On Saturday, April 2 I went to the emergency room with horrible headaches. Several hours later I was told, after a CT Scan, that I had a mass in my head/brain. What that meant at the time, I was not sure. They said I needed surgery and I was going to be admitted to ICU. Surgery wasn’t going to be until Monday at the earliest. So, ICU for a couple of days while they ran more tests to see what was there.
I ended up having surgery on Tuesday morning, then back to ICU.
I have been blessed in many ways. First, the tumor that was removed was fully encapsulated. This made removal better than it could have been. Also, thanks to CrossFit, I am very healthy and fit. I am also not too old – at least I like to think that… So age is a good factor for me.
I have been surrounded by loved ones and friends ever since I was admitted. My partner, Jen, my dear friend Eileen (E), and the trainers and others from CrossFit Phoenix. I have also been in the thoughts of many people who I have spent time with, who I haven’t’ seen in a while. My Anthem cycling community, and other distant relatives.
My Facebook community has been overwhelming. And the CrossFit community as well. People I don’t really even know have been wishing me their best, praying for me, and keeping me in their thoughts. I am overwhelmed by this outreach, and truly feel blessed. So blessed.
The next journey begins this week. Radiation and Chemo, to ensure that I get anything left behind out of my head. I am kicking this thing to the curb. And kicking it far. I don’t want it back, and I am pissed off. One thing CrossFit has prepared me for is a fight. And I am fighting all the way.
I have many weeks ahead of me. Lots of appointments, changes, and challenges. I will attack them all like the most difficult WOD. And I will get this done. 3, 2, 1….. FIGHT!!! I am kicking ass and taking names!!!!!!
So this is the first of some posts to start to document the changes that are taking place, and allow me the ability to ”talk” about what is going on.
Right now I just feel overwhelmed by the outpour of love and support. Truly overwhelmed.
I also feel like I was just handed a ton of lemons, and I plan on making a ton of lemonade!
Posts
8 comments:
You ROCK Lauriel..... if anybody can beat this it's you and with Jen by your side she will give you that extra push that we all need sometimes to finish your toughest WOD.... You will dominate this WOD just as you have all the other WOD's you have ever faced!
Hi Lauriel, I want you to know that I have had you in my thoughts and prayers DAILY since hearing about your diagnosis. My father had a brain tumor at age 49 and BEAT IT to live to be 70!! YOU GO GIRL! I have NO DOUBT you will dominate this WOD and PERSEVERE! God Bless You....
The Crossift world can have Eva and Annie and Fran....I appreciate them but none as much as I appreciate you and am thankful you are making lemonaid out of lemons! Thank you for showing the rest of us how to face adversity with grace. Let us know when you get the all clear to WOD, we will drive down and celebrate with you!
Once again Lauriel, your perspective is right on the spot. I am glad to know you and your attitude gives me strength. Our prayers are with you,
Tupac
Thank you all for your support and kind words.
Lauriel - Tom gave me the address for your blog - I am so glad to hear you are up for the fight and that you are staying positive. I will stay posted this way, and continue to pray for you. So glad that you are loving lemonade!
Rita
Lauriel, You are such an inspiration! Way to go! You have been & will continue to be in my prayers & thoughts. I'm so glad Tom let us know what was going on & I will watch for your posts here. Your lemonade will be the best ever! Hugs,
Jamie B. from Anthem
Lauriel,
I don't know what a WOD is but I am sure you will overcome it with style and grace. I am glad to hear that things are going well and you are so up for the challenge. You are certainly physically up to it. Your life has had so many dimensions to it you should really consider writing a book. Everyone sure is pulling for you and are all convinced this speed bump is a small challenge for you. If there ever was a Superwoman, you are her. We love you and are praying for you every day.
Best Regards,
John and Nancy Entreken
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