You never know what choices you will actually make or how you will respond to bad news until the idea of the bad news becomes reality. Six months ago if I had been asked if I would ever do chemo, my answer would likely have been no. Truthfully, the idea of chemo and the side effects scares me. I'm sure it would scare anyone. The last few months have showed me that you just never know...I start chemo tomorrow. 

I have seen several oncologists and researched conventional and non-conventional options and have decided that the best fit for me is to combine both. This option is not readily available so I am so thankful it is close enough to Milwaukee that I can drive, stay for a few days, and then drive back home. Treatment will take place at the Block Center in Chicago: http://www.blockmd.com/

This morning my friend Magda went with me to have the port put in and then we went to the Block Center were I got a high dose vitamin C treatment, worked with a physical therapist and met with the PA's and nurses to prepare for tomorrow. Chemo will take 5 months, 16 rounds total, and I am still considering radiation. In the mean time the team I work with will focus on nutrition changes, lifestyle and rehabilitation, all while going through chemo. The additional treatments will not prolong my recovery and they are individualized specifically for me--which is my favorite part.

I know people go through this everyday and I am amazed and thankful for the people I have met along the way. Their stories encourage me and the doctors and nurses at Froedert and the Block Center have been amazing. I have no idea how I will react to chemo, which makes me nervous, but I am feeling more positive and that I finally have some direction.

Also, thank you for being hopeful and positive for me these past few months when I have struggled. The email, calls and texts really do bless me.