Saturday, February 7, 2009

Potholes

Some people describe the challenges that are thrown at us in life as speed bumps. And while I do agree that some can be categorized as such, there are other challenges we face that are more like potholes. They're dark and mucky and jarring, and you usually don't see them coming. Still, like speed bumps, you get past them, and maybe end up a little more wary, and a little more appreciative of the smooth, even stretches in the road of life.

I realize that what I last posted a few days ago was cryptic and have since learned that it left a whole lot more people wondering and guessing than I would have imagined. I didn't think that many people actually read this thing! Anyway, I apologize for worrying anyone. It wasn't my intention; my only goal at the time was to purge just a little bit.

So here's the deal. Michael was diagnosed with colon cancer this past week. Pretty much. We haven't gotten the results of the biopsies yet, but the doctor is pretty sure that what he saw is malignant, and is so sure, in fact, that Michael already has an appointment with an oncologist on Monday and will likely be starting a 6-week course of chemo and radiation (simultaneously) late in the week or early the following week. Eventually he will also have to have surgery.

This sucks. It's scary scary scary. It's devastating. I don't know . . . I guess I arrogantly thought that I/we had paid our dues, that I/we have been faced with enough challenges and heartbreak over the years. But nope, I guess it just doesn't work that way. There have been many, many tears shed in our house over the last week, and I'm sure there will be many, many more.

But you know what? We're going to fight this, and we're going to beat it. And we're going to come out the other side, stronger, a little more wary, and a little more appreciative of the smooth stretches in the road of life.

Fuck cancer.

25 comments:

Carla said...

I'm weeping. I'm joining you in saying "fuck cancer".

Nicole O'Dell said...

Aw, sweetie, I missed the last post. I'm sorry--well, for missing your post but much more for what you're facing. Damn. Damn. Damn.

Damn.

Anonymous said...

You can fight this, be confident that you will win this battle. It doesn’t matter if you don’t believe in them, prayers are very powerful. I will be praying for Michael, you and your family.

SunflowerStories said...

oh man! never would of guessed this news. i'm so sorry for the bad news, but i will join you in chorus, "fuck cancer!"

Kristin said...

Fight! I hate cancer. We are her when you need to "talk/vent"

My name is Sarah said...

Lisa, This is Joyce. I am stunned and speechless. Of course you, your husband and your family are in our thoughts. I know nothing I can say will ease your breaking hearts right now. Cancer definately sucks.

Leigh Anne said...

my heart aches for you lisa! i'm sorry you guys are facing this! I hate that stupid disease! Just last week, I told my husband I want to donate a great deal of money to the acs. i don't want my children's children to have to deal w/ this dumb disease!

kick cancer's butt you guys!

we are thinking of you...

and i'm here for venting needs as well!

The Sanchez Family said...

I'm so sorry Lisa. That is terrible news. I cannot imagine what you are going through. My thoughts are with you.

Cheryl said...

Lisa I am so deeply sorry.I am in tears.I know what your husband means to you.I know because my husband is my bestfriend and I would be terrified if he were to get cancer.I will be praying for Michael's healing and peace for your family.Hugs dear lady.

Anonymous said...

FUCK cancer....gonna kick cancer's ass.

Julie said...

I've been checking in to see what was going on (this is Julie from preg.org who reads your blogs regularly). I'm SO sorry that this is the news you were waiting on. I don't use the 'f word' often, but I will join the "fuck cancer" chorus, too. You will all be in my thoughts.

sakun said...

hi lisa...it's saku...i read your blogs always...i have checked constantly since I read your last post.even checking facebook to see if you had been on. I was so afraid it was you or michael or one of the kids that might be sick. no words can provide comfort right now or take away the fear...please know how much you & michael mean to me & know I will be sending love & good thoughts to you guys. be strong, fuck cancer....michael will get thru this you'll see...tell him to keep laughing...please let me know how i...we....can help....!!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

I can't believe life has thrown this at you as well. You are all in my thoughts and wishes and sincerely, sincerely, sincerely hope you stop this thing in its tracks.

F**k cancer - abso-blody-lutely.

Eternal Lizdom said...

Look at the pouring of love and support!

I'm so sorry to hear this news...

K*senia said...

There are no words. I wish I knew what to say... I will keep Micheal, you, and your family in my thoughts.

Valerie said...

That truly sucks. You and your family are in my thoughts!

Anonymous said...

This is Kristen, I can't log on for some reason...

Crap! I am at a loss for words. All I can think right now is "beat the shit outta this" and "FUCK cancer"!

Anonymous said...

Oh man Lisa!
I am sorry that you are facing this, but I am sure that Michael will get through it!
I will keep him and your family in my thoughts!!!
Kick the C's ass!!

Anonymous said...

Hey Lisa, it's Asha.
I don't know what to say... I am speechless. I will be thinking of you and Michael and the kids. I wish you all strength to get through it. Why do bad things happen to good people? Makes me wanna scream!!

You all will get through it, he will be healed, I believe!

Take care, love. Asha.

Anonymous said...

Oh Lisa! I just don't know what to say besides the way you put it.."FUCK CANCER!!!!" (((HUGS)))

Alyson
(alyny from PO)

Sarah said...

I agree "Fuck Cancer"! You are a fighting family and you will get through this.

Kara said...

I am so sorry that you have to go through this. I hope they caught it early. He'll kick cancer's ass for sure though.

Amanda said...

Fuck cancer, indeed. Thinking good healthy things for Michael, you and your whole family. You WILL get through this. xo

Unknown said...

Dear Lisa,

Fuck cancer! I'm with you. Charlotte F.

Unknown said...

Oh Lisa and Michael......fuck cancer indeed. I do know that you have so much strength and resolve that you will carry your husband through this and he will fight this beast.

All my love.......