Surgery.

 The biggest thing that I think we all took away from surgery day was LOVE.  It was a super overwhelming day...obviously for our patient...but for all of us.  I don't think any of us will ever forget the love that enveloped us that day.

As the surgery date approached, I felt myself getting more and more anxious about it.  It wasn't that I didn't think God had it under control...I KNEW He did...it was just the finality of what a double mastectomy meant for Auntie.  Auntie had dealt with the reality far longer than I had...because it was not happening to me; I had my kids and life to escape to so that it wasn't always weighing on me.  But as it got closer, it got really hard for my heart to take.  My worldly self just kept going back to the finality of surgery.  What God taught me was that what I kept viewing as an end was really just a new beginning for Auntie that He graciously gave her.  Auntie already "got it"...I was slower to figure it out!  Thankfully He is patient with me!!

We were so blessed to get to spend the evening before surgery at the house together, eating dessert and just enjoying each other.  It was a precious evening that I am so grateful we had.  I can't believe we didn't take a picture...but it was a joyous evening.  We let the kids stay up past their bedtimes because no one wanted to leave...leaving meant going home to bed...to wake to the reality of surgery day.

Wednesday morning, as I was pulling into the school parking lot to drop Cal and Gray off, I received a text with pictures of Mrs. Owens' prayer warriors turquoised out!!  It was instant tear-inducing.  Humbled.  Overwhelmed.  Loved.  Grateful.  Scared.  Nervous.  All of those emotions left me a bawling mess as I dropped Cal off at her class.  I will never forget the hugs from each of the teachers throughout the hall...and the shared tears and precious words of encouragement.  Mrs. Owens is SO loved.  There was SO. MUCH. TURQUOISE!!!  It was such a neat thing to see....kids, teachers, signs, wow!!!

I left the school to run back home so I could pick up Josi LaRu and head to the hospital.  I had been so overwhelmed with emotions and had cried a lot and it was on the drive home that I felt God speak to me.  It finally hit my heart that this was NOT the end...this is her new beginning!!  God knew that I needed that right then and I am thankful for His grace.  It was definitely the lift that I needed so I wouldn't go and cry in the waiting room all day!!  That SO would not have been what my Bud Ter needed!!

Little Miss Jo Ru kept us very entertained...she was a great distraction from reality in the waiting room!  And can I just say what an honor it is to have my Bud Ter as my uncle.  He's been my Bud Ter since I was a tiny little thing and he has ALWAYS been the best guy.  I've loved him so much my whole life and watching him walk through this with Auntie has given me so much absolute respect and adoration for him.  He has been such a rock for Auntie...constant support and encouragement.  Even when things have totally sucked...you will not hear him complain.  He was such a trooper in the waiting room...I know he was a nervous wreck, but he played with Josi, visited, and in the end would not let me go get him lunch because he didn't want me to have to bother with it since I had Josi.  I want to be like my Bud Ter when I grow up.    Love him!!!

 Praise God, everything with surgery went flawlessly.  HUGE relief is an understatement.  The surgeon is such an amazing lady and came and introduced herself and visited with ALL of us.  She was pleased with how the surgery went, ended up taking fewer lymph nodes than they thought they might have to, and thought everything looked great.  We were so happy to see our patient.  I never want to forget how much love was squished into that tiny hospital room that evening.

 One of the FUNNIEST moments that happened after surgery (and Auntie is going to KILL me for telling this, but I have to) was when Terry had gone to get dinner and left Mom and I with Kelli.  Auntie had finally been able to get up to use the potty...and they had told her that something to do with the dye that was used during surgery, etc. could cause her urine to look "funny" for a bit.  I think the poor nurse was completely confused because of Auntie's "OH. MY. GAWWWWSH!" that was shouted after going potty. Totally not kidding-her potty was TURQUOISE!!!!!!!  How funny is God?! We have laughed and laughed at this.

Auntie was released to come home the next morning and has healed like a total rockstar.  Her pathology reports came back the next week and showed NO CANCER!!!!  They could see where the tumor had been in the breast, but it had no cancer cells.  Lymph nodes were clear.  PRAISE GOD!!!!

She went this week for a re-check of everything and they took both drains out...we are told this is RARE.  We were prepared for those pesky things to have to stick around longer than this...so it was a wonderful surprise that she is now free from all of that extra "stuff"!  

So, now it's time to finish healing.  They are still recommending that she do radiation as a precautionary measure...that will take six weeks.  But, overall, she's on the road to getting back to "normal" life!  She was up and around this morning at 9am out in the freezing cold to watch a riveting soccer match of sharks vs. ladybugs (Grady's 1st game of the season!)....it was such a blessing to see her back in the swing of life.  

I say this every post, but there are truly not adequate words to express our appreciation to each and every person who has prayed us through this, offered sweet encouragement, prepared meals, sent cards and goodies...the list goes on and on.  Like I said earlier, the biggest thing that I have felt from this is LOVE.  Love for Auntie, love for my family, LOVED on by such an enormous amount of people.  We are humbled and grateful.  Thank you.

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

Good News and The Next Step...

Auntie traveled to MD Anderson last week for scans to determine how the cancer responded to the chemo.  Praise God-everything looked GREAT!!  The reports said "complete response in breast and lymph nodes" and her doctor was congratulating her!  We are thrilled!

Now, it's on to the next step.  Surgery.  Kelli will be having a double mastectomy on Wednesday, August 27th in Tulsa.  Thankfully, the surgeon that everyone agreed on and Kelli feels led to use is in Tulsa...we are grateful that she gets to be so close to home.  No way around it, this part is going to stink.  We need everyone to continue to pray her through this!!

I am going to adjust the meal schedule for after she gets home from surgery to cover as many days as we can while she is healing.  I SO appreciate all of you who have taken meals!!  The website is www.takethemameal.com and you can search by her last name.  Message me for the password!

We have lots of "Praying for Mrs. Owens" bracelets left if anyone needs one.  We are hoping to have everyone wear Mrs. Owens favorite color, turquoise, on Wednesday in show of support on her surgery day.

Thank you thank you thank you!!!  I will update again on Wednesday after she's out of surgery.

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

Last Chemo!!!

Auntie's last chemo treatment was kicked off to a great start with signs and car decorations by some precious friends...it was a GREAT way to start the day!!

Chris was the chemo buddy and did a fabulous job!  Last time!!!

Now that we are finished with chemo, Auntie and Terry head to Houston this week for scans to see how the cancer has responded.  The results of that will solidify the remainder of the treatment plan....surgery and radiation.  

We are so appreciative of your prayers.  This week we are asking that you specifically pray for good results from the scans in Houston.  Please pray for traveling graces and peace over Kelli and Terry as they are receiving test results, future recommendations, etc.  

The meal schedule is still up at www.takethemameal.com.  I'll get the password to anyone who needs it!! 

I will update the blog this week once Kelli  is back from Houston with results, surgery dates, etc.  

THANK YOU isn't enough for all of the love we are shown daily...but THANK YOU!!!

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

Only One More To Go!!

Jake got to be Auntie's chemo buddy this week...and he did a fabulous job!   Throughout all of this, it is such a gift that we have each other and that we love each other so much.  I am so grateful for our family.  

It's hard to believe that Auntie only has one chemo treatment left!!!!!  Woo hoo!!!!  It's been a whirlwind ride, that's for sure...one we are ALL so excited to get off of soon!  Auntie has rocked this cancer battle and is kicking it's booty BIG TIME!! 

Please continue to pray us through this battle...the end is getting closer in sight, but it is not over.  There are still many steps that Kelli has to endure after chemo is finished.  Surgery will follow, and possibly radiation.  Please continue to pray for strength & endurance, both physically and emotionally.  Please pray for peace regarding the surgery decision (what type, etc.).  We are so grateful to each and every one of you!!

The meal schedule is still up at www.takethemameal.com.  I'll get the password to anyone who needs it!! 

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

Happy News!!

As Auntie announced on her facebook, another "sparkler" showed up this year on the 4th of July.  Jacob asked his girlfriend of 5 years, Tiffany, to be his bride!!  We are all SO excited and happy for them!!  It was such a fun and memorable way to propose and Tiffany was way surprised!  

Jake did SO good on the ring, it is gorgeous!  It's perfectly Tiffany.  

 It is so nice to be able to focus on all of the good and wonderful gifts, like each other, that God has blessed us with. Especially in the midst of this cancer.  Now we have even more incentive to get this cancer outta here by Christmas...we have a wedding to plan!!!

Congratulations Jake &  Tiffany...we are SO happy for you!!!

Update

Auntie finished her first phase of chemo at the end of May.  Thankfully, she underwent all 12 weeks of that treatment without too terribly many side effects.  No nausea, mainly just some fatigue.  Because of of how well she tolerated that first round of chemo, I really didn't think the second phase would be that much different.  Oh how I was WRONG!

Auntie and Terry went down to MD Anderson for her first chemo treatment in the second phase.  We knew that it was a harsher chemo that often was harder on the body, but because of several factors not working in her favor, it was basically like having a chemo treatment back in the 80's for her.  Not good.  She was immediately very sick in her tummy and spent two days throwing up.  Oh and trying to fly back home from Houston in the midst of all of it!  Of course once Mom and I got word of how bad it was, we immediately began asking for you all to join us in prayer.  I am still SO overwhelmed at the outpouring of love that came as soon as we asked.  It didn't matter that it was close to midnight; everyone joined with us in prayer...I know that is what got them home!!  We are so grateful for all of you.

Last Friday, I was able to take Auntie for her second chemo treatment since it was in Tulsa.  Needless to say, we were ALL apprehensive about the outcome based on the last treatment.  I teased her that I would not be driving my new car to the treatment...I was going to drive hers in case there were yucky side effects this time, too : )  But I stepped out in faith that this was going to go much better than the treatment 3 weeks ago and drove the new car!  Thankfully, everything went so well.  We are truly blessed with a wonderful doctor and staff in Tulsa, too and they make it so nice.  They gave Auntie several anti-nausea pre-meds, plus helped her with her anti-nausea arm patch (apparently the last treatment it wasn't sticking properly, so it basically offered her no support).  We made it through the treatment just fine and she was actually hungry on the way home!  She did report some yucky tummy feelings later on, but thankfully no throwing up!!

So, she's halfway there on finishing this second phase of chemo.  It's four treatments spanned out over 12 weeks and she's already had two.  Woo hoo!  After she completes this second phase of chemo (it'll be around the end of August) she will undergo surgery.  We are not sure yet what type of surgery she will undergo (lumpectomy, mastectomy, double mastectomy, etc.) as it will depend on how the cancer has responded (shrunk) to the chemo treatments.  This is one area we could use LOTS of prayer on.  Please pray with us that the doctors will see clearly and have a very clear opinion for her on what type of surgery is necessary.  Please pray that Auntie will have a peace about the path that is "recommended" and feel good about what will be happening next.  There is also question as to whether the surgery will happen in Tulsa or in Houston...again, please pray for clear guidance and peace on this choice.

After surgery and healing, there will more than likely be radiation to go through.  All of this should be wrapped up and finished by Christmas, pray with us that it all continues as planned and that we get every ounce of this cancer's booty kicked in time for a fabulous Christmas gift of "cancer free" designation for Auntie!!

Again, we thank you for ALL you do...prayers, kind words of encouragement, funny note cards that lift Auntie's spirit each week, meals, etc.  We feel so very loved.  The meal schedule is still up at www.takethemameal.com and I can get the password to anyone who needs it!

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

11th Treatment.

Tiffany, Jake's sweet girlfriend, took Auntie to her 11th treatment this week.  It fell on the last day of school, which Auntie was super sad to miss.  I was busy with Cal's end of the year party, so thankfully Tiffany stepped in!  It ended up being a good treatment, aside from an initial technology glitch in the lab work that might have given them both heart palpitations.  They were mentioning a blood transfusion...EEK!  Luckily, all of that was figured out and everything was normal, so treatment proceeded as scheduled.  

Kelli has said that she can't believe this was her 11th treatment...I agree!  It has been such a whirlwind and seemingly has gone by so fast.  In a blink, this was our new reality and it has kept pace with the rest of life...rapid!  I guess this is the one area that we aren't sad to see go by so fast.  

Thank you all for your continued prayers...they are felt!!  Although Kelli is missing her students, this summer will be a good break for her to rest and try to kick this cancer's booty.  If you are still interested in taking a meal this summer, I've extended the schedule out to cover the rest of the summer months.  It's www.takethemameal.com and I can get you the password!  

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

True Travelers...

"Well, here we are spending the night in the Dallas airport. After my appointments in Houston yesterday we got to board the plane and sit on the runway waiting for storms to pass between Houston and Dallas. Then when we made it to Dallas our flight to Tulsa was canceled:( Finally made it in about 7:00 this morning. God is good and we made it home. My tests yesterday showed that my treatments are working and the cancer sites are shrinking. Praise The Lord!! My doctor said it was exactly what he wanted to see:) Thank you so much to all who are praying for me and please keep them coming! I can feel those prayers and God's grace."

I think it's a rule that you aren't truly a "traveler" until you've spent the night in an airport...Kelli & Terry can now check that off the list...eek!  Thankfully that was the worst part of the trip and they finally made it home with a good report from the doctor!  She had another good chemo treatment in Tulsa today, too...Chris filled in for me again since I am home with 3 sick kids...strep is the last thing Auntie needs!!  

Thank you for all of your prayers!!!

The Girls Who Wear Shoes Together Stay Together!!

I got quite the treat when I showed up for chemo today with Auntie...

First, I noticed she had on new shoes and I was like "hey!  I have been wanting those!!!" and Auntie was like "good!  because you got some!!".  Woo hoo!!  She had them there waiting for me!!  Of course I had to put them on immediately and take our picture...and yes, it appears I'm laying on top of Auntie, but I assure you our patient was unharmed in the set-up for this picture...ha!  We were cracking up at ourselves, though, because even as we were taking a picture of our feet we were smiling as if we were taking a normal picture...oh dear.  It's never dull on chemo Fridays that is for sure.  I love my new chucks...and I love Mother's Day!!  I always joke that had I known producing grandkids and nieces and nephews would warrant so many spoils for me I would have had kids sooner!!  

We did actually fit in a round of chemo today during our chatting and feet photo sesh.  That was, per her usual, uneventful.  Yay!!  We finished off our day with lunch at Chick Fil A...can't beat that.

Kelli & Terry fly out on Sunday for Houston to go see her doctor at MD Anderson...they will check her port to make sure all looks healthy and they will perform another ultrasound to see how the chemo treatments have affected the cancer.  They will fly back home Monday night and she will go to chemo as usual back in Tulsa on Friday.  It will be a busy week, for sure!

Thank you's just do not seem adequate to express our gratitude at everyone's continued support.  The meals, the goodies, the kind words, the PRAYERS!!  It is truly overwhelming to look around and see all of the love that surrounds us.  We are so blessed.

What we can pray for this week:

*traveling protection

*a good visit with her MD Anderson doctor

*energy to make it through this busy week!!

*continued success with tolerating chemo

*that this cancer is getting kicked!!

I still have the meal schedule set up at www.takethemameal.com.  I can get the password to anyone who is interested.  This has been a huge blessing to Kelli on the two nights a week that she has had help feeding her crew...Mondays seem to be her particularly tired and crummy feeling days, so having a meal already taken care of that evening is such a blessing to her.  THANK YOU to all who have sent meals...I've heard wonderful things about each one of them!

I also have plenty of "Praying For Mrs. Owens" bracelets left if anyone needs one or needs a replacement...I know my words are hardly visible on mine anymore because it's been worn so much!

On a personal note...

Bud Kel, I count it as such a blessing that I get to spend (most of) my Fridays with you.  It is so fun to chat and catch up and reminisce...I love how much we laugh.  Today FLEW by because we were having so much fun....but shhh...don't tell the cancer that!   I love you so much and I am so happy we are kicking this cancer's booty.  I love that you are my Mom's sister...I love that the two of you end up telling me the same things and I get to see the two of you as Sister besties.  I love getting the inside scoop on the boys...and getting to put my two cents in on them.  And I love sharing stories of my babies with you because I see you react to them with genuine love and adoration.  I am so thankful to be celebrating another Mother's Day with you tomorrow...and YOUR BIRTHDAY!!  Technically, it's not until Wednesday, but I'm glad we get to celebrate together tomorrow.  Keep being brave...and keep fighting!!  LOVE LOVE LOVE!!

Sweet Love.

Chris posted this on his facebook page this weekend.  Randomly, while out, this is what he received with notice that his bill was paid for.  So SO sweet.  Overwhelming kindness and love.  THANK YOU!!!!!

I May Have Been Replaced...

Last week my kids were out of school, so it made more sense for Chris to take Auntie for her chemo treatment.  I hated to miss, but I knew she would be in good hands!  I still laugh when I look back at our texts where we decided he would get to take my spot!

I think he may have taken over my job!!  This picture makes me so happy.  LOVE!!

 Another round of chemo...check!  Thanking the Lord that it went well.  We are so grateful for everyone's continued prayers, thoughts, kind words, and meals!  We are so blessed.

Another Good Day

I got to go with Auntie again today for her chemo treatment in Tulsa.  It went well!  Her port that she had put in last week while she was in Houston worked well and everything went as needed.  It was fun to get to sit and visit...wish it was different circumstances, but I am thankful for the blessing of time that I am getting with my "Bud Kel" (that was her nickname when I was a little girl...I had my Bud Kel and Bud Ter).

Thank you for your continued prayers and encouraging words and wonderful meals!!  They are all so very appreciated!  We are daily amazed at the huge outpouring of love on our family...we are so blessed!!

Auntie

Kelli & Terry flew to Houston on Wednesday night to prepare for her "port" procedure that took place this morning.  She had to do a class-ish type thing regarding the ins and outs of having a "port" before she could actually have it done.  Basically, having the port will allow for a much easier, quicker, and hopefully more comfortable experience each week as Auntie goes through her chemo treatment.  She did her class yesterday and had the port put in this morning.  After that was complete, she was able to have her fourth chemo treatment.  All went well!  Praise God!  They will get to fly home tomorrow...just in time for her "baby" to celebrate 21 years!!  How that can be, I do not know, since I am only 25 : )  Happy Birthday Christopher!!

Thank you all SO very much for the calls, texts, PRAYERS, meals provided, etc.  It is so nice to feel your love.  I still have the meal schedule on www.takethemameal.com for anyone who is interested...holler at me for the password.  I also still have lots of "Praying For Mrs. Owens" bracelets for anyone who did not get one or needs a new one!  Things we can continue to pray for:

*Energy!  That's been the biggest complaint throughout all of this for Kelli is that she is tired A LOT.  This has just zapped her energy....which is not acceptable with a classroom of 5th graders!  Ha!

*Continued minimal side effects...so far so good on the nausea, etc. that is often associated with chemo...please pray that continues.

*Complete HEALING!  Pray that this cancer gets its booty KICKED!!

We are excited to get Auntie home tomorrow and hopefully she will get to stay here for a while!  Her next several treatments (at least) should be able to be done in Tulsa...that will be nice!  Thank you for your support...we love you all!!

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

1st Chemo In Tulsa!

I got to take Auntie for her first chemo in Tulsa yesterday...despite turning into a 5+ hour ordeal, we had a fun afternoon!! We are hoping that her next treatment will go more smoothly...I think the first is always the hardest (paperwork, etc). She did great...one step farther in kicking this cancers booty!!

Praying For Mrs. Owens

These signs are ALL OVER our school! So sweet!

2nd Treatment...Done!

Kelli and Terry flew out Thursday night, she had her second treatment yesterday with no problems, and flew back home last night!  Quick trip...yay!  She is now set up with a doctor in Tulsa to be able to do some of her chemo treatments.  Thankfully, next week she can have it in Tulsa.  She will still need to travel to Houston the NEXT week for a procedure and a treatment, but after that she should be able to stay home more.

Thank you all who have helped with meals, I know they REALLY appreciate that!  If you still would like to help with that the website is www.takethemameal.com and I can get the password to you! 

Thank you for your continued prayers...we ALL feel them and appreciate them so much. 

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

Blondes Have More Fun...

So, my Mom and I went wig shopping with Kelli this week....all I can say is God is a very gracious God.  I was honestly dreading it.  I have hated this part of cancer.  I hate all of it, but this part just made me kind of sick.  I cannot imagine having to emotionally go through losing my hair...I realize that hair is just hair, blah blah blah.  I'm so grateful that the only thing we have to lose is her hair.  I am so grateful that there is treatment to get rid of the cancer.  I have perspective.  But I'm still human and this part sucks.  I know my Auntie and I knew that this would not be fun for her.  I prayed that it would go ok and I prayed for me to be a good "helper" in this.  God took care of the day for us!  We actually had FUN!  

I had told Kelli all along that we would be getting a blonde wig for her because blonde's have more fun, right?!  So, luckily for me, one of the styles (cuts) we liked was only available in this shop (for trying on) in blonde!  I totally think she's a "natural"!!  Ha!!  She was a good sport and let me snap some pictures.  I texted one to Terry and he thought she looked super hot.  I thought we may need to get the blonde one strictly for home, but Kelli advised against it : )  I texted the picture to Gary and he said "blonde's may have more fun but red heads get more attention!  Just ask Cal!".  Like I said, it was fun outing!!  There were no tears, but lots of laughs.  I am so so thankful.

We found two great choices that we brought home with us.  After discussion, I think the choice for Kelli is to go ahead and start back to school wearing one of her new wigs.  She went ahead and got her hair cut really short, which makes it a whole lot easier when it starts falling out.  For her students, this will provide some stability on the way they "see" Mrs. Owens...they won't have to go through several different phases of hair with her.  They will see the wig (which I truly don't think they would know was a wig until she tells them) and that will remain the same for the next year.  

So.  That was wig shopping.  A much better day than I could have ever imagined...thank you Lord!!

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

Update On Kelli

I wanted to give everyone a quick update on Kelli.  She is home from Houston; got back home on Saturday.  Other than being tired (both physically and emotionally) from the whirlwind that this experience has been, she's doing well.  Thankfully, her first chemo treatment was tolerated very well.  It's nice that she's got this week to be home for a bit (since it's spring break).  She will travel back to Houston on Thursday night for her second round of chemo on Friday morning.  It will be a quick trip (if all goes as planned) and she and Terry will fly back home Friday night. 

We are so grateful for everyone's continued prayers.  Kelli assures me that she feels them!!  She sees God working mightily throughout this entire experience:
Tuesday, March 4th:  biopsy results revealed that she has breast cancer.
Friday, March 7th:  appointment scheduled with a wonderful doctor at MD Anderson in Houston (this was HUGE to get in so quickly)
Tuesday, March 11th:  flew to Houston, first appointment with doctor at MDA
Thursday, March 13th:  testing complete, results show nothing major outside of initial diagnosis at home (yay!!)
Friday, March 14th:  first chemo treatment
Saturday, March 15th:  flew home from Houston, just in time for spring break!!
This is amazing to me that all of these things have fallen into place so quickly...truly a testament to the graciousness of our God.  Not only has timing been wonderful, but Kelli is so happy with her doctor and nurse and the care she is getting.  Thankfully, God is blessing us BIG TIME throughout all of this.

I have set up a meal schedule if anyone is interested in helping feed the Owens family during this busy time.  The website iswww.takethemameal.com.  I have the password...message/email/call/text and I'll pass it along.  I know that Kelli is planning to get back to her 5th graders next week (that she has missed so much!) and meals during the week would be a great way to help her!

Things we can specifically pray for right now:
*safe travels back and forth to Houston for the next few rounds of chemo
*energy (both physical and emotional); both for Kelli, Terry & boys
*continued well-tolerance of chemo
*good overall health (no colds, viruses, etc) to add stress to her already weakening immune system
*that the chemo works and kicks this cancer's booty!!!

Again, there are not enough lovely words we can say about our friends and family that have stepped up with encouragement and help during this time...but THANK YOU! 

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

Home Sweet Home

They're coming home!!  Yay!!  Should be home by tomorrow afternoon.  I've spoken with several of you regarding meals, etc. and that is definitely "in the works" but I wanted to visit with Auntie and see exactly how we can be of greatest help.  I will keep everyone updated!    Thank you for holding us all up in prayer...Auntie already has so many God stories from this trip...He is definitely proving every moment to be in control.

I Love My Family

This just makes me laugh.  Auntie and I were texting regarding flight information, etc. for tomorrow and this was part of the conversation...I love my family!!  My cup runneth over!!

Take Them A Meal

I have the meal schedule set up on takethemameal.com for anyone who is interested in helping with this!  Comment here, facebook, email or text...or CALL ME (ha!) and I can get you the password for the schedule.  Words cannot express our thankfulness for each and every one of you who have been praying us through this!!  Our cup runneth over!!

For Such A Time As This

Auntie rockin her groundbreaking ceremony shirt today for the rest of her tests! We love our school!!

Results

Auntie was able to finish up all of the remaining tests this morning and met with the doctor this afternoon to confirm diagnosis and formulate the treatment plan.  The good news is there were no huge surprises or developments from what she had already learned at home.  I think it was a long and emotionally exhausting day on everyone.  Mom is flying home as we speak and we hope to have Auntie and Terry home soon, as well.  

Chris and I kept Auntie up to date on the groundbreaking ceremonies that had Rejoice abuzz today...I know she wished so much that she would have been there.  She was certainly felt in spirit, though!  I know I've been able to get bracelets to many of you, but I have plenty of extras if you still need some, just let me know!  

Again, thank you ALL so much!  We are overwhelmed with the outpouring of love.  We can thank God for a (relatively) good report today and continue to pray for strength, endurance, and peace as Kelli undergoes her first chemo treatment.  Please pray for traveling graces as we work to get everyone back home safely.  

I'll close tonight with a message directly from Kelli to everyone:

"Rejoicing in God and that the prayers of many have stopped the cancer from having spread further throughout my body. I cannot even express the gratitude I have to God and all the Prayer Warriors. It will be a journey, but with God's help and the continued prayers I will be healed. The good news is it originated in the breast. There is no major source somewhere else. He said my tests looked pretty good. There are more lymph nodes affected around the breast and there was a very small spot on my lung, but he is confident that treatments will get rid of that. I may very well have my first chemo here tomorrow or Saturday. Then come home. Dr. Boozer will help set me up with a doctor in Tulsa for following treatments.  Though I will want to continue to see my doctor here (at MD Anderson) for check ups, they say I can keep working as they anticipate the chemo treatments are well tolerated. 24 weeks of chemo. Surgery will come at the end of chemo. Please keep praying for me. I love all of you!"  ~Mrs. Owens

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

Busy Place

Mom sent me a pic of the line to get blood work done this morning. She estimated 50-60 people! It is so overwhelming to me. You hear statistics, etc and you "know" how many people cancer affects. But to SEE this many people on a random Wednesday morning just makes it so real. I am thankful our God is bigger than cancer. And I'm thankful that this world is not our home. And although it's a hoppin place, I'm so thankful for MD Anderson and the care they are providing for Auntie.  On a side note...as much as Auntie rocks turquoise and it's "her" color...I think Terry may be taking it over!!  He looks good with a turquoise bag : )

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

Praying For Mrs. Owens

Bracelets are here! I've given them to the students and teachers at north. I'll drop some off at south tomorrow. Let me know if you need one!

Warriors

Some of Auntie's prayer warriors met this morning to pray for her. She has assured me she is feeling them!! THANK YOU!!!

Testing, Testing

That was the theme of today...testing, testing and more testing!  Overall, it was successful in that all of the ordered tests were able to be set up pretty much like clockwork.  They were able to get a lot taken care of today.  Kelli has to go for the remainder of the tests starting tomorrow at 6:30am.  By mid afternoon she should be finished with the last of the tests and able to meet with the doctor again.  Hopefully for an "official" diagnosis and treatment plan mapped out.  Exhausting few days to say the least, but we are so grateful for how quickly things are moving along.  We are praying for energy and endurance for tomorrow, as well as no surprises (unless they are good!) in the official diagnosis and treatment plan. 

I've had several people asking about the boys.  They really aren't officially "boys" at almost 21 and 23...BUT they'll always be "the boys" to me!!  And it's my blog so I'll call them what I want to : )  Anyway,  both Jake and Chris are doing well.  They are staying busy with work and school and following the mandatory daily text check-in with me that I've required!  Ha!!  Please continue to lift them up in prayer, because it doesn't matter how old you are, your Momma is always your Momma.  I have to say I'm so super proud of them...I went by tonight to grab their laundry so I could do it for them and Chris told me "I just put a load in!".  Excellent husband material right there, ladies!!

I posted earlier about our "Praying for Mrs. Owens" bracelets that came in today...I have lots of them so if you need one, let me know.  I also posted a picture of mine on instagram with the hashtag "prayingformrsowens".  I want to encourage everyone to do the same...how fun would it be for Auntie to be able to see all the places and people who are praying her through this!!  As I was up at school passing out bracelets, I was overwhelmed with the amount of "praying for Mrs. Owens" posters that are ALL OVER our school!!  So cool!!  I tried to take pictures of most of them that I'll include in another post!  Auntie has seen the pictures and is so tickled with all of the love that is surrounding her.  She said that she very much feels all of the prayers. 

Again, thank you all so much...we are so blessed!!

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

Information Overload!

The first appointment with the doctor went very well.  They were given lots of information regarding potential diagnosis, treatment plans, etc.  Almost too much information at once!  Mom said she was taking notes as fast her hand could write the whole time!  The doctor wants to spend tomorrow and possibly Thursday doing a wide range of tests.  Some will be repeats of what has already been done here at home, some will be new tests that have not been done yet, all just to confirm what exactly we are dealing with.  Overall, today was a positive day.  We praise God for safe travels and for this first visit going smoothly.  What we can specifically pray for in the next 24 hours:  

Energy!  Kelli, Terry and my Mom are all pretty exhausted from traveling and navigating the grounds of MD Anderson.  Please pray the tests go well tomorrow.  Please pray for Kelli to have peace throughout her day and that the tests only confirm what was found here at home and nothing new.  Unless that new might mean better!!  

I also want to say a huge THANK YOU to everyone who is joining with us in prayer.  We are overwhelmed with your kind words, notes, texts, emails, etc.  You are a blessing to each of us!!

I'll update tomorrow as I know more!

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

Auntie

Several weeks ago, at a routine mammogram, Auntie’s results showed up with something the doctor felt should be further investigated.  After investigation, they determined that a biopsy was necessary.  Auntie went in for that biopsy on Monday, a snow day for our school.  I actually was excited that it was that day and that it meant she wasn’t going to have to miss school for this.  I celebrated our snow day on Tuesday for the same reason; she wouldn’t have to miss school to go hear the results…of which I was CERTAIN would be positive, no-big-deal results.  It’s crazy how literally your whole life can change over the course of an hour. 

On Tuesday, March 4^th, we found out that Auntie has breast cancer.  To say we are in shock is an understatement.  There have been lots of tears, lots of prayers, and lots of research.  We have a wonderful family friend (who I truly suspect is an angel) that has helped us from start to finish in getting Auntie an appointment at MD Anderson in Houston.  There are not enough words to describe how thankful we are to Mollie for helping us through this tough time…she has calmed us and fought for us and would not take no for an answer in getting us in at MD Anderson!!

Auntie, my Uncle Terry and my Mom all leave on Tuesday morning for Houston.  Auntie’s first appointment is mid-afternoon on Tuesday.  We need your prayers.  Pray for peace for Kelli, strength for Terry and my Mom, bravery for Jake & Chris, knowledge and insight for all of the doctors involved.  Please pray for a quick and clear diagnosis and treatment plan for Kelli. 

Thank you for all of your love already shown to our family and thank you for your prayers.  I will update with more information as I receive it.  God Bless!!