Since this is the news-good and bad- of the Whitesides fam, I wanted to tell of a hard experience this past week. I found a lump in my breast and it was removed last friday. I found out on this past monday that it was cancerous. It was a small lump-1.2mm or 1/2 in. The reports also show that it has estrogen hormone receptors. The size of the lump and that is has estrogen receptors are good news and all that I know for now. I will know more next week after surgery to either remove more of the lump area and some lymph nodes or a mastectomy, it is really up to me which I chose. If I go with a lumpectomy then I have an automatic 6 weeks of radiation if I have a mastectomy then no radiation. I will only have Chemo if it has metastasized. As you can imagine the first couple of days were extremely hard, but now I am optimistic and feeling good. I don't have any pain and have good energy. I have learned that cancer is not an event it is a process and all I can do is deal with what I know now and put the rest in the Lord's hands. I have seen his His hands working miracles already, for example, I found the lump, and as far as I know there is no others. If the lump would have been anywhere else, like any place deeper, then I may not have found it becuase the recommended age for mammograms is 40+. If I would have waited 5-10 more years to find the lump I think I would be in a lot bigger trouble. I am grateful for Mike's job which allows him to be very helpful and supportive with hours off in the middle of the day to come home and help when I need it. Before I knew about all of this I started babysitting a little boy which will help to cover some of the cost of medical treatment. I know that the Lord knows us and loves us, He is mindful of our needs and wants. I have felt him near me throughout my life and I know this will be no different. I would love for you to include my family and myself in your prayers and even your fast this next sunday. I am praying for a full recovery, and what direction on what surgical path to take. I know this sounds kinda silly but I am looking forward to the strength and unity that this will bring my family and the strengthening of our testimonies. If it helps strengthen any of these areas for my family, then whatever I go through is well with it.
The Mike and the kids are doing well. Mike and I didn't like leaving each other's sides for a couple of days, but we are feeling more optimistic now, but still not going too far away. The kids are doing great they are our joy and strength in times like these.
I will keep you informed as much as I know. I am really sorry to worry anybody. We love you all and feel your love from a distance.
Jeni and Family
Jeni, I love you and your family. You are such wonderful people. If you feel like you need some time or a break, please call me and let me do something to help you. Love ya.
ReplyDeleteWe love you Jeni & your family! You have so much faith and strength. Thanks for your example. We definitely will include you and your family in our prayers and fast! We believe in Miracles and know the Lord will answer our prayers.
ReplyDeleteYour post is making me cry, for two resons. First, I am so sorry that you and your family are going this trial. Second, you have incredile faith and I can feel your strength even through this post. I know you and your family are being watched over and whatever happens will be part of His plan. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteOn a differentnote, I am so happy you have a blog. I love to see what is going on with my friends and their families. I definitely check back for an update. Take care. We miss you and your family!
(Sorry my typing was a little out of control in my previous comment. A lot of words were left out. I really can type better than that. ;))
ReplyDeleteOur prayers and love are with you and yours. I know what you mean about not wanting to leave each others side. As my daughter in law says: That's love.
ReplyDeleteOh Jen! What a scary ordeal, I'm so glad you caught it early! I will be thinking of you and your family and remembering you in my prayers. It's refreshing to know that you are taking a positive spin on this trial. Your family will grow from this experience. You are blessed to have such faith! We love you! Heidi
ReplyDeleteWe will definately be praying and fasting for your family. Let me know if there is anything that I can do to help out. You inspire me with your faith and hope!
ReplyDeleteJeni, Thank you for letting us know what is going on. We love you and your family. You will be in our prayers and yes we will fast with you tomorrow. We love you and know that the Lord will bless you and your family for your great faith. Please let us know if we can do anything at all.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Patty and Family
We are so sad to hear about your rough week. We will be praying and fasting for you and your family! We love you guys and pray for the best. You are Mike are such strong people and I know you will get through this trial. Let me know if there is anything else we can do.
ReplyDeleteJeni--we love you and Mike so much. I'm so sorry for your trial, but know that the Lord will be with you and your family as you face this. We will include you in our fasting and prayers. Please keep up informed. The great thing about breast cancer is its curability. I know the Lord still has great things in store for you. Bless you and your family! Len and Julie
ReplyDeleteJeni, I was out of town last week and just now read your blog. Please know that you and your family are in my prayers! We are so bless to serve a God who heals and I know that He will watch over you and your family. Jen, you are an amazing wife and mother and a strong Christian woman and I know this process will make you even stronger. Tomorrow will be my day to pray and fast for your family.
ReplyDeleteI wish I was closer to help and just be ther when you need a shoulder to lean on.
I love you, my friend, Callie
Isaiah 41:10
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
jeni, thanks for sending me the link to your post. i am so sorry to hear you are having this struggle. thanks for the good example and strength you demonstrate. you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!
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