17 November 2010

It has been a while since I wrote something on my blog and I do apologise to those who like to keep up with what is happening on this journey. I did have a few rough weeks after my 3rd and 4th chemo treatments. On Monday I had my 5th one and because it and the next 3 are a different drug the side effects will be different. Thankfully one side effect which will be more minimal is feeling of sickness. I will have some flu-like pain but I have pain meds for that.

The Lord continues to bless me with good friends who send me notes of encouragement and care packages. Last Friday I received one from Claire who sent me a package filled with lip gloss, hand cream, a beautiful brooch with the word Faith on it and a delightful book of Bible trivia. Thank you Claire!! That afternoon I had a wonderful visit with Sharon who was over visiting her family from England. Sharon has gone through her own journey with breast cancer and is such a great encouragement.

Yes, God is good and everything He does is good!!

9 October 2010

It has been 5 days since my 3rd chemo treatment. I have been doing well with my treatments and the only days that I really feel unwell are toward the end of the first week. So as I type this I am feeling a bit unwell. Thankfully it only lasts for a few days. I still have enough energy to do what I love doing - being involved in ministry - although at a a slower pace and less involvement. Last night we had a benefit concert in the Mall Arts Centre by John Schmid (with Commom Ground Ministries - a prison ministry in the states) who did a 'A Tribute to Johnny Cash'. The funds raised were for 2 local worthy causes. Had a good turnout with good opportunities to meet people from the community. Thank you Lord for open doors!!

25 September 2010

In my Quiet-times with the Lord, I have been reading my way through a song book (Mission Praise) and this morning I read the old hymn entitled 'All the way my Saviour leads me'. The first verse was such an encouragement to me that I want to share it with you.

All the way my Saviour leads me; what have I to ask beside?
Can I doubt His tender mercy, who through life has been my guide?
Heavenly peace, divinest comfort, here by faith in Him to dwell!
For I know whate'er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well.

19 September 2010

This morning I attended the combined service of about 7 churches in the Assoc. of Baptist Churches in Ireland. These particular churches are from around the Munster area in the south of Ireland. How wonderful it is to meet up together and sing praises to our God and to sit under the teaching of God's Word. There were about 350-400 in attendance. The pastor read out the words to an old hymn - Hallelujah! What a Saviour! Thank you Lord for the reminder that Jesus is our wonderful Saviour!

13 September 2010

Today I go for my 2nd chemo treatment. This time I am more prepared for what to expect. On Friday I went to my wig stylist to get my wig. I have to admit when I first saw myself without any hair it was a bit of a shock and to be honest I didn't like it. But the wig is beautiful and I have had so many compliments that it has eased my discomfort. On Saturday morning I prayed that the Lord would help me be comfortable with seeing myself without any hair and He has graciously given me a comfortableness in doing just that. Thank you Lord!!

6 September 2010

This morning I noticed that my hair is beginning to come out. I have to say that I have a great peace in the midst of this knowledge. Since last Wednesday, the 10th day after the 1st chemo treatment, I have been watching and preparing myself for this. The verse in Matt 10 (vs30) has become very real to me - "And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered." God knows each hair and He knows when they come out. He is walking right beside me in this 'new thing' I am facing. Thank you Lord for being with me!!

1 September 2010

I am so grateful that the Lord gave me a great day as I celebrated my birthday with friends (breakfast and dinner). And I am overwhelmed by the love and care shown to me by my family and friends through cards, gifts, texts and messages via Facebook and e-mail. This afternoon I also enjoyed spending time at the beach with my Heavenly Father. Thank you Lord!!