So, here we are in our 60's, both of us now Retired, and Cancer hit! But, the prognosis is excellent and "peace, like a river, attendeth our soul/s". (from the song "It is Well with my Soul") . How can that be? Attitude, attitude, attitude! And a deep knowing within my soul that my God is still in charge . So that when such a THING like this comes along, my heart & mind immediately goes to that Truth. John also is facing this new challenge well and that gives me peace of mind. Will see how he copes once treatment starts! I'm so grateful that he had already planned to retire before being faced with this challenge since, he won't have to struggle trying to continue working and being tired or whatever the side effects will be.
I know that Cancer is still feared and people still don't want to talk about it - known as the big "C". But, then when I constantly reminded myself that we weren't exempt, it has helped considerably! I use to say quite regularly that "why not me/you?" when someone would complain that something happened to them which just didn't make sense - especially, since we were Believers on Jesus Christ! That in itself didn't make sense to me! So much so that nothing that happens, unexpectedly, causes my heart to jump, fear to grip me, or start questioning "WHY ME?" Why not me? We live in a fallen world, and I'm still part of the human race - yes, I have been forgiven my sin, cleansed and set free from it's power over me, BUT, I'm still living in this world and God's Word does say that "rain...sun...rises on both the righteous and unrighteous..."(Matthew 5:45) Guess I take this to mean that we aren't exempt from the sufferings of this world or the blessings which are common to all men - evil or good. However, the greatest promise of all to us who are God's Children - part of the Family of God, apart from knowing our future is secured and we do have an Eternal home to look forward to, is that His presence is always with us and His power is in made perfect in our weakness & continually at work in us! That is the best truth to know especially when the big "C" hits close to home!
So...now John is facing Radiation/Chemo over a 3-4 mo. period beginning January 5/12. The cancerous tumour is in the right side of his neck. He was happy to know that he didn't need to shave off his beard! Even though he could loose his hair, he's not going to rush to shave it off! The Nutritionist said he can't afford to lose the 15-20 lbs. that is very likely with the treatment, so they will keep a close watch over him and has given him tips today that I'm sure he'll have no problem with except getting food down when his throat is sore!!
Personally, I will also have to pace myself physically and discipline myself when there are things to be done & he won't necessarily have the strength himself to do all that I have come to depend upon him for. Guess Cancer, or any chronic illness or sudden accidents, etc., is never an individual thing, huh! Family, friends, and faith in a loving God who will "never leave us or forsake us", prayer support, all help to move us through to success!! Because, we both know in our hearts that success is there for us and the strength to bear up when weakened is ours through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen!
Still feeling blessed, Jeanine
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path." Proverbs 3:5-6
 |
| John decorating the Christmas Tree and looking forward to seeing all of our kids & grandkids over the Season. |
No comments:
Post a Comment