Friday, June 18, 2010

Here we go...

Hello everyone,

Nicole and I first want to say thanks for everyone's support thus far, we love you guys!

A few months ago Nicole noticed the skin changing on her right breast. There was a distinct 'depression' of the skin over time. She showed me about a month ago and I just said go get it checked out and be done with it.

We got the diagnosis about 3 hours ago, invasive mammary carcinoma, aka breast cancer. The problem with breast cancer is that there are so many different kinds and types and treatments that we don't know what step 2 is, other than more doctors and tests and anxious times.

As of me typing this, I just got off the phone with the Radiologist, and he said a few things:

1. The existing tumor is small.
2. There is no evidence of lymph node swelling
3. This diagnosis is consistent with 'intermediate' cancer - meaning it is not the most aggressive.

All of these are positive. Combine that with the fact that young, strong, healthy women always beat this thing, and there's a lot to be thankful for.

According to the radiologist, we already know who the surgeon will be, and will be meeting with a host of specialists over the coming weeks to determine the status of the cancer and the best treatments. During surgery they're able to test a lot of the surrounding tissues and lymph nodes, so we'll know even more later.

So for now, that's really all we know. I will be updating this regularly to keep everyone in the loop, so check back on us from time to time.

2 comments:

  1. Nicole, Steve (and family). You are certainly in our prayers and please know that we are available to you for anything / anytime. Nicole, you have always been one of my two favorite nieces which just makes it that much easier at times like this to give you all the attention you deserve. We love you and are here for you. Uncle Scott & Elaine

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