Another Good Day ~HD’s Hubby
May 7, 2007
Here’s the latest from the Neuro-Oncologist. First of all, a big sigh of relief. Second of all, never get your diagnosis from a Neurological Surgeon. Although we love him, and he is a great surgeon (if you need one I’ll give you his name.), he did not leave much room for detail.
He was right, the tumor is an Astrocytoma grade 3, and the average life expectancy is 3 to 5 years. But lets remember that average is a mix of 80yr olds, 50yr olds, 30yr olds etc etc… not to mention, smokers or heart patients or whatever. Heather is only 32 and in perfect health. Look at it this way, if I told you that the entire 3rd grade was going to be given a C for a grade no matter what, all the A students would think that is totally crazy, All the F students would think that was great. the tumor that was in Heather’s brain is just barely a stage 3. Therefore you cannot say that she is a C student but much better. Another great thing is that our great surgeon was able to take out 99% of the tumor, that’s almost like starting over. He said that it was there for several years. Which means, if there are any microscopic cells (which there probably are) they would still grow fairly slow.(by the way Heather is correcting all my typos as we speak, and of course laughing at me.)
He cautiously used the cure word. Once Heather’s head wound is all healed up, she will start radiation and chemotherapy treatments at Moffit Cancer Center in Tampa, FL. They will be in close contact with the Mayo Dr.’s. The cool thing about the chemotherapy is that it’s done with pills that have a drug built in to them to minimize the side effects, and that is good. The Hand of God will either Kill the Cancer or He will use the drugs to do it.
Pathology:
Astrocytoma vs. Olioglioma or however you spell it.
If the genetic study of this tumor comes back as an Olioglioma then that is even better news because that type is the least agressive in the tumor family. The only reason they say this, is that it looks like a Olioglioma but has cell division like an Astrocyoma. If it is an Olioglioma it would be a stage 2 tumor but treated the same.
There you Have it.
We are going home tomorrow yippee. See you later Rochester, MN. We love our new friends from there.
Special thanks to our new Brothers and Sisters in Christ. Yes that means you.
“This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
such a simple verse, yet means more to me this day than most others.
We Keep Pressin On.
HD’s Hubby
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In other words: Play Nice
214 Responses to “Another Good Day ~HD’s Hubby”
I can’t express how wonderful this post was to read. Especially the part about Heather correcting typos! The news continues to reflect God’s mercy and His answers to SO MANY prayers.
Though I may never meet you I continually pray for you and your family, Heather. You are in my thoughts constantly and I pray without ceasing for your healing, recovery, and your new lease on life.
God is so good. Thank you, Heather, for continuing to share your journey, your inspiration, your faith, and your family with us!
Hugs
Praising and praying. God is good.
Thank you for making me smile… and painting the picture in my mind of Heather’s beautiful smiling face…
Love you guys…
~L
laughing! incredible. no greater sound at this juncture, i’m sure.
no doubt you are all elated to be going home and start the healing process with the rest of the family. my thoughts are with you all.
Heather - I somehow found your site the day you received your diagnosis and have been watching following you ever since. Blessings to you, sister - your strength, determination and courage are remarkable. I pray for safe travels home, a joyful homecoming with your children, and peace as you continue to tackle this obstacle.
Blessings & hugs,
Beth
They day Heather typed “I’m still standing” I cried! How miraculous! How amazing is our God!!
I know it will be so nice for you both to be home again. Travel safe and know that I am still praying for your entire family. God Bless you all!
rejoicing with you this minute.
thank you
safe trip home
Glad to hear that you are doing so well and that they were able to take care of all but a scant bit of that extra brain stuff. We will keep praying for your continued recovery.
God is good, my friend!
Thank you for the update! And thank you for explaining “life expectancy” the way you did. I will share the explanation with my friend whose husband has an astrocytoma (heading into year 3). Those numbers given by well-meaning doctors can really cause mental havoc.
Safe travels back home!
I ma totally beyond words and excited beyond belief!
TOMORROW TOMORROW TOMORROW!!!
God is so awesome, and Heather is amazing and you, dear Mark has been in the best seat to watch God at work . God has truly wrapped his arms around you guys in huge, huge ways since before day one.
I hope the 5 of you have the biggest party on the way home. At home, in home.
The kids must be thrilled.
We are thrilled.
Hug that wife of yours for me … will ya?!
Thank you so much for the update. I’ve been checking compulsively for days. I will continue praying.
Although I’m sure you’ve heard a whole lot of miraculous cure stories, I figure there’s always room for one more. The daughter of a woman in our Sunday School class was diagnosed with terminal cancer last summer. It grew aggressively (it was in her stomach) and seemingly refused to quit. Our class prayed over her and painted her house and planted flowers in her garden and prayed and prayed and prayed. She started to get a little better, and then had a horrible set back. They ran tests and found that the cancer was growing with a vengeance. About a week later, she was all set to return to treatment, but they first had to do one last test to get an idea of the best way to proceed with treatment, which was scheduled for the following week.
They couldn’t find anything. Not a thing. They were befuddled (I love it when doctors get befuddled!). They ran blood tests (two or three, I can’t recall) and they said her blood was so clean, it was as if she’d never had cancer at all.
That was at least six months ago, and she’s still completely cancer free.
God is able and He can do it … in whatever way He chooses.
My love to you — Mandy
Amen!!
We have and will keep on praying for y’all.
This song keeps going through my head. Here is the chorus.
“I know God makes no mistakes He leads in every path I take, along the way that leading me to home. Though at times my heart would break there’s a purpose in every change he makes, that others would see my life and know that God makes no mistakes.â€
Hang in there guys, HE has something big for y’all!
What wonderful news!!! I have been feeling down all day - but now this is SO great! PRaise the Lord! What a miracle you truly are - going home less than one week after your surgery!!!! Have to say it again!! Praise the Lord!!! Love, Lisa in Texas =-)
Sending you love, peace and prayers. Your faithfulness (and Mark’s) through all this has been an incredible inspiration to me and many others. You are truly special and I’m so glad you are part of Laura’s life….and ours.
Love,
Laura’s Mom
Great to hear that Heather is laughing. You guys have a safe trip home!
Well, I have gone from crying for you to praising with you all in one day. DH makes the prognosis look WAY better than the surgeon! lol I just love you guys and your outlook on this situation. I just know God is going to use it for your good; He’s already used it for mine :-) Continuing on in prayer for your family. Have a safe journey home. {{{hugs}}}
I am so happy for you that you are going home, That is just awesome!!! Nothing heals the heart and soul like home. Praise God.
Praising God right along with you. So glad that you are going home. Safe journeys and continued prayers from our family to yours. I’ve been sharing your story with my husband and kids - and we’re all praying. God is good!
It is so good to read this post Mark. We’re with you in this - praying and believing God for the best. Safe trip home!!
Oh, this sounds so much better!
Stay strong…day by day.
And have you heard yet that you are a great testimony for strength and faith?
Without a doubt, you are.
Wow!! That’s a whole bunch of huge words to sound out and remember!! I agree with you.. the Dr.’s are great people, but sometimes they don’t give you the whole story… we found that our when my Papa was in the hosprital after he broke his back.
God bless you and your family!! I bet the kids can’t wait for you to get home.
Prayers,
Courtney
Sounds SO much better. We are excited about her recovery…back HOME!
Wow. What a roller coaster…inoperable to 99% cleaned out. Stage 3, 3-5 years to this news.
1 Chronicles 5:20
He answered their prayers because they trusted in Him.
Mark 9:24
“I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”
Man, I LOVE our God!
On my knees still, but praising God with you. This post sounded so much more encouraging. I am rejoicing that Heather is laughing, and correcting typos!
Enjoy family and HOME!
I can’t believe you are going home already! PRAISE GOD! Florida here ya’ come! WA-HOO!
Mark and Heather –
God is with you and always will be! God bless you as you remain such a strong witness for Christ and faith in Him!
Sallie
This sounds very hopeful!! And I am so glad the chemo has built in a drug to minimize the side effects. I m just amazed someone can go home so soon after brain surgery! God is good!
Wow! Yay God! Heather and Hubs, Your strength in the midst is a continued testimony!
I’m so happy…even with tears in my eyes! Thank you for the update.
I just wrote a long comment then erased it…suffice to say I agree with and am praying along the same lines as you guys!
God loves you!
Praise God from whom all blessings flow!!!
We’ll miss you, but know we’ll see you again someday. :) Blessed Be Your NAME!
I don’t even have words at the moment. Just…wow…
Thank you Lord!
This IS the day!
Praise God - that’s all I can say!
Oh, this sounds better! Praise God!
You’re going home?
You’re going HOME?
I AM SO EXCITED!
And re: the prognosis - I just exhaled really, really big. I’ll call y’all in a couple of days - once you have time to settle in at home.
HOME! :-)
Yee haw!!! Praise God!! God is so good and I am so thankful for answered prayers.
God inhabits the prayers of His people. :-)
God is good!! :-)
Love,
Jennelle
Amen, amen, AMEN!! ((hugs))
Hey Heather wow talk about strange, I am from Tampa Fla and I was there last year with my dad who was at Moffit Cancer center for his lung cancer. I flew back to Tampa to take him to all his treatments there. I know the center well and they were so good to my dad. You will be very comfortable there. My dad lost his battle with lung cancer 6 months later but I was glad to be a part of his recovery. My prayers are forever with you and your family.
Love you
Rejoicing! Praying! Trusting Him! We will not let a day go without prayer for you…you are such a special family! Enjoy being home…praying for safety in travel and good weather as you go!
We’ll be in Destin the first week in July and wish we could come on over and hug your neck, Heather!
Love in Him,
Holly
I love your report and your perspective. It really makes sense!
Steph
Praising the Lord for the Miracles He has placed at your feet. I mean, you had brain surgery on my birthday and that was only four days ago, and you get to go home to your sweet babies already! Speechless!
As to doctors who think they can do what God does not, hmmm. God doesn’t promise us tomorrow, but has numbered our days. God knows the moment a sparrow falls to the earth yet holds us in the palm of his hand.God knows the day and teh hour Jesus will return yet keeps even that to himself because He wants us to celebrate Today.
Today we rejoice in today. It truly is the day the Lord has made. Today Jesus is Lord, tomorrow Jesus will still be Lord and we will still be rejoicing.
By the way, so glad you have never settled for average!
Because of Jesus, Bobbie
So excited to hear y’all are getting to go home! We will be praying for your safe travel, some rest once you get home, and that your precious kids will help momma heal as they enjoy having her back!
God is GOOD ALL the time!
You sound like a super strong woman! Your family should be so thankful and proud to call you their mom, wife, daughter, friend, and I am proud to call you sister in Christ!
\o/ Amazing!!! Still praying for you.
What encouraging words. Bless you as you travel home.
My verse for today is Isaiah 26:3 “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee.”
So happy to hear there is so much hope. I have been praying for you and I find myself so saddened by your story, but so inspired to expand my faith in god.
Thank you
I praise our God for the great things he has done! Praise him, just flat out PRAISE to you God almighty!!!
Thanks for the update info.! We believe in God’s miracles. We’ll keep praying for you, Heather and your family. Only God knows your years on earth.
OH I am so glad to read this!! I have been thinking about ya’ll all day! I am so glad to hear that you are going home tomorrow and you will all be togehter (with all your babies). Blessings as you fight and trust and grow and all the things you are doing right now in front of all of us. Thanks for the good news!
Wow! Such a beautiful testimony of strength. I continue to look towards your example in my current struggle and know that the Lord led me here now two-fold…prayer for you and to be taught. Amen.
Rejoicing with you! Praise the Lord!
Home? Really. That is amazing.
“He cautiously used the cure word”.
We’ll take it.
dawnz
Love hearing the encouraging news. And I am glad you’ve had a short time to get a handle on things, and a mindset on them, so that you are more able to go home and help little ones understand. I think you made a wise decision in that. Praying and watching for the next chapter of His goodness in your life.. May He glorify His name; may many people hear your story and say, “That had to be God. Had to be.” Thank you for sharing this with us.
Praising our Savior all the day long!!! This is HIS GLORY. YOU are His song.
Have a safe, beautiful trip tomorrow. Hug your children. GOD BLESS YOU.
Love,
Natalie
Awesome news. God is good!
Safe trip home and enjoy the joyous reunion of your family. I can feel there will be only good days ahead for this dear family. I have been so touched by you and I thank you for sharing with us. I will keep you in my thoughts and keep checking on you. Strange isn’t it, how you can connect and feel so close to someone you don’t know, and will never meet?
Love to your family from ours.
Pam from Ontario
CAN YOU HEAR ME JUMPING UP AND DOWN AND SCREEMING THANK YOU JESUS????? NO WELL HANG ON IT IS ABOUT TO GET LOUDER.
PRAISE GOD
May our wonderful Savior continue to show Himself mighty in Heather!
OK, this is making me cry….
Praise God. His mercies are new every morning. Great is His Faithfulness.
Praising God here.
He has used you to touch so many in ways you will never imagine. Sharing your story with all of us . . . your fears, your prayers and your faith . . . you are amazing and may He continue to bless you as you bring glory to Him.
We are weak, but He is strong.
Heather, this sounds like very good news! I am also thrilled that you seem to have come through this surgery in good shape. Praise God! (Your faith in Him is so impressive–great witness.)
I love the Psalm your husband quoted. We sing it frequently during the Easter season. Let us, indeed, rejoice and be glad in this, the day that the Lord has made!
Praying for your complete recovery. God bless your whole family.
I am so glad to hear this news. Praying for you guys all the time.
That is SUCH awesome news! Thanks for the update and rest assured you are being remembered!
JESUS IS LORD! LORD over Heather! LORD over her brain! Thank You Jesus for the good news. You ARE THE HEALER! Continue to move LORD! AHHHHHH AMEN!
That is great news! I am so glad to hear it =)
Safe travels home for you!
Thanks so much for the update! I know you all are excited about going home tomorrow. Have a great trip.
God is good all the time!
Praying for you.
Holding onto hope for you…much peace to you and your family.
That sounds like excellent news. God bless you both on your trip home. Still praying…
This is the best thing I have heard ALL day! You are BLESSED! I can’t wait to see what else God does….this is AWESOME!!
So happy to hear things have went so well, and there is hope on the horizon! I am still praying for you, and have added you to my church’s prayer list.
i know that i have already commented, but i want you both to know you have moved me in ways i can’t even begin to express.
Great!!!!
Praise be to our God.
Pressin’ on in prayer with you.
Have a safe and uneventful trip home!
Praise the Lord (AGAIN)!
God has laid this song on my heart for you:
“Be Strong” by Joel Lindsey & Pam Thum, sung by The Martins
V. 1
The wind blows
The child wakes
The years go
The heart breaks
The rains come, the castle falls
You lose hope
The sould cries
The fears grow
The time flies
Life goes on, but through it all
Chorus:
Be strong, don’t be afraid
You’re not alone in this world
Be strong, take courage and fly
Cause now’s the time to stand
Walk in the promised land of life
Be Strong
V 2.
A road ends
A dream dies
You breathe deep
And realize
To press on, you must believe
The Lord knows
The tears dry
You find hope
You live life
You look back, and finally see peace
Bridge:
Feel the wind blow on your face
Taste the victory of grace
Touch the joy of freedom
knowing you have overcome (!!!!!)
Heather and Mark - Feel, Taste, and Touch the victory of grace! We love you, and safe traveling tomorrow :)
Julie in Texas
Safe travels back here to FL.
You have brothers and sisters here in Tampa praying for Heather, Hubby and the whole family. We’ve put ya’ll on the prayer list for our church.
God Bless you all.
How amazing that DAYS ago, Heather’s brain was open and being cut into and TODAY she is correcting TYPOS!!!! I mean that is just so FANTASTIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That is great news - and yes Heather is an A++++++ student in this class and she is going to be on the honor roll FOR SURE!!!!!!!!
Happy for the news…you had me googling medical terms earlier today. Keep the faith and know that all kinds of brothers and sisters out here are praying for you, Heather.
Nappy, happy, happy for you. Thank you Father God, praise His name forever. Blessings.
I’m so very thrilled that you are going home!!!! May God bless your travels and let you settle in peacefully!!!
Kicking my heels and doing a happy dance in praise and adoration to God. What fantastic news!! Praise God!!
Adding to my prayer list a safe trip home… TOMORROW!! :-)
Still continuing to pray without ceasing!!
Whenever life gets me down, I can count on Heather and her family sharing the awesome love of God! It always lifts me up.
Heather, you are being prayed for in WA state and in GA! Keep on standing!!!
May you have safe travels. What a blessing to be back home and with your children as reunited family. Best wishes. Your life is a living example of the things that we cannot explain but must believe in. :)
Praising the Lord for the news and praying for a peaceful transition to home and for treatment to squash those cells!
Your testimony through this is amazing! All the people who have come to Christ because of it gives me goosebumps! Glory to God!
Shari
Heather,
A group of gals in Valrico- near Tampa - started the Beth Moore Breaking Free here this evening. We spent time in prayer for you and your family. Just so happens that one in our group is a chemo nurse at Moffitt. She called us to say that she was staying at the hospital to help a patient through a treatment. You are going to be in great, gentle and loving hands at Moffitt!! Stand strong might warrior, Kathy
Going home? Already? Amazing! You go girl!
How awesome. I know your kids and your entire family and all your friends are elated. What wonderful news! I’ll keep praying and keep praising our God from whom ALL blessings flow.
You sound like you are recovering so well from your surgery. Will continue to pray for you and your family.
I cannot wait to have you home! :) I have missed you!!!
This sounds much better! I am amazed by your testimony and praying for your family.
YOU ARE AMAZING and you have such wonderful support around you! God will answer our prayers! Keep smiling! Attitude is everything! We’re praying for you daily!
WOOHOOO!!!! HOME!!!!!!!
I am sure you will be so glad to get back to your beautiful children!!!!
This post about the prognosis sounds very encouraging! I will keep praying for you and am addicted to checking to see how you are doing!
Love in Christ,
Jen
Praise the Lord! We shall keep praying.
-Astraea, AZ
Hi Heather, I happened upon your blog two days ago, and it touched my heart…your are an inspiration in your faith and attitude..
My prayers have been added to all the others….
Your hubby’s post today was indeed encouraging.. I rejoice with you !
I will continue to check back to read about God answers to all our prayers!!
“The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His mercy!” Psalm 147:11
Praise God. Now that is good news! You must be beyond excited to go home tomorrow and hug those cute children of yours!
Dear Heather,
This post sounds so amazing. I am so glad you have your husband , support, are laughing and everything is promising. Have a safe trip. Prayers, hugs, laughter and sunshine your way my sister.
Hugs,
Angel Mama ():)
no words to explain what a blessing you are to me. tomorrow marks the 2nd year since my son died on Mother’s day. I am praying for your recovery in full. I am so grateful to read this good news. selahV
Praise God! This is a very encouraging update. We continue to pray that the Lord would completely heal Heather of this cancer. May He continue to bless and comfort you as you go through this trial.
Wonderful news that you are headed home!
I will continue as others do to keep you and your family in my daily prayers.
I have recently started a faith journal and have added your web site link to the side bar so that others who do not know you may hold you in prayer.
I have no doubt your journey will bring you many blessings that you can’t even begin to imagine at this time.
Life becomes sweeter because it is so fragile.
Have a safe flight home.
very excited for you X
Definitely rejoicing with you!
Bless God!
Blessed be the name of the Lord!
Home is waiting. Safe travels and enjoy your own beds!
Blessings,
~Toni~
Our God is anything but “average,” and we can trust Him to do anything but average things with you, Heather! I’m praying for a safe trip home, speedy recovery from the surgery, and amazing, amazing results from the chemo–thank you for a testimony that has held fast!!
Thanks for the update. This is great news. How great is our God? As Travis Cottrell said, “How great do you need Him to be?”
I’m so thrilled you are going home - and on my birthday, to boot! That is amazing news! And Heather is laughing - keep it up, it’s good for you! I’ve been praying for you many times a day and will keep it up. Have they let you wash your hair yet? Happy homecoming! God is SO good!!
Kate
That is the most excellent news. Go Heather :)
(and family!!!)
That is awesome news. I was lying in bed last night thinking about Heater and then my aunt. My aunt had lung cancer. They opened her up to try and remove the tumor but once open they realized that it had spread to the sides of her heart and obviously it was inoperable. Before the op they gave her the 3 - 5 year sentence. After the op they basically expected her to die soon. Well, she did not. She went on to live a very full life for another 13 years and in my opinion could still have been alive today (she passed away in November) had it not been for nurses not taking good care of her. Basically I just wanted to say that the medical personnel try their best but only God can decide..they can’t
Wonderful news! I am on that rollercoaster with you guys too! This is so much better,
My verse for today is “Be still and know that I am God!. Oh yes He is!
Going home! Praise God!
brilliant!!
prayers continuing….
Awesome news! Praising God and asking Him to continue his good work and eliminate the rest of the tumor.
Im praying for you all. Have a safe trip home.
It is amazing how one thing can mean different things (profoundly different!). God Bless you and keep you all safe on your journey home.
Heather my prayers are with you. I know there will be a positive outcome for your family. We all really only have today and must enjoy it. Your strength and positive outlook is an inspiration to us all.
Carol/Australia
Continued prayers!
That sounds fightable!!! Blessings!!!
Don’t you love that life expectancy does not rest in the hands of cancer or a doctors best estimation? God Almighty will not be controlled by anything. He is absolutely wonderful that way! We will live till His will is complete in us not until cancer has had its way with us.
Heather, you are a wonderful woman of faith. God is singing over you.
Heather & Mark, Family, What wonderful news, have a safe trip home, continuing to lift you up in prayer. Samuel.2.22-29..You are my lamp O Lord; The Lord turns my darkness into light. Karen
wondeful news!
How wonderful you are going home! God is amazing–thank you both for being such an awesome testimony to that fact. I continue to pray. Enjoy those first hugs with the kids!
THANK YOU so much, Mark for posting this today! What a great update for us to be praying more specifically. So glad that you were able to talk with this second doctor to give you a better idea of what’s going on. Know that we’re praying for y’all and lifting you up…so happy y’all are headed home to your sweet kids.
Much love and prayers…
99% of the tumor! Wow! That is awesome!
This sounds like a great report, and I am standing with you that our God is the Great Physician and able to heal (whether through His mighty hand alone or the modern marvel of medication that He’s blessed us with)!
Hallelujah!
My very best friend in the world went through cancer treatment at Moffit, that was 18 years ago. She is still here, and credits the hand of God AND the wonderful Dr.’s at Moffit.
She has only great things to say about them, and I still remember how positive they were, they really went above and beyond and believed with her for her healing! You will be pleased.
Still believing with you
Love from Indiana
Mark and Heather:
Grateful you are going home! What a celebration that will be. I hope that C. and I can come visit later in May. Each day we get up and check the blog and continue to pray. Praying today for safety on the trip and rest as you go and oh, the joy when you hug Easton and Eli. Love from the Ragland’s!!!
Heather and Family,
I have never met you but have been praying diligently for you for the last few weeks….and passing on your blog and story to friends and family. We are all rejoicing and praising God for the success of this surgery! We will continue to hold you and your family up in prayer as you walk forward on this journey. God is glorifying Himself in you!!!
And the news just keeps on getting better!
99% removal? WHOO HOOOO!! Yes, indeed…great news!
Going home??? I bet you both can’t wait to wrap your arms around all 3 of your children and soak each other up!
Have a safe trip home. Surround yourselves with your family and get some rest. There’s still a battle to be fought…but I really think you WILL win this war :)
Hugs to you Mark and Heather! Still praying for all involved~
It is just astonishing that you have recovered so quickly that you’re going home! Amazing! I am so blessed to have come to know you through your postings about your ordeal, and you have brought me closer to God.
I pray every day for a miraculous recovery for you, Heather. I will not stop.
Awesome news! Keep being faithful in allowing God to heal you through His way. You are being a wonderful example of His vessels!!! Much love
Heather and family! What a wonderful testimony to God’s goodness and faithfulness! He holds you in His everlasting arms. Although i don’t know you, I feel like I do and I update my husband everyday on how you’re doing! We live in Panama City, Fl….I see you live in Florida too. In Christ’s love. .
Going home?!! Alright. I will continue to lift your family in prayer.
To Heather and her DH-
You guys are an incredible team! Together with our Lord, satan doesn’t stand a chance! Blessings and prayers for a safe trip home and I think a HUGE party is in order!!!!
Praise to the Lord, the Almighty the King of Creation!
Heather - you and your husband are such a great encouragement to me — there is NO way to tell you how much! Your faith is amazing and makes me want to strive even harder in my relationship with HIM!
THANK YOU both so much!
Still praying in NC for you and your family!
God will work wonders in your life. I am still praying for you and your family and your doctors.
~Jennifer
It’s hard to know what to say…Homer Simpson would say, “Woo-Hoo!”, Bill and Ted would be all, “EXCELLENT!”, and of course, Beth Moore would shout, “YA-HOO!”. So, I guess you can just pick your favorite, and celebrate the goodness of God! HE IS GOOD! And I am so happy for His goodness to you!
Thanks for posting this, Mark. What an encouraging update. I know that God’s hands are all over this, and I will continue to pray. Love you all!
Thank you for posting the update! I was very upset to read the 3-5 year diagnosis. Sending prayers and I hope you have a safe trip home.
what a roller coaster ride this has been for you both!
That’s great news that you are going home!!
Be safe!
Blessings,
Karla
i knew there would be HOPE! congratulations on the good news. you will beat the odds, no matter what they are. thinking of you and praying.
amy in chicago
Amazing! I know the kids are thrilled you are coming home so soon and can’t wait to see you! Have a safe trip and get some rest.
PRAISE THE LORD!! That report is sooo much better than the surgeon had given. You are going home. You will absolutely be better just to be HOME!
We are still standing with you. Keep on standing, Sister and Brother!
It’s amazing how the Lord has brought together so many believers. That is the body at work, praying, encouraging and loving each other.
PRAISE THE LORD!!! You go girl!!
Oh thank you so very much Dear Lord Jesus! Your recovery is phenomenal Heather and I thank our Heavenly Father for that! Will pray for safe travel mercies home and of course will continue to keep you in prayer as you begin treatment at home. Thank you for the explanation of your condition.
very good news, keep your hopes up!
Praise God for answered prayers!!!! Woot!!! Glory, glory, glory to a powerful, loving God — HOW CAN I KEEP FROM SINGING YOUR PRAISE????
Okay — so I know you get a lot of song lyrics on your comments … but I can’t help but add this one — it’s Chris Tomlin’s “How Can I Keep from Singing” — and it’s just so appropriate!!!
v1:
There is an endless song, echoes in my soul, I hear the music ring. And though the storms may come, I am holding on, to the rock I cling…
chorus:
How can I keep from singing your praise; how can I ever say enough, how amazing is your love. How can I keep from shouting your name, I know I am loved by the King, and it makes my heart want to sing.
v2:
I will lift my eyes, in the darkest night, for I know my Savior lives. And I will walk with You, knowing You’ll see me through, and sing the songs You give….
I can sing in the troubled times; Sing when I win; I can sing when I lose my step; And fall down again; I can sing ’cause You pick me up; Sing ’cause You’re there; I can sing ’cause You hear me, Lord; When I call to You in prayer; I can sing with my last breath; Sing for I know; That I’ll sing with the angels and the saints around the throne …
How can I keep from singing Your praise; how can I ever say enough, how amazing is Your love. How can I keep from shouting Your name, I know I am loved by the King, and it makes my heart want to sing.
I have goose bumps reading your update. I feel like I want to cry. I don’t know you guys but somehow by following you the last few weeks, I feel as though I am close to you. Continue to hope. God did amazing things so far and more is to come I think. Praying for you… Love from Canada
You will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
My 11 Year old Daughter and I watched Living with Cancer last night. I pray for you every now and then during the day, put your name before the Lord.
He loves us and I’m so thankful you have this already established. I feel as if a gift the Lord has given me is to pray for people, and it makes the Prayer Warrior job so much easier when I’m praying for someone who believes!!
Your faith is refreshing.
God is so great, thank you so much for posting during this time, it means a lot to us pray’ers!
Hang in there, we’re all still petitioning the Throne on your behalf.
Love Di x
Mark and Heather,
I have enormous goose bumps right now and I am overjoyed!!!!!! I will continue to pray for you and your family every day and I cannot say enough, THANK YOU for sharing this journey and your faith and inspiration with us. I will walk with you in bloggityville every step of the way. (((((HUGS)))))
We will continue to pray I know you are not out of the woods by any stretch of the imagination but what a difference a hopeful spirit can bring to a difficult situation. May you all find healing, and as you said, GOd WILL heal but he will choose the path of it!
Hi Heather and Mark,
Welcome Home….The two of you are special and caring people.With the love of God , your father,you can handle the challenges ahead.Rest Heather and we will always be praying and wishing
the best for all of you.
from sunny Savannah, Ga./ Love… Baba
Heather you are in Gods hands. I think of you and your family daily, and each time I do I send up a quick prayer. Thank God you are doing so well, It will get better. I am sure. Keep smiling and keep those spirits up. Sounds like you are doing a fine job of that already!!! You are one strong lady!!! :)
Prayers for safe travel and continued prayers for healing and your family.
Julie
That news totally rocks…and so do both of you…I can read the joy between the lines of your post…and I can feel the faith that radiates from your words…God knew what He was doing when He chose the two of you to walk this valley…don’t know why He chooses some for one thing and others for another…but He chooses both of you…for great and mighty things…the lives you’ve touched and the people you’ve ministered to…I’m so privileged to know you…
Happened upon your website and what a blessing it is! You are amazing people, your attitude and outlook is a testimony to all. God is faithful always~
Amazing~
That sounds promising. I will keep you all in my prayers. Have a safe trip home. Keep the faith.
Heather is definitely an “A” student. You go girl!!!
Have a wonderful trip home! I can only imagine how excited you children will be to have you home. Praise the Lord for His mercy!
Hi Heather, just wanted to let you know that I am praying for you. Your story touches me personally because My own Mom died of a brain tumor. But don’t let that discourage you…. because she was given only 6 months to live when I was 7 and she lived another 7 years. And that was back in the 80’s. We are sooo much more advanced now.I have so much hope for you. May the Lord continue to bless you with peace and strength in this time.
Gratefulness to God for His protection of you during this time.
Privileged to continue praying that the “diagnosis” from the Great Physician will bring you peace and comfort as you begin radiation, et al.
Safe travels home to the arms of your kids!
Again, thank you for sharing part of your journey with us.
Thanks to your dear husband, Heather, for sharing more info with us.
What a joyful reunion in Florida! And what praises we need to remember for this reunion to happen!
I’m following your story and I wish you and your family all the best.
We tried to watch the show, but found that we don’t get that channel. Maybe it will be available to watch another way? I hope so! Prayinf for you and asking God to Bless you Big!
Love,
Holly
“The Hand of God will either Kill the Cancer or He will use the drugs to do it.”
Yes, yes, yes! Your positive spirit is simply contagious!! I’m sending up prayers right now!
I truly feel you’re gonna beat this thing. I’m awaiting more and more good results!
God Bless you!
Praising God, and continuing to pray.
Praying daily for you Heather!
Heather’s got joy, a good attitude, love, and the will to live — all VERY good medicine!!
Thanks for the update, and still praying!!
How encouraging. Thank you for the update, HD’s Hubby. Heather remains in my prayers!
Praise God for the good news! And Praise God that Heather is definitely an A student! Very good analogy, by the way. Still praying and checking on you!
Love,
Alayna
Praying for a safe trip home to your babies.
Much love.
Goodbye from Rochester!!! So glad you will be able to get home and continue your treatments there. I will continue to pray for you and your family. Thank you for the daily updates. Your spiritual strength has been an encouragement to me. It’s an amazing example of God’s strength in our weaknesses.
Becky
Good good news! We prayed for you at church at our healing service. And still praying. Blessings from England.
I’m so inspired by you guys…Heather and hubby.
I can’t stop checking!
Now tell us that you’re home, safe and sound, surrounding by three happy children!
(Oh, and the chemo plan, of coures, and other prayer needs for the family.)
Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee—haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaw! That’s a hopeful report. Thanks for the updates. As my own father battles cancer, y’all are an inspiration. Prayers from Central Texas.
Praising God!!!
I was so glad to read this encouraging post!
You go girl!!!
Still sending up prayers!
Dear Heather,
I just finished chemo in Dec. of 2006. I have Hodgkins Lympoma and had a thoracotomy (removal of a lung lobe) in June of 06. I am praying for you as your begin your walk with cancer. It is long and hard sometimes, but it is nothing that you cannot handle. We recently found out we are expecting and the chemo was suppossed to make us infertile, PRAISE THE LORD! God is good.
Here are some quotes from a book that a dear friend gave me called There’s no place like hope, by Vicki Girard ( a guide to beating cancer in mind-sized chunks) I strongly recommend it.
Your mind and your heart will be either your greatest allies or your most formidible foes. They will never, ever be ignored.
We have cancer - cancer does not have us.
We must stop speaking of cancer in whispers, as if it is something shameful. For when it is brought out into the brilliant light of the day it seems to shrink, to pull back, to diminish.
Above all, know this: (I am living proof!) Cancer is a beatable, treatable, survivable disease.
God only made each day to be 24 hours long because He knew that’s about all we can handle. When we get into trouble, iti s often because we are either hanging on to hours from yesterday or borrowing them from tomorrow.
Breathe, take these few days to reflect on how much you love your dad. Tell him you love him… and pray. Life is precious, we take too much for granted.
I am thinking of you.
Rani
Hebrews 10:23-24
Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. 24 Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.
Heather you have motivated so many to acts of love and good works!
Hold tight to THE HOPE!
Thank you Hubby dear for sharing the latest news. I feel the positive attitude, the fighting spirit, the will and faith to live. Heather and your entire family remain in my prayers.
And thank you for bringing me closer to God through sharing your struggle, faith, strength and love.
God loves you, Heather, and he is good. Blessings to all.
I found your website through another blog that I have followed for a while. (Eliott Mooney)
When I first went to your site I saw the information about the surgery and then immediately went to read your daughter’s story. I thought she was the one having the surgery.
I was astonished to find out that it was Heather having surgery. I read back in the archives until I figured out what was going on. The trials and tribulations that are given to some people to bear are incredible.
Heather’s faith is inspiring to say the least. So unwavering…
I am not a very religious person but I believe in the power of prayer… and there are a lot of people praying for Heather. So happy to hear you are going home tomorrow. I am praying for good news!
I have been following you all since boomama’s fundraiser and have been in such admiration of how you all stay so strong in your faith in God throughout all these trials. You are an inspiration for all and I can’t say that I have ever seen God shine so brightly through a person as much as you eminate all that is Him. I am thrilled to hear some good news and know that it means even more to you all. Your family is in my prayers!!!
Don’t forget those averages don’t include 100’s of people praying for miracles. I’m on my knees for you Heather! So glad to hear the good news.
“Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;” Psalm 103:4
Heather…I’m a Heather, too…a believer, with four homeschooling kiddos…and a fellow patient at Moffitt. I just finished my last round of chemo, but still have to return there from time to time. I’m praying for you, and would love to be able to encourage you. God Bless!
God’s grace and mercy are surely yours. You have an awesome hubby too.
Praying for you and will continue to do so!
So wonderful to read that you are going home so soon. I don’t know you but have been following your story from Moms of Grace and I am praying for you and your family at this time. You have been so inspiring during this whole thing and I am continually amazed at your strength, determination and above all your love of God. I can only hope that if every I have to face something like this that I will be able to maintain even just half of your courage.
Continue fighting on and enjoy going home to your children!
Man, I could feel the weight lifting when I read this. I have been just distraught over the grief you guys are having to deal with, and here I was worried for nothing!!! I’m praying that Heather will be her bouncy, fun and wonderful self - fully recovered soon! May the chemo go quickly and without a hitch. May the cancer cells DIE. May you remain uplifted in the Lord. Thank you for your bright and shining example of faith in such a difficult season.
We’re still praying. I have also passed on the news to many others who are non-internet users (but faithful prayer warriors). ;)
God bless your family… and friends (that means You too, Laura!).
My sister was 10 when she was first diagnosed and had surgery for a brain tumor. Her’s was also an astrocytoma although I don’t quite remember what the grade was. She was also given a life expectancy of 3-5 years but she celebrated her 13 year surgery anniversary on November 1, 2006. Although she is nearing the end of her time here on earth with us, she has lived a very full life. She went on to graduate from high school and college and did many things in her life we would only dream of. Only recently has she fallen ill and there are no treatment options left. I pray for you and your family daily. Like my sister, you have a positive outlook and that will get you far!!! God bless.
I have tears and goose bumps as I revel in what God has done and is doing - and in the testimony this has to be to the doctors and nurses you are working with. You’re home by now - hope the trip went smoothly! What an amazing blessing that you got to go home so quickly.
Praise God you are going home.
What wonderful news that you are all going home!!! Praise God!
Heather and family,
You are an inspiration. I will continue to pray for God’s clear direction in your life.
Here is a great article. Please read when you have a chance.
http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/TasteAndSee/ByDate/2006/1776_Dont_Waste_Your_Cancer/
Blessings,
Molly
Wanted to pass these thoughts along that I got from another blog yoursacredcalling.blogspot.com
If He has anything more for us to do or suffer, though life be holden by a rotten thread, that thread is more than cable; we are immortal till our change comes.
William Jay
He giveth more grace when the burdens grow greater
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase;
To added afflictions, He addeth His mercy
To multiplied trials, He multiplies peace.
When we have exhausted our store of endurance
When our strength has failed and the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father’s full giving is only begun.
His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.
—Annie Johnston Flynt
With love and prayers,
Keri
Praises to God!
Praise the Lord!
Psalm 43:4 & 5
Then I will go to the altar of God,
To God my exceeding joy;
And on the harp I will praise You,
O God, my God.
Why are you cast down, O my soul?
And why are you disquieted within me?
Hope in God;
For I shall yet praise Him,
The Help of my countenance and my God.
We are rejoicing with you! Much love and prayers your way!
Heather and Mark,
WOW!!! God is good and I am so encouraged when I read your blog! Thank you for sharing –God is glorified in your perserverance and Faith!!! We are praying for you and your family!!
Grace and Peace,
Michelle Watt–(frm Jacksonville :) )
More prayers…
Thinking of you today and praying for you that God would heal you quickly and give you a quick recovery. Also, that God would the doctors the wisdom to treat you in the way He wants you treated chemically.
Much love,
Shari
I was directed to your website from Matt and Ginnys site and i just wanted to let you know that my and my family are thinking about you and keeping you in our prayers. Take care and be strong.
always thinking of you and glad to hear of the wonderful progress heather is making. to borrow the words of Pastor Hezekiah Walker: reap the harvest that God has promised you; take back what the devil stole from you. Know that your God is faithful!
Praise be to God . . . so glad you’re going home. You and your family are held up in my prayers daily.
You keep “pressin on” while this army of believers prays you through.
Good news! I will keep on praying for you!
Me too!
My heart is encouraged by how you guys are handling and looking at what God has allowed to cross your paths in life!! My DH and I (as we wait for his PSA results this week) feel the same… God is holding us in his hands and guiding our every step and it will all be good. We are praying and praying! His will is always best, no matter what it is and we are resigned to it! :) Hang in there, Heather, and think of all those who love you.
We are continuing to pray!!
What good news! We are still praying. God Bless!
Heather & Family, Thinking of you and continuing to pray for complete healing.Praying your getting stronger with each day. God Bless.
Blessings and prayers to you all. xxxooo Gretchen
Hi, to you all (I’m including everyone who knows and loves you both in this ‘all.’)
I found this blog accidentally after stumbling onto the blog of a friend of yours while looking for victorian exterior paint schemes for my best friend, Heather. My older sister is also Heather. I’m surrounded by them, and I’m very touched by your diagnosis as this, too seems to be a common theme in my life- cancer.
I’m adding you to the prayer board at work- a non-profit Christian clinic for needy in Lawrence, KS: The Leo Center http://www.leocenter.com
Amazing things can happen through love, faith, and prayer, and I just wanted to drop you a, “Hello, God bless!” because I don’t really believe in accidents- Cheers! -Renee
Praise God!! We’ll continue to have you in my prayers
I’m sorry. I was so excited to see the wonderful news on your blog that I entered my address wrong and wanted to correct it.