In February of 2014, at age 33, I was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. My cancer is categorized as stage 4 because the cancer has metastasized to my liver. My son, Jeremiah, is 9. My step son, Briton, passed away in 2011 after an ATV accident. My husband and I work for St. Clair Winery, a family run business that we have helped grow and also grown up in professionally. We love St. Clair Winery, their product, the process, the owners and the staff with with all of our hearts.
I was born and raised in Las Cruces, New Mexico, where I still live. I graduated from Mayfield High School and bleed green and gold. Go Trojans! I met my husband at New Mexico State University while we were both obtaining our MBAs. We love our Aggies.
Due to the nature of my cancer, I will be receiving some sort of treatment/chemotherapy for the rest of my life. It’s quite likely that this disease will take my life. But until then, I will take you on the journey with me. There will be highs and lows in my reflections, but hopefully my natural sass and humor will keep you entertained. Until my diagnosis I lived a happy life filled with friends (who have become family), food, football and fun. I’d be doing myself and those around me no justice if I didn’t continue that.
I have come to learn that you #beatcancer by the way you live. Mine is filled with love, laughter and adventure.
Welcome aboard.
All my love,
Lori
The Big C in LC 
I’m so happy that you can find joy in a tragic situation. I had an uncle that was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and refused to fight and perished sick and painfully. I believe with support there is hope and where there is hope there is peace and where there is peace there is happiness. You seem to be the person who can smile through tears and that amazes me. I pray for a full recovery. In Jesus name.
So glad you followed your heart and bought that Corvette. Every time I see one, I will think yo you. Hugs.
Hey, Lori,
You may or may not remember me. I am one of your cousins from Albuquerque. The last time we spoke was in the year 2000 after I moved to Los Angeles.
My mom forwarded me your blog through another one of your cousins, and though I am very shocked to read what you have been going through the past couple of years, I am happy that she sent this blog along.
I know that this battle has not been easy, and you have had to make some tough decisions. However, I am very happy to know that you’ve got a wonderful and supportive family there to help you through it all!
Way to stay positive! You’ve got my support.