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A New Normal

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We are slowly getting back to a new normal around here. I had my first weekly post-chemo blood test yesterday…..only 51 more to go!  I think we’ll know in a few weeks if I’m officially in remission. Choriocarcinoma is an aggressive cancer…..so the weekly blood tests are peace of mind too. After my blood test I completely forgot about getting the results. My father-in-law called bright and early this morning….HCG at 2, down from 3 last week so that’s awesome. Visiting the doctors’s office I had some mixed feelings. I saw Nurse M and she said a few other patients had asked where I was last Thursday. She told them “She’s done!”  I met so many great people in the infusion center. I hope I get to stay away from that place though.

I feel like I’m getting my energy back. We even hosted Easter brunch here at the house for the whole family.

Boo’s new favorite thing to do? Baking. She and I have made 2 cakes in the last few days. We ate them too. My appetite is slowing getting back to normal!

About Ashley Hackshaw

Living a simple, creative life in #smalltownusa Bryson City, NC. Renovating a 1960s ranch house and an old train depot. Thank you for reading! Read more in my about section. 

Comments

  3. Rebecca says

    That is great news and I will continue praying for your recovery. You are amazing and have shown more courage than anyone I know.

    Thank you for sharing your life with us. We have all learned so much from your journey.

  4. HEATHER says

    …ROOTING FOR YOU!! You will be in my prayers…stay strong, praying for remission for you! And good riddance to it forever!

  5. kris allbright says

    I am so glad you are doing better..You give so much joy and hope… I am recovering from NET of the pancreas, the surgery stunk and now my best friend is battling breast cancer. Tonight was our bald is beautiful party and I shaved her head..I thought of you and all you have been through and I am still praying for you..You are an inspiration.. Kris

  6. Rebekah G. says

    Its so exciting that you all are getting back to normal!! I’ve been reading for a few months now (a little before the rite of passage) and I have been so blessed with your courage and positive outlook!

    On a completely different and random note, my 4 year old would like to know what cake boo is making. He would like to make one as well!

    P.s. we have a friend in NC that is battling cancer and has a Dr. L! I’m sure it’s not the same physician seeing that you live across the country…but I thought it was a sweet coincidence. I just pray for the wisdom of each of them 🙂

  7. Karen says

    Ashley, so happy to hear your blood results are good, I will keep praying that they remain that way!!!!

  12. Ruby Lynn says

    You’re just amazing! I’ve sent quite a few women to your blog who are in need of “Choosing Joy”, who need to see that there is a way to deal with “crap” that is flung their way.

    You’re always in my prayers, as well as Boo and your family. 🙂 Funny how something will pop along in my day and I’ll think of LLB. lol

    Those cancer cells have no business in LLB! Out I say and let them be band forever!!

    xoxo, Ruby

  13. Katie says

    Is that a poke cake you’re making? My Grandma used to make those all the time. They’re my favorite!

    I’m glad everything is getting back to normal for you.

  18. Trisha says

    That’s awesome news!!! BTW, that cake Boo is making is one of my VERY faces..but I like it with orange jello!!!

  27. Michele says

    I’ve been reading for a little while now and just wanted to say how much I admire you. You have such a wonderfully positive outlook on life…”choose joy” I LOVE it! I seriously think of that often. I actually had a molar pregnancy in 2008 but counting my blessings it was nowhere near as severe as what you’ve been dealing with. I remember the weekly blood draws and then monthly but I would get so nervous I would call the hospital for the results the minute they should have been ready. I’m so glad for you that your levels are low and pray that they remain that way!

  28. Simone says

    Fantastic to hear that you’re beginning to feel a little better and that your “number/s” are heading in the right direction. I think of you and your family very often and pray that you are well, happy and joyful. Take care. Best wishes, Simone x

  29. Teri says

    Ashley,
    I am Heather G’s mom ( Angel Face Designs/Glitter & Gloss) and this is such wonderful news !! I pray for you daily and will continue to ask our God for your complete recovery. You are a shining example for so many and you have inspired me to “Choose Joy” and wearing your bracelet is a wonderful reminder. You are a blessing to the world and thank you for your honesty and sharing your life through your blog.

    Much love and joy,
    Teri

  33. Maryse says

    I’m so happy for you and miracles do happen. Your positive attitude throughout all this is an inspiration to everyone with or without cancer. You have shown us that no matter what, life is worth fighting and living for. Thank you for inspiring me. 🙂 Hugs xx

  35. Kim says

    Im so sorry to hear you’ve been ill! I’ve been away from blog land for a while and just came back…my dads been really ill, is actually having stem cells harvested as we speak… I’m encouraged to read you’re feeling a bit better! God bless you!

  36. Susie Miele says

    You are one tough cookie!!! I am so happy for you and your family…I will keep you in my prayers always..you have been my strength in helping my mom with her breast cancer.

  39. Megan says

    Happy for you and your family that lives is resembling its old self again – normal live never felt so good, I’m sure! Still praying for you all!

  45. JoAnn says

    I just found your blog this week and have stayed up the last three nights reading through the Cancer Chronicles. You have made a definite impact on me to “Choose Joy.” Praying for God’s continued healing!

  46. ira lee henson says

    i really am so proud of your recovery! you have worked so hard to be positive, upbeat, and faithful. i know you probably dont feel it, but its such an inspiration! to know you went from trying to have a baby, to cancer and hysterectomy!!! you are quite the amazing woman! i have been praying for you and i will send a prayer of thanks to the good lord!!!!!!!! much love!!!

  48. Suzanne says

    I am so glad to hear this good news! I pray that you never ever have to see the inside of another infusion center.

  50. Susan says

    So glad to hear the “numbers” are looking good . . . great news for everyone.

    Enjoy the baking and all of the new memories you will be cooking up 🙂

    I will continue to pray for your entire family.

    Susan

  52. Ashley Barker says

    That’s awesome that your levels are down and you’re feeling better!!!! There was never a doubt.in my mind that you wouldn’t beat this 🙂

  54. Jill Hampton says

    It is nice to hear that you are doing well. I will be praying for you along with the many other followers you have. There is power in numbers and you will be healed. Hugs, Jill

  58. Michele M says

    Ashley, So happy to hear your numbers are great and your are enjoying some normal things. Your daughter is so pretty and it is great to see that continued message of “choosing joy” each day when I read your blog ! This phrase rang through my mind lots today as I attended the funeral of my dear friend Vickie Bowler (Charlotte, NC – St.Gabriel’s Church). She was 42 years old and fought breast cancer. She Chose Joy always and her family and friends were doing this today as well. She was always someone who even while working a full time job spent many hours donating her time to the Levine Children’s Cancer center, homeless shelter, Special Olympics (her father founded the Charlotte Chapter) and many other groups. I wish I would have had enough “choose joy” bands to hand out today but would have needed hundreds. She knew sooo many people and had a true passion for giving to those in need and always sending a positive message. I continue to send prayers your way and hold tight that message of “Choosing Joy”! Hugs to you and your family!!

  59. Leigh Ann says

    Fantastic Ashley! You will always be in my thoughts and prayers and my best pen pal ever! 🙂 do you remember that as a child? Wanting to have a pen pal? That was pribay before your time. Hope you have a GREAT day!
    Hugs

  60. Deborah says

    Ashley, wonderful news. I’ll continue to pray that God works his miracles on you. Keep up your positive, beautiful attitude!

  61. Debbie says

    Praising the Lord with you and continuing to pray. You do have more than hope and hope is a lot all by itself. 🙂

  64. jessica@fourgenerationsoneroof says

    Great news. I will continue to pray your numbers keep going down 🙂 I don’t always get to comment but I am reading your posts and love them! Lots of times I am in my reader and just run out of time to jump over! Keep up the good work and great attitude 🙂

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