Difficult Converstions

Last night we went over to my in-laws. For one reason, because it was Jan's birthday (Will's mom). We ate pound cake and drank decaf coffee.

And then we sat together as Jan shared with us about the treatments she'll be receiving for the next several months.

Last week, Jan was diagnosed with breast cancer. We have since learned that it is stage 3 cancer and is also in her lymph nodes. They have identified it as inflammatory breast cancer and she was diagnosed through a biopsy she had after finding a lump before Christmas. It was just over a year ago that Perry was diagnosed with and treated for colon cancer. It's hard to believe that it would strike a family twice in such a short amount of time.

And while the conversation was dificult, it was also hopeful. It was hopeful because there is treatment for her and her odds are good. It was hopeful because Jan is focused on the future and not getting stuck on asking "why me." It is hopeful because she has so, so many friends and family who want to help her and support her. It is hopeful because she plans to fight it and not let it beat her. It is hopeful because she knows she can get through it, as they have been through this before.

In my heart, Jan is already a survivor. But, she has a long road ahead of her. It's during times like these that it's time to take stock of blessings.

It's a reminder that life is actually fragile and can be taken at any time.

It's a reminder that sometimes we have inner resouces that we didn't even realize.

It's a reminder that, no matter what, it's the people you love in life that are the most important.