How do we thank God enough?...
....by continuing always, in offering our hearts to Him, in thanksgiving.
As we drove the freeway stretch from City of Hope today, our hearts full of gratitude and joy, I asked myself, "How can I ever thank God enough?..." Rick's "100th day" follow-up (as they call it in transplant land) was today. The clouds crisp white interrupting shades of blue and gray. Sun sparce, piercing through. How vast, yet simple, the beauty of God.
This day.
Today.
What was planned to be a 9 to 5 job today finished with abundant gifts.
I remained in the radiology lounge, with book and pencil in hand, as Rick was led to the 2 hour process of radiation dye injection and scans. I receive a text 30 minutes later "Hey Nudz, (a long-time nickname we both share...long story), they just finished injecting the radiation." My thoughts dropped all train. Once again, this is real. Immediate petition. Mercy. Grace. Total healing. And thanksgiving. Within 2 hours, Scans complete. We headed to Dr. Nades office.
As we walked through the separated buildings of familiar territory, reminiscing of weeks in the Fall past, I realize miracle again.
Transplant date- November 12th. Release date- November 26. Typical in-patient recovery, a good 4 weeks, sometimes months, challenged the sovereignty of God.
Checking in, we are blessed to see the doctor three hours earlier than our scheduled appointment. The swiftness of the mornings prior events (blood work and scans) showed favorable, our time in Duarte cut in half. Who doesn't appreciate that?
Vitals taken. Check. All is good! Dr. Nade enters, her kind love smiles confidence.
Blood work results. Check. All is real good! Right on track. Scan results in. Check. Internal searching speak clear. All is great!
Breath prayers of gratitude fill the room. Our patient, fairing better than well, hearts rejoice! Dr. Nade appoints Rick's next visit 3
months out! A bone marrow biopsy to look forward to in May, we continue to pray. To thank.
Today, a gift, a reason to celebrate. Rick and I share lunch, a favorite place, and embrace all things. Togetherness. Remission. Soft, warm bread, tart, soaking up pools of olive oil and balsamic. Memories of abundant grace. Life. Today. Now.
It is with all gratitude and love, we give thanks to you for being a big reason to celebrate.
Grace and peace, in Christ,
Dana
With deepest love, we will remember always, our sweet grandmother, Alicia Rovello, 85, full of compassion and kindness, laughter and love, who went home to our Lord February 16, 2011.
Also, precious Brielle Murray, 13, and cherished friend, Suzanne Afram, both taken by cancer into the arms of our Savior.
We are forever touched by these beautiful lives lived abundantly and out loud for Jesus. May all comfort and peace cover grieving hearts.
Thank You God.
I see as I offer sacrifice of thanks, peace floods.
Gratitude always precedes peace.
May you be given God's peace today as your heart gives thanks to Him in all things.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
"IT'S NOT ABOUT ME"
It's been nearly 12 months since we received the results of Ricks abnormal white blood cell count, 10 weeks since he left PICC line and IVs at City of Hope.
How is it that a man discovers, battles and recovers from stage 4 blood cancer in under a year?
Only minor residue is currently present of this enemy attack.
Where there is a head without hair, there is peace and gratitude that covers.
A few extra Rx supportive of immune system remain where new stem cells have knocked out need for blood pressure medication.
Monthly follow-ups assessing recovery.
I never thought, to go through something that is meant to terrify, would reward so greatly.
The goal was remission, healing.
It always is.
But, what happens when a man walks away from a war with mortality, and is more alive than before he entered battle?
Grace abounds.
I've heard stories of soldiers who've come home, after standing face to face with the enemy. It's hard to forget. It's
impossible to forget. This head-on collision with death threats and terror seep deep into the earth of the soul.
Like war, cancer lives to destroy body, mind and hope.
Is it possible to walk away and only [remember] the miracles, the goodness, the blessing of it all?
Rick is more than a cancer patient in remission. He is also a heart patient in the hands of the Greatest Physician, the Lord Jesus Christ. As we prayed and prayed and still pray for complete healing, this is what continues. The renewing grace of a willing heart. A heart of flesh, a softer, more tender heart, molding to the will of the Creator.
The evidence of this heart surgery supersedes all things cancer attempts to destroy in our home. Each of us, a family of heart
patients under the lancet of the LORD, look forward, not back, living in today, with more love, more peace, more gratitude, and more purpose knowing more than ever, our only hope is Jesus.
Exodus 14:14 says, "The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still."
Stillness in the storm.
Today, life is calmer.
Rick's last follow-up appointment, January 27, went well. Blood levels on track, with a favorable 5 lb. weight gain. His "100th day" soon approaches. This means new assessments. Dr. Nade has ordered a PT Scan for the end of February. We are praying for clear results-continued remission. He is doing better than ever, Praise God! I testify to this with amazement and joy! His energy and strength allow for business, family time, exercise and church commitments. Also, looking forward to a family trip to New York this summer. God is so good!
I take rest in the calm He provides today.
But, my mind thinks hard on those around us who are fighting similar battles. Some not fairing as easily. My heart cries for the mother whose beautiful little girl fights for her last days, for the mourning children and adoring husband of the sick young mother and wife left behind.
How is it that one man has victory over disease and another doesn't?
I ask God this often. Why has He given me peace? Why has He allowed my husband to be healed? Why has He blessed my family this way?
Rick came home today talking about an interview he listened to on the radio. About a pastor who recently led a Christian missionary team to Egypt. In the midst of the political protests and riots, the tour guide cocked his ooze as he desperately scrambled to get his group to safety. The team was led to the airport where thousands of people, including American citizens, piling and pushing, elbowing their way through, racing for flights [unavailable]. Lost in all of the media scramble is one of the most frightening major reasons for these riots: Christian Persecution. I contrast this with Skyler's recent mission trip to Haiti. A foreigner in a foreign land amongst tens of thousands of Haitians crowding the streets. The day of the one year anniversary of Haiti's devastating quake was profoundly celebrated with dancing and singing by the people, all for the glory of Jesus Christ.
How is it that one man faces persecution and death in warfare while another receives blessing of joy and revival?
Regardless of the person, place or thing, His explanation rings the same to me: "Its not about you. Or your family. Or the others, those suffering, mourning, even rejoicing. Just as it's not about the wars, the riots or the cancer. Search deeper-- It's about My glory, My plan. It's about My Son."
"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Jesus Christ." Rom. 8:28, Eph. 1:9
Every life, every circumstance, divinely purposed.
For the first time in my life, peace replaces fear. I find peace in learning to understand and embrace that suffering if part of living,
part of growing. A very big part. An very important part.
We don't know what tomorrow has for us, but we do know who we can count on today for our tomorrows--the One who is the same yesterday, today and forever.
- Hide quoted text -
With deep thanks and affection, we thank God for your prayers and constant love. May He hear and honor all pleading requests for peace, strength, comfort and abundant healing, in our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Love,
Dana
PSALM 23
The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
He leads me beside quiet waters,
He refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for His name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely Your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
How is it that a man discovers, battles and recovers from stage 4 blood cancer in under a year?
Only minor residue is currently present of this enemy attack.
Where there is a head without hair, there is peace and gratitude that covers.
A few extra Rx supportive of immune system remain where new stem cells have knocked out need for blood pressure medication.
Monthly follow-ups assessing recovery.
I never thought, to go through something that is meant to terrify, would reward so greatly.
The goal was remission, healing.
It always is.
But, what happens when a man walks away from a war with mortality, and is more alive than before he entered battle?
Grace abounds.
I've heard stories of soldiers who've come home, after standing face to face with the enemy. It's hard to forget. It's
impossible to forget. This head-on collision with death threats and terror seep deep into the earth of the soul.
Like war, cancer lives to destroy body, mind and hope.
Is it possible to walk away and only [remember] the miracles, the goodness, the blessing of it all?
Rick is more than a cancer patient in remission. He is also a heart patient in the hands of the Greatest Physician, the Lord Jesus Christ. As we prayed and prayed and still pray for complete healing, this is what continues. The renewing grace of a willing heart. A heart of flesh, a softer, more tender heart, molding to the will of the Creator.
The evidence of this heart surgery supersedes all things cancer attempts to destroy in our home. Each of us, a family of heart
patients under the lancet of the LORD, look forward, not back, living in today, with more love, more peace, more gratitude, and more purpose knowing more than ever, our only hope is Jesus.
Exodus 14:14 says, "The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still."
Stillness in the storm.
Today, life is calmer.
Rick's last follow-up appointment, January 27, went well. Blood levels on track, with a favorable 5 lb. weight gain. His "100th day" soon approaches. This means new assessments. Dr. Nade has ordered a PT Scan for the end of February. We are praying for clear results-continued remission. He is doing better than ever, Praise God! I testify to this with amazement and joy! His energy and strength allow for business, family time, exercise and church commitments. Also, looking forward to a family trip to New York this summer. God is so good!
I take rest in the calm He provides today.
But, my mind thinks hard on those around us who are fighting similar battles. Some not fairing as easily. My heart cries for the mother whose beautiful little girl fights for her last days, for the mourning children and adoring husband of the sick young mother and wife left behind.
How is it that one man has victory over disease and another doesn't?
I ask God this often. Why has He given me peace? Why has He allowed my husband to be healed? Why has He blessed my family this way?
Rick came home today talking about an interview he listened to on the radio. About a pastor who recently led a Christian missionary team to Egypt. In the midst of the political protests and riots, the tour guide cocked his ooze as he desperately scrambled to get his group to safety. The team was led to the airport where thousands of people, including American citizens, piling and pushing, elbowing their way through, racing for flights [unavailable]. Lost in all of the media scramble is one of the most frightening major reasons for these riots: Christian Persecution. I contrast this with Skyler's recent mission trip to Haiti. A foreigner in a foreign land amongst tens of thousands of Haitians crowding the streets. The day of the one year anniversary of Haiti's devastating quake was profoundly celebrated with dancing and singing by the people, all for the glory of Jesus Christ.
How is it that one man faces persecution and death in warfare while another receives blessing of joy and revival?
Regardless of the person, place or thing, His explanation rings the same to me: "Its not about you. Or your family. Or the others, those suffering, mourning, even rejoicing. Just as it's not about the wars, the riots or the cancer. Search deeper-- It's about My glory, My plan. It's about My Son."
"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Jesus Christ." Rom. 8:28, Eph. 1:9
Every life, every circumstance, divinely purposed.
For the first time in my life, peace replaces fear. I find peace in learning to understand and embrace that suffering if part of living,
part of growing. A very big part. An very important part.
We don't know what tomorrow has for us, but we do know who we can count on today for our tomorrows--the One who is the same yesterday, today and forever.
- Hide quoted text -
With deep thanks and affection, we thank God for your prayers and constant love. May He hear and honor all pleading requests for peace, strength, comfort and abundant healing, in our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Love,
Dana
PSALM 23
The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
He leads me beside quiet waters,
He refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for His name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely Your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
It's been nearly 12 months since we received the results of Ricks abnormal white blood cell count, 10 weeks since he left PICC line and IVs at City of Hope.
How is it that a man discovers, battles and recovers from stage 4 blood cancer in under a year?
Only minor residue is currently present of this enemy attack.
Where there is a head without hair, there is peace and gratitude that covers.
A few extra Rx supportive of immune system remain where new stem cells have knocked out need for blood pressure medication.
Monthly follow-ups assessing recovery.
I never thought, to go through something that is meant to terrify, would reward so greatly.
The goal was remission, healing.
It always is.
But, what happens when a man walks away from a war with mortality, and is more alive than before he entered battle?
Grace abounds.
I've heard stories of soldiers who've come home, after standing face to face with the enemy. It's hard to forget. It's
impossible to forget. This head-on collision with death threats and terror seep deep into the earth of the soul.
Like war, cancer lives to destroy body, mind and hope.
Is it possible to walk away and only [remember] the miracles, the goodness, the blessing of it all?
Rick is more than a cancer patient in remission. He is also a heart patient in the hands of the Greatest Physician, the Lord Jesus Christ. As we prayed and prayed and still pray for complete healing, this is what continues. The renewing grace of a willing heart. A heart of flesh, a softer, more tender heart, molding to the will of the Creator.
The evidence of this heart surgery supersedes all things cancer attempts to destroy in our home. Each of us, a family of heart
patients under the lancet of the LORD, look forward, not back, living in today, with more love, more peace, more gratitude, and more purpose knowing more than ever, our only hope is Jesus.
Exodus 14:14 says, "The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still."
Stillness in the storm.
Today, life is calmer.
Rick's last follow-up appointment, January 27, went well. Blood levels on track, with a favorable 5 lb. weight gain. His "100th day" soon approaches. This means new assessments. Dr. Nade has ordered a PT Scan for the end of February. We are praying for clear results-continued remission. He is doing better than ever, Praise God! I testify to this with amazement and joy! His energy and strength allow for business, family time, exercise and church commitments. Also, looking forward to a family trip to New York this summer. God is so good!
I take rest in the calm He provides today.
But, my mind thinks hard on those around us who are fighting similar battles. Some not fairing as easily. My heart cries for the mother whose beautiful little girl fights for her last days, for the mourning children and adoring husband of the sick young mother and wife left behind.
How is it that one man has victory over disease and another doesn't?
I ask God this often. Why has He given me peace? Why has He allowed my husband to be healed? Why has He blessed my family this way?
Rick came home today talking about an interview he listened to on the radio. About a pastor who recently led a Christian missionary team to Egypt. In the midst of the political protests and riots, the tour guide cocked his ooze as he desperately scrambled to get his group to safety. The team was led to the airport where thousands of people, including American citizens, piling and pushing, elbowing their way through, racing for flights [unavailable]. Lost in all of the media scramble is one of the most frightening major reasons for these riots: Christian Persecution. I contrast this with Skyler's recent mission trip to Haiti. A foreigner in a foreign land amongst tens of thousands of Haitians crowding the streets. The day of the one year anniversary of Haiti's devastating quake was profoundly celebrated with dancing and singing by the people, all for the glory of Jesus Christ.
How is it that one man faces persecution and death in warfare while another receives blessing of joy and revival?
Regardless of the person, place or thing, His explanation rings the same to me: "Its not about you. Or your family. Or the others, those suffering, mourning, even rejoicing. Just as it's not about the wars, the riots or the cancer. Search deeper-- It's about My glory, My plan. It's about My Son."
"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Jesus Christ." Rom. 8:28, Eph. 1:9
Every life, every circumstance, divinely purposed.
For the first time in my life, peace replaces fear. I find peace in learning to understand and embrace that suffering if part of living,
part of growing. A very big part. An very important part.
We don't know what tomorrow has for us, but we do know who we can count on today for our tomorrows--the One who is the same yesterday, today and forever.
- Hide quoted text -
With deep thanks and affection, we thank God for your prayers and constant love. May He hear and honor all pleading requests for peace, strength, comfort and abundant healing, in our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Love,
Dana
PSALM 23
The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
He leads me beside quiet waters,
He refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for His name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely Your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
How is it that a man discovers, battles and recovers from stage 4 blood cancer in under a year?
Only minor residue is currently present of this enemy attack.
Where there is a head without hair, there is peace and gratitude that covers.
A few extra Rx supportive of immune system remain where new stem cells have knocked out need for blood pressure medication.
Monthly follow-ups assessing recovery.
I never thought, to go through something that is meant to terrify, would reward so greatly.
The goal was remission, healing.
It always is.
But, what happens when a man walks away from a war with mortality, and is more alive than before he entered battle?
Grace abounds.
I've heard stories of soldiers who've come home, after standing face to face with the enemy. It's hard to forget. It's
impossible to forget. This head-on collision with death threats and terror seep deep into the earth of the soul.
Like war, cancer lives to destroy body, mind and hope.
Is it possible to walk away and only [remember] the miracles, the goodness, the blessing of it all?
Rick is more than a cancer patient in remission. He is also a heart patient in the hands of the Greatest Physician, the Lord Jesus Christ. As we prayed and prayed and still pray for complete healing, this is what continues. The renewing grace of a willing heart. A heart of flesh, a softer, more tender heart, molding to the will of the Creator.
The evidence of this heart surgery supersedes all things cancer attempts to destroy in our home. Each of us, a family of heart
patients under the lancet of the LORD, look forward, not back, living in today, with more love, more peace, more gratitude, and more purpose knowing more than ever, our only hope is Jesus.
Exodus 14:14 says, "The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still."
Stillness in the storm.
Today, life is calmer.
Rick's last follow-up appointment, January 27, went well. Blood levels on track, with a favorable 5 lb. weight gain. His "100th day" soon approaches. This means new assessments. Dr. Nade has ordered a PT Scan for the end of February. We are praying for clear results-continued remission. He is doing better than ever, Praise God! I testify to this with amazement and joy! His energy and strength allow for business, family time, exercise and church commitments. Also, looking forward to a family trip to New York this summer. God is so good!
I take rest in the calm He provides today.
But, my mind thinks hard on those around us who are fighting similar battles. Some not fairing as easily. My heart cries for the mother whose beautiful little girl fights for her last days, for the mourning children and adoring husband of the sick young mother and wife left behind.
How is it that one man has victory over disease and another doesn't?
I ask God this often. Why has He given me peace? Why has He allowed my husband to be healed? Why has He blessed my family this way?
Rick came home today talking about an interview he listened to on the radio. About a pastor who recently led a Christian missionary team to Egypt. In the midst of the political protests and riots, the tour guide cocked his ooze as he desperately scrambled to get his group to safety. The team was led to the airport where thousands of people, including American citizens, piling and pushing, elbowing their way through, racing for flights [unavailable]. Lost in all of the media scramble is one of the most frightening major reasons for these riots: Christian Persecution. I contrast this with Skyler's recent mission trip to Haiti. A foreigner in a foreign land amongst tens of thousands of Haitians crowding the streets. The day of the one year anniversary of Haiti's devastating quake was profoundly celebrated with dancing and singing by the people, all for the glory of Jesus Christ.
How is it that one man faces persecution and death in warfare while another receives blessing of joy and revival?
Regardless of the person, place or thing, His explanation rings the same to me: "Its not about you. Or your family. Or the others, those suffering, mourning, even rejoicing. Just as it's not about the wars, the riots or the cancer. Search deeper-- It's about My glory, My plan. It's about My Son."
"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Jesus Christ." Rom. 8:28, Eph. 1:9
Every life, every circumstance, divinely purposed.
For the first time in my life, peace replaces fear. I find peace in learning to understand and embrace that suffering if part of living,
part of growing. A very big part. An very important part.
We don't know what tomorrow has for us, but we do know who we can count on today for our tomorrows--the One who is the same yesterday, today and forever.
- Hide quoted text -
With deep thanks and affection, we thank God for your prayers and constant love. May He hear and honor all pleading requests for peace, strength, comfort and abundant healing, in our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Love,
Dana
PSALM 23
The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
He leads me beside quiet waters,
He refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for His name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely Your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
"What the heck just happened?"
Happy 2011 everyone!
We hope your Christmas and New Year's celebrations were very special. As you can imagine, ours was a month of rest, peace and divine blessing. Being together, with no expectation other than a heart of gratitude and praise was a tremendous gift! Thank you so much for your holiday greetings, emails and prayers. The Lord continues to meet us where we are, both as a family and individually.
And so we are here...2011, and January has already shown favorable for Rick thus far! His last follow-up appointment was fantastic!! Blood work revealed all levels right on target! We are so grateful that since his release following the transplant he has not needed any transfusions. Both blood and platelet levels are great! His medication list is shrinking...and he was given a 1 month out follow-up for next visit! He is about half way through his 100-day follow-up stage and lookin' good! The best news for Rick was to hear he was fit to get back to work, church and the gym!! He returned to the office full-time this past Monday, Jan. 3rd. He "feels so blessed to be back at work. KMJ has been incredibly supportive and continue to be amazing people to
work for and along side." His energy level is honestly better than I expected. Rick gets to the gym a few times a week now, and so far, manages his strength throughout the day at work. Plus, he still has some left when he gets home after a full day, to give to the girls and me, (and Lola!).
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your constant prayers! They have been answered, and in miraculous ways! Yes, God hears! Yes, He is faithful and good! The testimony of His grace and favor upon Rick and our family is extremely humbling.
As I reflect back over the last 10 months, I am in awe...
Of God's gracious love,
His wonder and power,
And His beauty.
To begin to think that in less than a year we discovered, battled and claimed victory over stage 4 cancer blows my mind!
What the heck "just" happened? I can't explain just how this journey has enriched our lives, on many levels. We thank our Lord for every single one of you who have endured with us in love, labored with us in prayer, and rejoiced with us in victory!
All Glory to God!
We continue to pray for you, our beloved friends and family. We know full well that God is in complete control of all. We know that in ALL things God works for the good of those who love Him. Even hardships and trials. Especially hardships and trials! We pray that your love and trust in God, through His Son, Jesus Christ, will be manifested and increase all the more in this new year as ours was in the last. As we look to the future and what it might bring, we know continuous prayer and believing on the Lord for all things is and will always be our biggest defense and our only hope! We would love to hear from you, to share in your victories and stand with you in your cares. Please write as we would be blessed to keep in touch.
Can't wait to see what the Lord does this year!!
Hallelujah!
New year, new life & peace, in Christ-
Rick, Dana, Skyler and Kyra
We hope your Christmas and New Year's celebrations were very special. As you can imagine, ours was a month of rest, peace and divine blessing. Being together, with no expectation other than a heart of gratitude and praise was a tremendous gift! Thank you so much for your holiday greetings, emails and prayers. The Lord continues to meet us where we are, both as a family and individually.
And so we are here...2011, and January has already shown favorable for Rick thus far! His last follow-up appointment was fantastic!! Blood work revealed all levels right on target! We are so grateful that since his release following the transplant he has not needed any transfusions. Both blood and platelet levels are great! His medication list is shrinking...and he was given a 1 month out follow-up for next visit! He is about half way through his 100-day follow-up stage and lookin' good! The best news for Rick was to hear he was fit to get back to work, church and the gym!! He returned to the office full-time this past Monday, Jan. 3rd. He "feels so blessed to be back at work. KMJ has been incredibly supportive and continue to be amazing people to
work for and along side." His energy level is honestly better than I expected. Rick gets to the gym a few times a week now, and so far, manages his strength throughout the day at work. Plus, he still has some left when he gets home after a full day, to give to the girls and me, (and Lola!).
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your constant prayers! They have been answered, and in miraculous ways! Yes, God hears! Yes, He is faithful and good! The testimony of His grace and favor upon Rick and our family is extremely humbling.
As I reflect back over the last 10 months, I am in awe...
Of God's gracious love,
His wonder and power,
And His beauty.
To begin to think that in less than a year we discovered, battled and claimed victory over stage 4 cancer blows my mind!
What the heck "just" happened? I can't explain just how this journey has enriched our lives, on many levels. We thank our Lord for every single one of you who have endured with us in love, labored with us in prayer, and rejoiced with us in victory!
All Glory to God!
We continue to pray for you, our beloved friends and family. We know full well that God is in complete control of all. We know that in ALL things God works for the good of those who love Him. Even hardships and trials. Especially hardships and trials! We pray that your love and trust in God, through His Son, Jesus Christ, will be manifested and increase all the more in this new year as ours was in the last. As we look to the future and what it might bring, we know continuous prayer and believing on the Lord for all things is and will always be our biggest defense and our only hope! We would love to hear from you, to share in your victories and stand with you in your cares. Please write as we would be blessed to keep in touch.
Can't wait to see what the Lord does this year!!
Hallelujah!
New year, new life & peace, in Christ-
Rick, Dana, Skyler and Kyra
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
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