I feel so loved by so many people all over the world whether through e-mails, cards, packages or even phone calls. I’ve been hanging all of my cards on my door. This is what I usually do with Christmas cards, but thought it would be a good reminder of all those who are joining me in prayer.

loving today, instead of tomorrow
These days I’m holding to Matthew 6:34 instead of the song “Tomorrow” from the musical Annie. “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” I have never learned and appreciated living in the moment more than I do now. I’m just beginning, but even now I embrace a day that I don’t have to go to the doctor or get a test and when I feel good. It amazes me how much has happened in 15 days since arriving back in Indiana.

On Thursday I had both a PET scan and a follow-up surgery appointment. Both appointments went really well. On Friday I talked with my oncologist and she said the PET scan did show lymphoma cells in my bone marrow, and when she went over the blood work done by my primary care physician on March 8 that they actually tested my blood for lymphoma which came back positive. This information isn’t great news because it means this has spread rather quickly, however my oncologist still reassured me that this is very treatable.

With this info things are moving rather quickly. I will have the surgery to implant the port (close to my collar bone) on Monday afternoon and then begin chemo on Tuesday. My Monday surgery will only take about 25 or 30 minutes, but I have to be there two hours prior and usually have to stay about 2 hours in post-op. Pray for my hunger pains before surgery because I have to fast after midnight on Monday until surgery late that afternoon. Pray that the surgery will go smoothly and I won’t feel sick afterward so I can eat something. Pray for my body as I go through another surgery. I just had my biopsy on March 10 and while that is healing nicely some of my arm muscles are still sore.

Then on Tuesday my first chemo will be from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. This will include blood work, more paperwork and slowly administering the chemo to see how my body will handle it. They said not all of my appointments will be this long. However, I can take food/snacks, movies, my laptop (because they have wireless) and wear comfy clothes to sleep. I have no idea how my body will respond, we’ll see. Pray for all I come in contact with through this process that God’s name will be Great. Pray that my body will respond effectively to the chemo and the results will be positive. Pray for my family as they go through two to three days of unknowns and just the emotional weight of all that has happened so quickly. Pray BIG, however God may lead you in that. We don’t want to underestimate His power.

On Wednesday I will more than likely go back to the oncologist to receive IV fluids so I can stay hydrated. Pray that my body will recover well after chemo and I’ll get the necessary rest, food and water I need. With my immune system possibly being low after this treatment pray against being exposed to infections and germs.

don’t forget Austria
Here are two photos from a missions weekend at my home church here in Louisville, KY. My dad carried the Austrian flag and represented the country for the multiple services that weekend. I was actually flying back from Austria when all of this took place.

I’m reminded that just because my health right now isn’t in a good place for me to head to Vienna, that God hasn’t closed that door. My visa process is still underway and I’m actually only a few documents away from being granted that visa. Go God! Pray that I can get all of that together soon and mailed off. Pray for God’s perfect and impeccable timing.

ending on a funny note
A few days ago I received a notice in the mail saying I could be summoned for jury duty in April, May or June. I busted out with laughter. I think God knew I’d laugh at that request. Obviously my doctor will give me a note to get out of that. Laughter is good for the soul!

Thank you for your prayers and support! I’ll keep you posted as best I can, but it might not be again until Tuesday.

Blessings!

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