Update

Sorry I haven't updated in a while. Lots has happened in the past 4 weeks! First off, surgery was June 2. Per the surgeon, everything went just as planned! They removed 1 1/2 feet of Beth's colon, the tumor and 27 lymph nodes around the tumor and a ful hysterectomy. Also, they did an iliostomy as well. BIG SURGERY!!! Surgery lasted about 6 hours or so. Beth spent 6 days in the hospital. She was excited to come home needless to say! The recovery has been going exceptionally well. I am amazed at how well Beth has done. I even told her recently that I didn't give her enough credit for how she has handled things. She has faced this head on and strong!!! We are ALL very proud of her and her positive attitude!! 10 days after surgery Beth, Kathy, Mackenzie and myself did the Susan B. Koman walk....what an amazing experience. I have done that walk before, but this year it meant so much more to me. It was very emotional. We had Beth in a wheelchair, she felt strong that she wanted to be a part of it and we wanted to back her in this endeavor. Although she is not a "Breast Cancer" survivor, she is a "Cancer" survivor!!!

On June 15th (I believe that was the date), Beth had an appointment to talk to her medical oncologist to get her pathology report back. Several of us went with her to this appointment...we wanted to hear some great news....that is exactly what we got! The Pathology report showed the cancer was contained in the tumor....ONLY!!!! She was also told before surgery she was considered stage 3 cancer, after treatment and before surgery she was considered stage 1 cancer!!! That means prayer and treatment was working! With that being said and the tumor being gone, Beth is CANCER FREE!!!!! The doctor proceeded to tell her that he wanted to give her an "insurance policy"...due to her age he said he would HIGHLY recommend doing a second round of chemo. BUT, the good news in all of this is initially he told her it would be a 6 month round of treatment, he changed that to only 3 months!!! Which of course he has said that from the beginning.

.....SO, that brings us to today. Today, July 1st, as I am typing this blog, right now, Beth is currently at the hospital getting her first round of chemo. This round is pretty aggressive compared to the last round. She has to go to the hospital once every other week for 4 hours while the medicine is being administered. So all in all, she only has 6 times she has to do this. They said she may lose her hair and they said she may have some other side affects, cold sensitivity, fatigue, upset stomach, vomiting. So I am asking, once again, please continue to keep Beth, Al and the kids in your prayers. This disease does not just affect the person it is trying to invade, it affects the family and friends as well. I know how powerful prayer can be...so I say, "Thank you" in advance.

~Mary

Be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Eph. 6:10

Day before surgery

So this long journey has brought us to today. Beth begins her prep for surgery today. She has to be at the hospital bright and early tomorrow at 6:30 am. Surgery is scheduled to begin at 8:30, they expect surgery to last about 4 hours. I will do my best to update the blog when I can, but I will be at the hospital for the day and will be limited on my computer access. So if you would, when you remember Beth, Al or the kids please say a prayer for them. This has been a 6 month ordeal and I know they are all ready to move past this and get on with living a normal, healthy life.

Beth is going to be in the hospital for a minimum of 3 days could be as many as 7 days. As I have mentioned before, my friend Kelli is organizing taking meals to them. To reach Kelli, her number is 314-221-3498. Anything you feel led to do would be appreciated. I know she is planning on taking meals to their house on Sunday (June 6th).

These past few months have been very trying for Beth, Al and our entire family. Such a roller coaster ride. Good days, bad days, horrible days, great days...you name it, she has had it! I am sure there are more roller coaster day rides coming up. So I would ask you to continue to keep her in prayer. I have talked to a couple dear friends in the past couple of days that have felt led to pray for Beth and they both keep telling me that they have complete peace about surgery and the upcoming months. And I too have complete confidence that Beth will be able to say she is "cancer free"! I feel that is a promise and God doesn't go back on his promises. I have a book that has nothing but scriptures in it and the ones I am posting today have to do with healing. These are promises, they are promises that I am believing are directly for Beth. Thanks again for your love, thoughts and again most of all your prayers.....

He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. I Peter 2:24 (NIV)

He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5 (NIV)

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. James 5:16 (NIV)

Surgery - 2 weeks from today

I know it has been a while since my last post...but thankfully nothing has been going on! Until now....Beth is 2 weeks away from surgery. She goes in on Wednesday June 2. Surgery begins at 8:30 a.m. They have said for her to anticipate being in the hospital 5-7 days. About 4-6 weeks for recovery. So the next 2 months we are in BIG need of prayer! Here are the details:

When Beth went to see the surgeon he gave her a LOT to think about.

First off: He told her as a result of the chemo and radiation, her ovaries and uterus are fried. This has sent her into early menopause. She is having hot flashes and all that good stuff. For that reason and the fact that cancer of the uterus and colon cancer are direct relatives, he has recommended she have a complete hysterectomy.

Second: He is giving Beth the choice, he is recommending either complete removal of her colon or removal of a portion of it. He doesn't want the cancer to move into the colon. He said the ONLY way he would be comfortable NOT removing the entire colon would be if he knew for sure that she would be in EVERY 2 years for repeat colonoscopies. He said even 10 years down the road when this is a memory and she is feeling great, she cannot afford to miss one of these tests.

Third: Of course removal of the tumor that is remaining (he was able to tell her at the last appointment that the tumor is shrinking!!!!). He told her by surgery day he expects the tumor to be almost gone, at least that is how I understood it.

So those are the options and this is what Beth is going with.....Of course getting the remaining tumor and all lymph nodes around it out! She is going to go through with the hysterectomy and at this point she will have only a portion of the colon removed. The doctor anticipates surgery lasting a total of 4 hours.

So as you can see, lots of things happening on June 2. I can tell you that Beth is getting anxious (rightly so). So once again, I am asking each of you to keep her in prayer. Pray for Beth, Al and the kids, for peace and no fear. Pray for the surgeons (there will be 2 performing the surgeries) pray for the nurses. Pray that everything go smooth and a quick recovery.

I forgot to mention, 4 weeks after surgery she will begin chemo again. That will happen I believe every other week, for 6 months.

I think that brings everyone completely up to date. I will update with any changes and of course I will update after surgery. As always, thank you seems inadequate for all your faithful prayers, without them, not sure where we would be.

Eternally grateful!!!!!
Mary


Now Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1

That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments. Psalm 78:7

The hope of the righteous shall be gladness. Proverbs 10:28

Surgery date

Last week Beth turned 30!!! We celebrated this past weekend with a surprise party for her. Al did a great job of putting the details together and everyone had a good time.

Beth is feeling good and actually went back to work this past Monday. Due to the fact that she isn't a patient person (but we still love you!) she got her appointment moved up to see the surgeon. She saw him today. Lots of information was given at the appointment. Bottom line, Beth is having surgery on June 2nd. She will have about a 5 day stay in the hospital, give or take. The doctor was able to tell her that the tumor is responding to the meds, which is an answer to prayer!!! He thinks by the time she has surgery it will be even smaller.

They have lots to think about right now and decisions to make, if you could keep them in prayer I know they would appreciate it. If I have more information or if anything changes between now and June 2nd, I will certainly keep everyone up to date. Thanks again for your love and prayers.

I will...guide you along the best pathway for your life; I will advise you and watch your progress. Psalm 32:8

LAST DAY ---TREATEMENT DAY 25

Today was Beth's last treatment. I went with her today along with the kids. Before we went back for her treatment a woman walked into the waiting room and announced "I am done!" she got to ring the bell!!! The hospital has a gold bell in the waiting room and on the last day of treatment when you walk out, you ring the bell. Everyone in the room clapped for her. It was cool to see.

So when they came to get Beth we were all able to go back with her. We got to see the room where they actually administer the radiation, we saw the body mold that Beth lays in daily to receive treatments. It was all pretty interesting. From there me and the kids stepped out during the actual treatment and we were able to watch via a monitor while she was receiving treatment. It was pretty interesting...I don't know what I was expecting, but it wasn't what I envisioned. When she was done, they pressed the intercom button and Avery announced to her "you are done." They asked Beth if she wanted the body mold, she told them she would pass, they could burn it!!!! So then it was our turn...we walked through the waiting room, Beth got to ring the bell. I don't know about her, but I did get a little emotional. I didn't cry, but I was close. So excited to see her get to this point. When we were in the car driving back home Avery asked Beth "is that the last time you ever have to do that for the rest of your life?" I almost cried then too...I just assumed the kids didn't really get it, but they understand far more than they are given credit for. Of course Beth's response was, "I hope so."

As I was driving to work I was replaying the entire morning. I suddenly felt a great peace over me. With EVERYTHING in me I believe Beth is going to be able to say "I am a cancer survivor!" I believe in MIRACLES and I believe a miracle is happening before our eyes.

This will be my last post for a while. I won't be posting daily, unless something unusual happens, but I will for sure post something after her appointment on April 20th. We should have a surgery date then. Again, I thank each and everyone of you for your continued prayers. I can't imagine having gone through all of this without prayer. Thank you!

What a God he is! How perfect in every way! All his promises prove true. Psalm 18:30 (TLB)

Treatment day 24

This time tomorrow I will be posting, Treatment day 25...last day!!!! Hard to believe. Beth has been SUCH a trooper during this process. Sure she has had her days of not feeling well, vomiting, fatigue...all normal things to experience while battling cancer. She has remained positive for the duration of this process. I think we could all say she has done an amazing job. I will be joining her tomorrow at treatment, I am sitting in the waiting room with the kids and we are all going to witness her ringing the bell. It signifies her last radiation treatment. It will be a great day! Thank you for all the prayers during these past 5 weeks, please don't stop!!!! This is just the first 5 weeks, she has more weeks to go with surgery, recovery and more chemo after surgery. But I promise to keep you all updated as we finish this journey. Thanks again..............

These signs will accompany those who believe...they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well. Mark 16:17-18 (NIV)

Treatment day 23

2 more days!!! As excited as I am I KNOW Beth is WAY more excited.

She met with her Oncologist today, she has an appointment on April 20th with the surgeon. THIS IS JUST AN APPOINTMENT, this is NOT the day of surgery. I would assume on the 20th is when they will schedule the surgery. The Oncologist told her it will probably be 2 weeks after the April 20th appointment she will have surgery. Will let you know as soon as we have a date.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

Treatment day 22

Nothing new to report!!! Beth feels good...and there are only 3 MORE TREATMENTS!!! All good news! We went away this past weekend, just the girls. We had a really good time. Although Beth wasn't feeling the greatest it was fun to get away and not have to think about treatments, medicine or doctor appointments. You never really know how much you love your family until you are in a situation like this. There is always good that come out of bad situations...sometimes it can be as simple as realizing just how much you are loved!!! I am thankful for the family and friends God has put in our lives...we are truly blessed!

Someone shared this verse with me tonight...I really liked it...For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Jeremiah 29:11

Treatment day 21

Beth's last week of treatment! It is going to be a great week! On Friday she gets to "ring the bell". At the Siteman Center they have a bell that patients ring when it is their last day of treatment. She is taking the kids with her to have them be a part of this. I think it will be fun for them, to see what mom has been doing for the past 5 weeks. She will be meeting with the surgeon soon to get a date for surgery! She is moving right along...it won't be long before we can say, "Beth is cancer free!!!"



"Have faith in God," Jesus answered. "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. (Mark 11:22-24)

TREATMENT DAY 20

5 treatments to go and counting!!!!!! We are Memphis bound! Planning on enjoying each others company and getting away from all the stress for a while. It is a time to rejuvenate and get rested up! Will report more on Monday. Have a wonderful weekend...I know we will!

A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance. Proverbs 15:13

Treatment day 19

One week and one day to go!!! That is nice to say. We are celebrating this weekend by taking a "girls only" trip. Beth, Trish, Kathy and myself are heading down to Memphis, TN for the weekend. Getting away for a couple of days, spending quality time together, I think that is what is needed by all of us!

Beth is still feeling good...still some annoying side effects, BUT all in all, she is able to deal with it. Hopefully we will have a surgery date and will let everyone know when that will be ASAP!

Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. James 4:10

Treatment day 18

Today has been an interesting day. Beth had her 18th treatment today...7 to go! Something the doctors have talked to her about since the very beginning is that she will have a temporary colostomy bag. Obviously a necessary thing, but still not a fun thing. Especially for someone her age. Today she was having a difficult time with this. It amazes me how much of this battle is a mental battle. Of course the physical is obvious, the mental is just as intense. I do believe the human mind is a powerful thing. Please pray that she has peace about everything coming up in the next few months. Pray that she is given strength, both physically and mental to withstand the rest of this fight. When she can't stand on her own, please pray that people are placed in her path that will say uplifting words and speak words of encouragement. We still have a long road ahead of us, but we are up for the challenge! As always, thank you...

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6)

Treatment day 17

8 days and counting! Please keep Beth in your prayers, she is having some mild side effects, not enough to get her down though!!! She is feeling great, just some annoying side effects. We are planning a girls get away this weekend. A time for all of us to connect and spend some good quality time together. We are all looking forward to it!

By whom also we have access by faith into grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:2

Treatment day 16

Less than 2 weeks to go! Beth is feeling great!!! The one minor issue she is having is where they are doing the radiation she feels like she is sun burnt...a pretty normal thing to happen. She told me this morning she would take that over week one any day! Hard to believe she has made it through to this point. She only has 9 more days of radiation and chemo. A week or so after that she hopes to meet with the surgeon and he will let her know when surgery will be. We are thinking surgery will be somewhere during the month of May...no dates just yet. Keep watching and we will keep you informed!! Thanks~

The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. Proverbs 18:10 (NIV)

Treatment day 15

WOO HOO!!! 3 WEEKS DONE!!!!!!!!!! It has been a GREAT 2 weeks. And just think, only 2 more weeks of this round of treatment! Beth is still feeling great, able to eat, and function like a normal human being...which is great news! She is still on a journey, so please continue to keep her in your prayers.

Until Monday.......here is something to think about....

~ Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?Matthew 6:26 (NIV)

Treatment day 14

Today is another day with no new news. I have to say, I am excited to report NOTHING! I personally want to say how very proud I am of Beth and this ordeal she has been going through. As many of you know, she is not the most patient person, she can be demanding and she likes things to go her way. Since January 22, she hasn't had a lot of control of any of the above! I told her from day one, this is something that will require a great deal of patience. She is learning so much about herself through this process. I think she has learned she is a MUCH stronger person than she ever thought she could be. I think she has learned that is a very LOVED person. I also think she has learned to slow down and enjoy the ride of life. The things that we all take for granted, suddenly seem so important when you are faced with a situation like this. But at the same time she is trying to keep life like normal for her and her family. That takes a great deal of balance. So with that being said, again, Beth we are proud of you and you know without a shadow of a doubt you are loved, you are special and we wouldn't change anything about you!!!

I will praise thee, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvellous are they works; and that my soul knoweth right well. Psalm 139:14

Treatment day 13

BETH HAS MADE IT TO HALF WAY!!!!! These past two weeks have been wonderful in comparison to week one. I talked to Beth late last night (it was about 9:05 pm) which for her lately is SUPER LATE! She was getting ready to hang out with her girlfriend! I was tickled! Normally she is in bed and already asleep but yesterday she felt good and was able to have a "normal" day. She has been feeling really good and we are just praying it stays that way for the duration of these treatments. March 19th is getting closer!!!

Thank you to all of you that have sent cards, gift cards and words of encouragement. Just today she received a beautiful spring bouquet, with some of her favorite flowers and colors. She is truly touched. I keep telling her she is loved!!!

He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Hebrews 13:5 (KJV)

Treatment day 12

Nothing new to report. Tomorrow puts Beth officially half way done with chemo/radiation!!! I know she is pretty excited about that. She is still feeling good, able to eat and keep things down, just still battling with being tired. There is not much they can do to help that. Now that she is not working this gives her time to get treatments done, keep doctor appointments and hopefully get caught up on some rest. She needs to be strong for surgery and after surgery. Sorry nothing more exciting than that, but I have always felt "no news is good news".

Give ear, O Lord, unto my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications. In the day of my trouble I will call upon thee: for thou wilt answer me. Among the gods there is none like unto thee, O Lord; neither are there any works like unto thy works. Psalm 86:6-8

Treatment day 11

We are almost officially at the half way mark! Seems like this journey just started and here we are almost half way finished with treatments. Hard to believe. I was able to have dinner with Beth tonight...that was super nice, we don't get to do that very often! Thanks again for treating ;) Can't wait until we can title our post "Treatment day 25" that will be a great day!

For you shall go out with joy, and be led out with peace; the mountains and the hills shall break forth into singing before you, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Isaiah 55:12

Treatment day 10

We have made it into double digits!!! Beth is close to half way finished with this round of chemo and radiation. If the remaining weeks were like this week...she has it made! The only real complaint from this week is the extreme fatigue. But they told her this would happen. I think with her not working for the duration of these treatments it will certainly help. Next Monday starts week 3!!!! She is moving right along. Will update more next week. Have an incredible weekend!!!

Surely he hath borne Beth's griefs, and carried Beth's sorrows; yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for Beth's transgressions, he was bruised for Beth's iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes Beth is healed!!! Isaiah 53:4-5 (KJV)

Treatment day 9

WOW...Beth is almost finished with 2 weeks of treatment. She is almost on the downhill slope of this first step towards beating this cancer. She is still feeling good but she is also still very tired. Despite how much sleep she gets, she is still tired. It's a mental as well as a physical fight. Fortunately for us, Beth has always been a fighter and I don't see that changing any time soon! Continue to pray for strength and stamina.

I wanted to remind everyone that my friend Kelli is taking calls for anyone who wants to help them out with a meal. So many people have asked what they can do and Kelli has offered to take meals or restaurant gift cards to them. Just a little something to help take some stress out of their daily life. Again, Kelli's number is 314-221-3498 . If you choose to give a gift card some of the restaurants around them are: Imo's Pizza, Steak N Shake, Jack in the Box, Elicias Pizza, Dairy Queen, Applebee's, Uncle Bills Pancake House, El Maguey, Qdoba Grill, IHOP, Denny's, Lee's Chicken, Three Monkey's...just to name a few.

As always, thank you for your love, support and prayers.

Yet amid all these things we are more than conquerors and gain a surpassing victory through Him Who loved us. Romans 8:37 (Amplified Version)

Treatment day 8

Nothing at all new to report today. Although something funny...Beth was telling her doctor about some of the side effects she is having and they are completely opposite of what is "normal". Which I find to be Just like Beth! She has always played to her own drum. That is why we love her!!! She is feeling good, still very tired, so as a result of that this Friday will be her last day of work for a while. She has short term disability available to her and she is going to take it now. With all the doctors appointments coming up and of course with the treatments that is probably the best for all involved. Keep the prayers coming...she did make the remark today that it would be great if they went to do the surgery and there was nothing there...I believe in miracles...It could happen :)

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1

Treatment day 7

Things are still looking good! Some annoying side effects...I think the major one Beth is dealing with right now is fatigue. That is pretty normal, but she is very tired. But she is doing WAY better this week than she was this time last week! That is great news!!!

I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you along, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8 (NIV)

Treatment day 6

Life is good!!! Beth is feeling pretty good. She had a nice relaxing weekend. Spent some time with her husband, family and friends. It was a nice break from driving to the hospital, having to remember to take this pill or that pill. Today she had treatment number 6. We are starting the count down. Her last treatment before surgery will be March 19th. Continue to pray for strength, peace for her and her household.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trails of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith, develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4 (NIV)

Treatment day 5

5 days of treatment...DONE!!! It has been a wild 5 days. It started with great anticipation, then went downhill quickly when Beth got so sick and couldn't eat and couldn't keep anything down. These past 2 days have been much, much better. Her appetite is getting better and she is actually able to eat without it coming back up. A complete answer to prayer!!! Thank you all for sticking with us and supporting Beth and Al as they walk through this journey. It makes the journey easier when you know you have people who love and support you along the way! No treatments on Saturday and Sunday! So, until next week.....

Psalm 121 (The Message)

A Pilgrim Song
1-2 I look up to the mountains; does my strength come from mountains?
No, my strength comes from God,
who made heaven, and earth, and mountains.

3-4 He won't let you stumble,
your Guardian God won't fall asleep.
Not on your life! Israel's
Guardian will never doze or sleep.

5-6 God's your Guardian,
right at your side to protect you—
Shielding you from sunstroke,
sheltering you from moonstroke.

7-8 God guards you from every evil,
he guards your very life.
He guards you when you leave and when you return,
he guards you now, he guards you always.

Treatment day 4

Beth is 4 days into this treatment journey...it has been a long few days, BUT she is one tough cookie and she is finishing the week strong. Still some vomiting, but it seems to be lessening...a complete answer to prayer!!! Today she sounds like a completely different person...it was good to hear :)

I also wanted to make everyone aware, a dear friend of mine from High School has offered to take on a project to help Beth and Al. She is wanting to organize a meal calender for them. I have been inundated with people asking "what can I do or what do they need." She wants to help take some stress off of them during this time. Her name is Kelli and she said to just give her a call and she will take it from there. If you want to help but maybe aren't that great in the kitchen, there are a few restaurants near their house that maybe they can order dinner in or grab something quick. If you prefer to give a gift card. Some of the restaurants near them are AppleBee's, Steak n' Shake, Imo's pizza and Lee's chicken. Beth's wonderful friend Kenya is working on getting us more locations that are near by. We are blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives. Thank you ALL for your love and support. To reach Kelli please call 314-221-3498.



Yet, the strength of those who wait with hope in the LORD will be renewed. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and won't become weary. They will walk and won't grow tired. Isaiah 40:31 (God's word translation)

Day 3 of treatment

Nothing much different from yesterday to report. Beth has made it through 3 radiation treatments. She is still vomiting and not feeling good. One of her doctors put her on another med for nausea. Lets pray this helps! She hasn't been able to eat either. Up until now none of this seemed real. It wasn't until she started taking the medicine and she had to start these daily trips to the hospital...I think it has finally hit how real this is. Please pray for strength for Beth and Al and the kids...please pray that she is encouraged and has joy and peace through this battle.

A friend from the office gave me a note with some scriptures, I keep it on my desk and look at it daily...it reads:

A stronghold in times of trouble, and those who know Your name will put their trust in You. For You, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you. Psalm 9:9-10 (NAS)

Treatment day 2

I have been texting Beth today...She is having a difficult day. She has been vomiting and not able to take her chemo pills today...although she has been trying. Please take a quick second to say a little prayer for her...you don't have to know Beth for your prayers to be effective! Thank you!!!

Be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Eph. 6:10

Day 1 of treatment....

Just talked to Beth a little bit ago, she has her first radiation treatment under her belt! Just 24 more to go!!! She started the chemo today as well. She told me earlier she was already starting to feel a bit of "tingling" in her hands and feet. They did say that was a side affect. She sounded like she was in good spirits. Will keep everyone posted as we go!

~Mary

Treatment starts

So today is the day!!! Treatment starts today. Late last week Beth received her chemo medicine, she starts taking that today. Not sure if I mentioned this or not, but her chemo is pill form. She also goes today for her first radiation treatment. I talked to her last night to see how she was and she is nervous. I think the "unknown" is always a scary thing for everyone. Please pray that she is filled with Peace and fear has to leave her! Another prayer request is that she does not have the harsh side affects. Will let you know how things go today!

Isaiah 41:10 Fear not (there is nothing to fear), for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My (victorious) right hand of rightness and justice. (Amplified version)

Nothing new

Well, nothing exciting has happened these past few days. With the exception of Beth coming down with something. We hope it is nothing more than a 24 hour thing and she gets over it soon!

I thought I would post a few pictures of Beth, for those of you who don't know her. Beth is married to Al, they have 3 kids, Austin, Ali, Avery. So when you are praying for Beth, please pray for the rest of them as well ;) Remember, treatments start on Monday Feb. 15. We are ready to get to this and kick some cancer butt!!!








I Peter 2:24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. KJV

New Adventures - Background information

This blog was set up to keep family and friends updated on what is going on with Beth. There are SO many of you that have sent texts, emails, voice mails and facebook. We felt this would be the easiest way to update everyone so we don't miss anyone or leave someone out. We will update with news and progress when we have it. In the meantime, we appreciate and welcome all prayers and we thank you in advance for them!!!




So these past couple of weeks have proven to be interesting. It all started on January 22, actually it started much earlier than that, but we will begin this adventure on January 22, 2010. Beth (my sister) went to the doctor to have a colonoscopy done. They were doing tests to see exactly what was going on inside of her. She had been having some symptoms that were puzzling her doctor. She wanted to rule out Crohns disease. So as a result, she had a colonoscopy done.

Al (Beth's husband) sent me a text to let me know she was done and was in recovery. He said he would have her call me when they were getting ready to leave. I was at work waiting for the call....little did I know it would be a call that would change our lives.

I guess it was around 12:30 or so that Friday afternoon that finally my phone rang. I could see it was Beth, my friend had just walked into my office and I remember saying "oh, that's Beth, she is leaving her test". I picked up the phone to hear Beth sobbing. I said "what is wrong", she said "Mary, I have bad news...it is cancer." It was like a scene from a movie. I slowly sat down in my chair and I said "Cancer? Are you sure?" The doctor told her they could tell from the colonoscopy that there was a tumor and it was cancerous. I know the emotions that I was experiencing, I can't begin to imagine the emotions Beth was. My thoughts were racing. I have heard those words all too many times in my life....The first time I heard them I was about 9 years old. My mom was pregnant with Beth at the time and she learned she (my mom) had an inoperable brain tumor. So when we hear those words, they don't bring back the best of memories. Needless to say, we have been on a roller coaster of emotions. Doctors appointments, a variety of tests, more doctor appointments, more tests. Final diagnosis...stage 3B rectal cancer.

That brings us to today! Here we are, nearly 3 weeks after the diagnosis and Beth is starting treatment on Monday, February 15th. The course of action...first they are doing radiation and chemotherapy. This will happen every Monday through Friday for 5 weeks. Then approximately 4 weeks after that, they will do surgery to remove the tumor. They will follow up with chemo after surgery, we just don't have any exact dates as of yet.

As a family, again, we thank you for your thoughts and your prayers...keep them coming.

Thanks~
Mary Geers

I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24 (NIV)