Mole removal, Colonoscopy, & Thanksgiving

11.29.25

The last week was crazy busy. I had my colonoscopy booked for about 3 months but the week before I caught a nasty cold and about 5 days before my dermatologist called and said they had an opening for surgery to get a pre cancerous mole removed- so I jumped on it. It was a lot to deal with in just a short amount of days but I am thankful it is all done with.

The mole removal surgery was quick- I was awake for it and they just numbed up the area before removing a 3 inch patch on my lower back. I got about 2 layers of 8 stitches. 

The day after was really weird- I woke up and my back was hurting from the surgery and then I started to get really dizzy and thought I was going to pass out. We took my blood pressure and it was extremely low (69/46). I was starting to worry I might have to go to the hospital. And was even more worried I would need to reschedule my colonoscopy.

Thankfully everything leveled out- I talked with my GI dr and he said I would be good to do the prep a couple days later. 

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11.25.25

This colonoscopy last year (almost to the day) was where they found the mass in my colon that later was officially diagnosed to be colon cancer- so repeating this process brought up a lot of emotions. 

I started the prep drink in the morning and almost threw up after the first gulp. I knew this was something I needed to do so I decided to mix the prep drink with a little gatorade, plug my nose while chugging through a straw, and bite a lemon before I unplugged my nose. I repeated this each time until the jug was finished. It took about 8 hours. 

The next morning Mike and I woke up bright and early and headed to the facility for the colonoscopy. They took be back to get me all ready and I immediately started crying. Being in there was so strange. The nurse gave me a huge hug- we chatted for a minute and I was so comforted in that moment. 

They wheeled me back and before I knew it I was done. My amazing GI said everything was clear- no polyps, no hemorrhoids- and I couldn't be more relieved.  He said I dont have to come back for 3 years for another one!!

11.19.25

Mike and I got to attend the ribbon cutting for City of Hope's Orange County Hospital opening December 1st, 2025. The event was incredible- we were not expecting it to be such a big event but we were so thankful we were invited to attend. They had a few speakers, a musical performance, and after they cut the ribbon, there was a big tented party, followed by a tour of the stunning new hospital. 

This new hospital is going to bring so much hope to our community and I am so thankful to be getting my care from a facility that cares so much. 

Thanksgiving was wonderful. We went over to my brother in laws house in Villa Park. My sister in law cooked a delicious classic thanksgiving meal and the Kiddos got to run around and play with my nephews. 

I am so thankful for how far I have come since this time last year and thankful for everyone who helped get me to this point.