The battle begins...
As you already know, my mom is a fighter. She is a strong willed, loving, caring, and generous person who is beautiful inside and out. This August, she was diagnosed with Bronchitis after several weeks with a cough. Bronchitis eventually led to Pneumonia which just wasn't going away. After an odd ankle swelling, more tests showed that there might be more to the story. After over a week of waiting, we found out that she has been diagnosed with Adenocarcinoma. In our terms, lung cancer. In the next week she will undergo a PET scan and an MRI to look for possible spreading. The results of these tests will determine the course of treatment which will be given to us on Wednesday.
My mom fully believes in the power of prayer and right now she needs positive thoughts and prayers sent her way. Positive messages, words of hope, funny stories, and silly little reminders of love and support is what she needs. Please leave comments, send texts, emails or phone calls to help keep our positive attitude and spirits that she will not only start fighting this cancer but beat it.
Comments (56)
We love you Cris!! Positive though and prayers sent your way !! Xoxoxoxxoxoxo
Cris, you always handle life with such grace, I know our Heavenly Father is wrapping you in his arms. I pray that your family is showered with strength and peace as you walk through these next days together. In Proverbs 3:5 we are told to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart amd lean not on your own understanding..." We don't often understand the purpose of what we face so we need to trust that God has a plan for us. I once was discussing with a 5 year old student "the important things in life, such as; working hard; telling the truth and doing what your teacher says to do ,etc" when he interupted my 'words of wisdom' by saying "the importantest thing in life is family" and no truer words were spoken. God bless you Cris.
Cris, I am not much of a writer but I guess I am proof of what a large network of friends you have. Suz and I will be thinking of you every day. If you or your family should need anything we have access to, please call. Rich 716-474-1517. Joe, I will be thinking of you as well. Please take us up on this offer. One saying I have always liked is, The longest journey starts with a single step. I feel We are blessed to know you and your family. Love and prayers are coming your way.
Cris...I am incredibly saddened over your news and your battle ahead. You are an amazingly strong woman and I know that God is with you each and every moment. Please know that you are in my prayers and thoughts and here for you in any way you need. Always remember...faith, hope and love will get you through. Romans 12:12..Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. Love you so much. Lori
Cris -- so many folks are thinking, praying, cheering for you! I am one of them....blessings. to you and your family. Exodus 15: 2 The LORD is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt him. Christie G
Cris, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Cris, The Russotti family is keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.xo
Cris, every day we see the wonderful little ones who you have taught and guided in the first year of their school life and it is obvious that you have taught them strength, independence and most of all kindness. My prayer for you is to channel the boundless energy of the littlest ones, to hear their silliest laughter in your dreams and to use the strength of your family and those around you to help you through. Thinking of you.
The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it. Fight strong! Janet Elman
Cris, What a beautiful family you have! I am so very sorry to hear about your scary news. I am praying for you and wishing you and your family strength during this difficult time. I'll especially be thinking of you on Wednesday and will pray that you get the best news possible. Hugs, Amy O
Cris, we are thinking of you and your family. Our prayers are with you, and we are wishing you strength. God is amazing, and you are strong!!! Keep the faith!
Cris and family, please know that the Quinn family is thinking of you, praying each day and hoping for the best. Know also that if there is anything we can do for any of you, please let us know. Joe has Tim's number.
Cris, you can probably just imagine the huge amount of positive thoughts and love coming from the ECS! All of the countless lives you've touched here are just a testament to your strong and amazing spirit. You are never without support! As I've said you are brave and strong and we are with you on this tough road!!
Cris, I am very sorry to hear this. I'm sending prayers and positive thoughts to you and your family!
So sorry you and your family have to go through this but God will give you strength, hope and comfort. You have been and will continue to be in our prayers. God is your refuge and your Strength, hold on to that and keep positive. I have been cancer free for 4 years now. but know very well all the emotions you are experiencing
Cris and family, we are sending positive thoughts and prayers your way. Cris you are an amazing lady and with your great strength you will beat this! Please let us know if there is anything that we can do to help in any way.
Cris, you and your family have been in my thoughts and prayers. The ECS is here for whatever you may need. Stay strong and positive knowing we are here for you.
Roger and I were so sorry to hear the news about your illness we will be thinking of you and your family thru this ordeal. You are a strong person and with lots of prayers and your wonderful family beside you you can beat this.. We will be praying for good news on Tuesday so you can start your treatment.We love you and your family and we hope for the best.in the future.
Chris, letting you know that Garrison and I say a special prayer for you to "get better soon" each and every night. Also, for you to know, you're not on this journey alone and are surrounded by true love and support!! Continued strength, love, and prayers will continue to come from our family to yours!!
Chris, its been quite a while since we have seen each other, but I want you to know that you are in my daily prayers and that you will feel the comfort, love and gentle ways of Jesus by putting your total trust in Him. You are a strong person, as I can remember admiring you when you taught kindergarten at HFS and didn't even have a classroom with all those children you had under your keep, but you managed to keep it all together with your sense of hujmor, dedication and love for those you taught. Please feel and keep the light of Jesus close to your heart in the days ahead. Miracles do happen, my friend and who better than you to show us how it's done! Goe bless you and your loving family!!
Chris, just want you to know as a cancer survivor myself my prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time
Riley, I would like to personally thank you and your entire family for inviting us into and allowing us to take part in this very private and personal journey all of you are on. I also extend an invitation in any way that may be of comfort as I too am a daughter of a mom who was diagnosed last year at this same time. Here if you need anything!
This is very sad news! Jerry and I will offer our Rosary up everyday for your mom! You are a beautiful family, and we will pray for your strength and peace, as you go through these hard days! Just know that Jesus is with all of you! God bless your beautiful mother, and your wonderful family!!!
Cancer picked the wrong girl cause you're going to kick its *** !
Cris - I have always looked up to you as long as I can remember - my beautiful cousin, such an amazing mom and I am certain the very best teacher. We are all praying for you and love you very much.
Cris, it has been a while since chatted. I have great memories of our early beginnings in the VEC. My thoughts and prays to you and your family. You have touched so many young lives and are an amazing person. Stay strong my friend. Hugs.
Mrs. Condidorio - You are thoughts and prayers. Ashlee is sending you hugs each day, squeezing the cancer out! Xoxo Erin and Ashlee Stagnitto
Cris, I agree with Deborah...picked the wrong person to mess with! We are sending our prayers to you! Sending strength and love too. XOXO. Kc, Sarah, Brody and Madison.
Cris ~ You and your family have been in my prayers daily. Isaiah 40:31 says that "those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." I am praying that God gives you renewed strength everyday. That he brings you comfort, peace and healing. Chris Tomlin wrote a song called "Our God" my favorite lyrics are...."Our God is greater, our God is stronger, God you are higher than any other. Our God is Healer, Awesome in Power, Our God." I hope this song can bring you encouragement and uplift your spirit. Sending lots of love your way....Jen
Stay strong and keep your family close. Take each step as it comes and conquer it. I'm sending you positive healing thoughts.
Well, Cuz......you are truly a powerful woman with an amazing, strong, loving family to surround you during this fight. I wish I was closer to be there in more than spirit and prayer. Please know that you have what it takes to beat this beast into the ground. I agree with Deb.......Gillen women have fortitude and I know you will KICK BUTT!!! Much love and prayer coming your way! Stay strong, family!
I will pray for your mother. I also believe in the power of prayer.
The Crossing family is praying and wishing you the best. Lots of love and hugs!
As you take on this week, here is something I have posted on my kitchen wall that may help: 10 Things God wants you to remember: 1) I believe in you. 2) I am for you. 3) I will be with you. 4) I will provide for you. 5) I will give you rest. 6) I will strengthen you. 7) I will answer you. 8) I will bless you. 9) I will not fail you 10) I will love you...always "I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me." Phillipians 4:13
Cris,You have been in my thoughts and prayers and will continue to be as well. I saw Josh this weekend and him to as well. He said he will and remembers you so fondly as one of his favorites! Lifting your whole family up in prayer. Thank you Reilly.
Praying for you Chris, every night!! I have added you to my personal prayer list. Don't be scared, or worried. God has this, just keep talking to him and he will guide you on your journey. I pray he wraps his loving, healing arms around you and your family to give you peace.ill be thinking of you and am glad I found your story. Your so blessed to have such an amazing support group. All my love, Rachel xxoo
Cris...lots of prayers every day.
Cris, my family is thinking of you and your family during this time.
My prayers are with your family. Never give up Hope and Never lose your sense of humor. Both are needed in times like this. Sending hugs.
Hi Cris, I have good news...you are now being covered in prayer from the entire universe of facebook. The weather is beautiful today and I know your family is so thankful to be able to be close to you during your fight. Trust in the good Lord...his plans are always the best....fight like a warrior....do not worry...you are loved....sending peace, hope, comfort, courage, and the ability to find a slice of humor in each day. One of my favorite verses is "Be still and know that I am God"...Go Team Cris!!!!! xxoo God Bless, Karen Varricchio
We just heard and wanted to say with all the love we can muster we will keep you in our prayers for a clear path for healing...with love from Sarah, Kate and Clara Farney (Clara had Mrs. C. for preK almost 4 years ago now!)
keeping you and your family in my prayers.
Cris- We are keeping you in our thouhts and prayers! You are a fighter and you will beat this! Xxoo!
Cheech, I have busted out the old "Team Condidorio" T-shirt, circa Chad's senior year. I will be wearing it weekly, if my wife washes it, to support you during your toughest match. You supported all your kids during their competitive battles, and now it's time for us to support you! I call out all "Team Condo" members to break out that old T-shirt and wear it with pride! I predict Cris pins cancer in the first period. Love, John
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you battle this difficult journey-you are a strong woman from a strong family and the love surrounding you will guide you through. Mike & Tammy Donahue and family
Mrs Condidorio, We are sending our love and prayers your way. Love, Gavin Ray and family
The Davis Family from Alfred-Almond has just learned of your situation and we are grieved. We are so fond of Zach. We remember how you invited the whole Alfred State College Wrestling team & parents over for a spagetti dinner after one of the tournaments. Such kindness that we haven't forgotten. Please know that that we are praying to God, the great Physician--- to shower you with wisdom, comfort and strength. We pray that God will bless you with a healing. Thank you for sharing this most difficult news as it will show folks how we can be praying. God bless you all! Isaiah 40;28-31
Good morning Cris...sending a great big ray of sunshine to bring a smile to your face...slathered in sunscreen of course...Michele Hoyt sends her good thoughts and prayers...look for some humor in the day...take care and God Bless....Karen
God will be with you every step of this journey. Stay strong
Thinking of you and sending our prayers and good wishes! You were so good to our Grace in upk (and countless others)! May all those you have taught and inspired give you strength and comfort. Hugs- The Kravetz Family.
Sending love and prayers your way as you take on the fight. You are an amazing, positive, inspiring woman who has touched so many hearts and brightened so many lives. May the encouraging words of all who love you bring you strength. Continue to find the good in people, this is such a special quality that you possess. You are blessed to have such a wonderful family to support you and stand by your side. With love and well wishes.
The Amadio family will be lifting you up in our thoughts and prayers. Our hearts and hands will be wrapping you and you family up in support and positive thoughts. Many hugs!
Dear Lord, As we start the day, I ask that you be ultra close to Cris and her entire family today. Bless the doctors and other technicians involved in today's procedures and tests. Help Cris and family be able to "do what they need to do to get done what needs to be done". We all pray for clear scans and treatable tumors. You are the great physician and are in complete control. I ask that you send love, reassurance, hope, and humor to everyone involved with team Cris. We are anticipating our miracle. Amen
Hi Cris, It's Sue Delmonico from the Primary School. This is part 2 of my cancer story. I did find that wearing wrist bands for motion sickness helped with the nausea and keeping something in my stomach at school also helped. Things like pretzels, crackers, granola bars were well tolerated. I was given meds to take for nausea and it was also part of the chemo cocktail. The wig I wore got somewhat warm, but it was it was also in the Spring, Summer and Fall. I didn't wear it at home. When the weather got colder I wore a knit hat to bed to keep my warm. Whatever works for you Cris. Take one day at a time. I have been keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers and am here anytime if you have a question or for anything. My cell phone is 585-730-2286. I saw that Nolan Redhead wrote you a beautiful letter. He and talked a little bit about our cancer experiences when he was in our building. What a great guy! Take care, Sue
Hi Cris, I don't think that the beginning of my message to you got through so I will start again. I remember you working in the Primary School and how sweet your smile was and I'm sure still is! You were always so upbeat and positive and truly loved your students. Back in 2011 I was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer. I was anxious to get on with the treatments and not let it interfere with working in the health office at school. I had 12 rounds of chemo from May to November at Sands Cancer Center in Canandaigua. It is part of the Inter Lake Oncology Group. Everyone in the group, nurses, lab techs, PA's, doctors, receptionists were absolutely wonderful! It was a relatively small group of patients went I went all having "chemo cocktails". The care givers were so upbeat and positive and kind that they made me feel that I wasn't alone and would get through this with their help. I knew that I was in good hands. They told me when my hair would fall out so that I was prepared for it. When it was coming out in bunches, I asked my son (who was 25 at the time) to bring his clippers over and shave my head. He really didn't want to and offered to shave his head as well as my husband's to support me. I vetoed that idea because I had seen them with very short buzz cuts and it wasn't a pretty sight. Cris, I decided to wear a wig to school so that I didn't have to play 20 questions with the children while working in the health office. I got the wig free from the cancer center. Take care, Sue
Cris, We love you so very much !! You exude love and joy, a constant beacon happiness and hope. When there are down times, remember to "lean on God" and you will find inner strength to power on. You gave us such a wonderful beginning for our kids, now it is our turn to give to you. Praying for you <3 Kathy and Betsy Diacatos