Vicky Idema, a loving wife and devoted mother, has always found joy in life's simple pleasures. Married to her soulmate John for 34 years, their bond spans nearly four decades. They have two beautiful children: Josh, 25, and Jessica, 30. The Idema family has always cherished their time together, whether gathering for family cookouts or enjoying Saturday night bonfires.
When their children were younger, the family frequently explored Michigan through camping trips, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Nowadays, Vicky and John enjoy quieter times, savoring good meals with friends and family.
Vicky's hobbies reflect her love for nature and the beauty of the world around her. She finds peace in gardening, canning her homegrown goodies, and capturing breathtaking sunsets and sunrises. Autumn is her favorite season, with its vibrant colors often bringing her to tears, a testament to the beauty she believes God creates.
However, in December 2023, Vicky's world changed forever. After her annual mammogram in late November, she received a call for a follow-up on her right breast. On December 20, an additional mammogram and ultrasound revealed a concerning spot, leading to a biopsy on December 22. The wait over Christmas was excruciating, and on December 27, Vicky received the devastating news: she had breast cancer. The diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma, a hormonal type of cancer, rocked her entire family.
Consulting with Dr. Sevensma, a general surgeon, Vicky, decided on a lumpectomy with lymph node resection to ensure the cancer hadn't spread, followed by radiation therapy and possibly hormonal therapy. Reflecting on her journey, Vicky suspected that the hormonal IUD she had been prescribed for post-menopausal bleeding in June 2023 might have played a role in her diagnosis. Following her surgeon's advice, she had the IUD removed immediately.
On January 19, 2024, Vicky underwent surgery. Thankfully, her cancer tumor was only 5 mm in size, giving her a favorable prognosis. After six weeks of healing, she began radiation therapy on March 6, enduring 16 sessions over four weeks. Although the radiation treatment was painful, Vicky's determination saw her through. She worked during this period to keep her mind occupied but took time off after surgery and radiation to heal.
An incredible support system marked Vicky's journey. Her family, friends, and even her patients at work provided unwavering support. Neighbors and best friends brought meals, and colleagues offered her thoughtful gifts. This outpouring of love and care was a humbling and uplifting experience for her.
Three months post-radiation, Vicky is on the road to recovery. While she still experiences fatigue, she remains optimistic. Her medical oncologist's consultation led her to forgo hormonal chemotherapy due to low recurrence risk, as confirmed by Genomic Health testing. Instead, Vicky focuses on weight loss to reduce her chances of recurrence, finding success with Weight Watchers.
Vicky's faith, family, and friends are her pillars of strength. Her relationship with God and the love surrounding her keep her grounded and hopeful. She advises others facing cancer to lean on their support systems and to take time to appreciate life's little moments.
As she awaits her follow-up scan in October, Vicky remains prayerful and hopeful for a future free from cancer. Her journey has changed her perspective on life, emphasizing the importance of relationships and gratitude. Her story is one of resilience, love, and unwavering hope for many more years of life's simple yet profound joys.
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