One step at a time

I'm sorry that I didn't get around to posting anything last week, but my first week after chemo was a little rough. However, this week has been going a little smoother and some of my energy has returned. I appreciate all of the kind thoughts, words, and prayers while I've been going through all of this. I am lucky to have such an amazing support system.

Love and prayers,
Holly

That took the wind out of my sails...

I know this post is a little later than some had hoped, but I needed the weekend to digest things. Last week was difficult. I had a lot of testing and found out that I have colon cancer that has traveled to my lung, bone, and lymph. I start treatment tomorrow. I hope not to have too many side effects to the medications. To be honest, there are times where I still hope to wake up from this nightmare. I appreciate everyone who has reached out. I know it might be frustrating when I don't answer right away, but please understand that this is difficult and I am trying cope as best as I can. Sometimes it's hard for me to re-hash things. I really appreciate all of the kind thoughts and prayers that everyone has sent, especially those who have included John. He's been incredibly supportive, but this has taken a toll on his as well. I've been in Lansing a lot spending time with John and his family. They have been incredibly helpful and our time together helps keep my spirits a bit higher. Think of me tomorrow as I start chemo. I'll update when I can. 

Love and prayers,

Holly

Ask and you shall receive

Throughout this whole process, I have discovered one main thing...I have AMAZING family and friends. I received some news that I am not ready to share just yet, but asked for thoughts and prayers and that's exactly what I got. I can not tell you guys how much it means to hear from you...either via facebook, text, or on here. I appreciate every comment, thought, and prayer. I have another day of testing tomorrow, then will meet with several doctors on Friday to discuss my treatment plan. I'm reaching out yet again to ask you to continue to pray and send good thoughts my way.

Love and prayers,
Holly

Sometimes, I feel like I'm on a roller coaster...

This past Saturday, I got between 5-6 inches cut off of my hair. I did this in anticipation of potentially losing my hair with chemo. However, I think it turned out much better than I had initially thought and if I don't lose my hair, it will be a welcome change. It also takes me like half the time to dry it. :)

I apologize for not posting sooner. Last week was a rough road. Day to day, and sometimes, hour by hour, my emotions go up and down. There are good moments, and not so good moments, but I imagine that is to be expected. What has kept me grounded is knowing that people out there care and are praying and sending good thoughts my way. I've also been sticking close to friends and family right now. They are my net to catch me when I stumble and fall.

I have a lot of testing scheduled this week, so I am asking for thoughts and prayers that the testing goes well and for good results as we move forward. I hope by the end of the week, we'll have a better idea of what's going on and maybe even get a treatment plan in place. However, this has been a slow process, and that was my hope for last week, so we'll see.

Again, I would just like to thank everyone for their kind words, thoughts, and prayers. It all helps and all makes a difference.

Love and prayers,
Holly

I'm sorry, say that again...

3 months ago when I developed a nagging cough, I would have never, EVER, thought one day I'd hear the doctor tell me I have cancer. I'll never forget hearing those words. I had been through testing all week trying to figure out the pneumonia I'd been diagnosed with was so persistent. To be honest, my mood had been sour from the constant wondering. I finally took a few minutes for myself and was at a local bookstore when I got the call. I was devastated. I kept asking the doctor if he was sure. Her persistently told me yes, despite my shock and disbelief. Once I hung up the phone, I dropped everything, fled to my car and cried my eyes out...then cried some more. Here, at 29 years old with a wedding on the horizon. How could this be happening?! I'll probably never know the answer. At this point, the journey is just beginning. I still have moments of disbelief, anger, sadness, hopelessness and worry. However, there is always, ALWAYS hope. These past few days, that is what I've been clinging to. Hope. Strength, Encouragement. and the Power of Positive Thinking. That is what I am asking for now. As I go through testing and treatment, I ask for patience, and God-willing, understanding. There are good days and bad days. Some days I feel like talking, other's are more quiet. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers. I will update on here as things progress, so feel free to check in for updates or to post positive thoughts and words. I get and read every one, even if I don't always respond. Thanks to everyone who has reached out, it makes this process a little easier knowing their is an army behind you.

Love and Prayers,
Holly