1328 January 4 – July 16, 2026 Unexpected Turn of Events
We were not sure whether or not we would continue this blog. We decided though that this was our story. This had been a record of our travels. The journey we have found ourselves on for the past 6 months was unexpected. I had a follow-up mammogram in December and after that, a biopsy. I was diagnosed on December 15th with breast cancer. We had planned to leave Atlanta and then we were going to spend the winter in Florida. We cancelled those plans and after the New Year, we drove back to Maryland.
It was too cold to stay in our RV. Kyle and Allison, knowing that we would be at home for a long time, cleared out the workout room and made a beautiful bedroom for us. I had an MRI and saw the surgeon within days of our return. Surgery was on January 30th.
The next day, we had a big party for Wade’s second birthday. That little boy has brought me so much joy.
We took a quick trip to Rock Hall, Maryland as I was recovering. It was very cold and the ground was covered with ice. We saw lots of wildlife at Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge.
Chemo started at the end of February. 4 cycles, one every three weeks…12 weeks altogether. Between cycles we planned trips!
At the beginning of March, on my good week, we went to Solomon’s Island for several days.
At the end of the month when I was feeling well, we went to Ocean City.
One more quick trip to Colonial Beach.
One week after my last chemo session, we went to Atlanta. We wanted to be there for Austin’s birthday.
Before radiation began, we went to Cape Charles for my birthday.
These small trips did so much to lift our spirits and to get us ready for whatever was to follow.
We also had some good quality time with Tim’s family.
More fun!
20 sessions of radiation were complete on July 9th. The past six months have taught me a lot. I value so much all of the neighbors, family, and friends who have been there to provide unwavering support and encouragement. This support took the form of texts, calls, visits, cards, lotions, sourdough bread, potato pancakes, origami talismans, Jeni’s ice cream, lunches, dinners, flowers, and so much more. I was continuously amazed by the outpouring of love and the generosity of my village. Please know that I will pay it forward!
Most of all, Tim was my constant, my rock. He was with me through it all. He saw me on my hardest days and he was there with a strong and steady manner and a Body Armor. We always promised that we would be there for one another…and the proof was in his actions. I am truly loved and blessed.
Now that we have completed this portion of our journey, we are ready to look forward and get back on the road. This last night we said goodbye to Kyle. Kyle and Allison have done so much for us, there are no words of thanks that would be adequate. We are so very grateful. We are sad to leave but we are eager for some time to explore, some time to slow down and breathe and recover.