What's Going On? January 10, 2022

What's Going On?

In November, Molly was diagnosed with Stage 1(B) uterine leiomyosarcoma (uterine LMS), based on the pathology results following a hysterectomy to treat what was thought to be a benign submucosal uterine fibroid (usually uterine fibroids are not cancerous). Right away, surgery to remove ovaries was set for January 11th, since female hormones tend to encourage tumor growth.

Unfortunately, updated pre-op scans in early January showed that another tumor had grown in her pelvis since the November hysterectomy. Given the rapid pace of that tumor’s appearance and growth, the diagnosis was thus updated to Stage 4. Accordingly, the surgery for January 11th will attempt to remove the tumor, any other problematic issues possible, in addition to still removing her ovaries. This will take place at The James Cancer Center at Ohio State University and surgery will be performed by Dr. David O’Malley.

Molly has met with every notable expert in the country regarding uterine leiomyosarcoma, from gynecological-oncologists to sarcoma specialists; while this is a rare cancer and every case is different, she is in good hands.

Unsurprisingly, she is embracing her new reality and applying her incredible intellectual curiosity to this disease, and is already having an outsized impact in the community. She is passionately consuming, understanding, and synthesizing the latest information and data about this cancer, advocating for herself with vim and vigor, and actively helping others in the diagnosed and survivor community come together to do the same.

Her overall cancer treatment plan is still TBD but could include chemotherapy, radiation, and/or hormone therapy.

We know this is a lot to process and that supporting a loved one like Molly through this time is not without its own personal challenges. We encourage her community to connect with each other, lean on each other for support, and do whatever it takes to work through difficult thoughts and feelings together.

What can I do to help?

The best way to support Molly and her family is to:

1) Rely on this site and the ‘care communication team’ for situational updates

2) Reach out to Molly and Liam directly and often, with words of encouragement and sharing how it’s going in your world generally – they like to hear about how you are doing, keep a connection not solely based on the disease, and laugh like normal times! You may not get a response, but the love will be palpable for them!

3) Support Molly, Liam, Fiona, and Nora by sending money directly via Venmo: @Molly-Nichols-9 or PayPal: nicholsmolly@gmail.com. This will help them with everything from groceries, meals,  household expenses, lodging, and health care costs to future expenses that are currently unforeseen. Direct, personal Venmo/PayPal transactions ensure your money is going fully toward the cause!

4) Tactfully and naturally spread the word and point people to this site.

5) If you want to send her a get-well card or physical healing well-wish of any other type, it’s totally welcome and encouraged. Her address is:
2553 Glen Echo Drive
Columbus, OH 43202

What isn’t as helpful?

As you might understand, there is a lot to manage and keep focused on in service to fighting the disease versus managing lots of others’ emotional needs, and so the request is to stick to the above tips to channel your love and support. We will share updates if additional needs arise! If you think of something loving and creative, it’s OK to reach out to Molly and Liam directly; the request is to not overwhelm them with asks about how to help (that’s what this site is for :).

What about info & resources I’ve found (research, news, clinical trials, etc.)?
Given the rare nature of uterine LMS, any new information is helpful. For now, please hold tight on the best way to send it over (we are going to work on a streamlined place for getting those resources to Molly!

What if I want to visit?
Currently, there is a lot going on in Columbus. The months ahead, once things become quieter, might be better for visiting. Stay tuned!

I just have a unique question and want it answered.

We know sites like this can be unsatisfying since they can’t answer everyone’s specific question or scenario. If you have anything you want clarity on, it’s a safe space to ask! Please email [emiliecole@gmail.com] and she will help get you an answer.

XO,

Emilie