Another email...

Dear Friends:

I wanted to provide you all with a quick update on Karen’s diagnosis and treatment. But first, I want to express our deep gratitude for the response we have received from all of you. When I sent the first email, I knew that you loved Karen and would pray for her, which is all that I could have presumed to ask. I had no idea of the love and encouragement we would receive. Your responses have already filled a treasure chest full of encouragement and blessings. We our overwhelmed with your kind words, offers of assistance and commitments to pray. Thank you so much! I know that all of you have encountered your own hardships and trials, and you understand how important these things are. The wisdom that has been shared is priceless. Please know that we count it a privilege to call you our friends and we will be praying for you also.

Karen’s diagnosis is infiltrating ductal carcinoma, grade III. It is breast cancer that has reached the lymph nodes under her arm. We think that it has been caught fairly early, but we will learn much more this week. We have an appointment with one of the best doctors in the world Monday morning at Mayo’s Breast Clinic. We will have a consultation with a surgeon on Thursday and an oncologist on Friday. We expect the treatment to begin immediately. We are so thankful that we are being seen at one of the best clinic’s in the world. The care we have already received has been fantastic. They are extremely compassionate and responsive, and move very quickly.

Karen’s attitude is wonderful. She is a quiet warrior trusting in our Heavenly Father for her comfort and strength. Our children are doing well and are great comfort to Karen and I. I will continue to provide updates and let you know what our needs are if that is okay. Thank you again for your encouragement and prayers.

Love,

Craig