Life Threw a Curve Ball…The Post I Never Wanted to Write
This is hard. I don’t want to write this post, but I am going to do it.
If you are a regular here, you know that I am very active and health conscious. I exercise, I eat well, I rarely drink, and I go to the doctor when needed.
On January 13, I got the shock of my life…I found out that I have lung cancer. Yes, I found out this terrible news on Friday the 13th.
You are probably wondering if I smoke. I don’t, but my dad did. He died of lung cancer in 1997 at the age of 57. I am 47.
Lung cancer is the #2 most common cancer for women following breast cancer at #1. The type of lung cancer that I have is the most common type for non-smokers.
I have never take a selfie at the gym, but on Friday the 13th, I took this one. I wanted a picture of the cute new shirt that I had just purchased. Little did I know that in a few short hours my world would be forever changed. I have since thrown that shirt away. I could never again wear it without thinking of what happened shortly after that workout.
How My Cancer Was Discovered
Just before Thanksgiving, I noticed that I coughed at bedtime. Being in a reclined position made me cough, but I didn’t cough during the day. The cough continued into December, but I didn’t worry about it because I thought it was allergies.
In December, I noticed that when I ran, I felt like I couldn’t get a deep breath of air. Again, I thought it was allergies.
We had a big snow storm in my area on January 7, which led to school being closed January 9-11. Since school was closed, I took advantage of the free time and made an appointment with the doctor so that I could get some new allergy medicine to get rid of my pesky cough. I saw a PA on January 10 who suggested a chest x-ray. I just thought it was routine given that there was congestion in my chest.
Shortly after the x-ray, the PA called and told me not to worry, but there was a shadow on my x-ray, and that I needed a CT scan. I was a tiny bit worried then, but not a lot. I had the CT scan on January 13 and that evening my doctor called with the news that I have lung cancer and that the lymph nodes in the center of my chest are enlarged.
I had no idea. I thought that I needed a new nose spray for my allergies but my problem was really cancer. What? How could this be happening to me?
What Happened Next
I did not know what to do with myself. I paced around the house. I walked up and down the street. Finally, I just sat on the porch and waited for my husband to come home from walking the dog. My husband is a rock star and did what he could to comfort me and to calm me down. Neither one of us slept much that night.
Over the weekend I kept busy. We walked our dog, we went to the lake, and we worked on the DIY 2×4 Shelves that I shared last week.
On Monday, January 16, I went to my doctor’s office to do blood work and to get my treatment process started. My blood work was normal.
On Tuesday, January 17, I had a biopsy of the tumor to check to see if it was indeed cancer. On Thursday, during my planning period at school, I got the call that the tumor was cancer. I had a small glimmer of hope that it wasn’t cancer, but it was. Nothing beats getting a call during your planning period that you definitely have cancer and then having to teach two more classes.
I kept all of this to myself. No one knew but my husband and my mother. I was afraid that if someone found out and said anything to me at work that I would break down. I didn’t want my students to see me upset, so I kept it to myself.
My first oncology appointment was January 24. I went in hoping to start some kind of treatment that day, but that is not how it works. The doctor explained to me that I would need to do several tests, the results of which would determine my treatment plan. The necessary tests are an MRI of the brain, a bronchoscopy, and a PET scan. The doctors need to know exactly which parts of my body have cancer before they can determine how to treat me.
The bronchoscopy was the most worrisome appointment to schedule. The pulmonology office in my town is very busy and there wasn’t an appointment to be had. The sweet scheduler finally forced me into the schedule, but the appointment wasn’t until February 2. I knew that if I didn’t see a doctor in that office until February 2 that I wouldn’t be able to have a bronchoscopy before my next oncology appointment on February 6. I asked her to call me if there was a cancellation. She knew that I was upset and desperate to get an appointment. The next morning she called me to tell me to come in that day as someone had just cancelled. And she also told me that a giant rainbow appeared as the cancellation came in allowing her to call me with an appointment. A sign? You tell me.
Mr. SP just happened to take a picture of that rainbow as he walked Sherman.
I had my brain MRI Friday and the bronchoscopy yesterday. The PET scan is scheduled for Friday. The waiting is hard. Really hard.
Before the 24th, I made the difficult decision to leave school to focus on my health. I miss my students and my teacher friends but right now dealing with this is about all that I can handle.
If you’ve been wondering why there haven’t been a lot of blog posts from me in 2017, now you know why. I have no plans to stop blogging, I just haven’t had the heart to do anything creative that I can share with you. I am hoping that once I have the results of my tests and a treatment plan in place that some of my creative mojo will come back.
The Positive
My friends and family have rallied around me. So many people have reached out to me with good thoughts, prayers, and offers to help if I need it. I feel so loved which is just what I need.
That’s all for now.
Other Posts About My Cancer That I Have Written
- Living with Stage 4 Lung Cancer – An Update on How I am Doing
- Living with Stage 4 Lung Cancer – October 2020 Update
Paula, you are so brave and strong. I am here for you for anything you ever need! I know you will get through this like a champ!!
So very sorry to hear your news. Prayers and hugs as you walk this difficult road.
I”m so sorry to hear this! Thankful for that snow day that allowed you the time to go see your doctor. Truly wishing you a speedy recovery.
Paula,
I cannot imagine how you must be feeling right now. I will be lifting you up in prayer and also praying for your family, your medical team and also your sweet students. I know that He will give you the strength you need to get through this. Sending you a big hug!
oh my gosh, paula. i am so so sorry that you have to deal with this and everything that comes with this. i am wishing for you strength and stamina, and perseverance and peace. thank you for writing this extremely difficult post, and when you can, do update us on how you are. we will be thinking of you.
b
I know exactly how you feel
I was diagnosed with cervical cancer august 5 of last year
My diagnosis was also a complete shock to me
the journey you r about to go on will b the most difficult of your life
But it is a journey that will teach you so many important lessons
I will add you to my daily prayer list
Also get your port as soon as possible it will save you much pain
Don’t wait as I did
You will get through this
Prayers for you and your family
Oh Paula, I am so so sorry to hear this news. I will be a prayer warrior for you my friend. I can’t even imagine how difficult this post was to write but I’m glad you did so we can all gather around and support you in any way we can.
I am so, so sorry that you are having to battle this but you are amazingly strong for sharing your story and we all thank you for that. Sending you much love and strength <3
Oh, Paula. I am so sorry dear. I will be praying for you!
Paula, prayers for you
Oh dear Paula, I’m in tears as I write this. This is a complete shock and I don’t understand either. Please know you’ll be in my thoughts and prayers. Love that rainbow picture, makes me miss Lynchburg and makes me want to give you a bear hug!! Love you!
Oh, my friend. I am so sorry to read this news. I have never gotten the “yes, it’s cancer” call, but I have had a ton of scares and a ton of those waiting times, so I can imagine a little bit of how you feel. You will certainly be in my prayers throughout all of this, and if there is anything I can do to help, please let me know. You are so strong, and I know you will be a warrior through this. Hugs to you!
~Abby =)
Oh, I’m so sorry to hear this. You are in my thoughts and prayers!
Paula, I saw your post on Facebook and came over to read your story. I am so very sorry you are going through this, and am amazed at your strength in handling the news. Words are inadequate … but know that prayers are being said for you. I don’t know if you’re a spiritual person, but God promises that when we are weak, He will be our strength. Try to take it a day at a time, and try not to worry about tomorrow (I know, easier said than done). I have a little formula I follow during dark times in my life. I’ll share it in case it helps you. In the morning ask yourself, “Can I get through today?” The answer will most likely be “yes.” And then name 5 things for which you’re grateful. I try to focus on those 5 things throughout the day. It helps change the perspective a little. Thank you for sharing your story – I’m sure it will help many people.
I’m so sorry Paula. I can’t even begin to imagine what you are going through – you’re in my thoughts.
OH goodness, I just saw this on FB as well, I am so sorry you are having to deal with this. You are a strong woman with many great people behind you. I will pray for the doctors to know what the best course of treatment is and for you and your family to find the strength you need to get through this!
(((Paula))) I have been thinking about you and Dave and your Mom all weekend girl. Love you. Praying constantly for you.
Paula, I am praying for you. I lead a prayer group on Wednesday nights and we will all pray for you tonight.
You are so strong and courageous and if there is anything at all I can do for you, please let me know.
My heart breaks at hearing this news. Please know you have a family here that will do anything at all to love, support, and encourage you during this time. Please raise your hand and let us love you by helping. Blessings, prayers, and hugs… Susie
I am so sorry to hear this! I’m a long time blog reader and feel like I’ve known you for years. I’m sending lots of love and light your way!
When I got my cancer diagnosis in 1999, I spent a week preparing to die. I then decided that I didn’t want to spend the rest of my life mourning what might not happen. I decided to fight. I agree the waiting to start treatment was the hardest. I had stage 3 breast cancer and I’m still here. You will get a lot of advice but remember every cancer is different. Prayer, a positive attitude, a healthy lifestyle and a mentor (someone who had lung cancer) are what helped me the most. I’m available if you need to talk. Healing prayers
MarthaMerle
I am so sorry!!! I am sending many prayers your way.
I hope and pray for a full recovery. I will keep you in my daily prayers. God bless.Susan
Oh Paula! I can not even begin to imagine how upsetting it was to get the news that you have cancer. You are a strong woman and a fighter! Sending prayers and hugs your way as you battle the cancer and seek a treatment plan. Thank you for sharing with all of us and please continue to do so as you feel comfortable so we can keep track and know how to pray for you.
Paula I am so sorry to hear this. Stay strong, I’m sure that writing this was very difficult but will help in your healing process. Please keep a positive attitude I will keep you in my prayers.
I’m am so very sorry! I will be praying for you!!!
We’ve just gone through this exact thing with my brother-in-law so I know some of how you are feeling. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Hey Paula, Thank you for sharing this. I can’t imagine what you’ve been through. I didn’t know you lost your dad to lung cancer. This must be a very scary time. I’m glad you are taking the time to focus on your health. I feel like I know you and that we are friends from these years of blogging! My first instinct was to call you when I saw your post but maybe that’s a little weird– just wanted you to know there are tons of people who care about you (even some you haven’t “met”) . Big Hug, Malia
Oh Paula. This really hurts my heart, but you are one very strong lady and you’ll kick cancer’s butt. I’ll keep you in my prayers sweet friend. Great big hugs to you.
Paula, I can’t begin to imagine what you are going through. I’m praying for you, girl. You’ve got this.
Praying for you. Xo
Dear Paula, thank you for sharing this with us. You are an extraordinary person and you are strong and courageous!! You can do this !! I am adding you to a couple of prayer chains if that is ok with you. I know the SHOCKING feeling when you hear the word Cancer. Thankfully, the technology and science are moving quickly and treatments are easier and better. I do think that getting a Port is a great idea. I had chemo for a year and after a while my hand become numb because I did not get a port. It’s fine now. Put on your WARRIOR SUIT and Face it head on…..you can beat this!!! I had breast cancer not lung but I am here for you if you need to talk or if you need Anything!!!! Anything at all!!! xo Caroline
Paula, You will be in my thoughts and prayers every day! That rainbow is a beautiful sign that everything is going to be just fine and you will beat the cancer.
I am sending you all the good juju, from one teacher to another.
Paula, my heart is so sad and heavy by this news. You will be in my prayers for full recovery. God is full of signs and miracales and I hope you press into Him on this journey. Please keep us posted. ♡♡♡
Oh, Paula, I’m sorry to hear this news. I’m praying all will be well and that you’ll beat this. I’m sure you’re still in shock, as I was to read this. But the great news is that you’re strong and healthy! Keep fighting and beat cancer’s butt, girl!
Cancer unfortunately touches so many people and families, no one is immune for sure. Keep on keeping on, and when you think you can’t take anymore, you can. Keep looking for the rainbows.
So sorry! We lost a young family to the same disease in 1998. My husband always says,” If the same they were to happen today, it would be a totally different story.” So much has changed since your dad died. Take care!
God Bless You Will keep you in my prayers.
Oh Paula! I have no words since anything I say doesn’t seem right or feel like it would help change how you are feeling right now. I’ll be keeping you in my heart and in my thoughts. You are an amazing strong woman.. I know you will fight!
<3
You were loved before and you are loved now – may you always feel the love!! May prayers and love heal you very soon.
Paula, you are instantly in our prayers and we know that you attention to your health will help you fight this. Thank you for sharing your heart. God will never leave you!
Paula I am so sorry you are going thru this hard time. I cannot imagine. I believe in prayer and I promise to pray for you. I hope you will give us updates as you feel you can or want to. Keep that rainbow in your mind.
Find a support group. I know it’s early but tey can share valuable experience. Thank you for sharing and I pray that this passes. My husband was recently diagnosed with non-alcoholic cirrosis of the liver at 54. He is not a drinker but family history of liver cancer. I did my alone crying and I worry more than him. You are healthy and that rainbow was there for a reason. I believe in signs and prayer.
Your post just blew me away. I cannot imagine getting such news in the middle of the day and teaching two more classes. That alone speaks to your spirit and determination! I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers every day. You are amazing! Remember, you’re braver than you believe and stronger than you seem.
Oh Paula, I am so very sorry! Words are not enough, but I will lift you up in prayer and believe with you for the very best scenario possible. May you know God’s comfort and strength and most of all His healing in the days ahead. XO
Paula,
I am so sorry to hear this difficult news for you. Keeping a good thought and sending positive thoughts and prayers your way.
gail
Paula, I have been hoping to see you and to tell you that I’m praying for a great treatment plan and a complete cure for you! I just really believed that you were having allergy issues, and didn’t even consider anything serious, like cancer. Keep a good attitude and know that I would do anything to help. Hope to hear good. Red from you soon. We miss you! Pam
Good news from you.
Paula, I am so sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I will definitely be praying for you and sending positive thoughts.
Oh Paula I am so sorry for this news. My sister in law is going through treatment for breast cancer and she had to wait what seemed like forever to have tests done before they could start treatment. That’s good you were able to take time off of work and focus on your health and getting better. I am rooting for you and will be keeping you in my prayers. Hugs sweet friend xoxo
Paula I’m absolutely shocked! I’m so sorry to hear this. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
I am SO very sorry to hear about your diagnosis, Paula. Please know that I’ll be keeping you in my prayers.
Paula,
I am so sorry to hear this news! I am keeping positive thoughts for your speedy and long term recovery!
Jeannee
Paula, I sure hope you get some good news. That rainbow has to be a sign!! Praying for you and your family.
Paula,
I’m praying for you and your husband to have the wisdom in what to do. I’m also believing for the right doctors for you. Sending you love and covering you in prayers.
Paula, I am so sorry to learn you are going through this. I will pray for you and send as many positive thoughts as possible. Take care, Shelley
Paula I left you a message on FB, but forgot to add if you need ANY blog posts, or anything, don’t hesitate for one minute to reach out to me. And I mean that. xxoo
I am so sorry to hear this news, we don’t know each other, but I have been following for a few years already, I can’t know what you are going through, I will keep you and your family in my prayers
Oh, Paula. I can’t begin to tell you very, very sorry I am to get this news.
I knew your dad died at a young age, but I didn’t know it was from lung cancer. Oh, precious friend, this diagnosis must bring up every fear imaginable.
PLEASE know that I’ll be praying for you, and so will countless others. Also please call on me if there’s any way I can help you. I think I’ve told you that my house is just 15 minutes from Duke Hospital. If you need to see someone there, you could stay with me! I know my way around that place very well.
Sweet friend, your dedication to your health and wellness will pay off now, I know. You’re in a good position to BEAT this disease. And you have many people cheering you on. God bless you!
Paula, I’m so glad you aren’t leaving your blog. Prayers for you as you face this very challenging obstacle. I love your attitude.
I am so sorry to hear this. (((hugs))) Lots of prayers will be said for you here. it sounds like you’ve got your focus just where it needs to be. I’m glad it sounds like you have doctors around you who are on it. XO!
Thank you so much for being so open with the blogging world, it’s very hard, especially when it’s your health. Something about “putting it out there” makes it even more real. You are a warrior and I know you will battle this with all you have. Continued prayers for all your testing, and for the doctors as they determine your path. Prayers for peace, and comfort.
Please know that you are in my prayers and thoughts everyday.
Prayers for good prognosis and as you go through treatment and healing. Faith and Tina
I’m so sorry you have to fight this battle. Prayers and hugs to you.
I haven’t blogged for over six months but saw this on FB which I rarely check. So sorry to hear this. ???? for you Paula
Oh my goodness I am so sorry! I will be praying for healing and peace of mind!
Sending positive thoughts your way. Stay strong and you will beat this!!
We just never know what’s around the corner Paula and I can only imagine what a shock this has been for you. I’m incredibly sorry to read this and will be sending you positive energy, love and light in my meditations throughout your treatment. I hope you can feel the love from all your blogging friends xxx
Paula, I am shocked and so very sorry to hear this news. I can’t imagine how difficult this must be for you to go through and to write this out on your blog. Please know I will be praying for you, my friend.
Oh Paula! I am so very sorry about your news! Sending loads of positive thoughts and prayers to you! May you find strength and courage for your journey ahead which I am sure you will!!!
Paula — the beginning of your story could be mine. A silly little cough that lingered from January into February. It was my second year in Chicago and I figured allergies. finally mentioned it to a doctor in August and it was two more months before I got diagnosed with cancer – after my lung collapsed. Mine was a rare form of lymphoma, but I made it through surgery and chemo and am here to tell the tale eleven years later. May the thoughts of all your friends hold you up at this stressful time.
I am so sorry, friend. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
karianne
I love you, Paula! Looking forward to running together again soon!
Sweet Paula, I’m so very sorry to hear this. You and your family are in my prayers and if there is anything I can do to help you in anyway please let me know! You are such a strong lady and shine such a bright light that I know you can tackle this!
Girl, I’m praying for you! ✨
So sorry about your diagnosis Paula. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time.
Paula…You were one of the first bloggers in person I met years ago. You amazed me with how healthy and strong you were then and still are. You’re going to kick this in the pants! I’m here if you need anything…just an email away. Hugs!
Praying God will give you peace and understanding through this time of uncertainty. Be brave and know that God is with you always.
Please know that you have people praying for you. May God be with you and your family during this difficult time.
I am so sorry to hear about this diagnosis. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.. ?
I’m so sorry you have to deal with this Paula, but I honestly believe that rainbow is a sign from God that all will be well. Praying for you sweet girl!
Sending you healing thoughts and prayers. Stay Strong!
Paula, I can not even begin to imagine what you are going through. I am so incredibly disheartened to read this news. Jamie and I are praying for you and Dave. You are so strong to share this with all of us and I just know that you’ll be an inspiratauon to so many during this battle. Hugs!
I can’t imagine all that is going through your mind right now. You are in my thoughts and prayers as you face this diagnosis. I hope you can get back to your projects, since that is therapeutic in itself.
Paula, you don’t know me, but my son, Dylan, is one of your students and he has been so upset since he found out your news. We just wanted to let you know that we are thinking about you and sending good wishes for the best possible outcome!
I am so sorry to read your post and discover your news. Praying for you and praying for your husband as you beat this.
Dear Paula, I am so sorry you are having to go through this. I prayed for you all night and will continue to pray for you and your family as you start this journey. I don’t often comment but have loved reading your blog for years. Please try to keep your positive thoughts and rely on your friends, family and health care providers for support. Ten years ago, I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer and truly believe staying positive, friends, great health providers and lots of prayers cured me. Yes, your your beautiful rainbow was a sign 🙂 I live in the Washington DC/Baltimore area so if you decide on treatment in this area, please let me know if you need a place to stay or any assistance. Love, prayers and hugs to you, Natalie
dear Paula … YOU ARE healthy and strong, please don’t lose sight of that as you travel down this new path, remain as positive as possible, deal only with what results you know, today, and know that you can do it, what-ever it takes YOU CAN beat this … YOU CAN and YOU WILL. Lots of prayers and good thoughts daily for you, and your husband (your dog) and your Mom too, don’t leave them out, lean on the LOVE and STRENGTH they will provide for you. Pray, praying and continued prayers daily for YOU from me. Paula YOU ARE healthy and strong.
I cannot imagine, but I have tears in my eyes for you. Good advice here, and lots of love and concern expressed from your friends and readers. I will pray for you. The creator of rainbows will carry you!
I’m so sorry for the news you received! My prayers are with you. I have heard that Frankincense essential oil has been known to get rid of cancer. I have been doing a little research, please check into it.
Oh, my sweet friend, I am so very sorry to read this. Having been diagnosed with cancer, I know the apprehension, fear and worry that comes with all of the waiting. I was like you, the “healthy” one of the family. Exercise, eat right, etc. Everyone was as shocked as I. My oncologist said, sometimes there is just no rhyme or reason to these things. And to not discount the healthy lifestyle. It probably helped keep it from being worse and will help down the road in recovery. I’m so sorry you have to go through this! Please know, that even though I was not diagnosed with that type of cancer, I understand so much of how you are feeling. You can reach out to me for anything at all. Even to just talk. I will be keeping you in my prayers!!! Love you!! xoxo
Mrs.Skulina you probably don’t remember me because it’s been awhile but I sure remember you and the amazing teacher you are. I just want you to know that I’ll be praying for you and your family. Just continue to be the strong person you are. ??
Paula,
I am sorry, but, I also know there is hope! Many things can be done and modern medicine is miraculous! I also believe in prayer and will pray God’s healing on your body.
I’ll be praying for you. Cancer has taken many family members of mine. Sadly it just never seems to be choosy ? I definitely have hope – and with all this praying – that has to do something!!
I am so sorry to hear your news. Right before Thanksgiving 2013I got the cancer news.My tumor had abscess my liver, given me septiseemia, and wrapped itself around stomach, liver, and colon. I was in shock since I was told I had flu for two months. I decided to think in terms of where I see myself in 6 months. ALWAYS improved, so I had goals and ALWAYS well. I think it’s crucial. I have had many setbacks, many bad days, but 3 years later I am alive and cancer free.. You are twenty years younger and live a strong healthy life. I see you winning this “bump in the Road” ( I always think of my illness as a bump in the road so I don’t allow it to define me) and continuing to do the job you were put here for. Lots of prayers and positive thoughts coming your way from me.?
Paula, I am so very sorry to hear this. I can imagine the wait is horrible…but I pray the tests will give you the best news possible and you can start your road to recovery SOON. Thinking about and praying for you!
I am so sorry to read this. I have been a reader of your blog since I stumbled upon one of your holiday projects years ago. I know the shock, fear and disbelief of hearing that word, I was diagnosed last January with bilateral breast cancer at age 41. I too exercised, ate well and generally took good care of myself and honestly couldn’t imagine that this was happening. I know there will be times coming that will be difficult but always, always know that you are a strong woman who can and will beat this. Take each step as it comes and please, please allow your friends and family to support you through this. That was a very difficult thing for me to do but once I finally accepted offers of help and assistance I was amazed at how much easier it made everything. A good friend once told me that not letting people help was robbing them of being a part of this journey with me and that really struck me. I will be sending many, many thoughts and prayers your way.
Paula, I can’t not even imagine what you’re going thru. Keeping you in my heart and thoughts as you beat this.
Paula, I am so sorry I can’t even imagine how hard this is for you, I will keep you in my prayers, wishing you the very best!
Praying
Oh, Paula! I am so incredibly sorry to hear this news and I can’t even begin to imagine how you’ve been feeling since that Friday in January. Hugs and prayers, girl.
Oh Paula, I’m shocked to read this. Despite your post being difficult to write, thank you very much for sharing the news. You’ve got quite a lot of friends and strangers praying for you and I believe that rainbow was indeed a sign. I’m stumbling over my words because I’m a cancer survivor and reading your post brought back all of those initial emotions you’re going through right now. I hope the medical tests will get you on a treatment plan soon so that you can feel a tiny bit better knowing what’s specifically ahead. I’m sending you the tightest virtual hug, and hope you feel the love of so many thinking and praying.
Thank you, Laura. I did not know that you had a battle with cancer. I am sorry that you had to go through that but happy that you were treated successfully.
Paula
Hi Paula. Mrs. Conde here. Can’t believe what I just read. Keep it positive. You are a strong woman. My dad had lung cancer almost 2 years ago. He is fine now and everything is clean. Soon you will be clean too and these hard days will be just part of the past. I am sending you a big big hug.
I needed to hear about a success story, Mercedes. Thanks so much for telling me about your dad and for sending me good wishes.
Paula
Wow!!!! You can handle anything and know that you have a great support system here also Prayers and white light being sent to you
Ms. Ahalt/Skulina/Paula
You’re one of the best teachers I ever had, and this is one of the most heartbreaking things I’ve read in a long time. My prayers and thoughts are certainly with you. I only live a few minutes from you, so if you need something, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Thank you, John!
Paula
I am so sorry to hear this for you, Paula! Please know that I will keep you in my prayers and thoughts.
I can’t think of anyone more beautiful or stonger than you.
http://you are a surviver. No doubt.
Love, Jamye
My heart goes out to you Paula. Even though you don’t feel very strong right now I think you will find strength you never knew you had. There is a story of a young woman who survives stage 1V lung cancer in this weeks Woman’s World dated February 13th. I have lit a candle for you and will keep you in my prayers. Please let us know how you are doing.
I will look for that issue today. Thanks for letting me know about it, Sandra.
Paula
I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Prayers for a full recovery. God Bless you and yours. I will include you in my daily Rosary.
Marilyn
You do not know me Paula I have just come over from Amy’s blog after reading this about you. I was so touched by your post.
I am not a big religious person but I do believe in God and the power of Prayer. I have seen it work. So I am praying for you that you get a treatment that will help get your life back on track. My am a retired oncology nurse and I can tell you that the better shape you are in the better you do with treatment. So it is good you have treated your body so well. Hoping for the best news possible on your treatment plan.
Hugs,
Prayers,
Kris
I’m a three time survivor and I know all too well what you are going through. I am not going to blow smoke or sugar coat. It aucks. And I’m so sorry.
Do what you need to do and rely on your family for strength when you don’t feel like you have any left.
Keep the photo of yourself in that shirt. There will come a time you WILL actually want to see it again.
I’m wishing you all the best. Please contact me if you need resources through your journey.
Paula, I saw Cindy mention this on her post for Best of the Weekend. I’ve never stopped by your blog before, but I wanted to tell you that I will keep you in my prayers and that God definitely shows us signs in nature, such as that rainbow! Hugs and I hope you get some good answers once tests start coming back!
Carrie
curlycraftymom.com
Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family.
Paula, I am just reading this now. Sending BIG hugs your direction from Canada and holding you in my thoughts and prayers. I can only imagine how difficult it must have been to write this post. Hang on to that rainbow of hope. Keeping my fingers crossed for good results from your tests. xo
I’m coming from Ms Toody Goo Shoes’ blog. Your post was heartbreaking, but I could also feel through your writing all the energy you have and I’m sure it’ll help you. I’ll keep you in my thoughts and will be back on the blog to check on you.
Paula, let me know what I can do to support you. I’ll pray and send healing thoughts your way. With love, Sue
I haven’t blogged in a LONG while but I happened to see this in Amy’s email just now. Definitely sending good wishes and prayers your way. So very sorry you have to deal with this and if anyone can kick cancer in the butt, it’s you. xoxo
Paula, thank you for sharing, as you always do in your blog. I have followed you for years and I am sending prayers your way. Keep hugging your family for strength, walking Sherman for peace, and follow your doctor’s care. Much love to you.
Hi Paula-I am thinking of you and Dave and Sherman since you told me. Wonderful to see you have the support and love of so many-you will get through this like a champ- like physical fitness champ that you are!!
All my prayers, positive vibes and love,
Your neighbor Sarah
Paula, I am so sorry to hear of your diagnosis. My mom was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2009 (she had been a smoker when she was younger, but quit in the early 1980s). She’s in remission now. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers; show that cancer who’s boss!
Paula, it’s been many years since I’ve seen you, but I always admired your work ethic at school and your commitment to exercise. I don’t even remember how I found your blog a few months ago – maybe on Pinterest, but I have enjoyed reading your posts from time to time. I’m sorry to hear about your diagnosis. Know that I will be praying for you daily.
Thank you, Joy! It has been many years since we’ve seen each other. I’ve got great memories of our 4-H years together in Nelson. You work very close to where I live, so maybe one of these days our paths will cross. Thanks so much for leaving a comment and for your prayers.
Paula
Paula…I must have missed this one. I’m just now catching up…reading your top post over the years . I’m so sorry you ar going thru this journey of cancer. But I know your positive and that can make such a difference. I too have had cancer…breast cancer. Went thru it all..mastectomy, chemo and radiation and had lymph node involvement. I cough all th time…no answers. A shadow on my X-ray and CT. Who knows…My husband is now battling lung cancer. He’s been thru two biopsies …chemo and radiation. Inoperable. He also had 26 immunotherapy treatments. He also has COPD.
Will be keeping you in my prayers. All will be well.
Thank you so much for commenting on this post. I don’t mention my cancer often on my blog because it is frankly too depressing. I will also be saying prayers for you and your husband. Cancer is a nasty beast.
Paula
I just found your blog site and have to write to say you are the bravest woman, other than my mom, I know. I hate CANCER of any kind and can’t imagine what it is like when they give you the news, the treatments, the battles with stupid insurance companies, dealing with it everyday of your life. GOD is the healer of all. Keep your faith strong and go to him with everything, anytime. He never sleeps. I have added you to my prayer list and I will pray for you to live another year or two or however many He has in his plan and for those years to be spent surrounded by people that love and care for you. God bless you – strong woman.