Update on Myrna's mother #2

Sorry folks. I haven't sent this update in a while. Here's where we are to date.

Myrna's mother (Evelyn) was informed by the oncologist on Wednesday that she has malignant breast cancer. The cancer has metastasized to the brain where she has three lesions, one is approximately an inch in size and the other two are very small. She was sent immediately to the radiation therapists for further consultation. They agreed that she should go forward with radiation therapy on the brain (which was begun on Wednesday with the second treatment being today and the rest following every work day) with the aim to be reducing or eradicating the lesions. Those are the most life threatening at the moment. Left untreated, she would have 2-4 months; treated, anywhere from 2-10 years, or who knows when but at least longer than 2-4 months. She is trying to figure out whether life is worth it if she's going to die anyway; why not just get it over with. On the other hand, the will to live is so very evident. She's still fighting. She is still active, able to get around, operate her life with the exception that she is not allowed to drive, at least while the radiation is going on. After 10 treatments of radiation, she will be finished with that. Then, decisions will need to be made regarding the other possibilities. She is to have a PET scan on December 5th. That will show microscopic cancer cells all through her body, should they exist. Other exams do not reveal any other abnormalities, for which we are thankful. The PET scan will reveal what, if any, further treatment is needed beyond the radiation.

Many of you have prayed for us. Thank you! We don't know what will happen next. We just know that God has heard your prayers and that he will give strength in this hectic time.

Myrna's brother and his family have come for a visit for Thanksgiving. One of his children was sitting on my lap. She turned to me, out of the blue, and started singing, "Jesus loves me this I know; for the Bible tells me so; little ones to Him belong; they are weak but He is strong." Yes, Jesus loves us. To feel His love, to know He cares, to know He understands is worth it.

I will continue to update you as we learn more, so expect the next update around December 5th. May God bless each of you.