Saturday, June 20, 2009

Fight Like a Girl

My mom has cancer.

She was diagnosed about two weeks ago. Not only does my mother have to deal with the emotional aspects of such a dreaded diagnosis, but the physical treatment as well. In the hospital, she received twelve units of blood because her hemoglobin levels were life-threateningly low. She's undergone a chemotherapy treatment and daily radiation. And this is just the beginning - all of this will continue for six to eight weeks.

I didn't know how to blog about this. I mean, after "My mom has cancer," what else is there? It turns out, there's plenty.

My mom has been staying with us for the past week, and I've been watching her closely. I've been looking for the signs that mean I have to take her back to the hospital. I've been checking with her a million times each day to see if she's nauseas or tired. Is she sleeping well? Does she need medicine for pain? For a headache? Is she hungry?

In watching her, I've noticed my mother is exhausted. But even more than that, I've been reminded of just how strong she is. She hasn't had the breakdown I expected. In fact, she feels lucky. Lucky she didn't bleed to death two Sundays ago. Lucky she's not the 38-year-old woman we met at the cancer center this week. Lucky she's not taking one of her children for radiation, like the young mom we see each day. Lucky her cancer's not worse...

And so she's fighting. With all she has. She's getting up each day and letting her doctors poison and burn her body, so the cancer goes away. She's scared, but she's plowing ahead anyway. Her strength makes me, her scared little girl, have hope. It gives me the certainty that she will beat this.

Fight it, Mom. Fight like the girl you are. I'm right next to you, battling on your side. Besides, you've already won. Cancer has nothing over you.

14 comments:

Ashlee said...

What a moving post. I'll keep you and your mom in my prayers.

Ruth said...

We will lift your mom in prayer. You can depend on us as prayer warriors!!!! Love to you, Chris and Evie.

Ruth and Allison

Alexandra said...

we are praying hard for her! and for you...remember to take care of yourself too!

Jackie said...

Sarah, I am praying for you and your mom right now. I can't imagine what all you are going through right now, but I know that you WILL get through this. Hugs, my friend.

Scarlet O'Kara said...

Oh Sarah...you and your mom are in my prayers. If you need anything, let me know...

Unknown said...

So very sorry to hear this. Please know that so many people are sending healing messages your way and to your mother.
from Fiona's Mom

jennifer said...

praying for you and your mom.

JOYFUL447 said...

sarah - we love you! Be thankful you can be with your mom as she goes through this. Tears at my heart for so many reasons, i know you're a strong, good daughter and your mom is very fortunate she has you to help her through this! Another mini-chris will help her fight even harder! She is very lucky and we all know it takes a lot of prayer, faith and strength to get through this. i love you.

Alaina @ Three Ladies and a Dad said...

I am sending many prayers for your family right now. (((hugs)))

Prasti said...

will be praying for you and your mother. sorry to hear a/b this.

Sara @ Life With the Two said...

Praying for your whole family.

Remember it's one day at a time.
Lots of love!

Jen said...

You and your mom are in my prayers...

casual friday every day said...

If there is anything I can do for you, please let me know.

Nell

Shari Baby said...

yes i agree w/ joy. i just now am catching up with your blog from june! i'm getting back in the swing of things. your mom sent us a note saying 'thank you' for our note just the other day. that was very nice of her in the midst of her battle. i know she's doing better but i'm sure still hurting. she's still in our prayers. love you guys.