4/19/24 - In late March, I received an unexpected diagnosis of colon cancer. 

What initially began as intermittent upper abdominal pain after my gym workouts led to several medical consultations. Despite normal bloodwork results and many other diagnostics, I persisted in finding answers, ultimately leading to the discovery of a mass.

Needless to say, the news came as a shock to us. I'm in good health, and most risk factors don't apply to me; however, there is a history of this disease in my family.

In mid-April, Duane and I met with one of the top surgeons at Vanderbilt University Medical Center to discuss the next steps. I will be undergoing surgery in May, pending the result of an upcoming MRI scan, which hopefully will rule out metastasis. Details regarding staging and possible adjuvant chemotherapy will be determined post-surgery.

In addition to medical treatments, I am using holistic methods in this fight.

I’ll be in the hospital for several days, and recovery will take about six weeks. Several family members and my friend Shelley will rotate coming out here to Nashville to support us. My mother was just here for over a week, which was enormously helpful and comforting.

I am so blessed to have Duane as my husband, best friend, and partner in this life.

In addition to my recovery, our priority is our children. Since January, I've been homeschooling both of them while continuing to work part-time as a writer and editor for Pacific Union College. However, in light of recent events, I've stepped back from my writing work to be more available to Spencer and Abby.

Truthfully, I have been gripped by fear many times over the last few weeks. I remember being in this place before, particularly when our children were first diagnosed with autism, and I didn’t know what the future held.

But God has been faithful, and He has always made a way. Our kids have come such a long way since those early years. As we have on their journeys, we will look for the gifts and joy along the way of this one, too.

In difficulties like this, we truly begin to see what matters most and what is superficial. I’ve been given new eyes to see all the blessings and the beauty in each new day.

I find comfort in knowing God is with us and guiding us with His mighty hand. I know He will hold me fast.

Friends and family, please keep us in your prayers. While I’m not taking many phone calls at this time, I welcome texts and messages of encouragement and prayer.

Some people have been inquiring about supporting us with meals, etc. We will share information about that soon.

We have been so blessed by the outpouring of love, prayers, and messages from our family, friends, and colleagues. 

Sending you all my love and deepest gratitude,

Laura 💕🙏🏻