Today marks six weeks since my surgery to remove my cancer. As is expected, I had ups and downs throughout the healing process.
One of the highs has been how well our family, friends, and neighbors cared for us. The leftovers from meals brought, along with the blessing of gift cards has filled the gaps as I rebuild my stamina and cook a few times a week.
Eleven people have given of their time, energy, and for several travel expense, to be here to help Jerry get up in the morning, or get to bed at night. They did a great job trying to take care of me, which I didn’t make easy. And they managed our meals, ran errands, and cleaned the house.
Their presence continues to live on when I find all they did. For example, when I began doing laundry again, I saw the laundry room was cleaned and tidied up. Later I looked up from the car and noticed the garage was better organized. Sometimes when I am looking for a particular kitchen item I think, “Hmmm, if I were ____ where would I have put this?” The scavenger hunt always fills me with smiles and warm memories.
Fun fact: For the three who came from outside of Polk County to help, they traveled a cumulative total of about 9,570 miles! That is humbling.
And there were two more people who offered to come from out of town to help, but all the needs were met!
Our laundry stayed current, and bed sheets changed thanks to three girlfriends who came over to do “the dirty work” when I couldn’t.
Some people served us for just 30-45 minutes. Others stayed for a week or two.
Then there are the scores of people who sent (and continue to send) cards and words of encouragement. In fact, I are receiving so many notes I have to rotate the ones that are up at any given time. Our house isn’t big enough to put them all up at once!
Did I mention Jerry and I feel loved?
I am counting on that love and community to carry me through the next six or eight weeks of radiation. Jerry and I met my radiation oncologist today and feel very confident in her skill and bedside manner. I fact, we learned that the original thought that my cancer was stage 1 proved wrong; it was stage 2. Still, a number to be grateful for. There will be a couple of preliminary weeks of setting up my sessions. Then thirty-one radiation sessions to begin in mid to late February.
If you are reading this, it is likely you are one who prayed for us, or helped, or shared ideas. Thank you. Don’t stop praying! Please journey with me through these next few months until I can say I am a cancer survivor.
Photo Credit: Pixabay Franz 26 AI
You are never far from our thoughts! Never hesitate to let us know how we can support you!
Knowing that is a blessing to us! And I just realized I forgot tomention thanks for those who did the dirtiest of wrok and took care of our trash and recycling!
Joan, My heart, thoughts and prayers are with you. You are so loved! Praying for healing!
Julie, I miss coming by your house for visits. Hopefully it won’t be too long.
Praising God with you for this good news and for the help of His people. Ongoing prayers, for sure! I am glad you and Jerry feel loved because you are!
Amen, Jill. And the prayer is mutual for your healing too!
We continue to be with you both in this journey, even if it’s not physically. Looking to God to encourage, strengthen, and give you peace as He heals and teaches you. Sending hugs…
Anne, I love how the body of Christ allows us to journey together even over the distance. Hugs to you both!
Prayers and thoughts never stop for you two. I know you need the prayers and who knows what Jerry can get in to. I’d appreciate your prayers for me when I go in for my knee replacement on March 5th. Keeping the prayer lines open. Love!
Donna, you’ve needed that knee for a while. Glad you have a date. We’ll be sure to pray for that. Thanks for your prayers for us – you certainly know Jerry well – haha!
❤️🙏❤️
We have such fabulous neighbors!