The Beginning

Roughly one month ago (early September) Nancy noticed something was not right.
Since she had a mammogram in January that was clear; she asked the doctor to order another one.
This mammogram showed a mass 5 cm long (roughly 2").
A biopsy was performed and determined the tumor was malignant.
The next step was to find a surgeon and oncologist.
Fortunately she was able to find a surgeon to see her right away.
The official diagnosis was invasive lobular cancer; meaning it had spread beyond the breast. In this case it spread to the lymph nodes. The surgeon ordered a full scan of the body to see if the cancer had spread to other parts of the body.

After the surgeon confirmed the diagnosis, she recommended a plan.

• Due to the size of the tumor; chemotherapy first to shrink the tumor
• Chemo every three weeks ...six treatments (18 weeks total)
• Followed by surgery
• Followed by radiation...five days a week for six weeks
• Followed by follow up care

On Monday 10/15 we spent the day having MRIs and Cat Scans done to see if the cancer had spread to other parts of her body.

That evening we met with her oncologist (one of the best in the area) and also his nurse practitioner.

• The best news we received was that the cancer had not spread to other areas
• The doctor wanted to get the chemo started right away so on on Friday 10/19 we made an appointment at Christ Hospital (Nancy's request since she has a friend who works there).

Nancy and I appreciate all of the love and support of our friends and family.

Thank you.

Bob