Failing Flesh

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Psalm 73:26

During this week eight years ago, my world was turned upside down. I went to the doctor for a small matter expecting to be given a prescription for some pills to take. Instead, I received some shocking news. I had an 8.5 pound tumor—the same size as my first child at birth. The news was unbelievable. Tests were hurried along. Surgery was scheduled. And the results were that it was malignant—I had ovarian cancer. It was a nightmare. I didn’t realize it at the time, but our unexpected journey had begun!

My first oncologist was efficient in her care, but not very hopeful. She explained that most of her ovarian cancer patients were gone within two years. She had one lady that made it to five years, but that was rare. A few weeks after surgery, I began a course of chemo treatment. My oncologist “only believed in medicine” so she refused to explore any supplemental treatments that might be helpful.

Meanwhile, we rallied people to pray for me, and I began my own research into other treatments that might be helpful. Over the coming years I had eight surgeries, four types of chemo treatment, and I worked with an Integrated Functional Medicine specialist who incorporated herbal medicines, massage therapy, and reflexology for my numb feet into my treatment regimen.

To say it’s been a journey is an understatement. In looking back, I’m not sure how I survived except for God’s wonderful grace. My second oncologist, who is much more positive and hopeful, calls it a miracle that I’m still alive. She says that having hope and being involved in one’s own treatment makes all the difference in the outcome. I tell her about all the prayers that have been lifted up on my behalf. She knows and understands, too, about Floyd’s part of the journey in being ill for over five years. She acknowledges that it’s extremely rare to have survived all that has happened. In spite of the fact that I am still battling cancer, she says I’m doing remarkably well.

God has certainly “carried” me through all these years. I am beyond grateful, and give Him all the glory for still being alive to write you about this today. Even though I still have cancer, in many ways He has “healed” me. Many prayers have been answered. God has been so, so good to me!

I have come close to “fainting”—not surviving—on several occasions. But God has truly sustained me. Thank you for your love and care over these years. You have prayed and lifted my weary hands. I’m not only grateful to God—I’m grateful to you!

All glory to You, O God. Thank You for the ways You work in our lives. We trust You to carry us beyond today and into Your glorious eternity. Amen.