Well, the news is not unexpected but it’s not what we hoped and prayed for. The breast biopsy has come back positive for large b cell lymphoma – which is the same aggressive lymphoma that was around my right eye and forehead area. We will have to return to Houston this week.
My ever-dedicated radiation oncologist called me last night to give us the results and a rough idea of the plan. My lymphoma team will meet Wednesday at noon to put their heads together on the definitive best course of action.
I will definitely have an allogeneic stem cell transplant (this is the donor type, and thankfully I have a 10/10 match available). The question will be whether I will have chemotherapy only, chemo and radiation, or radiation alone prior to the transplant.
Despite this being un-welcomed news, we are at least grateful that the mass is in a new area (my head is completely clear!), so I have more options for treatment.
We will discuss all of this with our children this afternoon (we didn’t want to throw it on them this morning), and then prepare to return to Houston. This time we plan to take the children. We need to figure out schooling, housing, etc. 4 months apart last time, was just too much, and I think we are still seeing some of the effects of that separation.
Please pray for wisdom & guidance for my incredible lymphoma team at MD Anderson, our family as we prepare for an upheaval of our normal life for several months, our support from family and friends – we all need renewed energy and endurance.
We will not let this shake our faith. We are disappointed and prayed this would not be our next step, but we will choose to trust God with each day.
11 But let all who take refuge in you rejoice;
let them sing joyful praises forever.
Spread your protection over them,
that all who love your name may be filled with joy.
12 For you bless the godly, O Lord;
you surround them with your shield of love.
Psalms 5:11-12
Hi April, we were so sorry to here about your new situation. But we know that you and Jonathan are strong both in your mind and heart and will come through this. All our love and thoughts goes to you.
♡
Wishing you Love Hope & Strength. xoxo
We join our prayers with hundreds of others who love and pray for you and your family. So glad the children will be with you this time. It will be easier for all of you to go through this if you are together. Love and prayers, Joyce and Sheff
Thanks for the update. Just prayed for you all. I know this is a tough season of life for you all but God has it covered. His strength and peace will sustain you. As James 1:2-4 says “Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” To God be the Glory.
April, so sorry to hear about the news from the biopsy. Sounds like a good idea to bring your family and to have everyone close to you as you go through treatment.
We are all thinking of you !
April and Jonathan, we are praying for you and ALL who will be on the Treatment Team at MD Anderson. There must be some others there who need to see what REAL FAITH looks like and to experience firsthand how GOD answers our prayers! We will be constantly thinking of you!!!!
I got on here fully expecting to see 0 new entries. My heart sank. I’m so sorry that this part of your journey hasn’t ended.
Hi April,
I’m Judith’s friend, one of her friends who’s been praying for you. I surely do wish this news would have been different but will keep right on praying and asking God for complete healing!!! He can do it!
Shirley
Yes…not the news any of us wanted to hear and I’m so sorry. Your positive attitude and determination are such a blessing and will help you get through this. I was talking to a friend recently, and she mentioned an acquaintance that had a recurrence of cancer but then after another round of treatment was in remission for nearly 20 years. I will pray this (or something even better!) is the outcome for you as well. I know it will be easier to have the kids with you and not worry about how they’re getting along at home. HUGS to you all!
Deborah just texted me the latest. She keeps me on track after all these years!
Well the good news is that Houston’s weather is lovely in the spring time and the wild flowers will bring a smile to your face. So take time out for some family drives once you get settled in, I think March is the best time as I recall. I’m thinking of you and praying for you and your entire team for wisdom in your treatment plan. Xoxo
My April and family,
I love the first comment above that begins, “Ok then…” What a perfect way to start a message in response to your update.
No, it’s not what we wanted, but now it’s time to get cracking.
You are so optimistic and courageous: already pointing out the increased options for treatment in the different targeted spot. Your faith has grown profoundly. What a beautiful example you are.
I’ve been praying in earnest for days, and will continue to do so. My mommy and daddy are following your blog, also, and they’ll lead prayers for you in their Sunday School class.
I know you have lots of logistics to sort out, but I’m wondering if I can fly to Texas and see you. Let me know your thoughts. I don’t want to bring germs, just love.
For now, and regardless, you have my heart. And prayers. I love you, Bunny Rabbit.
Love, Jenni (only for you) and fam
Praying for strength for the days to come, wisdom for your doctors, and that all the details of getting everyone to Texas will supernaturally fall into place.
Dear April–not the news anyone wanted to have you receive but many, many of us are sending our love, prayers, and support your way. I love that the kids will be coming along–yes, lots of extra planning but so nice for them and for you, to keep the family unit together! Lots of love and hugs–Deborah
April & Jonathan, Marie just called me to give me the update. I am praying for you all, as I always am. If you need me to do anything down here that I can help you with, let me know and I will find the right resources. If you want me to call my realtor and ask her about housing for temporary rental, I can do this as well. God has you in his hands. Prayers for wisdom, guidance and strength for all of you. The Condo’s
April,
I am friends with Judith and have been keeping up with your progress and praying for you and your family. Continued prayers and strength for all of you.
Ok then, we’re back and we’re here for you and your family. We’re already praying and we want you to tell us what else we can do to help.
So glad your family will be together. That will only help. This step has been planned out for you long ago so you know God’s been to your future already to work all of this out for good. But I know it’s tempting to be discouraged because it’s not what any of us would want. That’s what makes you a spiritual leader though. You have shown a willingness to submit to His plan in spite of your wishes. Most of us are not ready to do that yet, even when it’s easy. Thank you for your example. We’re praying you are healed quickly and that you and your family come home soon.