I still cannot believe that a year ago I was recovering form major cancer surgery, wondering what 2010 would be like for me. I didn't know how I was going to be feeling and didn't know if I would still be here today. Hearing the diagnosis of cancer in the fall of 2009 is still like a blur to me. I have come so far since that day and feel blessed beyond all means. My life means more to me now and I have become closer to God and the ones I love.
January I was fresh from the surgery, having my whole abdomen split open, removing 2 large tumors, 3/4 my stomach, 2 sections of my intestines, my right ovary, rerouting my intestines, 19 lymph nodes and burning the cancer from my liver, I wasn't sure what was next. To my amazement I healed wonderfully, I am doing great, take an injection every 3 weeks and live a very full and active life. Right then and there I decided there would be nothing I could not do and nothing was going to be left undone in my life. I have done so many new things in my life and have had some great adventures. I have stepped out of my comfort zone and have explored all my options in life.
February 4th I had my 55th birthday. I didn't think I would be here to celebrate it. It was probably one of the best birthdays I have ever had.
March, spring is in the air. I felt like I was born a new person, breathing the spring air and preparing for the summer to come.
April, not a fool, just someone who loves to have fun and appreciates every day of my life.
May, the smell of new grass, flowers popping out the ground and the birds singing. It felt like I had never felt this way before.
June, digging in the dirt, planting vegetables and flowers. I have done this in the past but never had this energy before.
July, having friends over for BBQ's, watching the garden grow, mowing the lawn, feeling the heat. Grandchildren coming to visit. I loved every minute of it.
August, the crops are mature, almost ready to harvest. The grass is changing, signs of fall are approaching. Haven't I noticed this before? Feels like the first time to me.
September, children going back to school, crops being harvested, trees turning colors, the smell of autumn in the air. Loving the cooler temps and all of God's glory as our season changes. My eyes can hardly take it all in.
October, my husband Gordon and I celebrated our 29th anniversary together. He has been so supportive of me and loves me. He has been there for me when I didn't know if I would be here to celebrate another anniversary. Taking the grandchildren to the pumpkin patch to pick out our pumpkins, I felt like a child myself.
November, one year after my surgery I had in 2009. Spent 8 days in Iowa City, doctors were unsure of my kind of cancer until the surgery was done. It is such a rare kind, I was in advanced stages of cancer since it had spread to my liver. Eight days later I walked out of the hospital feeling like a new person. They got it all they said and no chemo, only an injection which prevents new cancer cells from growing. Tears of joy, thanks be to God. Thanksgiving this year was wonderful.
December, Christmas is here, I am here. Spending time with my family whom I love so much, I didn't know if I would be here today to be with them all. God is not done with me yet. Watch out 2011 because it is going to be more glorious than 2010! Peace and love be with you all.
