She Leaves a Little Sparkle Wherever She Goes: December 2014

We knew that the pathology would take some time, but based on what the surgeon thought he saw, our oncologist decided to proceed with Round 2 of chemo. We were admitted almost two weeks ago for Calleigh's second "A" round of chemo. She did well, just like last time. No nausea or vomiting and we were able to come home within 24 hours.
Playing the waiting game for the pathology has been very difficult. We have worried constantly. I have alternated between fear, anxiety, anger, depression, and everything in between. Every waking moment of this time was agony waiting for the phone call. Although we expected positive results, we also didn't expect to have a second surgery and scary MRIs so we felt like we had to prepare ourselves for the worst. The house may look festive, but I didn't feel very "Christmasy." Seeing everyone else enjoying the holidays made me very upset because I felt I could not. Frankly, I was jealous. Lance held me up quite frequently during these days as I felt scattered and unable to focus. A very big thanks to him for keeping me together.
Finally Friday the oncologist called and said that the pathology report reflected their initial impressions were correct. The "growing" spot was radiation injury and not tumor. This is such an answered prayer because we would not have had many options had it been recurrent tumor. So we are clear to continue our current treatment plan. We will go in for Round 3 in January and then we will be 1/3 of the way through her chemo.
We feel like we can breathe and relax a little now. We can enjoy the holidays with our family, especially Calleigh. She is excited for Christmas and asking why it takes so long to come. I love the holiday traditions we have as a family: our tree full of special ornaments, shopping trips to Charlotte, the Blackwell lights, our elf Sparkle, and on and on. I received my Christmas gift already and we are so blessed that Calleigh is here and able to celebrate with us.
Thank you for continuing to pray for us and support us through this journey. We may bend, but we will not be broken by this. We hope you have a wonderful Christmas!