the “booby call”

In hindsight, when I think back to that call I received on August 8^th, I am actually quite surprised as to how calm I was when I heard the words “Kelly, I’m sorry to have to tell you this but it’s not what we were hoping…” In true “Kelly” fashion, I had my notebook and pen with me and wrote down every word the doctor said. In some sense, I almost felt like I was prepared for this news, but at the same time I was hoping it wouldn’t be true.

After the call ended is another story. All of a sudden, everything felt very foggy and shaky. My world was literally shifting before my eyes. Then came the collapse and tears. So many thoughts ran through my mind. One thing I know for certain -- I will never be able to adequately thank the amazing individual who rescued me after that life-changing call. You know who you are.

To be honest, when I received my specific diagnosis, I didn’t realize that there were various types of breast cancer. I just thought it was one disease with various stages. With all the media coverage, you would think that I would have known more. Sadly, I didn’t pay as much attention to it as I should have. Sure, I acknowledged breast cancer awareness before but now I get it. In fact, now, I feel like I could write a book on the subject matter.

One of the things they tell you when you receive your diagnosis is -- don’t do any research on the Internet. I’ll admit it was hard not to look. After all, you do want to learn and understand what’s going on with your body. But I quickly understood why they make this recommendation. While filled with a lot of information and resources, it is also a scary world that can be very negative. Seriously, who needs any more fear or worry? So, I put a stop to that nonsense. Instead, I chose to get the facts from other reliable sources – ones that would fill me with hope, strength and courage.

So, you may be looking for the details of my specific diagnosis but you won’t find them here. While I am open to talking about everything, I’d rather not give the medical terminology on this platform to then be turned around and looked up online – as it won’t be helpful to anyone. If you find yourself wanting to know the facts, don’t hesitate to ask. I’m more than willing to share. I just ask that you keep thinking positive, like I have!

Now I think I need to lighten the mood a bit…what do you say? How about a lil’ musical number to bring out the WARRIOR in all of us? My youngest brother, Ryan, is not only a very talented artist (he designed my blog – love it) but also a great musician. Check out his remix of the song “Warrior” that he recently entered into a contest. Let’s all vote and get him that 1^st place he deserves! Thank you, Ryan, for your beautiful creations and heart of gold. I love you so much.

Fun Fact: My first name means “Warrior Woman” and my middle name, Nicole, means “Victory of the People.” So, I often like to say that I’m successful in my battles…and I know I will win this one.

Ain’t no call like a Booby Call!

Kelly

P.S. Thank you so much for all of the encouraging comments and for joining my Boobster Club – your love and support means the world to me!