Blessed!

Towards the end of last week the reality of what we are facing began to seep in.  It was last Thursday when Tony and I made the early morning trek to the hospital for my pre-op blood work, CT scan and chest x-ray.  We had to be there at 7 am, so it felt like a trial run for "the big day".   This event sparked my first sense of worry and doubt, just a little crack in the strong sense of peace that I have been blessed with since hearing my diagnosis 2 weeks ago.  Luckily it didn't last long, but I have had moments of concern.  Strangely, I was worried about attending church yesterday and returning to work today- how will people react?  Am I going to be able to handle the questions? The awkward silence when people don't know what to say?  Will they pity me?   I think I was worried that stepping out there with my new identity as “cancer patient” somehow makes it all more real.   

God certainly is good.  He used this uncertainty to remind me, again, that He is with me and will give me all that I need to make this journey.  I was overwhelmed by the genuine love and concern and truly tangibly felt the Holy Spirit lifting me up through the prayers of my brothers and sisters in Christ at church yesterday.  Despite the overwhelming task of getting everything organized at work to be gone for 4 to 6 weeks, (those who know me well, know how huge of a task this is!)  I awoke this morning, free from the anxiety I expected, energized to take on the day.  I was blessed by an outpouring of compassion, encouragement and support from so many in my LISD family.  All day long I could literally feel the strength from all of the prayers that have been offered on my behalf.   

I can’t thank my team enough for the care basket packed full of anything and everything one could need while in the hospital - I love my new fuzzy blanket, monkey slippers, treats, journal and so much more!  I’ve decided to wear my wonderful, pink t-shirt covered with the names of my ITS team to the hospital tomorrow.  The emails, phone calls and text messages from so many have touched my heart and lifted me up more than any of you could know.  I feel great strength and so much peace from this outpouring.  I am so humbled and honored to be the beneficiary of such an outpouring and raise all of it to God in thankfulness for His grace. 

I am sure that the power of all your prayers will carry me through tomorrow’s surgery, will touch the surgeons and the nurses and will help provide me the strength that I need to begin healing.  May God be with each of you and bless you as you have blessed us!