Hi Family and friends, 

It's been 4 months since my revision surgery and I'm still on the mend but finally feel like I'm making some progress toward rebuilding my body post-cancer. In January, I joined the Cancer WellFit program again which is helping me recuperate and plan a fitness regimen moving forward (super important for recurrence prevention). The recovery has been harder and slower than I expected though. I've still had a lot of nerve pain from the fat grafting, which is less common for such a "minor" procedure and I think my poor body is out of whack after the last couple years. Aside from that, I've been dealing with chronic pain throughout my upper body. After going down the rabbit hole, including a referral for an Echo Stress test ordered by my lymphedema doctor, I likely have Thoracic Outlet Syndrome from an old kickboxing injury plus surgeries and ranch work. I've been busy going to physical therapy, acupuncture, and the chiropractor trying to get that under control and I'm finally starting to feel some relief.

I also returned to the ranch but am only doing side work now so as not to exacerbate my symptoms and so far, so good. I really enjoy being outdoors around the horses and it's nice to have a routine where I feel helpful again. Otherwise, Brandon was supposed to start a new job at the beginning of March but of course there's been a significant delay and we're in limbo once again. Lately, Trooper has started having seizures too, which is terrifying and emotionally draining so all that to say, stress is still taking its toll on us and we feel like we just can't get out of survival mode.

Next week, I'm headed back to Stanford for check-ups with all my surgeons, my routine MRI, the stress test, and chest CT. I have 5 appointments over the course of 3 days and considering Trooper's health, I may go by myself. While there's numerous places I can stay, it was convenient to be close to the hospital for my last surgery and I’d like my own space to decompress because the scanxiety is exhausting. A family friend had generously donated points for that stay but of course, the dates are blocked this time so now I’m reaching out to my wonderful community for support again.

If you're willing to donate or share my fundraiser, it will help us pay for the medical lodging, meals, and travel expenses. I really wish I didn't have to keep asking for help but every donation, no matter how small, truly helps with the financial stress of it all. It also reminds me that I still have many people who are in my corner, despite all the ones who have chosen to walk away.

Cancer is a roller coaster that has completely leveled me but I'm determined to take my life back from this horrible disease and I'm starting to feel small glimmers of myself again. Thank you for hanging in there with me.

With love and gratitude,
Lindsay

www.account.venmo.com/u/linzjoytaylor
www.supportnow.org/lindsay-elkins-taylor
www.gofundme.com/f/help-lindsay-joy-beat-cancer