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Cancer

I knew that there would be rumors going around the neighborhood so I though I would write about what we are going through. Then, I don't have to tell every detail of the story hundreds of times. :o) I wish I could say that I was using the term cancer in terms of something else spreading in my life but unfortunately it is used in association with my husband.

Mark went to Germany at the end of October and caught the cold that one of his associates had. Weeks later Mark's cough was still lingering and I was convinced that he had pneumonia again. 2 weeks ago as Mark was getting ready for work I bugged him (again) about getting that stupid cough checked out. He decided that it was finally bugging him enough that he would go into the doctor that day and get it checked.

The doctor checked many things. He ran a full blood screen, checked for TB, and did an x-ray to look for pneumonia. At that point he noticed a spot on Mark's lung that wasn't consistent with pneumonia but was more consistent with a growth. The doctor prescribed antibiotics for pneumonia but ordered a CT scan to be done to check the spot. Last Friday Mark went in for his first CT scan. The results showed a 3cm growth on his right lung. Unfortunately the growth is too close to Mark's aorta to be able to biopsy it immediately so a second more specialized CT scan was ordered to check the nodule for things like color, shape, and growth. That scan was done yesterday and we received the results this morning.

Mark has been diagnosed with Bronchogenic Carcinoma, which basically means that the growth is most likely cancerous and he needs to have a biopsy immediately. We meet with a pulmonologist next Tuesday to determine when that surgery will be and what other steps need to be taken.

In the face of all of this I stand strong and testify that the Lord watches over us. I have already felt the strength of the Lord through the prayers of our families. I am not scared. That doesn't mean that I haven't cried, trust me I have, but I feel so much peace. Mark and I have been through so much in our lives. Trial has become like a second language to us. We have learned through years of trial to rely on the most constant of all things in this universe and that is the love, hope, and faith that the Lord offers us. I love my Savior and trust in His infinite wisdom. I pray that as each of you read this that you will be blessed with the same knowledge and peace that Mark and I have.

Comments

RSCE said…
You guys are some of the strongest people I know I admire you so so much, our prayers are with you, let us know what we can do for you, we love you all.
rachel said…
oh, Becky, what insane news. I will definitely keep you, Mark,and your family in my prayers. Please let me know if I can do anything for you!
Naoma said…
You are one amazing, strong and faithful woman. I am so sorry that you have this trial. Please let me know if there is anything I can ever do. I will keep you guys in my prayers.
Kate said…
Oh, that is so scary. What a wonderful blessing the gospel is, that we know how to find some sort of peace amidst our trials. Let me know what I can do to help! Love you guys!
Dione said…
By the way, we are bringing your family dinner tonight. It would have been last night if I had been home. I suggested to John that we wait till Tuesday since you will be at the doctor's that day, but he is insisting on NOW! I'm only telling you this because I think it's sweet that he loves you guys so much and wants to do something for you. So, don't fix anything tonight. I'll call with the details. Can I watch Jillian on Tuesday?
My prayers are with your family. I am so glad you are being blessed with peace. Let me know if I can do anything.
Jymn and Shelby said…
Put the Edwards' Family on the list of people who love the Leonards' and appreciate Becky's testimony on love, hope and faith. Our family, including Dominic (our 3yr old), is praying for you.
Nielson said…
oh, Becky--I am so sorry! I so admire you for your strength and positive attitude and I always appreciate hearing your testimony. We love you and your family!
ellie may said…
I'm so sorry about the news aunt becky. :( I had just had a seminary lesson, right before my mom told me the news, about how trials come into our life that lord knows we can handle and that we get through them by looking for the best in the situation. Come what may and love it. Its so rough. But I look up to you guys and how strong you are. I love you guys so so much and am keeping Uncle Mark and the family in my prayers.
Your Refried Beans
Becky - I'm sorry you are dealing with this. Rob's brother is going through chemo and radiation right now for throat cancer, so I understand some of what you are feeling.

You want to stay positive, but it's hard sometimes. It is easy to feel like, if we allow ourselves to cry or be down, that we aren't exhibiting faith...but that's not true. Having faith doesn't mean we'll never have tears or fears. It just means that we know, whatever the outcome, we will be okay. It means we trust the Lord's promises that our family will be forever.

I wish we could be there to give you meals, food, babysitting, and anything else you need. Please know that if you ever want to talk, I'm here. I've emailed my work and home numbers to you.

Much Love - Sheri
Toone's Goones said…
I am at a loss for words! I had not heard until I read this blog. Know that love and prayers are coming from Mark's home state of Colorado. Love you all so much!

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