We Were Made to Thrive, Not Just Survive

To My Amazing Family & Dear Friends,

First, I just wanted to thank all of you for praying.  God is answering your prayers.  It really does work, and I appreciate it.

Second, On Wednesday I went to another oncologist appointment.  So different than the last.  She was informative, supportive and very personable.

 After talking about the kind of cancer that I have and talking about the treatment options.  I still don’t know what kind of treatment I will have until I see the surgeon on this Wednesday. 

So far what I understand is that chemo most likely will be used first to shrink the cancer since the tumor is 5.5 cm and not sure that they would get clean margins operating on such a large mass.

 I talked to a Radiologist yesterday (thanks Rebecca) who told me that they have seen chemo shrink the entire tumor to nothing.  But, treatment could last up to 1 year.

This coming Wednesday I go to the surgeon to discuss his opinion on my treatment plan.  In my heart I would like to pursue chemo and hold off on the surgery. 

I am also changing my diet to a more whole foods approach and am starting to juice.  This has helped some people with cancer.  Even if it doesn’t shrink the tumor I will be stronger for chemo.

Third, I’m encouraged, not sad, or fearful.  I’m learning to just rest, be patient. There’s not much more I can do except keep learning about breast cancer so that I will have as much input into my treatment as possible. 

With all the reading and research, I feel as though I just signed up for a 5-unit crash course.  Thank you, Linda, for the book on Breast Cancer Treatment. Sent all the way from Las Vegas. I really appreciate it.

On a personal note.  I have been reading through Judges, in the Bible, I’ve been encouraged to see how God works and who he uses.  

These are stories of just ordinary people, some courageous, some timid, but how God still used them to accomplish his will. God delivered his people when they cried out again and again.  He's the God of heavens armies and He is for us.

  

I just wanted to keep singing so, I  kept listening and another song came up by Casting Crowns

...."We were made for so much more than ordinary lives, we were made to thrive"..

This really spoke to me.  God's desire for my life is not just about surviving but about thriving.  So, I coined the word, thrivior 😊  Yes, it’s silly but makes a point.

I really don’t just want to survive, I want to thrive on this journey.  I don’t know how it will all end up, if I will lose my hair, how chemo will affect me, if I need surgery, or even if the cancer will come back. 

But, I do know that God will meet me, He will fill my reservoir, He will carry me through.  Knowing him personally, giving me a right perspective, strength for the moment, peace that passes understanding and joy unspeakable.

That’s thriving!