Jan has made it out of recovery. She is still a bit sleepy, but otherwise is doing great. She remembers everything and is able to retain the information she is given. Mom and Gerald have been able to visit with her and as Mom put it, "she is full of it."
Thank you for all your prayers, comments and love!
Cheryl
Showing posts with label Cancer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cancer. Show all posts
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
~Recovery Time~
The surgeon just finished talking to Gerald and Mom. Jan is in recovery now. She is awake, but sleepy. She did really well during surgery and he removed all of the tumor. The tumor showed dead tissue, but also some activity, which is what the PET scan showed. It will be a few hours before she gets out of recovery. She will not be in ICU, but in a room but will have a nurse who is only caring for her. She should move to a regular room tomorrow and get to come home Friday or Saturday.
It is our understanding that there has always been some activity at this site. The surgeon said since there is activity, they will be changing her treatment. We will know more about what comes next either the end of this week or the first of next week.
Please continue to pray that she recovers well and no problems arise from this surgery. Pray also that the next treatment is one that is well tolerated.
Mom will update me again when she has news or when they get to see Jan.
Thanks for all your prayers and support.
It is our understanding that there has always been some activity at this site. The surgeon said since there is activity, they will be changing her treatment. We will know more about what comes next either the end of this week or the first of next week.
Please continue to pray that she recovers well and no problems arise from this surgery. Pray also that the next treatment is one that is well tolerated.
Mom will update me again when she has news or when they get to see Jan.
Thanks for all your prayers and support.
~Update~
The surgery is to begin around 8:00 a.m. this morning. Jan had a great day yesterday. God answered prayers in a big way. She was not anxious at all. She had some additional testing, which included blood work and a MRI to map the exact location.
They also met with the surgeon again and they are very pleased with him. He explained everything what should occur; said her recovery will be easier and different than last time. She will not be in ICU, but will have a nurse who attends to just her. Tomorrow morning she should be able to go into a regular room and one person can stay with her all night tonight.
Jan was very upset when they saw him last week and he was very concerned and wanted to make sure that he didn't do anything that caused Jan being upset last week when she saw him.
Thank you for your prayers and I will continue to update as I have information.
They also met with the surgeon again and they are very pleased with him. He explained everything what should occur; said her recovery will be easier and different than last time. She will not be in ICU, but will have a nurse who attends to just her. Tomorrow morning she should be able to go into a regular room and one person can stay with her all night tonight.
Jan was very upset when they saw him last week and he was very concerned and wanted to make sure that he didn't do anything that caused Jan being upset last week when she saw him.
Thank you for your prayers and I will continue to update as I have information.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
~More Information~
The surgery will be Tuesday morning. It will take four to six hours. This is the surgeon's first surgery of the day. Please pray for God to work through this surgeon, that he will have steady hands, and be rested for this surgery. Jan is very nervous about having the surgeon. She said that being able to come home this weekend has been calming for her.
MD Anderson is very strict in the patient's vistors. They are only allowed 4 visitors per patient, which should be no problem, since Mom and Gerald will be there. The surgeon told Jan she should have an easier time this time since she will not be in a coma and she will know beforehand that she has had surgery.
Pray for Gerald and Mom as well as they will be alone during this surgery and recovery time, and the trip home.
Pray that Jan has a quick recovery and that all goes as planned.
I will post when I have information. I sent out an email last night to many asking prayer for Jan. I have had a tremendous response. Thank you seems so small, but thank you for joining us to readily in continuing to walk this journey with us.
Praise the LORD, I tell myself; with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. Praise the LORD, I tell myself, and never forget the good things he does for me."Psalm 103:1-2
Love and hugs!
Cheryl
MD Anderson is very strict in the patient's vistors. They are only allowed 4 visitors per patient, which should be no problem, since Mom and Gerald will be there. The surgeon told Jan she should have an easier time this time since she will not be in a coma and she will know beforehand that she has had surgery.
Pray for Gerald and Mom as well as they will be alone during this surgery and recovery time, and the trip home.
Pray that Jan has a quick recovery and that all goes as planned.
I will post when I have information. I sent out an email last night to many asking prayer for Jan. I have had a tremendous response. Thank you seems so small, but thank you for joining us to readily in continuing to walk this journey with us.
Praise the LORD, I tell myself; with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. Praise the LORD, I tell myself, and never forget the good things he does for me."Psalm 103:1-2
Love and hugs!
Cheryl
Thursday, June 25, 2009
~Tentative Decisions~
Since learning the news yesterday that the doctors at MD Anderson were recommending Jan move forward with surgery to determine whether the change in her MRI is dead tissue, she has been torn in what to do. At this time, after being armed with more information, I think she is leaning toward having the surgery.
She had the Doppler ultrasound of her legs/feet, but I have not heard what the results are yet.
Please pray for Jan as she moves forward. She has some concerns about problems caused by surgery. Pray that she is covered with an abundant of with the decision that she makes and for a successful surgery with not problems resulting from the surgery, as well as the findings to be DEAD TISSUE. Please pray that this is the answer to Jan's (and ours) prayer that the cancer be removed.
He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Isaiah 40:29 NLT
She had the Doppler ultrasound of her legs/feet, but I have not heard what the results are yet.
Please pray for Jan as she moves forward. She has some concerns about problems caused by surgery. Pray that she is covered with an abundant of with the decision that she makes and for a successful surgery with not problems resulting from the surgery, as well as the findings to be DEAD TISSUE. Please pray that this is the answer to Jan's (and ours) prayer that the cancer be removed.
He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Isaiah 40:29 NLT
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
~Results, Plans and Prayers~
Well..........let me see if I can explain the results correctly.
I'll start with what is absolutely good news. There are 2 areas. One is on top and this area is "cold," which means DEAD TISSUE. The other area, where she had surgery initially, shows dead tissue, but also shows some activity. It is unusual for the two to be different.
The oncologist believes they are both dead tissue, but to be safe, the only way to know for sure is for Jan to have surgery. Her oncologist had already hand picked a surgeon this morning and they saw him this afternoon. He said, right off the bat, that he would not do surgery, unless he absolutely believed it was necessary. I think if she chooses to have the surgery, they will go in to see what is there, remove what they can whether it is active or dead tissue.
It has been Jan's prayer that God take away the tumors/cancer. In saying that, she NEVER wanted to have surgery again. She is EXTREMELY upset. When she had her initial surgery she was in a light coma and didn't know she had surgery until it was over.
She is also having a ultrasound on her legs because her feet are swollen.
"The antidote to suffocating, stifling, stagnating fear is simple faith."
"If the Lord be with us, we have no cause of fear. His eye is upon us, His arm over us, His ear open to our prayer. His grace is sufficient, His promise unchangeable." Written by John Newton."
So don't worry, because I am with you. Don't be afraid, because I am your God. I will make you strong and will help you; I will support you with my right hand that saves you." Isaiah 41:10
"One of the greatest promises of God is that we don't have to face our fears alone. He is always with us; never will He forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).
God will:
Help you in trouble ~ Psalms 46:1-2
Provide your needs and give you peace ~ Philippians 4:6-7
Eliminate fear ~ Leviticus 26:6
Give boldness ~ Proverbs 28:1
Since we truly experience His love, we can walk boldly, with a sense of confidence to God and let Him handle all the anxieties that trouble us.
Pray that Jan has a sense of peace and comfort. Pray that God gives her what she needs to make the decision in which direction she should take. Also pray especially that Jan, but also our family will remain steadfast in Faith and that we will not give in to Fear. Nothing can rob you of joy, confidence, optimism and opportunities more quickly than a spirit of fear.
"I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge --that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:17-19
If Jan chooses to have surgery, she will have to return to MD Anderson sometime Monday for pre-operative testing with the surgery being Tuesday.
I would be so grateful if you would join up in prayer, especially for peace and comfort for Jan.
Love,
Cheryl
I'll start with what is absolutely good news. There are 2 areas. One is on top and this area is "cold," which means DEAD TISSUE. The other area, where she had surgery initially, shows dead tissue, but also shows some activity. It is unusual for the two to be different.
The oncologist believes they are both dead tissue, but to be safe, the only way to know for sure is for Jan to have surgery. Her oncologist had already hand picked a surgeon this morning and they saw him this afternoon. He said, right off the bat, that he would not do surgery, unless he absolutely believed it was necessary. I think if she chooses to have the surgery, they will go in to see what is there, remove what they can whether it is active or dead tissue.
It has been Jan's prayer that God take away the tumors/cancer. In saying that, she NEVER wanted to have surgery again. She is EXTREMELY upset. When she had her initial surgery she was in a light coma and didn't know she had surgery until it was over.
She is also having a ultrasound on her legs because her feet are swollen.
"The antidote to suffocating, stifling, stagnating fear is simple faith."
"If the Lord be with us, we have no cause of fear. His eye is upon us, His arm over us, His ear open to our prayer. His grace is sufficient, His promise unchangeable." Written by John Newton."
So don't worry, because I am with you. Don't be afraid, because I am your God. I will make you strong and will help you; I will support you with my right hand that saves you." Isaiah 41:10
"One of the greatest promises of God is that we don't have to face our fears alone. He is always with us; never will He forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).
God will:
Help you in trouble ~ Psalms 46:1-2
Provide your needs and give you peace ~ Philippians 4:6-7
Eliminate fear ~ Leviticus 26:6
Give boldness ~ Proverbs 28:1
Since we truly experience His love, we can walk boldly, with a sense of confidence to God and let Him handle all the anxieties that trouble us.
Pray that Jan has a sense of peace and comfort. Pray that God gives her what she needs to make the decision in which direction she should take. Also pray especially that Jan, but also our family will remain steadfast in Faith and that we will not give in to Fear. Nothing can rob you of joy, confidence, optimism and opportunities more quickly than a spirit of fear.
"I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge --that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:17-19
If Jan chooses to have surgery, she will have to return to MD Anderson sometime Monday for pre-operative testing with the surgery being Tuesday.
I would be so grateful if you would join up in prayer, especially for peace and comfort for Jan.
Love,
Cheryl
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
~Prayer~
Jan is on her way back to MD Anderson for her monthly testing. She will be having an MRI tonight and seeing her oncologist in the morning. Please join us as we pray for good results and safe travels.
James 5:14-15 we are told: "Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15) And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven." and in
James 5:16 we are asked to "confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed." and then told that "The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective."
In Mark 11:23-25 Jesus further instructs to forgive when we pray "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, `Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24) Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25) And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."
Only someone facing or sharing a serious sickness, pain or tragedy knows how hard it is. They know how hard it is to cope with the fear and uncertainty. They know how absurd it sounds when someone first tells them to "keep a positive attitude". They know how terrifying it is when the doubt comes. They know how hard it is to throw a mountain into the sea. But remember what Jesus told us in Matthew 17:19-20 when he said "I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, `Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." Faith as small as a mustard seed sounds a little like hope to me, and that's a good start.
Many Thanks!
Cheryl
James 5:14-15 we are told: "Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15) And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven." and in
James 5:16 we are asked to "confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed." and then told that "The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective."
In Mark 11:23-25 Jesus further instructs to forgive when we pray "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, `Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24) Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25) And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."
Only someone facing or sharing a serious sickness, pain or tragedy knows how hard it is. They know how hard it is to cope with the fear and uncertainty. They know how absurd it sounds when someone first tells them to "keep a positive attitude". They know how terrifying it is when the doubt comes. They know how hard it is to throw a mountain into the sea. But remember what Jesus told us in Matthew 17:19-20 when he said "I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, `Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." Faith as small as a mustard seed sounds a little like hope to me, and that's a good start.
Many Thanks!
Cheryl
Thursday, November 13, 2008
~Message From Jan~
I printed off all the comments left for the give away in honor of Jan on this 1 year mark. I took them with me to lunch and let Jan pick who would be the owner of the tile. I might have already told you this, but I had 2 tiles made exactly alike. I thought it only fitting to give one of them to Jan also. After drawing Christina's name, I sent all the comments home with Jan so she could read all the all the sweet sweet comments. I got an email late this afternoon from Jan that she would like me to share with all of you:
"Thank you so much for going to lunch today with me. I had a great time. Do you want these notes back? I read them all. Please thank them all from me and tell them they were all a blessing to me.
Love ya, Jan"
And, from me, thank you for always being an encouragement, for offering prayer, well.... for just being you!
Love,
Cheryl
"Thank you so much for going to lunch today with me. I had a great time. Do you want these notes back? I read them all. Please thank them all from me and tell them they were all a blessing to me.
Love ya, Jan"
And, from me, thank you for always being an encouragement, for offering prayer, well.... for just being you!
Love,
Cheryl
~One Year Later~
Here is a picture of Jan taken on Halloween last year, just a few weeks before she had emergency surgery.As I sit and think about one year ago today, it is a day I never want to relive.
I can't begin to imagine how difficult this past year has been for Jan. She has had to fight extremely hard. She was away from home while she underwent radiation treatment in Houston for 6 weeks. We were blessed that a friend shared their frequent flyer miles with us and they were able to fly home every other weekend. We have so very much to be thankful for.
God has blessed our entire family many times in this year. He has shown us many things, which I will share a few with you.
In March, 2007 we helped move Mom to the house/acre next door to Janet (their country folks.) Mom previously lived 3-4 miles from them. It had been our thoughts/hopes when the time came Mom would be able to live independently longer, if she lived closer to Janet (Donna and myself, we aren't country folks). It was very evident at the time of Mom's move, this was God's will. The house she bought and sold, neither one were put on the market. Everything just fell in place. Now, we look back and see how God had his hand in all this.
The week before 11/13 Jan had developed extremely severe headaches. Actually, she had been having headaches for some time, but not to this extent. (If you know of anyone who starts having headaches, not typical of their usual headaches, PLEASE INSIST the does a CT scan. Jan had been to doctors about these headaches, but no one ever did any testing.)
When Gerald left for work this Tuesday morning, he called Mom and asked her to go next door and see if she could get Jan to eat. If Mom had not been living next door, Gerald would not have called her and things would be different) God was at work here almost a year earlier, preparing. We thought she was having migraines and was dehydrated. When Mom went next door and talked to Jan, she responded to Mom. She had set her alarm for work, but had told me she doubted she would go. That morning she had "hit her snooze" several times. When Mom went back in after getting her something to eat, she was NOT RESPONSIVE. Still not thinking it was that serious, Mom called Gerald and he came back home. Jan's daughter-in-law works at the hospital where they were going to take her, so they called ahead and they were waiting in the ER when they arrived. The doctors were amazed that she was alive and said in the sense of "medicine" she should not be. That's God! He says Jan still has work to do.
Since they were waiting for Jan, she was rushed directly in. CT scan was done immediately followed by an MRI. The first thing I heard when I got there was she had multiple brain tumors. They were waiting on the MRI results and then were going straight to surgery.
When the neurosurgeon came and talked to us right as they were going into surgery, he said there was a lot of swelling, and this possibly could be an abscess and not a tumor. He also said he didn't know how long it would take her to come out of the coma. However, they had been giving her steroids since she got the hospital. Before surgery she was able to wiggle her toes, grasp their hands, so this was a good sign.
The surgery took 2-3 hours. She made it fine, but still we were told they didn't know how long she would be in the coma. But, during the night she would open her eyes and by early the next morning, she was out of the coma. She had no clue what she had been through. The first few days she didn't unless someone else initiated the conversation. It was very troubling because she was so quiet and different.
She was not able to retain any memory for several weeks. She was told numerous times what she had been through, but kept thinking she had had a seizure, fell and busted her head open. But, she could remember how to unhook everything after watching the nurses do. It was amazing to see the progress she made, EVERY SINGLE DAY for weeks, she improved.
She didn't want to treat at MD Anderson because she didn't want to be away from home. Not a few minutes after she went in to meet with her oncologist, she changed her mind. That's God!
I know this is kind of jumbled. I tried to condense so much that occurred in that time to just give you a glimpse, and I butchered it good.
There has been a great deal of time during the last year that Jan didn't feel good. We are thrilled that at this time, she feels better and she is "enoying life."
It is very difficult to think back to this day 1 year ago and everything that has occurred. We are truly blessed and very thankful we had the opportunity to CELEBRATE TODAY!
Jan, Mom, Donna, Jenny, me, and 2 of Jan's friends from work went to Panera Bread. It was really fun. Here are some pictures from today of Jan, Mom, Donna, and Jen.
The story doesn't end here, the fight continues! Please pray for Jan and her earthly healing. Pray she continues to feel good as she continues with treatment. Pray for peace of mind for her and our family.
Thank you all for everything!
1 Corinthians 13:13 ~ And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
Blessings!
Cheryl
Saturday, October 11, 2008
~Update on Joyce~ TSMSS~ Just Below~
Update: 7:37 p.m. Central Time
Brianna just called. The message that I thought she left last night was an old message, I guess that I hadn't listened to.
Anyway, Joyce is doing better. Her body is absorbing oxygen. They are trying to find out what type of pneumonia she has. She seems much better tonight than last night.
In regards to her cancer, the treatment so far has worked on shrinking the lung mass. BUT, everything they have tried so far has not worked on shrinking the lymph nodes. And, she has an area, on her bottom where radiation burned her skin. I will not go into detail, but she has some serious problems from this also.
Thanks again for your prayers.
Hi All,
I missed a call from Brianna late last night. BUT, her Mom's condition has improved GREATLY. Brianna was on her way home.
I know Joyce still has a long road ahead, but we can praise God today for answering prayers. Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!
As I mentioned when Joyce was first diagnosed, she is NOT a Christian. So, please continue to pray for her health, but also that she will have a change of heart.
Have a blessed weekend!
Brianna just called. The message that I thought she left last night was an old message, I guess that I hadn't listened to.
Anyway, Joyce is doing better. Her body is absorbing oxygen. They are trying to find out what type of pneumonia she has. She seems much better tonight than last night.
In regards to her cancer, the treatment so far has worked on shrinking the lung mass. BUT, everything they have tried so far has not worked on shrinking the lymph nodes. And, she has an area, on her bottom where radiation burned her skin. I will not go into detail, but she has some serious problems from this also.
Thanks again for your prayers.
Hi All,
I missed a call from Brianna late last night. BUT, her Mom's condition has improved GREATLY. Brianna was on her way home.
I know Joyce still has a long road ahead, but we can praise God today for answering prayers. Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!
As I mentioned when Joyce was first diagnosed, she is NOT a Christian. So, please continue to pray for her health, but also that she will have a change of heart.
Have a blessed weekend!
Friday, October 10, 2008
~Urgent Prayer~
UPDATE: I have talked with Brianna via text messaging, and she said her Mom, Joyce's lung are not working properly. They are giving her antibiotics. Apparently the problem is her body is not absorbing oxygen. Joyce is aware of what is going on. I gathered at this time, they are trying to find the cause of why her body is not absorbing oxygen. If I find out any more, I will let you know.
Thanks for all your prayers.
Hi All,
Earlier this week, I talked to my friend, Bri, who is Joyce's daughter. She had been hospitalized for pneumonia. She had just started on her 3rd type of chemo, as she was allergic to the second one.
I just received a call that the family had been "called in." Please pray for Bri as she travels from Oklahoma to Texas. Brianna has 2 sisters. I think Shannon may be in Texas still. But, Lindsey just had her baby last week and has been dealing with problems with her blood pressure caused by the preeclampsia. I'm not sure if Lindsey is physically able to make this trip right now.
I have a call into Bri, and will give you an update if/when I talk to her.
I have a call into Bri, but haven't been able to talk to her yet.
I know these girls will appreciate the prayers said on their and their Mother's behalf.
Thanks for all your prayers.
Hi All,
Earlier this week, I talked to my friend, Bri, who is Joyce's daughter. She had been hospitalized for pneumonia. She had just started on her 3rd type of chemo, as she was allergic to the second one.
I just received a call that the family had been "called in." Please pray for Bri as she travels from Oklahoma to Texas. Brianna has 2 sisters. I think Shannon may be in Texas still. But, Lindsey just had her baby last week and has been dealing with problems with her blood pressure caused by the preeclampsia. I'm not sure if Lindsey is physically able to make this trip right now.
I have a call into Bri, and will give you an update if/when I talk to her.
I have a call into Bri, but haven't been able to talk to her yet.
I know these girls will appreciate the prayers said on their and their Mother's behalf.
Friday, September 12, 2008
~Statistics~
Tomorrow will be 10 MONTHS since Jan was taken (emergently) to the hospital. We were lucky in that Jan's daughter-in-law, Katie works for the hospital where she was taken, and was working that day. They were on standby waiting for when she arrived. I'm sure she was seen quicker because of this. Within a few minutes a CT had been performed and reported several tumors in her brain. Next, an MRI was done and we were advised she either had an abscess or tumor. We prayer for the abscess. However, it was what we would later find out the most aggressive type of brain cancer, GBM (glioblastoma multiforme).
I tell you this today, because we did not know if on September 12, today, Jan would still be here. Why do you say is September 12 so important. It is because it is her BIRTHDAY.
Mom, Donna, Jan and myself went to lunch today for her birthday. We had a great time!
I have to run, but will be back shortly to post pics from lunch, and to relay some more history.
Blessings!
I tell you this today, because we did not know if on September 12, today, Jan would still be here. Why do you say is September 12 so important. It is because it is her BIRTHDAY.
Mom, Donna, Jan and myself went to lunch today for her birthday. We had a great time!
I have to run, but will be back shortly to post pics from lunch, and to relay some more history.
Blessings!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
~Reconciliation~
I do have an update on Joyce. She saw the local oncologist yesterday, as well as a pulmonolgist. After these appointments they were more optimistic. Tomorrow, Wednesday Joyce will be having a biopsy to find out the type of cancer, as well as a PET CT scan. Once they get these results they will know the type of cancer and if there has been progression. The 3 cm mass they had previously told her about may not be on the aorta. They also found out yesterday that when she had her physical examination last December the spot on her lungs showed up on her x-ray at that time. They, of course, are very upset with this finding as her family physician has sent her for 2 chest x-rays and reported both were fine. Joyce also has referral to M.D. Anderson, so they should be able to get an appointment very quickly.
Jan is in the midst of getting approved for a new clinical trial, checking her blood counts and I've been gathering information on the results and side effects of this new treatment.
And, my cousin is also in the midst of possibly starting a new chemo regimen for her CLL. I've been helping her with this as well. Pretty soon I may be an expert in cancer treatments. Ha! That is very unlikely to happen as it's unbelievable the treatment options and such for each specific cancer. It is very interesting.
I would ask that you remember Jan, my cousin and Joyce as they prepare for what lies ahead. Pray that they will rest in the comfort of God's arms as he directs them in fighting their cancers. Pray for WONDERFUL RESULTS and MINIMAL SIDE EFFECTS. AND, AS I MENTIONED THE OTHER DAY, PLEASE PRAY FOR JOYCE AS SHE IS NOT A CHRISTIAN. PRAY THAT GOD WILL SOFTEN HER HEART SO THAT SHE MAY COME TO KNOW HIM.
Becoming reconciled to God is a good starting point in our quest for reconciliation in all of our relationships. As Paul exhorted, “We implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God” (2 Corinthians 5:20). We are “reconciled to God through the death of His Son” (Romans 5:10).
Reconciliation in our human relationships can be a difficult process. It must begin with each person accepting accountability for his own behavior. Next, there must be an acknowledgement of wrong doing. This must be accompanied by the replacement of deceitfulness with openness and honesty in the relationship. Finally, a firm verbal commitment must be made to take the specific steps necessary to discontinue all inappropriate behavior.
Obviously, not everyone is willing to do his or her part toward reconciliation of the relationship. Indeed, attempting to reconcile with one who continues to be an abuser is not wise, nor is it God’s will. On the other hand, even when the relationship cannot be reconciled, we can still know that it certainly is God’s will for us to experience His emotional healing. Jesus Christ gives us great encouragement.
“I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).
You can't force someone to reconcile. But, for yourself you have to do what you believe God would want and just as it says above, he would want us to experience emotional healing. This can and has been a very sticky situation lately with a lot of disappointment and hurt. The full details are not needed, but I would covet your prayers. God knows the situation, as well as the feelings.
Jan is in the midst of getting approved for a new clinical trial, checking her blood counts and I've been gathering information on the results and side effects of this new treatment.
And, my cousin is also in the midst of possibly starting a new chemo regimen for her CLL. I've been helping her with this as well. Pretty soon I may be an expert in cancer treatments. Ha! That is very unlikely to happen as it's unbelievable the treatment options and such for each specific cancer. It is very interesting.
I would ask that you remember Jan, my cousin and Joyce as they prepare for what lies ahead. Pray that they will rest in the comfort of God's arms as he directs them in fighting their cancers. Pray for WONDERFUL RESULTS and MINIMAL SIDE EFFECTS. AND, AS I MENTIONED THE OTHER DAY, PLEASE PRAY FOR JOYCE AS SHE IS NOT A CHRISTIAN. PRAY THAT GOD WILL SOFTEN HER HEART SO THAT SHE MAY COME TO KNOW HIM.
Becoming reconciled to God is a good starting point in our quest for reconciliation in all of our relationships. As Paul exhorted, “We implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God” (2 Corinthians 5:20). We are “reconciled to God through the death of His Son” (Romans 5:10).
Reconciliation in our human relationships can be a difficult process. It must begin with each person accepting accountability for his own behavior. Next, there must be an acknowledgement of wrong doing. This must be accompanied by the replacement of deceitfulness with openness and honesty in the relationship. Finally, a firm verbal commitment must be made to take the specific steps necessary to discontinue all inappropriate behavior.
Obviously, not everyone is willing to do his or her part toward reconciliation of the relationship. Indeed, attempting to reconcile with one who continues to be an abuser is not wise, nor is it God’s will. On the other hand, even when the relationship cannot be reconciled, we can still know that it certainly is God’s will for us to experience His emotional healing. Jesus Christ gives us great encouragement.
“I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).
You can't force someone to reconcile. But, for yourself you have to do what you believe God would want and just as it says above, he would want us to experience emotional healing. This can and has been a very sticky situation lately with a lot of disappointment and hurt. The full details are not needed, but I would covet your prayers. God knows the situation, as well as the feelings.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
~Prayer~
About 5 years ago I became friends with a single mom who was a manicurist at a salon where I used to go. At that time she had a 3-year-old boy and needed to work evenings a couple of days a week. We made arrangements for her son to go with me to church on Wednesday nights.
In the last couple of weeks her Mom has been having some health problems which has led to testing. They received the news Friday that her Mom has lung cancer. It is inoperable as there is a 3 cm mass that is around the aorta at the top of her lung.
Please pray for Joyce. She is facing some very big decisions. She has 3 daughters who are in their late 20's. She has a grandson, E. who is now 7 and one of her daughters is pregnant. And please pray for God to soften her heart. She is not a Christian and doesn't want any part of it. This is a very close family and they are really hurting.
They will be seeing a local oncologist Monday about treatment options and are considering treatment at M.D. Anderson.
This is an all too familiar place where they are, except they desparately need a relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. I can't imagine having to walk this journey without God.
I just recently put the following a few weeks ago when Jan was in the midst of all these tests and we were waiting for results. I think it is most appropriate to add again.
Faith is the belief that God is real and that God is good… It is a choice to believe that the one who made it all hasn’t left it all and that he still sends light into the shadows and responds to gestures of faith…
Faith is the belief that God will do what is right
God says that the more hopeless your circumstances, the more likely your salvation. The greater your cares, the more genuine your prayers. The darker the room, the greater need for light.
God’s help is near and always available, but it is only given to those who seek it,
From: Max Lucado’s “God’s Promises for You”
In the last couple of weeks her Mom has been having some health problems which has led to testing. They received the news Friday that her Mom has lung cancer. It is inoperable as there is a 3 cm mass that is around the aorta at the top of her lung.
Please pray for Joyce. She is facing some very big decisions. She has 3 daughters who are in their late 20's. She has a grandson, E. who is now 7 and one of her daughters is pregnant. And please pray for God to soften her heart. She is not a Christian and doesn't want any part of it. This is a very close family and they are really hurting.
They will be seeing a local oncologist Monday about treatment options and are considering treatment at M.D. Anderson.
This is an all too familiar place where they are, except they desparately need a relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. I can't imagine having to walk this journey without God.
I just recently put the following a few weeks ago when Jan was in the midst of all these tests and we were waiting for results. I think it is most appropriate to add again.
Faith is the belief that God is real and that God is good… It is a choice to believe that the one who made it all hasn’t left it all and that he still sends light into the shadows and responds to gestures of faith…
Faith is the belief that God will do what is right
God says that the more hopeless your circumstances, the more likely your salvation. The greater your cares, the more genuine your prayers. The darker the room, the greater need for light.
God’s help is near and always available, but it is only given to those who seek it,
From: Max Lucado’s “God’s Promises for You”
Please pray God gives this family an abundance of Peace, Faith and Hope. Also pray for treatment options. AND, please pray for God to work in their hearts and lives to bring a softening and a yearning to only walk this journey WITH CHRIST!
Please pray for E. He is so young and has had some hard times in his young life.
Blessings,
Saturday, May 10, 2008
~Details~
Would you please help me do something nice for someone else? There is a young boy, Emory who just received a bone marrow transplant. He and his mom are staying in Houston for the next couple of months until they can return to OKC. His mom, Laura, is trying to keep him busy, so they are doing a geography project. If you are from a state other than Oklahoma or Texas, would you please take a minute to sign their guest book? Their website is www.caringbridge.org/ok/emoryhood
Matthew 6:25-32
25 "So I tell you, don't worry about the food or drink you need to live, or about the clothes you need for your body. Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothes. 26 Look at the birds in the air. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, but your heavenly Father feeds them. And you know that you are worth much more than the birds. 27 You cannot add any time to your life by worrying about it. 28 "And why do you worry about clothes? Look at how the lilies in the field grow. They don't work or make clothes for themselves. 29 But I tell you that even Solomon with his riches was not dressed as beautifully as one of these flowers.30 God clothes the grass in the field, which is alive today but tomorrow is thrown into the fire. So you can be even more sure that God will clothe you. Don't have so little faith!31 Don't worry and say, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will we wear?'32 The people who don't know God keep trying to get these things, and your Father in heaven knows you need them.
What Matters to Us, matters to God. This includes the big stuff, such as death, disease, sin, and disaster. But what about the smaller things?
God does have a universe to run. He's got wars, famines, presidents, kings, etc to fix. Who am I to tell him about small things, such as an ingrown toenail?
We are an heir of God.
We are eternal.
We have a crown.
We are a holy priest.
We were chosen before the creation.
But more than any of the above - more significant than any title or position - is the simple fact that we are God's children. The Father has loved us so much that we are called children of God. And we really are His children. (1 John 3:1).
As a result, if something is important to us, it's important to God.
So we should go ahead. Tell God what hurts. Talk to Him. He won't turn us away. He won't think it's silly. "For our high priest is able to understand our weaknesses. When he lived on earth, he was tempted in every way that we are, but he did not sin. Let us, then, feel very sure that we can come before God's throne where there is grace" (Hebrews 4:15-16).
Does God care about the little things in our lives? You better believe it.
If it matters to us, it matters to Him.
Matthew 6:25-32
25 "So I tell you, don't worry about the food or drink you need to live, or about the clothes you need for your body. Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothes. 26 Look at the birds in the air. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, but your heavenly Father feeds them. And you know that you are worth much more than the birds. 27 You cannot add any time to your life by worrying about it. 28 "And why do you worry about clothes? Look at how the lilies in the field grow. They don't work or make clothes for themselves. 29 But I tell you that even Solomon with his riches was not dressed as beautifully as one of these flowers.30 God clothes the grass in the field, which is alive today but tomorrow is thrown into the fire. So you can be even more sure that God will clothe you. Don't have so little faith!31 Don't worry and say, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will we wear?'32 The people who don't know God keep trying to get these things, and your Father in heaven knows you need them.
What Matters to Us, matters to God. This includes the big stuff, such as death, disease, sin, and disaster. But what about the smaller things?
God does have a universe to run. He's got wars, famines, presidents, kings, etc to fix. Who am I to tell him about small things, such as an ingrown toenail?
We are an heir of God.
We are eternal.
We have a crown.
We are a holy priest.
We were chosen before the creation.
But more than any of the above - more significant than any title or position - is the simple fact that we are God's children. The Father has loved us so much that we are called children of God. And we really are His children. (1 John 3:1).
As a result, if something is important to us, it's important to God.
So we should go ahead. Tell God what hurts. Talk to Him. He won't turn us away. He won't think it's silly. "For our high priest is able to understand our weaknesses. When he lived on earth, he was tempted in every way that we are, but he did not sin. Let us, then, feel very sure that we can come before God's throne where there is grace" (Hebrews 4:15-16).
Does God care about the little things in our lives? You better believe it.
If it matters to us, it matters to Him.
Monday, May 5, 2008
~May ~ Brain Cancer Awareness Month~
The month of May is BRAIN CANCER AWARENESS month. Never in a million years would I have thought someone in my immediate family would be diagnosed with brain cancer. I was thinking about it today; it is still hard to digest. Now if it would have been any other type of cancer it would not have surprised me. But BRAIN CANCER. Not only was she diagnosed with brain cancer, but she was diagnosed with the most aggressive type of brain cancer, Glioblastoma Multiforme, IV. Since November 13, 2007 we have been made aware that GBM is the most common type of primary malignant brain tumor in adults. And, the survivor rate is so very poor. This stinks! Saying that, we've chosen to look at the positives.
First, if this is your first time reading this, it is my younger sister who was diagnosed with GBM. She is doing well. She has undergone her initial radiation/chemo treatment at M.D. Anderson. And, now she is on her 3rd month of a clinical trial where her cancer is "stable."
There are people who are 15+ year survivors of this nasty disease. We have chosen to have faith in God. Jan looks to God each day for strength, as does our family. He gives us what we need for that day. Though this has been hard, especially on Jan, she has shown such grace and a true peace as she lives to tell her story. We want to praise our Father in Heaven for the blessings he bestows on us each day and there have been many.
At this time, Jan would like to return to work. Before she actually takes that step, she is going to work on getting her body back in the physical shape it needs to be in so that she will be able to handle work physically. Next, we are looking for volunteer work that she may do before she takes that step so as not to jeopardize her disability.
We are also gearing up for Relay for Life for the American Cancer Society at the end of June. We are trying to help them by raising money to honor Jan, remember our Dad who lost his battle to cancer in 2000 and also I want to remember a friend's little girl, Kraleigh who lost her battle in 2006. We're trying to figure out what would be the best ways to raise out money for the Relay.
Having brain cancer, or really any cancer takes so much from people. We want to honor and remember them. We cannot even begin to imagine what it takes out of these people, until we've been there.
Take a minute and say a prayer for Jan and all the people suffering from cancer. I've seen firsthand, as I'm sure so many of you have what it takes out of people when they are going through treatment.
May each and every one of you be blessed today!
First, if this is your first time reading this, it is my younger sister who was diagnosed with GBM. She is doing well. She has undergone her initial radiation/chemo treatment at M.D. Anderson. And, now she is on her 3rd month of a clinical trial where her cancer is "stable."
There are people who are 15+ year survivors of this nasty disease. We have chosen to have faith in God. Jan looks to God each day for strength, as does our family. He gives us what we need for that day. Though this has been hard, especially on Jan, she has shown such grace and a true peace as she lives to tell her story. We want to praise our Father in Heaven for the blessings he bestows on us each day and there have been many.
At this time, Jan would like to return to work. Before she actually takes that step, she is going to work on getting her body back in the physical shape it needs to be in so that she will be able to handle work physically. Next, we are looking for volunteer work that she may do before she takes that step so as not to jeopardize her disability.
We are also gearing up for Relay for Life for the American Cancer Society at the end of June. We are trying to help them by raising money to honor Jan, remember our Dad who lost his battle to cancer in 2000 and also I want to remember a friend's little girl, Kraleigh who lost her battle in 2006. We're trying to figure out what would be the best ways to raise out money for the Relay.
Having brain cancer, or really any cancer takes so much from people. We want to honor and remember them. We cannot even begin to imagine what it takes out of these people, until we've been there.
Take a minute and say a prayer for Jan and all the people suffering from cancer. I've seen firsthand, as I'm sure so many of you have what it takes out of people when they are going through treatment.
May each and every one of you be blessed today!
Monday, March 17, 2008
~Research~
The internet is a wonderful thing. It provides so many useful things. But I wonder in some circumstances if a normally sane person could go off on a wild goose chase. I spent the majority of today searching and scouring the internet for supplements, foods and others who had knowledge or had been on the medications Jan is taking on this clinical trial. There are tons of supplements, diets and remedies for cancer. They vary from site-to-site. Ugh! I say it again. Ugh!
I don't know if I'm any closer than I was before researching. I don't think I'm too skeptical. I think I'm level headed. I would however hate it if we didn't have the internet!
With cancer you don't have the leisure to just try anything. Though I believe some do. I would hate to try something that was damaging.
Pray that God directs us as we make this journey. Pray for wisdom in making decisions on foods and supplements. Pray for peace of mind. Pray for a positive attitude for Jan and a desire to fight. Please pray for quality life.
For more about all this, see the entry on her blog: http://grammysjourney.blogspot.com/
I don't know if I'm any closer than I was before researching. I don't think I'm too skeptical. I think I'm level headed. I would however hate it if we didn't have the internet!
With cancer you don't have the leisure to just try anything. Though I believe some do. I would hate to try something that was damaging.
Pray that God directs us as we make this journey. Pray for wisdom in making decisions on foods and supplements. Pray for peace of mind. Pray for a positive attitude for Jan and a desire to fight. Please pray for quality life.
For more about all this, see the entry on her blog: http://grammysjourney.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
~Awareness~
The month of May is BRAIN CANCER AWARENESS month. Before November 13, 2007 I, probably like many, thought brain cancer was RARE. Since then I have become AWARE that it is not so RARE.
We as a family want to bring awareness and help support, especially the Oklahoma Brain Tumor Foundation.
We have been blessed in the last four months as we began this journey. Although there are times that have been tough, the blessings have been Great.
We also want God to be praised and His will to be done.
We received an email regarding Steffanie's Law. Before March 12, we need to contact Representatives to help get this law passed. It is sad to say that when a person has a major illness, especially cancer, that you have to fight (at times) for the insurance companies to pay for hospital and doctors visits, as well as treatments whether they be clinical trials or FDA approved.
There is a reason why God allowed Jan to have brain cancer. We may never know the reason(s). We are leaning heavily on our Faith. I want it to be seen in me that my days are filled with things that count for Christ. I want my actions to show that I'm steadfast and immovable. I know there may be times when we will be tested, but I pray that I stand firm in my faith.
I put the picture of sweet Aubree. She has been such a joy. We are seeing things that God orchestrated months before the cancer was found. One being that He brought Ms. Aubree to our family at just the right time. She is such a light and distraction for all. She is one of the reasons her Grammy is fighting so hard at this time.
So, we will take it one step at a time. We will hope and pray that our God has plans for Jan to be with us for years to come. We won't worry about what tomorrow holds, but will live and enjoy our family.
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6:34
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