What I Will Be Doing on Christmas Break

 

 

 

I’ve been scarce on my blog and social media the past few weeks. I’m sorry. As I consider you my friends, allow me to fill you in.

At the beginning of November I had a small spot taken off my left shoulder. To the surprise of my doctor and myself it turned out to be melanoma. A few days later I met with a plastic surgeon. He recommended I have surgery to ensure wider margins and no lurking melanoma cells. On December 16 I will have this surgery. I will be sidelined for a few days up to two weeks afterwards. The girls and Caleb will be preparing Christmas dinner! I will be sitting on the sidelines and ready to offer advice or support–if the need it!

After we scheduled the surgery, I set to work on my goal to finish this semester of school and be totally ready for Christmas by December 16. I have been working my plan. I finished class yesterday and am almost ready for Christmas. As a result, keeping up with you all has suffered.

I am okay with my surgery and diagnosis. The doctors are positive that, if all comes back clean from the lab and I follow their instructions, I will have good health. The surgery and protective measures afterwards are part of keeping the body God gave me in good shape. This body is all I have to take me through this life.

However, all this might have avoided if I had taken care of myself. I take care of my insides with a healthy diet and exercise. Why did I ignore my outsides—my skin? I didn’t think it would happen to me. I’m not a tanner. I am outside to enjoy outside activities, not to tan. And I rarely used sunscreen.

All that has changed. Immediately I followed doctor’s orders and switched to a foundation with sunscreen. My summer wardrobe will include a hat and long skirts (so glad they’re in style!). I will do my best to never go outside without sunscreen.

Over the next couple of weeks my girls and I will keep you up on my “quick” recovery and the fun of having everyone here for Christmas.

I wish you and your family a wonderful Christmas holiday. Thanks so much for reading and keeping up with me!

Merry Christmas,

Brenda

 

Brenda Garrison is an author and speaker who empowers women with the confidence to live their calling. Brenda is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Ministry Leadership with a Concentration in Women’s Ministry at Moody Bible Institute. She and her husband, Gene, are the parents of three young adult daughters and live near Metamora, IL.

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