Tuesday, November 09, 2010

Talk About Your Alternative Ending...

April. Was my last post really in April? Well, I do have some news to share but its certainly not what I was expecting. I had surgery in June to remove a cyst from my ovary. My old friend endometreosis had reared its ugly head again. And thankfully it did because in addition to the cyst the surgeon discovered a tumor and I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Needless to say we were floored. Fortunately the tumor was earlier stage. Not so fortunately my ongoing treatment includes chemotherapy. I recovered quickly from the surgery and started chemo at the end of July. This week I will have my 6th of 6 cycles. I have been tolerating chemo well. My hair not so much. I have invested in many pairs of BIG earrings in hopes that they will be a distraction from my bald head! And hey, I haven't had to shave my legs in over two months. I have had tremendous support from my family and friends. This has helped enormously. I have maintained a positive outlook and life surges ahead. Really, who has time to be sick with two 5 (almost 6) year olds!

We had a fabulous summer despite my diagnosis. We spent the 4th at Lake Canandaugia with family, visited Aunt Barbara and Uncle Charlie in VA, made annual pilgrimage to visit our dear friends in Welland Ont., and spent a few days at the beach with Mo, Pop Pop, Aunt Eileen and Uncle Ron. We also spent many, many fun filled hours at Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom thanks to Aunt Barbara and her gift of season passes.

Molly and Aidan started kindergarten in September and love it. They are in separate classrooms (per our request) and this is working out well. Most importantly they get to ride on the school bus. Big kids. So hard to believe they are in kindergarten already. Molly lost two teeth. Aidan still has all of his and is not happy about that. At the end of October, Molly and Aidan celebrated their 6th birthday in style at Chuck E. Cheese's.

And on the adoption from....sadly we have decided not to more forward with our adoption. Given my diagnosis it probably wasn't an option anyway. Still, it was difficult. After nearly two years and travel on the horizon our journey is finally over. Tough yes but we will count our Blessing. Molly and Aidan continue to be a joy and fill our lives with love and happiness. Who could ask for more?





















7 comments:

Jennifer said...

Wow. I am sorry to hear of your health stuggles with cancer, though so happy to hear that chemo has been successful so far, and I pray that it will continue to be a success.

I'm sorry to hear of the end of your next adoption, but completely understand why, and the count your blessings part of it.

Congratulations to your kids on starting Kindergarten. Such a fun milestone!

minime0910 said...

I have followed your blog for a while and wondered if you had completed your adoption. I am sorry you have had a rough time lately with your health, but I am in awe of your positive outlook and I too send prayers and good vibes your way. Aiden and Molly couldn't be any cuter! best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season! Erin

D and A said...

I have always wondered why you went silent, and had I known I would have been praying for you. I'm glad to know things are looking better, and thank goodness, your tumor was caught early. Your children are beautiful. You couldn't do any better than you already have. Best wishes.

Kelly and Sne said...

I am very sorry to hear of your health issues and hope for the best for you and your family. What beautiful children you have!

keoghclan said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Soper said...

Wow, Alli! So glad to hear you are doing well and they caught it early. I am glad that Aidan and Molly are doing well. We are doing well, too. Sending you some big gooby cyberhugs.

keoghclan said...

Hey there - oh I am so sorry to hear of your diagnosis - that is a wallop? But you sound remarkably well and positive? I am delighted you are surrounded by good family and friends - a testament to you that you have so many wanting to help.

I hope treatment continues well and you get the all clear.

Molly and Aiden are beautiful - you can see their spirit and spunk in the photos - yes they would keep you busy - though I am sure the decision to stop this adoption was hard also - sending you positive thoughts.

The Keoghclan

Toronto, Canada