34 Comments
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Vic Parker's avatar

I think you mean We are lucky ;)

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jen parker's avatar

Right -- that part's not a Me.

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Roy Vella's avatar

Assuming accuracy of the author, thought you handled that masterfully...

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Beth Murphy's avatar

This is everything— beauty, heartbreak, hope, and resilience, and also made me laugh. Like all great art, it makes me feel something I can’t fully express—- could also be because I love you so deeply and reading your pain and fear and bewilderment so vividly just breaks my heart. As ever, you remain magical and miraculous. *And, you’re right, lollipop lift was definitely NOT named by a woman. Congratulations on this important piece of writing. It’s truly amazing— and so are you. I love you.

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jen parker's avatar

Making you feel something you can't fully express -- that's all I need to hear, that's expressed just how I like. Thank you for all of this, B. And for talking me through and down and up at every turn, and always knowing the precise thing to say. Also magical, also miraculous. I love you too❤️

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Roy Vella's avatar

We appreciate the British titular phrase and, as always, your wonderful, heartfelt writing... but this one was a bit more of a nail-biter until the end. We're glad that you're well and hope that maybe we'll cross paths on the Cape!

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jen parker's avatar

My first foray into suspense. Def would've preferred it to be fiction. But thank you for reading always. And yes: the author is accurate, rounding the bend and headed for a non-fentanyl induced Cape trip very soon!

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Irena Smith's avatar

Jen, this is harrowing and beautiful and funny and I am hoping with all my heart that you continue healing and writing. xo

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jen parker's avatar

Thank you, Irena❤️And guess what I read in every nervous waiting room during my career of Appointments?? Your book! So good. Felt like you were sitting there beside me telling me a story. And that proved quite soothing.

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Andrea Higgins's avatar

What a piece! You articulate a horrifically memorable experience with perspective and humor (keys to life) - a personal gift since I have had my own diagnosis and more. As survivors, I like to think we become more soulful and clear headed and b.s. intolerant!

Either way, heal fully and put your feet up more this summer. ❤️

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jen parker's avatar

Thank you, Andrea❤️ Sad you've been through similar but happy that you are also lucky. And I'm concerned: my bs intolerance was already basement low. Not sure what will happen now...

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Sophia's avatar

Thank you for sharing. So glad we got to meet so I could put a face to this beautifully well-written post.

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jen parker's avatar

Thank you, Sophia❤️

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Lauren Altbaier's avatar

Wow. This one caught me off guard. But it was as witty and brilliant and poignant as every other one. But deeply brave and personal. Thank you for sharing. For so many reasons 🩵

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jen parker's avatar

Yes-- not the usual fare. Didn't mean to shock beloved readers; but then again, cancer is a notorious off-guard catcher. Thank you for always reading and writing, Lauren❤️It floats me.

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Jenese's avatar

Sending you and the family lots of love. Thank you for sharing your story— it will be the nudge many need to get a mammogram 💕

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jen parker's avatar

Thank you, Jenese ❤️A nudge for the smush! I'm making t-shirts ;)

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Michele Oravec's avatar

Vulnerable, real and witty as always. Thank you for sharing and thank god you're ok. xo

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jen parker's avatar

Thank you, Michele❤️

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Karen Enich's avatar

Beautifully written, as always Jen. I know all too well how that cancer diagnosis can rock your world to its very core - I remember my own diagnosis 33 years ago. But there ARE happy outcomes even after that terrible shock - and your story is one of them. The fact that you could share your story so masterfully will save someone’s life! And , as Vic said, WE are lucky!

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jen parker's avatar

So happy your story is also a happy one. And, fine, I'll admit it: Vic is right. WE are lucky, for certain. But we are also just a little sad to have missed that gorgeous and extra happy wedding. Loved all the pics and stories❤️

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Chloe Warner's avatar

Oh JP, I’m so sorry you had to go through this. So many true and beautiful words here, you’re funny and you’re lucky but you’re also a star. Sending to someone who needs to read it right now. 🤍

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jen parker's avatar

Thanks, friend. Please do keep sending and sending. Current stats say 6 out of 10 readers check their last mammogram and/or book an overdue one. Let's keep sending that figure (which is a back-of-the-napkin ballpark) up and up !!

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Marina Casey's avatar

Jen Parker once again your sharing reaches so many. Wishing you health and happiness always xoxoxoxo

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jen parker's avatar

Thank you, Marina ❤️ Lucky for a community of supportive friends like you!

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April's avatar

Your writing is funny, vulnerable and always compelling. I wish it wasn’t a thing that happened but I so appreciate that you shared your writing about it.

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jen parker's avatar

Thank you for everything, my best friend at the bottom of the sea.

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Marci Riley's avatar

So beautifully written - thank you for sharing your experience. Sending healthy prayers and support your way ❤️🙏

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jen parker's avatar

Thank you, Marci, for always reading❤️and for the well-wishes!

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Jen Pleasants's avatar

Wow.I am sooooo glad you caught it early, but am really sorry you had to go through all of that. Your funny humor gracefully attacked this scary disease that got way too personal. I am sure your article will save a life. Sending you and your family so much love and light.

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jen parker's avatar

Thank you, Jen. So gratified to have already heard from so many readers who've been prompted to book overdue mammograms after reading. Would love to think my story could fuel a whole bunch of life-saving early detection.

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jen parker's avatar

Done. I’m getting t shirts made.

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