July 24, 2018 · from Lesley’s original CaringBridge journal
Just a quick update after surgery:
First of all, I have never felt more covered in prayer than I did last Wednesday. I thought I would be a mess of nerves and emotion and they would need to knock me out in the parking lot to get me under control. It couldn’t have been more the opposite. I was fine. We laughed with nurses. I responded to the millions of well wishing texts. I truly had a peace that surpassed what would seem to be normal. The last thing I remember was my sweet surgeon squeezing my hand until I went to sleep. She is a wonderful lady and I am so thankful to be in her hands.
Surgery went well. I did not have any weird post op complications (those that have been around for previous surgeries of mine would know this is a rarity. I have a history of being the odd 1% that does the unexplainable). I have not had a ton of pain – it has mostly been soreness. The biggest issue is that my left arm has limited motion because of her having to take lymph nodes. I have a good bit of numbness in my arm as well. This is normal. I have exercises to do to help it. But it could be months before the feeling returns. I have been surprised at how I’ve felt. Recovering from my previous abdominal surgeries was way worse than this.
I am restricted on lifting so I cannot pick up Gus – this is probably the hardest thing we are all having to deal with. I also can’t hold him at all right now because he may hit my incision or pull on the surgical drain (which by the way is one of the grossest things ever!). He does not understand this in the least bit and is quite vocal with his objections.
We are waiting on pathology and still prayerful that we get clean margins. I will let you all know those results when we get them.
We also got denied again by insurance for my Proton Therapy (they called on my way home from the hospital last Thursday). We will continue to appeal but we are realistically looking at other options. We have a GoFundMe page set up (there is a link on the CaringBridge page under “ways to help”) and are talking to various financial people about payment plans, loans, etc. This is a huge decision and we want to make the right one. Being self pay for something this big is really stepping out on faith but I know that God will continue to provide and will not let go of us now. It is humbling to have to ask for help – but then again, this whole cancer business has been humbling. It is also in the midst of being humbled that we see more of God’s hand and experience so much more of His grace and mercy. So if that is how the next step of this journey is going to go I say bring it on! I’m ready to see what He has in store because I am sure it’s going to be awesome!
Comments from CaringBridge
Wanda Stephens — 7/24/18
I am so sorry you’re experiencing this so young! It is quite a testimony to your faith in acknowledging it is when we are humbled that we are most holy and are given strength for battle. Keep fighting sweet girl! His strength is perfect, even when your strength is gone. We are praying for your divine healing, God’s mercy in providing comfort, and that He will work in every situation and through every obstacle for your good and His glory! Love and Prayers to you and your sweet family!!
michele gano — 7/24/18
You really don’t know me, but I’m praying for you anyways (Sharon’s friend); May God continue to give you His grace and His peace in the midst of this big journey. Blessings to you and all of your handsome children. 🙂
Nancy Mitchell — 7/24/18
Thinking of you and praying specifically that God will protect, provide and heal! 💖 you, Lesley!
Pam Cook — 7/24/18
Glad to hear from you. Praying! Love to you all. ❤️🙏
Movene Futch — 7/24/18
Rejoicing with you that the surgery went well. Praying for God’s healing and provision to cover each of you.
Karen Stotts (Kreg’s mom) — 7/24/18
Leslie I am praying for the resources or God’s other provision to come through so you can have the newer radiation, but being secure in knowing you are in his direct care is so comforting. I will pray for God’s continued wisdom and direction in this decision.
Kim Watts — 7/24/18
So glad things went so well. Praying for clean margins, minimal pain, continued healing and peace! Praying the insurance company reconsiders! I fought that fight, it’s a scary, long fight! Stay strong!
Cancermamma 