Hi, Everyone! It’s been so long since I checked in, I had to call my bro and ask him for the Login password! I have read messages since the last time I posted and want to thank all those who have written. I am so encouraged by your words and so grateful for all your love!

Dr. Meng called me last week with the pathology report and I’m not exactly sure why I’ve procrastinated writing it here. It’s not terrible news, not even really surprising. I’ll give the good news first: it’s not a new kind of cancer. (There was some concern that it could have been ovarian cancer. I didn’t even know it was possible to harbor different kinds!)The not-so-good news is that it was the same kind of cancer as I’ve had before: mucinous adenocarcinoma. It looks like it was a metastasis to the right ovary so it’s a good thing they took that and the tube out. That tumor and the one on the bladder look like they had clean margins–no alien-type tendrils sticking out or sticky messes stuck to other organs. The surgeon sounded pretty positive they he got everything that can be seen. The plan is to keep “a close eye” on me (nothing new there). I’ll have my next CT scan in mid-May to make sure nothing’s growing where it shouldn’t be.

In the meantime, I’m taking my Protocel every 6 hours. I’m not having any of the mucus side effects I’ve read about (sorry to get so graphic, but come on! This is a medical blog afterall. : >). All I can say is that I’ve felt GREAT! My energy has been really good. I just feel so lucky and happy. I’ve been taking one hour walks every day, sleeping well, drinking my vegetable cocktails that the Bunny Brigade has so very generously kept me stocked in, and eating wonderful soups and salads brought by the best cooks in town–probably anywhere.

I’ve been to school a couple times, both last week and this week, and it has been so fun! I love seeing the children and their families. I’ve missed them so. And Lois, my co-teacher, is extraordinary to see in action. It’s like she’s been in that classroom with those kids forever. I can tell they feel so safe and happy with her. They are thriving. Thank you Lois and to all the parents that are helping to make this transition as easy and as smooth as possible. Starting the week of May 7, I plan to start teaching part-time and work my way up to full time before Kinder graduation.

The other fun news is that “The Creators of this Blog”, more affectionately known as my brother, Brian, his wife, Meg, and their daughter, Breegan are flying up from San Diego to have a visit this weekend. We’re planning to go to the Monterey Bay Acquarium, see my mom, my sister and her family. I can’t wait!

Well, one of the reasons I think I’ve been dragging my feet around writing about the pathology results is because I think this may mark the ending of the blog. I’m not ready to say any final “good byes” and being new to this whole cyber-community thing, I’m not even sure how one does “officially” sign off. I do know that I can’t find the words to adequately describe what it has meant to me and Howard and my family to be the recipients of so much love and support during such a scary time. You all truly are the most loving and generous friends I could ever dream of having. I know that my healing has everything to do with your prayers, your optimism, and your care. May I live a long, long, long life so that I get many, many opportunities to serve and to share the love I’ve received. May we all live long and well and get thousands of opportunities to play together.

Blessings to all,

Katalina

Howard Health