there is also much hope, comfort and joy. Thank you all for sharing. My personal experience was a couple of years ago where the routine mammogram found a lump, there were delays with the follow-up, organising the biopsies then getting the results, which were luckily OK, but it sure was a stressful few weeks of not knowing and just wanting to get something done to know and fix it as fast as I could. I think (and hope) that I would have made the same decision as you did if the results were different.
I am sorry that I am a few days late in seeing this post. Given that I’m a few days late and I am in Australia, it might not be timely for me to send a card, but I do have some ill friends who I have not sent a card to for quite a while, so I am going to send them all a card this week instead. One also has a 5yo Granddaughter who is facing 6-8 weeks more treatment in hospital (it looks like being well over 3 months away from home, which is tough on all the family) and I am making some cards to send her as well.
All anyone can do is fight the good fight. I’m so happy that you beat it and so sorry that it got your niece’s friend. Thinking of you all.
Thanks Jengd! Keep the positive thoughts coming 🙂
Wishing your niece strength to get through this tough time. I would like to send her a card:
Thanks Tracie you have such a huge heart. Did I send you her address? EEk I can’t remember. Will check IG . Hugs
Yes, Kathy, you sent me her address and I sent her a card. Hope she is doing okay. Have a nice weekend!
Ok Thanks Tracie 🙂
Kathy, I was out of town when this post hit. I can empathize with you and feel that sisterhood. I’d shower you with cards and shower anyone with a disease if it would be one less drug they had to take, one less side effect of one more drug or do anything to help in anyway. Thank you for sharing your experience. Another thing we share and that which does not kill us, only makes us weirder. Hugs and Love, sending positive vibes! ~M~
Hi Mari, I have to agree with your comments … maybe one day! Glad we are both weird and keep those vibes coming! 🙂
You, my friend, have those vibes up and down both sides of the street and through the airwaves. I was just watching (again) the clean color blooms video that you made for the last 30 day stamp challenge, Those blooms from WPlus9 are indeed gorgeous, but your expert coloring makes them come alive. I am wrapping up an OCC, which I am taking with Kristina and the Jennifers and they are awesome. So, I have taken your sagely advice and I continue to do something for me in coloring. Sandy Allock, introduced these coloring books by Pepin, where the line disappear as you color and YOU were the first person I thought of that would love them. I can’t wait for the next 30 day challenge (soon). So excited. Now that I wrote a novel, I shall bid you adeiu and keep sending you those vibes! Keep Coloring, ~Mari~
My sweet friend Kathy!!! Thank you for sharing your story. I have a several friends with breast cancer and I know the strength, courage, love and support needed to get through everyday. I am sad to hear that Jackie lost her battle. Please send me her family’s address so that I may send cards.
poconopam@gmail.com
Thanks Pam I just emailed you 🙂
I just sat and read every single comment that was posted. I received such a beautiful response from you Kathy on my post and I am very thankful. I can’t get over all the people that have been affected either directly or indirectly by cancer! And we are such a small group of people in the grand scheme! They say there’s a special place in heaven for volunteers, I’m sure there’s a special place there too for cancer victims. A place of peace where there’s no pain or sickness, no tears just peace. I’m thinking about all of you and I wish I could send you all a card. I can’t though so please consider this my card to you, each and everyone of you.
Love to you all,
Daphne
You are such a sweetheart Daphne!! It was a very emotional two days and I am so lucky and so blessed to have such amazing women following my blog. I wish I could send everyone a card too. Thanks for your lovely comments and I have to agree with you. Hugs, Kathy
Such an INCREDIBLE Story and one that is VERY Similar to that of my M-I-L!! She actually just lost her life last year to Breast Cancer that had Spread!! It has been a VERY ROUGH YEAR!! She was like you and had the Dr.’s all wanting her to just do a Lumpectomy!! She went for just a Left Mastectomy beings there was NO sign of Cancer in the Right Side and then had a Reconstruction done!! The percent they gave her that the Breast Cancer could show up in the Right Side was SMALL and they DIDN’T recommend a TOTAL Mastectomy!! Fast forward 13 years and she NEVER missed a Follow up Mammogram and she was told they saw a Spot Under the Implant on her Reconstructed Breast!!?? They thought maybe it could be in her Lung too!!?? After Surgery for Biopsies, she was told that the Breast Cancer as back and had startd in some Muscle that they had missed during her Left Mastectomy!! It was in the Early Stages though so Chemo and Radiation were done along with a Radical Mastectomy this time + some as they wanted to make SURE they got ALL of the Breast Tissue/Muscle!! I’m a Surgical Tech so I have scrubbed in on WAY TOO MANY of these Surgeries and lets just say its ALOT to go through for ANYONE who has gone through it!! After her Treatments were over she got another 2 Years with No Cancer and then it showed up in her Lungs and Finally had Spread into her Back and Bones!! She WAS A TOTAL INSPIRATION!! She DIDN’T WANT ANYONE to go with her to her Treatments so she DROVE herself 1 1/2 hours one way three times a Week!! She NEVER let anyone know how much PAIN she was in at the END and it has been one of the HARDEST things I have EVER had to go through because she was one of the MOST AMAZING WOMAN I have EVER KNOWN!! I was SO LUCKY to have had her for my M-I-L and I CRY for my Boys as they MISS her DEARLY EVERYDAY!! Cancer is a STRANGE Disease and even though they have studies I AGREE EACH Cases is SO DIFFERENT and there is NOT a ONE TYPE FITS ALL CURE/Way to Fight it!! You have to do what’s BEST for you and your HEART and remember that you’re NEVER ALONE!! HUGS TO YOU and your Niece and her Dear Friend and Family!! It will be a ROUGH Year!! LOSS IS NEVER FUN or EASY!! THANKS SO MUCH for sharing your Story and if its okay I’d LOVE an Address so I can send a Card!! HUGS!! =) mcclar26@yahoo.com
Oh gosh Larissa thanks so much for sharing your story with this ugly disease. Pass the tissues!! I am emailing you now 🙂
Kathy, today is the first day that I have read your post as I just recently found you and the first thing to jump out at me was “Breast Cancer”. I’m 23 years out from my surgery and like you do not like the term survivor either. I was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer in my right breast at 38. I remember coming home from the doctors office thinking why me God but then my next thought was why not me I am not better then anyone else. With 3 children at home there was never a doubt in my mind that I would have anything but a mastectomy even though I had read all the statistics that a lumpectomy with chemo and radiation would be just as good. I asked my surgeon if I were his wife what would he recommended and without hesitation he said mastectomy. Ten years later after 2 monograms showed possible spots on the left breast I told my surgeon that I didn’t want to go through this anymore and could we do a prophylactic mastectomy to which he said yes. I opted not to have reconstruction surgery and that is a decision that is very different for each women facing the loss of her breast (s). At the time of my diagnosis I asked God for two things which were; let me live at least tens years (so that my youngest daughter would be at least 18) and that I I could help at least one other woman who was going thru this know that she not alone. I had so many people praying for me including Mother Theresa (my aunt met her and ask for her prayers for me) Well he answered both those prayers. My youngest daughter is 30 and has a beautiful son who is two
today. My second prayer was answered so many times by just wearing a breast cancer bracelet and someone noticing.. Especially men who would see it and would say oh my mom, sister or wife was just diagnosed and just wanted to talk with someone who had been there. As the years have gone by I find that I don’t think about cancer very often any more but it took a long time to get to that point. I am so glad to have read your post and those of all the strong and courageous women who did the same. Debbie. BTW, I also love to color.
Wow Debbie thanks for sharing your story!! So happy to hear that your prayers were answered and now your daughter is 30!! Yay!! It’s so uplifting to hear stories like yours and sounds like you have touched many lives. Welcome to my blog and I hope you will take the coloring challenge it’s so fun to carve out some YOU time. Big hugs, Kathy
I just subscribed to your Newsletter (I found your blog via Jennifer McGuire, posting about your 30 Day Coloring Challenge ). I simply wish to express my condolences to those who lost their beloved friend & family member. I also wish health & well being to you & all who read this blog (whether you are struggling with illness or have in the past, or a fortunate enough to never have had a health scare). God bless you all.