A Hull Lotta Love

Dear Friends and Family, Thank you so much for joining us on this journey. We want to share an overview of what has happened so far—our story to this point. In mid-January 2026, Brigit began experiencing discomfort in her left breast. There were additional symptoms that led her to contact her physician and go in for an appointment. The doctor prescribed antibiotics for a possible infection, but also sent her for a mammogram—something Brigit has faithfully done every year. That scan revealed a mass. What followed happened very quickly: a mammogram, sonogram, and biopsy. Then came a call from her doctor, and a same-day visit to meet with her—on a holiday. A frightening possible diagnosis of inflammatory breast cancer led Brigit directly to the Chico Oncology office. There, we were connected with Dr. Mazj—the very doctor who has helped others we love. He has been both highly skilled and deeply caring. He quickly referred us to a surgeon for an exam, as well as to a wonderful plastic surgeon. After several visits with the Chico team, and with their encouragement, we traveled to the Stanford Cancer Center in Emeryville. There, we attended a class and met with three outstanding doctors. All three have now joined our oncology team alongside Dr. Mazj. For this, we are incredibly grateful—truly, huzzah! By this point, Brigit’s and my heads were spinning, and our hearts were tired. A dear friend generously blessed us with a three-night stay at their VRBO in Bodega Bay, where we were able to rest and recharge. While there, Brigit began taking a hormone blocker in hopes of slowing the cancer. However, it soon became clear that the aggressiveness of the cancer required a stronger approach. Surgery was scheduled, and then canceled, as the medical team determined that Brigit needed the “big guns” first—chemotherapy. Chemo needed to begin as soon as possible and will continue for at least four months. It is likely to be followed by radiation and surgery. We are learning that plans can change quickly, and that staying informed is essential. Throughout all of this, the medical teams we have encountered have been extraordinary. Their care, compassion, and dedication have been remarkable. It is clear they do this work because they truly want to make a difference. The love and kindness we have experienced has meant so much to us. Today marked the beginning of a long road—a steady, uphill climb in the weeks ahead. We are so blessed by all of you. Your love is truly felt, and it strengthened us in a powerful way today. Brigit received her first treatment at the Oncology Fusion Center in Chico. We are now in phase one of a comprehensive chemotherapy plan that includes the drug often nicknamed “The Red Devil.” It is a powerful treatment and will be very hard on our dear Brigie. But she is strong. She is held up by the Almighty—and by all of you, the hands of God—holding her up, hugging her, and reminding her she is not alone. I feel those same hands as well. It is difficult to express how much that means to us. We have even begun to reframe “The Red Devil” as “The Holy Fire”—a reminder that even in something so difficult, God is at work. This will be a hard season, but we are walking it together—with you. One small request: please don’t hesitate to reach out. We never want anyone to feel unsure about texting or calling. Messages are always welcome—Tim especially appreciates texts 😊. Visits to our home are welcome, but we ask that they be scheduled ahead of time. Because Brigit’s immune system will be compromised, we kindly ask that anyone who is even slightly sick (cold symptoms, etc.) wait until they are fully well before visiting. Please don’t pull away out of concern for bothering us—we truly need you. Please visit this page often as we'll update as we go along, and we want you to all join in comments here too! Marian Gage, we want to thank you so much for setting up this wonderful place of connection! Love from us, Tim & Brigit