Allow me to introduce you to my amazing wife. Many of you may already know Stacey is amazing but most don’t know that she was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer in late July of 2016. From the outset, Stacey chose to keep her cancer private only telling our children and closest family members. Why you may ask? Well, Stacey has never wanted to be the center of attention. She didn’t want anyone to feel sorry for her. Stacey was determined to beat cancer and live a normal life. So far, so good.
Treatment began in September with surgery at Essentia Health in Duluth, MN followed by chemotherapy in October at the wonderful Northwest Wisconsin Cancer Center in Ashland, WI. By Halloween she had lost her hair and was wearing a wig. Thanks to the fine people at La Peinado Salon in Superior, no one ever seemed to notice it wasn’t her true hair.
In September Stacey was poised to assume the position of President-Elect of the Realtor’s Association of Northwestern Wisconsin. Not yet knowing how Stacey would respond to treatment, I convinced her to postpone taking on this additional responsibility for one year. The Realtor organization was gracious enough to accommodate our request. In retrospect, that probably wasn’t necessary. Stacey has tolerated treatment with amazing ease and strength; never once getting sick and maintaining a full work schedule. I don’t know if there is a record for such a thing but in the 7 months since her diagnosis, Stacey has sold 25 properties. A record in my book!
We cherish every day and make sure to take time for family and fun. This winter included a weekend in Chicago with the kids over Christmas, a handful of skiing trips to Indianhead and a wonderful week at the beach. Stacey is back to riding her horse twice a week and life is good.
We feel very fortunate to have the Cancer Center so close to home. The care and comfort provided by the doctors and nurses is exceptional and inspiring. We are grateful for the support of family, friends and our team at McKinney Realty.
Over time, word spread to friends through our church and the real estate network to some extent, but not widespread. Why share this information now? Well, despite receiving annual mammograms, Stacey’s cancer went undiagnosed until she discovered a lump during a self-exam. We want to stress the importance for women to receive regular mammograms and perform self-exams. For women with dense breast tissue, or if you receive “call-backs,” be sure to ask about further diagnostic tools such as ultrasound or MRI. Not all breast cancers are visible via mammogram.
Further, we want to convey that a cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence but one of the many challenges we face in life. Stacey has overcome this challenge by tackling it head-on. Her doctors attribute her good result to a positive attitude and staying active.
Stacey’s treatment is just about complete and her hair is coming back. She has grown fond of her new aerodynamic look and it might be time for new business cards and profile pics as I have a feeling the new style will stick.
Stacey, I have always admired your upbeat ways and success in more than work. Keep your chin up and I wish you well.
So happy to hear you are doing well, Stacey. FYI I was diagnosed Stage 4—4 years ago. Today, thanks to the great care I got at Essentia, I am feeling good and moving forward. Also I am a big fan of the NW Cancer Center in Ashland. What a wonderful place with the most exceptional people. Amazing doctors, nurses and personnel. Everyone there is kind and caring. Thanks for being an inspiration to us all and best wishes for a long and loving life. Susan
Thank you for sharing this post. I had no idea Stacey was going through this. Found out on Sunday at church. She is indeed an inspiration with her steadfast determination and hard work rising above challenges. Thinking of you and your family. Thanks again. You are all so wonderful.
Stacey is amazing amazing person!!! She is a very strong person and I’m not surprised she is beating cancer. I did not know and now owe her cards, love, and some wise cracks. Positive energy affects oneself and the healing process.
Stacey, I had NO idea!! You got this girl! You are a strong woman and are an inperation to all of us. Hugs to you girlie and use your horses as your therapy!
Stacey,
I could say so much…you are amazing to so many..daughter, wife, mother, aunt ,uncle, etc and to me as many..a “very special friend and inspiration!”. Continued prayers as you continue on your journey.
Beautiful post, Scott. You and Stacey handled this episode with grace.
I knew you would beat this Jones, We are all so relieved. I told you way back that you were a little toughie!!!
Thank you for that wonderfully written post about your absolutely amazing wife. I can’t begin to express my admiration for your whole family’s determination and work to heal from all you have been faced with. It is truly been a great and challenging effort to overcome all you have the short period of time you have been given to do so. If there is anything you need help with, I would do anything to do so, please let me know. We truly appreciate all you are, all you do, and all you have accomplished!! God Bless you and your family, and may Stacy heal ~~ like the rock star she is ~~ in stellar fashion:):) You guys are truly an inspiration!!
Stacey, what an inspiration you are to others battling this terrible disease. It has been so much fun getting to know you and your family over the years when with worked at your food station for the Birkie. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Hi Stacey & famiily- so sorry to hear of the bout with cancer. We are all too familiar with it in our family & with friends.
You are indeed a positive attitude person who will beat it & go on enjoying your wonderful life in the Northwoods of WI
The Penmans in Colorado are hoping & praying for your best success & great treatment to beat this permanently. You’ll do it!!😊🙏🏻💌