I Finished Chemo! (For Now...) + We Met With A Surgeon, Got A Wig & More
- Posted on 15 December, 2022
- T Part Wig
- By Anonymous
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We are Brian & Jessica, a married couple who started on a life-changing whole food, plant-based weight loss journey back in June 2018. In June 2022, our lives were flipped upside-down when Jessica was diagnosed with Stage 3 (possibly 4) ovarian cancer. We continue to share our adventures (highs, lows, struggles & everything in between) in following a plant-based diet while keeping you up-to-date on Jessica's cancer treatment.
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Jessica & Brian Krock
1720 Market St # 771902
Saint Louis, MO 63177
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NOTE: We are not doctors, dietitians or nutrition experts. The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Please consult with your doctor before changing your diet. (Read more at http://bit.ly/KrockDisclaimer)
Foreign hiding under my blanket I'm not going. I don't want to go. Oh it's too early, another chemo, it's the last chemo well, at least for now. Who knows what the future holds, but I got ta get up like I literally just woke up. Brian is already like up and getting ready and doing his thing, and I need to get up and get myself dressed it's time for outfit of the day. What are you wearing Brian, yes, he's wearing a nice flannel, I'm pretty sure he wore yesterday uh yeah, because I forgot my actual coat. I'Ve got my jacket. I don't have my actual coat, so I'm wearing my heavier flannel, underneath my jacket you're just dressing like a Minnesotan. They don't wear coats in this weather she's trying to stay warm for brief periods of time. I am wearing that somebody which I forgot her name, because I can't remember anything, but it's a very nice hat. This other thing that somebody else made us, but I meant to bring my peaf hat that matches this and I totally didn't grab it apparently and then I'm wearing my dinosaur shirt, because you guys love it so much, and I thought it might bring me cheer on My day of last final chemo treatment and my Mayo Clinic jacket and my pink shoes, I'm so fashionable, I'm wearing my Mayo Clinic shirt, oh yeah, so I'm all decked out all right. Okay, Brian is warming up the car and then I'm supposed to go outside. I don't know what time it is, but we were trying to leave here by like 6 20. for my 7am appointment. I was like maybe if we get there early, we'll get done early. So I don't know, I don't know if that'll work out, but either way we got ta drive there and park and all that feeling like celebratory today, um, I know like your last chemo treatment is often like. Oh yeah. Let'S do ring the bell and celebrate and all that I don't know, but I'm kind of just feeling like again, we don't know if this is really the last. I do feel like I've achieved something by doing six treatments and I'm going to get a break from chemo either way. So that's good um, but yeah, mostly I'm just thinking about how the next week's gon na suck and um. So maybe once I get through and I start feeling a little bit normal I'll feel a little bit more like celebrating or not not even celebrating, but just happy um, but now it's just like. I have that burden of oh yeah, like today, they're gon na inject. It in me, but I won't really start feeling bad for a couple of days and then um. You know it's a lot, but I guess I better go down and go get to Mayo Clinic foreign. I mean it's warmish, it's actually a lot warmer outside than it was yesterday so yeah, and by that I mean it's it's several degrees above what it was. It'S 28 degrees, as opposed to in the teens, but yep. Let'S go foreign foreign foreign foreign, just a little bit more to go. Yep got that right. There 28 minutes probably won't even take that long, maybe yeah it's usually they set it for a timer. But it's not like exact, I'm so tired yeah, but we still got more to do. But it looks like we're going to be done by 12 30., which is going to be awesome, which means we get to go to a surprise appointment that I didn't tell you guys about yep, so you guys are gon na enjoy. I think so I don't know. I feel like I cried a little bit earlier and they were like. Are you in pain like from my IV or whatever? I'M like? No, I'm just emotional, I'm just a wreck. It'S just. It feels weird to be at the end of this part of the journey. Um, but I don't know, I still have a lot a lot to go through in the next week or so, but it feels weird, but today's gone really smooth like today's been like Smooth Sailing one of the smoothest. Actually, we got this thing down, pat, sometimes I get stinging in my hands, but we switched to this hand and I haven't had any issues with that really um. So that's been nice and everything's just gone really quickly, yeah, so I've been taking notes on my phone. Writing down questions for the surgeon that we're gon na meet with uh yeah, I'm just tired yeah. I know, but we're almost through this part on to the next thing done just like that foreign, so uh. We we got here when the sun wasn't up 6 18 a.m, and now we are leaving when the sun isn't up. 6. 43 p.m and we are exhausted. We have a lot of information, a lot to process and so we're gon na go home and sleep. First then, we'll update you guys tomorrow, so uh keep watching the video. Yes keep keep watching. I may insert a commercial right here welcome back to Crocs in the kitchen. It'S not tomorrow from that previous now section of the video it's so we filmed that little segment because we were like oh crap. We forgot to film anything else that day because everything we were exhausted. Well, we were exhausted and everything became really heavy. That day, it was a lot of information. It was just it and after going through the chemo and already being in this really emotional state and weird state from that, and so we kind of crashed at the end of that day. And then, the next day we ended up driving home uh to St Louis, which is like seven hour drive and then the next day I started feeling like total crap from the chemo, and I just there was just no way I was gon na film like filming, Was the furthest thing from me yeah and I think that's just recovery mode well, and I think that kind of shows like people are always telling us, like. You know make sure you're taking time for yourselves and not like you know, even just friends and family, and you guys tell us that too, because it's it's hard doing this yeah, sometimes and like we love to share stuff with you as much as in we like To film stuff in real time as much as possible, but we also know when it's time to just be like nope, no cameras. So it's what is it like? I don't know 12 days later or something like yeah. It'S it's been about a week and a half since your last chemo treatment. Yes, you you've started to pull out of the chemo, Funk that you get into, which is is pretty great, but at the same time, she's kind of come down with a cold and she's still immunocompromised. So we're keeping an eye on that one and uh just trying to keep her immune system up. So we don't have to have an emergency of some kind uh, but he seemed to be doing okay, but we're we're keeping a close eye on how she feels uh to make sure that she is okay yeah. So you guys got to see a little sneak. Peek of my wig, yes uh at the very end of the last day that we were at Mayo Clinic that we were filming um. So I had actually gone and picked out a wig months ago and tried on a bunch of other ones and we'll do a separate video all about the whole wig process. But essentially I I pulled you guys on a live stream and everyone was kind of like well there's a lot. There are a few people who are just like no don't get a wig, and then there are a few people who are like yeah. Why not? I just decided to do it because my insurance would cover most of it, so I figured a lot of it most of insurance. A lot of insurance doesn't cover yeah, and so because I was able to do that. I I figured I might get a couple uses out of it and then I'll wash it and donate it to somebody who could really use it. Who really you know, will who can't who doesn't have insurance coverage that we'll we'll cover it. So it's a real nice wig, so I can gift it forward to somebody else. But uh, like I said, we'll do a separate video all about that. But after that we, the next appointment, was a meeting with a gynecologic oncologist. Who will be the surgeon that does my surgery? Yes, what surgery is that Jessica surgery? Here, let me show you, let's put all the names of all the surgeries that I will be having during this, this massive major surgery, so the main thing is kind of like there will be a hysterectomy yeah, which means they'll, remove the rest of my reproductive parts. Uterus uh ovary, my other ovary fallopian tube. I don't know whatever else junk is down there yeah they will remove all of that um, which is there's a lot that goes along with that. That'S kind of you know worrying me in the sense of feeling, like my Womanhood is being taken away or like some there's just a lot of I I don't really understand. What'S gon na happen, like, I know I'll be going through menopause at 37, which is insane to me, but we um the good thing. Is they actually have an appointment? I have an appointment coming up next week with a team that will kind of explain that side of it to me before I actually have the surgery, so the surgery itself is going to be a pretty major surgery, as in it is a major surgery. It'S not like hey, let's do some laparoscopic, like I'm gon na, have a huge cut. They'Re gon na cut down the middle of me, uh, at least from my belly button, on down possibly higher if they do stuff with the liver yeah there are. You want to talk about some of the risks that he told us so uh due to the fact that she had had a surgery. Previously they said that uh, the the surgeon said that there's a small chance that there could be an issue with her bowel and, if that's the case, they may have to essentially remove a small portion of it and recombine the two ends and wait what and give Her, yes, that's the entire point, because then, if, if that's the case, then they they attach the two points and then no no, no, no. She would have a colostomy bag then to to help that to where it'll, heal and she doesn't have to like, have anything going through that portion of the bowel. They also talked about possibly doing something to her ureter because, as you guys may remember, when she went through the surgery the first time they left a little bit of the cancer on her ureter, because if they were to cut more of it, they would have just Damaged her ureter, so the surgeon said that they they could possibly depending on what they find in there cut out that section move the bladder over and then reattach those yeah. I remember that on the plus side, though, which they're going to have a urologist there in the surgery as well, so they can put a stent in and do all of that kind of stuff, so Jessica doesn't have to deal with any of the stuff that she Had to deal with before when the first surgery happened, yeah, because my my other surgery, if they just put a stent in like during the surgery or a bit after it, I could have avoided weeks of pain and nausea and all kinds of problems with the hydronephrosis Of her yeah, my kidney, but they did which oh yeah I did have an ultrasound the other day on my kidney and they said: there's no hydromorphosis right now so, but we don't know what they're gon na find. He said, there's going to be a lot of probably scar tissue in there from my other surgery, which is going to complicate the surgery for sure um, but my risk for something like the clock like having a colostomy bag or something like that is it's small, very Small, but it's elevated greatly from a normal person person going into this surgery, because that mask that I originally had on the left side had grown into the um, my the outer layer of my bowel. So they don't know what they're going to find exactly when they go in there yeah um, and so he said you know, whereas a normal person's risk is like point something. Mine is like five to ten percent so, but if I do have to get that, it would only be temporary yeah, it would only be for a few months. It would not. I asked him like three times I was like it would not be permanent. He'S like no not be permanent, it would just be a temporary thing and that, but they are going to have me marked like. Is it a stoma or something I don't know, they're doing some kind of marking before the surgery, just in case um, but yeah the thing about the ureter he's like oh yeah, we'll just snip off a piece of the earth? Reconnect it to your bladder and just move your bladder. I was like you can do that you you've moved stuff around. I mean I guess I'll have a lot of extra space. I I even joked that, like that, that's the way my brain works. It'S not like a a physiological solution, but like a plumbing solution, it's like can't you just like cut this part cut that part and move it. Apparently you can so pretty much can like, like that. I just thought it was fascinating, but it, but so so it's going to be a big surgery. Um the the gynecologic oncologist, definitely told us all like told us all kinds of things. You know, like all the things that could potentially happen, but also kind of warning us that, because we still don't understand fully what's going on in the liver, there's a chance, they could remove all this and do like the debulking surgery and remove all the you know. Do the hysterectomy remove all this all the cancer that they can find in there? They might remove like some lymph nodes and stuff like that. But if the liver is involved, that's still going to be my problem like in the end you know and so um. You know there is a potential that the surgery could just be like yep. We did all this, but it didn't help. It'S still in your liver and you're screwed um, but with all of the uncertainty there is surrounding my liver, I feel like I have, if they're offering me the chance to do this surgery. I have to take it yeah because I feel they wouldn't do the surgery. If they were just thinking well, this is absolutely not going to help this girl at all, and I feel like if it was. You know if it's left in my hands, because we still have to have some more discussions, so the surgery is potentially scheduled for December 29th, but the surgeon, the gynecologic oncologist, is supposed to talk to the liver, surgeon and the liver. Surgeon has been like kind of out of pocket for the past several uh days week, whatever, and so we are meeting with a liver surgeon on in two days time less than two days time at this point, um to to get her opinion yeah and see. If there's any surgery that can be done on the liver, can they you know resect? Is that what it is yeah they respect some of the lesions, or is you know so the main doctor that we go to actually sent us a link to an article about uh possible benefits to uh doing a type of liver surgery to help with stuff? I don't understand it one bit and that's saying something: it is so above my level of understanding of physiology that I I I I don't even want to share it with you, because it just made zero sense to me. The gynecologic oncologists, the surgeon who will be doing that part of the surgery um the hysterectomy and stuff my takeaway is. He didn't seem too optimistic about the potential for me for her for for me to have surgery on the liver, but it's also not necessarily his. You know expertise, yeah, so and and at every turn, that not the normal thing has happened with us. So so I'm really curious to see what this liver surgeon has to say and get her way in um. They actually had me do after so we were. We met with the surgeon, we must have talked to the surgeon himself for like an hour and a half at least his nurse for another hour and an hour and a half or something um about just about all. They spent a lot of time and that's one really good thing about Mayo Clinic. They do spend a lot of time with you and um. I'Ve never felt rushed in any of my meetings with doctors there and they you know their job is to outline his job was to outline the war. You know here's here's, what potentially could happen from this surgery, here's all the risks involved and we don't even know if this is gon na help me in the end, but I believe it will yeah. I believe that this is the right path, so uh. So then, after that was done, I had an MRI scheduled because they wanted to get an updated MRI before I meet with a sliver surgeon this week. So that was on that same day that we I had. We were up at 6, 30 and or well. We were up at like five something and I had chemo and then I had so it was chemo and then we went to the wig place. Then we went and met with a surgeon. Then we went to the MRI like we were at Mayo Clinic for over 12 hours and um the MRI. Basically just the result for the MRI was kind of like very similar to what my previous MRI in October was. Maybe things had shrunk a little bit, but there wasn't anything groundbreaking from that ever yeah. So we got all that done. We got all this information. We'Ve got a path going forward, uh right now and we've got a lot of meetings to do heck. We'Ve got we're. Actually, leaving tomorrow to drive back to Rochester - and I have I think, seven or eight appointments between now and when they're gon na do the surgery. I have like another ultrasound and some like several things of blood work and then meeting with the anesthesiologists and all that, like there's just a lot and a lot going on. I'M honestly, I think, I'm kind of in denial that it's happening like the surgery is potentially going to be happening in a couple of weeks. Um. The way that we left it off with the gynecologic oncologist was that he would talk to the liver surgeon after she weighed in based on, like you know, all the my latest scans and get her opinion and then called me back and we'd have another big discussion Before we like 100, confirm that we're moving forward with this surgery, but with the liver surgeon being out like, I don't think they've had time to talk yet so, but we'll be talking to her on Thursday. So it's it. I'M kind. We'Re kind of in this really uncertain place where it's like. We think this is happening, but we're not 100 sure this is 100 happening, but it's looking like I'm like 98 sure I'm in denial. It'S looking like we're gon na spend New Year's Eve at Mayo, Clinic yeah, also one more thing and then we're gon. Na close. This video out, I forgot to tell them about my fall risk yeah, so uh when she went to get the MRI they asked her. The question you know: oh, have you fallen like what was it within the last week or so within the last week. Have you Finn? I was like put my mask down and I showed my face do this, which, by the way, look at how great my face is healing yeah it's coming up very very nicely. The bruises is gone. It still hurts a little down here, but he's got a little bit of thing right there on your chin and and like a little bit of redness on your lip yeah. But it's been healing very nicely, but anyway the lady was asking that I explained how I had fallen and she's like let's just go ahead and put this on you, and so I actually just left it on, because I thought it was so funny because - and I Just think it's great I'm true. It'S very. I am a father in general, nothing to do with cancer or chemo or any of that I'm just a fall risk in general, because I'm a clumsy person yeah also. You know I fell for you uh, but yeah. So we got a lot of stuff coming up here. We got a lot of things. Uh planned got videos to post recipes that we want to get out as well. We got a new, exciting things that are happening into the new year, even that are planned out for the good bit going forward. All that to say we're going to close out this video now uh, because we're not going to get into any of that stuff until until those videos are coming out but subscribe to the channel, if you haven't done so already click the Bell. That is right. Next to it, you'll get notified whenever we post a new video, especially if you guys really do want to keep track of this, because we're going to make content as as it comes up as long as she is capable of doing so. Uh also find us on social media, Facebook and Instagram, and you can probably follow on because Jessica will probably be posting little Snippets and videos and stuff there as well, but I think that's all I got that's. Definitely all I got. We will see you next time on Crocs in the kitchen bye foreign
Comments
Krocks In The Kitchen: Check out other videos related to my cancer journey: https://bit.ly/KrockCancerJourney Follow along for more updates here: https://www.gofundme.com/jessicakrock
Claudia: Thank you for all that you do. This may sound weird but what you are doing is an invaluable public service. Years from now, you'll look back on these videos and realize all the good you've done. Your honesty has touched (and will continue to touch) the lives of countless people you will never meet. It really goes beyond words. There's something truly groundbreaking about what you are doing.
Linda Polston Jeffords: Brian is one special man. He has been with you every step of this journey. God Bless you both
Gibby: Here’s one thing to celebrate for certain—the beautiful relationship you two have! If everyone were so happily married the world would be a far better place! Treasure it and never take it for granted.
Linda Polston Jeffords: Babygirl you are beautiful without a wig. Your beauty comes from within you.
bhinsch25: You guys are adorable. I wish you all the best.
Rhonda Gage: That darling wig will keep the noggin warmer for sure ! You both are doing a great job with what most can’t even imagine( one of the hardest things is heading to a hotel instead home when you feel terrible ) so hats off to you for maintaining a strong onward direction! I totally believe it is all going to work out . Godspeed , keeping you in prayer.
Susan Kelty: Love that you kept the “fall risk” bracelet on! my husband enjoyed wearing his for months after a fall from our fruit tree resulted in broken hip surgery. Humor will get you through ☮️✌
Ti Va: No matter what surgeon has to remove, don't worry about that. Your main concern right now is survival. Don't waste your energy on doubting your womanhood or stoma bag, right now you have to put all your energy into survival. And I know you will. You and your husband are very precious people and you will fight this and later enjoy all good things life will bring your path. You guys are loved by many! Don't you forget that! ❤️
Kelly Weber: Hi Jessica and Brian Thank you for the update. Being a cancer survivor myself, you got this!! Look at how far you’ve come! I also had a very rare case of cancer. I had a gulf ball size tumor in my sinus cavity that was a form of lung cancer!! Who in the world gets lung cancer in their sinus cavity?? I did and there is only a very small percentage in the world. But I made it…. 7 years cancer free!! You got this Jessica and keep the fight going ❤
CK: I love that Brian is wearing the Mayo Clinic shirt. My dad loved wearing his medical center gear (usually t-shirt and cap) when he went for treatments. Sending you lots of love. I really appreciate your videos. I have a chronic illness that I get an infusion therapy for and it always really bums me out. I totally relate to Jessica under the covers trying to hide from it!
tgooding: It sounds like you’ve done a deep analysis to the best of your understanding and you’ve made a decision that you can both be comfortable with. I will be thinking of you and praying for you, and of course, watching your videos, all through this.
Susan Anderson: I hope all goes well with the surgery. BTW, if you are in MN next week, it’s going to get cold. Don’t forget winter coats, hats, gloves, etc. I’m a native and I’m already mentally preparing for single digits and below zero temps. Brr!
Julie Connell: Congrats on finishing your chemo for now-- well done. i hope you can get back to feeling like yourself w/no post chemo emo slump. Cute purple hat you were wearing in chemo. Sending prayers and positive thoughts for your surgery. i think it's good news too that you are having the surgery and so many experts taking care of you.
Kathy Balcom: Sounds like a very encouraging plan! Glad you took the time to heal both physically and mentally. So much to process. Wear the wig, you may be surprised, it was the one thing that made me feel more like myself, especially in the cold winter months. Praying for you both to have the strength to continue on this journey,
Rebecca Zahn: Bryan is a wonderful example of the character in an amazing man. Jessica’s spirit is so lovely and honest. Love sent to you both. ❤
Charlene Heiland: Waiting g to see wig in actual use. The little tease looked great. Fall damage has healed great !!! The fall risk bracelet was a chuckle maker. Long tiring day(s,,) will be worth it in the end.Peace, love and prayers. Grandma H
Patrise Henkel: FWIW I had a sudden and total hysterectomy at age 42, and was pretty freaked out. But I had a good (female) gyn who made sure I got onto hormone replacement, which was a lifesaver for me, in terms of energy and mental health. (I weaned off in my 50s) Once recovered I felt better than I had before, since my ovaries had been malfunctioning and hormones were erratic. I know it's fairly terrifying at some level , but I learned that people I don't even know will take very good and careful care of me. Which let me trust the process more. I'm praying for you.
Mary Blais: Wow Brian you are the man!! Your knowledge of medical terms during this journey is incredible! I have worked in med field x 40 yrs and your comprehension is impressive!
Jami Theresa Williams: It's so good to see you both. Way to go Jessica ♥️♥️
Jackie Mckinley: You're such a lovely sweet couple and I am so sorry this is happening to you I can't help wondering why the nicest people always seem to get all the shit things happening to them anyway I really hope the surgery is successful and I'm sending you lots of love and positive energy X
Craftlover 9: I had a radical hysterectomy at 42 and because I had such horrendous periods due to endometriosis, suffered with major depression each month.. after the hysterectomy I never felt better. It did throw me into the change of life and I did have night sweats for a while but that was it. Depression lifted because of less hormonal fluctuations and for me it was the best thing that ever happened to me. I miscarried in my younger years and was never able to have children so that I struggled with for a while but I accepted that it wasn't to be in my life. It did not change anything in my womanhood so to speak. I truly wish you the best!!
Suzanne Schulz: Prayers to you both. You'll do great with surgery. Brian, please take care of your health and wellness too.
Melissa Shelton: I had a hysterectomy at 25, zero regrets! I went through menopause in my early thirties and while it was rough, once you get passed it, things are great! Prayers for a successful surgery and recovery!
Sheri Pride: I had an abdominal hysterectomy with Salpingo-oophorectomy and went through menopause at 43 due to severe endometriosis. Even though i had abdominal surgery, it’s nothing compared to what you will be having. The hardest part about menopause will be hot flashes. I will certainly be praying for you as you go through this surgery♥️
Wendy A: That was very emotional. As a retired nurse, the shot of Jessica walking with her IV pole during the last chemo just filled me with love and compassion. You are looking so much better at the end Jessica and your face healed up beautifully! Sending you a big hug, love and prayers for a good report regarding your liver and a successful surgery. Prayers for you to Brian. It is so hard to watch a loved one suffer.
Jeannie H: Blessings and prayers to you both during this journey. ❤️❤️
Margo Susanna: I was told looong ago the the liver can repair itself. I hope everything goes great & they get everything ❤️ And the wig looks beautiful I love the highlights in it.
Stephaine Rose: I am sending love and prayers stay strong you're amazing you've got this!
Lillylou11: I had cervical cancer at 25 and at 27 had a complete hysterectomy. It was so emotional even though I had 2 small boys at the time. I felt like I wasn't going to be a real woman anymore and so many other emotions. Girl once I healed and I did do hormones due to my age and future bone issues. Not having a period is AMAZING. Lol all those emotions about not being a real woman go away. Ik you don't have children but there are so many options these days that you can still be a mom. In 2020 I became very sick ended up with endocarditis, mersa phenomena and super high fevers 107 at times. I died at 1 point ended up in a coma for a month , had 2 open heart surgeries in 6 months spent 4 months in the hospital straight was on a vent for 3 month 32 days into being on the vent I had to get a trech. Very traumatic had a 2% survival prognosis my dr had no hope with the 1st open heart. He honestly only did it to say he tries everything and gave me every chance to live. I am so happy he took the risk because it paid off. I had everything done at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. Ik how scary all this is how traumatic, emotional, exhausting, depressing and just bull shit being sick is. Keep faith and hope know your not alone and so many people are praying for you. I am here watching and happy you finishes finished chemo that's a huge deal!! Follow your heart and love life to the fullest. Feel free to hit me up can give you my email if you ever wanna just talk or someone to listen that understands what's your going through. I send all my love and strength to you.
P J Gahner: Big Hugs & Prayers. I had complete (what I call Radical) hysterectomy at Mayo in Dec 2009 similar open tummy - I call it my Zipper Scar (they did NOT find cancer in me). I cannot say enough Great Things about Mayo Surgical. Biggest thing I can offer is listen to the after care rest it really did take a LONG TIME to feel stronger. Again sending good vibes and prayers.
Wellness Sarah: I can tell Brian has his hope back and that’s great to see!!! Keep it up, you both are doing great
Diane Blake: I am so very proud of you!! You are a real inspiration. Sending you both virtual hugs!!!
randoms things and stuff 92: I can't get over you guys' strength and optimizm that you guys are showing through all of this. We're all rooting for you and praying for you both.
pdecorsey: You two are precious! You are loved around the world.❤
Holly Pietrobono: You guys are in my prayers! Prayers being said! “By His stripes you were healed”❤
Dana Caro-herman: Stay strong Pumpkin, praying for you ♥️
Cjane Burr: Prayers for an excellent surgery outcome. I love your idea of regifting your wig.
Crickette Bennett: I just needed to say...I have had Ovarian Cancer for 7 years now. I decided not to do any surgery. It still amazes me how wonderfully different we all are. We each get to make the right choice for our own bodies and life. I am so very proud of you for making your own choices. We all set our own path. Stay strong you are helping so many others who have just started walking this path.
Becky Webb: “I fell for you!” How sweet! I know you two seemed like a close couple before this, but it pales in comparison to how you are now. Very sweet to see the love and care you have for each other. And what a cute wig!!!
Betsy Slat: The two of you are the dynamic duo! I have so much respect for you both. Prayers lifted up.❤
Life Well Loved: Ovarian cancer is definitely no-joke. Prayers they get it all and everything works out.
P. Austin Heaton: I, for one, liked the wig. It looked really natural on you. Sending prayers and hugs for you both and hoping/praying for a successful surgery. I'm going to think positive like Brian.
Chasing WoW: I have a hysterectomy due to Uterine Cancer. Your fears are all valid and Yes I suggest having a therapist on stand bye to work through those feeling of loosing hormones/childbirth ect. I was cery depressed about 6 months afterward and it hit me so hard. I think it is partially holding everything in for so long. I am here if you ever need to talk!♡
Sherry Lenser: You are smiling Jessica, and being able to laugh at yourself . That’s your strength right there. Oh and not to forget to mention that Brian is your ROCK !
Mary Amory: Jessica, keeping you both in prayer. Your face is healing so nicely. When you smile,you are radiant. Looking at you, it is so difficult to fathom all that you are going through. Both of you are an inspiration. Your love for each other is so evident and beautiful. I am humbled just listening to the both of you and seeing how you have chosen to deal with it.
Cigel: I wish I could take away y'all's suffering somehow. know that we're listening and that we're rooting for you on this unimaginably difficult and scary time in your lives
Melissa: I use to clean theses rooms. I loved working on the Chemo floor. I meet so many wonderful and loving patients. God bless you both!❤ prayers continuing!❤️.
Just Stuff: Sending prayers and stay hopeful. It is wonderful you have great care at Mayo Clinic. Merry Christmas to you both
Random Amanda: Just FYI: when my surprise cancer diagnosis happened last year and I went to MAYO, they had me fully prepped for a permanent colostomy bag. Had me talk to stoma nurses and everything. I was in shocked tears! Then, (this is what I LOVE about MAYO), my surgeon met with some brilliant 35 year old robotic genius, and they decided together they could save my rectum! And that’s exactly what they did! Colostomy bag free over a year later! If I had gone anywhere else, I’d have a whole different life right now! Praise God for the humbleness of the MAYO docs and surgeons!
Marsha Morrell: I have no colon and did the colostomy bag for 4 months. Do not fret about that part. You've got this.
r. richardson: You are so fortunate to be going to the Mayo Clinic- they sound awesome there. Your fall-risk wrist band is funny . Thanks for outlining your upcoming surgery. You look so much better with the bruises gone Jessica ❤
Chris Cox: Hi guys. I’ve been following your journey because it somewhat mirrors my own. I’ll have my last chemo on the 29th. I had basically your surgery back in the middle of Oct. I had a small bowel resection because they thought the cancer had maybe caused a polyp on it but turns out it hadn’t spread to the intestines. Fortunately I didn’t need an ostomy bag. Just a couple of things to think about. Ask if they are doing staples? My Dr didn’t like staples so I lucked out. A thin beautiful line just above my belly button. He even went around it when he made the cut. Lol I don’t know how they’ll do you but I didn’t get any food to eat for at least four days not counting the day before surgery when you can’t eat anything. I was so whiney. Ask about an epidural too. It really helps with the pain.
Janet Driscoll: Thoughts and prayers through your journey. Love the wig.
Rhonda Kay Jones: Sending love and prayers to you both. After my colorectal cancer surgery in 2021 (lower anterior resection) I had an ileostomy for 4 months before it was reversed. I know you may be worried about the possibility of this, and I know it sounds very scary, but it honestly turned out to not be so awful once I got the hang of it.
Vicki Buescher: Prayers. Wow it’s almost like I’m reliving my whole chemotherapy journey. They did mine opposite of yours. I had surgery first. They cut my from stem to sternum. I did get 1/3 of my liver cut off. Keep positive. I live in stl and we have met. If you need to talk to a survivor or just want to chat. I’m here for you!
Marydeth Judge: You guys are the most loving couple and have a tremendous bond. His support for you is amazing! I am praying for you and your healing and hope that you have faith because that will help you get through this even better. The wig looks fabulous on you but your beauty comes from within.
Judith Finelli: Much love to both of you! You have jumped out of YouTube and into my prayers and heart. I hope always for the best possible outcome. I am so grateful and touched you have shared yourself so openly.
Shari Z: I agree, Brian. I think this will help!❤
Lori: Jessica you are a rockstar!!!! Brian you are a very special person! Sending you both hugs and prayers! "You Got This"
tgooding: Had a hysterectomy at the age of 46… I think… About two years after my husband passed away. It was giving me so much trouble, and I didn’t even have cancer. I just had polyps and cyst and endometriosis, and let me tell you I do not miss that mess. I felt like a new person afterwards with that worrisome and 23 pounds of extra weight gone from my lower abdomen. I was never one to set score by having kids so I didn’t have much fall out from that. I am now almost 60 and I would take early menopause over how ill I was back then any day. No regrets for me. I hope it’s the same for you and that you feel nothing but better and relieved and more cancer free after the surgery. Hi, got the cut from my belly button on down and even though I’m overweight now you can barely see that scar. It’s more just like a line in my skin and it’s in a part of my body. I would never show anyone else but my husband anyways.
Eilene Cameron: You guys make such a wonderful team. Even though you are the one going through all of the physical pain and suffering Jessica. Bryan really seems to do a great job of supporting you and making sure you’re not going through it alone. ❤
Judy G: I'm glad you get a break from your Chemo after this . Saying prayers for you I Loved the wig...It looked very natural. I am Hopeful for you that things soon take a positive turn on your beating your cancer. Stay Positive & Never Give up Hope!
Sue O: What a beautiful couple! You are doing so much for your viewers. Both of you are such an inspiration. Prayers and love being sent from Pittsburgh. I too BELIEVE.
Nuclear Chick: Thanks for the update. The down mood on chemo morning was palpable. That was for both of you, not just Jessica. It must be just awful . I was so happy to see your regular upbeat moods return at the end. Cute wig. I'm sure it will keep you a little warmer in the winter as well. It's a wonderful idea to donate it when you are done with all of this. All the best for the surgery. I know you are in good hands.... The Mayo Clinic, Brian's, and God's.
Pj K: Appreciate the update and it looks like you have a lot to face leading to surgery. You can do this with Brian supporting you. Having the radical is a lot of mixed feelings but I assure you it's worth it. It's basically like recovering from a C Section but with hormone adjustment. Mine was at age 32. Consider asking about the dermal patch .05mg It's easy to deal with and curbs issues without promoting cells. Keeps OA away too. Oral meds can increase clots or strokes. Looking forward to the wig video. The one you filmed looked nice. Be patient with your regrowth. It's individual no matter what people say. Allow yourself to be sad and happy, anxious and hyper. It's a process and worth the end game. Take care and be happy you have a great team and options for brighter future.
Christy Baggett: You guys are amazing! Thanks for continuing to share your story. You make a difference.❤
Diane Omans: Congrats on finishing this round of chemo. Hoping that you can enjoy the next couple of weeks before having the operation. It sounds like your care team is doing everything possible to prepare for the numerous possible situations they may face during the surgery. Please give yourself the emotional space and grace to grieve over the changes the surgery will bring as you move forward in your journey toward a hopefully cancer free life. ❤❤❤❤
Tasha Garland: Jessica your skin looks amazing! It’s so good to see you both optimistic about the surgery and rest to face the next steps no matter how uncertain they are. You are both so inspiring! Thank you for sharing all of this with us.
Janet Paul: Hey, just watched your video about your chemo and surgeons visit. I had to have a total hysterectomy when I was 33, after having my 5th baby. And I too went through the same thought process afterwards. I felt like I had lost my female “being”! But very quietly within me God spoke to me and assured me that every single cell in my body was encoded with female genes! After that I was ok! Also, I started Hormone Replacement Therapy immediately after the hysterectomy. I have been on a HRT patch ever since then, I am 69 years old now. My prayers for you and your husband as you go on this journey!!
Lin Knappett: Jessica, I had a hysterectomy at age 34 due to transmigratory endometriosis (the usual kind). I was fine, emotionally, for about two weeks. Then--all of a sudden--it hit me and I felt incomplete and not myself. That lasted a short time. Not very long. Basically the hysterectomy was a really excellent operation and I felt so energetic ever since. Good luck!
Claudia Fernety: You are both so awesome. I have a feeling things are going to be okay. Sending a hug your way!
Pamela Flores: Baby steps back to health and your life back. Small milestones are still milestones. One day you’ll look back on all of this and wonder how you did it. God, Brian, good doctors. You don’t have to be jumping for joy but just look at it as one thing in the rearview mirror. God bless you
Stacy Davis: I had those same thoughts about my womanhood. For me, it was especially hard because I has a mastectomy at 35. I'm 55 now. I had my hysterectomy a couple of years ago. Menopause is different for everyone. Some people have severe hot flashes and some, have none at all. For me, mine are not too bad. I wish you the best of luck, sending positive vibes and hugs to you.
WhatTheElle: I had uterine cancer with total hysterectomy at 38. Menopause is the least of your worries. If you can handle chemo, you can handle anything. You got this.
Bonnie Hardeman: Hysterectomy at 26 and surprisingly felt better than ever. I took some anxiety meds for a while, but never lost my sex drive or femininity. I am 75 years old and had a good life. Hang in there.
Belinda Knowles: Thank you for sharing your journey. I am praying for you both❤️ Love you!
Laurie Ginsburg: I keep praying for you guys and you are so fortunate to be able to have Mayo for your treatment. They are the best. Brian, I hope you are planning to have someone with you during Jessica's surgery. When my husband had a 6 hr long surgery I thought I was tough enough to wait it out by myself but I wasn't. It's a good idea to have someone there to help support you during the long wait if you can.
Kathryn Lundquist: You're rocking the Mayo gear! Praying for you and Brian.
Barbara Kirchner: Very very cute wig. Looks so adorable on you. So cool you are planning on donating after. Someone will sure be grateful.
Jessica Hankins: Giant hugs from across the country! Always remember none of this takes away ANY of your spirit and femininity. If I may, a few tips for surgery tips. Hit that pain pump button as much as you want. Don't try to be a hero! Get up and walk as soon as they let you. If you have a stent, a heating pad will help with the pain more than drugs. Bring a small pillow to hold your guts in when you laugh, cry, move, walk, etc... it will help so much!
Susan Riesz: I am praying for all good results from your appointments and the surgery.
Nancy Patterson: Jessica I had a radical hysterectomy at 42 and I was cut from the navel down to. I also this past February had 14” of my bowels from my Sigmoid up removed ,mine was due to 13 years fighting Diverticulitis and Christmas morning woke to an acute attack and my colon was ready to rupture. Nothing is easy, but I keep you in my prayers! Hugs from South Carolina and God Bless ❤️
Linda Christie: I had a hysterectomy when I was 22 years old! It was the BEST thing I ever did. So freeing!
Nancy Flaherty: Thank you for being so transparent. You’re helping many by educating!
Lucy Erda: "I finished Chemo!" From your lips to the universes ear. I am hopeful that in six months - to a year - you will be able to look back and know that this was truly your last chemo and you are enjoying good health. <3
Lucille Champagne: Thank you for the updates. Brian made you laugh and that was sweet. My prayer continues for you and those caring for you❤ you’ve GOT THIS
Donna Duff: The two of you are truly a wonderful couple!!!!!!!!!! Looking forward to seeing Jessica cancer free!!!!!!! God Bless you both!!!!!!! sending you prayers and love!!!!!!!!!!
Mary Warner: Sounds like your surgeon covered all bases and is thorough! My prayers are with you
K Bata: I had a total hysterectomy at 48. Your organs move around on their own, and settle in new places, so I suddenly have gas pain where I used to have period cramps. Super bizarre. I also had a huge blood clot a few days post op and thought my vaginal sleeve had opened up. Nobody warned me it might happen and I thought I was dying from the amount of blood. You also lose more hormones than estrogen, which nobody really talks about. It's an adjustment afterward for sure. I used an estrogen patch for years to slow down the menopause symptoms, but I still have hot flashes 5 years later. Feel whatever emotions you feel, no feeling is wrong!
Ashlee: You have a lot of great support from this community and your medical team, but if you do end up with a temporary ostomy and want to hear about an ostomate's experience, I have had a permanent one since 2013 and am an open book on dealing with it. That goes for anyone reading this comment, not just Jess. Thank you so much for sharing your journey so far. Rooting for you all day every day
Melissa Sprayberry: A good friend of mine had had cancer metastasis to her liver and they did “ablation” on her liver 3 times and it made the 3 places “dead tumor” … it worked for her on her liver. Love to you both ❤
Team Julie's Crafts and More: It is so good to see how devoted your husband is. Unfortunately, many don't get to experience what you (and I and very few others both male and female) have, with a wonderful spouse who stands by you through this journey.
L S: Can I just say that I LOVE your dinosaur shirt! Been praying big prayers for you both.
JoBethK: Praying for healing for you. Praying for the doctors to know the best way forward for you. Praying for a happy 2023 for my favorite cooking couple!
ruready2learn1: yes, anastomosis is basically "reconnecting" sections of the small bowel after removing the potential diseased section (your small bowel is as long as a football field when stretched out!!!)
melanie sherman: I'm feeling so positive that things are going to turn out well. Hugs to you both.
Marcia Jones: Well done for getting through the chemo. You’ve been a trooper. The wig looks great. Sending you lots of love and light. ✨✨✨✨✨✨
Rose Mary Bowen: Continuing prayers for you both. ❤️
dogma71: I had a Hysterectomy in 2017. I still have my ovaries. They took out, Uterus, Tubes and Cervix. After you heal up. It's not like you feel like empty inside. Hormone wise I couldn't tell you. I had abnormal bleeding and pain. I don't miss bleeding every month. I don't have kids. The mental stuff can get to you but I know with other medical issues I had over the 5 years since that surgery it worked out the way it should. Good luck with everything.