Monday, October 12, 2009

October 6, 2009

"Well...it is cancer."

She wasn't supposed to say that. She wasn't even my doctor.

A week earlier she'd performed the biopsy, removed three tumors.

Now she was back, talking about mastectomy, lymph nodes and reconstruction.

That was Tuesday, October 6.


Friday was Template Day - Total Evaluation and Management PLAnning of your Treatment Experience. What it really means is that I met my radiation oncologist, medical oncologist, plastic surgeon, geneticist, and psychologist, who asked, "how are you doing?" "Fine," I responded, with the crazy-Deneitra look: pinched up nose, Grinch-like eyebrows squeezing together. Before I knew it, the afternoon was over, and I was scheduled for surgery.


Now I have to tell the people that I care about. This is how I'm going to do it.

16 comments:

  1. Deneitra,
    My thoughts are with you! I love you and your family as if you were my own. I guess what I am saying is that I am praying for you lots and I wish that this had never happened. The Renewal, Hope, and Healing Prayer Book is on its way. I might have mispelled your last name, and if so I apologize. I am looking into my BRCA test next week. Love to you and the whole family! Ginger

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  2. Dear Deneitra, I am so sorry to hear this! I am praying for you right now, my dear friend and will continue to pray for you daily!

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  3. Me: shock. then crying. then why you, of all people? it seems so unfair. why anyone? it's so sudden, all the decisions all at once, everything so immediate. what can i do for you? how can i get there? how can i give you a hug from so far away?

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  4. Deneitra,

    I am sooo sorry to hear this! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please let me know if there is anything I can do.

    Amy

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  5. It is scary, shocking and surreall all at the same time. I know how you feel because that is how it felt to me when I got my cancer diagnosis last year. But you know, I got so much I knowing that I had the unconditional support of God, my family and freinds like you. Know that I am here for you as you were for me. Keep your head up and let's kick some cancer butt!! Always in prayer with the blessings and love of the Savior. Sonja B

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  6. Words can't express our shock. We promise to pray faithfully for you and your beloved family. Please keep us informed about how we may pray for you or provide for you practically.
    With love,
    Ami

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  7. I'm so glad all went well! Sending you lots of healing energy, love, hugs and kisses! You are a very special lady that has a heart of gold, so keep that wonderful smile on your face, those good healthy thoughts in your head and most of all your great sense of humor. In calm and stormy weather you are one of my life's greatest blessings.

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  8. Hi! It's Eileen, your newest Pokeno buddy. I haven't known you long but your news deeply moved me. Just the speed at which it all happened to you... what a life changing week you had. I am so glad to hear that you are doing well and that you are in good spirits. The range of emotions you feel is something I can't imagine. I will be thinking of you every day and wishing you well.
    Hearts, Clubs, Diamonds, and Spades,
    Eileen

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  9. Dee,
    You know we love you and your entire family. You have not left our thoughts and prayers since we heard. If anyone can beat this it is you!!! Please let us know how we can help you all.
    Love,
    The Quicks

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  10. Dear Deneitra,

    I am so sorry to hear about this storm you have entered. I know there aren't any words I could possibly say that could comfort you.

    I will tell you, instead, that I am praying that it is God's will to restore you to full health as are my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. I have witnessed the prayers of the righteous availing much. I hope not to come across as a holy rolly but I do have a strong faith in God based on my own life experiences. I have seen some several close friends and relatives beat incredible odds against cancer so I know what God can do. I am praying for His deliverance and healing for you.

    Please know my prayers and love are with you constantly.

    Love,

    Sonya A.

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  11. Deneitra, every collegiate experience I shared with you was all "sunshine and light" because that's what you are. Your strength is amazing and your sense of humor, priceless. I know that both will carry you through.
    Prayerfully,
    Sharon Watkins Jones

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  12. I'm finally able to comment! I am thinking of you and your courage to face this. Know that there are many people who care, and I will watch over Chris.

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  13. You are amazing. I am still laughing about what you wrote. I think our President should make a personal visit to your house for causing such a delay. Smile!!! I do hope that today is an okay day for you. Tell Jeff and the boys hello. Thank Jeff for the sacrifice he makes to keep us all safe. Be Blessed!!!
    Sonja B

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  14. Deneitra and Jeff, I wanted to thank you. Each year on special occasions and throughout the holidays I look forward to receiving your cards and gifts for the kids. I often feel Kim and I have been negligent in our reciprocation, especially this year which has posed some extreme challenges for you and your family. Please know this, not a day passes when you are not in our thoughts and prayers. I know we don't often say it, but we LOVE you. I hope this holiday season brings you all the happiness the world has to give. Whatever you need we will be here for you. Hopefully, we will see you all soon.

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  15. Hello Deneitra,
    The time is now, that you are your best. Not only in prayer for yourself but for your babies and family members aswell. You are a prayful fighter, that describes our family history, who better knows cancer than the dreadful disease itself. Ofcourse, we are saddened by the news, but knowing "The Great Physician", makes everything much better. It is my prayer that you will not worry during this period of your illness. Rest in knowing that Jesus listens and answers prayers.

    Love You Hutchbunch,
    Your Sister Yolanda

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  16. Hello Deneitra and Jeff,

    I just received your beautiful Christmas card with the boys and saw the blogspot address and wanted to let you know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. If we can ever be of service to you all, please know that you've a friend and extended family here in Princeton New Jersey.
    May God watch over you all and help you overcome this challenging time.
    In Jesus' name,
    Adolphus Gwynn

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