In January 2011, a couple of months after turning age 51, I found out I had a meningioma tumor in my brain. Had surgery…it was benign (thank God) and had a follow-up gamma knife radiation treatment in June of the same year to remove a tiny piece that was left behind. In December, I went for my last checkup and all was well!
The beginning of the next month, January 2012, almost a year to the same day, I found out I had ovarian cancer. My gynecologist at first thought it was fibroids from having irregular bleeding prior to my visit. An ultrasound was scheduled to confirm and it showed masses on both ovaries. I was sent to have the CA125 test done and went back the following day to my doctor for results. Normal numbers for that test are 0-30, mine was 250+. He referred me to a specialist, a gynecologist/oncologist, but told me that no matter the outcome, he wanted me to stay positive because it is very important to do so. A hysterectomy was scheduled with the specialist and after surgery I found out I had stage 3 ovarian cancer. Since it wasn’t contained, I had to have 6 chemo treatments as a precaution, with the last one ending 6/5/12.
I have 3 daughters and during this time and the first half of this year, I was also planning two bridal showers (March/May) and two weddings for my two oldest daughters (June/July-a month apart). I was also planning two graduations, one high school (for my youngest) and one college (for my middle daughter marrying in July). Both graduations were in the same week in mid-May.
Yes, it was a busy first half of the year! People always commented on how they didn’t know how I managed to do it all. It helped that I wasn’t sick during any of my treatments and I had minimal fatigue. I also pointed my finger toward heaven and said, “It is God and lots of prayers that
gave me the strength for everything and in planning all of the events for my family this year”. I thank HIM every day for allowing me to be here and to be there to enjoy those precious moments in our lives. I look forward to enjoying more moments like these.
The picture of me on the right is from my first daughter’s wedding in mid-June. My last treatment was 2 weeks before then. Two days before my second daughter’s wedding in mid-July, I had a follow-up checkup since treatments were finished and I found out that there was no evidence of disease. Yes, it was a double celebration weekend!
I still have a long way to go with lots of tests and checkups to follow. I plan to remain positive, keep the faith, continue with lots of prayers, keep up the fight, and enjoy every day to its fullest because each day is a special gift!
Darleen B
Louisiana
Submitted 10-4-2012
The informational content of this article is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.
This article is intended to convey general educational information and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.
You are an amazing example of a Warrior! Love ya my “invisible” friend.