Emily met with her Oncologist today and reviewed more chemotherapy scenarios. Much like drinking from a water hose, these necessary conversations can feel like the "Hypothetical Olympics" while she awaits yet more test results before the next treatment puzzle piece can land. 

Cancer is funny like that. You're hit with shocking diagnosis, then enter a revolving season of tests and waiting, more tests and more waiting. With each passing appointment, hoping for an exhale of an official plan to rid this cancer once and for all. And while you're incredibly grateful for the knowledge of these advanced medical tests in 2024, nothing can prepare you for the mental roller coaster. And that's where Emily sits today.

She did get the genetic test results back today, confirming that she has the BRCA 2 gene mutation, just like me (her dashing young sister writing these updates). So it appears we're shaping up to be the twins people thought we were all along :)

Emily and I want to pause in this update and remind you, if you have a history of Breast Cancer in your family (mother or father's side) we urge you to talk to your OBGYN about being tested for genetic risks. The BRCA genetic test can tell you if you are high risk for various cancers, including breast cancer. And to know your risk, is to beat your risk. It's true what they say "early detection saves lives" and knowing if you're high risk pre-approves you for early and frequent screenings. No one knows better than a young mom how difficult it is to find time for your own doctor's appointment, but taking this step could save you a lot of headache down the road if you are predisposed to certain cancers. 

Back to regular programming, our next HUGE prayer request is that her Oncotype Score comes back between 0-16, which would mean NO chemotherapy needed and she would go straight to Radiation. A score of 17 or higher would result in needing Chemotherapy + Radiation. Passing over Chemo completely would be SUCH a blessing! Those results should come back in 2 weeks. 

In the meantime, she's continuing to heal from her bilateral mastectomy and lymph node removal 2 weeks ago tomorrow. She feels stronger each day, but is learning the balance of pushing herself a little more, but not too much that she sets herself back. It's a delicate line to walk! 

She continues to reiterate that your fresh meals arriving on her doorstep, the ease of groceries you have provided via Instacart gift cards, and rest of knowing the "dust can wait" for a monthly housecleaning you all have gifted her have been a life saver. Each one of your continued prayers for her complete healing are being felt!

We will continue to keep you updated when we have "new news" to share. We love you all dearly, friends and family!

Will you take a moment to leave an encouraging message for her this evening? She's standing in the limbo between the biggest surgery of her life and what the official treatment plan will look like. Let's distract her with all the encouraging notes!!

"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:29-31