I was absolutely convinced that I could out muscle and out stubborn
melanoma. Shockingly, I might actually be incorrect.
On Friday, Keith and I saw Dr. Flaherty and Dr. Mittal where
I learned the one-two punch of my fourth gamma knife followed by 10 days of
whole brain radiation has not produced the knockout victory we had hoped for. A
cyst has grown around tumor #7. Additionally, there is new cancer growth around
the cyst; the tumor/cyst combination now measures 5cm. This has resulted in
extensive cerebral edema (swelling) creating substantial pressure in my brain.
I am experiencing unpleasant physical symptoms making it tough for me to do
what I want to do. On the positive side, it has given me free reign to drink
wine again…with no objection provided by anyone! A third craniotomy was
presented as a final option, but I have decided to pass.
Why spend my last weeks in recovery when I could be doing
what I have always encouraged people to do, burn the candle not only at both
ends, but in the middle. I am pretty sure Keith and Melissa will continue to
say, “Your wish is my command,” so here’s my plan:
- spending time with family and friends
- laughing
- reminiscing
- smelling the flowers at the Eastern Market
- savoring excellent wine
- indulging in weekend treat food every dang day
- no holds barred!
I just want to express how much we appreciate the
tremendous amount of support we have received from all our family and friends
over the last 9 months. My posse continues to grow everyday, with two-week old
Katelyn Nagy as the newest member. Here is a depiction of her feelings on melanoma.
(Note: I only held her for 10 minutes when she was a week old, but we obviously
made an instant connection.)
I know you’re sitting there thinking…”What can I do?” Here’s
what I propose – send us your favorite Peggy stories – funny ones to (funnypeggystories@gmail.com)
and any other sentiments you would like to express to peggystudz@gmail.com.
I feel like I ruled the world; it’s time for you to rule
yours. Stop planning and start executing.
-Peggy
I believe our journey never ends, it just turns down another path. You are a remarkable woman. Karen Battersby
ReplyDeleteThough I've never had the pleasure of meeting you, when your daughter Melissa shared your blog link I was instantly struck by how honest, funny, and courageous you are. Drink that wine -- you've more than earned it! You guys will continue to be in my prayers.
ReplyDelete.... boogie down to some music from the 70's and 80's, too ... Love, cuz. A little Led Zepplin never hurt anyone! Denise
ReplyDeleteYou're my hero! Rock on. Katherine L
ReplyDeleteEat, drink, reminisce and enjoy this precious time with all the people you love (and who adore you!!) You continue to be an inspiration, Mrs. S. Thank you for letting all of us take this journey with you. All our love, thoughts and prayers are with you, Mr. Studzinski and Melissa! XOXO! Jodie & Ryan
ReplyDeletePeggy,
ReplyDeleteYou are such an inspiration! Whenever I have an issue that seems unbearable, I think of you and your tremendous positive attitude and all my problems are of little significance. I thank you for that, what a beautiful gift you are. My prayers are continuing always. Eat, drink and be f------ MERRY!!
Julie R
Peggy;
ReplyDeleteYou are undoubtedly the most awesome chick I know. I want you to know that you have touched my life in so many ways, and that I am so blessed to have met you. You continue to amaze, dazzle, and spread your "awesomeness"! I love you darling, forever and always. I will keep the whole family in my rosary chain. Now, DRINK some vino- and have some cheese with it, and crackers- the high fat kind!! XOXOXO Lisa T
The kindness and thoughtfulness you showed me will always be remembered. I thank you for allowing me to share a small portion of time in your wonderful life. You are an inspiration to all! I wish I could share a bottle of wine with you. I will keep you and your family in my thougths. Thank you for being you and being part of our lives.....Drew G
ReplyDeleteNothing can break your spirit, not even that f------ melanoma! You are still the same person I met several years ago (kind heart, funny, good spirits, queen of organization, smart). I went to Claire’s today to buy some fun hair accessories for my daughter at lunch. The stores are collecting donations for melanoma research alliance for all of the people on the KMA path. I donated of course : ) . You are in my thoughts and prayers. Christa
ReplyDeletePeggy - In the short time I've known you, I've been so touched by your outstanding attitude. God blessed you with an amazing gift of wit and courage. Thanks for what you've shared and the gifts you gave us all...I've heard it said that people come into our life for a reason, bringing something we must learn. Like a hand print, you've touched all our hearts! Karin B
ReplyDeleteI will stop planning and start executing every day under your watchful eye. I will remind myself every day that there is much more goodness than bad. I will keep those dear to me close with your example to live by. I will succeed in what matters in life -- love, strength, courage, wisdom, laughter - because you showed me the way. And I will keep you in my heart all the days of my life.
ReplyDeletePeggy - I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to know Melissa's Mom. You have lived a truly giving life, having touched so many hearts with your blog. People will do things differently in their lives because of you, do things better, be kinder and yes, stop and smell the roses. I hope I will be able to say "I made a difference like Peggy has" one day. Remember, it's 5 o'clock somewhere so enjoy your vino and anything else you want! Babs
ReplyDeletePeggy, I have been reading your blog since August and have had the pleasure of working with Melissa for the past few years at CVS. I have been inspired by you and your journey since your first post. Your courage and your attitude can only be described as amazing. I will be thinking about your awesome family and I know you'll be making the most of every moment. You are all in my prayers each day.
ReplyDeleteBest, Erin Pensa
Peggy - your blog has been so encouraging and you have faced this horrible battle with grace and class. I wish there were words I could offer that would make everything better but those words have yet to be created, so in the meantime I wish you love, happiness and laughter. Dance like nobody is watching, sing like never before, always eat dessert first - and remember that you are held up in prayers with strong love daily from so many, many people.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you all.
~Bonnie~
There are a bazillion people at CVS thinking of the Studs family! My family's well wishes are being sent your way Peggy. - Mark Kolligian
ReplyDeleteDear Peggy, I have no funny stories, I wish that I did. I don't really know you, just of you from your brother Michael and what I've read on this blog. I'd like you to know for what it's worth I think you are a tremendous example of a wonderful woman to all that do know you. I've been praying for you for awhile and will continue to do so. God Bless, enjoy your family, drink your wine and eat your favorite foods, smell the flowers and know that you are loved by many.
ReplyDeletePat