My big cancer appointments are coming up on the 20th of this month. I have MRI, CT scans, and blood draws all happening. After all of that, I see my doctor. It will be a long day, but I prefer that they put it all in one day so only one is wasted.
The last time I was in was December. At the time, my tumor marker was high, but they could see no sign of cancer on my scans. In fact, some things that had been on the watch list weren’t there.
I’m at the point in my journey that I keep getting warned that sometime in the near future, they will likely put me on a med that isn’t fun. The side effects are harsh. I was sure that December would be my time, but the scans looked good, and I was able to dodge the medicine for another three months. BUT…I had to keep a close eye on myself, and if anything changed or made me feel uncomfortable, I was to contact my doctor.
Then shortly after that December appointment, I noticed two small lumps in my scalp. I thought nothing of it. Then I still had them in January. I asked my two nurse daughters about them and showed them the lumps. Both looked at the bumps, felt, and prodded them. They both thought cyst. So I ignored them.
By the end of February, they were still there. Kayla was home, and I showed Kayla. She insisted that I go to the doctor.
So she watched the kids one of the days when they were all home and I snuck over to the NP I normally see.
She looked at them and thought cyst, maybe an infected hair follicle, but gave me the option to biopsy them. After talking about it, we both decided a biopsy would likely be best because they both showed up at about the same time, and my cancer doctor said to check out anything different.
So they biopsied the one on top of my head. They numbed it up and took a “punch” and extracted part of it so it can be sent to pathology.
When my NP was working on it, she said it was the right thing to biopsy it. There was no puss…there was a lot of blood. She didn’t see a sack for the cyst. Hmm. It was curious. I left with three or four staples in my head and a promise of results, possibly as soon as Wednesday of the following week. So all weekend I was waiting. Every time I moved my head, I could feel the staples. It was a reminder that I was waiting.
I have a picture of the staples in my head, but I’ll spare you that.
I finally got some news this morning…
It’s cancer.
The result came in at 8 am this morning. My NP called me a couple of minutes after I saw the results.
She is forwarding all the info to my cancer doctor in Iowa City, whom I see on the 20th. We’re both guessing they will add on head MRIs and CTs. I also messaged him. He’s great about answering, so hopefully I’ll hear something from him in the next day or two.
With the little I’ve looked it will likely involve a procedure to remove them too. Who knows?!
I told Carver and Gannon when they got home from school today. Gannon said, “How many TIMES are you going to have cancer??” Good question, dude. I guess if I keep having it, I am still living….so I guess with those options, I’ll keep having it.
Buck told his kids. Sweet Lilly said, “So that means we have to hug her softly?!?!?!?!” Oh my word…I’ll take any kind of hug the kiddos want to give me.
I’m okay with it all. I have known my cancer would continue to progress and be a problem. It’s just the next thing I need to tackle. It is a great comfort to know that this is why my tumor marker was high. Now we know and can deal with it. I’d rather this, than it just keep growing.
Kramer’s niece sent this to me. It’s perfect for today…
I love it…so here I go! Marching forth. It’s time to deal with another round of cancer.
This morning I sent you love and hugs. Now I’m adding more prayers . You are very loved. ❤️
Good afternoon Jo. I hope your feet are moving and you are “March”ing forth. I know you are because that’s the type of trooper you are. You don’t let things get you down in public. You are always upbeat and positive, but it’s okay for you to breakdown and then get right back up. We all have to breakdown sometime.
I’m praying for you Jo. You’ve got a “I’ll get you my little pretty” attitude and I love it.
I love you and God bless you. You have an excellent support system with your family and they are love you to the moon and back.
Blessings and hugs are on the way to you precious lady. You’re the bomb!!!
“Soft hugs” from your friends and readers.
You don’t know me, but I sure feel like I know you. And I admire your honesty and your grit and your pluck! I am just one of MANY of your readers who continues to keep you in her prayers.
Jo,
It has been 14 years since I kicked cancer in the butt.
When I was diagnosed (spelling) with cancer, I was in a bad place.
I had passed out and didn’t come to for a month.
The doctor told my husband I had so many problems that they may not be able to do the chemo.
They told my husband they would make be comfortable till I expired.
Here it is 14 years later and when I go for my blood test I still feel anxious in the pit of my stomach, so no mather how bad it sounds never give up.
People tell me there’s always someone with worse problems.
Gee I hope not !!!
I feel we must still have work to do on this planet.
There is only one that knows your destiny and when the time comes he will wait for you with open arms.
Thank you Lord.
Please take care,
We Love Your Stories
Thank you for the encouraging words!! 14 years is such a success story. I hope you have many more!
Jo, I admire your spunk, your honesty, and your go forth attitude. Your sharing not only increases those of us who support you with thoughts and prayers, but it helps remind me to be aware of the little changes in my body. I continue to think about you, your health, your family, and the positive life you lead.
You are a beautiful woman Jo and such a good example for many of us. I will remember you in my daily prayers. God bless you!!
I’m sorry you are dealing with this again. Keeping you in my prayers.
Jo, more prayers for you.
I’m just now reading the blogs today. Prayers and virtual hugs to you.
Hang in there Girl. You are going to make it. Some days might not be great, but you always have a good attitude and a great supportive family. We are all behind you too! Good Luck. .
Jo~ “soft hugs” oh the littles they speak from their heartstrings. God is your strength and shield. Each new day is a blessing of fresh abundant grace. Yes, you march forward as we are
…always praying with you✝️
Continuing prayers for you and your family. We all know what a fighter you are and we all love you.
Jo, I’m sorry you are dealing with this. Know that I continue to keep you in my prayers for a great news once more.
may tomorrow be your peaceful day.
I send you love
diana
You are an inspiration. Best attitude ever.
Sending you love and prayers! Your grandkids are the best! Hugs,
Love you, Jo. Your family is the best. I hope your next appointments give you a plan to march forth! I had a friend who had cancer, two bone marrow transplants. She had a good attitude, like you do. Her saying was “every day above ground is a good day.”
I’m so sorry you are going through all of this and am praying for your healing. I just found out about Arnie and I am also praying God sends you who he wants in your life dear Jo. Your strength in the last several years has touched me deeply and I love you and your family. I will continue praying for you all. ❤️
Oh Pam, Is there something I missed about Arnie? I sure hope nothing bad is going on for him or Jo that involves him and she has gained so much joy from their relationship. She has enough to think about and deal with right now without other problems showing up. She is quite a wondrous woman who certainly deserves a peaceful and happy life. Thanks
Meylonie…here is the post about Arnie. https://www.joscountryjunction.com/a-new-boyfriend/
I have been following your blog for a few years and enjoy your style of writing. I feel that I am right there beside you. I am saddened by your present cancer news. Pray that new tests, procedures, etc have the outcomes the doctors are hoping for. You are one super strong lady. Prayers for Pennsylvania.
Should be: Prayers “from” Pennsylvania.
You should design a cross stitch of that about going forth. I fell you can do it and it can give you inspiration every time you look at it!!
Should be feel not feld
“Soft Hugs” and prayers as you move forward to what comes. You are an inspiration.
Just continuing to send my love to you and prayers to God.
Thank you for keeping us posted.
You are so strong, Jo! I admire the strength you have shown thru all of this. Prayers for you and the family as you step thru this next phase of your journey. Love the “soft hugs” sentiment. We could all use some of those. Hugs all around!
I’m sorry you have another thing to deal with, but I will pray for wisdom and comfort, as well as healing.
Good morning Jo. I’m sorry this is your news and I’m grateful for your attitude of living life each day as it is gifted. I have family in a similar situation (different cancer source). Today is what we have so we make the most of it just as YOU have taught us.
I’m sad to learn you have more hurdles to face. I’m always so impressed with your attitude and grace in these situations. And such a wonderful family — you’re so fortunate in many ways. Sending you prayers from Wyoming.
More hugs and prayers, Jo.
Prayers from Oklahoma ! I think the cross stitch is a good idea ❤️
I don’t get the evening posts until the next morning but maybe that spreads out the prayers some. Because there sure are a lot of prayers coming your way. I am so grateful that you share these things with all of us. It gives us courage to deal with the challenges in our lives too. And perhaps a better way to face them. Thank you for being you!
Think about trading in your medical ailment bingo card for a new one. You’ve had already scored a straight line bingo and now are trying for a coverall win. Seriously…you face these obstacles with all that you’ve got and inspire us to do the same. You make a difference. Sending prayers from Illinois.
You should make a cross stitch of the march 4th picture I know you can. It will inspire you every time you stitch on it and when done it will inspire you every time you look at it.
Dearest Jo, I want to echo all the loving thoughts already shared. Sending prayers, hugs, encouragement and gratitude that we get to be blessed by your positive spirit! This June I hope to celebrate 40 years of cancer survival. I was only 35 years old and had 3 young children when I was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of uterine cancer. You never get over that feeling that every day is a precious gift, thank goodness, and I love seeing that spirit in you. Thanks for letting us share your joys and support you in your challenges.
~ Suzanne in Michigan
Love, thoughts and prayers have not ceased.
❤️
Your strength and tenacity are inspiring Jo. Keep on keeping on. Hugs and best wishes always…