Man Plans, God Laughs

We’d planned on posting updates whenever Ann was about to start on a new phase of her treatment just like we did seven years ago during her first breast cancer. Unfortunately, it’s been harder to do this time around for at least two reasons.

• Things Are Moving Faster
  Our research doesn’t start from scratch this time so it doesn’t take as long to make informed decisions. Moreover, we are adjusting emotionally much faster. We didn’t spend any time on denial this time; we started with anger and quickly moved to acceptance as we find what Nello calls the “silver lining to the cancer cloud.”
• We have Alison
  Caring for Alison continues to take much of our time—as it should!—so we are left with less time to write than in 2003.

So, we’ve been backfilling with postings about what has already happened instead of posting information about what is about to happen.

Here’s What We’ve Done So Far

Since we haven’t done a good job of chronicling Ann’s treatment as it occurred, here are the highlights of what’s happened so far with links to back posts, if any:

Thank You for Your Support

Since Ann’s diagnosis, we’ve received countless cards and emails from you expressing concern and offering to help us by providing meals, babysitting, or anything else that we need. Additionally, for many days UPS, USPS, and FedEx delivered cookies, flowers, fruit, clothing, and other items to sustain our bodies and spirits. These were all wonderful surprises.

You’ve helped us maintain some degree of normalcy during the last month and a half.

Thank you for everything!

Finally, we want you to know that the Executive Director of Alison’s pre-school, Glencoe Junior Kindergarten (GJK), is participating in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer, a fundraising event. According to their website, the money will be ”awarded to local, regional and national breast cancer organizations to support five areas of the breast cancer cause, including: awareness and education; screening and diagnosis; access to treatment; support services; and, scientific research.”

Please consider further supporting Ann and others who are and have yet to experience breast cancer making a donation through her web page.

Thank you again for all your help.

Nello & Ann

Posted by Nello at May 13, 2010 9:15 PM

Comments

1.  

2. On May 14, 2010 2:20 PM, Laura Fantom said:

   Hang in there Ann!! I leave for Europe on the 23 returning weekend of June 5th. First treatment will be done and you'll be enjoying the summer as much as possible I hope.
   Keep in touch.
   Laura

3. On May 14, 2010 2:27 PM, Debbie and Bob Braman said:

   What an excellent synopsis of Ann's treatment! We continue to keep her and all of your family in our prayers. We send our best wishes that the treatments go smoothly and deliver the much anticipated success. Bob and Debbie

4. On May 14, 2010 2:27 PM, Kelly said:

   Good luck Ann. We are thinking about you and miss you around the office. Let me know if I can help in any way!

   Take care,

   Kelly

5. On May 14, 2010 9:47 PM, Chuck & Cathy Ripp said:

   Dear Ann & Nello & Alison,
   We send you our prayers a thoughts of support and love as you enter this next phase of treatment. We hope you will find the strength and courage to face the challenges ahead, and that you will be comforted knowing you are are loved and cared for by family & friends. We commend you for your courage and anticipate a successful treatment.
   Love & Prayers,
   Chuck & Cathy

6. On May 15, 2010 7:02 AM, Sara Zawila said:

   Ann, you are in my prayers as you start chemo next week! I'm sending positive thoughts out to your wonderful family!

7. On May 15, 2010 11:44 AM, Holly Kerr said:

   We have you in our thoughts always. I'll call to see if you need help on the days you have chemo- a ride to the hospital, etc.

8. On May 15, 2010 4:44 PM, dorothy sybert said:

   Ann, I think of you almost every day as you go through treatments again. I hope and pray for success, which of course you will have.

9. On May 15, 2010 7:29 PM, David Briars said:

   Hi Nello and Ann,

   Thank you for sharing what is happening with you regarding the various treatment plans and testing.

   Coming through the announcements and scheduling is the devotion to each other, and support of each other, you two have.

   You are inspiring.

   Keep on working the program, and I'll know the results will continue to get better and better.

   Best,
   Dave n' Crew
   

10. On May 15, 2010 10:44 PM, kelley hughes-liao said:

    Thinking of you three. If Alison wants a change of pace and would like to play with Iris just say the word and we'll come up for a visit!

    Kelley

11. On May 18, 2010 5:54 PM, Gloria Braman said:

    Dear Ann,
    You have been in my thoughts since we first learned of the return of the cancer. I can hardly imagine the shock
    it must have been... so long after your recovery! I am sorry to be so far from you, Bill and Alison, and unable to lend a hand, but we will be thinking, praying and following your progress, and cheering for you!
    
    Love,
    Gloria and Bob

12. On May 18, 2010 6:24 PM, Ron Dirsmith said:

    It is so precious and thoughtful of you to keep us in the loop of what is happening. We send you all our love and support your extraordinary efforts.

    Suzanne and Ron

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