Friday, August 15, 2008

Crazy Times but Comforted by Christ

Sorry everybody, it has been a while. But, there have been many things happening and I have been just trying to take in life lately. I have been making my devo time in the morning consistent, because I sure need it these days and Christ needs to be first. He has been mine and Michaels true source of comfort, peace and joy.

Well, here is the new update: Mom was diagnosed with Melanoma Cancer(yes, usually skin cancer), but it is inside her liver, lung and breast. The tumor in her liver and her lung are both an inch in diameter. Once someone has melanoma inside their body it is an automatic Stage 4 diagnosis. For those of you wondering, there are only 4 stages. So, they have given her 9 months to live. Surgery is not an option because opening up those areas where the cancer is will only make it spread further. Chemo therapy does not work all that well. There is a chemo pill that has been proven to reduce the size of the tumor and she will start that in two weeks. It will not remove the tumor but could lengthen life expectancy and will definitely relieve pain. So, that is where we are now.

Michael and I will be in Bowling Green, Ky. every other weekend and we will be taking a family vacation after her second round of chemo pills, which will be in two months.

My mom and dad are doing well. We had a praise report the other day. The cancer is NOT in her brain or in her bones and that is a huge praise. We prayed a lot about this and God was mercifully gracious to us in allowing this disease not to be in those two areas. We are so thankful to God for that great answer to prayer! My dad is sweet, his new mantra is, "This double sucks." My dad is still enamored by his wife and loves her dearly. Their love for each other is very evident and it breaks my heart that my dad has to go through this. We love my parents a lot and are so thankful for them and their dedication to Christ during this very difficult time. My mom believes that God wants to use this time for us to show others how to be strong and joyful during hard times. She is usually the prophet of the family and I really believe that is what God wants us to do, even though at moments its really difficult. Especially, in my jobs where it's best to have a smile on my face most of the time. My Chick-Fil-A family has been superb. The owner prayed over me and one of my co-workers prayed for me. I am so honored to work at that great company! God is Good. Michael and I are just seeking God and being there for one another.

No news on Michael's mom.

How is everyone else? How is God working in your life? Share your stories of times when God strengthened you in a really tough time. I would love to hear your stories.

How can I be praying for you all.

Love to you all,
Susan

4 comments:

Sarah said...

Susan, Thanks for sharing with us. We love you all! Please give our love to your mom and dad. His strength is perfect when we don't understand and have no strength of our own. We will continue to pray for amazing grace, that His glory would be seen and that He would be lifted up during these difficult and challenging days. Love, the Afflecks

Anonymous said...

Hey Susan & Michael -- Love you both! I will be praying!! When I was pregnant with Audrey we lost both my dad and Bob's dad within the last trimester of my pregnancy - to cancer and a massive heart attack. So, I'm crying just thinking about what you are facing. However, I know that it was our faith that saw us thru that time!! Keep the faith dear ones and know that many people are praying for you and your parents! I love your mom's attitude -- she is an amazing lady. God will provide the strength that everyone needs in this time.
In HIS Grip, Denise Smith & Family

Healthy Chelle said...

I have had the opportunity to share a verse with many people over the last few weeks (right Denise!) and I guess it's my time to share it with you...

"Be anxious for nothing. But in all things, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, make your requests be made known to God. And His peace, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your heart and mind as you live in Christ Jesus."

Will you be in town this weekend or in Bowling Green? Ash will be in town and I'd love to go get a Starbucks with you two.

Simple Creeed Youth Ministry said...

We will be in Bowling Green. I would have loved some Starbucks, hopefully we can try it again soon.
Miss you friend.
Susan