Most of you know that I was originally diagnosed with breast cancer in February, 2009. I found the lump because I was breastfeeding our baby at the time. I opted for a bilateral mastectomy and then waited three months for the pathology. We learned that I have a very rare form of cancer called “adenoidal cystic carcinoma.” When found in breast tissue, this type of cancer does not seem to spread. My oncologist was thrilled to tell us that I needed no other follow up treatment.
Four months later, I started having pain in my right side. I ignored it for another few months until I couldn’t stand up long enough to get dressed in the morning. Initial blood work and a biopsy confirmed that the breast cancer had metastasized to my liver. When we saw the scan, we were shocked to see that I had very little healthy liver.
I
immediately began a
regimen of weekly
We know that I will never be cured of cancer, and I will also need to have some kind of chemo maintenance for the rest of my life to suppress the tumors, but we are determined not to live in fear. As my wonderful oncologist, Dr. Romond, said, “You are not a statistic, you’re a person.”
Stay strong and get better!!
Posted by: Imene | 12/05/2009 at 08:03 PM
God Bless you and my you find and keep your stength. Know that you are loved!
Posted by: Maeghan | 12/06/2009 at 07:00 PM
I love that you are sharing your delicate and emotional journey with us and allowing us in. In return I hope we, as a group of women, can share some of our love and strength with you. The power of women coming together mindfully is an amazing medicine.
Posted by: Kristi | 12/07/2009 at 12:55 AM
Thank you all so much. This picture of my son makes me laugh--look at those teeth! He keeps me going every day. And you're so right, Kristi, never underestimate the power of women!
Posted by: Kelly | 12/07/2009 at 01:52 PM
Kelly, I admire your courage to decide not to live in fear. I just came across this quoter earlier today and thought of it when I read your update. Hope you like it.
Birds sing after a storm; why shouldn't people feel as free to delight in whatever sunlight remains to them?
Rose Kennedy
Merry Christmas, Carla
Posted by: Carla Devine | 12/10/2009 at 12:43 AM
I am praying for you
Kathy Brown
Posted by: Kathy Brown | 12/21/2009 at 11:33 AM
You are a true inspiration!
I found Kandyce on Facebook and just shared this with me.
I will be adding you to my daily prayers as well as our church.
My family has also been dealing with several members with stage 4 cancers, and it is so important to remember there is always hope! Keeping the faith for a cure, peace and love for you!
Francheska Andrews Anderson (your old friend from high school)
Posted by: Francheska Anderson | 01/12/2010 at 10:22 PM
Hi Kelly,
Feb 2011 I also found a lump while breast feeding. The doctor told me it was just a clogged milk duct. I went back in June 2011 and saw a different doctor who sent me for a mamogram the next day. It was breast cancer. In July I found out it had spread to my liver bones and lung. I just finished my last round of chemo this week and I have a CT Scan comming up in a couple of weeks. My numbers have improved so much the doctor thinks we may not see anything on the scan. I am praying! I have a 6 year old, 4 year old and a 1 year old.
I just wanted to let you know that I know what you have been through.
Posted by: Monica | 01/13/2012 at 11:58 AM