My goal was to do weekly updates, however, I have found in a house of eleven children one seldom has time to use the bathroom. At this moment, I am sitting in the schoolroom with my niece as she tackles the joys of fractions. The rest of the “sweet cherubs” are outside playing. The screams and frustrated voices mixed with laughter lets me know they are still alive and have far too much energy to return indoors. I cherish these moments when I can breathe and pause to recall the past week – full of its ups and downs.
School started with chaos, but over the course of the week I learned what subjects are to be covered and the children learned to settle back into routine. To sum up the week: We all survived! I drove the big “bus” for the first time and did not run over anything in my travels. I have learned that at thirty-eight, one cannot simply go sledding over a jump and land softly. Things rattle and bruise and leave you wanting to wrap yourself in pillows before heading down again. I am becoming a pro rabbit wrangler and egg sorter. And as any wonderful aunt would do, I may have taken a little too much pleasure in the reactions that came from me pretending that a dead chicken came alive in the garbage bag I was carrying. (Yes my mind is a scary place). I have spent nights cooking, cleaning, planning and marking schoolwork. There have been late night chats with my niece and bedtime hugs and kisses from the rest. I have also seen the wonder and amazement in little faces as we have prayed and seen God answer. It may have been for snow and it may have been that their momma could visit us in the schoolroom, but in the eyes of a child these are great things! They were actually a great encouragement and reminder to myself – He is still God even in the small things!
After visiting the oncologist last week, Sister’s cancer has spread to her bones. The cancer is estrogen related, therefore, it can be stopped from producing more. Good news! The doctor’s do not talk cure, but also do not give a time frame as many women have lived a long time with such stage 4 cancer. Good news! Her liver is in pretty bad shape so they can only give smaller doses of treatment as the liver cannot process normally yet. Once the size reduces and the liver looks healthier, surgery will be done. Things will be re-evaluated then. Chemo has already started. Good news! Sister is feeling stronger each day and is looking more like herself. Super fantastic news! Just the other day they were given a vehicle to use for medical appointments (more economical than the bus and leaves transportation for kiddos if needed). Thank you! Huge answer to prayer! They have also been surrounded by such a great support system…family really.
Although there are so many unknowns, we have all been extremely encouraged this past week. We still shed tears at times, but we feel our spirits have renewed hope. We continue to pray for complete healing…a miracle (the long-term big picture). Right now – today – we pray for strength; for a trust and a faith that is rooted deep. Eyes that are opened to see the small things and learn through the journey; joy in the moment.
Joy is the practice of breathing in God’s presence. ~Ann Voskamp~
Dear Mrs. Pastor , I so look forward to your entries as I cannot be there at this time . I pray for you all , there is so much pain in my heart & I pray for God’s healing for us all , miracles do happen I am told Love to you all & please hug Mel for me & tell her I love her . Let me know when it is okay to visit . Love Granny H
Feeling so Grateful and Blessed to read this update. Praying for you, your sister and family. I sure miss you!
Your Dad would be so proud of you for what you are doing for your sister.I know it isn’t easy caring for that many and Mel makes it seem easy. I use to do daycare for 15 in my house when I was much younger. Lol I believe you are doing a great job and those kids love you. We are all praying for all of you. <3 Aunt Marilyn
Thank you for being there, Julie. Hugs from one auntie to another 💗
I don’t know if you knew this or not but Mel’s cancer is the same one I had , estrogen dependent , it strikes fear in the best of us ! I had a lot of stuff removed & treatment ( drugs ) afterwards . They said it was between stage 3 & 4 . I was on drugs for 6 or 7 years after . Things were different back then so I was lucky to have the out come I did . I was in Princess Margaret for over 2 months & they trucked us up to Sunnybrook every day for our treatment ! It was taxing to say the least but I am still here . I often wonder why God saved me but here I am ! I was told I was not cured just in Remission & so far I still am in remission ! It is good for the family that Mel can be at home to be with the kids , I am sure it is more reassuring for them . Our whole church family is praying for them & those who are caring for them . Hope I haven’t said too much ?
Much love to you Julie !!!
No, Grandma, you never say too much. Your words are an encouragement. You would be welcome here anytime. xo
Our parish nurse was here to visit me today & she told me about all the groups in our church that are praying for Mel & the family. I am so grateful for them all Mrs . Pastor . They seem to be worried about me I am not doing very well . I just lost the love of my life & it’s not easy to get over if ever . If I am talking too much please tell me & I’ll stop I am so desperate without Sir J’s ! They don’t come any better than him
I am trying to pick up my knitting but it’s hard work. I will let you off now