Has Your Life, Like Mine, Been Turned Upside Down?

My life could not have been more perfect--an inspiring church family, three healthy sons, a wonderful husband and marriage, a collie, a labradoodle, and a beautiful brick home nestled in the woods. Then on November 2008 my life changed completely!
It was a crisp fall day perfect for our favorite hobby--riding the bike trail. The colors were breathtaking--oranges, yellows,reds and more. Laughing and fellowshipping with our close friends Matt and Jennifer made the 40-mile trek pass by quickly. We rode over covered bridges and past deep ravines, awed by the beauty of God's creation.
The next morning I was alarmed to see that I had passed a considerable amount of blood. "Of course it must be an after-effect of such a long bike trip," I reasoned. This reframe provided fleeting relief. But the amount of discharge greatly troubled me. I immediately felt a deep sinking in my stomach. As a registered nurse, I knew that such a symptom required immediate medical evaluation.
Ironically, I had transferred to the colonoscopy unit of my hospital just 10 days earlier. Now I was a patient of Dr. Raman, the man who had just become my boss! After multiple tests I was diagnosed with stage 3 rectal cancer. Then it all started, chemotherapy and radiation for 6 weeks, followed by surgery. Then another 6 months of chemotherapy ending in July.
Just when I felt that I had a new beginning in life, my CT-scan three months following surgery showed a large tumor in my liver. I started back on chemotherapy for 4 months then the chemo stopped working. The following CT-scan showed lung involvement. "My situation couldn't be any worse" I thought to myself. At this time I transferred to James Cancer Hospital in Columbus. I am currently back of chemotherapy and taking a Clinical Trial AMG 706. Its function is to shrink tumors by disrupting the blood supply.
I still do not question God can heal me. Cancer is an roller coaster emotionally and physically. I savor each day with my family and appreciate my blessings. God has given me physical strength and a positive attitude. So many people are praying for me. I can feel God's presence in my life. This is what gives me peace and strength. I am writing this blog to provide fellow cancer patients with hope and support. Just as God will give each one of us hope (Romans 15:13) I trust that you join me in this journey.
If you or someone you love is afflicted with cancer, please invite them to visit this blog. It is my dream that believers and seekers alike can pray, support and given each other practical tips through our journey of cancer. I recently attended a conference on "Hope" in Chicago. I met a woman who was miraculously healed from advanced cancer. For me, I am waiting and praying for complete healing. But, "Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass. It's all about learning to dance in the rain". The book Hear My Cry, has immensely inspired me through this storm in my life. I trust it will be a blessing to you too.

As we read in
Romans 12:12 "Be joyful in hope. Patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer". Susie