I'm Back: "It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog."

If you check back to my last post, you might notice it is dated February 25, 2011. Shortly thereafter, my life changed. Drastically. While finishing my administration coursework, facing my health complications head on, and transitioning into the principalship, I have tried to find balance. It has been a bit of a whirlwind and I am set on reestablishing my blog as a means of educational communication and sharing. 

The story in a nutshell: I was diagnosed with stage III breast cancer in the spring of 2011. Graettinger-Terril Schools and Communities wrapped their arms around my family, much as they do for anyone going through a difficult time. Though the treatment plan was rigorous, I continued to work with the help and flexibility of the G-T district and colleagues. After diagnosis, I went directly into 20 weeks of chemotherapy followed by a double mastectomy then radiation. As treatment was slowing, we discovered a grapefruit sized tumor and multiple smaller tumors in my ovaries; so a complete (somewhat emergency) hysterectomy followed radiation (tumors were benign). In addition to a clinical study medication, I continue to take an oral therapy medication for the next five years.

From relays to volleyball tournaments to an auction (some events planned and run by G-T students!) to meals and care packages, we were never once without support! "Team Alesch" was organized to keep friends and family informed. 

Smiling as I worked before the chemotherapy made me sleepy.

Middle and High School Students & Staff - an amazing, AMAZING group of people.

Participating in "Team Alesch" relay planned by G-T students.

Middle and High School Staff

It was amazing how the G-T troops rallied on my behalf.

These students mean the world to me. 

Cody and I at the "Team Alesch" volleyball tournament hosted by G-T students.

Minutes before my first surgery.

Family photo eight months after diagnosis.

I, along with my dad (who was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma six months after my journey began), now have 3-6 month checkups to make sure no cancer cells are invading.

I spoke at a relay event (summer, 2012), Making Strides to End Breast Cancer. I have learned and continue to learn so much through this journey. I hope to inspire others to find strength when hope is lost and to remain persistent against the odds.

Pretreatment photo marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.

The fight continues each day, but as I like to persist, 

"It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog."

(Quote by Mark Twain)

I look forward to many, many more years of education no matter what form I am educating or being educated in!