The beginning...

 It started early on a Sunday morning (March 7th). Angie noticed a lump. It was probably nothing...but still. Monday she called to see the doctor. This lead to a biopsy and mammogram. 

On March 29th, she was told it was breast cancer. A small miracle happen--she was seen by a great breast surgeon 3 hours later to get moving on next steps. We were told it was aggressive--on a scale 1-3-it's a 3. The size was moderately small less than 2cm. But still-- it was cancer. April 1st she would have an MRI and additional testing done. She met next with the oncologist (April 8th) who explained it's "Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)." Chemotherapy --the harshest kind, surgery, radiation would need to happen. That day was a hard day to hear all of this. 

Apparently, breast cancer will typically test positive for estrogen, progesterone, or HER2 receptors but with TNBC those are all locked so it limits treatment options. After her oncologist presenting Angie's case to the tumor board and team of physicians he advised her to start AC Chemo for 4 doses spread every other week, 8 weeks total. Next, she would have Taxol each week for 12 weeks. After chemo, she'll take a few weeks to gain some strength and the plan will be for a lumpectomy. This will be key to her progress. The lumpecotmy will reveal if she has a 'complete response' to the chemo regimen. If it's 'complete' this will be amazing! The doctor may still advise radiation. However, if there are any cancer cells, she will be advised to have radiation and follow up with a chemo pill. Throughout the chemotherapy her oncologist will evaluate her closely to see how she is tolerating the treatment and make adjustments as necessary. He will also check an ultrasound to see if the tumor is reducing.

Here are some positives:

-God--He has been faithful and good through this heartbreaking process. There are so many ways His sovereignty is all over this journey. Before we even knew it was cancer--none of us thought it was anything to be anxious about. We laid hands on Angie, anointed her with oil, and gave this to God 'before it was even a thing.' We know this has not surprised Him or dismayed Him. We trust in Jesus through this process.

-She has the A -TEAM! She's been assured by several sources her team of doctors is the best!

-We have a nurse that is the BOMB! She works for the breast surgeon-her name is Jennifer and she has been a huge blessing! 

-Angie has a great positive attitude with amazing faith!

-Angie has a great support team and growing by the minute :)

Prayer Requests:

-Comfort during chemo set to begin April 27th

-Good results on the echo-cardiogram, cat scan, and ultrasounds

-No cancer in other places of her body.

-Successful treatment with this chemo-COMPLETE response!

-Angie’s body will respond and manage the treatment well (stay healthy and feel well)

 We will try to update this journey weekly or as needed. Thank you for being part of this battle with Angie!

 

In His Love and Grace,

Julie Krager