Sandy returned from TX this week with new results and a new plan. New to us, but not new to God. Cancer markers were significantly higher and new lesions on the liver were present, indicating the chemo has not been effective. Inflammation is suspected to be the reason she has been unable to keep food down for several weeks, which has led to continued weight loss.
Chemo has been discontinued, new prescriptions have been started, and we're awaiting the results of additional tests that will determine her eligibility for clinical trials of an up-and-coming treatment.
This is discouraging news, though we remember that our hope is in God and not in tests. Outcomes are not limited by what doctors, with all of their experience and knowledge, tell us. Sandy is planning to enjoy several days on the lake with a friend for their annual vacation before teaching in July and gearing up for the fall semester. And there are quite a few grandkids looking forward to their sleepovers at Grandma Sandy's and Papa Rod's house. She is going to keep going as long as she can, striving to enjoy each day, as we all ought to do.
Thank you for praying for the end of the semester's workload - she was able to attend classes and final exams, complete grades, and attend graduation. The TX trip went smoothly, and they made good time coming home. She has pretty flowers in all of her flower pots, she found a couple pairs of capris that fit regardless of the ever-changing size of her abdomen, and she has been able to attend church each week.
Please pray for physical comfort, absorption and digestion of food/nutrients, wisdom, peace, and physical strength.
Below is the link to a song that she wanted to share with you:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNkDdXhjFy0
Natalie Grant
"More Than Anything"
I know if You wanted to You could wave Your hand
Spare me this heartache and change Your plan
And I know any second You could take my pain away
But even if You don't I pray
Help me want the Healer more than the healing
Help me want the Savior more than the saving
Help me want the Giver more than the giving
Help me want You Jesus more than anything
You know more than anyone that my flesh is weak
And You know I'd give anything for a remedy
And I'll ask a thousand more times to set me free today
Oh but even if You don't I pray
Help me want the Healer more than the healing
Help me want the Savior more than the saving
Help me want the Giver more than the giving
Oh Help me want You Jesus more than anything
When I'm desperate and my heart's overcome
all that I need You've already done
When I'm desperate and my heart's overcome
all that I need You've already done
Oh Jesus Help me want You more than anything
Help me want the Healer more than the healing
Help me want the Savior more than the saving
Help me want the Giver more than the giving
Help me want You Jesus more than anything
Help me want You Jesus more than anything
