This has to be the most difficult communication I have ever had to write. We sat, waited and prayed during Jewel’s surgery. Within less than two hours of the surgery starting the lead surgeon spoke to us. While the surgery itself went very well we were told that the outcome was different than the results everyone had hoped for.
The initial diagnosis is that Jewel has Stage II Ovarian Cancer. While at the moment the cancer seems to be limited to one ovary they are doing further testing. We will know more results when the pathology has been completed. The surgeon went on to tell us the Cancer Clinic will determine the next steps of care but it would include chemotherapy.
While we knew these results were a potential, it is hard to actually hear them spoken to you.
In the midst of this hurricane we feel the presence of God. Our pastor came to our side within a short time of us hearing this news. We prayed, we cried, we hugged and we read scripture.
In some ways the most difficult part has been sharing the news with family and friends.
You need to know that while we feel overwhelmed by the news we are not without hope.
Since I heard the news an email that our friend Kay Warren of Saddleback Church (who has twice been diagnosed with cancer) wrote us has been ringing in my heart and mind. It is a promise that I am believing for Jewel.
Kay wrote:
“The verse that came to my mind as I lay on the radiologist’s table during the breast biopsy was job 23:10: “He knows the way I take, and when he has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” The comfort of that verse was immense that day – the God of the vast universe knows the way I take, and that must mean He will have everything I need prepared for me ahead of time. He did. He knows the way Jewel is taking, and He will take care of all the details she needs to fulfill His purposes for her life. The two of you have known Jesus intimately for many years, so I have no doubts that He will produce something lovely and beautiful – “gold” – from the fires of this trial in your lives. Praying that you know His peace in the middle of the anxiety, and praying for her complete healing.”
Again let me underscore our depth of appreciation for the support, love and encouragement we have been receiving during this time of trial.
On the journey,
Geoff for Jewel, Justin a Natasha
Dear Geoff
ReplyDeleteMay God give you all, strenght and confidence. God is with you.
Bessings from PEACE AND HOPE - Peru
Alfonso W
Our love and prayers for you all. God indeed knows the path we take each and every moment. Serge and Jen
ReplyDeleteWe intimately understand the anguish and the presence of our Lord in this. We continue to pray.
ReplyDeletePhill - Bill - Mike - Dave Hackett - visionSynergy
Geoff, Brian forwarded me the email he received today. I read several of your posts and am praying for Jewel, for you, and the family. Refined gold is a beautiful and precious thing.
ReplyDeleteBlessings upon you all, Christine O'Connell
I'll continue to pray for ALL of you, that our Father will keep holding Jewel (and you!) safe and secure in His loving arms...HE wasn't surprised by anything ~ and He also knows exactly what to do, and when and how to accomplish it all! Good thing HE'S in charge...! Love and hugs, Hol.
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