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Friday, December 3, 2010
Saturday, November 27, 2010
"SO BLESSED TO BE HOME"
Hi everyone,
Thank you again for all your prayers, cards, texts and encouragement. I checked into the hospital on Nov 5 and underwent 7 days of hard chemotherapy. On the 8th day, they actually took the harvested stem cells from Mike and transfused them into me. I am still in awe that The Lord made my brother a perfect match 42 years ago knowing I would need him for this. People struggle for so long trying to find a match and I was given an amazing gift. Mike harvested for 6 hours as they were looking for 5 million cells; ( he produced 20 million). The doctors were shocked at how much Mike was able to produce. The day the stem cell transplant was done is referred to as Day 0. For two weeks I recovered from chemo while my counts re-established. I will be monitored for the next 12 months closely with blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, etc. We are told that is the time frame we need to go back to make sure the stem cells are producing properly in my bone marrow.
I also want to share with you the struggles I experienced in the hospital that the Lord carried me through. As I go back and think of it now, I am just so grateful, as I do not know how I would have been able to persevere without Him. I really started to get stir crazy in the room as I was not allowed to leave or walk as my counts were too low for several days. It’s unbelievable how your mind works against you when you know you are helpless. I started to have significant anxiety attacks, claustrophobia, sweats..I hadn’t anticipated any of these, obviously. I just kept praying, "Lord, please carry me through this.." It was like an ongoing prayer to Him as I really felt powerless. It’s ironic when everything is taken from you and have significant health issues you realize you only have The Lord to look to and He is so faithful. He carried me one step at a time to let me know that I was not alone. I honestly do not and cannot comprehend going through something like this without having Jesus in my life. Some days in the hospital are still a blur and I do not remember much other than being there.
Here is a divine moment in the hospital for me. It had to be. I believe it was Saturday morning about 1am and I was going to the restroom. As I was washing my hands I looked at my arm and proceeded to watch my PICC line just fall out. There was no blood, it fell out clean. The nurses and doctors were shocked as this, given the PICC line is attached to a main artery in my arm and this is how I receive all my chemo, transfusions, etc. This was also concerning as we had to get someone in first thing in the morning so I could have one input into my arm again to administer everything. First thing, a lady shows up to my room and she is a PICC line nurse. She tells me she wasn’t going to come in; however, she felt compelled to as if the Lord told her to. She was a believer and a true blessing. We spoke about the Lord the whole time she worked away and when all was done we knew who orchestrated it all. We were just smiling and giving the Lord thanks.
Anyways, I was released yesterday and I am home. I am thrilled! Before I went into the hospital, we talked about me being away for 30 days. We wondered if it would be the Lord's will for me to be home by Thanksgiving. This would be a week early. It seemed as though we might be asking alot, but still we asked. We have a big God who does big things! He answered our prayer!! I was released a week early, the day after Thanksgiving. Thank you, Jesus!
I hope the Lord blesses your day and give you His peace that only He can give. Thank you so much for walking along side me in this trial. I cannot begin to thank you enough.
Blessed to be His soldier.
In Christ.
Love,
Rick
Thank you again for all your prayers, cards, texts and encouragement. I checked into the hospital on Nov 5 and underwent 7 days of hard chemotherapy. On the 8th day, they actually took the harvested stem cells from Mike and transfused them into me. I am still in awe that The Lord made my brother a perfect match 42 years ago knowing I would need him for this. People struggle for so long trying to find a match and I was given an amazing gift. Mike harvested for 6 hours as they were looking for 5 million cells; ( he produced 20 million). The doctors were shocked at how much Mike was able to produce. The day the stem cell transplant was done is referred to as Day 0. For two weeks I recovered from chemo while my counts re-established. I will be monitored for the next 12 months closely with blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, etc. We are told that is the time frame we need to go back to make sure the stem cells are producing properly in my bone marrow.
I also want to share with you the struggles I experienced in the hospital that the Lord carried me through. As I go back and think of it now, I am just so grateful, as I do not know how I would have been able to persevere without Him. I really started to get stir crazy in the room as I was not allowed to leave or walk as my counts were too low for several days. It’s unbelievable how your mind works against you when you know you are helpless. I started to have significant anxiety attacks, claustrophobia, sweats..I hadn’t anticipated any of these, obviously. I just kept praying, "Lord, please carry me through this.." It was like an ongoing prayer to Him as I really felt powerless. It’s ironic when everything is taken from you and have significant health issues you realize you only have The Lord to look to and He is so faithful. He carried me one step at a time to let me know that I was not alone. I honestly do not and cannot comprehend going through something like this without having Jesus in my life. Some days in the hospital are still a blur and I do not remember much other than being there.
Here is a divine moment in the hospital for me. It had to be. I believe it was Saturday morning about 1am and I was going to the restroom. As I was washing my hands I looked at my arm and proceeded to watch my PICC line just fall out. There was no blood, it fell out clean. The nurses and doctors were shocked as this, given the PICC line is attached to a main artery in my arm and this is how I receive all my chemo, transfusions, etc. This was also concerning as we had to get someone in first thing in the morning so I could have one input into my arm again to administer everything. First thing, a lady shows up to my room and she is a PICC line nurse. She tells me she wasn’t going to come in; however, she felt compelled to as if the Lord told her to. She was a believer and a true blessing. We spoke about the Lord the whole time she worked away and when all was done we knew who orchestrated it all. We were just smiling and giving the Lord thanks.
Anyways, I was released yesterday and I am home. I am thrilled! Before I went into the hospital, we talked about me being away for 30 days. We wondered if it would be the Lord's will for me to be home by Thanksgiving. This would be a week early. It seemed as though we might be asking alot, but still we asked. We have a big God who does big things! He answered our prayer!! I was released a week early, the day after Thanksgiving. Thank you, Jesus!
I hope the Lord blesses your day and give you His peace that only He can give. Thank you so much for walking along side me in this trial. I cannot begin to thank you enough.
Blessed to be His soldier.
In Christ.
Love,
Rick
Love holds all good things.
11.23.10
We know we are being held in the palm of His hand. We are reminded, daily, that He cares for us. The LORD, in His lofty, most heavenly throne room, is not too far away. He reaches His arm down, and with
His compassion and mercy, carries us when we can not walk.
Everyday gets a little better. Rick, in his struggles and challenges continues to press on! God is most gracious. His numbers continue to grow, making the doctors not only pleased, but surprised. No fevers
since Friday, and the rash has dissipated. He is eating food again--this is a great thing. This makes everyone happy! Soon he will be able to get off the liquid meat & potatoes... Rick is staying true, as a good soldier does, in spite of the stones in the road.
Saturday morn about 2 am Rick's double lumen PICC line literally fell out of his arm! What a crazy trip! No explanation. He was told the "PICC line" nurses don't work weekends. This through us into a panic.
He was given IV to continue fluids and antibiotics, but, what about transfusions, blood draws, etc?!?! This was unacceptable! Phone calls were made to try to bring someone in. We weren't going to wait till
Monday! The warriors prayed hard! Ginny, God's servant/picc line nurse, shows up to do business within an hour or so! Thank You, Lord!! She immediately went to work. Sterilized room, ultrasound machine and the Spirit of God completed the job! Rick's joy filled face makes eye contact through the thick paned glass, "She's a believer! We've been talking about the Lord! " Her eyes were of light shining through polished specs. Her smile was aglow behind surgical mask. Yes, God answered our cry for help, and he sent us His love! She opened the door with excitement and joy. We hugged as family and rejoiced in the victory. As we prayed together and praised God for his work in her life, tears of gladness filled her eyes. "Why did this happen, Ginny? What did you find?" With no practical explanation, she replied, "It happened...to meet all of you! "
What Devine appointments God has for us all...be watchful, be amazed, He is our Immanuel, "God with us"; He is near.
So, Rick, back in business, exhausted, yet content, took rest.
Each day has been a mountain climb, mentally and physically. However, the Lord's mercies really are new every morning. His white cells are increasing, building good immune for his recovery. Praying for
continued restoration, strength to be patient, to wait and be still. The Lord is good to the four of us in our yearning, homesick hearts; His peace and His love fill the empty corners of our hearts and our
home.
As Rick continues to grow stronger in his recovery, our hope is he is now through some of the deepest valleys. Thank you, thank you, for prayers, for love. Thank you for walking this journey with us.
HAPPIEST THANKGIVING!!!!
With grateful hearts abounding,
Dana, Rick, Skyler & Kyra
11.23.10
We know we are being held in the palm of His hand. We are reminded, daily, that He cares for us. The LORD, in His lofty, most heavenly throne room, is not too far away. He reaches His arm down, and with
His compassion and mercy, carries us when we can not walk.
Everyday gets a little better. Rick, in his struggles and challenges continues to press on! God is most gracious. His numbers continue to grow, making the doctors not only pleased, but surprised. No fevers
since Friday, and the rash has dissipated. He is eating food again--this is a great thing. This makes everyone happy! Soon he will be able to get off the liquid meat & potatoes... Rick is staying true, as a good soldier does, in spite of the stones in the road.
Saturday morn about 2 am Rick's double lumen PICC line literally fell out of his arm! What a crazy trip! No explanation. He was told the "PICC line" nurses don't work weekends. This through us into a panic.
He was given IV to continue fluids and antibiotics, but, what about transfusions, blood draws, etc?!?! This was unacceptable! Phone calls were made to try to bring someone in. We weren't going to wait till
Monday! The warriors prayed hard! Ginny, God's servant/picc line nurse, shows up to do business within an hour or so! Thank You, Lord!! She immediately went to work. Sterilized room, ultrasound machine and the Spirit of God completed the job! Rick's joy filled face makes eye contact through the thick paned glass, "She's a believer! We've been talking about the Lord! " Her eyes were of light shining through polished specs. Her smile was aglow behind surgical mask. Yes, God answered our cry for help, and he sent us His love! She opened the door with excitement and joy. We hugged as family and rejoiced in the victory. As we prayed together and praised God for his work in her life, tears of gladness filled her eyes. "Why did this happen, Ginny? What did you find?" With no practical explanation, she replied, "It happened...to meet all of you! "
What Devine appointments God has for us all...be watchful, be amazed, He is our Immanuel, "God with us"; He is near.
So, Rick, back in business, exhausted, yet content, took rest.
Each day has been a mountain climb, mentally and physically. However, the Lord's mercies really are new every morning. His white cells are increasing, building good immune for his recovery. Praying for
continued restoration, strength to be patient, to wait and be still. The Lord is good to the four of us in our yearning, homesick hearts; His peace and His love fill the empty corners of our hearts and our
home.
As Rick continues to grow stronger in his recovery, our hope is he is now through some of the deepest valleys. Thank you, thank you, for prayers, for love. Thank you for walking this journey with us.
HAPPIEST THANKGIVING!!!!
With grateful hearts abounding,
Dana, Rick, Skyler & Kyra
Friday, November 19, 2010
"HARD TIMES"
Wednesday night Rick has begun a fever; still, as of this morning it is managed w Tylenol. He isn't able to sleep well due to continuous diarrhea for 3 days. He has developed a rash covering his upper body. These things reveal *Engraftment syndrome. Very common with transplants, although very hard on Rick. He is trying to find rest and stay comfortable. However, this seems to be physically impossible most of the time. Dr. Nade started him on steroids and antibiotics to control Engraftment syndrome. Drs/nurses are very positive and reassure that this stage will pass. Neuprogen shots continue daily so his white cells are beginning to come back up, sssslowlyyy. He was given whole blood and platelet transfusions yesterday. These will help also.
We continue to pray and trust that the Lord is with us, and especially Rick as he goes through this hard part. I was given a special word from the Lord:
Deepest gratitude and humility for your unceasing prayers and outpouring of love! Glory to God!
Life & peace in Christ,
Dana
*Engraftment syndrome is a febrile syndrome that occurs in the early neutrophil [white blood cells] recovery phase following stem cell transplantation. It is characterized by noninfectious fever andvarious clinical findings, such as skin rash, diarrhea, pulmonary infiltrates, weight gain and neurological manifestations.
We continue to pray and trust that the Lord is with us, and especially Rick as he goes through this hard part. I was given a special word from the Lord:
"But now, this is what the LORD says- He who has created you, He who has formed you: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine.When comfort is temporary and fear tries desperately to enter, it is only by God's promises we find solace. By the power of His unfathomable love and strength we endure.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through
the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you
will not be burned. Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because
I love you" Is. 43:1-2,4.
Deepest gratitude and humility for your unceasing prayers and outpouring of love! Glory to God!
Life & peace in Christ,
Dana
*Engraftment syndrome is a febrile syndrome that occurs in the early neutrophil [white blood cells] recovery phase following stem cell transplantation. It is characterized by noninfectious fever andvarious clinical findings, such as skin rash, diarrhea, pulmonary infiltrates, weight gain and neurological manifestations.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
"Day 12"
With anticipation, I approach Rick's hospital room this morning. I glance through the thick glass, before entering the anteroom to wash up and put on a pair gloves and a mask. I watch Rick. He is standing at the window. His back is to me, looking out. As I notice him there, I am overcome by many unexpected emotions. I pause a few precious moments before entering.
The last few days have been pretty tough on him. His blood counts have continued to drop, as expected. Today his WBC is .500; his Red Blood Cells and his platelets are hanging on. He is being medicated as needed for his nausea and he actually has an appetite. However, COH "low bacteria" meals are not what he has in mind. No outside food either. So, for now, his main meals come from a yellow Gatorade-looking bag fed through IV.
Dr.Nade (and other doctors) continue to monitor Rick's numbers and progress. They are pleased so far as nothing out of the ordinary has needed to be addressed. Such an answer to prayer!
Rick, however, is struggling from lots of anxiety. Not the typical anxiety. This is produced as one of the side effects of chemo, and possibly other drugs he is being given. In some patients, especially those who are "outdoors people" really battle hard with this kind of mental/physical anxiety. When it hits, the nausea quickly follows. It's really hard to juggle, in Rick's case, with proper med combinations. It's been a little trial and error. He saw the Clinical Psychiatrist today for assessment. This was very helpful in getting him in the right direction towards relief. Thank God!
As of yesterday, he is now confined to his room. Until his WBC comes back up, hallway strolls and 6th floor lobby field trips are off limits. Praise God, this shouldn't be long...he will begin Neuprogen injections tomorrow through the next 7-10 days. This will boost his WBC and immune system.
We can't thank you enough for your prayers, your phone messages, texts and cards, your blood and platelet donations and your love. All of these, your heart, your words, your time, carry Rick and our family through each day.....12 days and counting. As we continually reflect on the victories God has given us thus far, may you see that our victories are yours too. We are humbly honored and blessed to have so many standing with us. Let us rejoice!
We would be so grateful if you would please continue to pray for Rick~
Pray for discernment for Dr. Nade, the entire medical team and proper medications to be administered according to Rick's personal needs.
Please pray that each new day brings new mercies and great miracles in Rick's complete healing and recovery-- ALL TO THE PRAISES OF JESUS!
Please pray for Christ to protect Rick- mind, body and spirit.
It was a very tender time visiting with Rick today. He look fantastic! It will be an even sweeter time when he is back home.
We continue to consider it all joy, when we face trials of many kinds, and we are confident that the testing of our faith is producing in us perseverance. As we continue to grow more dependent on God the Father, in our Lord Jesus Christ and more in love with each other, we see our endurance bearing its perfect result.
Grace & peace to you~Dana
The last few days have been pretty tough on him. His blood counts have continued to drop, as expected. Today his WBC is .500; his Red Blood Cells and his platelets are hanging on. He is being medicated as needed for his nausea and he actually has an appetite. However, COH "low bacteria" meals are not what he has in mind. No outside food either. So, for now, his main meals come from a yellow Gatorade-looking bag fed through IV.
Dr.Nade (and other doctors) continue to monitor Rick's numbers and progress. They are pleased so far as nothing out of the ordinary has needed to be addressed. Such an answer to prayer!
Rick, however, is struggling from lots of anxiety. Not the typical anxiety. This is produced as one of the side effects of chemo, and possibly other drugs he is being given. In some patients, especially those who are "outdoors people" really battle hard with this kind of mental/physical anxiety. When it hits, the nausea quickly follows. It's really hard to juggle, in Rick's case, with proper med combinations. It's been a little trial and error. He saw the Clinical Psychiatrist today for assessment. This was very helpful in getting him in the right direction towards relief. Thank God!
As of yesterday, he is now confined to his room. Until his WBC comes back up, hallway strolls and 6th floor lobby field trips are off limits. Praise God, this shouldn't be long...he will begin Neuprogen injections tomorrow through the next 7-10 days. This will boost his WBC and immune system.
We can't thank you enough for your prayers, your phone messages, texts and cards, your blood and platelet donations and your love. All of these, your heart, your words, your time, carry Rick and our family through each day.....12 days and counting. As we continually reflect on the victories God has given us thus far, may you see that our victories are yours too. We are humbly honored and blessed to have so many standing with us. Let us rejoice!
We would be so grateful if you would please continue to pray for Rick~
Pray for discernment for Dr. Nade, the entire medical team and proper medications to be administered according to Rick's personal needs.
Please pray that each new day brings new mercies and great miracles in Rick's complete healing and recovery-- ALL TO THE PRAISES OF JESUS!
Please pray for Christ to protect Rick- mind, body and spirit.
It was a very tender time visiting with Rick today. He look fantastic! It will be an even sweeter time when he is back home.
We continue to consider it all joy, when we face trials of many kinds, and we are confident that the testing of our faith is producing in us perseverance. As we continue to grow more dependent on God the Father, in our Lord Jesus Christ and more in love with each other, we see our endurance bearing its perfect result.
Grace & peace to you~Dana
Saturday, November 13, 2010
"Behold, I AM Making All Things New."
Dear Family & Friends,
It has been an amazing last 8 days. Rick's 7 days of chemo went pretty well! He finished his last dose on Thursday. Thank you for your prayers! (We're told it's the next few days to come that will hit him hard.) Friday morning came-Transplant Day!! Rick and I were so blessed to watch the sun rise together through his window from the 6th floor. It made me think of how God makes everything new. What a perfect day to be able to witness the miracle of new cells, and a new life on this new day. So we rejoice!
The few days prior to Transplant, Rick's nausea increased. Thank God for the medication provided around the clock. He is still fighting this, but doing what he can to endure. Thursday, Mike was scheduled for a 6 hour transfusion, with hope to have enough cells for Rick in one sitting. (A lonngg sitting.) Sometimes donors are called back the following day to give more if, by chance, there aren't enough harvested. God had this covered too! Mike had harvested 21 million stem cells in his 6 hour sitting. (The average is anywhere from 3-10million.) He is doing great and so happy to be such a special part of all this for his brother.
Friday morning before the cells were ready for Rick to receive, he was picked up from his room for a trip to the gym. His physical therapists, Dice and Cecelia, are just great! Rick had a good time working out before the Transplant. As they joked and "counted" it was so encouraging for me to see Rick up and active, and truly feeling alive. It also struck me as very special to notice an autographed collage from Lance Armstrong hanging in the rehab gym. An inspiration that we all at some point may need to start over, but, where there is faith and hope there is courage and perseverance.
The Transplant of Mike's cells was finally ready. It was so special, just before Nurse Jo was about to hang the bag, she grabbed Rick and my hands and prayed, thanking God for this amazing blessing. It was beautiful. Within 1 1/2 hours, the IV had given Rick the stem cells he needed.
Today, Rick is doing pretty good. Nausea is his biggest battle, however. The doctor is also watching closely for reactions, side effects, and symptoms of Graft vs. Host Diseases, due to the Transplant.
Thank you so much for your continued prayers and love. They mean everything to us. Please pray for Rick, that God would continue to bless him with amazing grace and mercy, peace and strength, protect him and show favor upon him with a miraculous recovery.
~All glory and praise to Jesus!
What an amazing week this has been!
With deep gratitude & love,
Dana
It has been an amazing last 8 days. Rick's 7 days of chemo went pretty well! He finished his last dose on Thursday. Thank you for your prayers! (We're told it's the next few days to come that will hit him hard.) Friday morning came-Transplant Day!! Rick and I were so blessed to watch the sun rise together through his window from the 6th floor. It made me think of how God makes everything new. What a perfect day to be able to witness the miracle of new cells, and a new life on this new day. So we rejoice!
The few days prior to Transplant, Rick's nausea increased. Thank God for the medication provided around the clock. He is still fighting this, but doing what he can to endure. Thursday, Mike was scheduled for a 6 hour transfusion, with hope to have enough cells for Rick in one sitting. (A lonngg sitting.) Sometimes donors are called back the following day to give more if, by chance, there aren't enough harvested. God had this covered too! Mike had harvested 21 million stem cells in his 6 hour sitting. (The average is anywhere from 3-10million.) He is doing great and so happy to be such a special part of all this for his brother.
Friday morning before the cells were ready for Rick to receive, he was picked up from his room for a trip to the gym. His physical therapists, Dice and Cecelia, are just great! Rick had a good time working out before the Transplant. As they joked and "counted" it was so encouraging for me to see Rick up and active, and truly feeling alive. It also struck me as very special to notice an autographed collage from Lance Armstrong hanging in the rehab gym. An inspiration that we all at some point may need to start over, but, where there is faith and hope there is courage and perseverance.
The Transplant of Mike's cells was finally ready. It was so special, just before Nurse Jo was about to hang the bag, she grabbed Rick and my hands and prayed, thanking God for this amazing blessing. It was beautiful. Within 1 1/2 hours, the IV had given Rick the stem cells he needed.
Today, Rick is doing pretty good. Nausea is his biggest battle, however. The doctor is also watching closely for reactions, side effects, and symptoms of Graft vs. Host Diseases, due to the Transplant.
Thank you so much for your continued prayers and love. They mean everything to us. Please pray for Rick, that God would continue to bless him with amazing grace and mercy, peace and strength, protect him and show favor upon him with a miraculous recovery.
~All glory and praise to Jesus!
What an amazing week this has been!
With deep gratitude & love,
Dana
Sunday, November 7, 2010
"Preparing for Big Things"
Rick checked in Friday, Nov. 5th, as planned, at City of Hope. It was a beautiful day. Skyler took off work and Kyra, school. The 4 of us spent a very special day together as Rick got adjusted to his new temporary home. We were very happy to find out that his transplant date has been moved to this FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12th! Mike started his Neuprogen shots today which will continue for 4 days. (These cause his white cells to mass produce.) Mike is scheduled to have his stem cells harvested Thurs. Nov. 11th.
Rick began chemo Friday night. He did fairly well through Saturday night. God was so good in protecting him with preventative drugs and lots of grace! Today, Sunday, he is very tired and suffering some nausea- obviously to be expected. However, we continue to pray hard that the LORD would continue to stand firm and fight for Rick against all side effects! We are also praying that God prepare Rick's body to receive Mike's stem cells on Friday, that He would graciously bless Rick and show Himself mightily through Rick by manifesting the stem cells quickly and efficiently into bone marrow and rapidly recover Rick's blood counts to healthy levels.
We believe God for all things, all peace, all grace, all hope and love; we know He can do anything--today, we are asking He will these things! BIG THINGS!
We trust the GOD of all creation, who created the heavens and the earth, who spoke the whole world into existence in just a breath. Nothing is too hard for Him.
I pray that you would be encouraged to open up your heart to God, to pray for your need. Please know, Rick and I pray for you constantly. May God bless your heart and your soul.
As we look forward to what tomorrow brings, we rest in today knowing that our lives, whether difficult or carefree, remain in the palm of His hand- for we are in Christ and Christ is in us.
Thank you all for your continued prayers, your love and sweet support. Every bit keeps our family going! Thanks to everyone who has generously donated whole blood and plan to donate platelets! Your gifts are amazing to us! We love you!
May you know the greatest love of all....JESUS CHRIST.
life & peace,
Dana
Rick says, "hi" from COH
Rick began chemo Friday night. He did fairly well through Saturday night. God was so good in protecting him with preventative drugs and lots of grace! Today, Sunday, he is very tired and suffering some nausea- obviously to be expected. However, we continue to pray hard that the LORD would continue to stand firm and fight for Rick against all side effects! We are also praying that God prepare Rick's body to receive Mike's stem cells on Friday, that He would graciously bless Rick and show Himself mightily through Rick by manifesting the stem cells quickly and efficiently into bone marrow and rapidly recover Rick's blood counts to healthy levels.
We believe God for all things, all peace, all grace, all hope and love; we know He can do anything--today, we are asking He will these things! BIG THINGS!
We trust the GOD of all creation, who created the heavens and the earth, who spoke the whole world into existence in just a breath. Nothing is too hard for Him.
I pray that you would be encouraged to open up your heart to God, to pray for your need. Please know, Rick and I pray for you constantly. May God bless your heart and your soul.
As we look forward to what tomorrow brings, we rest in today knowing that our lives, whether difficult or carefree, remain in the palm of His hand- for we are in Christ and Christ is in us.
Thank you all for your continued prayers, your love and sweet support. Every bit keeps our family going! Thanks to everyone who has generously donated whole blood and plan to donate platelets! Your gifts are amazing to us! We love you!
May you know the greatest love of all....JESUS CHRIST.
life & peace,
Dana
Rick says, "hi" from COH
Monday, November 1, 2010
We're Finally Here...
Hello Everyone!
We are so excited to say that the time is finally upon us....the home stretch...the wrap up...the finish line. Lately, Rick and I talk alot about the last 5-6 months; a half year- WOW! We both agree, it honesty hasn't felt that long. So, now we face 30 days of combined treatment, transplant, and recovery. This is truly unbelieveble! We often reflect on all that God has done in bringing us down this hard rode. From the umbrella of peace that covers our days to allowing Rick's body to comply and recover through every treatment quickly and successfully. So many answered prayer!! We continue to trust in His divine plan and are confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in Rick will complete it until the day of Christ's return. I am also deeply grateful to share in this journey with Rick, as many of you have mentioned..to watch the miracles and beauty revealed in affliction only deepens my love for Rick and my faith and hope in our Savior, Jesus Christ. (May our next "30 days"go as quickly as the last 6 months....)
Rick checks in this FRIDAY, NOV. 5th. For 7 days he will be treated with chemotherapy. We are told this treatment round is harder than he's received. We are praying diligently for GOD to show himself strong and stand in the gap for Rick. We are asking for NO SIDE EFFECTS! We know He is able, so we're praying He will do it!
After chemo Rick will recover for 3 days. He will receive Mike's stem cells on NOV. 16th. We are praying for a successful transplant! No complications or disease/illness/reactions. We also pray for Mike, as the harvesting of his stem cells will be done on Nov.15th & possibly the 16th, if needed.
Following transplant, Rick will be in recovery for about 3 weeks. His release date will be Dec. 7. We ask the Lord that He bless Rick with a swift and easy recovery. We pray that God commands Rick's body and his 'new' stem cells to produce all necessary for a new immune system, thriving health and a long and abundant life.
We pray for contined peace. God tells us this in Isaiah 26: "You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You. LORD, You establish peace for us; all that we have accomplished You have done for us." (v.6, 12)
We pray for you. May God bless you, keep you and fill you with His love and goodness. May you know His Son JesusChrist, who died for you, and now lives for you, in a deeper way today. "Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday." Psalm 37:3-6)
Lastly, thanks to all who have so generously donated blood on Rick's behalf. For those who wish to donate platelets: We were told today that Rick will need platelets on Nov. 20. If you plan to donate, please keep in mind platelets can only be held for Rick for 5 days.
Thank you all so much for your generous love, prayers and giving. We are truly a blessed family. We are eternally grateful for you.
Life & peace in Christ,
Dana
We are so excited to say that the time is finally upon us....the home stretch...the wrap up...the finish line. Lately, Rick and I talk alot about the last 5-6 months; a half year- WOW! We both agree, it honesty hasn't felt that long. So, now we face 30 days of combined treatment, transplant, and recovery. This is truly unbelieveble! We often reflect on all that God has done in bringing us down this hard rode. From the umbrella of peace that covers our days to allowing Rick's body to comply and recover through every treatment quickly and successfully. So many answered prayer!! We continue to trust in His divine plan and are confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in Rick will complete it until the day of Christ's return. I am also deeply grateful to share in this journey with Rick, as many of you have mentioned..to watch the miracles and beauty revealed in affliction only deepens my love for Rick and my faith and hope in our Savior, Jesus Christ. (May our next "30 days"go as quickly as the last 6 months....)
Rick checks in this FRIDAY, NOV. 5th. For 7 days he will be treated with chemotherapy. We are told this treatment round is harder than he's received. We are praying diligently for GOD to show himself strong and stand in the gap for Rick. We are asking for NO SIDE EFFECTS! We know He is able, so we're praying He will do it!
After chemo Rick will recover for 3 days. He will receive Mike's stem cells on NOV. 16th. We are praying for a successful transplant! No complications or disease/illness/reactions. We also pray for Mike, as the harvesting of his stem cells will be done on Nov.15th & possibly the 16th, if needed.
Following transplant, Rick will be in recovery for about 3 weeks. His release date will be Dec. 7. We ask the Lord that He bless Rick with a swift and easy recovery. We pray that God commands Rick's body and his 'new' stem cells to produce all necessary for a new immune system, thriving health and a long and abundant life.
We pray for contined peace. God tells us this in Isaiah 26: "You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You. LORD, You establish peace for us; all that we have accomplished You have done for us." (v.6, 12)
We pray for you. May God bless you, keep you and fill you with His love and goodness. May you know His Son JesusChrist, who died for you, and now lives for you, in a deeper way today. "Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday." Psalm 37:3-6)
Lastly, thanks to all who have so generously donated blood on Rick's behalf. For those who wish to donate platelets: We were told today that Rick will need platelets on Nov. 20. If you plan to donate, please keep in mind platelets can only be held for Rick for 5 days.
Thank you all so much for your generous love, prayers and giving. We are truly a blessed family. We are eternally grateful for you.
Life & peace in Christ,
Dana
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Gratitude is the foundation of all peace & joy.
10.19.10
We wait with anticipation as things progress. All Rick's tests are finally complete. Waiting for results of a few to be received. Once in hand at COH, they will be submitted for insurance authorization for Mike to begin his tests. Because things has taken up to this point, there is a good chance Rick will have to re-do the Bone Marrow Biopsy. We are now looking at November 1st for Rick's hospital admit date; which means he may be at COH for Thanksgiving. This thought is a bummer, but we continue to be so grateful for God's perfect timing, treatment and healing. Rick and I confidently leave it all in His sovereign hands.
Seek My Presence. I will reward you with courage and joy to conquer all troubles, says the LORD.
"... so that I may loudly sing a hymn of thanksgiving and tell about all your miracles." Ps. 26:7
We love getting your emails and greetings. It's as if God's eye and hand are upon us moment by moment. May the presence of His love touch you and bless you as you rejoice in all the good things He gives.
Peace & joy to you, in Christ~
Dana
"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thess. 5:18
10.19.10
We wait with anticipation as things progress. All Rick's tests are finally complete. Waiting for results of a few to be received. Once in hand at COH, they will be submitted for insurance authorization for Mike to begin his tests. Because things has taken up to this point, there is a good chance Rick will have to re-do the Bone Marrow Biopsy. We are now looking at November 1st for Rick's hospital admit date; which means he may be at COH for Thanksgiving. This thought is a bummer, but we continue to be so grateful for God's perfect timing, treatment and healing. Rick and I confidently leave it all in His sovereign hands.
Seek My Presence. I will reward you with courage and joy to conquer all troubles, says the LORD.
- We pray that Rick's body stay in remission.
- We pray for continued strength, peace and total healing.
- We pray that our hearts be prepared for the month that Rick will be away from home.
- And, we pray for a sweet gift- that God would allow my husband to be home and well, for Thanksgiving. What a precious miracle & gift this would be.
"... so that I may loudly sing a hymn of thanksgiving and tell about all your miracles." Ps. 26:7
We love getting your emails and greetings. It's as if God's eye and hand are upon us moment by moment. May the presence of His love touch you and bless you as you rejoice in all the good things He gives.
Peace & joy to you, in Christ~
Dana
"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thess. 5:18
10.14.10
Hi everyone,
I am so grateful and thankful for each one of you. I know that the prayers you have said on behalf of my family and myself have us at thestage we are at. We have met with Dr Nademanee at City of Hope and she is ready to go forward with the stem cell transplant. Over the last few weeks, we have been trying to get authorizations for the teststhat they require as well as showing up and doing them. I will have finished my last of 7 tomorrow and then Mike (my brother) will go and do his tests. I feel very blessed to be lifted up by so many wonderful people as I get ready for the last part of this journey. I will be atCity of Hope for 30 days (5 days of Chemo, stem cell transplant, 2weeks recuperation). They tell me basically it will be like me getting a new immune system that will consist of Mike's stem cells.
I think 42 years ago when Mike and I were born the Lord knew exactly that I would need him for this purpose. I am in awe of this factconstantly. My family is amazing. They are supportive, strong and seeking the Lord's guidance in all aspects as we take each day as it comes. There have been so many people who have come out of the"woodwork" to offer help to me from the past it is amazingly humbling. I will know more details when I report hopefully soon.
In the interim, thank you and God bless you.
A brother in Christ,
Rick L.
Hi everyone,
I am so grateful and thankful for each one of you. I know that the prayers you have said on behalf of my family and myself have us at thestage we are at. We have met with Dr Nademanee at City of Hope and she is ready to go forward with the stem cell transplant. Over the last few weeks, we have been trying to get authorizations for the teststhat they require as well as showing up and doing them. I will have finished my last of 7 tomorrow and then Mike (my brother) will go and do his tests. I feel very blessed to be lifted up by so many wonderful people as I get ready for the last part of this journey. I will be atCity of Hope for 30 days (5 days of Chemo, stem cell transplant, 2weeks recuperation). They tell me basically it will be like me getting a new immune system that will consist of Mike's stem cells.
I think 42 years ago when Mike and I were born the Lord knew exactly that I would need him for this purpose. I am in awe of this factconstantly. My family is amazing. They are supportive, strong and seeking the Lord's guidance in all aspects as we take each day as it comes. There have been so many people who have come out of the"woodwork" to offer help to me from the past it is amazingly humbling. I will know more details when I report hopefully soon.
In the interim, thank you and God bless you.
A brother in Christ,
Rick L.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
"THE CALL"
Rick is in remission! Bone marrow biopsy results are in! No more Mantle Cell! It's gone!! Hallelujah! Our GOD is so good!!! No words can describe the overwhelming joy of my heart to know, not only this most amazing news of my husband's healing, but what is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. How gracious and compassionate are His ways. O how He loves us. Thank You Jesus!
Our visit to City of Hope was hopeful, yet after blood draws and long discussions with Dr. Nademanee, Rick's Hematologist, who will oversee transplant, etc., and the case coordinator, Kia, we were left still waiting. As of this evening, the bone marrow biopsy lab report had still not been available. However, Dr. Nade held nothing back and optimistically proceeded with preparing us for, in fine detail, "next-steps" concerning ALL that is required for Rick and his twin brother, Mike, (stem cell donor) to prepare for the days and weeks to come. This was very exciting, and a little maddening, for me anyway. No biopsy result, no validation, and transplant plans just didn't make sense to me. ("Why are you gettin' my hopes up doc?...") For the first time since Rick's GP called back in February regarding his "high" white blood count, I hadn't felt this anxious. Rick was peaceful, suggesting that God wants us to relax and enjoy some peace. ("WHAT?! RELAX? How can I? I'm holding my breath??")
We arrived home after a long day. My heart would not rest. My anticipation turned into anxiety and my silent prayers quickly turned into sobbing pleas to the Lord. In my lap I read, "Hear my prayer, O LORD; Let my cry for help come to You. Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress, turn Your ear to me; When I call answer me quickly." Ps. 102:1-2.
Rick took my hands. He praised God for His goodness, for His grace; he begged Him for comfort and healing and prayed for peace. Overwhelmed, my heart and my eyes wept.
I read on- "Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name. Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits- who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, The LORD is compassionate and gracious." Ps. 103:1-4,8a. Yes. God is with us.
A few moments later Rick returned. Dr. Mahmood had left a message on his cell regarding the Bone Marrow Biopsy...he was very delighted by the results; No Mantle Cell in the Bone Marrow, all tests show negative to cancer....
As Rick played the message for me, I found myself with my face in my hands, now balling!!! "THANK YOU GOD! THANK YOU GOD! THANK YOU GOD!" I threw my arms around Rick and kissed him and then....they lived happily ever after!
Kinda....
Kia, our case worker will follow up as she has already begun paperwork, so the ball is rolling! "Tentatively", pre-transplant treatment for Rick is to start October 18.
Many new things to begin to pray for as we go through the process.
First, we thank God for His love and faithfulness, for His Precious Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and for you! Thank you for standing by us, praying with us and believing God for miracles! We thank God for Dr. Mahmood, his staff, St. Joseph's Oncology, Dr. Nade & City of Hope. We thank God for our loving parents, our sisters and brothers, precious nieces & nephews and family alike; our caring neighbors & friends; our beautiful, enduring daughters and our beloved church home, CCEA. We thank God for every prayer petitioned on Rick's (our family's)behalf; we thank God for how this has strengthened us and continues to show us How much He loves us; we are overwhelmingly humbled, forever changed--by His Grace. We love you all.
*We ask that as you pray for Rick, please pray for Mike as they both prepare.
*We ask God for His strength. Peace. To keep our eyes on Him.
*We pray for smooth transitions with all insurance transactions for Rick & Mike.
*We pray that all appointments are set according to God's perfect timing.
*We pray that Rick & Mike stay healthy and free from all colds, flu, infections- that God would prepare their bodies for all examinations, tests & transplant procedures.
BLESS GOD!
Dana
Our visit to City of Hope was hopeful, yet after blood draws and long discussions with Dr. Nademanee, Rick's Hematologist, who will oversee transplant, etc., and the case coordinator, Kia, we were left still waiting. As of this evening, the bone marrow biopsy lab report had still not been available. However, Dr. Nade held nothing back and optimistically proceeded with preparing us for, in fine detail, "next-steps" concerning ALL that is required for Rick and his twin brother, Mike, (stem cell donor) to prepare for the days and weeks to come. This was very exciting, and a little maddening, for me anyway. No biopsy result, no validation, and transplant plans just didn't make sense to me. ("Why are you gettin' my hopes up doc?...") For the first time since Rick's GP called back in February regarding his "high" white blood count, I hadn't felt this anxious. Rick was peaceful, suggesting that God wants us to relax and enjoy some peace. ("WHAT?! RELAX? How can I? I'm holding my breath??")
We arrived home after a long day. My heart would not rest. My anticipation turned into anxiety and my silent prayers quickly turned into sobbing pleas to the Lord. In my lap I read, "Hear my prayer, O LORD; Let my cry for help come to You. Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress, turn Your ear to me; When I call answer me quickly." Ps. 102:1-2.
Rick took my hands. He praised God for His goodness, for His grace; he begged Him for comfort and healing and prayed for peace. Overwhelmed, my heart and my eyes wept.
I read on- "Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name. Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits- who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, The LORD is compassionate and gracious." Ps. 103:1-4,8a. Yes. God is with us.
A few moments later Rick returned. Dr. Mahmood had left a message on his cell regarding the Bone Marrow Biopsy...he was very delighted by the results; No Mantle Cell in the Bone Marrow, all tests show negative to cancer....
As Rick played the message for me, I found myself with my face in my hands, now balling!!! "THANK YOU GOD! THANK YOU GOD! THANK YOU GOD!" I threw my arms around Rick and kissed him and then....they lived happily ever after!
Kinda....
Kia, our case worker will follow up as she has already begun paperwork, so the ball is rolling! "Tentatively", pre-transplant treatment for Rick is to start October 18.
Many new things to begin to pray for as we go through the process.
First, we thank God for His love and faithfulness, for His Precious Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and for you! Thank you for standing by us, praying with us and believing God for miracles! We thank God for Dr. Mahmood, his staff, St. Joseph's Oncology, Dr. Nade & City of Hope. We thank God for our loving parents, our sisters and brothers, precious nieces & nephews and family alike; our caring neighbors & friends; our beautiful, enduring daughters and our beloved church home, CCEA. We thank God for every prayer petitioned on Rick's (our family's)behalf; we thank God for how this has strengthened us and continues to show us How much He loves us; we are overwhelmingly humbled, forever changed--by His Grace. We love you all.
*We ask that as you pray for Rick, please pray for Mike as they both prepare.
*We ask God for His strength. Peace. To keep our eyes on Him.
*We pray for smooth transitions with all insurance transactions for Rick & Mike.
*We pray that all appointments are set according to God's perfect timing.
*We pray that Rick & Mike stay healthy and free from all colds, flu, infections- that God would prepare their bodies for all examinations, tests & transplant procedures.
BLESS GOD!
Dana
Thursday, September 23, 2010
"GOD'S WILL BE DONE"
Hi Everyone,
Yet again, thank you for all your prayers, visits, calls, emails, and those of you who donated to and participated in The Leukemia Lymphoma Society's LIGHT THE NIGHT WALK for those battling blood cancers. With your efforts & contributions, TeamRICK raised over $7,400! CONGRATULATIONS! Thanks be to God. I am so touched by all the support, that sometimes it seems so unreal that I am the one who is being supported and lifted up.
After my trying week last week, I had my bone marrow biopsy on Tuesday. The Lord was so faithful and gave me as little pain as probable. We now have scheduled an appointment with Dr. Nademanee at City of Hope who will be doing the Stem Cell Transplant. Dr. Mahmood tells us that she will be making all the decisions from here. This appointment will be to review the bone marrow slides with Dr. Nademanee and get her assessment of how the chemo treatment has gone in fighting the Mantle Cell. In our discussion with Dr. Mahmood and Dr. Nademanee, we can expect one of two things to happen:
1. She will review the biopsy slides, and (even if) cancer free, she may decide that I need additional round of chemo (both A and B) and then do the Stem Cell Transplant.
OR
2. She will review the biopsy slides, which will reveal that I am cancer free and decide to move forward with the Stem Cell Transplant (My prayer is obviously for this option).
My family and I are praying for complete healing and that we can just proceed with the transplant; however, if that’s not God’s will and I need 2 more sessions of chemo then that’s what I will have to do. The Lord has given me fortitude and obedience with either. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t want any more chemo but it’s not always about what I think I need. I know part of this battle is about being a light to others during difficult times and I pray for His strength and peace. I can’t believe I have already undergone 4 hard core chemo sessions and I feel blessed to feel the way I do. At times, as I tell Dana, I look in the mirror and I see my bald head and partial eyebrows and it becomes real to me again; on the other hand, when I am in the hospital, I see so much pain and suffering from others undergoing treatment and fear in their family's eyes that I realize how blessed I am.
When I was getting sober, my counselor told me often, "....you have two options, 'life sucks' and 'life really sucks'...". Back then, I really could get my arms around that philosophy. Now, however, since I have been walking with the Lord, He has shown me what a gift life really is and bitterness is a choice. We have trials and they bring us closer to Him and give us greater compassion and love for others. This is what I am learning through this process and the fire is melting away the judgmental and angry pieces of my heart. So, I am thankful to be where I am at today, living in today.
Please keep us in your prayers and know that we covet each and every one of them. I may be the soldier in this but I am nothing without my weapons and Armor. Know that all of your prayers provide that for me. I pray that you will be touched by the Lord’s indescribable peace and joy.
Thank you again.
Rick
A special "thank you" to CarolAnn Monahan for so thoughtfully heading up TeamRICK & to Dave & Corrina Foxx @ SPECIAL T's for generously donating team shirts to the LIGHT THE NIGHT WALK. God bless you!
Yet again, thank you for all your prayers, visits, calls, emails, and those of you who donated to and participated in The Leukemia Lymphoma Society's LIGHT THE NIGHT WALK for those battling blood cancers. With your efforts & contributions, TeamRICK raised over $7,400! CONGRATULATIONS! Thanks be to God. I am so touched by all the support, that sometimes it seems so unreal that I am the one who is being supported and lifted up.
After my trying week last week, I had my bone marrow biopsy on Tuesday. The Lord was so faithful and gave me as little pain as probable. We now have scheduled an appointment with Dr. Nademanee at City of Hope who will be doing the Stem Cell Transplant. Dr. Mahmood tells us that she will be making all the decisions from here. This appointment will be to review the bone marrow slides with Dr. Nademanee and get her assessment of how the chemo treatment has gone in fighting the Mantle Cell. In our discussion with Dr. Mahmood and Dr. Nademanee, we can expect one of two things to happen:
1. She will review the biopsy slides, and (even if) cancer free, she may decide that I need additional round of chemo (both A and B) and then do the Stem Cell Transplant.
OR
2. She will review the biopsy slides, which will reveal that I am cancer free and decide to move forward with the Stem Cell Transplant (My prayer is obviously for this option).
My family and I are praying for complete healing and that we can just proceed with the transplant; however, if that’s not God’s will and I need 2 more sessions of chemo then that’s what I will have to do. The Lord has given me fortitude and obedience with either. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t want any more chemo but it’s not always about what I think I need. I know part of this battle is about being a light to others during difficult times and I pray for His strength and peace. I can’t believe I have already undergone 4 hard core chemo sessions and I feel blessed to feel the way I do. At times, as I tell Dana, I look in the mirror and I see my bald head and partial eyebrows and it becomes real to me again; on the other hand, when I am in the hospital, I see so much pain and suffering from others undergoing treatment and fear in their family's eyes that I realize how blessed I am.
When I was getting sober, my counselor told me often, "....you have two options, 'life sucks' and 'life really sucks'...". Back then, I really could get my arms around that philosophy. Now, however, since I have been walking with the Lord, He has shown me what a gift life really is and bitterness is a choice. We have trials and they bring us closer to Him and give us greater compassion and love for others. This is what I am learning through this process and the fire is melting away the judgmental and angry pieces of my heart. So, I am thankful to be where I am at today, living in today.
Please keep us in your prayers and know that we covet each and every one of them. I may be the soldier in this but I am nothing without my weapons and Armor. Know that all of your prayers provide that for me. I pray that you will be touched by the Lord’s indescribable peace and joy.
Thank you again.
Rick
A special "thank you" to CarolAnn Monahan for so thoughtfully heading up TeamRICK & to Dave & Corrina Foxx @ SPECIAL T's for generously donating team shirts to the LIGHT THE NIGHT WALK. God bless you!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Sunday, September 19, 2010
"His mercies are new every morning..."
Hello dear family & friends,
Rick was released from the hospital today at 12:15pm! Praise God! The Acyclovir was the evil culprit. Once his dosage was discontinued his headaches came to a halt and his vitals have all returned to perfect. WOW! What a crazy last few days...but, today is a new day and Rick is happily redeeming hours of restful sleep in his own bed.
Thank you for your continued prayers and love! We don't know how we'd get through this without God's generous love and grace. We love you.
Dana
Rick was released from the hospital today at 12:15pm! Praise God! The Acyclovir was the evil culprit. Once his dosage was discontinued his headaches came to a halt and his vitals have all returned to perfect. WOW! What a crazy last few days...but, today is a new day and Rick is happily redeeming hours of restful sleep in his own bed.
Thank you for your continued prayers and love! We don't know how we'd get through this without God's generous love and grace. We love you.
Dana
"Waiting on the LORD"
9.18.10
It's Saturday night. Rick (and I) are still here at the hospital. It'sbeen another long, busy day. Blood test cultures are still NEGATIVE, CT Scan NEGATIVE. Rick was accessed by neurologist due to headaches and dermatologist for his skin rash. At the end of the day, adjustments have been made to his meds which should relieve headaches and he is being closely monitored for any reoccurring symptoms that may pop up. The dermatologist confirmed Rick does not have shingles, although the rash is now in it's healing stage. His white cell count is still too high as of tonight- this they are watching to go done too.
*We continue to pray for total relief of headaches for Rick, that if there is ANY infection at all, that the doctors & nurses would begiven divine wisdom and discernment in discovering and treating Rick.
*We also ask God for His constant peace, trust in knowing He is in control, grace and mercy. (It is so comforting to rest in this placeof unknowing, yet, knowing it's all going to be OK. Rick is trulydoing good. Thank you for praying peace! Keep 'em coming!!)
*May God's will be for Rick to be healthy and prepared for Tuesday's bone marrow biopsy.
A deep heart-felt thanks to Jeanne & our daughters and to those of you who so graciously gathered to pray at our home today for Rick and our family while we were here at St. Joes. We are humbly grateful. Thanks to all of you for your constant support, love & prayers.
We certainly feel it!
Life & peace,
Dana
It's Saturday night. Rick (and I) are still here at the hospital. It'sbeen another long, busy day. Blood test cultures are still NEGATIVE, CT Scan NEGATIVE. Rick was accessed by neurologist due to headaches and dermatologist for his skin rash. At the end of the day, adjustments have been made to his meds which should relieve headaches and he is being closely monitored for any reoccurring symptoms that may pop up. The dermatologist confirmed Rick does not have shingles, although the rash is now in it's healing stage. His white cell count is still too high as of tonight- this they are watching to go done too.
*We continue to pray for total relief of headaches for Rick, that if there is ANY infection at all, that the doctors & nurses would begiven divine wisdom and discernment in discovering and treating Rick.
*We also ask God for His constant peace, trust in knowing He is in control, grace and mercy. (It is so comforting to rest in this placeof unknowing, yet, knowing it's all going to be OK. Rick is trulydoing good. Thank you for praying peace! Keep 'em coming!!)
*May God's will be for Rick to be healthy and prepared for Tuesday's bone marrow biopsy.
A deep heart-felt thanks to Jeanne & our daughters and to those of you who so graciously gathered to pray at our home today for Rick and our family while we were here at St. Joes. We are humbly grateful. Thanks to all of you for your constant support, love & prayers.
We certainly feel it!
Life & peace,
Dana
"PRAYING AGAINST INFECTION"
9.17.10
Hello everyone~
Yesterday Rick & I went to ER for a fever he developed of 101.4 in the late morning. Praise God!, at the time we were processing paperwork, his fever broke. To make a veeerrrrryy long day and story short, theER doctor ordered lots of blood tests and cultures to check for infection. Rick was admitted last night to the oncology floor, receiving antibiotic drip as a precaution. Now awaiting culture results and a visit from Dr. Mahmood to hopefully determine "why fever?" Rick feels fine; has felt fine since his fever broke yesterday about 1pm. I love my husband so much and his patient surrender to all that has and continues to go on. This comes to mind: "But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, "GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE." Jm. 4:6. Yesterday was draining, however we continued to keep each other laughing and joking. Yes, he was bummed, who wants to "sleep-over" at St. Joes? But, the Lord quickly answered our call and grace provided grace.
We would be so grateful if you would pray for NO INFECTION. Pray for continued peace and grace & all healing! Thank you so much for following us on this very unpredictable journey. Life is so worth living no matter where He puts us. Nevertheless, I can laugh at the days to come, because our GOD is Sovereign, Good, and The Lover of our Souls! AMEN!
Peace to all,
Dana
Hello everyone~
Yesterday Rick & I went to ER for a fever he developed of 101.4 in the late morning. Praise God!, at the time we were processing paperwork, his fever broke. To make a veeerrrrryy long day and story short, theER doctor ordered lots of blood tests and cultures to check for infection. Rick was admitted last night to the oncology floor, receiving antibiotic drip as a precaution. Now awaiting culture results and a visit from Dr. Mahmood to hopefully determine "why fever?" Rick feels fine; has felt fine since his fever broke yesterday about 1pm. I love my husband so much and his patient surrender to all that has and continues to go on. This comes to mind: "But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, "GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE." Jm. 4:6. Yesterday was draining, however we continued to keep each other laughing and joking. Yes, he was bummed, who wants to "sleep-over" at St. Joes? But, the Lord quickly answered our call and grace provided grace.
We would be so grateful if you would pray for NO INFECTION. Pray for continued peace and grace & all healing! Thank you so much for following us on this very unpredictable journey. Life is so worth living no matter where He puts us. Nevertheless, I can laugh at the days to come, because our GOD is Sovereign, Good, and The Lover of our Souls! AMEN!
Peace to all,
Dana
"NO SHINGLES!"
9.14.10
Thank God! No shingles!
Today Rick's skin rash appears to be clearing up! His visit to the oncologist yesterday verified that he does not have shingles. The doctor doubled the dosage of Acyclovir, an antiviral drug, which seems to be working; however, side effects of dizziness and nausea are hitting him pretty hard. He is to see a dermatologist too. Skin rash, chemo and a compromised immune system tend to go hand in hand.
Rick's white cell count read good, (a little high: Neulasta shot, pain in hips) but, his platelet count and hemoglobin level are low. He is ordered to go back for another blood draw tomorrow (Wednesday) to check CBC levels again. Watching as to whether a blood and/or platelet transfusion is necessary. Bone marrow biopsy next Tuesday.
We countinue to thank the Lord for what He allows. As Rick and I talk about these things we quickly realize how gracious and merciful God is in this season of our life. It is hard at times, no doubt, but God continues in His lovingkindness, to provide sufficiency for Rick's needs, for each of our needs, both great and small, to endure and to persevere. His peace is a wide, cozy blanket that keeps our family content and the hope of Christ is our surrender.
Thank you for continuing in faith along side us, praying for Rick's healing, strength, and our peace. We know God carries us through your petitions.
Please write to us as we would be honored to pray for you too, for itis in God that all good gifts are given and all needs are met.
"He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds. Look at thebirds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather intobarns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth muchmore than they?" Ps. 147:3, Matt. 6:26.
Peace & life, in Christ~
Dana
Thank God! No shingles!
Today Rick's skin rash appears to be clearing up! His visit to the oncologist yesterday verified that he does not have shingles. The doctor doubled the dosage of Acyclovir, an antiviral drug, which seems to be working; however, side effects of dizziness and nausea are hitting him pretty hard. He is to see a dermatologist too. Skin rash, chemo and a compromised immune system tend to go hand in hand.
Rick's white cell count read good, (a little high: Neulasta shot, pain in hips) but, his platelet count and hemoglobin level are low. He is ordered to go back for another blood draw tomorrow (Wednesday) to check CBC levels again. Watching as to whether a blood and/or platelet transfusion is necessary. Bone marrow biopsy next Tuesday.
We countinue to thank the Lord for what He allows. As Rick and I talk about these things we quickly realize how gracious and merciful God is in this season of our life. It is hard at times, no doubt, but God continues in His lovingkindness, to provide sufficiency for Rick's needs, for each of our needs, both great and small, to endure and to persevere. His peace is a wide, cozy blanket that keeps our family content and the hope of Christ is our surrender.
Thank you for continuing in faith along side us, praying for Rick's healing, strength, and our peace. We know God carries us through your petitions.
Please write to us as we would be honored to pray for you too, for itis in God that all good gifts are given and all needs are met.
"He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds. Look at thebirds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather intobarns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth muchmore than they?" Ps. 147:3, Matt. 6:26.
Peace & life, in Christ~
Dana
"PLATELETS DOUBLED"
9.15.10
Platelets doubled and white blood cells off the chart!
Rick's blood draw today was an answer to prayer! His red counts are up and platelets have recovered, however, his WBC has once again done the crazy "Six Million Dollar Man" thing... his number was so high, unable to register, which explains the return of the relentless pain in his hips and shoulders. But, GOD is good! No transfusion. Also, Rick's CBC shows OUTSTANDING results with healthy cells vs. cancer cells!! His rash continues to improve day by day. Hallelujah!
Thank you so much for your prayers and your emails. We are deeply encouraged and grateful!
Taking one day at a time. God bless.
With Love,
Dana & Rick
Platelets doubled and white blood cells off the chart!
Rick's blood draw today was an answer to prayer! His red counts are up and platelets have recovered, however, his WBC has once again done the crazy "Six Million Dollar Man" thing... his number was so high, unable to register, which explains the return of the relentless pain in his hips and shoulders. But, GOD is good! No transfusion. Also, Rick's CBC shows OUTSTANDING results with healthy cells vs. cancer cells!! His rash continues to improve day by day. Hallelujah!
Thank you so much for your prayers and your emails. We are deeply encouraged and grateful!
Taking one day at a time. God bless.
With Love,
Dana & Rick
"Energy, Appetite & Rash"
9.13.10
Hello All,
A brief update: Rick is doing great! Energy up, appetite good. However, he is headed to the doctor today for a rash that hasprogressively gotten worse. It appeared about a month ago, very minor-Dr. M put Rick on medication. Since his last treatment of Methotrexate the rash has bloomed, covering his thighs and torso. It may be shingles, although he has no pain. Chemo, along with a low immune system tends to trigger skin rashes. We are praying for godly wisdom and proper treatment for this annoying rash, that Dr. Tran who is seeing Rick today, will manage Rick's care concisely and effectively. We are also praying that Rick's CBC is healthy today.
Thanks to all of you for you prayers, love and support!
God's peace and hope is with us.
Dana
Hello All,
A brief update: Rick is doing great! Energy up, appetite good. However, he is headed to the doctor today for a rash that hasprogressively gotten worse. It appeared about a month ago, very minor-Dr. M put Rick on medication. Since his last treatment of Methotrexate the rash has bloomed, covering his thighs and torso. It may be shingles, although he has no pain. Chemo, along with a low immune system tends to trigger skin rashes. We are praying for godly wisdom and proper treatment for this annoying rash, that Dr. Tran who is seeing Rick today, will manage Rick's care concisely and effectively. We are also praying that Rick's CBC is healthy today.
Thanks to all of you for you prayers, love and support!
God's peace and hope is with us.
Dana
Sunday, September 5, 2010
"HE INCREASES THE POWER OF THE WEAK"
Rick's 4th Round now complete. As I write this update on a cool, relaxing Sunday evening with Rick lying on the couch next to me, he has been home now for more than a day! I couldn't believe it when he called me at 10AM Saturday and said with total excitement, "You can come pick me up, they're letting me go....all my counts are good and my Methotrexate levels are perfect!!!" WHAT? It was like my birthday! Or maybe Rick's?!..God gave us an unexpected gift! One less day at the hospital!!! (Do you have any idea what this means?) Needless to say, the girls and I were so excited! Kyra and I met Rick and got him checked out. On our way home we stopped for Togo's where Rick had a sandwich and chips. (Again, do you have any idea what this means??- for him to even want to eat at this point is just amazing!) We got home where he followed up with a special heart-felt greeting from Lola and then a long nap; Important. Dinner, a rootbeer float; Vital.
He slept pretty decent last night. Today has been a bit more of a struggle to [want] to eat, but he's trying. Taking lots of naps. Rick sees Dr. Mahmood on Tuesday.
As I write "Thank You so Much" for your prayers and loving support, in my heart it does no justice to their impact and power that has moved mightly to strengthen Rick (and our family)this past week. God has shown Himself ever so mercifully in Rick's treatment and the grace He has provided is awesome. The LORD, Jesus Christ, in His faithfulness, compassion and love surely met Rick more than half way, fighting on his behalf. Thank You Savior! We love You LORD, because You tell us to cry out to You when we are weary & weak and You increase our power and strength. Amen. (Isaiah 40:29).
We look forward to September 21st, when Rick will have a Bone Marrow Biospy to determine whether he will need further chemo or not. We are praying hard that God has removed it all-
Please pray with us in asking God for His perfect will over Rick in this.
Thank you again for your lovingkindness, the supportive ways that show you care. We can't express enough how it causes each of us to strive with courage, hope and peace.
We love you.
Life & Peace in Christ~
Dana for Rick, Skyler & Kyra
He slept pretty decent last night. Today has been a bit more of a struggle to [want] to eat, but he's trying. Taking lots of naps. Rick sees Dr. Mahmood on Tuesday.
As I write "Thank You so Much" for your prayers and loving support, in my heart it does no justice to their impact and power that has moved mightly to strengthen Rick (and our family)this past week. God has shown Himself ever so mercifully in Rick's treatment and the grace He has provided is awesome. The LORD, Jesus Christ, in His faithfulness, compassion and love surely met Rick more than half way, fighting on his behalf. Thank You Savior! We love You LORD, because You tell us to cry out to You when we are weary & weak and You increase our power and strength. Amen. (Isaiah 40:29).
We look forward to September 21st, when Rick will have a Bone Marrow Biospy to determine whether he will need further chemo or not. We are praying hard that God has removed it all-
Please pray with us in asking God for His perfect will over Rick in this.
Thank you again for your lovingkindness, the supportive ways that show you care. We can't express enough how it causes each of us to strive with courage, hope and peace.
We love you.
Life & Peace in Christ~
Dana for Rick, Skyler & Kyra
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
"HEAL ME"
Hello All~
Tomorrow Rick will be checking in for, God willing, his last chemotherapy. Part B, known as Methotrexate, Cytarabine & a Methotrexate recovery drug. Not that these drug names mean much to you, yet we are very grateful for your prayers against the ill effects of these hard core attackers that war against the "health" of Rick's body. Nevertheless, we are so thankful to receive these treatments that fight disease and save lives; however, to recognize the true Physician is our gift. We ask God to bless Rick with grace, peace & joy to endure all things in the coming weeks; we pray for the LORD'S strength and courage to press through all hard times as Christ goes before Rick & continues to fight this battle for him. As the 4 of us prayed together earlier this evening for Rick and his hospital stay, Skyler acknowledged the fact that we all should be well routined in this chemo thing, however, she knew (as well as all of us at that moment) that we needed and asked for God's loving peace and encouragement just as much as the first time- deeply. It's hard when Dad is away.
If all goes as it has in the past, Rick should be released Sunday, Sept. 5th. (This continues to be a miracle in itself!) Although, the first 7-10 days after have usually been the worst; horrible nausea, fatigue, insomnia, body aches & very low blood counts. Praying against these too!
Rick is scheduled for a Bone Marrow Biopsy Tues. Sept. 21 to determine whether there is any cancer remaining in his bone tissue. This will determine if he will need more treatment or not. Please pray for Rick. Pray that God would have mercy & he would be healed! Whatever is revealed, we will rejoice.
Thank you for your love and continued prayers.
All Glory to God,
Dana
It is the sole prerogative of God to remove spiritual disease. Natural disease may be instrumentally healed by men, but even then the honor is to be given to God who grants wisdom to doctors and bestows power to enable the human frame to cast off disease. As for spiritual sicknesses, these remain with the Great Physician alone; He claims it as His prerogative: "I kill and I make alive; I wound and I heal"; and one of the Lord's choice titles is Jehovah-Rophi, "the Lord who heals you." "I will heal your wounds" is a promise that could not come from the lips of man but only from the mouth of the eternal God. On this account the psalmist cried unto the Lord, "Heal me, O LORD, for my bones are troubled," and again, "Heal me, for I have sinned against you!" For this also the godly praise the name of the Lord, saying, "[He] heals all your diseases." He who made man can restore man; He who was at first the creator of our nature can re-create it. What a transcendent comfort it is that in the person of Jesus "the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily."
My soul, whatever your disease may be, this Great Physician can heal you. If He is God, there can be no limit to His power. Come then with the blind eye of darkened understanding; come with the limping foot of wasted energy; come with the disabled hand of weak faith, the fever of an angry temper, or the fit of shivering despondency; come just as you are, for He who is God can certainly restore you. No one can restrain the healing power that proceeds from Jesus our Lord. Legions of devils have attempted to overcome the power of the beloved Physician, and never once has He been hindered. All His patients have been cured in the past and shall be in the future, and you may be counted among them, my friend, if you will but rest yourself in Him today. [Alistair Begg]Heal us, O LORD, and we shall be healed. Jeremiah 17:14
You have seen our ways, but You will heal us. Is. 57:18
Monday, August 23, 2010
"A Purposeful Journey"
Dear Family & Friends~
Thank you for your steadfast love, care, and constant prayer on behalf of Rick and our family.
It has been a long month, and now with one week before Round 4 (or technically, Course 2, Part B) we see August 31st just around the corner. The girls are back in school, however, we were all totally blessed last weekend to get away to San Diego to just relax and enjoy some awesome weather and dining.
Rick is feeling good lately-other than tired, but this is normal. He had a blood draw today and his numbers were good, too! Got his BNP blood test results back last week and this was a huge answer to prayer! His level was 30. (Over 100 is not good.) We are very encouraged. We're still waiting for the EKG report, nevertheless, his pulse rate has returned to normal. All Praises to God!!! We pray EKG shows no damage. Rick has an appointment with Dr. M on Thursday to discuss progress and prep for next treatment starting a week from tomorrow.
Please pray for God's strength, courage, peace, protection and grace over Rick to endure next week and after. Each chemo treatment definitely has its "evil" accumulative effects.
Also, our prayer and heart's desire is that this will be Rick's last treatment and will then get the OK to receive his Stem Cell Transplant. Soon after he completes next week's round, he will have a bone marrow biopsy to reveal whether there is any residual cancer. This will determine, along with blood tests if or how much more treatment he will need before SCT. We pray God's mercy that ALL cancer is gone. We pray God's grace & peace to endure whatever He chooses it to be. "Let Your mercy, O LORD, be on us, according as we hope in You." (Ps. 33:22).
God tells me in His Word to "pray without ceasing." (1 Thess. 5:17) ..to never stop. This verse applies to our home. It means more now, than ever. It keeps us grounded when nothing is certain. It gives us hope, for our hope is in Jesus Christ alone. As a friend recently shared with me, "Faith isn't denial but, facing facts w/o being discouraged. CANCER: u CANT DENY the diagnosis but, u CAN DEFY the verdict. Fight!"
I know as I write this not all our readers are believing Christians. However, I share this with you too, in hopes to encourage your heart in some small way to think about what God wants for you and your life. But, first He just wants to hear from you. O how He loves us.
Charles H. Spurgeon once wrote:
As we continue to share with you the victories & struggles of Rick's battle with Stage 4 Mantle Cell Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive blood and bone marrow cancer, I'd like to also encourage you to visit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's LIGHT THE NIGHT WALK website: http://www.lightthenight.org/ocie/
11 of us are teaming up to walk in honor of Rick on September 19th.
Please consider supporting TEAMRick and the hundreds of thousands of people who suffer from blood cancers by raising money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through the LIGHT THE NIGHT WALK. You can make a difference! We are so close to our team's fundraising goal of $2,500. In fact, out of our 11 Walkers, 7 have become Champions For Cures by raising already $100 or more! Congrats and thank you so much! If each walker on our team raises a $100 or more, a bigger impact and provision for more funds for cancer research and patient services can be made.
To donate, please click here: http://pages.lightthenight.org/ocie/OrangeCo10/TeamRick
In honor of Rick and all who battle against blood cancers, as well as those whom we will never forget, this is for you.
No degree of contribution is too little and no measure of prayer is too much.
Thank you so much for staying with us on this humble and strange journey. It may not always be easy, but it is purposeful. God bless you.
Love,
Dana
Thank you for your steadfast love, care, and constant prayer on behalf of Rick and our family.
It has been a long month, and now with one week before Round 4 (or technically, Course 2, Part B) we see August 31st just around the corner. The girls are back in school, however, we were all totally blessed last weekend to get away to San Diego to just relax and enjoy some awesome weather and dining.
Rick is feeling good lately-other than tired, but this is normal. He had a blood draw today and his numbers were good, too! Got his BNP blood test results back last week and this was a huge answer to prayer! His level was 30. (Over 100 is not good.) We are very encouraged. We're still waiting for the EKG report, nevertheless, his pulse rate has returned to normal. All Praises to God!!! We pray EKG shows no damage. Rick has an appointment with Dr. M on Thursday to discuss progress and prep for next treatment starting a week from tomorrow.
Please pray for God's strength, courage, peace, protection and grace over Rick to endure next week and after. Each chemo treatment definitely has its "evil" accumulative effects.
Also, our prayer and heart's desire is that this will be Rick's last treatment and will then get the OK to receive his Stem Cell Transplant. Soon after he completes next week's round, he will have a bone marrow biopsy to reveal whether there is any residual cancer. This will determine, along with blood tests if or how much more treatment he will need before SCT. We pray God's mercy that ALL cancer is gone. We pray God's grace & peace to endure whatever He chooses it to be. "Let Your mercy, O LORD, be on us, according as we hope in You." (Ps. 33:22).
God tells me in His Word to "pray without ceasing." (1 Thess. 5:17) ..to never stop. This verse applies to our home. It means more now, than ever. It keeps us grounded when nothing is certain. It gives us hope, for our hope is in Jesus Christ alone. As a friend recently shared with me, "Faith isn't denial but, facing facts w/o being discouraged. CANCER: u CANT DENY the diagnosis but, u CAN DEFY the verdict. Fight!"
I know as I write this not all our readers are believing Christians. However, I share this with you too, in hopes to encourage your heart in some small way to think about what God wants for you and your life. But, first He just wants to hear from you. O how He loves us.
Charles H. Spurgeon once wrote:
"Never give up praying, not even though Satan should suggest to you that it is
in vain for you to cry unto God. Pray in his teeth; "pray without ceasing." If
for awhile the heavens are as brass and your prayer only echoes in thunder above
your head, pray on; if month after month your prayer appears to have miscarried,
and no reply has been vouchsafed to you, yet still continue to draw nigh unto
the Lord. Do not abandon the mercy-seat for any reason whatever. If it be a good
thing that you have been asking for, and you are sure it is according to the
divine will, if the vision tarry wait for it, pray, weep, entreat, wrestle,
agonise till you get that which you are praying for. If your heart be cold in
prayer, do not restrain prayer until your heart warms, but pray your soul unto
heat by the help of the everblessed Spirit who helpeth our infirmities. If the
iron be hot then hammer it, and if it be cold hammer it till you heat it. Never
cease prayer for any sort of reason or argument. If the philosopher should tell
you that every event is fixed, and, therefore, prayer cannot possibly change
anything, and, consequently, must be folly; still, if you cannot answer him and
are somewhat puzzled, go on with your supplications notwithstanding all. No
difficult problem concerning digestion would prevent your eating, for the result
justifies the practice, and so no quibble should make us cease prayer, for the
assured success of it commends it to us. You know what your God has told you,
and if you cannot reply to every difficulty which man can suggest, resolve to be
obedient to the divine will, and still "Pray without ceasing." Never, never,
never renounce the habit of prayer, or your confidence in its
power."
As we continue to share with you the victories & struggles of Rick's battle with Stage 4 Mantle Cell Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive blood and bone marrow cancer, I'd like to also encourage you to visit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's LIGHT THE NIGHT WALK website: http://www.lightthenight.org/ocie/
11 of us are teaming up to walk in honor of Rick on September 19th.
Please consider supporting TEAMRick and the hundreds of thousands of people who suffer from blood cancers by raising money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through the LIGHT THE NIGHT WALK. You can make a difference! We are so close to our team's fundraising goal of $2,500. In fact, out of our 11 Walkers, 7 have become Champions For Cures by raising already $100 or more! Congrats and thank you so much! If each walker on our team raises a $100 or more, a bigger impact and provision for more funds for cancer research and patient services can be made.
To donate, please click here: http://pages.lightthenight.org/ocie/OrangeCo10/TeamRick
In honor of Rick and all who battle against blood cancers, as well as those whom we will never forget, this is for you.
No degree of contribution is too little and no measure of prayer is too much.
Thank you so much for staying with us on this humble and strange journey. It may not always be easy, but it is purposeful. God bless you.
Love,
Dana
A true lesson in humility...
August 14, 2010
Hi everyone,
I was released from the hospital (round 3) last Sunday. For the first 3 days, I felt like Captain Chemo as it wasn’t even affecting me. Pride is until the end of time wrong and sets just before very large storms and tribulations. It seems from the 4rth-6th day, I was hit harder and harder with extreme nausea unlike anything that I had felt from the prior 2 rounds. The doctors and nurses gave me all the medication to try and manage it to get some food down. The only thing that worked was the love and consistency of my family telling me that I “had to” eat so my pigheaded mentality wouldn’t win. I know the chemo is working, but, I guess I really didn’t anticipate the impact of it all on my 42 year old body. I know it seems ridiculous and it is, believe me. I am even embarrassed to affirm it now. They are poisoning and killing parts of me, yet, “hey, Rick Lange is a tough guy and those normal effects are just for everyone else”. WOW. My mind is truly a hazardous place. However, The Lord is always faithful and allows me to see my weakness and my need for him. He is my Lord and savior as he continues to save me from myself and my thinking.
After being released, I was able to come home and there is such freedom is that. It is truly liberating no matter how your body is feeling. My stomach still remained very unsettled and food was a abomination to my thought process; but, each day I got a little better (baby steps). On Wednesday, I was able to go and have lunch at CPK with Dana and Kyra and even go to Old Navy and Vans. What a blessing. You may ask “why”. The Lord opened my eyes to see the greatest blessings in the smallest details and experiences. Just being out with them amidst a busy world and enjoying the sunlight and their happiness filled me with Joy. It still warms my heart as I think about it now.
A day before, Dana noticed that my pulse rate was running pretty high. I usually need to take my blood pressure twice a day and have one of those machines from CVS or Costco. I guess the normal is 60-95 and mine was running between 115-123. She called the doctor, I went and gave more blood, he ordered an EKG and another type of blood test (BNP) and indications were it could be some issues from the chemo and the natural affects on the heart. Understandable.
Here is Friday (yesterday). Let me preface this with I had expectations of what my day was going to look like so I had things to do..Yeah right..Humility 101. I received authorization for the EKG and I was to just walk in and they could do it so I went to St Josephs at 10:30. Then, I had an 11:30 with my oncologist, Dr. Mahmood, back home by 2. Here’s what happened: I finished with the EKG at 11 (right on time) and went to DR Mahmood’s office and grabbed a sandwich at the café below to wait for Dana. Checked into his office at 11:35 and was put into a patient room to see him around 12. When we finally saw him it was 1:30 and I was told from the normal blood test they run every time that my hemoglobin level were low and I would need two blood transfusions. Now, I am bummed and really kind of irritated. Poor Dana just had to sit there and be with Captain Grumpy and Impatient now. Dr Mahmood finally comes in and says everything is working as planned, my blood levels are low and I need to go receive two blood transfusions today. Oh, btw Doc, how long will that take? I thought maybe 2-3 hours. He tells me 6-8 hours. I just about lost it. Dana and I drove to St Joseph’s and checked into outpatient at 2:15. Now, I have morphed in “King Resentment”. Bottom line, I was finally released at 11:15 last night. I tell you all this in detail because I truly know the Lord was with me as I still do not understand how I did not have a meltdown and lose it. I felt his presence, and yet, I felt the enemy telling me “he was going to break me”. It still seems surreal as last night I honestly have blind spots in my memory. I should have been on my knees in prayer a lot more and I wasn’t; yet, he never forsook me despite my willingness to do so at the smallest opportunity.
All your prayers blanketed me last night from self destruction. I know this now. Thank you for your persistent prayer on my behalf. I do not know how anyone lives their life without a true relationship with the Lord. I am humbled, I am grateful and I am Home. My prayer today is that The Lord will touch and anoint each of you with his love, his peace and his compassion today to enjoy what he has given you and I. As he continues to clear and cut away the darkness of my life and replace it with his light, I just want to praise him for carrying me through the times that are so painful to see the true victory he has claimed and our behalf.
May The Lord rest and abide in each one of you today,
Godsoldr
Hi everyone,
I was released from the hospital (round 3) last Sunday. For the first 3 days, I felt like Captain Chemo as it wasn’t even affecting me. Pride is until the end of time wrong and sets just before very large storms and tribulations. It seems from the 4rth-6th day, I was hit harder and harder with extreme nausea unlike anything that I had felt from the prior 2 rounds. The doctors and nurses gave me all the medication to try and manage it to get some food down. The only thing that worked was the love and consistency of my family telling me that I “had to” eat so my pigheaded mentality wouldn’t win. I know the chemo is working, but, I guess I really didn’t anticipate the impact of it all on my 42 year old body. I know it seems ridiculous and it is, believe me. I am even embarrassed to affirm it now. They are poisoning and killing parts of me, yet, “hey, Rick Lange is a tough guy and those normal effects are just for everyone else”. WOW. My mind is truly a hazardous place. However, The Lord is always faithful and allows me to see my weakness and my need for him. He is my Lord and savior as he continues to save me from myself and my thinking.
After being released, I was able to come home and there is such freedom is that. It is truly liberating no matter how your body is feeling. My stomach still remained very unsettled and food was a abomination to my thought process; but, each day I got a little better (baby steps). On Wednesday, I was able to go and have lunch at CPK with Dana and Kyra and even go to Old Navy and Vans. What a blessing. You may ask “why”. The Lord opened my eyes to see the greatest blessings in the smallest details and experiences. Just being out with them amidst a busy world and enjoying the sunlight and their happiness filled me with Joy. It still warms my heart as I think about it now.
A day before, Dana noticed that my pulse rate was running pretty high. I usually need to take my blood pressure twice a day and have one of those machines from CVS or Costco. I guess the normal is 60-95 and mine was running between 115-123. She called the doctor, I went and gave more blood, he ordered an EKG and another type of blood test (BNP) and indications were it could be some issues from the chemo and the natural affects on the heart. Understandable.
Here is Friday (yesterday). Let me preface this with I had expectations of what my day was going to look like so I had things to do..Yeah right..Humility 101. I received authorization for the EKG and I was to just walk in and they could do it so I went to St Josephs at 10:30. Then, I had an 11:30 with my oncologist, Dr. Mahmood, back home by 2. Here’s what happened: I finished with the EKG at 11 (right on time) and went to DR Mahmood’s office and grabbed a sandwich at the café below to wait for Dana. Checked into his office at 11:35 and was put into a patient room to see him around 12. When we finally saw him it was 1:30 and I was told from the normal blood test they run every time that my hemoglobin level were low and I would need two blood transfusions. Now, I am bummed and really kind of irritated. Poor Dana just had to sit there and be with Captain Grumpy and Impatient now. Dr Mahmood finally comes in and says everything is working as planned, my blood levels are low and I need to go receive two blood transfusions today. Oh, btw Doc, how long will that take? I thought maybe 2-3 hours. He tells me 6-8 hours. I just about lost it. Dana and I drove to St Joseph’s and checked into outpatient at 2:15. Now, I have morphed in “King Resentment”. Bottom line, I was finally released at 11:15 last night. I tell you all this in detail because I truly know the Lord was with me as I still do not understand how I did not have a meltdown and lose it. I felt his presence, and yet, I felt the enemy telling me “he was going to break me”. It still seems surreal as last night I honestly have blind spots in my memory. I should have been on my knees in prayer a lot more and I wasn’t; yet, he never forsook me despite my willingness to do so at the smallest opportunity.
All your prayers blanketed me last night from self destruction. I know this now. Thank you for your persistent prayer on my behalf. I do not know how anyone lives their life without a true relationship with the Lord. I am humbled, I am grateful and I am Home. My prayer today is that The Lord will touch and anoint each of you with his love, his peace and his compassion today to enjoy what he has given you and I. As he continues to clear and cut away the darkness of my life and replace it with his light, I just want to praise him for carrying me through the times that are so painful to see the true victory he has claimed and our behalf.
May The Lord rest and abide in each one of you today,
Godsoldr
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Monday, August 9, 2010
"Peace still remains"
Dear family & friends,
Rick is home now. His third round completed (part A of second cycle). He started strong, entering the hospital last Tuesday morning. The nurses were amazed and questioning as to what he was doing back...he's looking darn good! Wednesday and Thursday continued to be a piece of cake. He felt no effects of the chemo, ate very well (special deliveries of Mexican food and pizza, burgers, cupcakes & homemade soup) and slept just as well; other than the occasional middle-of-the-night "I need to check your vitals" wake-up drills. Then the dreaded reminiscence of treatment settled in. As Friday unfolded, so did the heavy cloud of restlessness and nausea. Medicine kicking in real good....this hovered consistently through the weekend. Rick was more than ready and grateful to be released Sunday. We had his bags packed pretty much at the crack of dawn.
As hard as it is during these low points when not even water sounds palatable at times, and when I see Rick's eyes and I know he is going through something I just can't even begin to understand; I never lose hope- peace still remains. It is a beautiful thing to me, something else I don't quite understand and can't fully explain- although we fight this battle, outwardly and inwardly, and Rick far more than I, it is a beautiful rest in knowing that it is Christ that goes before us. He truly has victory over it all. And so do we.(Deut. 4:20)
So we begin a new week. Recuperation at home. Home sweet home.
Rick has been catching up on lost sleep and giving into the fatigue most of the day. His energy and appetite are low. The first days at home after treatment are always the hardest. However, we are thankful; it's not as bad as it's said to be.
Please pray for Rick's strength and appetite to be restored. Pray for his blood counts to continue to show favorable signs of remission and complete healing. Tomorrow he is scheduled for Neulasta shot to boost WBC/immune system & protection against infections. Please also pray Rick will be tolerant of the bone & joint pain, all by God's grace & mighty power, all by God's perfect will, timing and to His Awesome Glory. "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, to all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness;" Phil. 4:13, Col. 1:11.
We are blessed beyond words by our loving daughters who continue to rise to the occasion to make everything so joyful and easier on me and sweet for Rick; as well as Mia and Mimi who are never short on TLC.
Once again, we cannot thank you enough, also, for your prayers and love. We know God hears and answers. He is good.
We look forward to His refreshing.
Life & peace in Christ,
Dana
Rick is home now. His third round completed (part A of second cycle). He started strong, entering the hospital last Tuesday morning. The nurses were amazed and questioning as to what he was doing back...he's looking darn good! Wednesday and Thursday continued to be a piece of cake. He felt no effects of the chemo, ate very well (special deliveries of Mexican food and pizza, burgers, cupcakes & homemade soup) and slept just as well; other than the occasional middle-of-the-night "I need to check your vitals" wake-up drills. Then the dreaded reminiscence of treatment settled in. As Friday unfolded, so did the heavy cloud of restlessness and nausea. Medicine kicking in real good....this hovered consistently through the weekend. Rick was more than ready and grateful to be released Sunday. We had his bags packed pretty much at the crack of dawn.
As hard as it is during these low points when not even water sounds palatable at times, and when I see Rick's eyes and I know he is going through something I just can't even begin to understand; I never lose hope- peace still remains. It is a beautiful thing to me, something else I don't quite understand and can't fully explain- although we fight this battle, outwardly and inwardly, and Rick far more than I, it is a beautiful rest in knowing that it is Christ that goes before us. He truly has victory over it all. And so do we.(Deut. 4:20)
So we begin a new week. Recuperation at home. Home sweet home.
Rick has been catching up on lost sleep and giving into the fatigue most of the day. His energy and appetite are low. The first days at home after treatment are always the hardest. However, we are thankful; it's not as bad as it's said to be.
Please pray for Rick's strength and appetite to be restored. Pray for his blood counts to continue to show favorable signs of remission and complete healing. Tomorrow he is scheduled for Neulasta shot to boost WBC/immune system & protection against infections. Please also pray Rick will be tolerant of the bone & joint pain, all by God's grace & mighty power, all by God's perfect will, timing and to His Awesome Glory. "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, to all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness;" Phil. 4:13, Col. 1:11.
We are blessed beyond words by our loving daughters who continue to rise to the occasion to make everything so joyful and easier on me and sweet for Rick; as well as Mia and Mimi who are never short on TLC.
Once again, we cannot thank you enough, also, for your prayers and love. We know God hears and answers. He is good.
We look forward to His refreshing.
Life & peace in Christ,
Dana
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
"THE FINAL ANSWER IS...."
8.3.10
Hey everyone,
Rick checked in this morning for another stay @ St. Joes. We were so excited to find out he has a private room! Nice and spacious, with a bed for me to stay tonight! An answer to prayer! Our home away from home (kinda). The girls brought Togo's and love for lunch, and later Mia brought El Torrito for dinner; along with the Arayas who brought some delicious cookies. So much love! Yum! Not too shabby for Rick's first day back on the job.
Another awesome answer to prayer! The results are back!! After 42 years, the final answer is that Rick & Mike are 100% identical! Mikewill be Rick's stem cell donor. Thank you so much for praying for this to be! As I write this, I am so happy, and at the same time emotional at this extremely special thought. The Lord is so good to create us the way He does, for His divine purpose, to use us, in His timing, for things so much bigger than we ever imagine. His plans are always perfect. We love you Mike. We love you Jesus.
Peace & grace in Christ,
Dana
Hey everyone,
Rick checked in this morning for another stay @ St. Joes. We were so excited to find out he has a private room! Nice and spacious, with a bed for me to stay tonight! An answer to prayer! Our home away from home (kinda). The girls brought Togo's and love for lunch, and later Mia brought El Torrito for dinner; along with the Arayas who brought some delicious cookies. So much love! Yum! Not too shabby for Rick's first day back on the job.
Another awesome answer to prayer! The results are back!! After 42 years, the final answer is that Rick & Mike are 100% identical! Mikewill be Rick's stem cell donor. Thank you so much for praying for this to be! As I write this, I am so happy, and at the same time emotional at this extremely special thought. The Lord is so good to create us the way He does, for His divine purpose, to use us, in His timing, for things so much bigger than we ever imagine. His plans are always perfect. We love you Mike. We love you Jesus.
Peace & grace in Christ,
Dana
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Saturday, July 31, 2010
"ALL IS WELL @ THE LANGE HOUSE"
Hello Everyone,
All is going well here at the Lange house. Praise the Lord! Rick had a follow-up appointment with Dr. M on Wednesday. His CBC looks very good! Lymphocytes (cancer cells) way down, Neutrophils (healthy white cells) nice and high! His platelets have fully recovered to a back to normal range. Thank God! Rick's vitals are good and his WBC dropped to 73,000. He is feeling some discomfort in his knees and hips; nothing that Tylenol doesn't address. This is so amazing. He continues to eat well and get a walk or the elliptical in daily (the exercise has really helped the HBP). It also continues to encourage me to see Rick working and the times he gets out of the house are very good. These past 2 weeks have been a gift of reprieve compared to the usual isolation.
We received great news on Friday! CITY OF HOPE received authorization for Rick & Mike to have HLA twin blood type testing for stem cell transplant match. They will be going in today, Saturday for this. Thank you so much for praying for this authorization to happen.
*Please pray they are a perfect match for Rick's transplant, God willing.
So, we gear up mentally, physically, and spiritually for Tuesday, Rick's 2nd round, part A- repeat of 1st round, Hyper C-Vad, 5 days of treatment. We are praying the LORD will be gracious and allow Rick to be released quickly, as soon as Sunday. St. Joes moved the oncology floor to a temporary floor beginning July 15 for one year. This means no more private rooms....bye-bye "hotel". Having a roommate will be an adjustment, however, this is small in the big scheme of life. We would greatly appreciate your prayers as we look to this next week.
*Please pray for the LORD'S perfect peace, strength and obedience to persevere
*GOD'S protection against all depression, discouragement, and struggles
*The LORD to command entire oncology staff, Dr. Mahmood, administering of chemo & all drugs, etc.
*Protection against all infections, side effects
*Total healing over Rick's body
*Joy in all circumstances
One final note. We are enormously touched by the love and generosity of Rick's beloved blood donors. Although we are only partially aware of those of you who have given thus far in honor of Rick, below is a message I've attached from our friend, Russ, that gives a broader picture.
All is going well here at the Lange house. Praise the Lord! Rick had a follow-up appointment with Dr. M on Wednesday. His CBC looks very good! Lymphocytes (cancer cells) way down, Neutrophils (healthy white cells) nice and high! His platelets have fully recovered to a back to normal range. Thank God! Rick's vitals are good and his WBC dropped to 73,000. He is feeling some discomfort in his knees and hips; nothing that Tylenol doesn't address. This is so amazing. He continues to eat well and get a walk or the elliptical in daily (the exercise has really helped the HBP). It also continues to encourage me to see Rick working and the times he gets out of the house are very good. These past 2 weeks have been a gift of reprieve compared to the usual isolation.
We received great news on Friday! CITY OF HOPE received authorization for Rick & Mike to have HLA twin blood type testing for stem cell transplant match. They will be going in today, Saturday for this. Thank you so much for praying for this authorization to happen.
*Please pray they are a perfect match for Rick's transplant, God willing.
So, we gear up mentally, physically, and spiritually for Tuesday, Rick's 2nd round, part A- repeat of 1st round, Hyper C-Vad, 5 days of treatment. We are praying the LORD will be gracious and allow Rick to be released quickly, as soon as Sunday. St. Joes moved the oncology floor to a temporary floor beginning July 15 for one year. This means no more private rooms....bye-bye "hotel". Having a roommate will be an adjustment, however, this is small in the big scheme of life. We would greatly appreciate your prayers as we look to this next week.
*Please pray for the LORD'S perfect peace, strength and obedience to persevere
*GOD'S protection against all depression, discouragement, and struggles
*The LORD to command entire oncology staff, Dr. Mahmood, administering of chemo & all drugs, etc.
*Protection against all infections, side effects
*Total healing over Rick's body
*Joy in all circumstances
One final note. We are enormously touched by the love and generosity of Rick's beloved blood donors. Although we are only partially aware of those of you who have given thus far in honor of Rick, below is a message I've attached from our friend, Russ, that gives a broader picture.
"Top of the morning to you kid! I hope this day will be a good one for you. I was thinking about you today and just wanted to drop you a note and let you know that the Stripling's have you in their prayers. I went down yesterday and donated some blood in your honor. I hope that it is good healthy blood and matches what you need. The nurses were amazed at how many people have come in to donate on your behalf. They said that you must be a very special person to have this many people who would take the time to donate for you. I let them know what an incredible person you are and that there are hundreds of people in your corner ready to help out in any way we could. They were very blown away. I hope this makes you feel good knowing how many people love you little Bro! Anyway, have a great day Bro and keep up the fight! Russ"
Thank you for loving and encouraging us so faithfully! Whether through meals, cards, phone calls, visits, hugs, emails, blood or prayers- each and every biggest to smallest thing makes all the difference.
Thank you for loving and encouraging us so faithfully! Whether through meals, cards, phone calls, visits, hugs, emails, blood or prayers- each and every biggest to smallest thing makes all the difference.
As I reflect on my posting of today's update, I marvel at God's abundant grace. The words in the Bible, the hundreds of promises He makes, to provide, protect, restore, fulfill, to never leave us, but to always love us with an EVERLASTING love; I am so proud of my Father! He gives us everything we need.
Love,
Dana
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
"THE KEEPER OF PROMISES"
Dear friends & family,
The past week has been a walk in the park, a groaning in the desert and a glorious view from the mountain tops.
Rick received a WBC last Thursday of a monumental 124,000! CRAZY!! What's even more mind-blowing is the fact that he had no bone pain. This is grace! GOD'S grace! Rick shared with me that the LORD had spoken to him about the painkillers he was using off and on for pain. ("Stop taking them. You don't need them; they are not good for you.") Rick stopped taking his painkillers 4 days before he was told his count was through the roof! NO PAIN?! Huh? The LORD is the keeper of promises. Praise GOD!!
With a WBC of 100,000+ Rick was more than protected against germ and infection to go to Kyra's dance recital with the family and friends Thursday night without a mask. He was happy. We were just stoked he was there! It was awesome! Danny & Heidi came by Friday night bearing gift- GO NOTRE DAME! Awesome fellowship. On Saturday, Rick and I took a walk in the park with Lola while Skyler & Kyra were away in Palm Springs at a church Summer Retreat for the weekend--much needed for them. Saturday night we caught up with the other Lange fam and Rick's parents for dinner, lots of laughs, and Rick and I did a little shopping afterward. We were blessed to spend Sunday morning at church together--the first in a month and went out for lunch too. The girls arrived home around 1pm and we spent hours catching up. My mom came over, with meals in tote-YUM- for next days. Rick continued to feel well and Monday's schedule afforded the 4 of us to go to the movies and out to lunch. By far, these days have been the most normal for us in a long time! A GIFT! A cherished gift.
I hope you know how much it means to Rick, the girls and me that you continue to stay close as we travel this journey that has been set before us. Forgive me/us if I don't respond to every email or phone message. At times it seems I am living someone else's life; as though I'm watching from a distance. Fewer days it's as though I imagine myself holding on to whatever will anchor me in my cyclonic angst. However, most days I am filled with an incredible peace and joy that continues to grow deeper within not only with every blessing and miracle from God but, through each pain and difficulty too. God truly is my refuge and my strength--my ever present help in all times of need.
I know it certainly has been a battle for Rick thus far; not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually too. Rick knows this season of great physical trial is truly GOD'S refining of his spirit. I can't even fathom his position but, I am so grateful for his relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His comfort compels us to rest in the unknowing, drawing us in when we drift away and commands our hearts to persevere. Press on.
As we journey through this cancer valley we are shown there are many peaks and mountain tops along the way. I pray you can see them too. Although the stretch of the alien desert has been hard to cross-- we cross, and we endure. All by the Lord's immeasurable grace. His gifts are overflowing at the top and even set before us below in the dry places. There are streams in the desert.
I live out this trial side by side, face to face, hearts entwined- Rick, Skyler, Kyra, Jesus and me, and we are constantly overwhelmed by the blessed gifts of knowing your love- your support. We are greatly humbled. Many of you have commented on the power of prayer as this has shown to be the most significant impact in Rick's positive results and unexplained miracles- our peace, our joy, our vulnerability to walk by faith and not be sight, without question, can not be manufactured. All glory to GOD! For this, we cannot thank you enough! Prayers move! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
"For He has not ignored or belittled the suffering of the needy. He has not turned His back on them, but has listened to their cries for help. He will listen to the prayers of the destitute. He will not reject their pleas.
But when you ask Him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind." Ps. 26:24; 102:17; Jm. 1:6
I am brought to tears often over the fact that so many have and continue to fervently pray for and support my precious husband and our family. Thank you for believing with us. Thank you for loving us. We love you so much too. Please keep the love coming! It is everything. LOVE.
Life & peace in Christ,
Dana
The past week has been a walk in the park, a groaning in the desert and a glorious view from the mountain tops.
Rick received a WBC last Thursday of a monumental 124,000! CRAZY!! What's even more mind-blowing is the fact that he had no bone pain. This is grace! GOD'S grace! Rick shared with me that the LORD had spoken to him about the painkillers he was using off and on for pain. ("Stop taking them. You don't need them; they are not good for you.") Rick stopped taking his painkillers 4 days before he was told his count was through the roof! NO PAIN?! Huh? The LORD is the keeper of promises. Praise GOD!!
With a WBC of 100,000+ Rick was more than protected against germ and infection to go to Kyra's dance recital with the family and friends Thursday night without a mask. He was happy. We were just stoked he was there! It was awesome! Danny & Heidi came by Friday night bearing gift- GO NOTRE DAME! Awesome fellowship. On Saturday, Rick and I took a walk in the park with Lola while Skyler & Kyra were away in Palm Springs at a church Summer Retreat for the weekend--much needed for them. Saturday night we caught up with the other Lange fam and Rick's parents for dinner, lots of laughs, and Rick and I did a little shopping afterward. We were blessed to spend Sunday morning at church together--the first in a month and went out for lunch too. The girls arrived home around 1pm and we spent hours catching up. My mom came over, with meals in tote-YUM- for next days. Rick continued to feel well and Monday's schedule afforded the 4 of us to go to the movies and out to lunch. By far, these days have been the most normal for us in a long time! A GIFT! A cherished gift.
I hope you know how much it means to Rick, the girls and me that you continue to stay close as we travel this journey that has been set before us. Forgive me/us if I don't respond to every email or phone message. At times it seems I am living someone else's life; as though I'm watching from a distance. Fewer days it's as though I imagine myself holding on to whatever will anchor me in my cyclonic angst. However, most days I am filled with an incredible peace and joy that continues to grow deeper within not only with every blessing and miracle from God but, through each pain and difficulty too. God truly is my refuge and my strength--my ever present help in all times of need.
I know it certainly has been a battle for Rick thus far; not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually too. Rick knows this season of great physical trial is truly GOD'S refining of his spirit. I can't even fathom his position but, I am so grateful for his relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His comfort compels us to rest in the unknowing, drawing us in when we drift away and commands our hearts to persevere. Press on.
As we journey through this cancer valley we are shown there are many peaks and mountain tops along the way. I pray you can see them too. Although the stretch of the alien desert has been hard to cross-- we cross, and we endure. All by the Lord's immeasurable grace. His gifts are overflowing at the top and even set before us below in the dry places. There are streams in the desert.
I live out this trial side by side, face to face, hearts entwined- Rick, Skyler, Kyra, Jesus and me, and we are constantly overwhelmed by the blessed gifts of knowing your love- your support. We are greatly humbled. Many of you have commented on the power of prayer as this has shown to be the most significant impact in Rick's positive results and unexplained miracles- our peace, our joy, our vulnerability to walk by faith and not be sight, without question, can not be manufactured. All glory to GOD! For this, we cannot thank you enough! Prayers move! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
"For He has not ignored or belittled the suffering of the needy. He has not turned His back on them, but has listened to their cries for help. He will listen to the prayers of the destitute. He will not reject their pleas.
But when you ask Him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind." Ps. 26:24; 102:17; Jm. 1:6
I am brought to tears often over the fact that so many have and continue to fervently pray for and support my precious husband and our family. Thank you for believing with us. Thank you for loving us. We love you so much too. Please keep the love coming! It is everything. LOVE.
Life & peace in Christ,
Dana
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Friday, July 23, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
"Thank You Everyone, Thank You God!"
I just came back from having my blood checked as there was a concern about my platelets being so low. The normal range is 150-450K and mine was 34k on Monday. I honestly went in today not knowing what to expect. My platelet count was 131K. Thank You Lord! Thank you for all those that prayed so diligently over the last few days for my numbers to go up. The Lord is so faithful! In addition, my white blood cell count was undetermined; I was told the machine couldn’t register or give the nurse a number. I said, "What does that mean?" She said that the number is probably too high. Now last time I had a Neulasta shot my WBC went from 1,200-94,000 which caused me an ton of pain due to the creation of cells in my bone marrow. Today, I have no pain as The Lord is relieving me of any effects. How awesome is that?!! The nurse couldn’t believe I wasn’t in "some" pain. They are sending my blood out to try and get a number of WBC. God Bless all of you and thank you so much for your prayers as I am living proof they are being answered. And as far as my blood pressure- this morning, it is back to normal.
Very, very blessed-
Rick
“I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens Me”
Philippians 4:13
Very, very blessed-
Rick
“I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens Me”
Philippians 4:13
"It is in our deepest suffering of torment and despair that we truly confess our grave need for the Savior. What explicit goodness of the Son to lead us, tenderly, without abandon, into the comforting arms of the Father. Behold, it is safe. It is pure. We are made new by the unequivocal person of Jesus Christ. By His blood we are saved daily. Thank You God."
-Dana Lange
-Dana Lange
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
"OUR DELIVERER"
Good morning dear friends & family~~
Thank you for your continued prayers, goodness, presence and encouragement! It is your love and care that affords us daily strength to persevere. God loves through people.
Although Rick is generally feeling pretty good lately, other than tired, his blood pressure continues to be on the high side. I have been encouraging him to walk now that it is cooler..since inactivity could be one of the causes. Thank you for praying. God is our great physician! He can correct this and command our body and cells to do whatever He wills. Praying for His favor upon Rick's entire body is greatly needed.
Tomorrow Rick has an appointment to get blood count checked again. His platelets are low. 150.0-450.0 is normal range. His was 34.0 on Monday. If it drops to 20.0 he will be given a platelet transfusion. Praying God will recover his blood levels and strength. Total healing from all cancer, all disease! GOD is Awesome! GOD is able! Please never cease in going to One saves; the One who created you and me, the whole world and Rick too! The One who Knows his every cell and organ and breaths the life into each of us daily. Thank You GOD! Thank You Jesus! He will fight for us!
With love and deep gratitude,
Dana
David sang to the LORD the words of this song when the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul.
He said:
"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,
my shield and the horn of my salvation.
He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—
from violent men you save me.
I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise,
and I am saved from my enemies.
"The waves of death swirled about me;
the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me.
The cords of the grave coiled around me;
the snares of death confronted me.
In my distress I called to the LORD;
I called out to my God.
From his temple he heard my voice;
my cry came to his ears.
"The earth trembled and quaked,
the foundations of the heavens shook;
they trembled because he was angry.
Smoke rose from his nostrils;
consuming fire came from his mouth,
burning coals blazed out of it.
He parted the heavens and came down;
dark clouds were under his feet.
He mounted the cherubim and flew;
he soared on the wings of the wind.
He made darkness his canopy around him—
the dark rain clouds of the sky.
Out of the brightness of his presence
bolts of lightning blazed forth.
The LORD thundered from heaven;
the voice of the Most High resounded.
He shot arrows and scattered the enemies ,
bolts of lightning and routed them.
The valleys of the sea were exposed
and the foundations of the earth laid bare
at the rebuke of the LORD,
at the blast of breath from his nostrils.
"He reached down from on high and took hold of me;
he drew me out of deep waters.
He rescued me from my powerful enemy,
from my foes, who were too strong for me.
They confronted me in the day of my disaster,
but the LORD was my support.
He brought me out into a spacious place;
he rescued me because he delighted in me.
"The LORD has dealt with me according to my righteousness;
according to the cleanness of my hands he has rewarded me.
For I have kept the ways of the LORD;
I have not done evil by turning from my God.
All his laws are before me;
I have not turned away from his decrees.
I have been blameless before him
and have kept myself from sin.
The LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness,
according to my cleanness in his sight.
"To the faithful you show yourself faithful,
to the blameless you show yourself blameless,
to the pure you show yourself pure,
but to the crooked you show yourself shrewd.
You save the humble,
but your eyes are on the haughty to bring them low.
You are my lamp, O LORD;
the LORD turns my darkness into light.
With your help I can advance against a troop;
with my God I can scale a wall.
"As for God, his way is perfect;
the word of the LORD is flawless.
He is a shield
for all who take refuge in him.
For who is God besides the LORD ?
And who is the Rock except our God?
It is God who arms me with strength
and makes my way perfect.
He makes my feet like the feet of a deer;
he enables me to stand on the heights.
He trains my hands for battle;
my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
You give me your shield of victory;
you stoop down to make me great.
You broaden the path beneath me,
so that my ankles do not turn.
"I pursued my enemies and crushed them;
I did not turn back till they were destroyed.
I crushed them completely, and they could not rise;
they fell beneath my feet.
You armed me with strength for battle;
you made my adversaries bow at my feet.
You made my enemies turn their backs in flight,
and I destroyed my foes.
They cried for help, but there was no one to save them—
to the LORD, but he did not answer.
I beat them as fine as the dust of the earth;
I pounded and trampled them like mud in the streets.
"You have delivered me from the attacks of my people;
you have preserved me as the head of nations.
People I did not know are subject to me,
and foreigners come cringing to me;
as soon as they hear me, they obey me.
They all lose heart;
they come trembling from their strongholds.
"The LORD lives!
Praise be to my Rock!
Exalted be God, the Rock, my Savior!
He is the God who avenges me,
who puts the nations under me,
who sets me free from my enemies.
You exalted me above my foes;
from violent men you rescued me.
Therefore I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations;
I will sing praises to your name.
He gives his king great victories;
He shows unfailing kindness to his anointed,
to David and his descendants forever."
- 2 Samuel 22
Praise Christ Jesus, all who are called David's descendants!
Thank you for your continued prayers, goodness, presence and encouragement! It is your love and care that affords us daily strength to persevere. God loves through people.
Although Rick is generally feeling pretty good lately, other than tired, his blood pressure continues to be on the high side. I have been encouraging him to walk now that it is cooler..since inactivity could be one of the causes. Thank you for praying. God is our great physician! He can correct this and command our body and cells to do whatever He wills. Praying for His favor upon Rick's entire body is greatly needed.
Tomorrow Rick has an appointment to get blood count checked again. His platelets are low. 150.0-450.0 is normal range. His was 34.0 on Monday. If it drops to 20.0 he will be given a platelet transfusion. Praying God will recover his blood levels and strength. Total healing from all cancer, all disease! GOD is Awesome! GOD is able! Please never cease in going to One saves; the One who created you and me, the whole world and Rick too! The One who Knows his every cell and organ and breaths the life into each of us daily. Thank You GOD! Thank You Jesus! He will fight for us!
With love and deep gratitude,
Dana
David sang to the LORD the words of this song when the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul.
He said:
"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,
my shield and the horn of my salvation.
He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—
from violent men you save me.
I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise,
and I am saved from my enemies.
"The waves of death swirled about me;
the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me.
The cords of the grave coiled around me;
the snares of death confronted me.
In my distress I called to the LORD;
I called out to my God.
From his temple he heard my voice;
my cry came to his ears.
"The earth trembled and quaked,
the foundations of the heavens shook;
they trembled because he was angry.
Smoke rose from his nostrils;
consuming fire came from his mouth,
burning coals blazed out of it.
He parted the heavens and came down;
dark clouds were under his feet.
He mounted the cherubim and flew;
he soared on the wings of the wind.
He made darkness his canopy around him—
the dark rain clouds of the sky.
Out of the brightness of his presence
bolts of lightning blazed forth.
The LORD thundered from heaven;
the voice of the Most High resounded.
He shot arrows and scattered the enemies ,
bolts of lightning and routed them.
The valleys of the sea were exposed
and the foundations of the earth laid bare
at the rebuke of the LORD,
at the blast of breath from his nostrils.
"He reached down from on high and took hold of me;
he drew me out of deep waters.
He rescued me from my powerful enemy,
from my foes, who were too strong for me.
They confronted me in the day of my disaster,
but the LORD was my support.
He brought me out into a spacious place;
he rescued me because he delighted in me.
"The LORD has dealt with me according to my righteousness;
according to the cleanness of my hands he has rewarded me.
For I have kept the ways of the LORD;
I have not done evil by turning from my God.
All his laws are before me;
I have not turned away from his decrees.
I have been blameless before him
and have kept myself from sin.
The LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness,
according to my cleanness in his sight.
"To the faithful you show yourself faithful,
to the blameless you show yourself blameless,
to the pure you show yourself pure,
but to the crooked you show yourself shrewd.
You save the humble,
but your eyes are on the haughty to bring them low.
You are my lamp, O LORD;
the LORD turns my darkness into light.
With your help I can advance against a troop;
with my God I can scale a wall.
"As for God, his way is perfect;
the word of the LORD is flawless.
He is a shield
for all who take refuge in him.
For who is God besides the LORD ?
And who is the Rock except our God?
It is God who arms me with strength
and makes my way perfect.
He makes my feet like the feet of a deer;
he enables me to stand on the heights.
He trains my hands for battle;
my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
You give me your shield of victory;
you stoop down to make me great.
You broaden the path beneath me,
so that my ankles do not turn.
"I pursued my enemies and crushed them;
I did not turn back till they were destroyed.
I crushed them completely, and they could not rise;
they fell beneath my feet.
You armed me with strength for battle;
you made my adversaries bow at my feet.
You made my enemies turn their backs in flight,
and I destroyed my foes.
They cried for help, but there was no one to save them—
to the LORD, but he did not answer.
I beat them as fine as the dust of the earth;
I pounded and trampled them like mud in the streets.
"You have delivered me from the attacks of my people;
you have preserved me as the head of nations.
People I did not know are subject to me,
and foreigners come cringing to me;
as soon as they hear me, they obey me.
They all lose heart;
they come trembling from their strongholds.
"The LORD lives!
Praise be to my Rock!
Exalted be God, the Rock, my Savior!
He is the God who avenges me,
who puts the nations under me,
who sets me free from my enemies.
You exalted me above my foes;
from violent men you rescued me.
Therefore I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations;
I will sing praises to your name.
He gives his king great victories;
He shows unfailing kindness to his anointed,
to David and his descendants forever."
- 2 Samuel 22
Praise Christ Jesus, all who are called David's descendants!
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