15 Down -- 1 To Go

Tuesday, December 27, 2016
Today I was accompanied to chemo by my dear friend Kristen, who is also my boss at work. I could not possibly count the tears that we have cried together as I have shared by journey with this most empathetic and Christlike woman. She has gone the extra mile and beyond to insure that my needs are met at work and accommodations have been made for my health and welfare. I can never thank her and our team enough for their compassion, prayers, and assistance. They have eased my burdens in unspeakable ways. How can I ever repay you?
I love having all of you on my side fighting as champion warriors with the purest motives and charity. Together we can conquer so much more than cancer. Love is a most powerful tool. Nowotwor! -- Elizabeth

Merry Christmas!

Sunday, December 25, 2016, Christmas Day
This year was a little unusual for us--Mark and I were all alone on Christmas morning. Erin has her own family now with Seth and is establishing their own traditions and our sweet Morgan is a full-time missionary.
So, instead of our daughters, it was I who came down the stairs to a precious Christmas surprise. Mark had a made a handmade sign that says it all: "Remission Accomplished!!"
Thank you, Mark, for this comforting reminder that prayers have been heard and answered and given in time to celebrate it at this beautiful season of giving and love. I could not have made this journey without you by my side giving me support and encouragement all along the way. You are a fellow warrior!
Praise be to God and His beloved son as we celebrate the birth of Christ today. Thank you for healing me! I will be forever grateful! I will keep fighting the good fight! -- Elizabeth

14 Down -- 2 To Go

Tuesday, December 20, 2016
Today, Shelley, my dear friend of 21 years was my companion during chemotherapy. We both have such busy lives that it was nice to have some dedicated time to catch up on our lives. Sorry that I fell asleep during my treatment, but noticed that you almost finished your book. :) Thank you for your service to me today and your friendship over the years. You are the best! I count you one of my fellow warriors as I have seen you beautifully fight through your own battles. Love you friend! Nowotwor --Elizabeth

12/13/16 - One of My Favorite Days

Tuesday, December 13, 2016

This day will go down in my life as definitely one of my favorites. I will just start at the beginning. 

1.  I woke up at 4:30 a.m. and couldn't go back to sleep. (Thank you, steroids.) So I got up and finished reading the Book of Mormon. Again, I know that this book is the word of God and it brings me joy to live by its teachings.

2.  At 8:45 a.m. Mark and I met with my oncologist who informed us that my cancer is in remission!!! What a wonderful Christmas present! I didn't expect to find out this information just yet, but I am so grateful. I still have to complete all my chemotherapy treatments and 5-10 years of hormone blocker, but I have added strength and courage now to get through everything.

3.  I then had my 13th chemo on December 13th. :) Morgan and Mark accompanied me. Morgan would not leave my side. I am so grateful for their immense support.

4.  After chemo and lunch, we went home and loaded our truck with Morgan's luggage and bicycle in preparation for dropping her off at the mission home in Orem, Utah. We then drove to Erin's work to surprise her with one last chance to say goodbye to Morgan. It was the sweetest experience for me as their mother to watch them run into each other's arms and hug and cry. I'm so glad they love each other. It was a little piece of heaven.

5.  We stopped by Grandma's house so she could say goodbye to Morgan. That too was a sweet experience.

6.  Then we drove to the Utah Orem Mission to drop Sister Pierce off. We were greeted at the door by the mission president's wife who so warmly invited us in. She kindly gave us a tour of their home and showed us where Sister Pierce would be sleeping. Ironically, the quilt on the bed was of  stars and planets. So appropriate since Sister Pierce spent so much time looking at the heavens with her father, an amateur astronomer. We then met the mission president who was so kind. We spent about 30 minutes visiting with him and his wife. I wish every parent could meet their child's mission president and see him interact with their child. He was so full of love and kindness. It really wasn't hard to leave Sister Pierce when she looked so happy. Her smile was huge and she looked so comfortable there. We left her with full confidence in her ability to be an instrument in the Lord's hands to share the gospel of Jesus Christ. No doubt, I will miss her and all her secret acts of kindness during my cancer treatments. God bless you, Sister Pierce!

7.  We then drove to a funeral home to attend the viewing of a dear friend's mother. Dawn, please know that my prayers are with you and your family. I was reminded of how precious every day is with our loved ones. And so grateful for eternal families. God bless you, Dawn!

8.  As if our day was incomplete, we then had an amazing dinner with some of the dearest friends whom we met years ago in a most unique way. About 21 years ago, we started opening our home to young women who were pregnant out of wedlock. Over the years we have had 8 different young women who have touched our lives forever. Well, one of them, Jen, graduated from nursing school today. We were unable to make it to the graduation, but met them for dinner. Not only did we see Jen, but we met the daughter she placed for adoption 17 years ago. I had held that sweet baby several times and even had the sacred experience of placing her in her adoptive mother's arms. So, it was really amazing to meet her as a young adult. She is gorgeous! The adoptive parents were also there which was wonderful. Jen's sister and her parents were there too. What an amazing, beautiful thing to see all these people come together because of Jen and her one sweet baby whom everyone loved. God bless you, Jen! 

9.  Now the icing on the cake -- today is our wedding anniverary!!! Mark, I love you so much! I am so glad that we got to share this amazingly perfect day with each other. I wouldn't have wanted to spend it with anyone else. Thank you for loving me all these years and especially for your love and support during my battle with cancer. You are my greatest warrior! God bless you, Mark!

10. Nowotwor - the battle continues but we are winning! -- Elizabeth

My Visit with Santa

Saturday, December 17, 2016

I wish I had a picture of my encounter with Santa, but unfortunately it wasn't caught on camera.

Anyway, I walked into Smith's grocery store and was offered a cookie and juice. I can't really eat sugar right now, so I graciously declined. Then Santa's helper said, "Santa's over there." All of a sudden, I was a 6-year-old child again and the magic of Santa rushed over me. Luckily, there were no other children that I had to plow over to get to the jolly guy.

I stood there in front of him, looking into his kind and gentle eyes. With my hand on his arm, I simply said, "Thank you! Thank you for the early Christmas gift." Without a word, he quizzically looked at me and I replied "My doctor told me this week that my cancer is in remission. Thank you!"

He never said a word, and I couldn't see a smile behind his beard, but as I turned around to leave, I saw a tear glisten in his eye. Merry Christmas, Santa!

Now, I know that Santa didn't give me the gift of remission but it was a sweet little exchange today. I hope it made him happy.

I am very aware that this amazing gift of remission is from my Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ. I owe all blessings to Them. It is only through Them that I have been able to endure this trial. The power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ has taken on a whole new meaning for me as I have learned how it applies not only to sin, but to our "pains and afflictions" (Alma 7:11). I am eternally grateful.

I still have to finish three more chemo treatments and 5-10 years of hormone therapy, but at this moment I have received the best Christmas present ever. Thank you for being on this journey with me. We are winning the fight!-- Elizabeth

Mystery Balloons

  Thank you to the mystery balloon giver! You have brightened my day so many times during my cancer journey.
In the early stages of my treatment, every morning as I would leave my house on treatment day, there was a balloon attached to my mailbox. I would jump out of the car and take a picture. It make me smile and brought me hope.
  I don't know who you are, and obviously you wish to remain anonymous, which I totally respect. This move on your part allows me to do a couple of things. 1) It encourages me to be kind to EVERYONE because I might just be talking to the balloon giver and I would only want to be exceptionally nice to them. 2) It allows me to let God bless you for your kindness and His blessings will far outweigh any gratitude I could every extend to you. And I do indeed pray that God will bless you.
  I recognize that there was sacrifice on your part to buy the balloons, and place them on my mailbox so early in the morning before I left for work. God bless you! It truly made a difference in my life. I repeat the sentiment from the balloons to you as well "You're So Special!" Thank you again for arming me with hope during my battle.
Nowotwor - Elizabeth

11 Down - 5 To Go

My friend Deb and me at 11th treatment

November 29, 2016
  Thanks to everyone who reminds me that I have not posted in awhile. :)
  The week before Thanksgiving I was battling a sinus infection and doing everything possible to avoid going to the hospital - the last place you want to be when your immune system in compromised. Fortunately, the antibiotics worked perfectly and I am feeling much better. My white blood cell count was 15 today. (The high normal is 10.)
  Let me mention briefly how wonderful Thanksgiving was. Erin and Seth joined Mark, Morgan, and me for a wonderful homemade Thanksgiving dinner at our home. The family said it was delicious, but I only tasted cardboard. I had cardboard tasting turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes covered in cardboard gravy. Followed later by Mark's famous homemade cardboard pumpkin pie. I will only say that when things taste like cardboard you don't go back for seconds. :) The beauty is that by Sunday, my taste returned and I had a wonderful meal of leftovers and they were indeed delicious, especially with a fine dose of gratitude for the ability to taste. I think I have always taken that sense for granted.
  Now to my 11th treatment-- my friend Deb brought me to chemo today. There was a backup of patients so we waited 4 hours before they started my 2 hour treatment. The nurses were amazingly patient with all of us patients. (See what I did there? haha) I really appreciated Deb's companionship in that she was the caregiver for her roommate and my dear friend, Emma, for several years until Emma went to live with God after a valiant battle with cancer. We both miss Emma, but I am astounded by Deb's resilience and faith and her Christlike ability to reach out to me with love and service. She is truly one who has walked the difficult road of caregiver and yet stays on that road and helps the next person along the path. Deb, you are in inspirational example to me and I know that God is preparing a beautiful mansion for you in heaven. Thanks for being my friend!
  I would also like to point out the beautiful scarf I am wearing. It was handmade by a former BYU roommate of mine, Marsha. She lives in Tennessee and we have one of those magical friendships that no matter how long it has been since we have talked or seen each other, we can pick right up where we left off and never miss a beat. Neither of us gets offended if we have not talked in awhile and I appreciate that because I am a terrible correspondent. Anyway, Marsha sends me a package every week with the most thoughtful gifts. They are simple, but thoughtful. I appreciate knowing that she loves me, prays for me, and is thinking of me. After she saw my wig, she chose this beautiful, soft yard to make me a scarf to go along with my wig. Beautiful choice, don't you think? It is especially warm on my neck now that I don't have my big blanket of natural hair to cover to my neck. I never knew how much your hair keeps in your body heat. Hats off, or should I say, hats on, to every man or woman who is bald. Winter's here and it is cold. BRRRR!
  Deepest gratitude to all of you who love me and pray for me. May God bless you in your own personal trials. We are all in this together. Keep up the good fight. Nowotwor!! - Elizabeth

Meet Izak - My New Little Hero

November 15, 2016
Meet Izak! He is such an inspiration to me -- my new little hero! While I was having chemotherapy, this cute little guy came bouncing into the room. His mother is one of my nurses and they had just stopped by for a moment. Izak had just had his 6 month follow-up appointment about his cancer. He has a rare form of cancer too long and complicated for me to even spell or speak. The tumor had settled in his ankle when he was six years old. It was treated with chemo, but it unfortunately came back a second time, treated with radiation. He is now 8 years old and has been through more than a child should ever have to endure. Unfortunately, the follow-up he had today will turn out to be a third battle for him. Izak, I am so sorry! You are a strong young man. You inspire me! I love you, dude! Thank you for answering my questions about losing your hair and how it grew back the same color - curly at first and then back to normal. Thank you for your wisdom when I asked you for advice. You said, "Sleep alot. I did and it really helped me."
Izak, you are a warrior! Fight the good fight, buddy! Nowotwor! - Elizabeth

8 Down - 8 To Go

Tuesday, November 8, 2016
Interestingly on the 8th, I finished my 8th treatment and have 8 more to go. 8 must be lucky number today!
I have reached the half-way point and it feels great. Overall I feel really good. I am so blessed. My white blood cells crashed last week so I have to get Neupogen shots twice a week for the remainder of my treatments, but that's okay. It will be a great blessing to my immune system during the cold and flu season.
I want to express deepest gratitude to Erin for taking me to my chemo treatment today. I know that was hard for you but it meant so much to me. It must be very difficult to watch your mom go through cancer, but honestly, I am so glad it is me and not you. I truly don't know how mothers watch their children endure such a trial. Any mother would take it from their child in a heartbeat. So, I really am glad it's me. Erin, I am fighting a good fight for my family. We are winning!

My Wig

Sunday, October 23, 2016
I can't believe that I actually broke down and got a wig! I wasn't planning on it, but I must say it is nice for those lazy days when I can't decide what hat/scarf will match my outfit.
A couple of weeks ago, I met Megan who works for the American Cancer Society and she offered me a wig. Did you know that ACS gives one free wig to every cancer patient that wants one? I think that is really awesome! Megan was so kind to sit with me among hundreds of wigs and literally let me try on whatever I wanted. I finally settled on straight hair, because I have never had straight hair and this is my chance to find out what it's like (unless it decides to grow back in straight--we shall see). And I love this color. So I took the offer of a free wig and that's my story.
Thanks Megan and the American Cancer Society!
Elizabeth

5 Down - 11 To Go

Tuesday, October 18, 2016
Today, I had my first Taxol treatment. I have to take high doses of steroids to help with treatment and they also give me benedryl which luckily puts me to sleep. I like the concept of sleeping through treatment. :)
Taxol takes half the time for treatment than "red devil." That's a nice blessing too.
You will see that my hands and feet are on ice packs. This constricts the blood vessels so that the chemo doesn't get to my extremities. Taxol causes neuropathy. However, if the chemo can't get there, it can't do damage. It is cold, for sure, but I am willing to be cold in order to not have neuropathy for a lifetime.
Thank you to everyone for your faith and prayers. God is blessing me so much!
Still fighting the good fight!
Elizabeth

4 Down - 12 To Go

Tuesday, September 27, 2016
Today I had my fourth chemotherapy treatment and it is the last one of the nasty chemo, A/C, that is nicknamed "Red Devil" or "Red Death." It is rightfully named.
In three weeks I will start a new chemo treatment called Taxol. It is allegedly less taxing on your body. I am ready for something a little less crazy than A/C.
Thank you to all the medical professionals who have made my treatments tolerable. I have tried to be a good patient. :)
Nowotwor -- Elizabeth

Morgan Receives Mission Call

Morgan received her mission call to serve the Lord as a full-time missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints!! She will serve in the Utah Orem Mission for 3 months. Due to her diagnosis of high functioning autism, she was chosen to participate in what is called a 2-transfer mission. After the 3 months, her mission president will evaluate her progress and will recommend her further service or recommend that she be honorably released. We are absolutely thrilled for her. She is excited and ready to serve. We will take her straight to the mission home on December 13.

Morgan, you are the best prepared missionary I have ever known or heard of. You will bless so many lives, including your own!

Love, Mom

Erin marries Seth

On Friday, September 23, 2016, our oldest daughter Erin married her best friend Seth in an LDS Temple.
The next day, we had a really fun reception.
These two special days have been an amazing gift to any mother.
Erin, I am so blessed to be your mother. Thank you for being the answer to my prayers when I couldn't bear children, and your birth mother chose us to be your parents. You have changed my life for the good!
Seth, welcome to our family!
May God bless your union forever!
Love,
Mom

The Most Amazing Birthday Present

September 11, 2016
Before I begin my blog post, I would like to pause to remember those who lost their lives in the 9/11 attack on America. My prayers go out to everyone who lost loved ones on that tragic day. I used to work on Broadway and Wall Street in New York City and my office window overlooked the World Trade Centers. I had lunch on the plaza often. My brain still cannot fathom the loss of all those lives.
. . . .

My birthday was a few weeks ago and I owe a huge apology to my sister. She gave me the most amazing birthday gift and I just discovered it today. She lives in Arizona and has one of the most loving natures of anyone I know. Please read her email to me and you will understand. Malena, thank you a million times over for reaching out to others who are struggling. I know you have your own health issues and should have kept the entire bouquet of roses for yourself, but then again, that's not who you are. Thank you for sharing my birthday with those you love.

The Roses

The Note with the Roses

The following is an email from my sister describing her most amazing birthday gift to me. Thanks again, Malena! I love you!




Elizabeth,

I think too many times people are taken from us too soon and we do things in honor of their life, but it is after they lived.  I wanted to honor you because you live, just for today!

You have one of the most amazing Birthday celebrations here in Maricopa, Arizona!  This morning, I wanted so deeply to do something extra special for you for your birthday, so I decided that when I got off from work today at 6:30, I was going to go buy a dozen roses and deliver them in your honor for your Birthday.

I was called as I was heading into work that I didn't need to come in today, so I took the 4 hours I would have been at work to go and do this amazing Birthday gift for you!  Here is what me and my family got to enjoy!  By the way doing this was way more fun than going to work. :-)

Rose 1 -- Delivered to an Elderly friend who just buried her sweetheart a week ago.  Put the rose in her walker seat that was open as she sat in the bank in Fry's dealing with banking situation.  I visited with her as we walked in, so I didn't want to interrupt, but wanted her to know she was loved!

Rose 2 -- Delivered to a gentleman who brings in the carts at Fry's and is the sunshine in the store!  He wishes you well!

Rose 3 -- Delivered to an amazing lady who had the privilege to live in Germany when the Berlin Wall fell, she was able to help tear it down.    She was having a difficult day, because she was just diagnosed with COPD.  We had a wonderful visit.  She just joined our team in Life Leadership.  We hugged and cried and shared love and hope with one another.  She sent me across town to her sister.

Rose 4 -- Delivered to a dear friend who battles depression and recently attempted suicide.  I left the rose with her brother, because she and her husband were on a date!  He recommended I take to the lady who had watched a lot of children today.

Rose 5 -- Delivered to the sister from Rose 3.  She was expecting her mother-in-law any minute and had been cleaning on her home all day and was so tired and a bit stressed.  She was so deeply surprised and we hugged and she felt loved!  She didn't know anyone in town, so we told her we would come up with someone for the next rose.

Rose 6 -- Delivered to a family who's son was killed in a car accident a year ago and today would have been his 18th birthday.  We left the note on the door and the rose on the door step.

Rose 7 -- Delivered to a dear friend who we just love to pieces!  She has been having a tough time.  She wasn't home, so we left the note on her door and rose on her doorstep as well.

Rose 8 -- My daughter and I both felt prompted to go to this lady's home.  She has a disorder that causes stress induced seizures.  We sat down and visited with her.  We gave her a hug and she recommended we go to her dear friend, who was having a really hard time.

Rose 9 -- We took to the friend of Rose 8 and she shared that they just learned that her 2 year old has an IgG deficiency and they are checking him for Cystic Fibrosis.  She recommended us to an amazing mother who is her neighbor and friend.

Rose 10 -- We took to a dear friend of ours and Rose #9 recommended us to take love to.  Their 16 year old has Lymes Disease and is extremely ill.  He has been for 18 months.  They started his very expensive treatments today.  She has a son with Cerebral Palsy as well.  She sings with the voice of an angel!  We did a recording together.  Her husband recommended we go to a family who their 10 year old daughter was just diagnosed with Leukemia 2 days ago.

Rose 11 -- This family just had their 10 year old daughter diagnosed with Leukemia.  We left the note on their door and the rose in their screen door.

Rose 12 --  We delivered this final rose to the husband of the lady who was referred by Rose # 4.  This dear woman, just recently had to have a hysterectomy and deals with Bi-Polar disorder.  She is an amazing talented woman!

As I visited with each one who was home, it was a precious moment for me and my family and the families that I visited.  Thank you for being born today, decades ago. :-)  

Each note read, You are Loved! ewpierce.blogspot.com -- written on a post it note.

You today, my dear sister was honored and your amazing journey with cancer was shared and you have been able to touch the lives of 12 families in Maricopa, Arizona today, because you were born.  YOU ARE LOVED!

All my love,

 

Malena Shaw

3 Down - 13 to go

Tuesday, September 6, 2016
Well, here we are again. My white blood cell count dropped dangerously low last Friday, so I have been getting Neupogen shots since then to build those cells. The shots create a lot of bone pain so I spent my Labor Day weekend managing pain. But it paid off today when my WBC count was 39!! It only needed to be between 4 and 10.
You might notice that I wear the same dress every time I have chemo. It was a gift from my sister and it works perfectly for access to my port a cath. Thanks, Malena!
And thanks to everyone for your faith and prayers. I have needed them as I have been a bit discouraged while managing the pain. My doctor reminded me that I am fighting for my life. And then I remembered "I am a warrior!" Nowotwor -- Elizabeth

2 Down - 14 To Go

Round 2

Tuesday, August 16, 2016

I have been under a lot of stress lately, so I went into today's chemotherapy not being at the top of my game. I appreciate those who have cried with me recently. When people ask what they can do, most of the time I really don't know. But I am learning that to have someone to cry with is very therapeutic.

Anyway, there was some concern about my white blood cell count today. I have my blood tested every week, and it has been going down. So they needed to draw blood from my port. However . . . the blood wouldn't come. The nurse, Danielle, had me turn my head, shift around, cough, sit forward, etc. and nothing was working. But in my heart I was praying my guts out. "Please, Heavenly Father, please let the blood come through the port. Please!" All of a sudden, the blood started to flow. Danielle said, "Whatever you are doing, keep doing it." I looked at her and humbly said, "I am praying." And yes, I will keep doing it. I know God heard and answered that simple prayer. The results came back really great. They want my numbers to be between 4 and 10. I had gotten down to 3.3, but today it was 6.1 - in only 4 days. A miracle indeed!

I made a new friend in the chemo room. Her name is Nicci. She also has breast cancer. We became fast friends. She is much younger than I am and it broke my heart. Her story makes me grateful for my own. Thank you, God, for not giving me more than I can handle without at least giving me a way to survive it. For that I am eternally grateful.

Nowotwor -- Elizabeth

P.S. I took a walk around the block tonight and got bitten by a mosquito. Funny thought, but how do you think a mosquito reacts to chemo blood? I don't really know, but I have a feeling it didn't live long. I was hoping it would smell the poison and simply not bite me, but it took a chance.

Five Day Hair Loss Program

Saturday, August 13, 2016
I was told that Day 14 after my first chemotherapy treatment would bring hair loss. For some reason, I thought I might be exempt. NOT!!
I woke up Tuesday and checked the towel I had spread on my pillow to catch all my hair, but it just had a few hairs. I thought I had dodged a bullet.
Then I washed my hair and that is when all things changed. I couldn't tell what was hitting my arms in the shower. Was it the water? Was it hair? Or was it my tears? Actually, it was all of them. When I finally had the courage to open my eyes, my arms were covered with short hairs all the way up to my elbows. I didn't have the emotional strength to clean the drain, so my amazing husband did. He is an angel. I am doing fine now, but wow, this has been a difficult journey!
Thank you for your prayers!
Nowotwor -- Elizabeth
P.S. I do not recommend this hair loss program!  It works, but it stinks!

Monday, Day 13

Monday, Day 13

Friday, Day 17

Saturday, Day 18

I Do Believe

Last Wednesday, August 10, 2016, I arrived home from work to find this on my doorstep:

Dear Cooper,
I do believe that God can bless me. Thank you for your prayers. I pray for you too.
I am happy to have known you almost all of your life. We truly are old friends!
Love,
Sister Pierce

P.S. Cooper is one of my wonderful Primary children. He is 9 years old.

Why is Great Clips great?

  I woke up Saturday, August 6, with lose hair on my pillow. This was a bit disconcerting to say the least. I knew it was coming, but there is something surreal about when it actually does.
   I have several friends and neighbors who cut hair and have offered to shave my head, but I decided to go to someone to whom I am not emotionally attached. I called Great Clips to see if they take "walk-ins" and found out that is all they take. :) Remember that I grow my hair for Locks of Love and don't use hair cutting services very often. When I called, I spoke to a stylist, Mykael, who patiently listened as I sobbed through my explanation of needing my head shaved. She told me to take my time and come when I felt comfortable.
  So, I had a gut-wrenching cry, looked myself in the eyes and said "Be Strong! You can do this!" and prayed for Heavenly Father to not leave me during this difficult step. Then I pulled myself up by the bootstraps and drove to Great Clips. (My family was all at work or I'm sure they would have gone with me.)

Deep Breath -- Open the Door

     So, in I went and put my name on the waiting list. I didn't realize that you could sign-in online and save some time. So, I was number 13 on the list. That happens to be my "lucky" number. Haha! I sat by a man and soon struck up a conversation. You know me--I've never met a stranger. We had a fascinating conversation. It was not coincidence that I met a man who works in cancer/blood research. What a blessing!
  Anyway, Mykael finally called me back and we decided on a 1/2 inch guard for the clippers. She started at the back which allowed me to get used to the falling hair. As she got close to the end, I asked her to pause so I could take a picture . . .

Trying to be a Brave Little Toaster

and then, I cried. You can tell in the picture that I am trying to be brave. Mykael gave me the time I needed and tried not to cry with me. Then we continued. 

It's okay. It's only hair. It will grow back.

   So, why is Great Clips great?
     1. Because of Mykael who was sympathetic, kind, and professional, and
     2. Because they do not charge a dime to shave heads of cancer patients. That is noble and right.

Thank you, Mykael! You are my angel.

Still at war (and winning!) -- Elizabeth

What Are You Doing in the Next Two Months?

Thursday, August 4, 2016

What are you doing in the next two months? Simple question for most people probably. Let's see, your children will return to school? Perhaps you will begin your first semester of college? How about a wonderful Labor Day weekend with family? Well, let me tell you what I'm doing:

Our oldest daughter, Erin, announced this week that she is engaged to Seth. She and her fiance have chosen the date of September 23, 2016.

Our youngest daughter, Morgan, (we only have two children) will complete her papers to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and will receive her assignment to serve somewhere in the world.

I will complete my 4 rounds of crazy chemotherapy (Adriamycin and Cyclophosphamide) and get ready to begin my new cocktail (Taxol) to be given weekly for 12 weeks.

My husband will either lose his mind or find a part-time job to pay for all his "girl's" shenanigans which individually are in the thousands of dollars, let alone the collective cost. Whew!

We are trying to enjoy every moment and taking it all in stride knowing that the Lord knows us and loves us.

So, what are you doing in the next two months? Can we offer any assistance? :) Just kidding! We probably won't have time. :)  With love, Elizabeth

At the End of a Long Day

Thursday, August 8, 2016
I have been going to work every day (except one) since we need my insurance (plus it gets me out of the house and allows me to think of something and someone else). Today, after being gone for 11 1/2 hours, I came home to the sweetest note, so full of love. It reads, "A nice full clean cup of water just for you mom. Love, Morgy"

Morgan, you will never know what this meant to me. I even cried. :) You are one of my rewards for being a Mom. Thanks for being on my team as we are at war against my cancer together. I love you! -- Mom

P.S. I have to drink half my body weight in water daily. Anyone want to join me in the quest?! (It's not as hard as it sounds. :) )

"She believed she could, so she did!"

Wednesday, July 27, 2016
I have become dear friends with a woman whose 13-year-old daughter died of cancer just a few weeks ago. In her sorrow, she has reached out to me in selfless and caring ways. She sent me a package of some things that belonged to her daughter and one was a little sign, "She believed she could, so she did!" I hung it by my desk at work and see it every day. It seemed appropriate today as I returned to work for a full 8 hours. I believed I could, so I did!
Still at war -- the real kind with cancer chemotherapy. Today I won the battle. Tomorrow will be a new day. I will be ready.
Nowotwor -- Elizabeth

1 Down -- 15 To Go

Tuesday, July 26, 2016
This picture was taken before I actually started the chemotherapy treatment, but I was so ready to get things going AND I survived!! I admit that I was fearful of the unknown. How will my body react? Will it hurt? Will my port work properly? etc.
I had the most amazing nurse, Anabeth, who explained everything that she was doing and why. I really like that. She had me look at the needle before she accessed the port. I usually do not look as needles are being inserted in my body, but I was brave and it really didn't look bad, except that it is bent on the end -- on purpose.
Thanks to numbing cream, I did not feel anything when the port was accessed. She was able to get a blood return and that is a good thing. It means that they will be able to draw blood from my port to keep track of white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets, etc. It also means one less poke in the arm.
  The first infusion was a steroid, then anti-nausea medicine, and then after a saline flush, the highly anticipated Adriamycin, also known as "Red Devil" or "Red Death" due to the color and the effects on your body. Death obviously refers to killing the cancer cells and not me personally. :) I think it is one of the only chemo therapies that has color. It looks like cherry Koolaid. It took less than 15 minutes to infuse, so it is a potent little thing.

This is me getting the actual infusion. Piece of cake!

This is me pretending like it is not a piece of cake. :)

The pink mug in my hand is full of ice chips that I had to eat while it was infusing. This drug creates mouth sores, but by eating ice, the cold constricts the blood vessels and does not allow as much chemo to enter therefore cutting down on the amount of mouth sores. Brilliant, right?! Thank you to whomever thought that one up!

  After another saline flush, I received Cyclophosphamide which is a clear liquid. My brain told me that all the clear ones were just water so it was okay, and it was okay.

  Everything went picture perfect--no nausea, no adverse reaction, proper port function, etc. Honestly, I could not be more blessed. I know the coming days will bring a different story, but for today I have hope and health, and an amazing husband who was by my side the whole way today. Thank you, Mark! I love you!

  Thank you to everyone who has prayed for me and held me and my family in your hearts. I return the love and prayers knowing that each new day is a gift from God. Enjoy!

Nowotwor -- Elizabeth

A New Battle Begins

Monday, July 25, 2016
Well, my friends, in keeping with the "Now at War" theme, a new battle begins tomorrow -- My first chemotherapy treatment!!
I had my blood work done in preparation for the fight and the surgeon has cleared me saying that my incisions have healed really well. My oncologist has also given the green light and so here we go.
A dear friend of mine is also a children's psychologist and she told me about a "self-soothe" box. So I have prepared a chemo treatment/self-soothe bag that is filled with one item for each sense. I have ginger snaps for taste, a book to read for sight, a little blue hippo stuffed animal (from another dear friend) for touch, music (that Morgan helped me get on my phone) for sound, and English lavender (brought back from England last week from another dear friend) for smell.
The other thing I will take with me that I can only hold in my heart is the love, support, and prayers of all my beloved family and friends. Thank you for being on this journey with me. I admit that I am a bit scared, but I am ready. Another dear friend assisted Mark in giving me a priesthood blessing, so with God on my side, how can I fail?
Nowotwor, Elizabeth

"How's Your Heart?"

Have you every wondered if you have a good heart? Well, there is a test for that.
On Friday, July 15, 2016, I had an echocardiogram. This is standard for the type of chemo that I will be receiving which can damage my heart. So this test tells them a couple of things: if my heart is strong enough to receive chemotherapy and it also gives them a baseline to go from in the future if I start having heart problems.
My oncologist told me today that everything looks great and he agreed that I can tell my mom "I have a good heart!" Haha!
In actuality it takes a lot more than an echocardiogram to determine if you have a good heart. One very telling test is how we treat other people. My grandmother always said that you can tell a person's character by how they treat children and animals. My grandmother had a wonderful character and a good heart. I'm still working on mine.
I was really nervous to have the "echo" because the placement of my port-a-catheter is right where the technician needs to press in order to get good ultrasound images. I am so grateful to Brad (the tech) who did my echocardiogram with such skill avoiding the port and my incisions. My hat's off to every person who has chosen to work in the medical field. You all have good hearts!!  -- Elizabeth

Bad News -- Good News

Tuesday, July 19, 2016

Today I met with my oncologist and found out some important information.
My Oncatype DX test results came back and my score is 43 (range is 0-100). That means that my cancer is in the high risk of recurrence category, even with hormonal therapy. Anything over 30 is high risk. This is bad news. However, because it is in the high risk category the benefits of chemo will be greater that the side effects. This is good news. It makes the decision to continue with a chemotherapy plan that much easier. That being said, I will have my first chemo treatment next Tuesday, July 26 -- ready or not!
I have felt a little stuck waiting for this test result, so I am ready to move forward -- we are still at war!
Nowotwor! Elizabeth

Happy Hayden!

On Saturday, July 2, 2016, I attended the baptism of my little friend, Hayden, who became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She also received the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Hayden, I just want you to know of the joy that has come to me from being a member of the same Church. It's teachings of Jesus Christ are what get me through every day, especially as I apply His Atonement to my life currently. The gift of the Holy Ghost that you received will also be a great comfort to you throughout your life. I am so grateful for the blessings that come to us through the Godhead. Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost all love us very much! They are very aware of everything we go through and are ready to help us in every way they possibly can.

You are a precious daughter of God. You have always been so kind to me as your neighbor and friend. I pray that you will always feel God's love.

Love,

Sister Pierce

P.S. Thank you for sharing the beautiful flowers (and food) from your baptism.

Fight Song

Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Tonight I attended my hometown "American Idol" competition where my friend Boston performed "Fight Song" by Rachel Platten. Boston is one of my amazing Primary children. (I am the Primary president in my ward which means I get to associate with great children ages 18 months - 11 years.)

Boston was so kind to invite me and I was so happy to support him. He did a really great job and there was some tough competition. But he was the first place winner in his age group!!! I am so proud of you Boston! That took a lot of courage but you are a champion!

Boston's mother told me that he wanted to dedicate the song to me tonight. That means a lot to me. I am taking the words to heart. I will remember Boston singing the song every time I start feeling down about my cancer.

"This is my fight song
Take back my life song
Prove I'm alright song
My power's turned on
Starting right now I'll be strong
I'll play my fight song
And I don't really care if nobody else believes
'Cause I've still got a lot of fight left in me."

Yes, I've still got a lot of fight left in me. Thanks, Boston, for showing me how to be a champ! 

Nowotwór --Elizabeth

I Returned to Work today

Monday, June 27, 2016
I returned to work today. I am grateful for my stamina and recognize that I am being blessed, but I am exhausted. Good night! --Elizabeth

Sisters, Sisters!

Sunday, June 26, 2016

My sister Malena and her family came in from Arizona this weekend. As you can see in the photo, I enjoy this woman so much. I love to laugh with her. We were trying to take a selfie, but I couldn't hold the phone out far enough and take the photo at the same time, So, I was holding the phone out and Malena was trying to touch the photo taking button. We were like two of the three stooges. Haha! It was hilarious!

My sweet sister provided (with the help of a good samaritan) a small freezer for our family. Then filled it with home-made freezer meals. She has taught me so much about service all my life. She doesn't wait for someone to ask for help. She just listens to Spirit and then responds. 

She also made four beautiful hats for when my hair falls out. I will be posting some pictures of them soon.

Malena, thank you so much for your generosity and love. I am so happy to call you sister--for eternity! I love you! -- Elizabeth

Dear Cathie,

Friday, June 24, 2016

Dear Cathie,

This morning I was sad, so I prayed for an angel. I never in a million years dreamed it would be you!! And I am so grateful that it was. J

It is no coincidence that we were both on outings with our daughters who are preparing for missions and just happened to run into each other. As we were having our own personal reunion, our daughters were connecting so well even though they have never met.

As we sat together and I asked about your sweet family, I was not prepared for your personal journey with your 5 year old son who has cancer. All of a sudden, my cancer came into focus and I am so grateful that I have this burden and not my children. How do you do it? How do you watch your sweet little boy suffer? How do you not pray that you wish it was you and not him? Oh, how you must relate, in some small way, to Heavenly Father who watched His Only Begotten Son suffer? You are strong! And you are brave!

Thank you for speaking my new language—cancer. Thank you for the warnings. Thank you for the hope.

Do you remember the first time we met? It was about 25 years ago. We had just moved into your LDS ward and I was called to be the Mia Maid advisor. You were a Mia Maid. I loved you instantly. I remember the day vividly. I can’t remember your hair color but it was unusual for the day. J I wasn’t sure if you would like me, but that proved to be a non-issue. We became fast friends.

When you went into Relief Society, I became your visiting teacher. And then the day I got to be your Matron of Honor at your wedding – oh, what a blessing for me!  You were beautiful! I also remember being at your temple sealing.  Cathie, I am so proud of you!

You will never know what our miraculous meeting meant to me. It gave me a chance to look into your eyes and tell you honestly and sincerely that I love you. I always will.

Friends forever,

Elizabeth

P.S. To all my friends who read this post, will you add little 5-year-old Andon to your prayers? Thanks!

Someone Else's Shoes

Friday, June 24, 2016

I visited with my oncologist yesterday and we discussed a test called Oncatype DX that will help me know very specifically what the chance of my recurrence will be. I have just been trying to deal with the fact that I have cancer and not really thinking about if it could or would recur. It was actually quite sobering.

Even though my brain was going crazy, I slept better than I expected, so when I awoke around 5:00 a.m. I was well rested. I turned on the TV to find a BYU devotional by Sondra Heaston originally given on June 23, 2015 titled "Keeping Your Fingers on the Pulse of Service." It was a great talk and really uplifted me. She shared a YouTube video from the Cleveland Clinic that really affected me. Here is a link, if you interested in watching it (4:23 long):
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDDWvj_q-o8  P.S. Have a tissue handy.

I am learning that every person has a story. May we all be just a little kinder to each other.
Sending love and hope to each of you as your own story plays out. --Elizabeth

2 Nephi 9:52

Tuesday, June 21, 2016

Tonight we read 2 Nephi 9 as a family and I found verse 52 of particular interest to me, “pray unto [God] continually by day, and give thanks unto his holy name by night. Let your hearts rejoice.”

As you can imagine, my prayers have truly been continual by day. And I have many reasons to give thanks by night for my heart truly is rejoicing. 

Here are just two of the numerous reasons why:

1. I was able to get dressed all by myself today. Something so simple but means so much!

2.  Dr. Larsen removed the drains from my surgical sights. Hallelujah!! And gave me a glowing report of progress. He is pleased with my healing and is hopeful that I won’t need radiation therapy (which was the best news since I got the drains removed . . . literally minutes before. J)

Yes, I pray. Yes, I give thanks. And yes, my heart rejoices. May yours do the same – I highly recommend it! -- Elizabeth

No news is good news!

Monday, June 20, 2016
I really don't have any exciting news to report for today.
I made breakfast for my family, washed my hair (with the help of my sweet daughter), spent time with friends and family, took a walk with Mark, took a nap, counted my blessings, and thoroughly enjoyed being alive. I change my mind -- I DO have exciting news -- Thanks be to God that I am alive!
The simple things seem so much sweeter to me now. May you find joy in every moment of your life and hug your loved ones just a few minutes longer tonight!
--Elizabeth

Trail to Recovery

Sunday, June 19, 2016

My sweet husband and the most amazing father of our two daughters took me to my "trail to recovery" today. I didn't walk far, but the goal was to be outside and feel the sun on my face and breathe fresh air with Mark by my side. We are both so grateful for my baby steps to healing.

Happy Father's Day to all the dads in the world! May your life be filled with sunshine, but remember that the occasional cloud makes you appreciate the sun even more when it comes.
--Elizabeth

"You've Been Heart Attacked!"

Saturday, June 18, 2016

Today I had a heart attack, but don't be worried -- it was the paper kind all over my door. And instead of it making my heart hurt, it made my heart happy!! -- a million times over!! The note said that it was "someone in the Primary." I am hoping that it was a group of the best children on the planet. I love these little people. I had visits from 9 of them today. They brought me fruit "because it will help you get better" and homemade mint brownies "because they are [your] favorite." I am holding the brownies in the picture with all the handsome boys. My sweet little Nursery child was concerned about my "ohwie" as she tenderly patted my leg. Then as she left, she said, "Bye, Grammy!" Oh how I love these children. I know that I am doing so well due to the prayers of those who love me. Honestly, how can God not answer the prayers of these sweet angels? 

May you find in your life the innocence and love of a child!!

--Elizabeth

I'm home!

 Friday, June 17, 2016
Well, God heard and answered our prayers! The surgery was a huge success. The lymph nodes are clean. My pain has been controlled the whole time. The nurse asked me last night what my pain level was, and I honestly answered "zero." What a blessing! Granted I am on pain meds. :)

Mark is a wonderful nurse. I am grateful for an amazing support team. If you are reading this, then you are one of my team members and I thank you!

I was able to walk outside today up the street a few houses. It felt so good to feel the sunshine on my face and a gentle breeze in my hair. Oh, how I love the simple things--like being home!
-Elizabeth

"A Child's Prayer"

I am a Primary president which means that I get to spend precious time thinking about and serving some of Heavenly Father's precious children ages 18 months through 11 years old. And I love them!
Last Sunday, after I told them about my cancer in Junior Primary, we sang together (well, some of us might have cried) the sweet Primary song by Janice Kapp Perry, "A Child's Prayer."

"Heavenly Father, are you really there?
And do you hear and answer every child's prayer?
Some say that heaven is far away,
But I feel it close around me as I pray.
Heavenly Father, I remember now
Something that Jesus told disciples long ago:
'Suffer the children to come to me.'
Father, in prayer I'm coming now to thee.

Pray, he is there;
Speak, he is list'ning.
You are his child;
His love now surrounds you.
He hears your prayer;
He loves the children.
Of such is the kingdom, the kingdom of heav'n."

I bear humble witness that God really does hear and answer prayers. I have truly felt heaven close around me these past few weeks. I know I am His daughter. I know He loves me as He loves all His children. I know that I will not be alone tomorrow as I go through one of the hardest things I have ever done in my life--my surgery to remove my cancerous tumor. This has been a very emotional journey and the physical journey is just beginning, but I am fully trusting in God to support and sustain me.

Thank you to everyone who is praying for me, my sweet family, and my medical team. I am strengthened by you and your faith. We are going to win this war against cancer!! Thanks for being on my team! -Elizabeth

Roses and Thistles

Tuesday, June 14, 2016

Roses and thistles -- an interesting combination for a floral bouquet, but so symbolic of the journey I am on. The thistles make the roses look so much more beautiful, but I am learning to find beauty in the thistles as well. Life is more precious when it is challenged.

Thank you to my thoughtful friends in the floral department where I work, who so kindly gave me this beautiful bouquet. It truly is a symbolic work of art.

Bill's Famous CT Lemonade

On Friday, June 10, 2016, I met Bill.

Bill is a highly trained technician who conducted my PET/CT scan. He first put a radioactive solution in my IV and quickly left the room because being near me also exposes him to radiation. All of a sudden, I had a whole new appreciation for the men and women who put their lives in harm's way to do this work. Obviously they take precautions, but still they are exposed and I am grateful.

While I left the room to go to the restroom, Bill delivered 2 cups of "lemonade" for me to drink. It contained a liquid CT contrast. Bill had kindly added lemonade mix to the solution to make it more palatable. He told me that most people don't like it, but encouraged me to do my best to drink it all and that he would give me another cup in about an hour, right before the scan.

I lifted the cup to my lips prepared to taste the nastiest stuff ever, but was immediately surprised by the delicious taste. I downed the two cups much faster than he expected. I was happy to drink the last cup an hour later.

Bill, thanks to you and every other person who works in the medical field who are kind, compassionate, and sympathetic to people like me who are facing overwhelming challenges. And if you ever open a sidewalk lemonade stand. I want to be your first customer. I would actually pay for that lemonade. Oh, actually, I guess I did pay for it. Wait a minute -- that lemonade was REALLY expensive!!!!

"You Are Loved"

Saturday, June 11, 2016

Decisions, decisions, I am overwhelmed with decisions!

They must be made quickly and so we can’t spend a lot of time mulling things over. We are completely trusting in God that He will direct our path. 

Mark and Morgan went to work today, so I decided to take a walk on my favorite path, Gailey Trail at Nicholls Park in Fruit Heights, Utah. It is a wooded ravine with a peaceful stream that runs the entire distance. It makes me feel like I am back in Kentucky, and I really miss my mom and dad right now.

As I got out of the car, I prayed that I would feel God’s love on this peaceful walk and that I would know the answer to a difficult decision we are facing regarding my cancer. I walked down a short path to get to the trail head and found this sign:

I see the sign every time I walk the trail (several times a week), but this time it was leaning against a tree. This caused me to notice it a little more which allowed me to see a small addition to the sign in the upper right corner:

I wasn’t wearing my glasses, so I had to move closer. There on a small Post-It note was my answer:

I AM LOVED!! I wanted to shout it out to the world. I am loved by God, the creator of heaven and earth and all things that in them are. I am a tiny speck when it comes to His creations and here I was, His daughter, needing to know that He loved me, He knew me, and He knew I had cancer and I was having a hard day. And there it was – plain as day -- "You Are Loved."

Read the fine print. It says #randomloveletter.

I pray that you will find your “random love letter” from God. I promise that He knows you and loves you as much as He loves me for God is not a respecter of persons. Aren’t we so blessed?! I will praise His name forever!

And whoever is reading this, I know it is because you love me, and I love you too. Thanks for being my friend on this incredibly difficult journey. Please let me know how I can help you on yours. And may God bless the angel who put that note on the sign just for me. -- Elizabeth