Tuesday, February 9, 2010

The decision is made!

After a TON of research, several appointments, talking to several patients, a million prayers, and a lot of deliberation... I feel peace about my decision.

I have chosen my doctor and have scheduled the "mother of all surgeries" (as the oncologists call it) for March 8th.  That gives me time to prepare my body and heal from the two recent surgeries...as well as some time to spend with my children and family before I am laid up and sick for so long.  It is exactly the timing that I hoped for and this doctor fit ALL of my criteria, so I am grateful.  I don't have control over much in this situation, but I can control two things...my attitude about having cancer and my doctor.   When I am done with that surgery, the heated chemo, and 6 months or so of systemic chemo, I will KNOW I have done everything in my power to beat this.

A miracle worker surprised me and organized my pantry while I was in spokane yesterday and I finished a couple of other projects up today...so it feel good to mark some things off my "to do" list.   As I sit here, I can see the girls playing kick ball out in the back yard.  The sun is out...and it is a good day!

12 comments:

Janet said...

Shanda,
You are such an amazing person! I am so impressed with all you have done, and so happy that you have found the right Dr. to help you start the process of getting down the road to recovery. Your sweet, beautiful family will be with you every step of the way, as well as all of us who will be your extended family! You have shown so much courage and such a positive attitude and that will help you so much in the weeks to come. You have our love, positive thoughts, and, of course, our prayers always. Please know that we are here if we can do anything to help at any time!! Thank you for letting us in on your journey. Enjoy the next few weeks and use the time to get stronger and stronger as well as enjoying your family.
Love, Janet Oswalt

Andrea J said...

Thanks for sharing your experience with all of us, I am touched by your faith and your positive outlook and hope the very best for you and your family.

Auna Leigh said...

Ahhh! Way to go Shanda! Doctors are huge. I am sooo glad you feel you are in good hands! Keep fighting! You are amazing! You can't believe the strength you are sending out to everyone! You rock! Love you!

Michele said...

I'm glad things are moving in a positive direction for you. Hope it all goes well.

The Larsons said...

What a great feeling to feel at peace with such a difficult decision, and an even more difficult situation. So will the surgery be in Spokane then? Do you mind telling me the doctor's name? My mother-in-law and sister-in-law are both nurses in Spokane. If you need ANYTHING while you're there, please let us know!

Lexie said...

I'm so glad that you have made your decision and that you feel good about it. I am so impressed with the research and prayer you have put into all of this. Our prayers will continue to be with you as you become cancer free.

c-natalie-l-k-l said...

I'm glad you found THE doctor!! You are an amazing woman!

MetroParks said...

Go team Shanda!!!
I have been checking in everyday to see how things are going and praying for you always.
So glad you found incredible Drs. close to home:)
We will continue to pray that you receive and gain strength.
The Parks

Unknown said...

FANTASTIC! Will you be here in town or out of town? Take this time to really heal and do all the things you want to do while you can. I went and played my last round of golf before my last surgery and though I sucked at it, it was a good feeling to have before heading in to the surgery. Enjoy this time and definitely if you need a travel buddy or anything while you go through the chemo process, let me know okay?

Hugs,
Patt

Tracey said...

I'm so glad you found a great doctor and are feeling peace about it. Like you said, it's such a big part of your process. I'm glad you got some things done. I hope you're able to get done with the things you want finished before the big day. We'll pray you have more "sunny days" and that you'll be able to prioritize your time so you feel accomplished every day. I know you can beat this thing, you've got so much strength and courage!

Aly G said...

Yae, what a good feeling to know you have picked the right doc! Can't wait to hear how things go! You are in my thoughts and prayers!

rc said...

Shanda-I can't help but think of you and your efforts when I watch the Olympics tonight. You are as valiant as any athlete preparing for the challenge of their life. Your goal is more noble. Go Team Shanda!!!