The Ups and Downs of Healing

 Radiation Update - May 21st

Our home has been filled the most beautiful bouquets of flowers. Thank you to everyone who has stopped by, sent messages, cards, prayers, and encouragement—you truly brighten my days more than you know.

Radiation treatments have come with both ups and downs. The process itself is similar to getting an X-ray, just with a much stronger dose of radiation. Overall, it’s fairly simple—aside from having to go every day. The actual radiation is quick and not painful; the longest part is getting me lined up in the exact same position each time so the treatment is as precise as possible.  

When I first lie down (on a table that is definitely not cushioned), they position me using a mold for my legs. A cushion is placed between my feet, which are then secured to keep me from moving. From there, they align green laser lights with the three small tattoos I have to ensure everything is positioned correctly. Once they leave the room, they take images, adjust the table’s height and angle based on my simulation session, and then begin the radiation. The machine moves around me, targeting my lower back and left hip. After that, they come back in, reposition me using a fourth tattoo, and repeat the process—this time focusing on a spot in the middle of my back that has also been causing pain.

Mother's Day Plant

During the first few treatments, my biggest complaint was increased pain. Dr. Weyers had warned us this might happen as the treatment essentially “agitates” the cancer cells. Over Mother’s Day weekend, we kept things low-key. I was still moving slowly, and although they suggested a cane, I wasn’t quite ready for that. Thankfully, Andy and the kids were right there to help me get around. On Saturday, my friend Rosie came and spent the day with me. We did a little shopping and I finally made it out to the Gingerbread House in New Berlin for lunch—such a cute little spot!

Cuddling my 'mini me' on Mother's Day!

The following week brought extreme fatigue and nausea. My appetite dropped, and about 20–30 minutes after eating, I would feel sick. I tried saltine crackers with a bucket nearby, just in case. I felt weak—and honestly, I felt angry. I found myself questioning why I had to go through this again. Nights were especially hard. I couldn’t get comfortable in bed, couldn’t sleep on my sides, and the pain made rest nearly impossible. I felt miserable and cried a lot during that stretch.  

After meeting with Dr. Weyers, I was given anti-nausea medication, which helped at first. However, after a few doses, my tongue started to feel numb and thick, which made me wonder if I was having an allergic reaction. Since I’m not allergic to anything, it caught me off guard. We switched medications the next day, and that has been working much better. 

On Friday, May 15th, my best friend Kelly came down and spent the day with me. We managed to get almost all of my flower pots planted, which felt so good to accomplish. Later, our friend Stacy stopped by with Papa Murphy’s pizza and shared a few drinks with Andy—I think he really needed that 😊

By Saturday, May 16th, I was moving around much more comfortably. My limp was gone, the nausea felt under control, and although my back still hurt, I was hopeful things would continue improving—especially since my hip was starting to feel better. That day, I was able to go with Gavin to take pictures for his senior prom. It was a hot one for wearing a suit, but he looked incredibly handsome—though I may be a little biased 😊

  

On Monday, May 18th, I went in for my 9th treatment. I was feeling better, and my friend Nicole took me to my appointment. Afterward, we walked down to the neighborhood beach and back. Between the conversation and fresh air, I didn’t even realize we had walked two miles. It had been a long time since I was able to do that. It felt so good!

Tuesday, May 19th, my parents came down again to help with appointments. My mom joined me in meeting with a dietician—we asked a lot of questions and left reassured that I was already doing many things right, with just a few small tweaks to make. Later that day, I made it to a Park View track meet. Being there, hugging my athletes, and cheering them on filled my heart in a way I can’t fully describe. Coaching has always been something I love so much. Seeing some of them wearing “Meinecke Strong” shirts made it even more special.

That night, though, I was completely exhausted. Even so, I couldn't get my mind to shut off. At this point I got out of bed—possibly trying to get my watch to monitor my sleep—and something happened. I don’t know if I fainted or simply collapsed from weakness. I remember calling out for help and being face down on the floor, unable to move my arms or legs. Andy helped me back into bed, and slowly, the feeling returned.  

There are a lot of possible explanations. I may have taken too much pain medication—I took one after the meet, one before bed, and possibly another without realizing it. I had also pushed myself quite a bit over the previous two days with the long walk and standing for hours at the meet. Maybe it was a perfect storm of exhaustion, stress, and everything else my body is going through. We’re not entirely sure.

I am so incredibly thankful for my parents and the miles they continue to travel to be here for me. I’ve often thought about how hard it must be to watch your child go through something you can’t fix. Thank you for your strength, your love, your tears, and your constant support. I will always be your little girl, no matter what. I love you, Mom and Dad!

As I wrap this up, I’m reminded that fighting cancer is incredibly hard. The emotions are all over the place—anger, fear, stress, sadness—but also strength, positivity, gratitude, hope, and faith. Not just for me, but for everyone walking this journey alongside me—my family, my friends, my students.

I will continue to lean on all of you through every high and low.

You are my community.
You are my strength. 💛

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” — Psalm 46:1
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13
The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace.” — Psalm 29:11
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.” — Isaiah 43:2