I wonder why when you leave the hospital, you're simply turned loose with no idea of what to expect. Yesterday started great, then quickly morphed into a day of nausea and severe heart burn. I hardly ate all day and just sat in a stupor. I'm somewhat better today. I've decided I need to set a routine of eating, walking and resting. Too hot to walk outside, so I'll just make the rounds in here. So far, I've eaten two tiny meals, walked and had a healing nap inbetween. Once I'm through at the computer, I'll start the walking rounds and then down again.
At the hospital, I was dosed daily and almost hourly with pain meds, nausea medicine, heart burn medicine, magnesium when my heart got a little fluttery, pills to make sure the pain meds would not slow down the bowel function and even shots in the belly for blood thinners. From that, I went straight to nothing except for pain meds every four hours and that's it. I guess it's in their rush to kick the patient out as soon as possible no one really sits down and explains what to expect. Maybe they don't know because they only hear from a patient if there's an emergency and they're so focused on getting the job done that is no time or interest in focusing on "after hospital" care.
For those of you "of a certain age", do you remember when someone going for surgery was checked into the hospital the night before and kept in the hospital several days after to be sure all the possible problems had been taken care of before sending the patient home to deal with the aftereffects on their own? I know there is no use talking about what used to be but sometimes the way things are done today isn't necessarily the best way.
Tomorrow is a trip to see the surgeon and I'm glad for that. Not sure what I'm going to wear as my buddha belly eleminates just about everything in my closet. Maybe I'll dress up a pair of these big pjs I bought. What the heck. Ha Ha Ha. I was about to say "I have cancer. I can wear whatever I want." I take that back, but sometimes the "c" card just comes out. So, I'll check in tomorrow after the checkup and let you know officially how I'm doing.
Precious Lord,
We acknowledge You as the Great Physician, the Great Healer. You have told us that Your healing Spirit is within each of us. Give us the faith to recognize that Spirit and the energy to acitvate it and to go forward in this battle for victory over the hated enemy that is taking loved ones from us daily.
Let me, Lord, be an example to others of what to do and what not to do so that they don't have to travel the same path that I am on. It's not a path anyone would take willingly.
I am asking special blessings for those brilliant people dedicating their lives to uncovering the many ways to avoid and to kill this enemy. Help me to help them spread the word to everyone I meet of what can be done to avoid having their lives cut short because of nutritional choices they've made.
Bless each one in this battle Father. Just wrap Your loving and comforting arms around them, assuring them of Your constant love. In the long run, Father, that's all that matters.
In Jesus' name,
Amen
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Monday, June 11, 2012
Day 47 I'm Ba-a-a-ack!!!!!!!
I spent so much time here at the computer recording everything leading up to surgery that it feels a little strange to be back here. First a huge THANK YOU! for all the emails, calls, prayers and well wishes on my behalf. Let me say this. I feel great! My doctor was a medical mechanical master. The surgery was done laproscopically with only two little punctures for guiding the mechanics and a 3" incision for removing what needed to be removed, two hours instead of predicted four hours. Surgery at 1pm on Wednesday and I was home by 1pm on Saturday. Woo Hoo!!
I understand from family and friends that the first hours after surgery were pretty bad but, God, in His infinite wisdom erased that time from my mind. Seeing the pics my ornery family took of me in recovery, I looked more like a cadaver than a live person but that's okay. Between family, friends, and staff at Methodist, I had the most wonderful care. For some reason, God granted me a huge private room with it's own little foyer at the end of the hall with a huge wall of windows and a gorgeous view of the skyline. It couldn't have been nicer.
There was a steady trail of doctors, nurses, visitors and I only had a mini meltdown one day. I was so tired of everything and started to cry. I thought my nurses were going to cry too, Four of them were gathered around consoling me and asking what they could do. After that I had about a two hour healing nap and all was good again. I even "counseled" with one nurse on our walk about what a difference changing her diet would make in the discomforts she was having. Isn't that a hoot?! The nurse confiding in me and then telling me how glad she was that she had a chance to talk with me....Wow!
The big deal during the hospital stay was whether the "splice" in the colon would hold. If it didn't, I would be in big trouble. It was pretty suspenseful every time I went to the bathroom. Would it be liquid, gaseous or solid? When the eagle finally landed about 1am on Saturday, the nurses all clapped and cheered, sent word to the doctor and came back to tell me how happy he was. I felt like a child that had just made its first potty.
Melanie, Darlene, and mostly Tineke were with me almost around the clock. How awesome was that?! The nurses were wonderful but more important was to look over and see someone who already knows and loves me there standing by my side, ready to do anything. Pastors RO and Laurie were there during surgery and RO was back for healing prayer during my stay.
So, I'm home. I feel good. I get up and down fine. The innards are a little sore but pain meds take care of that. I've cleaned the kitchen, swiffered the floor, cooked for myself. I'm careful about not picking up anything too heavy and I won't push a vacuum for a while but that certainly won't hurt my feelings. So, what's next?
Pathology came back before I left on Saturday. One of the ten lymph nodes was positive so that means chemo. It is almost a relief. My precious brother had this surgery back in the 1980's with no followup treatment and a few short years later had died from cancer in his liver and lungs. I want followup treatment. This way, if there are any rogue cells floating around in my system, the chemo and antiangiogenesis diet I'm following should take care of them. So, now I have to decide on an oncologist. Most people immediately think MD Anderson. I've heard both pros and cons about that. My doctors have recommended an oncologist that did visit with me in the hospital. Maybe I'll see him and make an appointment at MD also to compare.
What this means is that my journey is not complete. Victory is already mine and I know that but whatever the eventual outcome, I have learned so much through these last 47 days. My life has changed in a positive way. I am able to rely on God and on the love and friendship of others in a way that I had never been able to before. I am blessed and I am grateful.
Precious Lord,
James said "My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy." I thank You Father for this journey and for the privilege of being used by You to touch others. I never expected to have a true ministry but You've given me one and my life has a direction that it never had before. I ask for that same comfort and satisfaction for everyone else out there fighting this hated enemy. I love You Lord. I love You.
In Jesus' name.
Amen
I understand from family and friends that the first hours after surgery were pretty bad but, God, in His infinite wisdom erased that time from my mind. Seeing the pics my ornery family took of me in recovery, I looked more like a cadaver than a live person but that's okay. Between family, friends, and staff at Methodist, I had the most wonderful care. For some reason, God granted me a huge private room with it's own little foyer at the end of the hall with a huge wall of windows and a gorgeous view of the skyline. It couldn't have been nicer.
There was a steady trail of doctors, nurses, visitors and I only had a mini meltdown one day. I was so tired of everything and started to cry. I thought my nurses were going to cry too, Four of them were gathered around consoling me and asking what they could do. After that I had about a two hour healing nap and all was good again. I even "counseled" with one nurse on our walk about what a difference changing her diet would make in the discomforts she was having. Isn't that a hoot?! The nurse confiding in me and then telling me how glad she was that she had a chance to talk with me....Wow!
The big deal during the hospital stay was whether the "splice" in the colon would hold. If it didn't, I would be in big trouble. It was pretty suspenseful every time I went to the bathroom. Would it be liquid, gaseous or solid? When the eagle finally landed about 1am on Saturday, the nurses all clapped and cheered, sent word to the doctor and came back to tell me how happy he was. I felt like a child that had just made its first potty.
Melanie, Darlene, and mostly Tineke were with me almost around the clock. How awesome was that?! The nurses were wonderful but more important was to look over and see someone who already knows and loves me there standing by my side, ready to do anything. Pastors RO and Laurie were there during surgery and RO was back for healing prayer during my stay.
So, I'm home. I feel good. I get up and down fine. The innards are a little sore but pain meds take care of that. I've cleaned the kitchen, swiffered the floor, cooked for myself. I'm careful about not picking up anything too heavy and I won't push a vacuum for a while but that certainly won't hurt my feelings. So, what's next?
Pathology came back before I left on Saturday. One of the ten lymph nodes was positive so that means chemo. It is almost a relief. My precious brother had this surgery back in the 1980's with no followup treatment and a few short years later had died from cancer in his liver and lungs. I want followup treatment. This way, if there are any rogue cells floating around in my system, the chemo and antiangiogenesis diet I'm following should take care of them. So, now I have to decide on an oncologist. Most people immediately think MD Anderson. I've heard both pros and cons about that. My doctors have recommended an oncologist that did visit with me in the hospital. Maybe I'll see him and make an appointment at MD also to compare.
What this means is that my journey is not complete. Victory is already mine and I know that but whatever the eventual outcome, I have learned so much through these last 47 days. My life has changed in a positive way. I am able to rely on God and on the love and friendship of others in a way that I had never been able to before. I am blessed and I am grateful.
Precious Lord,
James said "My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy." I thank You Father for this journey and for the privilege of being used by You to touch others. I never expected to have a true ministry but You've given me one and my life has a direction that it never had before. I ask for that same comfort and satisfaction for everyone else out there fighting this hated enemy. I love You Lord. I love You.
In Jesus' name.
Amen
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Day 42 Victory Day
This is the day the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it.
Long time coming and there is so much going through my mind. Excitement to have all of this almost all behind me. A little weary from the long wait from diagnosis to surgery, but that was my decision. Wondering if writing this blog was the right thing to do. I have allowed so many feelings to come forward when I might have been better off just pushing them back and ignoring them. Am I forgetting anything that I'll need at the hospital? All that plus I'm so darned hungry I could eat a bear and so thirsty I could drain a swimming pool. It's just after 7am and four more hours until they start an iv so I won't be so dehydrated. All that cleanse I had to drink last night is sodium based and, at this point, I feel like a piece of jerky. Probably look like one too. Oh well.......
Enough of my grumbling. I am giving thanks today for all of my family, my friends, and my church. I am so blessed and covered by His love. I hope you'll indulge me by letting me share some of the words that have been sent to me. You'll understand why it makes my eyes leak.
" ..that God will guide each hand of the doctors and all that is done is complete healing."
"Sending happy thoughts and awaiting the call to action to do whatever needs to be done to help you through."
"Please know we look at your painting every day and it brings us so much joy. I believe that any form of artistry can be a great healer."
"Hope all goes well........it will! You have too many canvases yet to paint."
"Will hold you in my prayers. You give 'em hell, girl! And love your life."
"I'm hoping to return in thoughts and prayers to you the same serenity, peace and comfort your amazing artwork brings to me."
"Stay strong and positive."
"I am so excited you are claiming Victory because that is what Jesus promises to his children. As you go through this temporary desert, I know that the streams of victory in your health will be flowing on the other side."
"Keep up the good fight and know a lot of people are praying for you."
Lauren, Darlene and Jamie have sent out requests on Facebook for intercessory prayers on my behalf. My church is praying. My family is praying. People I don't even know and will probably never know are praying for me. How can I not be victorious over the enemy today?
Melanie will post an update on Facebook later today so, if you want to check, it's www.facebook.com/jo.edwards.94?ref=ts . In the meantime, if you would like to see some of my art, I have it at www.texasgalgallery.com and www.myotherstore.etsy.com .
So, to all of you, my blogger friends, I'll be back in about a week with great news of God's work in my life.
Precious Lord and Savior,
How can I express how happy I feel at this moment, how grateful I am for all the blessings you have given me? I am asking now that You return those blessings to each and every one that has supported and prayed for me through this journey so far. They have been my companions on this trip, holding me up in spirit and prayer and I want to acknowledge how much that has meant to me.
For every person traveling a journey like mine, bless them with the same love and support that You have given me so that their travels down this uncertain path will be easier and more secure.
I love You Father and I know that Your hand, Your angels, Your love and Your care are surrounding me today. Bless this battle that I am fighting and I thank You for victory over this hated enemy.
In Jesus' name.
Amen
Long time coming and there is so much going through my mind. Excitement to have all of this almost all behind me. A little weary from the long wait from diagnosis to surgery, but that was my decision. Wondering if writing this blog was the right thing to do. I have allowed so many feelings to come forward when I might have been better off just pushing them back and ignoring them. Am I forgetting anything that I'll need at the hospital? All that plus I'm so darned hungry I could eat a bear and so thirsty I could drain a swimming pool. It's just after 7am and four more hours until they start an iv so I won't be so dehydrated. All that cleanse I had to drink last night is sodium based and, at this point, I feel like a piece of jerky. Probably look like one too. Oh well.......
Enough of my grumbling. I am giving thanks today for all of my family, my friends, and my church. I am so blessed and covered by His love. I hope you'll indulge me by letting me share some of the words that have been sent to me. You'll understand why it makes my eyes leak.
" ..that God will guide each hand of the doctors and all that is done is complete healing."
"Sending happy thoughts and awaiting the call to action to do whatever needs to be done to help you through."
"Please know we look at your painting every day and it brings us so much joy. I believe that any form of artistry can be a great healer."
"Hope all goes well........it will! You have too many canvases yet to paint."
"Will hold you in my prayers. You give 'em hell, girl! And love your life."
"I'm hoping to return in thoughts and prayers to you the same serenity, peace and comfort your amazing artwork brings to me."
"Stay strong and positive."
"I am so excited you are claiming Victory because that is what Jesus promises to his children. As you go through this temporary desert, I know that the streams of victory in your health will be flowing on the other side."
"Keep up the good fight and know a lot of people are praying for you."
Lauren, Darlene and Jamie have sent out requests on Facebook for intercessory prayers on my behalf. My church is praying. My family is praying. People I don't even know and will probably never know are praying for me. How can I not be victorious over the enemy today?
Melanie will post an update on Facebook later today so, if you want to check, it's www.facebook.com/jo.edwards.94?ref=ts . In the meantime, if you would like to see some of my art, I have it at www.texasgalgallery.com and www.myotherstore.etsy.com .
So, to all of you, my blogger friends, I'll be back in about a week with great news of God's work in my life.
Precious Lord and Savior,
How can I express how happy I feel at this moment, how grateful I am for all the blessings you have given me? I am asking now that You return those blessings to each and every one that has supported and prayed for me through this journey so far. They have been my companions on this trip, holding me up in spirit and prayer and I want to acknowledge how much that has meant to me.
For every person traveling a journey like mine, bless them with the same love and support that You have given me so that their travels down this uncertain path will be easier and more secure.
I love You Father and I know that Your hand, Your angels, Your love and Your care are surrounding me today. Bless this battle that I am fighting and I thank You for victory over this hated enemy.
In Jesus' name.
Amen
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Day 41 Ah, The Indignity of It All!
I went shopping yesterday for my postsurgery needs. Not a happy time for me.
First stop was to buy some giant pajamas. I do not like gowns so this meant I had to buy pj's large enough not to be binding on my stomach. XXL with a draw string should do the job. Okay, so they gather on the floor at my feet. I can hike them up above my waist and there'll still be plenty of room. Oh my gosh. They're huge. Next was nine pair of the ugliest granny panties ever made - also XXL - and I think I will probably still clip the waistband so there will be nothing touching the incision.
Then....... the very worst. I bought a huge package of Depends. Yes, I did my best to hide them in the bottom of the shopping basket just in case I ran into anyone I knew in Walmart which is usually the case. After that, with as much piled on top of the Depands as I could manage, I began to look for the disposable bed pads I had seen advertised on tv for kiddos with bed wetting problems. They sit on top of the sheet and stick to it so they won't move or bunch up during the night. I had three workers looking for them to no avail. The closest thing I could find was Puppy PeePee Training Pads. I did actually pick the package up, check out the size and tried to imagine sleeping on one of those. Not. Guess that was where I had to draw the line. I don't know why I'm so worried. About all I'll get is clear broth with noodles, clear juice, and mashed potatoes for the first couple of weeks. That and some Ensure.
I have to admit, I'm getting nervous about tomorrow. I am confident about the outcome, but still nervous. I think this must be a little like dying. I know where I'm going to end up in the long run, but it's the process I'm not looking forward to. I check in at 11am and surgery is scheduled for 1pm. I've been telling everyone 2pm. Don't know where I got that idea. It is expected to take about 4 hours if it's completed as a laproscopic surgery and longer if it has to be completed as an open surgery.
So, I'm going to stay busy today. Chicken and Dumplings are on the schedule so there'll be something in the fridge for whoever ends up staying with me. I'm going to wash bedding, vacuum and mop, work on some paintings that should have already been finished, pay bills, plan what I'm going to take with me to the hospital, and then start drinking that stuff (shudder). Tineke's husband, Dionel, is picking up Chipper this evening to take to their house while I'm in the hospital. I'll probably be a little weepy about that but Chipper will be happy. He adores Dionel.
So, that' my day. Just me and the Lord, working our way through, me talking, Him listening and comforting. This prayer was included with some healing scriptures that Pastor RO gave me on Sunday. It's from 1 Corinthians 6:19,20. I share it with everyone reading this to pray it as well for themselves.
Precious Father,
I was bought with a price and I will glorify the Lord with my body for my body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. I am not my own. I will talk of Your wonderous works. I will give You thanks for You are Good. I will declare Your greatness and bless Your name forever and ever.
In Jesus' name,
Amen
First stop was to buy some giant pajamas. I do not like gowns so this meant I had to buy pj's large enough not to be binding on my stomach. XXL with a draw string should do the job. Okay, so they gather on the floor at my feet. I can hike them up above my waist and there'll still be plenty of room. Oh my gosh. They're huge. Next was nine pair of the ugliest granny panties ever made - also XXL - and I think I will probably still clip the waistband so there will be nothing touching the incision.
Then....... the very worst. I bought a huge package of Depends. Yes, I did my best to hide them in the bottom of the shopping basket just in case I ran into anyone I knew in Walmart which is usually the case. After that, with as much piled on top of the Depands as I could manage, I began to look for the disposable bed pads I had seen advertised on tv for kiddos with bed wetting problems. They sit on top of the sheet and stick to it so they won't move or bunch up during the night. I had three workers looking for them to no avail. The closest thing I could find was Puppy PeePee Training Pads. I did actually pick the package up, check out the size and tried to imagine sleeping on one of those. Not. Guess that was where I had to draw the line. I don't know why I'm so worried. About all I'll get is clear broth with noodles, clear juice, and mashed potatoes for the first couple of weeks. That and some Ensure.
I have to admit, I'm getting nervous about tomorrow. I am confident about the outcome, but still nervous. I think this must be a little like dying. I know where I'm going to end up in the long run, but it's the process I'm not looking forward to. I check in at 11am and surgery is scheduled for 1pm. I've been telling everyone 2pm. Don't know where I got that idea. It is expected to take about 4 hours if it's completed as a laproscopic surgery and longer if it has to be completed as an open surgery.
So, I'm going to stay busy today. Chicken and Dumplings are on the schedule so there'll be something in the fridge for whoever ends up staying with me. I'm going to wash bedding, vacuum and mop, work on some paintings that should have already been finished, pay bills, plan what I'm going to take with me to the hospital, and then start drinking that stuff (shudder). Tineke's husband, Dionel, is picking up Chipper this evening to take to their house while I'm in the hospital. I'll probably be a little weepy about that but Chipper will be happy. He adores Dionel.
So, that' my day. Just me and the Lord, working our way through, me talking, Him listening and comforting. This prayer was included with some healing scriptures that Pastor RO gave me on Sunday. It's from 1 Corinthians 6:19,20. I share it with everyone reading this to pray it as well for themselves.
Precious Father,
I was bought with a price and I will glorify the Lord with my body for my body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. I am not my own. I will talk of Your wonderous works. I will give You thanks for You are Good. I will declare Your greatness and bless Your name forever and ever.
In Jesus' name,
Amen
Monday, June 4, 2012
Day 40 Two Days to Victory
Yesterday in the service at Texas Cowboy Church, Pastor RO referred to my surgery as my victory and that's what I'm going to call it from now on.
I hope everyone had a weekend as wonderful as mine. First of all, Mel's Wedding Party was held Saturday evening. We decided a while back that making a three tier wedding cake would be a little too much stress for me so a friend would bake the cake. So.... what do I do?
Yes, that's six dozen cuppies plus a batch of Lemon Coconut Bars. I made Rocky Road, Funfetti and Strawberry with Chocolate Ganache cuppies and, if I do say so myself, they were yummy. No keeping a good baker down.
The party was awesome. Lots of hugs and well wishing for the success on my victory. Family, friends, food, music. Too much fun. Then Sunday was church. I am here to say this. If anyone does not have a church family, find one! I know, I know..........one can be spiritual without going to church. I'm not sure what being spiritual really means but I do know being spiritual is not necessarily knowing God and not necessarily knowing how to love Jesus the way He should be loved. I believe that can only be done by studying the Bible, both Old and New Testaments, and learning from elders who have studied longer and know more. If one doesn't know Him, how can His hand be seen in everything that happens every day? Life is such a gift and such a miracle and it's all from Him.
The Bible says when we are ill, to go to the church elders and have them anoint us with oil and that's what I did yesterday. My church family gathered to lay hands on me and pray for me and it was such an uplifting and blessed experience. I wish that type of church for everyone that might happen across this blog. Then, when I was leaving, one of the church members stopped to tell me that colon cancer runs in her family and that her mother lived 35 years after surgery and that her grandmother had the surgery when she was in her 90's and did well after. Thank you, Mrs. McDonald.
In yesterday's message, Pastor RO read from the 20th chapter of the Gospel of Matthew. It tells of the two blind men who approached Jesus and asked for mercy. Jesus knew they were blind but still He asked them specifically what they wanted before He restored their sight. The lesson, obviously, is to be specific in our prayers. Today, I am going to pray a specific prayer for myself.
Heavenly Father,
I am so grateful to have You in my life. I thank You for my family and my friends and I thank You for your mercy and forgiveness. Lord, I am following the example You set when the blind men asked for healing and I am asking specifically that on Wednesday the victory be quick, that the cancer will not have penetrated the walls of the colon, that my lymph nodes are clean and that You make me an example of Your healing. Let me be of service to You, Lord, through this experience. I love You so much. I honor You in all I do.
I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ.
Amen
I hope everyone had a weekend as wonderful as mine. First of all, Mel's Wedding Party was held Saturday evening. We decided a while back that making a three tier wedding cake would be a little too much stress for me so a friend would bake the cake. So.... what do I do?
Yes, that's six dozen cuppies plus a batch of Lemon Coconut Bars. I made Rocky Road, Funfetti and Strawberry with Chocolate Ganache cuppies and, if I do say so myself, they were yummy. No keeping a good baker down.
The party was awesome. Lots of hugs and well wishing for the success on my victory. Family, friends, food, music. Too much fun. Then Sunday was church. I am here to say this. If anyone does not have a church family, find one! I know, I know..........one can be spiritual without going to church. I'm not sure what being spiritual really means but I do know being spiritual is not necessarily knowing God and not necessarily knowing how to love Jesus the way He should be loved. I believe that can only be done by studying the Bible, both Old and New Testaments, and learning from elders who have studied longer and know more. If one doesn't know Him, how can His hand be seen in everything that happens every day? Life is such a gift and such a miracle and it's all from Him.
The Bible says when we are ill, to go to the church elders and have them anoint us with oil and that's what I did yesterday. My church family gathered to lay hands on me and pray for me and it was such an uplifting and blessed experience. I wish that type of church for everyone that might happen across this blog. Then, when I was leaving, one of the church members stopped to tell me that colon cancer runs in her family and that her mother lived 35 years after surgery and that her grandmother had the surgery when she was in her 90's and did well after. Thank you, Mrs. McDonald.
In yesterday's message, Pastor RO read from the 20th chapter of the Gospel of Matthew. It tells of the two blind men who approached Jesus and asked for mercy. Jesus knew they were blind but still He asked them specifically what they wanted before He restored their sight. The lesson, obviously, is to be specific in our prayers. Today, I am going to pray a specific prayer for myself.
Heavenly Father,
I am so grateful to have You in my life. I thank You for my family and my friends and I thank You for your mercy and forgiveness. Lord, I am following the example You set when the blind men asked for healing and I am asking specifically that on Wednesday the victory be quick, that the cancer will not have penetrated the walls of the colon, that my lymph nodes are clean and that You make me an example of Your healing. Let me be of service to You, Lord, through this experience. I love You so much. I honor You in all I do.
I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ.
Amen
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Day 38 Ignorance Is Bliss?
I'm not sure that's the correct saying but it's the way I always heard it growing up and what it means to me is that sometimes it's just better not to know too much. Yesterday I mentioned Dr. William Li and his study of angiogenesis which is basically the theory that there are rogue (my word for them) blood vessels that feed cancer cells allowing them to thrive and grow. As I read more about this theory, I remembered that after I finally heard back from the surgeon on the cat scan, he said there was a spot on my liver that turned out to be a cluster of blood vessels. If I had an organ I would play that scary music that preceeds someone losing their head in a slasher movie. Yikes.
So, now I have something else to wonder about. My brother died after colon cancer spread to his liver and lungs. Well crap! So, are those vessels on my liver feeding a cancer cell that isn't large enough yet to be detected on a pet or cat scan? Am I going to panic now every time I feel a twinge in my body? Feel like I need to run to a doctor for test after test just to be there isn't a new cancer somewhere else? That's not how I want to live my life.
Okay, back to Psalm 91. No Fear! God and I have this. He's in my corner, on my side, and His mercy is every where evident. I am a strong, fierce, cancer fighting child of the Most High and I am so grateful. God is good.........all the time.
Back to Dr. Li. I found an interactive website that he sponsors at www.eattodefeat.org . Lots more information there about what foods his studies reveal are the strongest cancer fighters or rather the strongest killers of those rogue blood vessels. I'll quote him again. "What we eat is chemo therapy everyday." Another quick trip to Whole Foods yesterday and my fridge is stocked. I'm not sure what for. I only have today and tomorrow to eat normally, then Monday is liquid diet and Tuesday is cleanse (yikes!!!!) before surgery on Wednesday. Oh well, Darlene will be here today and tomorrow and she can help me with it. This afternoon I'm going to make a swiss chard/sweet potato saute. Saute onion, red or orange pepper and some sliced mushrooms in a tiny bit of olive oil. Then clean and slice the chard and add with a little water, salt and pepper. I often add a few chicken boullion granules instead of the salt. Wash and peel a sweet potato and cut up into little cubes. Add to greens with a tiny bit of water, cover and simmer until the greens and sweet potato are tender. Then I add a small splash of balsamic vinegar and a tiny squeeze of honey. Yumm.
I just found out that I had 33 messages on Facebook extending back over a month for goodness sake. So now I know what that little icon at the top with the number 33 was. One of the messages was from a friend that I haven't seen in quite a few years. Shortly before I gave Melanie a kidney, she gave her husband a kidney. She heard of my diagnosis and wanted to let me know that since the transplant her husband had colon cancer, several rounds of chemo and was doing fine. It's just everywhere and so pervasive.
Father God,
Today I am asking special blessings on Pete and his wife, Barbie. He has been through so much needing a kidney transplant and then having to deal with colon cancer. I know the Bible says that You are no respector of persons and love us all equally. I see now that the enemy is no respector of persons either. He can attack anyone at any time. Father, I am asking that Pete's healing is so profound that cancer will never invade his body again. Bless Barbie for being the spouse that You intended, giving everything she could to get her husband back to good health.
In Jesus' precious name,
Amen
So, now I have something else to wonder about. My brother died after colon cancer spread to his liver and lungs. Well crap! So, are those vessels on my liver feeding a cancer cell that isn't large enough yet to be detected on a pet or cat scan? Am I going to panic now every time I feel a twinge in my body? Feel like I need to run to a doctor for test after test just to be there isn't a new cancer somewhere else? That's not how I want to live my life.
Okay, back to Psalm 91. No Fear! God and I have this. He's in my corner, on my side, and His mercy is every where evident. I am a strong, fierce, cancer fighting child of the Most High and I am so grateful. God is good.........all the time.
Back to Dr. Li. I found an interactive website that he sponsors at www.eattodefeat.org . Lots more information there about what foods his studies reveal are the strongest cancer fighters or rather the strongest killers of those rogue blood vessels. I'll quote him again. "What we eat is chemo therapy everyday." Another quick trip to Whole Foods yesterday and my fridge is stocked. I'm not sure what for. I only have today and tomorrow to eat normally, then Monday is liquid diet and Tuesday is cleanse (yikes!!!!) before surgery on Wednesday. Oh well, Darlene will be here today and tomorrow and she can help me with it. This afternoon I'm going to make a swiss chard/sweet potato saute. Saute onion, red or orange pepper and some sliced mushrooms in a tiny bit of olive oil. Then clean and slice the chard and add with a little water, salt and pepper. I often add a few chicken boullion granules instead of the salt. Wash and peel a sweet potato and cut up into little cubes. Add to greens with a tiny bit of water, cover and simmer until the greens and sweet potato are tender. Then I add a small splash of balsamic vinegar and a tiny squeeze of honey. Yumm.
I just found out that I had 33 messages on Facebook extending back over a month for goodness sake. So now I know what that little icon at the top with the number 33 was. One of the messages was from a friend that I haven't seen in quite a few years. Shortly before I gave Melanie a kidney, she gave her husband a kidney. She heard of my diagnosis and wanted to let me know that since the transplant her husband had colon cancer, several rounds of chemo and was doing fine. It's just everywhere and so pervasive.
Father God,
Today I am asking special blessings on Pete and his wife, Barbie. He has been through so much needing a kidney transplant and then having to deal with colon cancer. I know the Bible says that You are no respector of persons and love us all equally. I see now that the enemy is no respector of persons either. He can attack anyone at any time. Father, I am asking that Pete's healing is so profound that cancer will never invade his body again. Bless Barbie for being the spouse that You intended, giving everything she could to get her husband back to good health.
In Jesus' precious name,
Amen
Friday, June 1, 2012
Day 37 I FEEL GOOD!
James Brown has nothing on me. Since it's just me and Chipper here, I may have to dance a little jig because I feel great this morning. After three days pretty much spent on the couch, this is awesome. What caused the change? Two possibilities. Yesterday morning was my last dose of a med to control bladder spasms from the infection so maybe it is out of my system. The other possibility could be two complete days of my multi-multivitamin pills. Actually it's 16 capsules a day and I've found every excuse in the world not to take them. I have to work it into my eating routine to get them down and I think I have it figured out.
By the way, here's the look I get from Chipper when I dance through the house.
Obviously that eye roll indicates he's not too impressed. Oh well, neither would anyone else be impressed but, you know what, I don't care. Couldn't you just kiss that precious face? I may have to stop writing a minute to get a Chipper hug.
I have spent over an hour on the computer this morning researching Dr. William Li. He recently appeared on Dr. Oz's show speaking on angiogenesis and the foods we can incorporate into our diet to starve the blood vessels that feed cancer. That was encouraging because it sort of reinforces the diet that I have been following since diagnosis. To see one of his talks on angiogenesis, click here http://www.ted.com/talks/william_li.html. I found another of his talks on YouTube that was a later one with additional information. He said, "What we eat is chemotherapy every day." Dr. Oz has a printable grocery list on his website of the foods that Dr. Li believes we should include in our diet. One being red wine. Yay for that, Dr Li.
I'm way behind on everything I need to do. Should have done more baking yesterday. Should have worked on the painting for Positive Images Gallery. I did nothing. So, today is makeup time. My best friend, Darlene, will be here tomorrow for the Wedding Party and will spend the night. She has made this journey with me and will help me after surgery. I'm excited to see her. We live on opposite sides of Houston so that limits how often we can get together. We've been friends since we were beautiful young 20somethings and through lots of ups and downs in our lives. She probably knows me better than anyone else.......and loves me anyway. That's a true friend.
So, now it's time for my smoothie and first dose of vitamins. Then time to get to work.
Precious Father God,
Today I am asking special blessings for Melanie's childhood friend, Renee. She just finished round #4 of chemo and is about to start 12 more weeks of treatment. Lord, I thank you for giving those meds supernatural powers to perfectly target the enemy that Renee is fighting, to starve that enemy and obliterate it so completely that it can never return to her body. We know that You are her constant companion, her comfort and that her healing is in Your hands. Thank You Father for everything You do for her and for me and for everyone fighting this most dreaded enemy.
In Jesus' precious name,
Amen
By the way, here's the look I get from Chipper when I dance through the house.
I have spent over an hour on the computer this morning researching Dr. William Li. He recently appeared on Dr. Oz's show speaking on angiogenesis and the foods we can incorporate into our diet to starve the blood vessels that feed cancer. That was encouraging because it sort of reinforces the diet that I have been following since diagnosis. To see one of his talks on angiogenesis, click here http://www.ted.com/talks/william_li.html. I found another of his talks on YouTube that was a later one with additional information. He said, "What we eat is chemotherapy every day." Dr. Oz has a printable grocery list on his website of the foods that Dr. Li believes we should include in our diet. One being red wine. Yay for that, Dr Li.
I'm way behind on everything I need to do. Should have done more baking yesterday. Should have worked on the painting for Positive Images Gallery. I did nothing. So, today is makeup time. My best friend, Darlene, will be here tomorrow for the Wedding Party and will spend the night. She has made this journey with me and will help me after surgery. I'm excited to see her. We live on opposite sides of Houston so that limits how often we can get together. We've been friends since we were beautiful young 20somethings and through lots of ups and downs in our lives. She probably knows me better than anyone else.......and loves me anyway. That's a true friend.
So, now it's time for my smoothie and first dose of vitamins. Then time to get to work.
Precious Father God,
Today I am asking special blessings for Melanie's childhood friend, Renee. She just finished round #4 of chemo and is about to start 12 more weeks of treatment. Lord, I thank you for giving those meds supernatural powers to perfectly target the enemy that Renee is fighting, to starve that enemy and obliterate it so completely that it can never return to her body. We know that You are her constant companion, her comfort and that her healing is in Your hands. Thank You Father for everything You do for her and for me and for everyone fighting this most dreaded enemy.
In Jesus' precious name,
Amen
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