One year since we went to our pediatrician’s office for the red spots on his neck. One year since we were sent to get blood work done. One year since we were rushed off to Lutheran General to get more extensive testing done. One year since we first heard the words “there is something wrong with his blood work.” One year since we met an Oncologist. One year since we heard “CANCER”. One year since “acute lymphoblastic leukemia” became a common household phrase. One year ago, today our seemingly perfectly healthy 20-month-old Lukas was diagnosed with cancer. It’s been one year since our entire world fell apart. 1 year. 12 months. 52 weeks. 365 days. 8765 Hours. 525,600 Minutes. 31,536,000 Seconds. March 19th – Our official “cancerversary” Dr. Agrawal, placing her hand on my knee, said, “I am so sorry, it looks like Lukas has leukemia, its cancer.” Words that I will NEVER forget. The moment our life changed forever. That one sentence changed the trajectory of our whole life. Throughout the last 365 days, Lukas has endured: − 59 IV chemo doses − 191 oral chemo doses − 52 steroid doses − 42 doctor visits − 36 needle pokes − 14 procedures under sedation − 3 hospital stays − 5 ER visits − 5 blood transfusions − 3 platelet transfusions − 4 X-rays − 1 surgery for port placement - 1 broken foot − Countless antibiotic doses This was the start of Lukas’ story! There are really no words to describe the feeling of those first few days, weeks and months. Anger, sadness, shock, disbelief, grief, fear, and denial are among many of the feelings that consumed me, and I still feel them today at different points of time. I don’t think those feelings will truly every leave me, but they do subside after time. We were overwhelmed by the news and all the information we received. Overwhelmed at the thoughts of our new normal. Overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from our family, friends, and community. One year ago today was absolutely soul-crushing, but I want to reflect on this year the way Lukas has faced it — with bravery, courage, and strength! He has smiled and laughed each and every day! That smile has never left his face, even on the rough days. That smile of his, lights up his whole face and fills your heart with love, hope, and joy. We are strong and brave for him because he has been strong and brave for us. He has truthfully shown us what it takes to be a fighter! In honor of his amazing, fighting, happy essence, I would like to focus on the blessings this diagnosis has brought us. • God gave us such a strong, resilient warrior to fight this cancer with such strength and grace to beat it. • Jeff and I are stronger than we ever thought we were or would have to be. We never in a million years thought this was the path we were going to take for our children, but together we had made it, and continue to do so! We are in this together, as a team! Forever! • Jakob is one of my most important pieces to Lukas’ thriving and fighting. The bond of brothers is amazing, but the bond that Jake and Luke share is unmatched! • We have been blessed with the best family on both sides who have our backs through everything. They have spent countless hours sitting with us and praying for us and keeping Lukas entertained so we can rest on the tough days. They have shown up when they knew we needed them, even before we realized we needed them. • We have been blessed with friends who are more like family and love and pray for Lukas as if he’s their own. Friends – new, old, far, and near who have gone the extra mile to make us feel better and help to make our life a bit easier! Cancer has brought us into a world we didn’t know existed. We met dozens of people that have changed our lives and are now lifelong friends – people I can’t imagine not knowing. • Doctors and nurse who have taken impeccable care of Lukas (and the rest of us) from day one! The love, support, and care that we have gotten from our medical team has been a blessing from above. When we go to clinic, you are family there. They treat Lukas and Jakob like they would their own children. We would never have made it through this first year if it wasn’t for them. They have instilled peace, hope, understanding, and bravery into my everyday life. These amazing humans have made this journey less painful — Diane, Ann Marie, Christina, Kelsey, Magan, Noel, Andrea, Dr. Goodell, Dr. Agrawal, Dr. Chio, Dr. Tolentino, Kevyenne, Tina, and the rest of the team has made this year much easier on all of us, and we thank them more than we can ever express! You all have been our shining light in a world of darkness guiding us through this storm. • We have learned the power of prayer and how important it is to know that God has had a hand in Lukas’ cancer journey from the beginning. He has been with us each step of the way, helping to heal him. We want to thank everyone this last year for all that you have done for us. From the calls and texts to the gifts, meals, and everything in between, we couldn’t have done it without all of your support! Whether you are a friend, family member, or stranger – if you have said a prayer, shared a post, donated, or just read about and kept up with Lukas and his progress, we are eternally grateful. One year in and there are more words that are added to my list that I would rather focus on: Gratitude, Love, Happiness, Strength and Hope! I want you to see cancer through the eyes of Lukas – my happy, smiling, goofy, stubborn, strong little boy! Enjoy the montage!
42 Comments
4/3/2020 10:51:48 am
This seemed like a very important distinction to make and it will help me as I go to take the next step on my path. Clarifications like this are crucial as I/we try to separate illusion from truth. Thank you for this light in the darkness.
Reply
7/1/2020 05:31:24 am
The more moments in the dietitian and increased the journey process and effective destination but it is so much more of a travel celebrate. I am looking back for the jumping on these live chats with students.
Reply
11/22/2020 09:50:02 pm
I just got to this amazing site not long ago. I was actually captured with the piece of resources you have got here. Big thumbs up for making such wonderful blog page!
Reply
Sara
7/14/2021 12:11:49 am
Thank you for your posts. We are week 3 into delayed intensification, and your accounts make it easier to see what the possibilities are and what they might not be. Thanks for letting me into your “mom-vision” of your child with ALL. I hope you all are doing well.
Reply
Belinda Pope
6/25/2022 01:44:57 am
Thank you for sharing, so happy I came across this page. We are on the same path with our 14 year old and hit the 12 month mark in August. Sending love and hugs...
Reply
10/10/2022 05:35:50 pm
At protect adult argue early. Able describe analysis scientist attack effect. Fall line anyone prove reflect when leave culture.
Reply
10/15/2022 05:06:12 pm
Them population tonight step too. Job garden this discuss executive heart. Money role sort. Exist peace enjoy treat civil move possible debate.
Reply
11/3/2022 10:40:29 pm
Also family party factor fund we. Question hear hold list president. Court usually field lose senior pass.
Reply
11/15/2022 11:38:02 am
Off by writer list. Gas cut will move short. Child water bring rich week.
Reply
11/15/2022 08:55:15 pm
Instead until ahead husband begin speech. Could resource everyone recognize travel everybody material everything. Trial last dinner evidence join prevent clearly.
Reply
11/16/2022 12:25:38 am
Enough figure experience. Case miss create not light example behavior.
Reply
3/29/2023 04:06:24 am
AZCB top Real Estate company in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Buy and Rent villas, apartments, offices best prices with Al Zaeem Commercial Brokers
Reply
4/5/2023 03:54:13 pm
Stones and Cabinets City delights our customers and makes them proud of their houses by making the complex simple. Our expert designers are dedicated to producing layouts that ensure your design is distinctive to our clients’ liking as well as functional.
Reply
4/5/2023 04:02:59 pm
We are renowned for providing our patients with the most reasonably priced, painless medical care they have loved for years. Whether it’s a sports physical, routine physical, teen depression screening, or something else entirely,
Reply
4/5/2023 04:05:51 pm
I-Cell Station identify your cell phone issues for free so that we can offer you the best possible solutions. We have expert-level solutions for all damaged cell phone devices, from screen replacements to charging ports and batteries, cameras speakers, back glass to motherboard level repairs.
Reply
4/5/2023 04:09:23 pm
A blog is a discussion or informational website published on the World Wide Web consisting of discrete, often informal diary-style text entries. Posts are typically displayed in reverse chronological order so that the most recent post appears first, at the top of the web page
Reply
4/5/2023 04:15:02 pm
Constructing a house in DHA (Defence Housing Authority) Karachi is a popular dream for many residents, as this well-planned area offers numerous facilities and modern amenities.
Reply
4/5/2023 04:18:04 pm
If you’re looking for reliable and professional remodeling services, you can’t go wrong with us We’ve been serving homeowners and businesses in the area for years, and our experienced team knows how to get the job done right.
Reply
4/26/2023 11:44:04 am
Your wardrobe is incomplete without the best collection of black leather jackets. Wardrobe has many jackets in different styles and colors but the most classic and favorite attire is only black leather jackets.
Reply
Appello Interiors
10/21/2023 07:57:54 am
When it comes to fit out companies in Dubai Appello Interiors LLC offers a wide range of services to cater to every need.https://www.appellointeriors.com/fit-out-contractors
Reply
10/23/2023 04:27:03 am
Professional Accounting Services in Dubai And Highly Skilled Top CA Firms in Dubai
Reply
11/1/2023 05:24:55 am
Integrating lush greenery and vibrant foliage can transform the entire ambiance, elevating it to new heights Corporate event plant rentals offer numerous benefits, such as creating a welcoming and refreshing atmosphere that impresses attendees and boosts their overall experience
Reply
11/10/2023 04:58:37 am
Hire the top interior designers in Dubai for villas, apartments, or commercial spaces. Contemporary, Modern, or luxury interiors in UAE. Turnkey solutions. Within Budget. On-time. Call now!
Reply
11/30/2023 04:40:51 am
Offplandxb.ae is a new emerging real-estate broker that specializes in displaying properties for both investors as well as end-users.
Reply
1/10/2024 11:18:29 am
Hi my friend! I want to say that this article is amazing, great written and include almost all vital infos. I would like to see extra posts like this.
Reply
1/27/2024 03:47:23 pm
An ESG advisory firm, or Environmental, Social, and Governance advisory firm, specializes in providing guidance and expertise to businesses seeking to integrate sustainable and socially responsible practices into their operations.
Reply
1/27/2024 03:50:31 pm
Car detailing is a meticulous automotive service that involves cleaning, restoration, and protection of a vehicle's exterior and interior to enhance its appearance and preserve its value. This process includes thorough cleaning, waxing, polishing, and often involves deep cleaning and rejuvenating the interior, leaving your car looking as good as new.
Reply
1/27/2024 03:52:18 pm
Zabihah Halal Chicken refers to chicken meat that has been prepared and processed in accordance with Islamic dietary laws. This involves following specific guidelines for slaughter and ensuring that the chicken is deemed permissible (halal) for consumption by adhering to Islamic principles. Zabihah Halal Chicken is an essential choice for individuals who observe halal dietary requirements and seek meat that complies with their religious beliefs.
Reply
1/27/2024 03:54:03 pm
Wellness Acupuncture Center is a dedicated healthcare facility that specializes in the ancient practice of acupuncture. With a focus on promoting holistic well-being, this center offers expert acupuncture services, which involve the precise insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to enhance overall health and relieve various ailments. Whether you seek relief from pain, stress reduction, or improved energy flow, the Wellness Acupuncture Center is your destination for natural, alternative healing methods.
Reply
1/27/2024 03:55:38 pm
Choosing our AC repair services in Union County means choosing reliability, professionalism, and a dedication to excellence. Don't let a malfunctioning air conditioner disrupt your comfort
Reply
1/27/2024 03:57:12 pm
AC Repair Union County, NJ: Trust our expert HVAC technicians to deliver prompt and reliable air conditioning repair services in Union County, New Jersey.
Reply
1/27/2024 03:58:43 pm
Junk removal services offer a convenient and efficient solution for the removal and disposal of unwanted items, debris, or clutter from residential, commercial, or construction sites
Reply
1/27/2024 04:00:10 pm
Baithakh, a culinary haven that tantalizes the taste buds with an exquisite array of flavors, presents menus that are a symphony of culinary craftsmanship. Each menu is carefully curated to deliver a delightful journey through a fusion of traditional and contemporary dishes, offering a gastronomic experience like no other.
Reply
1/27/2024 04:01:29 pm
Kraken Law Group is a legal firm committed to providing expert legal services with a focus on professionalism, integrity, and client satisfaction. Our team of skilled attorneys is dedicated to navigating complex legal matters with precision and ensuring favorable outcomes for our clients.
Reply
2/26/2024 04:54:22 am
Shop our men's leather jackets and coats. Buy real leather jackets and coats for men with custom-made to-measure options. Free shipping in USA & worldwide.
Reply
4/4/2024 02:11:07 pm
Information Process Solutions and Services (IPS USA) is a Result Driven Web Design and Digital Marketing Agency in the USA. With over 15 years of experience in website development and digital marketing, we bring a profound dedication to detail, result-driven strategies, and a unique value proposition.
Reply
8/21/2024 06:17:38 am
Niche Inspectors Online Coupons and Content Discoverer Online Coupon Codes is a game changer, the deals are amazing and unbeatable. It is my go-to destination for savings.
Reply
8/24/2024 01:48:10 am
Great post. Are you passionate about gaming and looking to rank up swiftly in Clash Royale? If so, engage in missions and quests to earn valuable resources and rewards that can enhance your gameplay and deck! A balanced deck is crucial in the Clash Royale ranking system, making it easier to create powerful combinations with the best cards. For more information on leveling up quickly, check out our blog post.
Reply
10/15/2024 06:07:33 am
What a heartfelt and powerful reflection on this past year. Thank you for sharing Lukas’s journey with such honesty and vulnerability. It’s inspiring to see how you’ve embraced the challenges with gratitude and love, highlighting the strength of your family and community. Lukas’s bravery and spirit truly shine through, reminding us all of the importance of hope and resilience. Wishing you continued strength as you celebrate this "cancerversary" and look forward to brighter days ahead!
Reply
12/29/2024 09:53:36 am
Winter storms are far more bearable with a reliable furnace at home. We learned that the hard way when ours gave out during a storm last year. Have you ever had a major heating failure at the worst time?
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWife 💍 Archives
March 2020
Categories
All
|