Fight On

Today was a big day--the day I met with my oncologist after he and many other specialists viewed my "case" at a Tumor Board.  A lot of people asked me if I was anxious, but surprisingly I wasn't.  I think I was just trying to be realistic and hopeful at the same time.  The last few times I had appointments, the news didn't come back the way I wanted-- but each time I was more determined to fight this with faith and the Ultimate Healer, Jesus--so I headed in today, ready for battle.

But today, the report was different--it was filled with hope. Yes, I still have cancer, but here is the basic news:

*I do have three spots on my liver that are small and have cancer in them, but based on where they are, they are treatable with chemo, radiation and surgery.

*I still have the colon cancer and that is also treatable with chemo, radiation and surgery.

I said to my doctor, "So this is good news?" and he responded, "NO, this is GREAT NEWS."  He said that 9 out of 10 of his patients he isn't able to give this kind of report. And then he added, "But for the next six months you are going to get pretty beat up."  And I said, "Bring it on--I am ready to fight."

"For the Lord your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory." Deuteronomy 20:4.

Here are the next steps:

*Next week I get a port put into my upper chest/shoulder area--this is where the systemic chemotherapy drugs will be injected.  I will begin going to chemotherapy one full day (about six hours) every other week for two-four months.  At two months they will check on the images and decided whether to continue chemo and add radiation, or just keep going with chemo.  And just so all of you know--I was fully prepared to lose my hair--my youth group girls had planned on dyeing it rainbow colors before I had to shave it.  But guess what?  I probably won't lose my hair--it might thin a little, (but I am still sporting my big 80's hair, so a little thinning will probably be a good thing).

At some point radiation will also be added.  And then I will have surgery on my colon and my liver, followed possibly by more chemo.  The time line is about six-seven months. And the hopeful outcome is that I will be cancer free!

Just like many other cancer patients out there who are battling this enemy, I have a fight in front of me. I can still work, exercise,and enjoy time with friends and family, but I will have to listen to my body. If I am tired or weak, I will need to slow down. I am already surrounded by an incredible support system who will step up any time when I need help with the boys, and when I need help at work.

This is a battle--and it needs to be fought not just with chemotherapy, radiation, great doctors, and surgery-- but with the power of prayer and with Jesus.  I am convinced that I got this news because I have mighty prayer warriors interceding on my behalf.

The battle is ON.  Bring it! Please join me in fighting this enemy with faith and prayers.

"Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Be strong and courageous. This is what the Lord will do to all the enemies you are going to fight." Joshua 10: 25

FIGHT ON!

Blessings