On Friday, April 25, 2014, a benefit at Morrison Community Hospital was given to help support me and my family financially, for the cancer treatments and doctor visits I have needed since November 8, 2012.
Th[at wa]s the first time that Russ and I heard that I had breast cancer. What a scary ordeal. We didn’t have much time to think about it, as it was a cancer that could spread quickly, and they wanted to move fast. I had a port put in the next day and ended up in the ER the same night, because my lung was nicked and…was collapsing. I had one of three chest tubes placed that night. The other two would come later on, as I had a biopsy done on my right lung and then lung surgery. I think Russ and the boys were more scared than [I was], but [I] believe that they are more relaxed now.
I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer again, [the] same type as in November 2012. There was a spot on my left lung and a spot in my pelvic area. I have been taking chemo pills for this and all is going pretty well. I get out of breath easily but am able to keep on throughout the day. I did have some fluid buildup around my right lung [Thursday,] May 1st. This was drained, and I have been feeling better. I guess there is always something that has to keep you on your toes.
Much thanks to Amy Dodge and other [MCH] employees who organized and had a successful fundraiser! It was so fun to see baskets that were donated by employees and also community members of Morrison, Sterling, and possibly Dixon and Fulton, IL, maybe even Clinton, IA. Amy is a little protective of just who donated, but I want all of you to know that I and my family really appreciate it!
[It was] such a fun week with so many people to come and look at the baskets that would be just right for them. Some of the big items were ones that quite a few wanted, and it was fun to see who actually got the items. The baked goods were awesome, too, and I appreciate the time that was involved in creating them.
I received another check from some people in Sterling who lost a wife, Mom, sister and daughter to breast cancer. I truly am thankful to them for sharing part of their fundraising to help my family out. They were also able to give out a number of scholarships to individuals in Prophetstown, IL, and Sterling.
For those who donated money, thank you. Everyone was so generous, and if you came to just say Hi, that was nice, too. I haven’t seen some people for awhile.
I think all of the employees enjoyed the day, as it was very successful, and very nice to see good friends and enjoy the day together.
Thank you so much,
Sharon, Russ, Kendall, Bobby, and Adam Deter