No words can express the feelings of comfort and strength I received from your prayers and faith last go-round, which is why I want you all to know what we're facing now -- so we can get your continued support and pleading prayers.
After constant vertigo, headaches and vision problems the last month or so, and various other tests (retinal scans, hormone checks, blood work) to determine the cause, my oncologist sent me in for a MRI on Thursday. Friday afternoon we found out that I have 5 large tumors and several other smaller tumors on my brain, accompanied with fluid and swelling (hence the pressure, headaches, and vision problems). Apprently in only 20% of patients where cancer is in body does the cancer spread to the brain. I've been in the small percentile for everything else, why not this I guess?
Radiation is the only route for treating my brain tumors, because there’s just too much for surgery to be a viable option. (doesn’t bother me any – I don’t want anyone cutting into my brain—yikes!) After some deliberation, we decided to do pin-pointed radiation where I’ll be sedated and treated for approx 5 hours for three different sessions, each a week or so apart. If we radiate any other way, I’ll experience hair loss and possible cognitive impairment. It all sounds scary, but I know it’ll be okay. The brain specialist was very encouraging. Though the likelihood of tumors coming back after radiation may be high, he made it sound like he believes they can treat and kill them all as they arise.
I really tried not to let myself get emotional over all this. I've learned that tears accompanied with fear don't do any good, but the few hours between the diagnosis and meeting with the brain specialist I was a bit shaken up and frustrated that my family has to ride this roller coaster again (the one ride that's not so fun and certainly makes one sick to the stomach!). Now that we have a plan of attack, though, I feel greatly relieved and am in fight mode again. Now my tears come from the outpour of love I feel from each of you again.
Also, I had a beautiful priesthood blessing by Richard and Gary Raymond, wherein I received tremendous comfort and a promise that miracles will be repeated. I know that if I receive a fraction of the faith and prayers that you all offered me last go-round, there’s no doubt that everything will turn out okay. So here we go again…..Thanks for supporting our family through what seems like endless trials lately.
Please know that the love we have for you is indescribable! You are our sustenance!
Oh, Bri!! I'm so sorry. We will have you in our prayers. Keep fighting! You are an inspiration.
ReplyDeleteHi Bri, we love you so much! My family will keep you in our prayers. Know that you are such an example to me, you are a fighter!! I love that light in your eyes and your bright smile. Lots of love, ale
ReplyDeleteHi Bri, We are so sorry to hear this news:( Like you said they are not fun at all... We can't imagine what you are going through, but you are such a strong daughter of God and He loves you. We have not doubt about it. Even though we can't understand the reasoning behind our trials it helps to know of His infinite love for us and His desire for our eternal progression and growth as a loving Father. You and your family will be in our prayers and those of our families. Faith moves mountains and it can move this new one for you. Please feel our love and support. We love you. You can do this. Diana and Rob
ReplyDeleteBri- you and your family are in mine and Travis' thoughts and prayers. I know it's crazy because we haven't seen you for years, but we love you. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteWe're here for you and your family, and any thoughts and prayers you need. You're such an amazing person, mentally and physically. You're a fighter and I know you will get through this too. Go get them girl!
ReplyDeleteYou were already my hero. Could you stop being so dang righteous...cause I don't know many people that are as capable of the challanges that you face but I really believe that we are not given more than we are capable of! All of my love and prayers are with you and I would love to help in any way that I can
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to let you know you are in our thoughts and prayers! We love your family and want to help in any way we can.
ReplyDeleteBriana,
ReplyDeleteMy prayers and thoughts are with you as you go through this next adventure in your life.....I know it isn't a fun adventure but I also know that God will be with you and that you will be okay. I will take care of Kade at school....just focus on yourself.
Charlene Willey
Hello again.. I follow your blog still and was sad to see this last post from you with this news..
ReplyDeleteHowever, My prayer is that you will remain strong as you prepare to endure the trial and know that many will Pray for you and for the comfort you will need.. Mathew still has vertigo and headaches and I am going to tell him to go get an MRI done too.. Cancer sucks but it amazes me how close it brings us together and that God works in mysterious ways to bring His children closer together..
Keep up the fight Briana and know that even though we don't "KNOW YOU" as such you will be in our daily prayers...
Maxine and Mathew Arrington
Anything and it is yours. I love you Bri!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to see another miracle. I'm sorry that you are the one who has to go through all the pain and that we are the ones who get to have our faith strengthened by witnessing the miracle. I know that you will be healed again. I wish that I lived closer to be able to help you. I love you tons and will be there anytime you need me. I just need a day or two notice to get a plane ticket out there. Remain strong and we will continue to plead for you in our prayers. I am so proud to say that you are my sister. Love ya.
ReplyDeleteBriana, Heaven is hearing from me again. I cant believe this is happening to you. I am relieved to hear that you are determined, don't you let go of that. I feel helpless from here, what can I do? I can pray, He accommodates me more often than not. Call me arrogant but I believe that I pray for the best causes... my voice is quiet and calm in Heaven, so when I get a bit loud, I think they notice that something serious is going on.
ReplyDeleteWe will all pray again, and get a little louder than usual, and with any luck we will cause the miracles to reoccur.
briana. i am so sorry to hear this;( you and your family is so strong, you will definitely be blessed. i will continue thinking and praying for you.....i just got a message from natalie that shes going to take your family pics???? smile big and post em up fast, that gal does fabulous work and you have a gorgeous family so i cant wait to see these pictures! love you mucho!!!
ReplyDeleteBriana you have been a strength to so many of us. Our prayers are always with you. I cannot imagine how you feel, but admire your strength and faith. You can overcome this!
ReplyDeleteBri, you are so amazing. If anyone can do it, you can! You are in our prayers.
ReplyDeleteI am Lindsey Waites friend and she updates me on how your doing. Although I don't know you, I am also a young mother and have such a desire for you to make it through strong. I want you to know my families prayers will be with you.
ReplyDelete