#krististrong

A note from Kristi:

At the end of April, I was diagnosed with Stage 3a/b colorectal cancer - which for my personal case means the cancer has not spread anywhere else but is considered locally advanced. I completed 28 radiation treatments in June. There were some complications as my heart did not care for the chemo pill that was used to help maximize the radiation, but I was able to finish radiation with scans that showed a “significant interval response.” We're counting that as our 1st win!! I was able to rest up for most of July and had a port placed. At the beginning of August, I started chemo. My heart continues to disagree with the chemo meds, so we've had to continue to make adjustments. Unfortunately, this has made my treatment plan a “complicated case,” so I have a referral to Mayo Clinic at the end of September.

I am blessed beyond measure to have the absolute greatest support system in the world. My family has been nothing short of amazing. We have the most incredibly kind and caring friends. And my work family has been beyond supportive and gracious.

Those who know me, know I am incredibly competitive...so this cancer better watch out! I don't like to lose. They say nurses make the worst patients….I’m guessing I’ll continue to prove that theory right on more than one occasion over the next few months but I’m going to continue to BATTLE.