Summary of Karen’s cancer journey

Karen’s original diagnosis of Clear Cell Carcinoma (a rare and aggressive uterine cancer) came in February 2020.  It was 100% contained. She had a radical hysterectomy, did some alternative therapies and lived an active, healthy life until the turn of the year 2026. Around that time, she developed some symptoms, most notably swelling of her lower extremities. In February, testing confirmed that the cancer had returned. She began treatment immediately. Part of her treatment was IV therapy every week day at a location more than 100 miles from home. To do this, she stayed with her aunt or her sister who lived nearby. 

By mid-March she was able to get a PICC line inserted which enabled her to do the IV therapy at home. 

In May, scans showed a tumor in her pelvis which was 6x5x4 inches. Each successive scan shows growth. 

In early June, they were shocked to be told that it was inoperable. An embolization was performed to cut off as much of its blood supply as possible. However, they cautioned her that it would most likely be a palliative procedure and the tumor would rebuild blood vessels to sustain itself. By the end of June when she received her first blood transfusion, her hemoglobin was 4.5 g/dl (normal range = 11.2-15.7 g/dl) Low hemoglobin had made it impossible to continue IV therapy. 

In early July, she got palliative care to assist her in pain management. She has had procedures to remove fluid from around her lungs and from her abdomen. At the end of July, Karen received a second blood transfusion and she thoroughly enjoyed nearly a week of renewed energy doing some light housework. The benefits were short lived as her hemoglobin continues to drop. As she continues to weaken, we find comfort in the assurance that God holds her in the palm of His hand. We are so grateful that she is mostly comfortable. Though weak in body, her spirit is quite alive. She remains happy to connect with her world through phone calls, texts and visits.