My phone rang.  I did not recognize the phone number but decided to answer it anyway. All I remember is the word “cancer.”  I asked the doctor “if I should be freaking out.” Surely there was a mistake, I thought. The first month was a blur. I was mad at God, but at the same time I knew He was with me every step of the way. There were times I yelled at God, but He took it and even carried me when I thought I could not continue, He carried me.

My phone rang.  I did not recognize the phone number but decided to answer it anyway. All I remember is the word “cancer.”  I asked the doctor “if I should be freaking out.” Surely there was a mistake, I thought. The first month was a blur. I was mad at God, but at the same time I knew He was with me every step of the way. There were times I yelled at God, but He took it and even carried me when I thought I could not continue, He carried me.

What followed was a fury of scans, tests, doctors, and my life as I knew it was gone. God was there every step of the way though. That was April 2011. I was diagnosed with carcinoid cancer.  This is a rare type of cancer that is slow growing and no cure is available. I had never heard of it, including my family and friends. At this time, I knew I had two choices: give up or fight with God and my family and friends on my side.  I decided to fight. I love kids, which is a good thing since I am a teacher. I wanted to still try to leave my fingerprints on those little ones.  In addition, I want to be a grandma. (I wish my children would get on that!) Ha!

My treatment plan was really a plan to try to slow the tumors down and hopefully prevent new tumors from growing. This required me to receive a shot of a drug called sandostatin. I continue to receive this shot even now. What happens next is still to be decided, but I am still alive and fighting.

So many blessings have come my way because of cancer. I know it sounds funny. It is true. I have met so many people who have come into my life! The Godby’s are an example of people who have come along side me.  They encourage, support, cry, laugh, and love me. They enhance my life. I have learned to depend upon God. My relationship with Him has grown.

I know that cancer is just a word. It does not define me, but it has changed me for the better. I still have fears concerning tests and treatments, and of course what the future may hold. I know that I am not alone on this journey for it really does take “a village.”  Together we can be courageous and fight!