Alright, last time we sent an update we were waiting on the results of Bev's MRI and her genetic testing, and also praying for some guidance in the decisions that we're making now.
We're still waiting on the genetic testing, but we're expecting that to take another week. However, the results of that test aren't going to be as important now since, after taking everything into account, we've selected the option of a double mastectomy (both breasts removed) as the best choice.
The MRI apparently shows that the biggest of the two tumors is slightly larger than they were thinking. One doctor also thinks that the MRI showed a possible blip in the lymph node area - but it's really a waste of time to worry about "possible" blips when they'll more accurately be able to examine the area once they go in for surgery. If it's in the lymph nodes, we'll deal with it and she'll be fine, but let's keep praying that it's not.
As i write this email, our immediate goal is to get her in for surgery as soon as possible and start the road to getting Bev better.
A less immediate goal has to do with having kids somewhere down the line. B/c chemo can have a damaging effect on the ovaries, Bev took the initiative to make an appointment with a fertility specialist (yes you idiot i told her to just worry about her surgery, but i'm actually glad that we met with him in order to be prepared). Basically, if you have to take chemotherapy drugs, there's a % likelihood that your ovaries will be permanently damaged. After her surgery next week, we'll know if Bev needs Chemo. If she does, then we're going to go ahead and harvest some of beverly's eggs - which is not comfortable for any woman, but will be especially uncomfortable for bev since she'll be recovering from her mastectomy.
The best thing you can do for us - continue to send us encouraging words. We're continually encouraged by your amazing support - I'll get a message from Bev at least once a day saying how uplifting your emails are. So keep it up.
More importantly, keep praying. So far, God has answered prayer by putting people in our path that have been THE perfect person we need to talk to at that time. Specifically, please pray for: 1) wisdom in making decisions and then peace about those decisions; 2) that God would direct the heart, hands, and minds of our doctors; 3) that God would heal Beverly, either by his own hand or through the hands of our doctors; 4) that God will preserve our ability to have children; and 5) that we would handle all aspects of this situation in a way that glorifies God.
Love,
Dustin & Beverly
Romans 5:3-4 "We...rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance character; and character hope." (easier typed than done)
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Date: Thu, 14 Aug 2008 09:50:25 -0400
From: tnwyant@gmail.com
To: hopkinsbeverly@hotmail.com
Subject: poem
Hey there. Just got the update from Dustin. You guys are doing great, just keep hanging in there. I do hope you all let us know what day the surgery is. Anyway, last night I was sitting at home and I was able to finish the 'titty tale' so I hope you like it. By the way, I did use titty once in there, hope it's not offensive =) Love you!!
A Tale of Two Boobies
They were the best of boobs,
They were the worst of boobs.
Seem a wee bit dramatic?
Perhaps, but they did become problematic.
Beverly Hopkins Barr,
you're one of the best people by far.
You've got it all, looks & smarts to name a few.
And yes, presence, you've got that too!
Alas, your breast it misbehaved;
formed a tumor and it might not be saved.
Dustin says, 'get rid of that trouble maker,
minus a boob, that's no deal breaker!'
He's a good man, he'll stand by you true,
not shallow and vain, he's one of a few.
Chop off the offending titty,
don't worry, he'll still know you're pretty.
With one breast the Amazons made due,
surely you can too!
Or perhaps you could pick out two
that are completely brand new.
Think of the endless possibilities.
Go big, get all new housing facilities!
Plenty of models to chose from.
But chose wisely, on this you cannot be dumb.
The Madona cone
you too could own.
The Dolly Parton globe
would enhance any robe.
Pam Anderson jugs
would earn you more than just shrugs.
I ask only this and this alone,
don't go so large that to tripping you're prone.
A large chest is overrated,
for back problems you may be fated.
Little ones too can be cute,
this no one can refute.
Now remember just one more thing.
On days that are hard, to this please cling.
The outside is not all that matters in life.
You're a great friend, daughter, sister & wife.
Your beauty is more than an outer shell.
Who you are inside puts us under a spell.
With our without boobs, you're more than just swell!
You are loved by many, hope you know that well.
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