If you are randomly checking up on the Whaley family…get ready. If you have been anxiously clicking refresh for the past few days, I have finally moved on to the blog.
This blog began under a different name and for different circumstances. It was started in May of 2005 by my brother, Steve. It was a way to keep all informed of the events surrounding Noah. It has been through tough times, fun times, anxious and fearful times as we awaited the birth of 2 more children, and now it has taken another turn.
I have Stage 1 breast cancer. There is a 1cm tumor that mostly consists of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Defined as cancer that starts in cells in the milk passages (ducts) and does not penetrate the duct walls into the surrounding tissue; This is a highly curable form of breast cancer that is treated with surgery or surgery plus radiation therapy. However, at the center of this area are cancer cells. The DCIS is a pre-cancerous, non-invasive tissue. But to say I have DCIS is not accurate, because that is considered Stage 0. The fact that there is cancer in the middle moves me to Stage 1.
We have two choices, both recommended by the doctor and both highly successful for treating the cancer.
1. Breast conservation therapy
Surgery to remove a breast cancer and a small amount of normal tissue around the cancer without removing any other part of the breast. I would have sentinel node biopsy (SNB) done during the surgery. They would inject a dye into the tumor site at surgery and the first (sentinel) node that picks up the dye is removed and biopsied. If the node is cancer-free, few nodes are removed. If the first few removed are cancerous, I would move into a different stage of cancer based on where it has spread. Following the surgery, radiation therapy would be necessary for 5-6 weeks.
2. Simple Mastectomy
Surgery to remove all or part of the breast and sometimes other tissue. Radiation would not be necessary, and I have the option of breast reconstruction at the time of the mastectomy. The SNB would still be done to determine the number of lymph nodes effected.
At this point, Ethan and I are doing reading and research about which option is best for us. We have met with a plastic surgeon and will probably meet with a radiation oncologist and my doctor again to gather as much info as possible. Those are the facts, as best as I can understand and put all this medical mumbo jumbo into Julie terms.
So where am I? My desk right here is a mess, papers of all kinds stacked up and really getting in my way right now. The floor needs vacuuming and I am sure my kids would love some interaction from their mother. I have normal activities to resume, but feel stuck in this hole. Someone handed me a card today that said, “You have breast cancer” and I don’t know how to just let that go. It is small. It is early. It is highly curable. But right now there is cancer in my body. I have been strong. Believe me, I am trying my best not to get emotional about this, there is enough of you out there for that. But how does one take this news? So, I guess for now it is sinking in. The idea is creeping in, usually about 5 am in the morning. I wake up, see the sun begin to rise and think “Ahhh, another day…. oh, shit, I have cancer.”
What I want you to know: I am okay. God has tested me before, I know what it feels like. I also believe and like the words of Paul that my brother, Brad sent me:
1 Corinthians 12:9-10
But he [God] said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
I am not sure about the delight part yet, but I will have strength through this that comes from him and not from me. And, I have the best support group here in Spring Hill, TN that I could ever wish for. I have friends who talk with me, ask me how I am, ask how they can help, take my children at a moments notice. Friends who have prayed over me and prayed for me. Friends who know exactly how I feel and friends who want to just walk beside me. I know many of you want to be here by my side. Want to give me a hug. But know that those needs are being met by the people that God purposely brought into my life just for this time.
Ethan and I would appreciate continued prayers for our strength, upcoming conversations with Alyssa, decisions about surgery and prayers that it has not spread into the lymph nodes.
Julie, you don’t know me but Steve and Jenn are some of my really good friends. I feel like I know your family from Steve. I’ve seen him hurt for you all still hurt for Noah and all of that. I just went through a bout of cervical cancer. It sucks its hard and sometimes you just don’t know what to do but cry or laugh it off. Life sucks sometimes and somehow we figure out a way to hold on to our faith. I say this to say 1) I don’t know you but you earn the honor of my prayers because of Steve ha!! seriously though and 2) you now join the C word family that I have formed in my head and so as you fight this know there are people that care and have been there and you will make it even when you think you can’t.
I know options are hard. Radiation isn’t bad but sometimes I get to the point just take everything out so I don’t have to deal with it. I know those choices are hard and its like we can never get enough info about them so I pray for the peace in those decisions. Rebekah
well, i came across a quote last year from Christopher Reeve:
“In the morning… I need 20 minutes to cry… To wake up and to make that shift, you know, and to just say, “This really sucks”……
and you know there isn’t anything I won’t do for you little sister, especially if it means cussing on your blog, and joining you in this fight. STAMP IT….RUNSTRONG
Heavenly Father, I pray that your peace that surpasses all understanding swells around the Whaleys like an unstoppable tide. I pray for wisdom and guidance, discernment and courage. I pray that Alyssa, Megan, and Audrey are always blantantly aware of their mother’s strength, faith, and dependence on you. In a time when most would say, “haven’t I been through enough?!” I pray that you would fill Julie’s mind with the memory of trials and victories that you have already brought her from, through, and to. Your ways are not known to us, but your companionship is guaranteed. I pray for Ethan’s strength and resolve, and I pray against his feelings of helplessness and resentment. Above all I ask for your healing. Plain and simple, heal Julie. In the name of our comforter, protector, provider, and healer I pray, Amen.
We are on our knees praying for all of you through this. We love you!!! XOXOX
you have our prayers.
My “Go Girl” ring goes on for you tomorrow and in the coming days. I’m so sorry to hear this news. Praying in St. Louis…
I’m wearing my “Go Girl” ring for you!
Love you,
GiGi
I want one of those “Go Girl” rings, too!! Suggestions, anybody?
Meanwhile you can count on me to be one of your many prayer warriors and Nana supporters! I love you and I’m so sorry, sweet Julie and Ethan.
Hi Julie,
I am one that checks in on your website every once in a while and have enjoyed seeing your family grow. I was at Noah’s service as Alison worked with my husband at Houston Christian HS. My heart sank when I read this and want you to know that I will be praying for you, Ethan and the girls and for complete healing!
Melissa
Julie & Ethan,
Your journey has been a difficult one these past few years. But your journey has brought light and healing to so many of us, who have journeyed with you and your family. We thank you for allowing us to be on that journey with you. Like you, we have wished for other milestones for you all along the way. But these are the milestones that God has placed, or allowed to be placed along your path. The Faith Legacy that you and He are creating is a blessing for those of us, who journey with you in love and spirit, as well as, those who journey by your side. We love you from a far, and we love your parents who are near. May you know His touch every step of the way.
Blessings,
Richard
Julie, just know that you will be in my prayers and thoughts. I know God has gotten you through some truly difficult times, and I am certain He will be there to get you through this. You are a very strong person. I will be praying for you!!!
It goes without saying that you have my prayers. I’m so sorry, Julie.
You have my prayers. Your strength amazes me.
love, hugs, prayers, and sink polish headed your way!
Julie,
I have enjoyed reading about your family through your blog and although I have never commented please know Brad and I think about your family often. We are praying for you and want you to know that we admire your strength and faithfulness to God during all you have endured during the past few years. The decision you make is will not be easy. Praying you feel God’s arms wrapped around you and your family. We love you guys!
Julie,
I just took out “our” pencil bag and held it tight. I am praying for you and your precious family. I am in awe of your faith and devotion. Now, you are the teacher and I am learning so much from your strength. I know that whatever you decide it will be the right choice, for God is with you.
Love you.
Julie,
I have been keeping up with you through your mom at CCA. I am so sorry for you all. I have no doubt you will walk through this with your head held high with the faith of the strong woman that you are. But there is a part of me that’s saying, “REALLY? After everything you all have been through? Really?” Sometimes I don’t get the method to God’s love, but I know it’s there and I know you do too. Please know that I am praying for you.
Praying for you….
Julie,
Our prayers are with you guys.
You are an amazing women. I will be praying for you.
Julie,
Jen told us of your news last week. From your explanation on the blog it sounds a lot like what Corey’s mom went through last year. She had the area removed and then 6 weeks of radiation. She did great. It sounds like you guys are doing a good job of weighing all your options and you and Ethan will make the right choice.
I know this isn’t the first time you all have gone through something hard. After Lia, one of my favorite things to say when faced with something of this magnitude is, “This is the kind of thing that shows what we’re made of…” I know you get that. You and your beautiful family will be in the Stones’ prayers.
All our love,
Corey and Lisa Stone
I’m here to walk beside you girl! Praying, hoping, trusting for you. God’s brought you strength before, He’ll bring you that same strength again.
Love you!
I have heard about you from my dear friend Jessica B. She has spoken about how precious you are to her and that this new battle is one that she is going to help you through. Let me tell you… she is the friend who I would want by my side if I was facing a fight like this. I have been and will continue to pray for you and everyone who will take part in this story. I will especially be praying for direction and peace about the treatments that you decide upon. I look forward to meeting you soon!
Julie,
Rob & I are praying for you & we will ask our church family to pray as well. May God grant you peace, strength and courage. We love you.
Sixteen years ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I’m still here! Hold fast. I’ll keep you in my prayers. Susan Campbell on her blog Dating Jesus, has told us about you so the DJ bloggers are with you. One day you’ll wake up and not think of it. May that day come soon.
Praying for you, Julie!
Julie–
I am praying fervently for you and lifting you up for peace and comfort, along with your entire family and all those that love you. Ann Fregia was my “assigned” mentor for a class that I took at FCCC. She is such a joy and is keeping me informed of your battle. I have always wanted to “re-pay” you for what you gave me—peace of mind and breathing room. I have never forgotten and think of you often. Please know I am on my knees. God Bless You.
Much Love–Lori Ham
Julie,
I am overwhelmed with your amazing strength! I am totally in awe of you, and we are on our knees praying for you and your precious family! Please God heal Julie, and bless her family!
To Bev and anyone else interested in a Go Girl Ring: My friend Dian Malouf is the designer of the Go Girl Ring. You can purchase one at http://dian-malouf.com/endearings.html. If they have your size in stock, they are very quick with shipment & delivery. I have a long history with the Go Girl ring – if you don’t know what it is, read about it here: http://lonestarlifer.wordpress.com/2009/07/17/friday-faves-dian-maloufs-go-girl-ring/.
Now to you, Julie: You don’t know me but I am a long-time member of First Colony. I prayed for Noah & your family and now I will be praying for you. Do you have a Go Girl ring? If not, I would like to give you one. Dian Malouf’s daughter Brooke gave me a ring to give to someone I thought needed it. Email me & we’ll talk particulars. Asking God’s blessings to you and your family.
Julie,
I am so sorry to hear about your diagnosis, but I am so glad that they caught it early. My mom was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in December 2008 and is now in remission. 2009 was a scary and difficult year for her and our whole family. I can’t imagine what you must be feeling to have to endure this at such a young age.
I know we don’t know each other well, but I am happy to help you with the girls anytime. I would also like to bring you guys dinner one night. Does anyone have a calendar going for meals??
Try to stay strong. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Amber Williamson
Julie, so very sorry to hear this news. You can add me to your list of prayer warriors. I am so glad that this was caught early. And I pray you feel totally convinced of the treatment option you choose.
ann
Julie and Ethan,
Brad and I just heard your news today and want you both to know that we are, and will continue to fervently pray for your complete healing and for all of your needs to be met during this time. We are so sorry you are going through this. We know that God is powerful and mighty to save. We love you.