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In the fall of 2019, our family faced a whirlwind of emotions as we prepared to share both wonderful and devastating news with our children. At the end of July, we discovered I was expecting our third child, a little girl. Just a few weeks later, however, I received the shocking diagnosis of cancer. It was an overwhelming mix of joy and fear.
A Shocking Discovery
One evening in August, while enjoying a family game night with Monopoly, I leaned over to collect my winnings and felt a lump beneath my skin. My initial instinct was to dismiss it as a bruise or a muscle strain, but deep down, I knew I needed to get it examined. I scheduled an appointment with my doctor for the next day.
Walking into the doctor’s office, I tried to calm my nerves, convincing myself it was probably nothing serious, perhaps just a cyst. But my heart dropped when my doctor expressed concern and recommended a biopsy. We both uttered, “I’m sure it’s nothing,” but I sensed her intention was to reassure me while I clung to that phrase for comfort.
The Waiting Game
The procedure was scheduled for the following week, but my anxiety grew as we were set to leave for our annual trip to the Jersey shore the next day. I wanted to put the looming worry behind me and enjoy the time with my family. After what felt like an eternity, I received the call with the results while playing shuffleboard with my son. The words “You are positive for breast cancer” shattered my world. I stepped away, tears streaming down my face, grappling with the gravity of the news.
My son noticed I was upset and asked, “Why are you crying, Mom?” I struggled to find the right words. Eventually, I called my husband to share the devastating news, and when he arrived, I collapsed into his arms, still in shock.
Honesty with Our Children
The following morning was difficult. I hadn’t slept at all, consumed by research on breast cancer. When I finally joined my children for breakfast, I broke down again. Our son asked, “Mom, why are you crying?” I knew I had to be honest with him about my diagnosis. I explained that while cancer can be serious, I had a type that was treatable, and I was learning about it just like him. I gave a simplified version of the news to our younger daughter, ensuring both kids were informed and could ask questions.
We decided to wait to tell them about the new baby until I had my treatment plan in place. When we finally shared the exciting news, their joy was palpable. We created a scavenger hunt for them to discover the message that we were having a baby, and every day we’re grateful for our little one.
A New Family Tradition
Now, a year and a half into treatment, we have a family tradition of sharing our daily highs and lows around the dinner table. This journey has been filled with ups and downs, but being open with each other has helped us cope together. Our children even took turns shaving my head when it was time; it became a bonding experience instead of just a fear.
Resources for Support
For more information on navigating pregnancy and fertility options, you can check out this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination. Additionally, if you’re looking into at-home insemination, you may find this guide helpful.
Summary
In the fall of 2019, a woman navigated the highs of pregnancy alongside the lows of a breast cancer diagnosis. Through open communication, her family adapted to the challenges, celebrating their growing family while confronting her illness with honesty and support.