July; My Journey Begins….
My dear friends and readers, I am at the beginning of a Journey that I am wanting to share with you!
I’ve always told you I am keeping it real…and folks it don’t get any “real-er” than this.
This may be more information than you care to know…skip over what you will. 🙂 as this is going to be lengthy!
About a month ago, (in June) I started having a pain in my belly. Nothing severe like appendicitis or side ache, but a dull pain that just did not feel quite right….plus, it did not go away….but it did skip around. It was underneath my breastbone most of the time, but sometimes slipped around to my lower back.
Of course I went to my GP Doctor and she told me I was so healthy in all my previous blood tests, etc and she wished all her patients looked and felt as good as I did.
However, when I mentioned the pain in my belly…she poked around a bit, shrugged her shoulders and said it was most likely a UTI. She asked the usual questions about urination and I told her I “always” had to go……all I needed to see was running water and I was off to the bathroom as fast as a racehorse left the gate. LOL
She gave me an antibiotic prescription, said the urinalysis was not conclusive, so she would send it off to a lab, but perhaps I should also go to a lab (Quest) for outside testing. And so I went to Quest the next day.
I received a call from the Doctor’s office a few days later saying the urinalysis came back negative, so I should quit taking the antibiotic.
I told the nurse on the phone that I was still having pain in my stomach. She said I should make another appointment and I said “No, I was just in the office 4 days ago and NOTHING had changed….couldn’t the doctor just order some tests like more blood work, a Cat Scan …etc. because I was concerned about cancer, particularly Pancreatic.” The nurse said she would discuss it with the doctor.
About 4 days later (week-end in between)…another nurse calls me and says If I am still having pain, I should call the appointment desk and make another appointment, that the doctor will not order any testing without seeing me again.
So I said…I am not going to make another office visit when I have already discussed all of this and been prodded and poked by the doctor.
I also reminded her I was concerned about pancreatic cancer, that I had two friends die with that disease and they started with stomach pain and within 4 months, (last year) they both passed away.
Granted, they both had “stage 4 pancreatic cancer, which is almost always a quick death sentence”!
I asked for a Cat scan, anything. I also said, “if you won’t prescribe further testing, I would change doctors.”
A day later, as I was literally checking out new doctors on-line, a nurse called and said she really wanted me to come back to the office and there was an opening in late August.
I said “No. thank you, I want something done much sooner”.
Now, to give you a reference in time, this was the end of the work day on the 3rd of July and the Captain and I had planned on going to a local hotel on the water to watch the 4th fireworks from our hotel room.
Then something strange happened.
I got bit by an insect, most likely a spider. I had packed an overnight bag and was walking through the garage when I walked into a spider web and brushed it away with my hand. (I assume that is when I got bit on my left hand forefinger.)
There had not been a spider web there before… as I walk through the garage all the time.
By the time we got to the hotel room about 3 p.m. on the 4th of July, my finger had started swelling and itched like crazy.
The Captain said when we leave here tomorrow morning (about 9 a.m.) if your finger hasn’t gotten any better, we are going to stop at Urgent Care.
I said…good idea and I will mention my stomach pain to them too.
I KNOW this insect bite was God’s way of providing me an answer to my health questions/issues.
We walked into the urgent care room and the PA…yes, I said a PA, A Physician’s Assistant, glanced at my finger, said we would use an antibiotic… but he seemed more concerned about the pain I was describing in my belly.
He said “let’s do a Cat Scan. I will order the Cat Scan and you can go next door and have it done and we will know what we are dealing with.”
Let me tell you, I was thrilled that someone was actually listening to me.
Also, the PA personally called over to get me an appointment and he had some pull because they would squeeze me in at 3 pm giving me time to: 1. Not eat and 2. Drink that nasty contrast stuff.
The PA said we should come back to the Urgent Care when we were done with the Cat Scan and he could tell us results right away. Yay!
Remember, this is the Friday, the 5th of July.
After the Cat Scan, I went back to the Urgent Care (The Captain was a little slower than me as he was parking thee car) and they ushered me right in and asked “Where is your husband?”
I knew the news was not good by that question.
Of course my husband came in shortly there after.
The PA said there was a two centimeter “mass” of something growing on my pancreas.
Talk about a punch in the gut.
He said not to jump to conclusions….it could be anything, but he wanted to order an MRI as it could not be ignored.
While we were still in his office, he called around to find an opening for me and the soonest we could get in was Monday, at 8:30a.m. the 8th of July, over in Fort Myers.
Early Monday morning, the Captain took me for the MRI.
As the tech was putting a needle in my arm, I flinched a bit and said that was the same arm they used on Friday. He commented that he couldn’t believe I got in for the MRI so fast.
He just didn’t know that God’s divine orchestration of all my healthcare professionals was just beginning.
Again, the results came back to the PA later that day (so soon? unheard of I have been told) and the conclusion was “most likely Pancreatic Cancer, but not conclusive” and the PA said next step is to get an Oncologist…that now we were out of his league. But God bless James Perry, PA at urgent care!
The Captain got on-line and started making phone calls…Meanwhile our church family was not only praying for us, two of our good friends recommended Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa. So we had two recommendations and we are glad we took their advice.
After a phone consultation with our new oncologist in Tampa, she was thankful for the CAT Scan and the MRI Scan, but she also wanted a PET Scan. (I was beginning to wonder if I should bring my dog since all these scans seemed animal oriented. LOL)
The Captain was right on it and with the help of the Cancer doctor and PA again…I had a PET Scan on Friday the 12th of July….Plus an appointment with the Oncologist at Moffitt on the 15th of July.
Just to recap here….My journey began around the first of July.
Friday, July 5th First CAT SCAN by PA in Cape Coral.
Sunday, July 7th Church Family recommends Moffitt Cancer Center
Monday, July 8th MRI SCAN by PA in Cape Coral
Tuesday July 9th The Captain contacts Moffitt and engages Oncologist
Wednesday July 10th Oncologist receives, reviews text results of CAT and MRI Scans.
Thursday July 11th Oncologist at Moffitt orders PET Scan in Cape Coral
Friday July 12th PET SCAN in Ft Myers (Only immediate appointment)
Monday July 15th Oncologist appointment at Moffitt in Tampa,… Pancreatic Cancer confirmed/more bloodwork/new Cat Scan
Tuesday July 16th Endoscopy/Sonigram/Biopsy under anesthesia at Moffitt…Dr. reports 2 centimeter malignant growth laying on important blood vessel.
Thursday July 18th Special Oncologist(s) consultations with other Moffitt Cancer Doctors
Monday July 22nd Radiation Oncologist appointment at Moffitt
Monday July 22nd Chemo Oncologist appointment at Moffitt
Wednesday July 24th our new Oncologist in Cape Coral (referral from Chemo doctor in Tampa) to discuss the Port implant (to make it easier than driving two hours to Tampa)
Friday July 26th the surgery for the port implant at HealthPark Hospital
Monday July 29th Started Chemo treatment with 4 hour Chemo drip at Florida Cancer Specialists and sent home with Chemo drip to last 46 hours ( I go back on July 31 to remove the needle & drip)
Wednesday July 31 More blood work and removal of drip
The Chemo journey will be for 3 months, after the first two months…on Sept 12th, we Trek back to Moffitt in Tampa for more bloodwork, another Cat Scan and the continuation of Chemo Treatments.
At the end of 3 months Chemo treatment, the Radiation Doctor in Tampa will do 5 straight days of radiation with a new special machine. (Only 9 in the whole country)
Then our Oncologist in Tampa will do surgery called the “Whipple Procedure” which is an 8-10 hour operation to remove cancer, part of stomach, part of pancreas, part of small intestine, part of bile duct and gall bladder.
Probable stay in Hospital, 14 days.
The reason the surgery will be the last on the agenda is the Doctor is hoping the cancer will shrink enough with the Chemo and Radiation to loosen it from the blood vessel so it is easier to remove.
In case you are interested, the pancreas lies behind the stomach in a hub of veins and arteries and It is about 6 inches long.
My cancer is a little over 3/4 of an inch long…about the size of a peanut and it is estimated to be between stage one and two.
Meanwhile my wonderful church family has been praying constantly.
And I have faith that God”s Will Be Done.
I have a peace that passes all understanding.
I KNOW God used the Captain to carry out all the appointments in a record amount of time.
But wait there is more.
The only appointment we could get to see an Oncologist in Cape Coral was at 2 pm on July 24th.
I received a phone call asking me to come in at 1:45 that the original scheduled doctor could not see me, but there was a cancellation for another doctor.
I didn’t care who I saw because I knew they would be consulting with my Moffitt Oncologist, Chemo doctor and my radiation doctor.
When the oncologist entered the room, I felt I liked her immediately and when she opened my file…she said “I went to medical school with your Chemo doctor. We are good friends, be sure and tell him I said Hi..”
(Now we could have had the port put in at Tampa on Friday (no later, said the Chemo Doctor in Tampa) but by contacting an oncologist in the Cape, it would save us a two hour drive up and a two hour drive back.)
My new additional Cape Oncologist was able to schedule the port implant surgery on Friday with Chemo treatments starting on Monday July 29th….AND she informed me that I would not have to go over to Fort Myers (which is where I saw her)…. that she visited the Cancer specialist two blocks from my house every Monday and Friday.
Wow!
I don’t know if you know what a port is but I will explain.
If you don’t want details, skip this part.
It is about the diameter of a quarter and the depth is 3/4 of an inch.
This disk is attached to a “tail” that resembles my IPhone charger cord…and it is about 8 inches long.
During the surgery, the doctor (yet another doctor) makes an incision below the clavicle to insert the cord and then he makes another incision 6 inches below that to insert the disk just under the skin.
This Power Port is used to draw blood and insert the needle for the chemo drip. (No poking of needles in arms or legs)
Another Wow?
I was told I would need a numbing cream for the port when inserting the needle and I would need two nausea pills an hour ahead of the Monday chemo treatment.
The numbing cream would come from my pharmacist and the nausea pills would be delivered by Fed Ex and these would be available to me on Thursday, July 25th.
But they were not there.
I called my pharmacist and they said there were NO orders for any medication…and Fed Ex said they delivered the pills on Friday, the 26th…but they were not there.
So after my port implant Friday morning, I lay down to take a nap and I prayed.
I said I was not worried…that God was in control and I was sure everything would fall into place.
At 6 pm Walgreen’s called and said they had a prescription ready!
I smiled.
Then on Saturday, July 27th, Fed Ex arrived.
And I praised God.
My friends, I am praying for and I am willing to accept God’s will and I will give Him the Glory.
This reminds me of the footprints in the sand… where you see two sets of footprints and then you see only one set of footprints.
Folks, this is where Jesus is carrying me.
Below are a few Bible verses that I am saying daily.
Philippians 4:6,7
” Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the Peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
John 13:7
Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand”
Ephesians 3: 20,21
Now to Him who is able to do immeasurable more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be the Glory.”
Matthew 6:26
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”
1 Corinthians 10:13
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it”
1 Thessalonians 5:18
“Give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
Deuteronomy 31:6
Be Strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”
I will continue to post, maybe not as often as before this journey began, but I will definitely keep you informed.
I know there are a few in our blogging world who just recently became aware of what is going on and they are being so supportive and saying prayers which is much appreciated.
Until we meet again…
And the Journey has begun!
Blessings Always
Kari,
Oh my ! I just read your medical story , in so many ways I’ll never understand Drs ? We know our own bodies. I’m so glad One took the initiative and started tests. Please know I’m praying for you on your health and for the Lords will . Your testimony is over the top lady.. I’m a believer and your story is so encouraging, so far I’m in fairly good health , that I know of.
One of our AA engineers that also went to Tulda I’m sure you’ll remember Abe Zimmerman hes also going through some medical issues please keep him in your prayers as well. I’ll be in continue prayers for you Kari.. In Christ’s name Carol Piper
I’m so sorry that anyone has to live in the Cancer World , Our family walked through this world for 4years .With my Handsome Smart 28 yr old son , Faith Family and your community will carry you .My daily Prayers will follow you !
Wow, Kari!!! I finally had time to read this, I can say for sure is that you had God on your side. I will be here if you need anything. Love and hugs, Brenda
Kari,
I am so sorry to hear this..Please know that I am praying for you and your family..
Hugs,
Debbie
I hope you can feel the gigantic hug I’m sending you right now. In the face of what you’re experiencing you are the most positive person I know. Isn’t God’s timing amazing!! I pray that your healing will be swift and thorough. Blessings to you and your family.
I do feel your hug and prayers my friend. bless you
Thank you for sharing at #ThursdayFavoriteThings. Pinned and shared.
My prayers are with you Kari. My husband has cancer so I am on the journey with you. Being your own advocate is key to get the care you need and get it right away. My husbands cancer will not kill him. It will be the secondary cancers that come on that will. It has been 15 years now and God has been on his side. He was 100% healthy when diagnosed and was one of the youngest at the time. We continue to deal with big Pharma to get him his chemo. The last three times has been different and this has made him sick. Beware of any DR telling you there is a shortage. Changing all the time makes your body go through the adapting period. Thanking God for the captain. He is your guardian angel. Stay positive, eat right, and do what your Drs ask. Seems like you have found some of the best. Take care. Hugz
Thank you so much Marilyn..I always am encouraged by the brave ones who have paved the way. God Bless your husband and you ….as it takes a special person to be a caregiver. I pray this last chemo for him is not different…adapting is difficult. You both are in my prayers my friend. hugs
So glad for your persistence and that incredible P.A. you noted! I know this will not be an easy journey, but it is so evident in what you share here that God has been going before you and lighting the path ahead one step at a time. You will be in my prayers for His healing, protection, peace and assurance for the journey.
Thank you pam…His strength IS sufficient for me…the verse in 2 Cor 12:8-10 does not say “will be” or “could be”…I claim His victory …and I so appreciate your prayers .blessings alwayys
And God sent a spider!!! He works in miraculous ways! Prayers for your complete healing!
yes Susan, a little spider,….Isn’t He wonderful??? Bless you my friend.
Wow Kari, I am so sorry you are having to go through this. I left a comment yesterday, however I do not see it. My heart goes out to you. When in the world will some doctors step up and order more tests. We know our own bodies. Thank goodness your trip to Urgent care actually got results, not good ones, but to get you the treatment you need. I know all about cancer as a Survivor 4 times. It is not fun, but so needed. Prayers and healing thoughts for you and your family. Caregivers need support too. With love and hugs.❤️
thank you so much Linda…I do appreciate your prayers and your inspiration.
Kari, I am so sorry you are going through this. I do know all about cancer surgery, treatments, etc, as I have endured 4 cancers. I am so relieve you had a cat scan and pet scan to find this. Why in the world do some doctors not order test. We have to be our own advocates and push. We know our own bodies. Pet scans are the best for finding cancer. I am so glad you are sharing your journey. I have always shared mine.Prayers and healing thoughts as you go through this. May your captain be cared for as well. Lots of love and big hugs
Linda I do indeed know of your journey(s)…and thank you for your inspiration. I was so upset with my GP because she just would not budge as in ordering cat scans, etc. I do intend to have a talk with her but after things settle into a routine. thank you sweet friend for your prayers.
Kari, My heart hurts that you are going through this. I assure you I will be praying hard for you, your family and your doctors. It does sound like God has been holding you up and guiding those helping you to quickly get things going to help you. I thank God for those that helped you.
Sending hugs and many prayers. Your friend, Bonnie
I so appreciate you Bonnie…everyone has been so thoughtful and offering up prayers which I know is working. I praise the PA who had the courage to proceed and I thank God for the spider that bit me and sent me to Urgent Care. Thank you sweet friend for your support. hugs
Kari, you will be in my thoughts and prayers sweet friend! I’m so sorry for all of this as I know it has been an exhausting, overwhelming journey so far! BUT, thankful that all of the pieces fell into place so quickly so that the doctors could jump right on top of things for you! Please keep me posted as you know I will not be blogging as much either! Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you…EVER! Love and hugs sweet friend!
I am praying for you and your family too my dear friend. I am here for you…we shall share our journey’s together.
Matt 18:20 For Where two or three gather in My Name, there am I with them. hugs always
Kari, I have been away from blogging for a few months, and I just read about your journey. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers, sweet friend. I agree with Rita, may God bless that PA at the Urgent Care. I am sending lots of hugs and positive thoughts your way!
thank you so much Shannon…I hope all is well with you my friend. Chemo can really zap your strength, but God is leading me through this. hugs
I’m so very sorry to hear you are going through this. It does sound like you’re in good hands – both medical & your support group. Please take care and let us know how you are progressing. You’re in our thoughts & prayers.
thanks Margo….I am very blessed indeed. God is amazing as He leads me down this path.
Prayers dear Kari, and the Lord does work in mysterious ways…I have no doubt your are getting strength and comfort from your community of family and friends, and I’m so glad the Captain is right there to take care of you! Keep us posted as you can, I will hold you in my heart…
Jenna
thanks Jenna I am trusting the will of God…and the team of doctors have been amazing. I will keep all of you abreast of what is happening as long as I can. thanks for your prayers hugs always
Between the Captain, your faith, your doctors, and friends, I know you can beat this Kari! XOXOXO
Meeeeee toooooooo!!!
Oh my, oh my, oh my…so sorry to hear this about someone I consider a good friend…although we have never met. Thank you for not just “disappearing”…and thank you for allowing us to pray for you on your journey. It sounds as though God has you in the palm of His hand, as the song says…
Thank you Toni…God is indeed leading me through this journey. thank you for being my cyber friend and for your prayers.
Kari, I’m so sorry to hear that you are going through this. While the Lord definitely had a hand in bringing that kind PA into your life, it was also your unwillingness to ignore your symptoms that led you to an early diagnosis. I truly admire your faith, perseverance and courage. You have the support of many people who love you from near and far! I will be keeping you and the Captain in my prayers.
Sending big hugs,
Rebecca
You are so right Rebecca…one should never ignore any symptoms…if I can help just one person to not take no for an answer…I will feel I have accomplished something. For credit where credit is due…God sending the spider to bite me…pushed me in the right direction….and then the PA and all the other appointments…were from above. Jesus is my savior. John 3:16
Thank you for sharing your news, I have been so concerned about you. Now, Tampa isn’t that far away, if you would like me to come and sit with you during any treatments, or when you have your surgery, I will be there. I could help give the Captain a break. You know I have been praying for you every day since the 18th and you will continue to be in my prayers. God bless you both as you traverse this journey.
thank you my sweet friend…I am so fortunate to have such wonderful friendships. I appreciate your kind offers of assistance and all your support through this new phase of my life. Jesus is holding my hand and I am trusting in Him completely…He is the healer of my soul and my body. Luv ya
Kari, I am so sorry that you are going through this. Your story is amazing and God was definitely looking out for you. I wish you the best as your body fights this horrible disease. I have lung cancer (the kind nonsmokers get) and if you need someone to talk to, I would love to be a support for you. (virginiasweetpea@gmail.com)
I also wanted to tell you that it was a PA who sent me for a chest x-ray and then an MRI. I credit her with saving my life.
thanks Paula…I KNOW the PA saved my life too…God’s perfect timing!
Paula, what a journey you are on also….lung cancer is another horrible disease. I appreciate your support and prayers. Thanks for offering to talk…we all can help each other as so many are going through their own journeys.
hugs and blessings
I started praying as soon as Chloe told me you had gotten some bad news just before Haven. So thankful to be able to see God’s hand and guidance through all of this… and you are bringing much glory to Him! Knowing His will is best, and praising Him no matter what! He is good, all the time, Kari… and I will continue praying (so glad He saw fit for an early diagnosis!)
Julie …God knows what is best and I have turned everything over to Him. He has promised to never leave me nor forsake me… and God is not a man that He should lie. Numbers 23:19
Thank you for your prayers. love ya
Words I thought I’d never say…I’m thankful the Lord made spiders!
How often we have thought and prayed for you and we will continue to do so. You’ve already let your faith shine brightly in the relationships touched thus far. We shall all celebrate with you the answers the Lord sends your way as you continue in this journey. Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart is a song we can sing together! Hugs, Beve
thanks Beve….you and Gary are always in our prayers and Tom and I appreciate all the prayers of our wonderful church family. I know you are weathering storms yourselves and one day we will be rejoicing together! I love you sweet friend.
Kari,
Thank you so much for sharing this! God is so, so good and He still has an amazing plan for your life and the Captains! You are in my thoughts and prayers as you continue this new journey. It’s amazing how God orchestrates everything for our blessing. Big hugs to you!
Thank you Lani…I look at all the amazing things God has made right down to the veining on a leaf. And then He makes millions of different varieties of leaves…and we haven’t even touched the surface of all the stars He has named. How can a human being not trust Him for His wise decisions? To God be the Glory. Thank you for your prayers.
Mega hugs from across the pond Kari. Keep strong and maintain your amazing strength and positive attitude. Sending you my love and prayers. Ross xx
thank you my friend. He is holding fast to me…I will trust in Him and my wonderful team of doctors. And this too shall pass.
Luv ya xxxooo
Kari, I will DEFINITELY keep you in my prayers and also put in a prayer request for you at church. Like you, I believe in the power of it. You are a beautiful, brave soul with a lot of energy and I think it takes more than this to bring you down. Your faith will sustain you. Love, pj
Thanks PJ…I know you understand this journey I am embarking on…we all have trials and tribulations that make us even stronger. No where does it say we won’t be tested from time to time…
1 Peter 1:6-7
In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith-more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire-may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Thank you for your prayers Pj…love ya
What a journey you have been on already. I will join the others and add you to my prayer list. Your faith is amazing and I know the Lord will be with you every step of the way.
Nancy I can’t express enough my gratitude for your prayers. God is leading the way and I am trusting Him that His Will Be Done. I am truly Blessed with so many wonderful believers supporting me on this journey. Hugs and Love
Oh sweet friend… I am in shock. Prayers have been sent. I am asking him to wrap his loving arms around you. He will protect you and will guide your doctors.
I am here for you. I love you!
Thank you Nancy…what a wonderful way to start my day with love and prayers from my dear friends. Hugs and blessings right back at you. You are indeed a good friend.
I could not get you off my mind today! Love you and God loves you too.
Wow, we’re stunned. So glad you pushed to have these tests done so quickly. And, that you’re starting treatments so soon. You’ve got such a positive outlook, that’s so important. You know our thoughts & prayers are with both you & The Captain. Just knowing that you have the best medical specialists helping you is comforting. When the surgery is over & you’re in remission, both you & Tom are welcome to come & visit. Please keep us informed on your blog as much as you can. Love you both! Janet & Bud
Oh Janet, Hawaii would be a good place to mellow out…hugs and much love to you and Bud and thank you for your prayers..We miss you but know you are where you love. I know your gardens are doing great! You have such a lovely place.
I promise to email you soon. Hugs
My dear Kari, you know how much I have been praying. You are a trophy of His grace and through your faith and testimony, God will receive glory! Love you sweet friend🙏🏻
Sweet Sweet Pam…how dear you and Butch are to the Captain and I. Thank you for your love and encouragement as we begin this new journey. Love Always
My dear Kari
I will pray for you each and everyday. I will ask my church family to add you to our prayer list. Know that you can count on so many of us.
Love and hugs
Judy
Judy…thank you so much. We had our monthly church potluck Saturday that the Captain and I host each month and I knew our church family was praying for both of us… but at the end of the meal and after a devotional, all 50 of them gathered around us and held a special prayer for us. It was so touching I cried tears of joy. I feel the same way as all of you wonderful cyber friends step forward.Thank you and blessings always
Kari, I have tears in my eyes for you right now, but I know that God has you in the palms of his hands. You are strong and I know that prayers from everyone and faith will guide you on this journey. I will add you to our daily prayers, along with your Captain and all our doctors. Hugs to you, sweet friend.
Thank you Carol….I so appreciate your prayers. God has said if I lead you to it, I will lead you through it. I trust Him and all my team of doctors have been so wonderful! Hugs right back at ya.
Kari, I am at a complete loss for words. I wish I could come up with something eloquent and profound to to die comfort. Pleases know you are in my thoughts and prayers. I know you will persevere through this difficult journey.
I am overjoyed at the love, support and prayers I am receiving from all my blogger friends…and I know you have gone through your own trials with your father. Hugs my friend.
Kari, I am speechless. I’m so sorry this is happening. Please take care and you will be in my prayers. Much love and big hugs. xxxxx
I so appreciate your prayers and concern Tammy. i was shocked at first because I have never smoked but growing up I was around second hand smoke. They really don’t know what causes Pancreatic Cancer…just an abnormal cell multiplying. Hugs right back at ya.
My dear friend,
I am feeling so much right now for you and your Captain. I do believe God brought you and I together, one woman in Florida and one woman in California so we could become friends. But more then that you have given me more support then you will ever know in my cancer fight. Just looking at the pretty pictures of your yard and tables would make things better for the moment.
I really, really hope I can be there for you or your husband if you need anything at all in your cancer journey. I have gone through almost everything you have described to get ready to treat your cancer including getting a port put in. It will make your infusions easier. Count me as one more person who is with you on your journey.
I, too, will say the Bible verses every day and pray for you and the Captain.
Your friend,
Linda
Oh Linda….believe it or not, you were the one person I kept thinking about when I started this journey. On one side, I did not want to discourage you in your battle….and on the other side, I wanted to hug and cry with you. But you are strong and so am I. And if God be for us, who can be against us? We may be on opposite coasts, but we are still one. We can say those Bible verses by claiming victory from God the Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Whatever happens in my case, I look at it as a win-win situation. Heaven or remaining on this earth. And Always, Always give God the Glory.
One of my favorite songs…and you know I love to sing….is this one: Sandi Patty: To God Be The Glory, My Tribute and it keeps going over and over in my head.
“How can I say thanks
for the things You have done for me?
Things so undeserved,
yet You gave to prove Your love for me;
the voices of a million angels
could not express my gratitude.
All that I am and ever hope to be,
I owe it all to Thee.
To God be the glory,
to God be the glory,
to God be the glory
for the things He has done.
With His blood He has saved me,
with His power He has raised me;
to God be the glory
for the things He has done.
Just let me live my life,
let it pleasing, Lord to Thee,
and if I gain any praise,
let it go to Calvary.”
love and hugs to you my dear sweet friend. I love you and I care.
Blessings
Kari
Kari, I am speechless, but I am a believer. I will pray for you diligently. Your journey is already so promising that I trust God was already lining up his army of angels to blaze your trail. God bless that PA at Urgent Care and your entire medical team. May you and your Captain find comfort and healing in the love and care that surrounds you. XO
Rita it means so much to me to see such outpouring of love….and to know that many of you are adding me to your prayer lists. Yes, I believe that PA saved my life.
God is so good and I use the verse in Phil 1:3…”I thank my God every time I remember you.” The journey has just begun and I am overwhelmed by all the prayers and people who care.Thank you sweet friend.