An Undeserved Miracle

Last week I posted about my two special days recently - the "anniversary" of Floyd's passing and our wedding anniversary.  Both days were special.  One was tender and one was sweet.  On both days I sensed the Lord's comfort and presence in a precious way.

Now - the month of June is special to me!  Ten years ago this month I was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer.  It's been a rough journey - 8 surgeries, 4 types of chemo treatment, radiation therapy, various physical therapies, and multiple homeopathic/natural treatments/supplements (and all while making sure Floyd was well cared for during his 5+ years in the hospital).  I constantly research different treatments.  I've found several things very helpful - especially in treating symptoms - and have shared with my doctors things that they have been able to recommend to other patients.

My first oncologist had a somewhat negative viewpoint.  She "only believed in medicine" and wasn't open to any supplementary treatments.  She said in her experience some patients survived a few months, some a year/maybe two, and the longest one survived 5 years.  I felt like she had already given up on me.  I was praying and doing my best to survive - especially so that I could care for Floyd.  I finally realized I needed to find another oncologist.

The doctor I've been with now for about 7 years is wonderful!  She is "open" to anything that I find helpful.  She is supportive, she listens, she's available to me anytime, and she's very kind.  She says she thinks the most important things are for her cancer patients to have hope - and to be involved in their own care.....so my researching and finding things that have helped me is, in her mind, very important!!  I love her attitude.  She calls me a "miracle" with having survived so many years.  I agree with her - it's only by God's grace that I'm still alive.  I'm so grateful.

I realize that every day is a precious gift from the Lord.  I celebrate each day - and have no idea how many more I'll have......I hope it's a lot!  I have things I still want to do.

"I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!"  Psalm 27:13

"The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; He knows those who take refuge in Him."  Nahum 1:7

"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life."  Psalm 23:6

"We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him."  Romans 8:28

"I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."  Jeremiah 29:11

I share that verse from Jeremiah often because it means so much to me.  The truth of it is powerful.  Even when we don't fully understand - His plans for us are good.....they give hope and a future.

These are just a very few of the verses that have meant a lot to me on this ten year journey.  The Word is full of God's promises, comfort, love, and care for us.

As I walk through this 10 year anniversary month, I find myself spontaneously thanking the Lord for His goodness to me!  I don't deserve this "miracle," but I'm very grateful.