Where has Martha been?
This is the most difficult blog post I have ever written. But I always say we're getting through this thing called life together, so here's why my radio sisters Jana and Christie have been subbing for me this past month:
In May I was diagnosed with endometrial cancer, a cancer that develops in the uterus. Very soon after my diagnosis, I underwent a hysterectomy. I was very relieved to learn after the surgery I was Stage 1, meaning no cancer spread to my lymph nodes or surrounding areas, but chemotherapy plus radiation has been recommended to make sure no undetected cells start new colonies anywhere. No thanks colonies, not today!
One way my husband Jordan and I are getting through this stressful time is we’re placing a high priority on finding joy every day. We start in the morning by declaring, “Today is going to be a great day,” and then look for ways that prediction is coming true. We finish our day by asking, “What went right for us today?” That can be Cheap Trick dance parties in the living room with our kids, enjoying beautiful sunsets together, or finding my mother’s engagement ring that I thought had been lost! My producer Karena Velazquez and Christie counseled me early on to make a choice each moment to walk towards the light. I picture myself walking like Michael Jackson in the Billie Jean video, walking on the light-up sidewalk squares.
Please check out the Cleveland Clinic’s early-warning signs for endometrial cancer:
- Vaginal bleeding between periods before menopause.
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting after menopause, even a slight amount.
- Lower abdominal pain or cramping in your pelvis, just below your belly.
- Thin white or clear vaginal discharge if you’re postmenopausal.
- Extremely prolonged, heavy or frequent vaginal bleeding if you’re older than 40.
Thank you for taking this journey with me. Prayers, good vibes, and healing thoughts are accepted!
~Martha