On Monday, April 19th, 2010 our family was given some shocking news.
Over the course of about one week Maria's, mother of the family, stomach had gone from post-menopausal to "[looking] like she's 8 months pregnant," said Ron, father of the family. She was admitted to Concord Hospital in New Hampshire where "they took great care of [us]," reflected Maria.
After a CT Scan (I think that's what it was - I am slowly learning all the terminology for everything) and draining of over a half gallon of fluids (pretty sure a laparotomy but could have been laparoscopy) from her tiny little 5'1", normally 110 pound body, the doctors were convinced it is cancer. The biopsy is still in progress so we do not yet have a precise diagnosis.
After reading forums on cancer online and realizing how empowering, settling, enlightening, heartwarming and real they can make the situation for you, which helps one deal and cope with the situation:
I, Monica, daughter of Maria, am creating this blog as an outlet for each member of our family, if they choose, to submit writings on their experience throughout the process.
It is my hope that this blog will not only help all of us bond together by processing our feelings together but also will help other families and patients diagnosed with cancer.
Together, we shall persevere. Thank you everyone for your support throughout this process.
Gosh, mom, Monday seems like 2 months ago after everything that I've experienced this week. I wonder what it must feel like for you?
We love you so much, mom.
