I'm 8 inches lighter...

I'm going to tell the end of this story first, then go back to the beginning. So let me start by saying, I don't have cancer! Beginning in December 2008, I went through 2 months of testing to determine whether I might have breast cancer. I had a mammogram, 2 ultrasounds and an MRI and finally in late January a doctor decided that what I had been feeling is an inflamed and out of place lymph node.

Those two months were emotionally and spiritually trying. I was facing the possibility of having the disease that took my mom's life and the anniversary of her death was in January. At the same time, we were dealing with many other sadnesses - my sweet Uncle Ralph's heart concerns, our dear friend Alex's declining health, the death of Chris' uncle Robert. Add to that some financial strain and the added cost of all of the tests! Without the relationship that I have with my Creator, I would have been a basket case. But I was so blessed to be able to pour out my heart to Him and I was able to see Him working in and around me in ways that confirmed that I wasn't alone. Chris was a tremendous support. We prayed together often and he was able to be at peace through it all as well. We kept the testing a secret for two reasons - 1) I thought that if I did end up having cancer, there would be plenty of time to discuss it with loved ones, and 2) our families have dealt with cancer for far too long and we didn't want anyone to move into a place of unncessary worry. A few of the tests that they did were in a Breast Center. The pillars in the parking garage were painted pink. there was Susan Komen merchandise in the office and pink ribbons were everyone. I felt such a burden to pray for every woman in the waiting room. There is such a strength and resolve in these women - something I truly admired in my mom during the 4 years she fought the disease. I decided then that if I had cancer and was going to face chemo anyway, I'd go ahead and donate my hair (which was ridiculously long) to Pantene Beautiful Lengths. This is an organization that creates wigs for women who are facing cancer and don't have the money to buy a wig.

Well, I found out the lump was not cancerous and I was faced with the decision of whether or not to donate my hair...took me a while to finally decide. I believe that God prepares us for events that are going to take place in our future...one of the things that helped me decide to do it was my sweet sister. We usually give each other Pink Ribbon merchandise for birthdays and Christmases. This year, Chrissy gave me a pink ribbon Chi for Christmas ( I love my Chi from my Chee! ) The Chi is super skinny - great for short hair styles. This week I decided to go for it!! I went to a new stylist on Friday and had her chop off 8-9 inches!! I think I need to play with styling it, but it's pretty cute. And hopefully the hair I lost will be put to good use. Long story, I know - here's the big reveal...







Chris says this last picture looks like I'm holding up a squirrel! :)

I should add that 8-9 inches didn't end up being near the amount of hair I thought it would be. So if you've considered donating, don't be afraid to go in and have your stylist measure your locks to see where your hair will fall once cut and styled. Locks of Love (wigs for children) does require 10 inches so that's something to keep in mind as well.