I always struggle with how much personal information to share on the blog when it comes to our private lives. In my mind, there’s a balance between sharing too much and sharing just enough that I don’t feel like I’m hiding/ignoring something that impacts the part of my life that I do share here … my quilting, knitting, travels, and family updates.
I posted a couple weeks ago that I had surgery, a partial thyroidectomy — that pathology came back last week positive for cancer. I don’t plan to overshare here as I deal with all that means both medically and emotionally but I will post brief updates at times. The blog will stay focused on my quilting, knitting, travels, and family updates although I expect that the amount I accomplish in the sewing room may be less especially through the summer months – we’ll see how it goes.
Thyroid cancer is highly treatable and slow growing – both big positives and this is going to be something I have treated and then monitored on an ongoing basis. It’s not going to change much except in the short-term.
For now I’ll continue to heal and prepare for a second surgery in mid June. One thing I have learned through the process so far is it’s mostly about waiting …..
Because I’m used to writing about my life and having that record, I’m going to follow in my Dad’s footsteps and keep a small journal where I can make notes about appointments, results, and the more personal things that I wouldn’t want to share publicly. I hesitate to call it a cancer journal but I guess that’s what it is.
I am so sorry that this is not the hoped-for news, Mary, but thank you for keeping those of us who have followed you for so long in the loop. I’m sure you know that all of us will be sending you every bit of encouragement, hope and love as you face this challenge. All warm thoughts and virtual hugs to you and Keith.
I will pray for you!
Mary, thank you for sharing this.
You are giving us a chance to think good and positive thoughts for you…and you never know when your story might help others be strong and courageous….and not feel so alone with their diagnosis.
Be strong and be well!
Darla
Jo at jo’s country junction has shared her journey on her blog. It has been interesting.
I wish you well over the next few months and years. I’ll continue to look at your blog, but it is an understandably difficult thing to talk about.
Helen
Thank you for sharing with us. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs, Mayme
I’m sorry that you got the diagnosis of thyroid cancer. I see Darla’s comment above and feel the same way. You are a strong woman and will come through on the other side even stronger.
I’m so sorry to hear your news. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
I can certainly understand your need to keep your life private but am grateful that you shared this with us. You will be in our hearts and thoughts!! My best wishes for a smooth journey through the treatment process!!
Mary, thank you for letting us know the outcome of your test. I had been wondering. You will certainly be in my prayers. I’m so glad you got some unexpected fun time with family.
P.S. Gee, I didn’t have to do some arithmetic to post a comment!
Oh Mary so sorry to hear this; but your positive attitude cannot be anything but helpful to you…please keep on posting your wonderful quilts and knitting projects…I love reading about them…Keep us posted…hugsx2 Julierose
Mary, I am so sorry…hugs and many prayers!!
This is sad news and I’m sorry you have to go through it. Thankfully they are making great strides in cancer treatment every day. I’d call it a healing journal, knowing you’ll come out stronger once treatment is over.
Please if I ask too much, tell me. I share only because of the special person you are. This journey is yours and the journal will remind you of the journey. Highs and lows and doing things that you are proud of and things that you are just satisfied with. You have cared for many people in your life and now you will spend a little extra time on yourself. Waiting to hear the news that you are willing to share and I know that life will be up in the air for quite a while.
Sorry to hear of your diagnosis but there is hope. Sending lots of hugs and well wishes.
Hugs Mary. Wishing you a full and speedy recovery.
OH Mary, I am so sorry you’re having to deal with Cancer. My prayers and hugs go out to you as you make this journey with your love at your side.
Mary, you know you are always in my thoughts and now you will be in my prayers. I wound up ending my blog writing as my health has become more challenging and my energy has waned as I keep up with a full time job, my home and my children. I do hope that you will share your journey so we can keep you in our hearts.
Praying for you, Mary. I spent. A great deal of last year, with my daughter at the hospital, while going through aggressive chemo. She is doing great now, and cancer free.
Please keep us posted with as much information as you feel comfortable sharing. You will be in my prayers!
So sorry to hear about your diagnosis. Good luck and best wishes you will be in my prayers.
I am so sorry. Prayers.
Praying for your wellness and emotional, mental and physical health. Arm yourself with all of the information that you need so that you do not over stress yourself worry. Most of all continue to enjoy your life.
Sorry for the diagnosis. Prayers for patience and healing coming
your way! Thank you for sharing.
Dear Lord be with Mary in this difficult time. Thank you for the strength you have given her and for her medical training that helps her to understand and keep focused. Thank you for her outlets in quilting and teaching through her quilting. Be with Keith as he finds new ways to keep everyone upbeat and happy. We know that Mary is in Your perfect plan and that You have only the very best for her. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen
Take care Mary. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Keeping you in thoughts and prayers 😉
Call it a healing journal. I recently went through cancer myself, and although I didn’t keep a journal, I wish I had. Best wishes for a successful treatment !
So sorry to hear about that. I hope you have a speedy recovery. Thanks for sharing. I was wondering how things had gone but didn’t want to invade your privacy.
Sending prayers for peace, comfort and a speedy cancer free recovery from the next surgery.
Mary, it certainly is not what you hoped for but you will find your way through this journey. Keeping you in thoughts and prayers each day. Please check in with Jo Kramer of Jo’s Country Junction, I know she could be a great resource and blessing to you as she is also on this path.
Take things One Day at A Time and do not get ahead of yourself. Things are going to constantly change and you can’t control that. Maximize today and make the most of it for yourself and your loved ones. Each new day is a blessing. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
OK Lady, it is time to fight. The C is no match for you, you will always be the winner. And remember all of us are with you. Now put up boxing gloves everyone.
So sorry Mary. Long time reader and I don’t even sew much anymore. I just love to follow along with your life and watch your grandkids grow. Your an inspiration to me, your walking has encouraged me to get a fitbit and start tracking my walking to get back into shape again. Maybe one day I’ll do some kind of group walk.
I know you can beat this and you have your online family for support. Prayers to you, stay positive and watch funny shows on tv to keep you laughing. ((hugs))
As you probably know, as cancers go, this one is a good one to have. Very treatable. You will have a few intense months, then life will return to normal. Sending you positive thoughts for the months ahead.
Sending you love and prayers.
Mary: I wish you peace as you wait and heal. Thank you for sharing your real life and your beautiful quilts with us.
So sorry to hear this diagnosis. Will keep you and your family in my prayers. May you take comfort in knowing that many people are concerned for you and wishing you healing and comfort on your journey.
We are all on this journey through life and friends and family support us along the way. Sometimes comfort comes from unexpected places. Be brave and strong knowing that many people are praying for your recovery. Blessings and peace!
Sending love and prayers for your recovery!
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
So sorry to hear your news. Sending you hugs and prayers.
Darlis
This result is definitely not the one hoped or prayed for … the prayers now shift to prayers for your physical and emotional comfort as you begin the next part of this journey. Many prayers for successful treatment and a full recovery.
Sending positive thoughts and prayers your way. The journal is a good idea and the perfect place to record your thoughts and to vent.
Love and hugs to you, Mary!
May your journey be smooth and life learning. You never know when something you have said is just what another needed to hear. Wishing the best from your treatment and a complete recovery
Thinking of you and praying for your complete recovery. You can just call it a “Life” Journal. Try to have a good day. God loves you. And so do I. Thank you for sharing.
I am a private person and was reluctant to talk about my breast cancer except for family and close friends. Those of us that read your blog regularly will be happy with whatever you want to share. You have a good positive attitude and will do well. Hugs and prayers.
Oh Mary I am so sorry to hear of your Cancer news but I know that Thyroid cancer is very Treatable. You are in my prayers.
My thoughts and best wishes are being sent your way. Make sure to look after yourself and take the time you need to heal and be happy.
Hugs, prayers, positive thoughts going out for you and your family.