X-post: Update on my life

Hey Everyone,

When I told you I wouldn't be around much, I didn't really anticipate just how absent I would be.  I'll start with the good news.

My career is still moving forward at an awesome rate.  I am showing that I am a very good program manager, my programs are doing very well, I am turning in my work on time and helping others when they need help with their work.  My knowledge on our new website (me having computer knowledge is pretty scary since I don't really know much.....) is a big advantage.  I am now the content manager on three of the webpages on our new website. 

As I said, the career is going very well.

Now the not so good. 

Six weeks ago, I was with my cousin when she got a diagnosis of cancer.  She had a tumor in one kidney.  The kidney was removed the next week, she is doing well.

the next week, my brother Mike (the only brother I have left as my brother Rich died very unexpectedly 3.5 years ago) was advised there was something on his lungs.  The next week, we were told it was lung cancer.  The week after, we were told it is stage 4, incurable but treatable.  He is now on a course of chemo.

And this week, we found out that my aunt has a cancerous tumor in her kidney, another tumor on her adrenal gland and likely two cancerous tumors on her liver.  I say likely on the liver as she was unable to stay in the MRI long enough for them to get a look at those two tumors. 

So, three close family members diagnosed with cancer in the last six weeks.  Mind you, we have never had cancer in our family before.  It's been a very rough time for us.  We are shell-shocked, scared and just getting through one day at a time.

I will point out, it is times like this that I remember how fortunate I am to have my band.  Through all of this, I have maintained my weight ranging between my normal 128-132.  Nothing spectacular, just doing what I am supposed to do with the help of my band.  I know that without this band, I would be putting eating everything in sight and putting on weight.  I know this because I have done it in times of stress before.

I will try to be around a bit more, but remember I am always just a PM away.

Take care.

Vicki...

I am so sorry to hear about all the cancer that ha**** your family in the last few weeks. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

But on the positive note... CONGRATS on your career and how well everything is going for you.

BTW - when is your commerial airing on the radio?

Helen

Thank you, Helen.  We are keeping very positive thoughts and planning good outcomes for everyone.  Nothing else is acceptable.

The commercial is airing now.  I have not heard it since I don't listen to KMPS, but my daughter heard it.  In fact, I was in DC when she called to say, "I heard my Mommy on the radio!" 

I guess I should say, I have heard the ad since it was emailed to me - I just haven't heard on the radio.  They used the part where I said I do headstands in yoga.  They used some other soundbites too, but I don't remember what I said on the rest of it. 

Yes, it is good that the career is going well.  Also, I forgot to say that David and I are moving back to Tacoma.  Well, back to Tacoma for me since that's home.  It will be the first time he has ever lived in Tacoma.  I am very excited to be getting back closer to my family.  Especially considering everything that is going on.  It just feels like I need to be there.

Take care,

As a cancer survivor myself I understand the fear involved just know that many others have gone before your family and are also survivors. Find a really good cancer treatment center and they will take the very best care possible of your family members. I was totally amazed at the kindness and caring I was shown. Congrats on your career successes!

Thank you. 

My sympathies.  You certainly have many challenges here.  Just remember, if you don't take care of yourself first, you can't help anyone help.  

Thanks Karen.

Fortunately, I have a very good support system for me.  First and foremost, I have my daughter (she's 23) and David and I have some wonderful friends who know what is going on and take care of me.

I raised my daughter as a single parent and she is the quintessential "mini-me!"  She understands what I need, listens, calms me and gets me through it.  Basically, what I do for my Mom, sister and the rest of the family.

David is very good about understanding that I need someone who will hold my hand while I cry.  When I lose it, that is.  Most of the time I am being "the strong one." 

And with my particular job, I have the flexibility to work whenever.  I have permission to work whatever hours of the day I need to work to get my time in, to take whatever leave is necessary and I know that if I ask for help, I will have it. 

All of that is my silver lining in this situation.

Thanks for caring.

Vicki,

I am so very sorry to hear of the hard times for your family.  Just remember to take care of yourself as well as them.  Cancer is scary but it is very treatable these days, even the "incureable" kind.

Please also remember that we are here for you too as a shoulder to cry on if you need it, or a ear to listen with out judgement for venting.

(((Hugs)))

Thanks so much Jilly.  I appreciate the support. 

Take care.

Wow , Vicki , your family sure got hit hard all at once . I'm sorry . Having one diagnosis is rough to deal with , but three family members , that's beyond words . I'm glad you have such a good support system .
Congratulations on your career success . I'm glad you get to move back home . I'm sure that will make things a little easier , as you'll be closer to your family . I listen to KMPS & i've heard the commercial . I bet that was a funny feeling for your daughter to hear your voice on the radio . Keep us posted . And remember , you don't have to be the strong one here . There are some pretty strong shoulders , here . xoxox Kathy