Pre Surgery for lumpectomy 8/19/25
Update 1 (8/23/25): Surgery & Milk Duds
Great News!
My surgery on 8/19 was a success!
The cancerous tumor was removed with clear margins—meaning the surgeon not only got all the visible cancer, but also took out a buffer of healthy tissue to make sure nothing was left behind. While I was under anesthesia, a lymph node biopsy was performed. Breast cancer often spreads first to lymph nodes near the armpit, and by using a special dye/tracer, the surgeon could identify whether the cancer had spread.
Thankfully, only one lymph node needed to be removed—and the pathology came back NEGATIVE for spread. Hallelujah!
Because the node was a little deeper than expected, my recovery will take a bit longer, but the results make every ache worth it. I’m doing my best to rest, though the start of school next week feels overwhelming. Honestly, I’d love a summer do-over! A huge thank you to those who have provided meals—your kindness has lifted such a burden during recovery.
Milk Duds
Cancer is serious, but laughter is still medicine.
At my very first consultation, the surgeon explained that breast cancer begins in the milk ducts. I was overloaded with medical terms, and all I could think was, “Why is she talking about movie theater candy right now?” When I asked her about it, we all shared a huge laugh.
So on surgery day, I handed her a little gift—an 8-pack box of Milk Duds. Yep, I actually did that! She told me they disappeared fast. Count it a win!
What’s Next
Although my cancer is Stage 1, it’s an aggressive type. The best approach will be chemotherapy followed by radiation.
• Surgery and radiation: target the tumor site directly.
• Chemotherapy: treats the whole body, lowering the chance that microscopic cancer cells spread or return.
In about two weeks, I’ll meet with my oncologist (my “Medicine Doctor”) to map out the plan. Chemo will be the toughest and longest phase, but I’m ready to face it head-on.
How You Can Help
I’m exploring options to reduce side effects:
• Cold mitts & booties to protect my hands and feet from nerve damage (neuropathy).
• Cold cap therapy to help reduce hair loss. Unfortunately, this isn’t covered by insurance and costs about $11,000 (equipment, dry ice, and trained staff to apply it).
Prefer to donate directly? You can send support through:
• Venmo:
• Paypal:
Your prayers, friendship, and support mean the world to us. We were blown away by your love and generosity. We are deeply grateful to have you walking this journey alongside our family.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” – Romans 8:18
Original Post: Help Mir Lashbrook Beat Breast Cancer
This summer, I received life-changing news: I have Stage 1 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, an aggressive form of breast cancer that will not respond to hormone therapy.
As a homeschooling mama of two boys, Ezra (14) and Ethan (12), and wife to my faithful husband of nearly 24 years, Noah, my summer days were supposed to be filled with family time and intentional rest. Instead, my calendar is now filled with surgery dates, chemo schedules, and radiation plans.
What’s next:
• Surgery: Tuesday, August 19
• Followed by several rounds of chemotherapy
• Then radiation therapy to ensure the cancer is gone
Doctors expect it will take about one year for me to return to “normal” life.
My heart in all this
Many of you know my faith in Jesus is the foundation of my life. He is my Rock and my Strength. Even in the midst of this trial, I have peace that surpasses all understanding and trust that He will sustain me. “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He; I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you” (Isaiah 46:4). Your prayers mean the world to me — please keep them coming.
Why we need help
Cancer impacts every part of life — emotionally, spiritually, physically, and financially. Even though it was caught early, the costs are overwhelming.
Your generosity will help with:
• Medical expenses not covered by insurance
• Healthy meals during recovery
• A tutor for our boys when I can’t teach
How you can help
1. Pray — for healing, strength, and peace for our family.
2. Give — every contribution, big or small, helps lighten our load.
3. Share — please pass this along to others who may want to stand with us.
Prefer to donate directly? You can send support through:
Venmo:
Paypal:
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your love, kindness, and encouragement. Together, we can walk this road — and I truly believe I will come out the other side stronger. To God be the glory!
With love and a bright smile,
Mir Lashbrook