How's Your Breast Cancer Doing Today?

If there was a cutest moment in this cancer experience, it happened this weekend – twice! My six-year old stepson, Ethan, knows I have breast cancer. He’s seen my drain tube, peeked at my incision sites and has gone out to celebratory dinner with us after I got my drain removed. We have kept him in the “know” about what’s going on, but have been careful not to overload him with information. He’s aware that I’m “sick,” but for the most part I’ve looked and acted pretty much like he’s used to, so life’s pretty normal as far as he’s concerned.

It was this weekend though when Ethan and I were chatting at his flag football game on Saturday and again on Sunday when he called to wish me a Happy Mother’s Day. Out of the blue, in an attempt, I imagine, to keep our conversation rolling, Ethan found something more to talk about ... “Soooo... Lisa – How’s your breast cancer doing today?” The look on his face (totally serious) and the tone of his voice (almost Peter Griffin-like)were priceless.

It’s one of those moments that I think and smile about over and over again. Lisa

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-MESSAGES-

LOL I can just hear Ethan doing a 'Peter Griffin' voice and saying that! That Nat and his Family Guy cartoons! How funny...

Hi Lisa It's been a while since I posted a message but please know I think of you daily. The little things in life, like Ethan's heartfelt concern, are what make this life so fabulous! I'm glad you are able to enjoy them. I love you, C.

Ethan! What a treat to have an update during the week!!! I love that little guy! You give him a hug for me this weekend, and tell him I can't wait to see him soon. I'd say that maybe I'll see him this weekend, but...I have this ridiculous thought that because I was contagious last weekend that I might be that way this weekend. The tonsillitis is about cleared up, and I have enough antibiotics that I glow with germ-freeness. I feel this little sinus thing going on and it's as if I catch myself with...oops! don't go near Lisa! Next thing you know, I could cut my finger and then think...Oops! Don't go near Lisa...I might be contagious. I think I'm feeling a little OCD! (I'm calling it "overloaded cognitive disorder".) Actually, I know it's me just being protective and not wanting to pass along any germs you way. Have a great rest of the week! Million hugs, M.

"Kids Say the Darndest Things!" Lisa - You are much too young to remember Art Linkletter, but he used to have a show and I don't remember much about it, except that he had one segment where he talked to kids and they said the craziest things. They were incredibly honest and very funny! Sounds like Ethan could have been a guest!

My next 2 weeks are really crazy with EOY LPAC's, but just know that I'll be thinking of you and praying for you - even if I don't stop to write! I know you are getting ready to start chemo - so just consider yourself hugged and I hope you can feel all the love coming your way! m.

What a story! That is a really really cute story about Ethan, if not a little bittersweet. I've been so engaged reading your thoughts, beautifully and honestly written. Thank you for sharing so openly and letting us in on your journey. Sending love and strength, K. (and D.)

late night...just thinking of you! Hello...I haven't posted in a few days so I thought I would send you some much needed ((((HUGS)))) - I say much needed because I could use one of your hugs now!!! :)

This weekend was so beautiful - I spent a lot of time outdoors. I even got a bit sunburned on my shoulders and cheeks! But it felt nice to have a warm breeze and a few drops of rain this afternoon.

I hope this week goes well for you. Keep us updated and we'll keep praying for you to have strength, health, peace and continued blessings. XOXO, M. :)

You are the "greatest" Ever since I saw you at Goodson a few weeks back, you have been in my thoughts and prayers. It was wonderful seeing you again and I so admire your strength in the midst of this adversity, which I know you will conquer. God bless you every step of the way. K. B.

Checking in... Hi Li - Just a quick note from South Africa to say hello and let you know we think of you often (Kelly and me). Africa is beautiful...as long as you stay out of the cities and villages!! We had a blast at Kruger National Park, but we visited a local community and it was pretty sobering. We have pictures and video...you wouldn't believe the schooling conditions. Funny thing is, all the kids are running around with smiles on their faces, playing games, teasing each other...just the stuff that little kids should be doing. I guess when you have nothing to compare against things seem good. That visit I think (I'm still processing a lot of what I saw) changed my life.

Sounds like you are starting to get back into a more normal routine, well, as normal as possible considering everything you're dealing with. Kelly is really looking forward to coming down for her visit in July. I think she'll need a break from me by then so the timing is perfect. She mentioned something the other day about "throttling" someone and it might have been in reference to me!! Take care. Say hello to Ethan and Nat for me. Love ya, G.

Shalom. I was saddened to learn why we haven't seen Nat around the Jewish Federation lately. Although you and I haven't had a chance to meet yet, I wanted you to know that I am thinking about you and will remember you in my prayers. Sixteen years ago, when I actually worked at MD Anderson, I was diagnosed with a gynecological form of melanoma. Fortunately I discovered my cancer early and only had to have surgery. My brother Mark wasn't as lucky. Three years ago a doctor misdiagnosed his cancer (told Mark twice that he had hemorrhoids)and he too ended up with an advanced stage 3 disease. I'll never forget July 4th weekend calling everyone I knew trying to get my brother into Anderson. He was in Houston and I was in Boston. Thank G-d we got him admitted. Like you, Mark is a marathon runner. He ran his first post-C marathon last January and only missed qualifying for Boston by about 10-minutes. Anderson is an amazing place! We are blessed to have access to world class care...even though it may be the last place you feel like going to as you wage this battle. I've read some of your blog and am confident that your wonderful spirit will see you through. Keep your eye on the goal! B'Shalom

Hey, Lisa Please let me know if there's anything you need over the summer. It's been such a treat to have you back at school; I'm certainly going to miss my daily dose of Lisa.

One more thing - I appreciate your thank you notes - but enough already. I have four sitting on my desk from you. I know you're thankful. You need not send more notes. :) Your momma raised you right - but enough.

You're in my prayers daily. Hope you can feel that. Love, D.