We struggle daily. I use the term 'we', because if anyone has ever experienced their loved one fight cancer, you know this disease does not just impact that person, it impacts the entire family. We have been fighting since Dad's initial diagnosis, we have been praying for a cure and we have never, ever given up hope- because (I've said it once, and I'll say it again) miracles happen every day.
Our struggle is difficult. Our struggle involves dealing with insurance companies, hospitals, and scheduling Oncology/MRI appointments, although that struggle I'm able to handle on my side- as I'm truly my father's daughter when it comes to dealing with these different people. Let's just say, Lar doesn't take too much crap from anyone, and neither do I. The struggle to deal with those things can be frustrating, time consuming and just downright annoying, but that struggle is so small compared to our much larger struggle- accepting our new normal.
Normal. What is our new normal? Dad moves slower than he use to, he's tired a lot more and his words aren't always right. To me, none of that matters. To me, he still has his same smile, same sense of humor and same love for me. I've tried to explain that to Dad. I've tried to explain that they had to remove a tumor, a mass, from his brain, I've tried to explain that radiation treatment causes damages too- but he doesn't see all of that, he just sees that his speech is different post-treatment, his memory is different post-treatment and he's way more tired post-treatment. And yes, that may all be true. But what I'm trying so hard for him to see is that post-treatment, post-cancer, post-seizure, all I see is my Dad. The same man who has worked hard for his family since day 1, the same man that (although I probably drive him crazy 99% of the time) loves me with all his heart, and the same man that has fight, determination and pure love in his heart.
I'm not sure when Dad will realize this, I'm not sure if Dad will ever truly accept his new normal. It's a struggle, as it would be for anyone going through a similar experience. How do you go from thinking clearly, having strength to work all day long, to now having a hard time finding the right words to say or having to nap during the day? I know that is difficult for him. I know that he has a hard time accepting this new normal, but WE are all on this journey with him. WE will all find a way to accept the new normal and WE will all find a way to do it with courage, humor and grace.
Pray that we will continue to find God's way throughout our journey, continue to pray that we all learn to accept our new normal. Often we forget that greatness is best measured by how well someone responds to the happenings in their life that appear to be completely unfair, unreasonable and undeserved. I still truly believe that God so perfectly picked my family for this journey, and I will continue to praise him throughout it all.
I always go back to my devotional, and with so many people that are experiencing difficult times, I can't help but remember the day I read this quote, the day I needed to see this more than I'll ever know. "You see huge mountains looming, and you start wondering how you're going to scale those heights...you tell me how worried you are about cliffs up ahead. But you don't know what will happen today, much less tomorrow...If I do lead you up the cliffs, I will equip you thoroughly for that strenuous climb. Keep your mind on the present journey, enjoying My Presence. Walk by faith, not by sight."
Continuing to walk by faith throughout it all, learning to accept our new normal and continuing to feel blessed throughout it all.
Friday, May 30, 2014
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Another Round of Chemo Done! Update 5/28/2014
"Yeah, every time I think about when he had the seizure my mind goes back to (the) fair only 2 weeks before...We were all hanging out talking and you would never ever have known what was going on. He has come a long way from where he started. He is an impressive man, that is for sure."
There are many times where I feel like writing, expressing my thoughts, feelings and emotions, but there are many times where I can't seem to find any words to put down on paper. Those moments where the words aren't there, those moments where I'm feeling truly lost in this journey, I somehow seem to find inspiration to continue on, inspiration to write.
Many things inspire me to write- my daily devotional, quotes I find from other cancer fighters and caregivers, and encouraging words from friends and family. That quote above was from a friend of mine, a friend of mine that I've known since the 3rd grade, a friend of mine that reminds me that although we grow separately, we've never grown apart, a friend of mine that is more like a sister. She reminded me how inspiring Dad has been to others, how he continues to impress me daily and others in his fight, and she reminded me that we have come such a long way in just a short amount of time.
The cards that have been mailed, the calls that have been made, the text messages that have been sent, all have been shared with Dad, and I know that has made such a huge difference. I see support from so many people- people who are all too familiar with our struggle, and those who just want to help. We can not thank you all enough! Because of the kind words and wonderful amounts of prayers, I'm inspired to be happy and thankful. Our friends and family have inspired us to want to help others, the way we've been helped by so many, and our friends and family have inspired us to keep fighting.
Dad finished another round of chemo last week, and I'm happy to say that he has continued to feel good and continued his positive attitude throughout it all. Dad will have another round of Avastin treatment on Monday, followed by an appointment with Dr. Fleener. At this appointment we will schedule the MRI and follow-up MRI appointment. Knowing another MRI is right around the corner brings the anxiety and fear that I so dread having, but I'm trying to take it all one day at a time and learning to trust in a much higher power throughout this all.
Dad is listed on the 'Hero' section on the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation website, a foundation that has given more to me than I'll ever be able to give back, a foundation that has given hope to our family, hope for a cure. I encourage you all to visit the 'Hero' section, here you will see Dad's page, along with so many others who are or have fought this disease, so many others who know of our fight all too well. http://drmarnierose.org/our-heroes/larry-glenz/
When Dad was first diagnosed I had never heard of anyone having brain cancer. I felt lost, alone and terrified of our journey. I was able to read so many stories of others who fought this disease, others who know of our battle, and others who continue to fight every day.
I pray each day that Dad continues to fight this disease, and I pray each day that we all continue with the strength to make it through this fight- it's never easy, but having such a strong faith seems to make the bad days good, and the good days great.
Keep praying and we will keep fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
There are many times where I feel like writing, expressing my thoughts, feelings and emotions, but there are many times where I can't seem to find any words to put down on paper. Those moments where the words aren't there, those moments where I'm feeling truly lost in this journey, I somehow seem to find inspiration to continue on, inspiration to write.
Many things inspire me to write- my daily devotional, quotes I find from other cancer fighters and caregivers, and encouraging words from friends and family. That quote above was from a friend of mine, a friend of mine that I've known since the 3rd grade, a friend of mine that reminds me that although we grow separately, we've never grown apart, a friend of mine that is more like a sister. She reminded me how inspiring Dad has been to others, how he continues to impress me daily and others in his fight, and she reminded me that we have come such a long way in just a short amount of time.
The cards that have been mailed, the calls that have been made, the text messages that have been sent, all have been shared with Dad, and I know that has made such a huge difference. I see support from so many people- people who are all too familiar with our struggle, and those who just want to help. We can not thank you all enough! Because of the kind words and wonderful amounts of prayers, I'm inspired to be happy and thankful. Our friends and family have inspired us to want to help others, the way we've been helped by so many, and our friends and family have inspired us to keep fighting.
Dad finished another round of chemo last week, and I'm happy to say that he has continued to feel good and continued his positive attitude throughout it all. Dad will have another round of Avastin treatment on Monday, followed by an appointment with Dr. Fleener. At this appointment we will schedule the MRI and follow-up MRI appointment. Knowing another MRI is right around the corner brings the anxiety and fear that I so dread having, but I'm trying to take it all one day at a time and learning to trust in a much higher power throughout this all.
Dad is listed on the 'Hero' section on the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation website, a foundation that has given more to me than I'll ever be able to give back, a foundation that has given hope to our family, hope for a cure. I encourage you all to visit the 'Hero' section, here you will see Dad's page, along with so many others who are or have fought this disease, so many others who know of our fight all too well. http://drmarnierose.org/our-heroes/larry-glenz/
When Dad was first diagnosed I had never heard of anyone having brain cancer. I felt lost, alone and terrified of our journey. I was able to read so many stories of others who fought this disease, others who know of our battle, and others who continue to fight every day.
I pray each day that Dad continues to fight this disease, and I pray each day that we all continue with the strength to make it through this fight- it's never easy, but having such a strong faith seems to make the bad days good, and the good days great.
Keep praying and we will keep fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Dad Picture: 5/22/2014
I realized that I post pictures of Dad on Facebook and Instagram when we are out at weddings or other events, but I realized that those of you who I'm not Facebook friends with or who are not able to follow me on Instagram may never see how GREAT Dad looks.
I wanted to share a picture of Mom, Dad and myself at a wedding this past weekend. It's just another way of showing that cancer sucks, but God is truly good. Dad is looking and feeling great, and that is ALL that we can ever ask for.
Dad started another round of chemotherapy on Monday, and so far he has been feeling good. Another HUGE milestone for Dad occurred last night- he drove for the first time since the seizure on October 5, 2013.
State law requires 6 months of no driving after a person suffers from a seizure, which meant that Dad could not drive until April 6, 2014. He has been apprehensive to drive again, but last night he wanted to drive with Mom to see my cousin. It has really become all about the little things in life, and these little things have put such a huge smile on my face.
Thank you all who continue to read our story, thank you all who continue to pray for us daily, and thank you all who have helped us continue to fight and BTHO Brain Cancer!
I wanted to share a picture of Mom, Dad and myself at a wedding this past weekend. It's just another way of showing that cancer sucks, but God is truly good. Dad is looking and feeling great, and that is ALL that we can ever ask for.
Dad started another round of chemotherapy on Monday, and so far he has been feeling good. Another HUGE milestone for Dad occurred last night- he drove for the first time since the seizure on October 5, 2013.
State law requires 6 months of no driving after a person suffers from a seizure, which meant that Dad could not drive until April 6, 2014. He has been apprehensive to drive again, but last night he wanted to drive with Mom to see my cousin. It has really become all about the little things in life, and these little things have put such a huge smile on my face.
Thank you all who continue to read our story, thank you all who continue to pray for us daily, and thank you all who have helped us continue to fight and BTHO Brain Cancer!
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Dad Update: 5/20/2014
"Anyone can give up, it's the easiest thing in the world to do. But to hold it together when everyone else would understand if you fell apart, that's true strength."
I read that quote and I immediately thought of Dad- true strength. He has never complained, never stopped fighting and has continued to hold everything together during his treatment, I am just so incredibly proud of him.
Dad started another round of chemotherapy last night and will have another Avastin treatment today. We just continue to pray the treatments are working, we continue to pray Dad continues to feel good throughout his treatments, and we continue to pray for a miracle- complete healing.
I can't tell you for certain if the treatments are working, if the cancer growth has stopped or if Dad is in remission- what I can tell you is how all of this has changed me, how all of this has changed my family and how all of this has been more of a blessing than a curse.
I know it's weird for me to continue to say 'blessing' when it comes to a cancer diagnosis, and please don't get me wrong- cancer sucks. The situation sucks. Chemo sucks. Radiation sucks. Surgery sucks. Oncology appointments suck. There is nothing glamorous about cancer, there is nothing fun about cancer- but all the energy it takes to hate this disease, all the energy it takes to be angry, mad and upset at cancer could be used towards something much greater- hope. When hope and hopelessness are both an option, why not chose hope? And that's exactly what we have done.
Our family is different. My immediate family has changed, we appreciate life, we appreciate one another and we have a bond that can never be broken. My aunts, uncles, cousins- they have all changed, and I've seen it first hand. Maybe they don't all see it, maybe they don't all see the wonderful impact they've had on our lives, but I do, and I appreciate it more than they will ever know. And my friends are different. They too sometimes tell me that they don't feel like they've done enough when I thank them for something, but they have all gone above and beyond for me. They have listened to me cry, helped me laugh and supported our efforts to bring awareness to brain cancer research.
I think that's why I'm picky with who I give my energy to. I want to reserve my time, intensity and spirit to those who reflect sincerity, to those who have been there for me. I like to say that life is too short to be wasted on bad coffee and people who don't care- so I don't drink bad coffee and I like to surround myself with people who influence me to be a better person, who impact my family in a positive way, and who truly love me for me.
Continue praying for Dad, as he continues his fight to BTHO Brain Cancer!
*Don't forget to #GoGrayInMay to support Brain Cancer Research!*
I read that quote and I immediately thought of Dad- true strength. He has never complained, never stopped fighting and has continued to hold everything together during his treatment, I am just so incredibly proud of him.
Dad started another round of chemotherapy last night and will have another Avastin treatment today. We just continue to pray the treatments are working, we continue to pray Dad continues to feel good throughout his treatments, and we continue to pray for a miracle- complete healing.
I can't tell you for certain if the treatments are working, if the cancer growth has stopped or if Dad is in remission- what I can tell you is how all of this has changed me, how all of this has changed my family and how all of this has been more of a blessing than a curse.
I know it's weird for me to continue to say 'blessing' when it comes to a cancer diagnosis, and please don't get me wrong- cancer sucks. The situation sucks. Chemo sucks. Radiation sucks. Surgery sucks. Oncology appointments suck. There is nothing glamorous about cancer, there is nothing fun about cancer- but all the energy it takes to hate this disease, all the energy it takes to be angry, mad and upset at cancer could be used towards something much greater- hope. When hope and hopelessness are both an option, why not chose hope? And that's exactly what we have done.
Our family is different. My immediate family has changed, we appreciate life, we appreciate one another and we have a bond that can never be broken. My aunts, uncles, cousins- they have all changed, and I've seen it first hand. Maybe they don't all see it, maybe they don't all see the wonderful impact they've had on our lives, but I do, and I appreciate it more than they will ever know. And my friends are different. They too sometimes tell me that they don't feel like they've done enough when I thank them for something, but they have all gone above and beyond for me. They have listened to me cry, helped me laugh and supported our efforts to bring awareness to brain cancer research.
I think that's why I'm picky with who I give my energy to. I want to reserve my time, intensity and spirit to those who reflect sincerity, to those who have been there for me. I like to say that life is too short to be wasted on bad coffee and people who don't care- so I don't drink bad coffee and I like to surround myself with people who influence me to be a better person, who impact my family in a positive way, and who truly love me for me.
Continue praying for Dad, as he continues his fight to BTHO Brain Cancer!
*Don't forget to #GoGrayInMay to support Brain Cancer Research!*
Monday, May 12, 2014
Cancer Diagnosis 7 months later...
It's been 7 months since Dad was diagnosed with Stage 4 Brain Cancer...7 short months that have felt like a lifetime. I started reflecting over these last 7 months, and I started reflecting on the number of others I know who have heard that terrible 6 letter word: Cancer.
I'm not sure if it's because news is available to us at our fingertips, or if because my eyes have now been open to the world of cancer- but it feels like more and more people I know have heard the word "cancer", more and more people I know have to go through the same fight, fear and determination my family is going through- and it breaks my heart.
I'm not sure if it's because news is available to us at our fingertips, or if because my eyes have now been open to the world of cancer- but it feels like more and more people I know have heard the word "cancer", more and more people I know have to go through the same fight, fear and determination my family is going through- and it breaks my heart.
So many people have commented on our faith, determination and positive attitude throughout it all. And yes, we have kept our faith, maintained our determination and stayed as positive as possible, but know that it hasn't always been this way. There have been stages throughout Dad's diagnosis, stages that have brought me to where I am today, but stages that were my lowest of lows.
I remember hearing the word "malignant". I remember hearing the word "cancer". It was October 10, 2013, at Scott & White Hospital, in a room that I would like to never be in again. Cancer. My entire world stopped and tears streamed down my face.
The drive back to Brenham was long and quiet. In the car was Mom, Dad and myself. Mom cried the entire way home, and I just held her hand. I remember at one point Mom looked at me and said, "I'm just sick. I want to throw up." And that was exactly how I felt. Dad didn't want to talk about it, Mom didn't want to talk about it and I knew that I had to be the one to tell others about Dad's diagnosis, I was going to have to make the calls to Mom's work, Dad's work and family to tell them the news- and my only thought was that I wasn't near strong enough to make it through it all.
I tried to find the strength and courage to make the calls that I didn't want to make and send the texts that I never wanted to send. It was so extremely hard for me to say "tumor" or "brain cancer", it was so extremely hard for me to try to have faith in a higher power when this was our diagnosis.
I made the calls, sent the texts and attempted to sleep the nights leading up to Dad's surgery. My nights were more like therapy sessions with God. I talked to him, I yelled at him, and I cried- I cried a lot. I went through weeks of being angry, upset, and mad at God. I didn't understand why my family was being put through this, I didn't understand why my family would have to go through something so terrible, little did I know that a few weeks later I would understand.
At first I felt guilty for feeling this way. I felt guilty for being so angry with God and attempting to turn my back on him, I felt guilty for not understanding this path and having full and complete faith in him.
I'm not exactly sure when all that changed. I'm not exactly sure when my anger turned into love and my confusion turned into faith- but it did. Maybe it was those sleepless nights where I had no where to turn, no one to talk to but God- I had no choice but to have him help me through this time.
A cancer diagnosis is never easy. There is no "cookie cutter" way to deal with a cancer diagnosis, nor can you ever imagine how you will react when you're faced with something so life changing. After a few weeks of hate, anger and fear, I realized that so much of my energy was going towards feelings that were not helping Dad, were not helping Mom and were not helping me. I realized I had one choice, and that was to let go and let God.
We've survived these last 7 months on faith, friends and family. We've survived with smiles on our faces and tears down our cheeks. We've survived knowing that God so perfectly picked this path for our family, that God selected us for this journey.
I can't sit here and tell you that it gets easier. I can't sit here and tell you that scheduling Oncology appointments, discussing chemotherapy or other IV treatments gets easier, but I can tell you that you get stronger. You realize that you have this strength to get through the lowest of lows, because you just know that after the lows, there will be the highs.
Dad had an extremely busy weekend. He was tired, sore and just worn out from our garage sale on Saturday- so we spent most of Sunday relaxing, napping and enjoying the day. Right now we take it all one day at a time, and we are thankful that today is a good day. On Wednesday Dad's next round of chemotherapy drugs are being delivered, which means another round of chemo is coming up- and Dad dreads that! Praying that the chemo continues to work and Dad continues to feel good throughout the next upcoming week.
We continue to keep fighting, keep praying and keep hoping for a cure. We have survived these last 7 months on faith, and we will survive the next months continuing to lean on faith, friends and family. We've never tried to deny the diagnosis, but we will defy the verdict.
Keep praying and we will keep fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Quick Dad Update 5/7/2014
Wanted to share a quick update on Dad's last CT scan and doctor appointment yesterday:
When Dad had his initial MRI a couple of weeks ago, the doctors were a bit concerned with a bleed that was indicated near the tumor. After a discussion between Dad's Neurosurgeon and Oncologist, they determined that this was not unusual, although monitoring the bleed with a CT scan in a couple of weeks would be for the best- so that's what we did. Dad got his CT scan results back yesterday and it looks like the bleed has dissolved, which was great news! Dad went through another Avastin treatment and scheduled a couple of follow up appointments with his Oncologist for the up coming weeks.
The plan right now is to continue the Avastin treatment every 2 weeks, along with chemotherapy, and repeat the MRI in about 6 weeks.
Continue praying and we will continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer.
*Don't forget to Go Gray In May for Brain Cancer Awareness!*
Monday, May 5, 2014
Dad Update: 5/5/2014
"What I've learned from life is that for every inch of sadness lies a foot of happiness ahead. I've learned that the simplest of times brings the grandest of pleasures and that the hardest goodbyes often lead to the best hellos. I've learned that crazy chances guide us to unexpected discoveries and that tough times unveil the sincerity of people. I've learned that you have to hold onto your smile everyday and free yourself of that frown."
I would have never imagined my life would involve normal discussions about Social Security disability, chemotherapy treatments, radiation treatment or numerous types of medication and what they are used for. I would have never imagined this would all be part of my new normal- a life that involves scheduling doctor appointments with Oncologists, a life that involves talking with others about cancer and their treatment options, and a life- that throughout all the mess- is the most perfect life I could ever ask for.
It's probably a bit weird to say that my life is perfect, as many people would find caring for someone you love with cancer is far from perfect, but what a gift it's all been. Very few people see the world the way I do it now- I don't take little things for granted, I cherish each and every moment with those I love, and I've learned that sometimes you just have to let go and let God.
I've learned to appreciate the little things in life, I've learned that life is short (way too short) to be anything but happy, and I've learned that sometimes a few beers and good friends is all you need to have the perfect weekend.
Dad was busy this weekend, which although made him extremely tired, it was so good for him to be out and see friends and family- friends and family that have been with us every step of the way. I came home Saturday to my Mom with tears in her eyes. She and Dad had just returned from one of Dad's co-workers daughter's wedding and I feared that something happened or Dad wasn't feeling well again. She said that the wedding was nice and everyone was so nice to Dad, especially Dad's co-worker. She said how he made it a point to see Dad, and was sincerely happy that they made it out to the wedding, and how (even at the wedding for his daughter) was wearing Dad's gray bracelet. Sometimes the toughest moments in life really do unveil the sincerity of people. It was just another reminder of how blessed we've been throughout this journey with such amazing people with us every step of the way.
Dad also made a trip to College Station to watch the Figthin' Texas Aggies take on LSU, and with a win for the Aggies it was a great day for Dad. I'm thinking the Aggies might want to invite Dad to every upcoming game, since clearly he was the Aggies' good luck charm.
I was stopped so many times and asked how Dad was doing, and I truly mean it when I thank people for asking about him. It never gets old to hear that someone is thinking about him or that someone is praying for him, so it never gets old to me to tell you how things are going and what treatment Dad is going through. I've always wanted people to know exactly what was going on, so they knew exactly what to pray for.
My response to those who asked was, "He's had a really good week." And that's exactly how we take it all, one week at a time, sometimes one day at a time, and other times just one minute at a time. The cancer is not gone, Dad is not considered to be in remission, but there was no more growth and Dad hasn't felt this good since his surgery, and for that we are blessed.
Life is filled with unexpected moments, and I'm slowly learning and grasping that life should be lived from intention and less from habit.
Keep praying and we will keep fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer.
#GoGrayInMay #MyGrayDay #BTHOBrainCancer
I would have never imagined my life would involve normal discussions about Social Security disability, chemotherapy treatments, radiation treatment or numerous types of medication and what they are used for. I would have never imagined this would all be part of my new normal- a life that involves scheduling doctor appointments with Oncologists, a life that involves talking with others about cancer and their treatment options, and a life- that throughout all the mess- is the most perfect life I could ever ask for.
It's probably a bit weird to say that my life is perfect, as many people would find caring for someone you love with cancer is far from perfect, but what a gift it's all been. Very few people see the world the way I do it now- I don't take little things for granted, I cherish each and every moment with those I love, and I've learned that sometimes you just have to let go and let God.
I've learned to appreciate the little things in life, I've learned that life is short (way too short) to be anything but happy, and I've learned that sometimes a few beers and good friends is all you need to have the perfect weekend.
Dad was busy this weekend, which although made him extremely tired, it was so good for him to be out and see friends and family- friends and family that have been with us every step of the way. I came home Saturday to my Mom with tears in her eyes. She and Dad had just returned from one of Dad's co-workers daughter's wedding and I feared that something happened or Dad wasn't feeling well again. She said that the wedding was nice and everyone was so nice to Dad, especially Dad's co-worker. She said how he made it a point to see Dad, and was sincerely happy that they made it out to the wedding, and how (even at the wedding for his daughter) was wearing Dad's gray bracelet. Sometimes the toughest moments in life really do unveil the sincerity of people. It was just another reminder of how blessed we've been throughout this journey with such amazing people with us every step of the way.
Dad also made a trip to College Station to watch the Figthin' Texas Aggies take on LSU, and with a win for the Aggies it was a great day for Dad. I'm thinking the Aggies might want to invite Dad to every upcoming game, since clearly he was the Aggies' good luck charm.
I was stopped so many times and asked how Dad was doing, and I truly mean it when I thank people for asking about him. It never gets old to hear that someone is thinking about him or that someone is praying for him, so it never gets old to me to tell you how things are going and what treatment Dad is going through. I've always wanted people to know exactly what was going on, so they knew exactly what to pray for.
My response to those who asked was, "He's had a really good week." And that's exactly how we take it all, one week at a time, sometimes one day at a time, and other times just one minute at a time. The cancer is not gone, Dad is not considered to be in remission, but there was no more growth and Dad hasn't felt this good since his surgery, and for that we are blessed.
Life is filled with unexpected moments, and I'm slowly learning and grasping that life should be lived from intention and less from habit.
Keep praying and we will keep fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer.
#GoGrayInMay #MyGrayDay #BTHOBrainCancer
Thursday, May 1, 2014
#GoGrayInMay
Today is the start of Brain Cancer Awareness Month, a month that is focused on supporting Brain Cancer research and awareness. A month that is focused on supporting those fighting this horrible disease, and to remember those who lost their battle against brain cancer.
My daily devotional is absolutely perfect every single day, and today was no exception:
"You are on the path of My choosing. There is no randomness about your life. Here and Now comprise the coordinates of your daily life. Most people let their moments slip through their fingers, half-lived. They avoid the present by worrying about the future or longing for a better time and place. They forget that they are creatures who are subject to the limitation of time and space. They forget their Creator, who walks with them only in the present.
Every moment is alive with My glorious Presence, to those whose hearts are intimately connected with Mine. As you give yourself more and more to a life of constant communication with Me, you will find that you simply have no time for worry. Thus, you are freed to let My Spirit direct your steps, enabling you to walk along the path of Peace."
"...No randomness about your life." What an amazing concept! People, places, events- nothing in life has been random, all has been part of this perfect plan that God created for me and for my family. Maybe our plan doesn't look perfect, maybe our struggles and fears of the future seem far from the "perfect" life that we all think and hope for, and maybe for you that's true- but for me, my life has been truly perfect. Dad's fight, Dad's determination, and Dad's faith has been so incredibly inspirational- and I know that if anyone can beat the odds, it's going to be him.
The month of May will be filled with our usual ups and downs, highs and lows, and determination to beat this disease. Dad will continue with another round of chemotherapy soon and another Avastin treatment next week. The MRIs and follow up appointments always seem to bring fear and stress into my life, but I know that "as [I] give [myself] more and more to a life of constant communication with [Him], [I] will find that [I] simply have no time for worry." The month of May will also be filled with awareness and hope, as May is Brain Cancer/Tumor Awareness Month.
#MyGrayDay will be tomorrow, and every Friday during May- as I will be wearing my gray to support Brain Cancer awareness and research. I hope each of you will join us in wearing your gray or your 'BTHO Brain Cancer' t-shirts to support Dad and so many others fighting this battle. I also ask that if you do wear your gray, send me a picture! I would love to see others supporting such an amazing cause during the month, and it never gets old seeing t-shirts and bracelets on others!
I came across an organization which helps to support the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation, and of course I had to be part of it! Please visit their Etsy shop and show your love and support towards Brain Cancer research and awareness this month- https://www.etsy.com/shop/cindysilverlinings.
I often find quotes from cancer survivors that I feel are worded so perfectly that I need to share:
"Going through cancer gives you an opportunity to see what you're made of. I learned I'm made of more confidence, capability and charisma than I ever knew."
Continue supporting Brain Cancer research, research that is saving lives and adding precious time to many of those battling cancer- including my Dad.
Continuing praying and we will continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
My daily devotional is absolutely perfect every single day, and today was no exception:
"You are on the path of My choosing. There is no randomness about your life. Here and Now comprise the coordinates of your daily life. Most people let their moments slip through their fingers, half-lived. They avoid the present by worrying about the future or longing for a better time and place. They forget that they are creatures who are subject to the limitation of time and space. They forget their Creator, who walks with them only in the present.
Every moment is alive with My glorious Presence, to those whose hearts are intimately connected with Mine. As you give yourself more and more to a life of constant communication with Me, you will find that you simply have no time for worry. Thus, you are freed to let My Spirit direct your steps, enabling you to walk along the path of Peace."
"...No randomness about your life." What an amazing concept! People, places, events- nothing in life has been random, all has been part of this perfect plan that God created for me and for my family. Maybe our plan doesn't look perfect, maybe our struggles and fears of the future seem far from the "perfect" life that we all think and hope for, and maybe for you that's true- but for me, my life has been truly perfect. Dad's fight, Dad's determination, and Dad's faith has been so incredibly inspirational- and I know that if anyone can beat the odds, it's going to be him.
The month of May will be filled with our usual ups and downs, highs and lows, and determination to beat this disease. Dad will continue with another round of chemotherapy soon and another Avastin treatment next week. The MRIs and follow up appointments always seem to bring fear and stress into my life, but I know that "as [I] give [myself] more and more to a life of constant communication with [Him], [I] will find that [I] simply have no time for worry." The month of May will also be filled with awareness and hope, as May is Brain Cancer/Tumor Awareness Month.
#MyGrayDay will be tomorrow, and every Friday during May- as I will be wearing my gray to support Brain Cancer awareness and research. I hope each of you will join us in wearing your gray or your 'BTHO Brain Cancer' t-shirts to support Dad and so many others fighting this battle. I also ask that if you do wear your gray, send me a picture! I would love to see others supporting such an amazing cause during the month, and it never gets old seeing t-shirts and bracelets on others!
I came across an organization which helps to support the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation, and of course I had to be part of it! Please visit their Etsy shop and show your love and support towards Brain Cancer research and awareness this month- https://www.etsy.com/shop/cindysilverlinings.
I often find quotes from cancer survivors that I feel are worded so perfectly that I need to share:
"Going through cancer gives you an opportunity to see what you're made of. I learned I'm made of more confidence, capability and charisma than I ever knew."
Continue supporting Brain Cancer research, research that is saving lives and adding precious time to many of those battling cancer- including my Dad.
Continuing praying and we will continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
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