| March 2007 Healing Companion |
The Rennekamp Family ~ Kari Ann
| A Cherished Friend |
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| Maggie Mae |
| My cancer journey began 4 weeks after delivering my 3rd daughter. It started with a sore throat and a lump on the side of my neck that I was sure was just from the hormone changes my body was experiencing. I did not pursue any medical treatment until I began to have trouble swallowing. I went to see my family practitioner that immediately asked me if I had ever heard of Lymphoma. He proceeded to make an appointment for later in the week to see a surgeon. The surgeon performed a needle biopsy, which was suspicious for cancer. He then went on to do a Lumpectomy to attempt to get the tumor out or get a better sample, but was a little nervous because of its size and also because it was so close to my carotid artery. The biopsy was successful – they got it all! I was so relieved, but devastated when we got the results back and it diagnosed me with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma – Nodular Sclerosing type. I was referred to an oncologist who performed a bone marrow biopsy and scheduled me to get a port placed. I then began 12 chemotherapy treatments. I experienced complete hair loss, extreme fatigue along with other side effects. I felt like I was outside myself watching myself go through this. It is like a fog wrapped me up and consumed me. I experienced guilt, loss, confusion, fear and intense support. I mourned the fact that I was not being the best mother to my newborn daughter, but knew I had much support and that she would be fine. My other children were 6 and 4 at the time. I completed all treatments and repeat studies indicated I was cancer free in April of 2004! What a relief. What a life altering experience. Sometimes I am very grateful for my cancer journey, because it has grounded me. My priorities are clear. I found my passion for helping others. Through my cancer journey, I found peace…I found myself and realized what I was really made of. I began a career as a Patient Support Service Coordinator for a small community based oncology center. I support those who struggle with their illness and their families. I am now also pursuing another life’s dream of owning a Goldendoodle and training it to be a therapy dog. That is all thanks to Andrea and Jeff Brewer for their incredible compassion for others. They desire to have their dogs “heal” others through their unconditional love. I am honored to be the first person to receive a Goldendoodle under their new program to give back to the cancer community. Maggie Mae will be cherished and help so many others once she completes her training. Remember, If God brings it to you…He will see you through it! God Bless – Kari Ann |
