Need to get word to the boys schools

Kids help to provide levity to situations that are otherwise just terrible. On my list of people to inform about Liz were the teachers and counselors at their schools - Kings Park and Kings Glen. I asked a friend to get the word out in the event the boys needed to talk or just needed support.

Well, before a simple phone call could be placed, Carter walked into his classroom and is asked the normal morning question "Good morning Carter how are you today?" Out of the mouth of the little redhead comes "My mom has cancer," and with that he took off his backpack and was ready for class. I was sorry that the teacher had to find out that way, but, in one sense, I think they are used to kids that age simply speaking what is on their mind.

Harrison had a much different experience. His teacher was already informed and she pulled him aside during the day to talk to him. She explained that she had breast cancer seven years ago and was now healthy. That really did wonders for Harrison as he shared the news with us that evening. What a wonderful thing she did for him.

Oh to be 6 or 9 again

We found out on Monday that Liz was diagnosed with breast cancer - now the hard part telling the kids.

While I was at work Liz talked to the boys. They both took the news as well as a 6 & 9 year old could given their knowledge. I did not know that she had told them until later that night when I was leaving soccer practice with Carter. He asked "who is putting us to bed tonight?" - in our house there is often only one right answer and his question is more probing than sincere. I explained that I would be and he came back with "Why? Because mom has cancer?" I went on to tell him "no" because I was just going to give mom a break tonight because she had a long day. I asked if he had any questions or wanted to talk. He told me that he knew mom was going to be ok, and I realized shortly after that "talk" that the word peanut butter meant more to Carter than the word cancer... Oh to be 6 again.


While Harrison was finishing his homework, I asked him if he had talked to mom about anything today. He explained that she had shared with him the news about cancer and that she was going to have to go to the hospital but that she would be fine. I asked if he had any questions and he replied "No dad, but you know, this is going to be a messy thing and it won't just be as easy as cherry flavored Benadryl"... Oh to be 9 again.

Some Pictures to bring a smile to your face

This is a shot of the boys this summer at the beach.













This is a shot of the boys on the 1st day of school.

Tough News

We found out yesterday that Liz has been diagnosed with breast cancer. She recently found a small lump which was biopsied last week. We are meeting the doctor this Friday to learn the path forward. Our initial meeting last Thursday with the oncologist was very optimistic. We know that a tough road is ahead but with your prayers we are confident we will get through this.

After an initial reaction I am guessing you are wondering what you can do. Below are some options:
- Post comments on this blog - they provide a way for you to express your feelings and share in this journey with others
- Check the blog often - this is how we intend to keep everyone in the loop
- Send thoughts of encouragement and support to Liz through email (lizdevoll@gmail.com) or snail mail (5604 Castlebury Court, Burke, VA 22015)
- Check out www.komen.org for more information about breast cancer awareness and prevention and for tips about how to support loved ones who are fighting breast cancer