14 September 2010

cancer and i coexisted pretty well together... until chemo came along

as most of you know, i went to the walk-in in july 2009 for some random chest pain that occurred following a business trip to france. to rule out the possibility of a blood clot from flying, i had a CT scan with nothing observed and was sent home. after my CT scan in july 2010 revealed these tumors, we revisited my july 2009 scan and realized that (in retrospect) the cancer had started growing at that point and was likely the cause of my discomfort.

it's amazing to think that from july 2009 - july 2010 this cancer and i coexisted so peacefully (with the exception of my raging skin). i got married with cancer. i took this cancer on some great trips... australia, france, florida, to name a few. we went to endless parties and celebrations together. we learned to sail together. we spent a lot of time at work together. we created countless memories with family and friends together. little did i know i had these masses tagging along for a good part of 2009 and 2010. i never felt sick... in fact i didn't have a single cold during this period! i miraculously avoided the night sweats, fatigue, rib pain and other symptoms that come along with lymphoma. i'd like to credit my body for being strong enough to stave off illness and keep this cancer at bay for so long.

chemo, on the other hand, is a different story. it's funny how the process of getting better is what makes you feel and look sick. if late 2009 and early 2010 were as amazing as they were with tumors in tow, i can't wait for late 2011 and early 2012. this cancer will miss out on some good times!!

10 comments:

Unknown said...

2 green bracelets were put on yesterday. Begone 2010.

It's a Baltimore Life said...

We got our bracelets yesterday too!! I'll be sending a picture soon!

Anonymous said...

hi doll, i'm sporting the most amazing bracelet right now... thinking about you!! much love,
mere

Dad said...

My sixth grade students asked about my sporty, new bracelet today. When I told them the "Julie Story" they all wanted to join the "I Will Fight" team....some with tears in their eyes. Kids are great!!....Julie, your army of supporters continues to grow.
xo
Dad

Anonymous said...

A Moment Changes Everything...

The stolen glances, broken threads
The visions looming in our heads
The years spent running parallel
To everything that might have been
No longer possible to hide
The feeling welling up inside
I’ve never been this close before
I’ve never felt so far away

When a moment
A moment changes everything

The summer sky is blushing pink
The heart is running out of sync
Could this just be the day, I think
When anything is possible!

A moment changes everything Jules. Everything is possible!

Each moment now is a moment closer to your glorious recovery.

gene said...

my new "irish bracelet" is a beautiful reminder jules that you have a tremendous army willing to support you in your fight. It will be done.

Anonymous said...

Jules, i would be honored to wear a bracelet,it would be a great reminder to think of you and your struggle. When I look down, I will think of the beautiful young women with the heart of a lion...Love,Jane
PS Keep an eye on those healthcare mishaps ;)

Unknown said...

Jules, Caity and I are sporting our bracelets!! We'll send some good pics to you soon. Caity told me she already sent you the one of George wearing it... We're like little kids around that cat...
Hope you're feeling well, and hope to talk to you soon!!

-Paul

Unknown said...

jules your wonderful attitude and this post in particular brings tears to my eyes -- keepy fighting girlie, i love you!

Cyndie Gauvin said...

Hi Jules,
Just wanted you to know that I just found out bout this blog today. I am so happy to support you thru this journey. Since the first day I heard the news, the only thing that I find myself saying is "If anyone can beat this, Julia can!". Your attitude and outlook on life is just amazing. I have always looked up to you and now even more. You will be hearing more from me now that I am following.Also, probably a silly question, but if you have anymore green bracelets, I would love to receive 2 - to wear proudly! Much love, xoxo (497 Dillon Lane, Swansea, MA 02777)