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
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Susie Thank you for your faith, courage and insight which is made even more powerful by your unselfish love and faith in our Risen Lord.
ReplyDeleteWe love you! Mom and Dad Wagner
Hi Susie,
ReplyDeleteLynn shared your blog with us. Awesome story. I need to learn to fill my heart with: "Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass. It's all about learning to dance in the rain".
Thank you for sharing your faith and courage.
Greg Hubert
Anyone can give up, it's the easiest thing in the world to do. But Sue, you hold it together and are an inspiration to all of us who know you. Continue to focus on HIM and HE will guide you.
ReplyDeleteTracy
Sue, So glad you started your blog to share your story. You are an inspiration to all who know you and now you can touch the lives of those who don't know you as well. Your story is absolutley amazing. I can't wait for the day that I get the call you are cancer free! Keep up the fight because if anyone can beat this thing you can! Love ya, Deb
ReplyDeleteI am undergoing chemo and experiencing a lot of anxiety and depression. I need more positive inspiration in my life. Your story brought tears to my eyes. I haven't cried since my diagnosis 10 months ago. I realize now that I can't do this alone anymore. I am going to read the book you suggested and consider opening my heart up to God. I had deep faith as a child but lost it when my mother died when I was 19. Your words reminded me so strongly of her. Thank you for this gift!
ReplyDeleteSUE,i have only known you for a short time,but i can see jesus working in you and through you.I testified in church about you this past sunday.you ministered to 52 people you have never met.your testimony painted a picture of a true soldier of God.When the enemy came in like a flood you did not forget the mission but started reaching out to help and encourage others.That in itself is a miracle,so I fully expect our awesome God to give you the miracle you need.In a society today who says im not my brothers keeper we could use more soldiers like you who bring glory to God by being his hands in a hurting world.Im sure our father is well pleased.TALK ABOUT DANCING IN THE RAIN! Love Laura
ReplyDeleteCancer needs to be fought head-on and that's what you're doing, Sue. I'm thinking of you and keeping you on my "A" top-priority prayer list! Love, Mary J.
ReplyDeleteSue:
ReplyDeleteI am a long time friend of Blake & Gere & knew your husband when he was a young man @ Main St.UMC. I am also a child of God,wife,mother,grandmother,RN(retired)& a 3 time Ca survivor. Recently finished chemo & radiation for uterine sarcoma; following surgery. Prior to that it was breast Ca with bilateral mastectomies. God has blessed you with all that you have mentioned + the faith & good will to witness to others where needed. You & I both know that there has been good days & bad thru all of this but God has held us in the palm of his hand just as he has promised. How I wish I could help you thru this journey young mother. My biggest ball bat is prayer for you & yours as I will always continue to remind people that "God is good...all the time."
Sue, you are such an amazing person. I pray for you and your family, for guidance and strength. So many people love and care for you. Keep the faith. Remember that God is always with you. Lorie Plieninger
ReplyDeleteGod does wonderful things ! I will pray for you
ReplyDeleteYou are the most incredible wife. mother, and friend the world has ever known. Always loving, always trusting, always more concerned with others than yourself. This earth has lost one of its grandest souls.
ReplyDelete