You have been loyally reading and supporting me in quiet and vocal ways. Some of you write things when I post (and I LOVE that!) Some of you tell me in person how you can relate to a situation that I have described. You have sent me cards and brought me presents and covered me with gentle, careful hugs. You have prayed and prayed and prayed. You are the hastily connected community whose love and strength has gotten me this far.
But, you have never met each other. So, let's do some introductions. Who are you? How do you know me? Do you have a cancer story of your own to tell?
Blogger tells me that there are 58 followers of this blog. And I know that there are many others of you who have not registered, as such. You are friends and family and co-workers and family of friends and co-workers of friends of family. It's time to make yourselves known.
ALL OF YOU.
Margie, Harriet, Cathy, Willodean: this means you. Okay, I might have made up Willodean. I don't know anyone by that name. But, I'm not joking about this. Everyone has to respond. It's your job.
I mandate it.
(P.S. If you have never done this, it's easy. Click on the comments link at the bottom of this post. Then, sign in with your google account. If you don't have a google account, just click "anonymous," but make sure to sign your name at the bottom!)
Okay, that's it. Ready, set, meet!
79 comments:
Hi Liz. Joe here, responding as commanded. All the Imholtes love all the Hewitts...hi everyone!
Hello everyone. (hello). Alix Crepeau here. (Hi, Alix). It has been two days since I have read Liz's blog.
I am not sure what you want posted, but we graduated class of '94 together at Vis. I am an OB/gyn working in Milwaukee right now, and unfortunately I have had too many patients who have had to fight against cancer. (boo, hiss!)
xoxo and get well soon so you can give your babies huggies!
Good Idea....Andy and Becky Carlson. We have a wonderful daughter-in-law, Gina Carlson who introduced us to you. Becky and I met you at your office one day. I am a property and casualty insurance agent. Becky works with a homeless ministry. We serve together as Area Coordinators with Operation Christmas Child. I am an online mentor with Power to Change (a Canadian Affiliate of Campus Crusade for Christ in Canada - Vancouver).
We appreciate the opportunity to pray with and for you...you are an inspiration to us and to others. Peace of the Lord be with you....Andy and Becky
Liz, I don't have a google account otherwise I would have commented earlier (thank you for the instructions). I still want to talk sometime. I have tried calling but didn't want to leave a message since we haven't even met over the telephone yet. I hope you are doing o.k. and hanging in there. You know that I know it isn't an easy thing....but know that I think of you often.
Fondly, Cheryl P. (Claire's sister-in-law)
Hi Liz. It's me Jennifer. Jennifer Arriola. I see you Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I'm reading so you don't have to tell your stories over and over and you can actually get things done at Vis. I am so awed by how you are making your way through this: this blog, the incredible amount of research you and Scott have done, and your humor. If I don't ask how you are every time I see you, it's because I think it might make you nuts. Know that I care and I think about you every day. Looking forward to Sweet Lake!
I'm Sarah, and I've been one of Liz's biggest fans since high school. I think her husband's okay, too. :)
Hi
This is Becky Olson. I worked with Scott at HealthPartners a few years back. I live in Sioux Falls now so haven't seen youfor a while, but have been following the blogs. All I can say is "Scott, how the heck you got Liz I don't know. I dont' even trust you with a power tool!". We keep sending our prayers and good wishes from Sunny South Dakota.
Becky Olson
Hey Liz- It's Gloria Swanson of Vis fame. My sister Christine led me to your blog. I'm just finishing up my first year as a pediatric resident at the U of M (11 days to go) and have loved reading all of your brave and honest commentary. I'm sending you lots of good wishes :)
This is me. I work with you, and <3 you. :)
I'm Aimee, and our daughters were in Kindergarten together this year. Carina spoke about Laila often and with great fondness. I loved finally meeting you at the end of the year, and meeting your husband at Carina's bowling party!
I'm no one you will ever know, but I am a good friend of someone you do know.
Ask the universe...... or God.... or whoever. I have seen miracles. As in, surviving stage four cancer thirteen years on.
Ask Believe . Receive.
Sending the best vines ever, kid.
Hello all,
I'm Martha, Liz's Aunt.
I'm a nurse and 15 years out from my own breast cancer diagnosis.
I've prayed and waited for minute by minute updates about every test, every procedure and every appointment. This blog has been so helpful.
Parts of our experience were the same and parts were different but the only part I really want to be the same is to have Liz still blogging 15 years from now. Love and healing energy are sent her way each day.
Stay well all,
Martha
Signing is as commanded! :) Meagan McLaughlin, Vis class of '88, co-worker of your mom at The Basilica, and cousin of your friend Mary Pat. I think of you and pray for you daily!
Liz, I have been following your blog for a long time. I log on everynight to see if you have posted anything. What I have learned by reading your blog is how much I miss your incredible sense of humor! I think of you often, and I will continue to pray for you and your family. Miss You! Amy Volkman
June 14, 2010 7:31 AM
Hi Liz - Thanks for the "invitation" to make myself known as part of your "silent" support community. My name is Terry Guindon. Your mom and I became friends as we went through the masters program at the Saint Paul Seminary. From the moment I met your mom I felt a special bond with her and knew that our friendship would be lifelong. Your mom has been an incredible support to me over the years and when I heard of your diagnosis I wanted to be able to return that support to you, your mom, and your entire family. I have met you on a few occasions and have always loved your positive energy and creativity. I follow your blog regularly. Thank you for your willingness to open yourself up to all of us. It is an honor to walk alongside you in spirit on this journey. Two of my co-workers were diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago. I witnessed their struggles through treatment and now I celebrate with them as they celebrate having their lives return to a new "normal" as they enjoy good health. I continue to send you positive, healing energy. You are in my thoughts often. Our cohort group has had "suck it, cancer" toasts in honor of you when we have gathered together for dinner. You are surrounded by a community of people who love and support you. Thanks for providing us with the opportunity to meet each other. Peace and Joy, Terry
Hi Liz. I'm keeping up with your blog and appreciate your sharing your life with us. I'm always thinking of you.
Tanya
We're the Dougherty Clan and we're big Hewitt fans (for nearly 20 years...holy crap). Lots of love to you today!
Anne, James, Seamus, Finn and MJ
Hi everyone! Mary Pat here...I have also had the good fortune of knowing Liz since high school. I'm a HUGE fan as I know all of you are. Love you Liz!
Hi, Liz, and hi, y'all. This is uncle Jeff Edwards from Tampa. Keep hanging in there, Liz!
Hi Liz and everyone. My name is Kelly (Finn) Tronstad . I graduated from Vis in '93. I have hooked up with Liz again via Vis events and facebook, of course. I am an avid reader of your blog, Liz. I have wanted to write so many times, but your entries leave me speechless. I am in awe of your wit, bravery, and honesty. You are truly an inspiration. You and your family are in my nightly prayers. I pray for your continued healing and much peace, health, and happiness.
Kelly
We met several years ago. You really changed my life from the moment we met and as I think back on it now, from months before we even met face to face.
We had a really good thing going and then I got pregnant and not just once...and that really changed things. But we made it work and I think it really made life better.
34 years and I love you more and more with the passing of time.
Oh and that guy you met and brought over and then moved in with, I love him too.
We've exchanged many gifts but you win, hands down in
the gift giving department...
Thanks for you, thanks for sharing Scott and Laila and
Owen, thanks for being the daughter and sister and mother you are.
May you be happy and healthy and be able to write love letters to your grown children and letters from fairies to you grandchildren.
Mom,aka, WB, aka Nona
I'm Crista, a co-worker at Vis. I'm appreciative of your non-censored sharing of information. My dad's side of the family is riddled with cancer, some survived, some did not.
My dad died when I was 16 - he did not pay attention to the cancer signals that his body gave him (all you men - please go to the doctor regularly! Your family needs you around past the age of 50!).
The women in my family that get cancer usually have post-menopausal breast cancer. So, someday, 15-25 years from now, even if we've lost touch, Liz's posts will be helping me cope with something that I personally may have to deal with.
Thanks for being who you are and being it well (and candidly).
I have known you since I was three and you were two, when you moved into the yellow house across the street where Nona and Pa still live.
We grew up together, ate tang on snow together, went to the lake together, to the Bahamas together, took flute lessons together and played duets at our annual recitals. When we were thirteen and twelve, we got gold lockets from our mothers with tiny pictures of ourselves inside. We tried out for plays together, sat in the orchestra together. When we were 15 and 14, Aunt Great introduced us to New York, and I returned to live there for twelve years.
At your wedding, I was proud to be your personal attendant. At my wedding, we slow danced together. Our kids make guest appearance on our blogs when schedules allow.
I didn't think I had a cancer story until you got sick and it made the impossible possible. All of a sudden, I see cancer everywhere: my in-laws, my uncles, my mom's cousins, my little brother. In sunscreen and diet coke and tin cans. I wish I didn't need to see this, to know this; even more, I wish you were not the one to show it to me, though you have shown me so much in our 32 years as friends.
I'm glad to hear from others who, like me, know you and love you and are inspired by your story.
--Heather
The Barry Family signing in-
We have known Scott and Liz for years. Both of you are wonderful and I cherish our friendship.
To all of the bloggers out there thanks for being such great friends to Liz.
Hugs,
Marlena, Dave, Grace, Ava, Charlie, and Lana
I always do as I'm told. (most of the time):) This is Becky, the almighty portress,checking in:) You don't even have to say anything when you walk by me in the morning, and you still bring a smile to my face. I am no guru at this blog thing, but your blog amazes me. Your the best!!
BIG HUGS to you :) ~Becky~
I'm Charlotte Cleveland--apparently not the only Charlotte keeping an eye on Liz.
I was first awed by Liz when she shared her Taokwondo belt keychain during our first UST master's cohort class a few short years ago. Our cohort of amazing women studied hard together for 2 1/2 years and we kind of got to know each other.
I teach at Vis and sometimes I run into Liz--though not as much as I would like to. I still think she is amazing.
Hi Liz - Charlotte Bovee here - another of your Vis connections. Unfortunately, I am older but certainly not wiser. One of my fondest memories of you is not so long ago - I believe it was the Nativity County Fair when you and your husband showed everyone including yourselves just how competitive you are.
PS - this is anonymous because I have no idea what my google account is - clearly not wiser just older.
Nice to meet you all!
Charlotte
I love your blog! I check it religiously and say a few prayers for you as well. I wish it was a happier topic but I love it nonetheless - you are an amazing writer. I've not had cancer myself, but my father and grandfather have both died because of it. CANCER is MEAN!!
WOW - I clearly know less about computers than my 7 year old that was all jumbled. It must be the rain.
Charlotte
It's another Martha here -- I work with Liz at Vis and was in her Masters cohort as well. She was amazing then (gave birth to Owen in the middle of things and STILL kept up with the rest of us!) and is still amazing now. Liz, you rock!
Hi Liz
Once again, I do as I'm told:
like when you "suggested" I put the dishes in the dish washer
like when you told me to convince everyone that reads the blog that you needed a 'half caf" Caribou -EVERYDAY!!!
like when you told me to spoil Laila and Owen by taking them to Disney World at least four weeks a year
like when you told me to teach Scott how to be nice to Nona (I'm still workin on that one)
like when you told me to be the best father-in -law ever (ya, ya, I'm still workin on that one too)
So hello fellow bloggers - I am the lucky guy who gets to call Liz my daughter-in law - and if you know my son Scott, you know, that like his father,
he married waaaay over his head!
Pop
Hello all - I went to high school with Liz (several years ago). She was inspiring back then too. I've also enjoyed seeing her at a couple of the alumni wine tastings too (non scholae sed vitae). Unfortunately, I've had too many family members battling this nasty disease so I appreciate Liz sharing her story.
Liz - you have a true talent with words... our Vis English teachers would be very proud! Keep up the good fight - you will win in the end. And in the process, will continue to entertain all of your readers and fans who are routing for you! :)
-Jen (Gutzmann) Glenn
I typically don't take direction so well, nor do I like being told what to do (apparently, neither do my kids). But, I know better than to defy Liz. My name is Anita. I went to Vis with Liz. She's my book club party, dearest friend and, even before cancer, is my role model. My entire fam (Nick, Samantha, Jack and Joey) love her and the rest of the Hewitt/Edwards clan dearly.
Hi. This is Anne Meschke here. I have known Liz since high school and am proud to call her my friend. I check this blog every day for a few reasons.
First, I love Liz and I am heartbroken and angry for her. I love being able to get updates on her journey.
Second, I am an OB/GYN and send people for testing after breast lumps are found frequently. When Liz called me during her early testing, I told her what I tell all my 34 year old patients with breast lumps, it is probably nothing. Get the tests done but don't worry too much. I think that knowing Liz will make me a more vigilant doctor.
Lastly, I received some difficult medical news around the same time as Liz, although of a completely different nature. Liz's inspiring words and attitude, as well as her honesty have helped me a lot as I navigate through the unknown. SO, Liz, thank you for helping me by letting me into your thoughts and feelings. You are truly amazing! And I love you!
Anne Meschke
Hi Liz, This is Maud. I've been following your story and overhelmed with your courage. Thank you for sharing it.
I was just thinking I met you 18 years ago! Wow ...
Maud, Brian Finn and Lucia Duggan
I'm Oanh - pronounced like Juan - and I have been a fan of Liz's since high school. I thought Liz was quite talented and fascinating the first time I saw her morph her tongue into the shape of a flower. Liz, you have shown such beautiful grace, humor and honesty during a very difficult time in your life. You have inspired all of us to be a better person. I think of you and pray for you daily.
Hi guys. This is Jamie Walsh, although if I write anything I use my husband's google account so it says "William said..." If he knew that it says that, he probably would be worried about what I post.
I met Liz in college at Saint Mary's. My husband, Bill, and Scott became good friends in high school and then continued on to college together. We have three kids ages 6, 4, and 2.
We just recently moved back to the Twin Cities and it has been great getting to see the Hewitts again. It is certainly true that no matter what, they are a strong and devoted family. They have been kind and welcoming since our return.
Liz, thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience with us. You are continuing your battle with grace and determination. Your ups and downs confirm that you are the wonderful human that were know you are.
Love and gentle hugs from the Walsh Family
Hi Liz. We have never met but my daughter, Kelli Kester, works at the Basilica with your Mom. She told me about your blog - I am a breast cancer survivor - and I have so enjoyed following it. (and my maiden name is Edwards...:)) I absolutely love how you are so real and honest and telling it like it is. While it has often been difficult to read because of all of the memories it evokes for me, I still wouldn't miss it for the world. You are such a gifted writer and to be able to weave your sense of humor and honesty into it, makes it all the more compelling. You have an important story to share and you are doing that very well. You are touching and saving lives with your invaluable information. Thanks for not glossing over the hard times, the painful times and the scary times. I am sorry that you have to go through this experience - I am grateful for your loving family, friends and support. May you continue to be brave, courageous, patient, grateful, and feel the love of all of us praying for and supporting you. Peace, Gladys Schmitt
OMG. I cannot follow directions very well. I read this days ago and am only now realizing that I am part of "everyone" and should respond.
I'm Renee, and you are my BFF, my favorite travel companion, and my son's godmother. And I'm the luckiest person I know because I know you!
Hi everyone. My name is Gina Alexander and my daughter was in the same kindergarten class as Liz's daughter, Laila. Last summer, I had the honor of being assigned to welcome the Hewitt's into the Nativity School community. My first communication with Liz was a phone conversation in which I reminded her about the upcoming kindergarten picnic. It went something like this:
Me (really peppy and enthusiastically): The kindergarten picnic is next Tuesday! It is a great way for you and your child to get to know her new teacher and classmates!
Liz (kind of whiny): Is it really that big of a deal? Because my husband is going to be out of town and I don't want to go alone.
And all I could think was, wow! She sounds like a dud. Who doesn't want to go to a kindergarten picnic? Ok, so maybe, just maybe, my memory of that conversation is a little cloudy, but nonetheless, Liz has proven me wrong. As we all know, she is far from being a dud. Since then, we have indeed become friends, as have our daughters. We've laughed over stories about our nice racks (although mine was in the form of a plant stand). My husband and Scott bonded over bowling at a child's birthday party. I've had the pleasure of getting to know Liz's very kind mother while arranging playdates, and I've marveled at what an amazing Grandpa her father is, especially during the really hot Daisy Scout picnic. I have been touched by cancer before, during my father's battle with colorectal cancer. Although I can't imagine what Liz is going through, I can relate to what Liz's family might be feeling. Liz, I pray for you everyday, my children pray for Laila's mom, and I also pray for your very special family. Thank you for sharing your very personal story with me.
Gina
I am Alicia, and I have only met you once at the Crow's game night. My husband, Paul, and I loved that night with you and Scott. I have enjoyed reading about your family on your other blog, and am in awe of your strength and courage (and humor) in this one. We pray for you all the time. Keep your positiveness up! We need to bug Christina to have another game night.
As for me and cancer, it has been sneaking into my family slowly, and makes my blood boil. Fight it! Beat it with a billy club!
I've never really had the privilege of knowing my favorite writers before, and yet after reading their stories I feel like I know them quite well, like we've just met for coffee and had a wonderful time together. In regards to my favorite writer of the moment--Liz Hewitt--I feel extra lucky to be able to say that I actually DO know her! We met a few years ago on the Vis alum board and only see each other occasionally, but reading this blog makes me feel like I've known her forever.
I'm praying for your health, Liz, and I look forward to continuing to follow your writing career, wherever it takes you :)
Anne Hauth
I'm Judy. I work with Liz. I also took the command seriously even though I don't have a google account.
Liz, you are amazing. Your courage and strength is unbelievable, yet your humor surfaces all the time. Still think you should write a book. You have a talent so think about sharing your story.
I'm here for you in whatever way I can offer support. You name it!
I'm Judy. I'm work with Liz and honoring the mandate. Typed a comment just a few minutes ago and don't know where it went, so here's try number 2.
Liz, you are truly amazing. Your courage and strength is unbelievable, yet your humor flows despite all that you need to handle. Still believe you should write a book. You have a wonderful talent so share your story with the world.
I'm here for you, in whatever way I can offer you support-just name it.
Ok-now I'm embarrased. Both my comments showed up. Oops. Liz, anyway to erase one? There is always someone out there that just doesn't get it and this time it's me. So much for being anonymous.
Sorry,
Judy-again.
I am signing in for the Walsh family in California (Liz and I went to high school together - actually, we were in the same class at Vis for a few years in grade school as well) and really I just love the whole Hewitt and Edwards clan. I am always amazed by your posts - I find myself reading and re-reading them and marveling at the honesty with which you write. Can't wait to see you and the whole family this summer.
love Deirdre (Cutter) Walsh
Hi Liz,
I'm Clio and Eleri's grandma. I've been reading your blog from the start. I say a prayer for you each night and wish you the best. I was so relieved that you got a second opinion. It's scary to get cancer when you are relatively young.
I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in Jan. 2008, and I consider myself a lucky woman since I got by with "just" a hysterectomy.
I thoroughly researched cancer when my husband was diagnosed 6 years ago. I think that kept me from going crazy when (no fair) I got it, too.
Today, my husband and I are doing well. Through all of this, I've learned that life has its ups and downs, and I try to go with the flow.
Barb P.
Hi all, I'm Sharon and I hired Liz to be the Alumnae/i Coordinator at Visitation. I knew immediately how fortunate Vis was to have Liz. If you know Liz, you know that "good" is not good enough. While working only part time, she held herself to full time expectations. She made me try harder. She lives & breathes the Visitation charism of gentle strength. I am so proud of her, as a person and as a professional colleague. You've got it all in spades, Liz. God bless.
Hi Liz...It's Inez (Buursema)'89 Avery down in childcare land at VIS...when I first heard of your blog and went to it, I was intrigued by the title "Suck it,cancer"...from then on, I knew you had the right attitude for this fight....cancer had to suck it many times in my family past and present, so I am a firm believer in the course you are taking...it all sucks, every last detail, but one day (and who knows when that day will come) YOU will be the person blogging into another person's journey for victory!!!!
This is Jane ( Gina's Mom). I am a nurse and I've met you thru Gina and know you are there to support her often and this means alot to her and Tim. Beacause of this I feel I know you too! Your blog helps me be a better nurse to others who are going thru tough battles. You should write a book as your blog has been so helpful and creative and inspiring.
Apologies in advance if this shows up twice! I clicked “publish” several hours ago, but I do not see my response here. Trying again now!
Okay, I’ll answer your questions…
1. I am Lisa Dahl
2. I met Liz when we both worked at Skyview Middle School. So we maybe met about ten years ago?? We both stopped working there around the same time to spend time at home with our girls. Laila was born about seven months before my daughter Anna.
3. Do I have a cancer story of my own to tell? Yes, many. Among my family and friends, cancer is a much-too-familiar enemy. I have stories of remission and stories of loss. My daughter Anna headlines my list. Anna (02.22.05 – 03.28.08) was diagnosed with stage IV neuroblastoma four days after her second birthday and died after thirteen months of constant battle. Liz (and many other Skyview friends) showed up for me, prayed, brought gifts, called and emailed, and made countless shows of support.
Liz—it continues to be a privilege to be a part of this process with you. I was extremely happy the day I learned you were declared in remission. Very good news! I also know there are more parts to this. Becoming a part of the cancer community is a permanent becoming… nobody who has ever faced cancer goes all the way back to becoming un-diagnosed. Establishing your new normal is a difficult process, and I think your honest approach to these days is very wise.
I'm James of the Dougherty Clan. Anne and I share this login - to save money on expensive google accounts.
I've known Liz since kindergarten, and Scott and I went to preschool together. After I introduced Scott and Liz to each other in 2nd grade - they immediately started dating and have been together ever since, so I have a little Cupid magic in me. I've known Laila since she was about a week old and Owen since he was about 3 weeks old - so I'm working on their love connections as I write.
Liz and I share a love for hard cider, which causes Scott to mock me.
While my knowledge of Liz and Scott may be a tad overstated, they are very important to me. I see them far less often than I would like. (actually - I'd like to live in their house - so maybe they are happy that it is less than I would like) I'm very thankful for the blog - since it gives me some sort of access to my favorite Hewitts.
Above all, I treasure making Liz laugh or smile in any way. Unfortunately, I stink at it. I'll keep trying though.
Nice meeting you all.
Hi Liz,
Cath Edwards says I have to respond. I am Cath's friend Kath Erbes. Cath and I have know each other for a very long time. She introduced me to the blog when it first began and I love the Laila and Owen stories. Now I am hooked on the site and check it often for updates.
It has been a hard road for all of you and I am so inspired with how you, Liz, are dealing with your cancer and in how many lives you have touched with your blog.. I am now hooked on your site as well! Thank you for allowing me to take a peek into your life, you and your family continue to be in my thoughts and prayers!
Hi Liz. I have been following your blog and am amazed at your spirit, your humor and your strength during such a difficult time. I have know you and your family for many years and considered myself blessed. As you and Heather ran back and forth between our homes, so did your mom Cathy and myself. We borrowed things, we visited, compared notes on our children and checked to see if the other had turned on the air conditioning.I remember you as a child, perfectly dressed, perfectly braided hair. I saw as your family grew, you became the big sister, willing-most of the time- to help and protect your siblings. I saw as you became a lovely young women with humor, intelligence and grace. And i saw you become a wonderful and loving mother. Though I don't get to see you as often, you are really always in my heart, as is your family.The memories and wonderful times we had all those years remain. Here's to making future memories. With love, Terry Terry momma
This is Stephanie Bryant-Lipp. I went to high school and college with Liz. Praying for her every day! I am a Nurse Practitioner in women's health, so I too have had many patient's in Liz's situation. Can't even imagine what you are going through Liz, but I think of you every day!
Hello! I'm Megan and I went to Vis with Liz and reconnected with her when she took on the direction of the Alumnae Board.
Cancer has played a huge role in my life (my mother, my grandmother, my aunt, my uncle, my cousin's daughter and on) and will continue to do so as I hope to specialize into oncology pharmacy after I finish pharmacy school next year.
Liz continues to inspire me, every day!
Hey, it was SO nice to meet all of you! I work with Liz's Mom at the Basilica and think Cathy's totally awesome, funny, real, and inspiring.
Some time ago, we were swapping "kids swearing stories" and she told me about Liz learning to use a knife. I hope it's okay if I share it now...maybe most of you have heard it...here goes...one day at the supper table when Liz was about 3, I think, she was having trouble cutting her chicken and said, "Come on, you little f***er!" I instantly liked Liz even though we've never met. (And neither of her parents had any idea of where she had heard that word. Really.)
My Mom, Gladys, in writing about her experience with cancer several comments above, also wrote about my experience with cancer. That time in our lives really sucked and I'm very, very happy that she is now cancer-free. I continue to get thorough screening each year and wonder when/if my time will come to join a club that I wish was a bit more exclusive.
Liz, I agree with Pop, get that book going. You're a terrific writer and I want to sincerely thank you for your blog. I hold you in my thoughts and prayer - your stories help me to try and keep a decent perspective almost daily. I could go on and on...but I won't. Keep Calm and Carry on!
Peace+
Kelli Kester
P.S. I just have to share that my word verification word is "swagness."
Hi Everyone! I know Liz and Scott through my brother David. I met Scott when I was in elementary school. He went to school with my older brother, David. I remember Scott coming over to our house when I was a kid. He has been a good friend for many years.
I met Liz several years ago and I always thought that she and Scott were perfect for each other. They are a wonderful couple and they have beautiful children.
I think about you and your family often. You are an inspiration Liz! May God Bless you and your family with good health, happiness and love!
Sincerely,
Colleen Barry
My name is Jennifer Miley and I worked with Liz at Skyview Middle School several years ago. I admired you Liz when you came back to work and then knew you wanted and needed more time with your family. I wish I had something witty to say, as you always do...but the truth is that I read because you inspire me. Not funny, just the truth.
Hello! I am a follower through Gina (we were college buddies at St. Kate's). I actually followed your blog with your children prior to this (we have children of similar ages). You and your family are always in my prayers!
Hello Liz,
Emily Mohn checking in :)
Scott and my mom Tammy are cousins.
I've enjoyed reading everyone's comments about who they are!
We love you Liz, Scott, Laila and Owen. We are praying for you all the time.
Hi Liz. You don't know me. I am good friends with Gina Alexander and she shared your story with me a few months back. I am touched by your story; by the candor with which you tell it; the humility you show in sharing very inimate details about your life; the irony of getting to know so much about someone who knows nothing about me in return. I pray for you and for your family, that you regain your strength, that you never lose your sense of humor, and that you remember how very many people are praying for you.
God Bless,
Barb Thukral
Hi Liz, I am Angela (Wier) Sieber. I know you from VIS
Cancer has come into and out of my life in many ways whether it is an aunt with breast cancer, father with bladder cancer, and me with skin cancer.
I began to follow your blog when a friend of mine (another VIS grad) let me know about your story. I finally figured out how to add a RSS feed to my igoogle home page and wait with anticipation to see if Liz has blogged anything new every day. (no pressure) I find your blog very inspiring (yes, even the crabby Liz post) and use the message in your blogs at work. My work has nothing to do with the medical field, but I find the messages in your blogs can be applied to life in general.
Stay strong. I am praying for and thinking of you often.
Liz,
Jen sent this link to me. In a twisted way I enjoy reading this because I never knew what my father was going through when he was battling cancer. He always said things were good or fine when I knew he was hurting. Don't let it win.
Mark Arriola
This is Pa. I have the most wonderful daughter. Some of you may know her. She writes a couple of popular blogs. I am also in her employ, being responsible for the corruption of her children ( or was that care of the children ).
Hi Liz. We met just one time at the Crows house for a game night. The girls rocked! We talked blogs that night, before this one ever started. I read your blog so my family can pray for you (and so I don't have to keep asking Christina how you're doing). Continued blessings and peace after you're done being angry.
Hi, I'm Tracy and I've been a fan of Liz since high school, too. I've been inspired by the way you've kicked cancer's tail and they way you've written about your experience, Liz.
My name is Kerry Peterson & I work with Scott at UHC & have worked with him at HealthParnters. I am the one who has called Scott, "loser" on a regular basis. In my defense, I suffered years of torture sharing a cube wall with him and him throwing things over the wall at me, including a rubber chicken. I don't know how you do it, you must be a Saint :)
But really, I follow the blog to see how you are doing & wishing you all the best. There has been too many folks in my life who have suffered from breast cancer. Such courageous women.
Anyway, I
Hi Liz,
This is Patty, the trusty piano teacher at VIS! Thanks for sharing your journey in such an honest way---I am glad to see your sense of humor is intact!! We all send positive thoughts and prayers to you and your family. I hope you have a great summer, full of healing, laughter and love. Who else is going to keep those rowdy Alums in line???!! Keep fighting the good fight,
Patty McPherson
Hi Liz! I'm Brigid Ryan-Ling. I went to Vis but was a few years younger than you. I receive your emails from Vis, and I am friends with Anne Dougherty. After hearing your name during special intentions at Nativity's 9:30 mass one morning, I checked in with Anne on what was going on, and she told me about your cancer diagnosis. We have been praying for you since. Your strength, your honesty, your raw emotion...all amaze me, and you are a visible witness to us all of a strong woman/mother/daughter/friend. Thanks for sharing your story.
Hi, I'm Courtney... I haven't seen Liz in years and years, but we've known each other forever, since her mom used to work with my dad.
Liz, your blog is awesome, hilarious, and heartbreaking. I'll keep praying for you.
Hey Liz- It's cousin Annie. My mom & I have been following your blog for a while now & love your sense of humor through all of this.
As for cancer- you know Auntie S. had it, and I got rid of my cervical cancer last year, hopefully for good.
You have been an inspiration for me and have helped me to remember that anything "could always be worse."
Hi everyone,
I am Liz's sister Mags and I am responding because Liz's comment made it very clear that EVERYONE has to. I have been following the blog and checking it especially when I want to know what is happening but am sure that everyone (ok mostly Liz) is tired of talking about it.
Liz, you're pretty much the awesomist ever. That is not a real word. I don't care.
Hello everyone. This is Laura Domyancich. I met Liz many years ago when I was first invited to Sunday family dinner by her sister. Soon after, the Edwards and Hewitts became my family. Although I don't get to see all of them as much as I'd like to, they continue to have a special place in my heart. I cherish reading the blogs, though doing so at work usually leads to whisking away tears or stifling laughter.
Liz, I have always looked up to you (even though you are shorter and younger than I am.) You are an inspiration to so many people evidenced by all of the responses to your post. Love you.
I have been following along since the beginning. Liz, your gracious sharing of this journey is to be admired. When reading, which you do with humor and raw emotion is a gift you have given the many, many that keep your entire family in their thoughts and prayers. Thank you for allowing and inviting your friends and family to connect with you. You are a beautiful woman inside and out. NavarrC-Scott will know what that means.
Hi Liz,
I went to Saint Mary's with you and know you through Anne and James Dougherty. Anne is also how I heard about this blog. My mom had breast cancer in her milk ducts. Luckily it was caught right away and she has been cancer free for about 4 years.
It is wonderful that you are sharing your story. I hate to say that I enjoy reading your blog because of course this is a very difficult time. But I also can read in between the lines and am very impressed with your spirit and willingness to fight. I think of you and your family often and wish you all the best!
Meredith Johnson McGuffage
Wow. I just read all those comments and I am so impressed. You're some hot s***. Though we knew that already. I am late to comment--the last week of the school year, a week-long intensive grad class, and the first week of summer school will do that to you. But here I am on my long weekend, and I had to catch up on your blog! I'm Elissa, also a Vis girl class of '94 and long-time fan of Liz. So impressed by this blog and the ways you're creating something amazing out of what you're going through, that is obviously touching so many people. Myself included. Proud of you for telling cancer to suck it. So there.
Oops, I'm a little on this task, but better late than never right? Anyway, I went to Vis but was a couple of years ahead of you. Not sure how I really knew you...but I did. A Vis friend of mine told me about what was happening with you and told me you had a blog. I've been sucked in ever since. Your strength and courage and humor is amazing. Good for you to be your own advocate and trust you gut, I've seen things go wrong when people do not. My own daughter's life was saved because her doctor called my at 9pm one night on a "gut feeling". And oh, I will have a daughter in 1st grade at Nativity next year too. Stay strong and good luck with your writing, it'll be great!
Julie
Hi Liz, I know you through Elissa Nelson. We work together at Liberty High School. I was diagnosed with breast cancer a year ago. I went with the "body parts removed" option rather than chemo, etc. But I can totally relate to some of what you are going through. Your humor and positive attitude has been a great blessing! I wish you the best and will continue to keep up with you.
Kris Oster
Hi Liz, I know you through Elissa Nelson. We work together at Liberty High School. I was diagnosed with breast cancer a year ago. I went with the "body parts removed" option rather than chemo, etc. But I can totally relate to some of what you are going through. Your humor and positive attitude has been a great blessing! I wish you the best and will continue to keep up with you.
Kris Oster
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