Today it began. After a wonderful day of worship, and fellowship with family, it was off to bed to get ready for Day -8. Sleep did not come easy or stay. That whole scenario we had played out so many times about going now or going later, not knowing how this will all turn out in God's providence
So the day starts and we move forward. Able to say farewell to Andrea and Derek as she goes off to work. We received a number of emails from our children and family this morning yet, to encourage us and remind us of God's love for us. Michael and Rachel sent an email and included:
Psalm 27:13-14 "I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart. Wait, I say, on the LORD!"
What a beautiful psalm for Barb and I to use in our morning devotions, to read the promises of God and pray them to Him, they are for us!! And then go.
By 11 a.m I have a Hickman Central Line installed in Day surgery and have been admitted into the isolation unit. Monday's are busy at the Cancer Clinic Pharmacy and it is not until 4:15 that pre chemo drugs are given by IV for anti nausea, also on anti seizure, and a couple of other preventative types. At 5 my first round of Chemotherapy by IV begins, Busulfan, which I will be on for the first four days. So far so good on side effects for which I am thankful ( yes it's early, but thankful nonetheless).
Karen comes by briefly and leaves with Mom.
Ready to sleep now, but would like to share some prayer requests:
1. That the chemo drugs will kill all the cancer cells as intended.
2. That early side effects will be minimal and tolerated.
3. That Barb has travelling mercies and peaceful rest.
4. That our children are able to carry out their responsibilities whatever challenges come each day.
5. That our parents may be comforted through this time too, by the people of God.
6. That we may know the peace and rest of God tonight again.
8 comments:
Good to hear from your, brother.
Thanks for the prayer list.
Lekker slaap.
Eko
We love you Uncle Richard. The kids are all sending up special prayers for you--we all are. May you sleep well and may God continue to grant you His peace. Glad to hear that you are feeling okay for now.
Love, Aileen, Brian, Madilyn, Caden, Eden and Daena (P.S. The kids are sending you monster hugs too.)
Richard, we are praying as you requested.
Thank you for your testimony...very encouraging!
Oh, and thank you (and Karen) for this blog
Tom and Margriet Smit
Thanks for the prayer requests. It's the least we can do for you... and perhaps the most! Much love to you and Barb and the family.
Hebrews 13:6,8
"So we say with confidence, The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortal do to me?"..."Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever"
Praying for you, Sandra
Richard and Barb,
I was thinking of you both all day yesterday knowing how tough it is to face this- it's good to see your faith and to see how God is taking care of you. You both are in our prayers.
Praying for a good day two of chemo - thoughts and prayers are with you all.
You have both been in our thoughts and prayers often since we heard of your diagnosis; now that the process is actually underway, we'll make it a priority to pray for you both daily. Thanks for the prayer requests - it sure helps to know what to pray for specifically.
Lamentations 3:22-24 (NIV)
22 Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
23 They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
24 I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him.”
One of our personal favourite verses will be our prayer for you:
Romans 15:13 (NIV)
13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Rick and Jannette
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