Monica in her room at the hospital following her surgery. Because of the size of the fibroid which was discovered on her uterus, the doctors performed a partial hysterectomy. The surgery was successful, but the recovery was more difficult and much longer than Monica expected. The children were glad that school was "cancelled" during this time, but were greatly upset that they could not sit on their Mom's lap following surgery.

During this month, in addition to Laura's ongoing radiation treatments and our volunteering at Suburban Bible Church, our family was also faced with an unexpected challenge. Doctors discovered a very large fibroid on Monica's uterus which required surgery. In spite of it all though we also enjoyed some great family times together. We returned to our Autumn tradition of visiting an apple orchard (when we are in America) and also celebrated Caleb's 7th birthday.

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The Matthias Family > Laura in the waiting room at the hospital. Every Monday through Friday this month, Laura had her radiation treatments at Chicago's Mercy Hospital. It was generally a rather short (30 minute) trip to downtown Chicago, and each treatment only took 10-15 minutes, but having to go so often tended to wear Laura out.

The Matthias Family > Monica in her room at the hospital following her surgery. Because of the size of the fibroid which was discovered on her uterus, the doctors performed a partial hysterectomy. The surgery was successful, but the recovery was more difficult and much longer than Monica expected. The children were glad that school was "cancelled" during this time, but were greatly upset that they could not sit on their Mom's lap following surgery.

The Matthias Family > Caleb getting a haircut at our local barbershop, George's Gentlemans Shop. George is now the only one he will let cut his hair! :)

The Matthias Family > Corrie Mae and Caleb in with the pumpkins!

The Matthias Family > We were joined at the orchard this year by Monica's parents and her sister's family as well.

The Matthias Family > The kids eating their apples fresh-off-the-trees!

The Matthias Family > Our family at Royal Oak Farms (http://www.royaloakfarmorchard.com/) located in Northeastern IL. Our visits there have become a family tradition! This Christian-owned orchard operates a Christian bookstore and giftshop, restaurant, playground, and petting zoo with, of course, an apple orchard and pumpking patch.

The Matthias Family > I had to include a silly shot!

Monica in her room at the hospital following her surgery. Because of the size of the fibroid which was discovered on her uterus, the doctors performed a partial hysterectomy. The surgery was successful, but the recovery was more difficult and much longer than Monica expected. The children were glad that school was "cancelled" during this time, but were greatly upset that they could not sit on their Mom's lap following surgery.