The Ladybug: 17 Months (3/5/3015)

Last week, in the midst of feeling frustrated, upset and just down about Dad's battle, something caught my eye. A ladybug. 

It was chemo week for Dad. Which means each night he takes those dreaded pills and heads to bed, praying the side effects of the chemo won't show their ugly face. Although last week, the side effects were coming in loud and clear. 

Dad hides the pain and frustration so incredibly well, although I can see right through his response of "I'm fine." He's in pain. He's feeling weak, tired and not well, and that all continues to break my heart. 

As I was getting ready for bed, I heard a buzz by my ear and turned to see a ladybug sitting on the wall. I thought this was a bit strange, as I'm pretty sure ladybugs aren't just everywhere in the winter, but sure enough, there one was. I'm such a big believer in signs and messages from others who have passed- call me crazy if you'd like, but they seem to come exactly when I need them, and they continue to bring me great comfort. 

I immediately Googled the meaning behind a ladybug, as I've always heard different things- ranging from bringing good luck, to bringing love, or meaning a loved one is thinking of you. But the first link I clicked on read:
"This tiny little beetle brings with it a powerful message. Because the life cycle of the adult ladybug is short it teaches us how to release worries and enjoy our lives to the fullest. When it appears in our life it is telling us to 'let go and let God.' Seen often as a messenger of promise, the ladybug reconnects us with the joy of living. Fear and joy can not co-exist. We need to release our fears and return to love. Ladybug teaches us how to restore our trust and faith in the great spirit. When the ladybug appears, it is telling us to get our of our own way and allow the great spirit to enter into our lives."

And then of course I pull out my devotional for the day and read:
"I am leading you, step by step, through your life. Hold My hand in trusting dependence, letting Me guide you through the day. Your future looks uncertain and feels flimsy- even precarious. That is how it should be...Whenever you find yourself worrying about the future, repeat and return to Me. I will show you the next step forward, and the one after that, and the one after that. Relax and enjoy the journey in My Presence, trust Me to open up the way before you as you go."

So call me crazy, but I find so much comfort in the things that seem to be coincidence in life. I mean, I've always read that coincidence is just God's way of remaining anonymous.

Today marks 17 months on our journey against brain cancer, and Mom and Dad's 32nd wedding anniversary. To say these two have lived up to their vows would be an understatement, as I've been able to witness first hand their love and support for one another through better or for worse, and in sickness and in health. They continue to inspire me each and every day!

The treatments continue for Dad, yes even 17 months out and after a good MRI, we still take chemo and Avastin. This will continue for some time, as that is just the nature of this beast we are fighting. But we continue to fight each day, some days better than others, but each day a true gift. 

We've currently raised $3,385 and have 75 members on our team for the upcoming 'Run For The Rose'. Our hearts are so incredibly full! Thank you all for your continued love and support on our journey. There is still time to join our team, make a donation or purchase a "Team Lar" t-shirt. Please visit the link below, or email me (glenzwhitney@gmail.com) with any questions you may have. 

http://runfortherose.racepartner.com/run-for-the-rose/bthobraincancer

Continue the prayers, as we continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!