Saturday, February 18, 2012

A little Soul Bearing



I've been needing to share something with you that is a little, let's say; unfortunate (you know, I write the word unfortunate and that's all I can come up with?). I don't want to approach this topic too lightly but at the same time I feel apprehensive 'putting it all out there'. When I started this blog, I use it as a way to share creative ideas, tutorials, crafting and decorating...rarely do I go any deeper and if I do, it's not about the bad stuff. I do consider it a flaw in my writing but I'm not a heart on her sleeve kind of gal. It's just not in my nature, I tend to hide my insecurities and minimize the situations I'm going through. I'm pretty inept at sharing everything. I rationalize this by saying things like "Someone is going through something worse than me (I know there is!)" or trying to put on my 'game face' and usually I think who wants to read anything other than the aforementioned topics anyway? I created a mental line where I put my creative self out there and keep the problem self here at home. I know that's not the 'right' way to do it, but I am a Gemini after all.

But I am going to do it, I am going to stretch my personality.



Several months ago, ten to be exact, many of you know, I underwent surgery to remove a tumor that had grown on my adrenal gland. In the beginning, the doctor didn't believe it was cancer. Adrenal cancer has a habit of attaching itself to the adrenal gland, the liver, the spleen, any of surrounding organs but my tumor was only attach to the gland. So because it was 'contained' they didn't think it was cancer. I went through the surgery with a happy (though scared) heart thinking that I would eventually be myself again. Once I was in surgery, the tumor was much larger than anticipated and was also attached to the celiac artery. So even though my diagnosis changed to Adrenal Cortical cancer, I still felt relieved that we were able to get the whole tumor and repair the artery.

I was in pain, but I was happy.


The recovery time took longer than I thought. I was naive to think I was going to be over it in a week or so... and yes, I read all the booklets and pamphlets they gave me about surgery, and nothing prepared me for what I went through. I had absolutely no idea. Thank God for a strong family support that helped me through it and helped take care of my children. I went to doctor appointments every two weeks and further out, once a month. I started seeing an oncologist, to keep an eye on the tumor site and if anything else developed. I was getting cat scans every month. Month, by month, I kept getting stronger and stronger and most of the problems that I had prior to surgery were better. A couple of months ago, the cat scan revealed two nodules on my lungs. They were small and we decided to just keep an eye on them. This past monthly cat scan, revealed the nodules on my lungs were bigger and two more appeared on my liver, and one on my breast. So even though the tumor had been 'contained' because it was attached to the celiac artery, the cancer cells travelled. Needless to say it was not the news we wanted to hear.


And here we are today, I am paralyzed with fear and feel positively depressed. Spontaneous tears flow, and I am merely existing right now.

I am trying to work through the depression and I hope by getting this 'off my chest' it will help.


So what is the plan? The doctors in St. Louis feel they've done all they can and have given my case to the National Cancer Institute. I have an appointment in Bethesda, MD on Wednesday....coming next week on the 22nd. There are doctors that specialize in adrenal cancer and depending on what all happens (at the appointment) I will most likely begin chemotherapy and later an experimental drug. My MIL is going with me and my sister is driving up from NC so I will have lots of support.

I am trying to pull it together, give it to God and hold my head high, and I'm looking forward to seeing what the new doctors have to say.



I'd love your prayers.


145 comments:

  1. I've only a short time ago been an avid follower of your blog Michelle. But I do like it and when I read this story, well, it resonated with me. I've had many family members with cancer. And I just want you to know, from one Gemini to another, it is not a bad thing to bare all and tell us what is going on. It's a good thing. And I want you to know that you can get through this. I've seen miraculous things with cancer patients in the past few years. So I wish you much support and prayer on your journey this next week. I'll be thinking about you. And I'll pray for you so that it go well. Just remember it's ok to be low during the lows and it's ok to be high during the highs. And everything in between is ok too. We only get this one life so we have to make the best of it. I nearly lost my life over ten years ago. And God gave me a second chance. Carol

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  2. Praying that you will receive great help at Bethesda. I am glad to hear that you have a good support system. We Gemini seem to think that we can do it all, on our own terms. I know it well. Praying that God will heal you with the new doctors' wisdom.
    Beckie in Brentwood, TN

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  3. I will definitely keep you in my thoughts and prayers, Michelle!

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  4. Wishing you better news as you continue the journey. Hoping you find the strength to keep fighting. Sending best, positive thoughts.

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  5. Michelle,
    I have so wanted to say something to you, and even asked your sister for your address b/c I wanted to send you a card or "something" - but didn't know what to say or where to begin. I know you are strong, you have already been through so much. I have been praying for you, and I added your name to my local prayer chain. I made an anonymous request on my blog that others bloggers pray for you, as well. I am glad you shared this, b/c even though I have known - I also know your followers would want to know as well. Stay strong, dear Lady. I will get updates from your sister, and you when you feel like it. Hugs and Blessings, Barb

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  6. I'll be praying for you Michelle! I pray that God will grant you a peace that passeth all understanding and a strength not of your own to get you through this difficult time! Thank you for sharing your struggle with your health right now so that people can pray for you and be a comfort! God bless you in your trip and in seeing these new doctors. Please keep us updated when you're able.
    Philippians 4:6-9
    ~ Jamie

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  7. Michelle...you are in my thoughts and prayers. Lighting a candle for you this week too. I know that fear, I was 13 when diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Had chemo and several subsequent surgeries, the last being when I was 25. I just turned 50 in November. The power of prayer is incredible. I will also have my children pray for you too...I understand that God hears the prayers of children first.

    Believe me when I say that you are so much stronger than you know.

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  8. I stumbled across your blog some time ago and have been an active follower since. Even though I do not personally know you I am very saddened to hear this news. I will be praying for you and wish lots of strength for you as you travel to see these new doctors. I pray the doctors have lots of wisdom and bring you healing for everything you have been diagnosed with. I wish you peace and comfort during these times of uncertainty and the "what ifs". God is with you and knows everything you are feeling. -Sara

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  9. Thoughts and prayers are with you Michelle. So very sorry that this challenge has come your way but from what little time I've been following you, you are strong. You will find the strength even when life seems impossible. Thank you for sharing your story so others know they arent the only ones who have suffered the effects of cancer.

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  10. Girl, you have my prayers. I'm so sorry to hear this news, but I pray that all will be ok.

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  11. Michelle, we will be praying for a complete healing for you. You are such a strong woman!

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  12. You know what I love about this whole blogosphere? That people who don't personally know each other can connect and care and offer kindness and support. I've been on a breast cancer roller coaster with a close friend and I know from watching her and going down this long path with her that attitude makes all the difference. Stay positive. Surround yourself with positive people. Cry and scream when you need to. Laugh whenever possible and remember, miracles happen. My prayers now include you.

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  13. wow, michelle. you've got my prayers and then some. thinking of you and your family.

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  14. I'm so very sorry for your unimaginable news. You and your will be in my prayers. Stay positive and I wish you much strength.
    Maureen

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  15. Michelle, I am so, so, so sorry to hear about the new nodules. I know this isn't the news anybody wanted to hear and YES, I will be praying.

    I never wanted to be a cancer blogger, either, but since thyroid cancer became a part of my life 8 years ago, it became part of my blogging life, too. But, it seems that bearing your heart is good for your soul and for other souls as well. The Lord can use all things for His glory and honor. I've connected with many wonderful, supportive women through blogging that have helped on my life's path.

    Praying for the new doctors, as well.

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  16. You've blessed and inspired me more times than I can count - it would be an honor to pray for you as you get through this season of your life.

    Blessings,
    Liz

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  17. Michelle,
    I'm so sorry to hear this news and you are in my thoughts and prayers.

    Blessing to you and your family.

    Tricia

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  18. Wow, I don't blame you, that is a lot to take in. My heart, thoughts and prayers are with you. Please feel free to share any time you want. We are here for you. Big hugs, and prayers. Marty

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  19. Michelle,

    I admire you for being vulnerable. It takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Please keep us posted. You're going to have great doctors, and there are new strides made every single day with cancer.

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  20. Though I'm not there in person - my spirit, my fight, my prayers and my love are there with you. Today, Wednesday... and all of the days ahead of you.

    robelyn

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  21. Sending so many prayers your way. Please keep us posted as we all love you here in the blogging community. My heart goes out to you as do my thoughts and prayers...

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  22. I am a new follower of your blog, Michelle, but please know you have my prayers. God bless.
    Tracey

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  23. I don't know what led me here tonight...well, yes I do, there is always a plan in the heavens. My mother had the same cancer with mets to her lungs. She didn't have chemo or radiation as they felt it was not necessary due to her other medical issues. She did have the tumour removed and recovered from that quite well. I guess I tell you this so that you will not feel so alone. It's an odd cancer and I can just imagine how scared you are. I am praying for you and your family, for strength and comfort, courage and grace. That's the great thing about the blog world...a stranger can stop by and lift you in prayer. take care dear one.

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  24. More thoughts and prayers from a long-time follower and admirer of your work and blog.

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  25. I am so sorry to hear this news and I just want you to know that I will be praying for you. The Lord will take care of you and I pray that you will feel his presence in this difficult time. I'm glad that you have family to lean on.

    God Bless,
    (hugs)
    Aledia

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  26. OH Michelle lots of thoughts and prayers are with you. I know it's very hard to put yourself out there and let everyone in on what's really going on in your life but I hope it helps. I am just like you I really don't let anyone know what's going on with me really. I am having health issues myself and just recently let people in on what was going on with me and it felt good to just get it out (my problem is no way even close to yours). God bless you and your family, your doctors and the road you are on.

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  27. Oh Michelle!
    You are SO SO in my prayers! Please know that there are so many people that love you and are praying for you!!

    xoxo
    Mandi

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  28. I'm so so sorry. I don't mention it often but I'm a cancer survivor (Hodgkin's lymphoma) so I have some sense of the shock and depression that follow a cancer diagnosis but to hear those words and that things aren't progressing the right way have to be so terrifying. I hope the NCI is able to have new insight on your disease and the treatment works. You'll be in my prayers. Good luck this week.

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  29. I am saying a prayer for you right now! And will continue to pray! Hang in there sweetie!

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  30. Michelle, I'm sending you all my best wishes from Australia. I will be thinking of you on Wednesday and I hope there are some positive outcomes for you. I'm sure that sharing your fear with your friends will help you greatly.
    Suzyq

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  31. Dear Michelle, I will pray for you every day; for your healing, for your family, for the doctors who will treat you...
    Diane

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  32. you will be in my thoughts and prayers and may God be with you and all your loved ones......

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  33. Thank you for sharing your story and letting us help care for you in spirit. You are in my prayers.
    Hang in there!

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  34. Michelle, while I don't always comment, I'm always reading. I want you to know my prayers will be joining the others for you, your family, and your medical team.
    Jeremiah 29:11-13
    Debbie

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  35. Thank you for opening your heart and sharing with all of us Michelle. Hopefully doing so will allow those who know you, very well or like me, from afar, to take a little of the burden away and allow you to know that we all will be sending you good, healing thoughts and will keep you and yours in our prayers. Take good care, Stephanie

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  36. Michelle- I've been following your blog for a bit now. I think you are very talented and use many of your ideas as inspiration in my home. You will be in my thoughts. I wish you only good things and hope that you get some encouraging news this week. Best, Lisa B

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  37. Crying and lifting you up to the Father in prayer. May He wrap you and in His loving arms and feel His comfort like never before.

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  38. Michelle, I am so very sorry to hear this, I too am very reluctant to share personal things but I'm so glad you did because now you have so many of us praying for you and I really truly believe that prayer works.

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  39. Prayers of healing and comfort are being raised up for you. Stay strong.

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  40. Michelle, I am lifting you up to our merciful Heavenly Father right now. I pray that you will respond well to the treatment. Talking about your situation is allowing other believers to join together in prayer on your behalf, and there is power in pray, girl.
    God Bless
    Rhonda

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  41. Michelle, I will be praying for you as you face these difficult days. My heart hurts for you & your family...I can't imagine the fear & worry you must be feeling. Lean on God & those around you that love you. I am sure you are much stronger than you feel...this is just a hard way to figure that out. I have thought of you often this week as I was working on my pedestals following your tutorial....they turned out great thanks to you. Please keep us posts on how things go for you. And I also say Jeremiah 29:11...this verse has helped me through so many difficult days.

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  42. You are very brave to put it all out there, very plainly. You are in my prayers as well.

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  43. There are a lot of prayers going up for you...mine, included.
    God bless...

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  44. I am praying for you and your family. May all the healing spirits be with you.

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  45. You are stronger than you realize!! I love your blog, you are so creative :-). I am praying for you....Dear Papa God please hold Michelle and her family tight in your arms. Give them strength and peace beyond their understanding. Father heal Michelle's body completely!!!! I speak to every cancer cell in your body and say be gone in the name a JESUS! I pray for a miraculous outcome and that the Doctor's will be speechless by her complete healing as if cancer has never been in your body!! Amen ;-)

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  46. Father in Heaven, I come before you on behalf of a sweet sister of the faith asking that you might fill her heart with comfort and peace during this time. I pray that you would give her doctors wisdom, her caregivers compassion and her and her family hope. We know that there is nothing too hard for you so we cling to and believe in that. You are the Great Physician and we pray that you will do a great and mighty work in her and through that you might receive the glory. I pray this in the name of your Son, Amen.

    Hugs, Michelle,

    Barbara

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  47. I am so sorry to hear this. I know that God will see you through it, and I pray that he will support you with clouds of peace as you travel this path, giving comfort and support to your family as well. God bless you for sharing your gifts and talents with us, and now your heart.

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  48. Praying for you and your family. Thank you for sharing so much of you. Sending you a virtual hug.

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  49. Thank you for sharing your story with us, Michelle. I prefer blogs that not only show the fun projects and lovely rooms, but ones that also share real life when it happens. I have actually made a real friendship from one blogger that responded to an email I sent her during a crisis in her life. I read your blog daily and think you are so talented. I am heart sick to hear you are having such a rough time. Please, don't be afraid to share with your blogging friends. Let us help support you, even though you seem to have loving family also. You will be in my thoughts and prayers! "Letting it out" will help keep your stress levels down some, so let it out!

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  50. Thanks for being real....and I'll be praying. I was diagnosed with esophageal cancer last year. I was in shock, denial, then greiving after finding out I had to have surgery to save my life. The surgery consisted of removing my voice box, removing part of my esophagus and taking skin from my wrist to make a new esophagus. I also went thru chemo for 4 weeks...24/7. The reason I'm telling you this? I know what you'll be going thru. Can I give some advice? When people offer help, take it. When you find a combination of drugs that help get thru chemo, tell the nurse what works. And ask the nurse to help find the right combo if you're having discomfort or pain. Take the nausea medicine before you need it.....before!!! Don't loose your sense of humor. Keep your bible handy. Take your favorite hand lotion and lip balm. Take your favorite nightgown, pictures of your kids and family. Hang the pics in your room if possible. Again, I'll be praying for a speedy recovery. God knew you before you were born and knew that you would be going thru this journey. Blessings my friend.

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  51. Michelle, You have given your followers so much joy and inspiration by generously sharing your many talents with all of us. I too will be praying for your well-being in the days ahead. Please know that many, many loving thoughts are with you and your family...

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  52. You are in my thoughts and my prayers. I cannot begin to understand all that you are going through...but be strong and have faith. HUGS

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  53. Bless your heart. We will keep you in our prayers.

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  54. Thank you for sharing so I can pray for you. I am so so sorry . I will pray for comfort, peace, strength, and healing.

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  55. You can count on my prayers in your name!! Best wishes.

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  56. Praying for you right now!! kathy at OlsonsforChrist@msn.com

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  57. Dearest, beautiful, creative, sharing, lovely Michelle...such amazing outpouring of love coming your way from all your followers...well-deserved, I might add. My significant other was diagnosed with prostate cancer ten years ago, so I have a tiny inkling of what you might be going through. I wish I could reach through this computer screen to give you a giant hug...my prayers, you have. It sounds like you're in good hands, and Mindy's advice (above) is excellent...do listen to her. Thanks for sharing your story...we love you. -HUGS, Eniko

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  58. Sweet Michelle, I am praying for you.

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  59. You've got our prayers, our love, our support, anything we can possibly give. Thank you so much for sharing your story so we can send our support and positive energy your way! Please take very good care of yourself, and we want to know how you are doing, even if you want to share that you're having a bad day. We'll be waiting also to hear about the miracle of your healing! xoxoxoxo Andrea

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  60. You are in my thoughts and prayers!

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  61. Michelle, I am praying for you! Kelly

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  62. I just started reading your blog and am a new subscriber. I am glad that you shared your situation so that I can pray for you and your family.
    May the LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Numbers 6: 24

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  63. Michelle,
    I think its good to open up and tell. You can draw strength from your friends, family and most of all GOD. We appreciate your kind heart. We will be praying for you and thinking of you.

    Blessings,
    Debby

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  64. Prayers coming from Pennsylvania!!!

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  65. Michelle, I will DEFINITELY be praying for you! You are a very strong woman and you will be able to handle this. Please know that I am thinking of you and sending many prayers of strength and healing your way!

    You may already be a follower of this blog, but I wanted to tell you of a very inspiring blogger named Ashley who is going through a similar situation right now. I am always amazed at her strength and positive attitude despite all she is facing. It may be helpful to you to read her blog, or maybe even contact her. I don't know her personally, but she seems like such a warm, caring person. Her blog is www.lilblueboo.com.

    Big (((HUGS))) to you!!!! Please update us about your treatments!

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  66. So sorry to hear about what you are going through right now. I can tell you this though...from your blog, you seem to be a positive, driven and ambitious person. You inspire people everyday...you've inspired me with your blog. I really look forward to your posts. Don't let anything bring you down. Stay positive and hopefully that you will have a full recovery. Have faith in God and in the power of prayer. I wish you all the best, and I'm praying for you!

    Gina

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  67. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Lots of love and {{{hugs}}}

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  68. I am so sorry to hear this. I love your blog and will keep you and your family in my prayers. I know God hears and answers prayers. May he comfort you during this scary time.

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  69. sending love and prayers to you

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  70. I am praying! God hears and knows your every cry!

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  71. I wish you the very best and of course will be praying for you.

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  72. Dear Michelle thank you for sharing a very personal piece of you with all of us, may the prayers, thoughts and love of many help you through this uncertain time. God bless you and your family.

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  73. I want you to know that you're in my thoughts. I'm sending all the good ju-ju your way. I wish for you a very speedy and full recovery. ((hugs))

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  74. Michelle- Praying for you, and for God to give you a peaceful mind. His loving comfort can get you through anything.

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  75. I am so sorry to hear what you are facing! I can't imagine how scared you are, I would be too! I will pray that all goes smoothly and you are on the way to complete recovery! Positive thoughts are being sent your way! Chase any negative thoughts out of your mind and listen to happy music and watch funny movies! Keeping yourself in the positive will help your body fight off the negative! Hugs to you and your family!

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  76. Sending you lots of prayers. Hang in there & try to stay positive & know that there are people out here praying for you & sending positive energy. Thinking of you, Karen

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  77. I am so sorry to hear about this. I am praying for your recovery and that the doctors in MD can eliminate this scourge. Blessings to your entire family.

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  78. My prayer is that our loving Father will reveal more His heart to you through this very difficult season. You are loved.
    Paula

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  79. You said you wanted our prayers and honey, you've got 'em! Baring your soul is never easy but what you have to realize is that the people that matter will love you warts and all. I am praying for you and your family during this difficult time. I know that God will hold you in His mighty hands. God bless!

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  80. Thinking of you in Minnesota.

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  81. Thanks for sharing. You'll definitely be in my thoughts and prayers.

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  82. Oh my goodness! My heart goes out to you! I will definitely be praying for you. I love your blog and the sweetness you bring to it. Best of luck!

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  83. Dear Michelle,
    my huseband and I will pray for your healing, and also that you and your family have peace in your hearts throughout this difficult probation. We ourselves have experienced that Jesus is above every disease.
    Let me reminde you of His words:
    "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (Joh 14:27)
    "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what, ye will, and it shall be done unto you." (Joh 15:7)

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  84. may the lord look down on your and your family and bless you all abundtly and with all the goodness you are seeking ... my prayers are with you ... been there, done that with a precious grandchild ....

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  85. I started following you a few months ago and I always look forward to your posts! You will be in my thoughts and prayers, as well as your family. I hope for a full recovery with a happy ending. Hugs!

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  86. Michelle, you are such a ray of sunshine to all of us who follow you, and I know that I cannot possibly have the words to ease the fear or worry that your facing, but I can tell you that I will lift you up daily, that I believe the Father can and will heal you and restore you. I pray that he directs the doctors and leads them the way to your wellness. Fight this fight...you can do it, you are young, beautiful and a gift to this world, so please know that you are getting a huge hug right now with tons of love and prayers.

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  87. Adding my prayers to the others... that you will know how much God loves you and that He is holding your hand every step of the way... and that He will fill your heart with His peace which is so much bigger than your fears.

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  88. Prayers, hugs, and blessings to you Michelle!
    Recovery is right around the corner.
    Sherry

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  89. For he will put his angels in charge of you, to guard you in all your ways. Psalm 91

    Michelle, I'm praying for you and your family.

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  90. Dear, sweet Michelle,
    May God's presence give you comfort, may His love encourage your heart, and His power give you courage as you face such frightening circumstances.
    I commit to pray for you as I trust the Holy Spirit to lay you on my heart. Praying now that His presence will be tangible to you as He wraps His loving arms around you---keep running to your Abba Father.

    Love,
    Merri Jo

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  91. Dear Michelle,
    I just happened upon your blog tonight and am compelled to send you good wishes. My sister was treated in St Louis (Siteman Center at Barnes) for lung cancer that had metastasized to the brain. SHe had a very poor prognosis initially but defied her doctors and did wonderfully. Today, with the new DNA treatments and cutting edge therapy there is hope. Do not lose heart, have faith is God. Bless you and yours.

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  92. Ive been following your blog for a very short time, and am in love with your creativity! I have read your update and am very very sorry to hear about your developing medical condition. Family support is the most important and a strong will. Please dont every give up. Also dont ever forget the healing powers of the body and nutrition. Western medicine has a lot of good to do, but you might want to check out The Gerson Healing Method, its not for everyone, but some healthy food can go a long way. Good luck in your fight!

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  93. Oh my gosh, Michelle...I am so sorry for all this that you are going through. My daughter in Chicago and I have been following your blog for a few years, and I just feel so badly for you. But I will send you all my prayers and support = be strong and just plow through this next phase of treatment. You seem to have such love and support around you, and those of us in blogland will send our prayers and well wishes your way to you and your family. Don't despair, dear. So many out there that you will never meet will send their prayers to God for you!
    Terry in Milwaukee

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  94. Stay strong and focused. Sending positive thoughts your way.

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  95. Thank you for sharing this devastating news with us. It couldn't have been easy but by doing so, you will have the prayers of many fellow bloggers and others. As well, you have given comfort to others who are battling cancer knowing they are not alone. Of course, you and your family are remembered in my prayers. May God grant you the courage, strength and comfort you need to get through the road ahead. Take one day at a time....
    We'll all be waiting here when you are ready to blog again.
    DD

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  96. How brave you are to share this news with your readers. Know that you are being prayed for... sincerely prayed for. May God grant you the peace and healing you need during this time.

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  97. Michelle...

    You have just been on my mind since I read this post a few days ago. Please know that you are in my prayers and the prayers of my family. We say a special prayer for you each night before our supper when we give thanks to God. You are such an incredible talent Michelle, and I can tell that you have a beautiful spirit.

    The will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you.

    Sending every healing wish I have my heart.

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  98. Delurking to wish and pray that things get better. My wishes and prayers for a full recovery for you.
    Gayatri

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  99. Michelle, I'm SO SORRY to hear this news. I know it was difficult for you but thank you for sharing your story with us. Thoughts and prayers being sent to you as you continue on this difficult journey.

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  100. I'm so sorry! I hope you receive better news soon. I wish you the best in your journey!

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  101. Lots and lots and lots of prayers! Thank you for sharing your story with us... keep your head held high & your trust in God!

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  102. Lots of prayers coming your way! You're very brave!

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  103. Haven't had enough time for in-depth blog reading lately...so just came across your news. Just lifted you to the Father in prayer! His grace truly is sufficient, something I pray you will come to know in an even deeper way very soon...make it a precious time of knowing His character better. Praying for strength and healing :)

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  104. Michelle, I am so sorry to hear this news. I hope that by sharing your story you will feel the love and support that is being shown to you by not only your family and friends but complete strangers. Know that prayers are good wishes are being sent up for you and that God will see you through. Praying for peaceful heart and complete healing.

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  105. Hi Michelle - Just wanted to say that I'm thinking of you & your family and will be keeping you in my prayers!

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  106. Michelle - You are such an inspiration. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

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  107. You and your family will be in my prayers.
    Love In Christ,
    Tanya

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  108. oh my gosh, i can't imagine...existing sounds about right, you just have to stay strong and take one day at a time. please know you are in my thoughts and i am sending you all the positive thoughts i can.

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  109. Oh my goodness that sounds so scary. We like to think these things can't happen to us but then they do. I'm so sorry. I will pray for you and your family and the Dr's. I hope you guys get the best news possible at your appointment.

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  110. Oh Michelle, I you are so brave to share such personal information. I truly believe blessings come and go in the strangest places and times. I'm so glad you shared this with all of us. I will pray for you and your family. Just think about all the prayers and love that is now on it's way for you.

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  111. i am just learning of your health, just want to add one more voice praying for you...

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  112. My family and I are missionaries in Buenos Aires, Argentina and I fell like I sorta know you through your blog. I will be praying for you.
    love, kimberly (age 14)

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  113. Dear Sister, It was so brave of you to open up.I'm proud of you. I would like to Thank all followers for your loving prayers and support. Sincerely Klair

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  114. so sorry to hear this news. I hope everything will begin to heal and go away with treatment. So glad you have family to go with you. You have lots of people praying for you and thinking of you. I'm glad you shared this so we know how to pray for you and check in on you!

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  115. You will be in my prayers.

    Cynthia

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  116. I was away and am just now catching up on my blog reading. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers as you face this obstacle with the strength and courage that you have shown.

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  117. I enjoy your blog very much and just saw this post about your illlness. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Keep strong!

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  118. Hello Michelle,
    I just stumbled across your Blog today while looking for inspiration for my old outdated kitchen cabinets and thanks to you, I found it. I pray that God will heal you according to His will and give you and your family strength and comfort. God Bless!

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  119. Dear Father,
    Please grant Michelle the grace, strength, and courage to fight this fight and to win. Whenever she's afraid, Lord, give her a Word to encourage her. When she needs help, send friends and family her way. Send her to just the right doctor and give them wisdom to treat her effectively. Bring peace to her situation, body, soul, and mind. In Jesus name. Amen

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  120. Many thoughts and prayers for you (& your family).

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  121. Michelle, I found your blog around Christmas (maybe at one of the linky parties?) and love it. I also had a brown, green, woodsy tree and mantle for the holidays but they didn't compare to yours -- you are truly talented! I saved some photos for inspiration next year ;-) . Also love your tutorials. I know I'll find something interesting and unique each time I visit. I'm praying for guidance for your doctors, strength and comfort for you and your family and for your complete recovery. God bless you!

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  122. I am not one for prayer but thoughts are certainly with you. Peace.

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  123. catherine from FRANCEMay 5, 2012 at 4:17 PM

    sorry i don't speak very well english, but i'm able to send to you millions of kisses and all my strenght across the seas between our two countries to recover a better health.
    I'm living in a town called LYON in FRANCE but I'm near you and i wish you a complete recovery from the bottom of my heart.

    God bless you , the people you love and America.
    catherine

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  124. I just found your blog and read your story. I am praying for you and for healing and ultimately for you to find strength, comfort, and peace through Jesus Christ who has saved us from all evil...including cancer. Please know you are in my prayers.

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  125. Michelle, I am a first timer to your site, and I am in awe of your creativity. And now you and a dear friend, former co-worker are 2 people whom I've heard the "C" word from in one week.....my prayers are with both of you. There is no way one as lovely and creative as you should have to bear more sadness.......God Bless beautiful lady, my thoughts are with you! Keep us posted and pour your heart out!

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  126. Michelle, I'm also am a first timer to your site and just read your story. I pray that God has been in control over all this and that you are on the road to recovery. - Teresa

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  127. Michelle, I just stumbled on your site from Pinterest - a fellow Geminii (we get a bad rap sometimes!) I am just starting a journey similar to yours, and I'm sending up prayers for us and our loved ones. From God comes strength. - Robyn

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  128. God be with you, Michelle. My prayers is that all of your prayers will be answered in the best possible way. I am going through chemotherapy for the second time. "God is able to do immeasurably more than you can ask or imagine."

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  129. This is my first time on this sight and it was ment to be! It's ok to be down but only for a little while. Would give myself three days, figured I deserved it! Then we have to dig down in our inner self and come back fighting with spirit determination and grace. Remember ther is someone always cazing over your shoulders for support and love. He is there. Please have faith and my prayers and thoughts are with.

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  130. Michelle, I just came to this site through Pinterest and read your post. I believe in the power of prayer and you now have mine.

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  131. I just found your site today and as I was looking at some of your posts ran across one that mentioned your battle. I went thru every page until I got to this part where you talk about what cancer you have. I am battling colon cancer right now and was diagnosised with kidney cancer three years ago (these cancers are not related). I am scared too but believe that God does answer prayers. My thoughts are also that we are not promised to live this life on earth forever. We all have a time and if my time is now so be it but I have a promise of an eternal life and I believe that Jesus has me covered for that. He is my savior. Praise God. My prayers are with you and your family. May he heal and protect you. May he give you strength to beat this cancer and the fear that comes with it. God bless you.

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Thank You for taking the time to comment! Because of the insane amount of spam comments, I had to stop anonymous comments-sorry for the inconvenience.
Michelle