Merry Christmas!

Unfortunately, Leanne's Christmas has been pretty eventful. On Christmas Day, she was having a lot of back pain and some digestive issues. They headed back from Ryan's families house and Leanne went to see Dr. Bloom the next morning for some blood work and to get some fluids. The blood work showed that she has shingles ... YUCK. She was put on an antibiotic and given some meds for the pain. While her digestive issues have cleared up, she is still in significant pain at times.

Will you please pray for relief from the pain for Leanne and the shingles to go away completely. Thanks for partnering with us!

Update and A New Member

Leanne's mouth sores were worse on Friday so she called the oncologist to ask what else they could do.  She has "magic mouthwash" and has been doing other rinses and still was not feeling any relief.  Eating and drinking were getting harder.  Dr. Bloom decided on Friday to hold Leanne's one medicine for at least a week in order to let her mouth heal.  She was pretty frustrated about this but Dr. Bloom said it was pretty common and not a big deal.  He said it does not mean the medicine isn't working, it is just the thing about this medicine.  He also prescribed some pain medicine to help her feel better and eat and drink easier.  All of that said, Saturday was a tough day.  Leanne took pain medicine because she needed it but due to not eating and drinking a whole lot, it made her very nauseous.  Please pray that the mouth sores heal quickly and we find a balance of pain medicine that does not make her sick.

On a much lighter note, Team Chin gained a sweet, new member on Tuesday.

Claire Leanne Euken was born to Katie (Leanne's older sister and the blog's usual author) and Bret.  She weighed in at 6 lb 13 oz.  Mom, dad, Claire, and big sister Mollie are all doing wonderful! 

 The Lord has done great things for us and we are filled with joy!

Psalm 126:3

If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Prayer!

Leanne has a specific prayer request that she would like to share with everyone. One of the side effects of the medicines she is on is severe mouth sores. She has several right now and would like you all to pray for relief from them.

Thanks for being such wonderful, willing prayer partners with us!

2 steps forward, 1 step back

I have nothing to compare this cancer journey to, but it sure feels like every time we are moving ahead, we take a step backwards.

Leanne's appointment with Dr. Bloom today showed some new cancer spots. The cancer that was previously in her lymph nodes is growing and there is cancer in another lymph node as well as a new spot on her liver.

Due to the results of this scan, Dr. Bloom has decided to turn Leanne's ovaries off again to stop estrogen from being produced in her body. She is also starting two new, oral medicines on Thursday. One will block the cancer cells from producing estrogen to feed on and one is a new type of chemo medicine. There is a high probability of some nasty side effects of the medicines, so we will covet your prayers against those side effects.

We also learned that the reconstruction process is on hold for now.

Leanne will meet with Dr. Bloom again in January and will have another scan in February.

Here is where we need you. Please join with us in prayer for:

• Peace for Leanne, Ryan, and their families 
• Contentment for Leanne 
• Wisdom for Dr. Bloom as he makes treatment decisions for Leanne
• Strength for Ryan as he leads his family
• God to continue to reveal Himself and His plan to Leanne
• God to continue to equip Leanne for the road He is calling her to walk down
• Against loneliness for Leanne
• Minimal side effects from the new medicines

As I sit here tonight and write this, it is easy to be tempted to think of all I/we should do and how to shoulder this burden. But, I am reminded of Matthew 11:28-30

“Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. All of you, take up My yoke and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for yourselves. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Never once in God's Word does He command us to rely on ourselves and shoulder the burdens of this life on our own. Instead, He promises us that if we lay our burdens at His feet He will give us rest. We are to take up His yoke and find rest because He already paid the price and overcame any burden this world will throw our way. God is big enough to handle this. I am praying we are reminded often to take this specific burden to God and lay it down before Him and to experience His peace and rest in return.

If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Thankful!

 After spending a week together, we have much to be thankful for! Thankful for the peace and comfort that we can only find in God.

Leanne has a scan tomorrow (December 2nd) and then an appointment with Dr. Bloom on Tuesday December 3rd.

Please be praying for us over the next few days. Some specifics:

• Peace for Leanne, Ryan, and their families
• Clear results from the scan on Monday
• Leanne to be free from aches and pains (she has been having some back pain lately)
• God's wisdom and guidance for Dr. Bloom 

Toddler Tuesday & an appt

Leanne had an appointment with Dr. Bloom this afternoon at 1. Instead of spending the morning thinking about what this appointment would hold, Grammie took Leo, Leanne, and Auntie Aimee to the Mall of America's Nickelodeon Universe.

 Too bad they didn't have any fun :)

 

 

 What a fun morning!

Leanne's appointment with Dr. Bloom went well! He said her disease is "stable, if not improved." GREAT NEWS! We are thankful for God's healing hand on Leanne. They also talked about a very new trial drug that has promising results, but is only necessary and available if Leanne's disease progresses. We just need to pray and trust God's sovereign plan to happen in His time so if the medicine  is needed, that it would be available.  (The trial is only open for a small amount of time.) And another praise was that they were able to have a great conversation about the reconstruction process.

Please keep us in your prayers:

• Peace for Leanne as she continues to fight on this journey
• Strength for Leanne, Ryan, and their families
• Clear results from her scan in December
• Good sleep for Leanne and Leo
• Praise for good convo about reconstruction!

Newsworthy!

Check out this article HERE from the Eden Prairie News. In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness month, they wrote a great article about Leanne's cancer journey.

Join Us!

Tomorrow marks the 2 year anniversary of Leanne's cancer diagnosis. Yuck.

I still remember all the anxiety and fear the night before her appointment on the 11th. I remember waiting all morning for some news from my sister or mom. I remember getting a text that said "It's too bad to say in a text."

2 years has been a really long time. Lots of waiting, questioning, and wondering if it will ever end.

But I also can think of countless times where God proved faithful and trustworthy. He answered prayers in ways we couldn't fathom would be for Leanne's good. But He knows what He is doing. He provided for needs to be met when we couldn't see that there was even a need yet. He provided encouragement, support, and love in the darkest of moments. If there is one thing TEAM CHIN is sure of, it is that God is trustworthy and faithful beyond what we can ever comprehend.

I wish we could say that Leanne is cancer free and enjoying a care free life. But that isn't entirely the case. Leanne isn't cancer free at the moment. But thanks to a God is is big enough to cast our cares on, Leanne can enjoy a life free from worry and fear.

Please join us tomorrow, Friday October 11th, in wearing pink to support and celebrate Leanne. Support of her battle against cancer. Support of her legacy of faith that she is weaving in this life that cannot be denied by those around her. Celebration of her life! Celebration of all the good she has been blessed with over the past 2 years.

We love you guys and are so thankful for your support!

And a special shout out to my cousin, Peter Spulecki, as he runs the Chicago marathon in honor of the American Cancer Society and Leanne. Thanks for your support Pete!

Appt. Update

Leanne had an appointment with Dr. Bloom's nurse practitioner today. She and Grammie had a mighty cute buddy join them.

 

Leo got to meet all of Leanne's wonderful nurses who have taken great care of her for the past (almost) 2 years.

   

 Leo enjoyed his new toy :)

   

Here is a recap from the appointment:

Based on lack of side effects Leanne is experiencing, the chemo meds are being metabolized in her body. This doesn't mean that the meds are working or not working, just that her body is tolerating it. And that is a very good thing!

We are still coveting your prayers. Please keep praying for:

• Minimal side effects. With this type of chemo, the side effects tend to build over time so we are praying that they stay minimal so Leanne can continue to take the meds.
• Maximum effectiveness of the chemo meds.
• Peace for Leanne, Ryan, and their families as they wait.
• Freedom from the fearful mental battle Leanne is facing.

Leanne has been experiencing a lot of fear and anxiety lately. Please join us in praying that Satan's attacks on her would be rendered ineffective. Pray that she would be reminded of truth in those moments when fear and anxiety seem overwhelming.

If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Update

It has been a few weeks, so it's time for a blog update.

Leanne is now on her second round of her 7 day chemo meds. While she has relief from some of the extreme side effects from her past chemo treatments, this new medicine has a new set of side effects. One of the biggest and most debilitating is the nausea. It comes on quickly and without warning. Leanne will see a nurse practitioner next week that works with Dr. Bloom just for a check up. She will see Dr. Bloom in November and then have another scan in early December.

Here is where you guys come in. You have been extremely faithful to pray with us. Please continue to do so! Here are some specifics:

• Minimal side effects from this chemo (especially the nausea)
• Maximum effectiveness of the chemo on the lymph nodes
• Freedom from any fear and anxiety that Leanne is having
• Strength to fight the mental battle that goes along with cancer
• Good, restful sleep for Leanne
• Peace for Leo when he is away from Leanne (separation anxiety has been hard for Leo and Leanne)

Thanks for your support! To the diaper deliverer, you are awesome!!!

If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

From Leanne ...

At times like this it seems like we should be the ones encouraging and supporting Leanne while she struggles through where God has her.

Instead, God has given her a peace that we only dream of experiencing. And she is using that peace to encourage and support her team around her.

Check out this blog post from Leanne HERE. May you be encouraged to choose trust and faith as you read it.

God is bigger than this. Believe it!

Not quite ...

While today's appointment was not quite the news we wanted to hear today, there is still much to be thankful for.

Leanne's appointment with Dr. Bloom today was a long one. We learned that the cancer spots that were in her bones (pelvis) and liver are no longer active! We are praising God for this healing. We also learned that the cancer that was in her lymph nodes is continuing to grow. We are trusting God's plan for a healing from this cancer too.

Dr. Bloom has decided that Leanne will start taking an oral chemo medication every other week for 90 days to try and stop the growth of the cancer in her lymph nodes.  She will take the medicine for 7 days and then have 7 days off. We don't exactly know the side effects that will come with this medicine but we are praying they will be minimal. Leanne will meet with Dr. Bloom once a month until she has another scan at the end of the 90 days to see how the cancer is responding to the medicine.

Another praise is  Leanne will get to stop taking some other medicines that have some pretty nasty side effects!! We are praising God for answering our prayer that Leanne would have relief from some of the unpleasant side effects.

The previous plan to begin the reconstruction process soon has also changed. Dr. Bloom has decided that now is not the best time the start that process.

While this is not what we wanted to hear, it is exactly what God intended to happen. We are once again choosing to trust God in this journey, no matter what lies ahead. Please keep us in your prayers. At this point you can pray for:

• Peace for Leanne, Ryan, and their families
• Maximum effectiveness of the new medicine against the cancer
• Minimal side effects from this new medicine

We will update after the first round of medicine to let you know of more specific ways to pray. If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Prayers!

Hey TEAM CHIN readers, please join us in praying for tomorrows appointment with Dr. Bloom. Please pray for:

• Peace and good rest tonight for Leanne, Ryan, and their families
• Clear results from the scan on Friday
• No more chemo!!!!!!!!!!
• Wisdom for Dr. Bloom

And a huge thanks to all who prayed on Friday morning. Leanne was able to have peace beyond understanding and we are thankful God can give peace like that no matter what the circumstance is.

If you are looking for a way to support the American Cancer Society as they strive to find a cure, check out this page. Our cousin, Peter, is running the Chicago Marathon and is striving to raise $1,500 in honor of Leanne to support the American Cancer Society. 

Thanks in advance for praying and I will let you know the news from tomorrow as soon as I can.

Prayers for Friday

On Friday August 30th at 10:00am Leanne has another PET scan. Please join us in praying for this scan. We are praying for:

• Clear results showing no cancer on the scan
• Wisdom for Dr. Bloom as he makes future treatment decisions
• Peace for Leanne, Ryan, and their families 

Leanne has a follow up appointment with Dr. Bloom on Tuesday September 3rd at 1:30pm where she will learn the results from that scan. As soon as we know the results, I will post them on the blog. Thanks in advance for praying!!

Check out the blog post from Leanne's personal blog, Miller Time:

Sometimes I do things that force me to walk down what I will call "Cancer Memory Lane."  It is where I am doing something or talking to someone and I have to think back through my whole cancer journey.  Each and every treatment, doctor's appointment, scan, diagnosis, phone call, meeting, the whole she-bang.
It is not something I enjoy. 
It is actually something I avoid doing as much as possible. 
It is hard. 
It makes me uncomfortable.  Like squirm out of my seat and run as fast as I can the other direction uncomfortable.
It floods me with emotions that I am not always equipped to deal with. 

Tonight I was writing an email when my brain decided to take its own little trek down "cancer memory lane."  You see, I have a scan coming up on Friday and I was telling someone about it.  I was telling her what I am praying for.  Telling her how much I really just want to know if the results will be good or bad and at the same time I never want to know.  (Basically, I just want to know the future-too much to ask, I know)  The message from church tonight on surrender must have also been on my mind because  all of a sudden my mind simply took its own detour.  Reminding me what I was feeling in October of 2011 when we were waiting for biopsy results and turning the idea of pregnant with cancer over in our minds.  Reminding me how scared I was.  Reminding me how much anticipation and anxiety is supposed to be in this scan week.  Reminding me of how many times I we have prayed for things in this cancer journey and God has said "no."

And then I realized how much my life has changed since that day almost two years ago.
I realized how much of a different person I am now. 
I realized how much I have learned- about myself, my faith, my family, medical knowledge.
I realized how many people I have praying for me- creating a shield around me from fear and anxiety. 
I realized how many times I have seen, really-truly-honestly-can't deny it is him- seen God's hand at work in my life.

I know that I have prayed for lots of things on this cancer journey that God has answered "no" to.  That doesn't mean that he does not love me.  It does not mean that he is not taking care of me.  It doesn't mean that he isn't going to heal me.  It simply reminds me that he knows better right now.  His plan is better and he can see the whole picture. As hard as that is, I am so thankful for that!!

This week should hold all kinds of fear, anticipation, and anxiety.  Two years ago it would have been unbearable.  I want to say that today it doesn't even matter.  I can't.  It does matter, there will still be anticipation but I refuse to give in to the anxiety and fear.  God has a plan.  It will turn out his way.  He will be victorious and it will be good.
Will you simply join me in praying that I would be able to "trust God more" this week?

PS- I am so thankful for you.  Thankful for your prayers, notes, cards emails, meals, all of it.  I am thankful the way you walk this journey with me whether you truly know me or not.  It humbles me to no end and I am thankful that you let God use you to bless me.

Chemo #17

We are praying that this is the last chemo post that has to be written on this blog. But we are trusting God with His plan for Leanne's future.

We celebrated high enough counts today!!!! Grammie stayed with Leo today while our family friend, Mrs. Bonnie, went to chemo with Leanne.

   

 Once again, Leanne got to Face Time with some cute little ladies in her life. First was Carter.

   

 Next, Mollie.

   

 Thanks for praying with us this far. We are begging you to continue praying. Please pray for:

• Maximum effectiveness of the chemo
• Minimum side effects from the chemo
• Good, restful sleep for Leanne, Ryan, and Leo
• Wisdom for Dr. Bloom as he makes treatment decisions in the next two weeks
• Clear results from Leanne's scan on August 30th
• Peace for Leanne, Ryan, and their families 

Thanks to all those who helped watch Leo or go to chemo with Leanne. We are so thankful for the time you sacrificed to help. We could not do this without you!!!!!

Thanks for praying with us! If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Chemo #16

Well, as the title implies, Leanne had good enough counts to get to have chemo today!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks to all of you who prayed :)

Leanne went to chemo with her friend, Kate, from MOPS. She is a wonderful friend to Leanne and an awesome prayer warrior. Aren't we all thankful for friends like that?!

   

Grammie got to spend the afternoon with Leo while Mollie and I got to Face Time with Auntie Leanne today!

 

 

Please keep praying for us! Here are some specifics:

• Strength for Leanne and Ryan
• Minimal side effects from the chemo
• Maximum results from the chemo
• Next week to be her final chemo treatment
• Wisdom for Dr. Bloom as he makes treatment decisions
• Good, restful sleep for Leanne, Ryan, and Leo
• High counts again for next week

Thanks to the group of moms in Eden Prairie who showed Leanne a super encouraging act of kindness. this past week. She is super thankful for your support and prayers. Thanks ladies!!!!!

Thanks for praying with us! If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Chemo #15

After a much needed week off from chemo, it was back to the grind today. My mom went to chemo with Leanne today. Crystal stayed home with Leo. Thanks Crystal!!!

 

There were some exceptionally loud people there this afternoon. Thank goodness for headphones :)

   

And thank goodness for Face Time to help pass the time at chemo. First was Mollie's turn.

   

Next was Carter and Crosby.

   

We are really praying that the next two weeks are Leanne's last two chemo treatments. Please join us in praying for Leanne. Here are some specific requests:

• Higher counts for Leanne (hers have been lower the past three weeks)
• Good rest and health for Leanne this week
• Strength for Leanne and Ryan
• Maximum effectiveness from the chemo
• Clear results from Leanne's scan at the end of August
• Continued encouragement and support for Leanne and Ryan
• Wisdom for Dr. Bloom as he makes treatment decisions for Leanne un the upcoming weeks

Thanks for praying with us! If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Chemo #14

Only 3 more chemo treatments left! We are really praying these are the last three treatments and that Leanne can move onto another form of treatment.

Grammie stayed home with Leo so we could go to chemo with Leanne!

 

 It was super fun to get for Leo to get to Face Time with his mom during chemo :)

   

We are thankful for a family vacation this week. Please pray for a restful and rejuvenating time for Leanne in the next few days. Please be praying specifically for:

• Minimal side effects from the chemo
• Maximum effectiveness of the chemo
• Clear results from her scan so Leanne can be done with chemo after the next 3 treatments
• Restful sleep for Leanne, Ryan, and Leo
• Wisdom for Dr. Bloom as he makes decisions regarding Leanne's future treatment
• Freedom from anxiety and guilt for Leanne

Thanks for praying with us! If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Chemo #13

Today was another chemo day. Leanne had the blessing of her good friend Patty coming down to spend the day with her! Patty and Leanne taught together in Alexandria. They enjoyed a morning of shopping and then a kid less lunch. Patty also got to go to chemo with Leanne today. We are very thankful for the friends God has placed in Leanne's life, both old ones and new.

   

Grammie got to hang out with Leo for the afternoon :)

 As time goes on, the side effects from the chemo get more intense (and more frustrating for Leanne). Please continue to partner with us in prayer and to frequently lift Leanne up in prayer. Here are some specifics:

• Patience for Leanne as she deals with the side effects from chemo
• Minimal side effects from the chemo
• Maximum effectiveness of the chemo to continue shrinking the cancer
• Peace for Leanne, Ryan, and their families as they continue on this cancer journey
• Leo to sleep through the night consistently
• Peace for Leanne, her parents, and siblings as they deal with the death of Leanne's Nannie

As we hinted at last week, we were dealing with some family stuff. Our Nannie was diagnosed with stomach cancer in early June and given a short time to live. While we were able to enjoy a life full of wonderful memories with Nannie, it was very hard to see her suffer from cancer. It brought out a lot of realities for our family, some of which were very scary to think about. However, God has not called us to go down that road with Leanne so we will continue to trust His plan for her. 

On a completely different hand, there was such a peace about Nannie's death for us because we knew she would spend eternity in heaven. The Bible says that anyone who has a personal relationship with Jesus as their savior will spend eternity in heaven. (John 3:16 and John 3:3) We know with certainty that Nannie is enjoying every single second in heaven right now, not because of any good works she did, because of her church attendance, or because of anything else she did. It is all because of God's grace in the gift of salvation and we are thankful for the peace that grace provides. Please keep our family in your prayers as we celebrate her life.

If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Chemo #12

After enjoying a week off from chemo last week, it was time for Leanne to resume her chemo schedule. She had an appointment with her Nurse Practicioner and things are still going well. They talked about her upcoming surgery and have tentatively talked about doing it in November. But, nothing is set in stone. Leanne's blood pressure was high both times they took it today. It is possible one of the medications could be contributing to the high blood pressure, but there is a lot happening in our family right now, which could also be the culprit.

My mom went to chemo with Leanne today while Crystal stayed home with Leo this afternoon. Thanks Crystal!

 

Leanne was busy at chemo today! Lots of FaceTiming!! First was Mollie and I.

   

Next up was Carter and Danielle

   

Then Tim and Carter took a turn! Crosby was there too, she must have been busy evading the camera.

   

Please keep Leanne in your prayers. Here are some specifics:

• Pray for Leanne's blood pressure to lower itself
• Minimal side effects from the chemo 
• The numbness in her fingers and toes not to spread any further
• Maximum effectiveness of the chemo so that these next 5 treatments would be the last ones
• Clarity for the Dr's as they continue to make plans regarding Leanne's future treatment
• Peace for Leanne and our family 
• Strength and endurance for Leanne in the remaining 5 chemo treatments

If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Chemo #11

Another chemo day done! Leo was at home with Grammie while Aimee went to chemo with Leanne today.

   

We are thankful Leanne has had good enough counts the past few weeks! We are also really thankful for your prayers. Please continue lifting Leanne, Ryan, and their families up in prayer. Here are some specific requests:

• Minimal side effects from chemo
• The numbness in her fingers to not spread any further
• Strength and stamina for Ryan, Leo and their families as they support Leanne
• Maximum effectiveness from this particular chemo medicine
• Leo to get better sleep while he is teething

And a huge thanks to whoever keeps the diaper deliveries coming!!

Chemo #10

Leanne had good counts yesterday so she was able to have chemo today! While Leo stayed home with Grammie, Karen went to chemo with Leanne.

   

 Please keep Leanne in your prayers. Here are some specifics:

• Minimal side effects from chemo
• The numbness in her fingers to not spread any further
• Strength for Leanne to keep fighting
• Strength and stamina for Ryan, Leo and their families as they support Leanne
• Restful sleep for Leanne, Ryan, and Leo
• Maximum effectiveness from this particular chemo medicine

If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Chemo #8 and some good news!

Leanne got some great news at her appointment with Dr. Bloom this morning! All the spots they saw on her scan in March have shrunk! Dr. Bloom is not convinced they have reached the maximum results from this chemo, so he has decided to continue chemo for 2-3 more months and then do another scan. We are so thankful for God blessing us with these results!

After her appointment, my mom went with Leanne to chemo. Mollie and I were the lucky ones to have a lunch FaceTime date!

 
 

Thanks to Karen for watching Leo today!

We are so thankful for your prayers, support, meals, and encouragement. We could not do this without you! Please keep lifting Leanne up in prayer. Here are some specific requests:

• Praise God for great results today!
• Minimal side effects from the chemo for Leanne
• The numbness in Leanne's fingers to not spread any further
• Strength and stamina for Leanne, Ryan, Leo, and their families as we start another round of chemo
• Restful sleep for Leanne
• Wisdom for Dr. Bloom as he continues making decision regarding Leanne's treatment

If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Prayers please

Leanne has asked for prayers for her appointment tomorrow. Her appointment is at 8am with Dr. Bloom and then chemo is right after that.

Please pray for:

• Freedom from anxiety for Leanne, Ryan, and their families but for Leanne especially. 
• Peace for TEAM CHIN no matter what the news is tomorrow.
• Wisdom for Dr. Bloom as he makes decisions about future treatment.

I will post as soon as I know what the results are tomorrow. We covet your prayers. Thanks in advance for joining us in prayer.

If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

No Chemo Tuesday!!

Today was one of Leanne's scheduled weeks off from chemo. We spent the day shopping, crafting, and relaxing. 

Leanne got the results of her genetic testing this evening and she is not a carrier of the BRCA 1 or BRCA 2 gene! We are praising God for the burden that has been lifted off Leanne's heart.

While this has been a restful and relaxing week, there are some big events coming up over the next few days. On Thursday Leanne has a PET scan at 6:45am. We don't know if she will know the results of the scan that day or when she meets with Dr. Bloom next Tuesday. But, know that we will let you know the results once we know them.

Please be praying for:

• Praise! for the good news from the genetic testing results
• Peace for Leanne as she has her PET scan. Pray against loneliness and fear during the actual scan
• Peace for Leanne, Ryan, and their families as they await the results of the scan
• Peace for Leo as he cannot be around Leanne on Thursday
• Wisdom for Dr. Bloom as he makes decisions regarding Leanne's future treatment

If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Chemo #8

Before we do the chemo update, we wanted to let you know that TEAM CHIN has a new member!

 

Carter Joy White was born yesterday, May 27, to Leanne's older brother, Tim, and his wife, Danielle. Congrats!!!

 Now for the chemo news. Leanne had high enough counts to have chemo today! She had a lot of nausea after chemo last time, so they tried something new this time to keep the nausea at bay. My mom went to chemo with Leanne. Thanks Kathy for spending the afternoon with Leo!

   

 And Mollie and I got to Face Time with her during chemo. Isn't modern technology wonderful?!?!

   

 I think Mollie was pretty happy to see her Auntie Leanne :)

 Please be praying for Leanne. Pray specifically for:

• Minimal side effects from chemo for Leanne
• The numbness in Leanne's fingers to not spread any further
• Peace for Leanne, Ryan, and their families as they await what lies ahead
• Stamina and strength for Leanne and Ryan
• Wisdom for Dr. Bloom as he makes decisions about the future of Leanne's treatment plan

If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

Plastic Surgeon Meeting

Leanne had a meeting yesterday with her plastic surgeon. He was very positive and is willing to begin the reconstruction process whenever Leanne is ready. Good news!!!!!

They are going to wait until Leanne has finished chemo and has the results of a PET scan she will have on June 6th. They are also waiting on results from some genetic testing to see exactly what the process of her reconstructive surgeries will entail.

Thanks for continuing to pray!

Chemo #7

7 down, 2 more to go!

Leanne's counts were high enough yesterday that she was able to have chemo today! While Grammie stayed home with Leo, our Dad went to chemo with Leanne.

 

It was crowded and noisy at chemo. On days like that, Leanne is thankful for noise cancelling headphones :)

Please keep her in your prayers this week. You can specifically pray for:

• Strength for Leanne to keep fighting what seems like a never ending battle
• Peace for Leanne & Ryan
• Good rest for Leanne, Ryan, and Leo
• Minimal side effects from the chemo for Leanne this week
• Strength for Ryan, Leo, and their families to keep supporting Leanne
• Wisdom for the Dr.'s as she has a scan in 2 weeks to see what the next steps in her journey will be
• Praise!!! For wonderful friends and family who selflessly help out and support Leanne, Ryan, and their families.
• Praise that Grandma Deb is coming for a few days to hang out with Leo and help Leanne!!!! Yay for Grandma time!

If you ever have any questions about our faith and would like more info, please email us at teamchinny@gmail.com and we would love to talk more.

2nd chance!

Hey guys! I know many of you ordered from the Thirty-One fundraiser for Leanne a few weeks ago. THANK YOU!!!!!

But, I know some of you didn't get the chance to order. Well, you get a second chance! Check out the link here 2nd Chance Party. When you get to Heather's page click on My Parties and you will see the 2nd chance party for Leanne.

If you are at a loss of what to order, I highly recommend:

• The Large Utility Tote
• The Retro Metro Bag
• Any of their thermal bags

Thanks for supporting the Miller's in this way!!

Chemo #6

Before chemo Leanne had an appointment with Dr. Bloom's Nurse Practitioner. She said things were looking good. Her tumor markers in her blood were going down, but they are still in the normal range. They were also in the normal range when Leanne was diagnosed the 2nd time, so those numbers don't really mean much. However, lower numbers is still good!

While at her appointment, she ran in to her friend Ann. I know Leanne is thankful to have friends to walk this journey with her who are experiencing the same thing. God has been so faithful in that way!

   

We also got to Face Time with Leanne during chemo :) Mollie was keeping Auntie Leanne busy with her stories from the zoo.

   

My mom went to chemo with Leanne today, but they didn't get a picture. And thanks to Karen for spending the afternoon with Leo!

 Leanne has some specific prayer requests for you guys this week:

• She has been having some numbness in her fingers (a side effect from chemo) and her prayer is that it does not spread any more into her hands or feet throughout her remaining treatment.
• Stamina for Leanne to keep fighting as the fatigue wears on her
• Strength for Leanne, Ryan, Leo, and their families
• Peace as we trust in God's plan for Leanne's life

Box Out Breast Cancer

Not sure if many of you know this, but Leanne (and our sister, Aimee) are coaching an 8th grade girls basketball team. The girls played in a tournament this weekend benefiting the Minnesota Breast Cancer Coalition. Click here to read more about it.

The girls showed up for the games wearing pink socks ...

   

 And with TEAM CHIN written across their knuckles.

   

 I think they love their coach!

   

 And if that support wasn't enough, they won their bracket in the tournament!

   

 Way to go girls!

No chemo week!

Leanne has the week off from chemo! She is enjoying some extra time with Leo without feeling yucky after chemo :)

Since there is no chemo this week, I wanted to remind you of the 31 fundraiser going on this week! Check out the blog post here for more info about the fundraiser. The catalog closes online on the 13th so order before then!

31 Fundraiser

A former co-worker and a former student's mom are organizing a fundraiser to benefit Leanne & Ryan. Here is the info:

When: Friday, May 10, 2013
Where: 602 5th Ave. E Alexandria, MN 56308
Open house 4:30 - 7:00 PM

Join Heather Kapphahn and I for a big reveal of the New Thirty-One catalog and help fight cancer at the same time. We have all been anxiously awaiting the arrival of the warm sunshine. And I know you have all been anxiously awaiting the arrival of the New Summer catalog from thirty-one. Come for an evening of shopping as you look through our new catalog and help a worthy cause. Our close friend, Leanne Miller, has been battling breast cancer. All commission from this event will go directly to Leanne, Ryan, and Leo as they fight this battle.

Can't make it? Find the event at www.mythirtyone.com/amykorynta (and click on My Parties in the left margin) or at Heather's website at www.mythirtyone.com/188399 (and click on My Parties in the left margin) and shop online. Your items can be shipped directly to you.

If you live in the Alexandria area, please attend this event if you can! If not, order online before May 13th.

If you have any questions, please leave a comment!

Chemo #5

Thankfully Leanne had high counts again today so Leanne was able to have chemo. Aimee went to chemo with Leanne today!

 

Grammie got to hang out with Leo this afternoon :)

Please keep praying for:

• Peace for Leanne, Ryan, and their families
• Quick recover from the side effects of chemo
• Leo to get back on his night sleeping & napping schedule

Check back tomorrow for info about a fundraiser for Leanne & Ryan!!!!

Chemo #4 (finally!!!!)

Leanne was able to have chemo today!!!!!!!!!!!! Karen was supposed to watch Leo while my mom went to chemo with Leanne, but Leo had other plans in mind :) He had quite an unhappy morning, so Grammie Fran stayed with Leo this afternoon while Karen went to chemo with Leanne.

 

Please keep praying for:

• Strength and endurance for Leanne as she continues to fight her cancer battle
• Quick recovery from the fatigue and other side effects from chemo
• Peace for Leanne, Ryan, Leo, and their families 

And a HUGE thank you to all who are bringing meals, cleaning, running errands, calling Leanne and Ryan, doing laundry, watching Leo, visiting with Leanne, praying, supporting financially, and sending numerous texts, emails, care packages, Facebook messages, and encouraging cards. You are WONDERFUL!  Your help and support is appreciated more than you could ever know. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

"I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now." Philippians 1:3-5

Chris Tomlin

Last Sunday, Leanne & Ryan went to a Chris Tomlin concert with Leanne's parents and some friends of theirs, Ben and Jennifer. Jennifer was the one who gave Leanne and Ryan the sweet tickets and backstage passes to the BranDisa concert a few weeks ago.

   

   

It was a super encouraging and fun night!

   

In other news, Leanne's counts were high enough this morning that she didn't need a shot to boost her counts! They will be high enough for her to receive chemo tomorrow. Please pray for Leanne as she has chemo tomorrow. Check back tomorrow for an update!