About

In March 2016, at the age of 35, I was diagnosed with Stage IV stomach cancer. Only 3% of patients live 5 years or longer after receiving this diagnosis. Most die within the first year. I have a beautiful wife and two young children. This blog chronicles my experiences with cancer and the lessons I learn along the way.

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Cancer. Breast Cancer.

Rob was always the one with the ability to express himself in written communication. So I went back and found his post on Facebook when he was first diagnosed. His first sentence was “Cancer.”. Well, here we are again.

Cancer. Earlier this week, I was diagnosed with breast cancer.

I found an enlarged lymph node in my left armpit on October 8th and noticed some changes in my left breast tissue also. Three days later, I saw my regular doctor who quickly scheduled me for a diagnostic mammogram and ultrasound. The results of the mammogram were “highly suspicious” and three biopsies were completed even before leaving the imaging center. The next day, the results came back that cancer was present in all three locations. Since then, I have met with a surgeon and a medical oncologist to discuss the specifics of the cancer and a treatment plan. As best as they can determine from the biopsy samples, there is a mix of both invasive pleomorphic lobular carcinoma and invasive ductal carcinoma. The good news is that my type of cancer is not as important as the biomarkers of my cancer. All three biopsies came back as HER2 positive, which mean I am a candidate for targeted therapy, in addition to chemotherapy. This particular treatment is known to be highly effective. The doctors also continue to reiterate that this cancer is "treatable".

As of Friday, I am awaiting the approval and scheduling of a PET scan to evaluate the spread of the cancer, the scheduling of a port placement procedure, and approval of the planned course of chemotherapy treatment by my health care coverage. 

Today, we enjoyed the festivities of the season.

Unicorn and jaguar face paint at St. Francis Oktoberfest

We were always so thankful for the love and support given to Rob. Once again, I ask for your thoughts and prayers in this new fight against cancer. 

 

Reader Comments (31)

Wow Melissa.
So sorry to this.
I am a breast cancer survivor of the invasive ductal carcinoma and I was also a triple postive.
I was positive for the Her2 receptor and also positive for estrogen and progrestion. It is a scary thing
My words of encouragement are when you go thru the chemo. Don't hesitate to take naps and also for
Help. I had a hard time asking for help. I did a lumpectomy surgery because mine was also treatable
And the chemo got the tumor with the first treatment but I had still had to do 6 treatments. I will be praying
for you and your family. Support is what got me thru my cancer and I pray that you can beat it. Good luck
HOPE CARNES

October 24, 2017 | Unregistered CommenterHope Carnes

Dear Melissa,
We are so sorry to hear about your heartbreaking news and we are wishing you all the best in your cancer battle.
The Remidezes

October 25, 2017 | Unregistered CommenterThe Remidez Family

Dear Melissa,

I was just watching a youtube video of Robert unboxing a Lenovo laptop T470 then I came across the comment section where people was talking about Robert already passed away. At first I don't belive it but then when I visited this site, it really was real.
I am really sorry for your loss.

Now I read through some of the blogs you posted and I will pray for your healing and to strengthen your family.
Please keep us updated.
I wish you well and the rest of the family.

October 27, 2017 | Unregistered CommenterJivansky

Dear Melissa,
I heard about your diagnosis today through Anna and want you to know that you hold a special place in my heart. I will pray that your treatments are effective and that you will be lifted up by the love that surrounds you. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

October 31, 2017 | Unregistered CommenterDeb Bennett

My family and I are praying for you everyday, Melissa. Thank you for so courageously sharing your story. We've never met, but please know we are here for you and your beautiful children. My son also goes to SFM, so we hope to see you! Sending love, light, and prayers.

October 31, 2017 | Unregistered CommenterAshley

Melissa you are in our thoughts and prayers every day. The prayer chain has reached from ohio to Iowa so far and continues to grow. Give the kids a big hug for us and a double one for you.

November 4, 2017 | Unregistered CommenterAunt Kathie

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