Wow. Thats all I can say about your comments, (and I read every single one of them, I always do.) Blogging has always been somewhat therapeutic for me, I can sit and write, and just get it all out. It helps me.
Its evident now after reading the over 900 (at last count) comments that my journey is also helping you. And that blesses me. What blesses me even more is that I literally have someone praying for me 24 hours a day. That just blows me away.
I have to admit that it is hard coming here and writing every day about my cancer. I do have weak moments, where I can’t get off the couch because my heart is breaking so much. I have had long and often times angry talks with God on more than one occasion. I have asked, like Jesus did, that this cup be taken from my hand.
And he gently pushes my outstretched arm back to my chest, cup still resting in its original place.
And then I read your comments. They give me such hope, and are such an encouragement to me. I read every single last one of them, and often go back and re-read them when I am having my “cant get off the couch” days. You are ministering to me when you leave comments- It comforts me both on the “thumbs up!” days, and the “rainy” days.
Yesterday I didn’t post because I didn’t want to hinder what the Lord was doing on my blog. I didn’t want to step up and interrupt the Holy Spirit from blessing me through you. I wanted to, boy did I want to. Remember my post about being an introvert now? But I didn’t. How could I?
Your comments were so kind, I had no idea that I was touching so many lives through sharing my cancer journey. Wait, that gives it owner ship… my journey through cancer. I just want to be His vessel, I want His light to shine through me at every turn in this honestly horrific experience. I want to be known as His child, not the girl that has cancer.
Many of you have talked about how strong I have been through all of this. I want to share with you something. I am only strong because of my relationship with Jesus Christ. I don’t know if I could face this with out knowing Him. I don’t know if I could face what my family has been through with Emma Grace without Him. He is what gives me strength, so when you think about how strong I am…. give Him all of the praise on that one… He is the rightful owner, after all!
Thank you for blessing me yesterday, as I laid on the radiation table, I thought about the then 600 some comments on my blog and just smiled. You all did that for me. It makes this journey so much more bearable to know that I have literally thousands of people praying for me and cheering me on a day.
And for that reason alone I am humbled….
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
You have touched MANY here dear sister. I am humbled just to know you, love you and learn from you.
by Cat2 more days! WOOHOO!
Well, now that I have tears in my eyes…
by KarlaA beautiful post.
I’ve known you as His child way longer than I have “the girl with cancer” and you will continue to be His child - praise God, that will not change! You are remarkable in the fact that even though you are sometimes angry with God (and that’s perfectly normal at times; “be angry and sin not”), you hold on tight to Him. You are such a blessing.
Words just can’t express the kind and tender feelings I have in my heart towards you, my sister in Christ!
Sending you much love and many prayers….
:)
Heather,
I found your blog via rocksinmydryer. My dad has gone through radiation, chemo and surgery twice for colon cancer. A FABULOUS book for encouragement and for evangelism while you’re doing chemo, he always said it was a great time to talk to other patients about God, is called A Reason for Hope. It’s by a pastor who chaplains at Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Illinois. I read it when my dad was diagnosed for the second time. I think it can help your believing and non-believing friends and family understand God’s plan for your cancer, his power and his sovereignty. I pray that God will use this time not only to heal your body but also to grow your roots deep and allow you to bless so many others at the same time.
by ElizabethAnd I’m in Atlanta, GA. :)
by ElizabethYour words are words of faith, even if at the moment you don’t realize it! You and your family are being prayed for mulitple times a day. Psalm 27:13.
by Randy AnsonIt is my honor to lift you up…
by LauraFaith makes this possible. It makes our journey possible. I’ve said many times that I don’t know how people without faith can face a life-threatening situation. I really don’t.
So, “well done” to you for hopefully using this difficult situation to show people what faith can do.
Good luck with the other half of radiation!
by BeverlyYou are amazing. Your blog is very therapeutic for many people. Thanks for posting every day. I read it all the time. Makes one realize not to take anything for granted. Good morning from Ottawa, Canada.
by NicoleI missed posting a comment yesterday, but I am inspired by you and your struggle to face this with such a great attitude.
by MaggieHappy to know that you are as blessed as I am by your journey. I pray you have a great day today!
Be Blessed!
by DeniseLove you, friend….
by boomamaHeather, you are truely a blessing to me, as one cancer patient to another, I know that the journey is not easy. We go through a lot of doubt, anger, why me’s, God don’t you love me any more, but, at the end of the day, we know that our feelings are just human and yes, God still loves us, no matter what, how we feel or how we look.
Have a blessed day,
by Norma WoodwardHugs, Norma
Dearest Heather,
by Lynne from CTPsalm 57:1 Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee, yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge until these calamities be overpast.
That was my cancer verse October 16, 2002 and then
Psalm 147:3 He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.
That was my verse when God called my daddy home October 25, 2003. I had MANY long conversations with God about allowing me to survive cancer only to rip my heart out with my father’s death. Your blog, as well as the many comments from those you have blessed, have helped me as well. I am praying for you
Praise God! WOW, I am so thrilled to hear how many people are reading and following you on this journey. Thank you Heather, for being you!
by ShannonHeather,
by Julie WGod has a plan for you. You are not just a “girl with cancer” to me. You are a woman of faith. A Child of God! You are an inspiration to all those you come in contact with. You stand as a witness of God in all things and all places. You make me want to have a better relationship with my Heavenly Father. What an example you are to all of us who read!
In my prayers daily….
Julie
Yesterday I was re-reading through your “About The Name” page, and I was struck by what you said there:
I then started thinking about what the title meant to me- Especially Heather- I want God to work especially in me… I want to be His tool, directly planted behind the cross.
My hope for this space is that Christ opens many more doors for me to minister and touch peoples lives- not just through Emma’s story, but also through what Christ has done and is doing in me. Through the good and the bad- open and poured out before my savior.
I hope that I have been a blessing to you, that you feel Christs presence when you visit here and that this next year I am able to share even more of Christ with you…because that is my greatest desire.
To share more of Him.
You are, you really REALLY are. You ARE ministering. You ARE touching lives, through the good AND the bad. You are a tremendous blessing to sooooo many people (as evidenced yesterday), and your impact is rippling out beyond all of us to other people as well.
If your greatest desire is to share more of Him, well, God has given you a huge platform in which to see that desire fulfilled. Certainly not in the way you would have planned or thought it to be when you started this blog, but in a mighty and powerful way just the same.
You are a daughter of the Most High God, and you are bringing glory to His name in all of this. Even though I have never met you, I am proud to call you my sister in Christ, and I am sending out hugs to you today. Be blessed!!
by Sondra(Sorry, I ended the bolding too early on my quoting up there. My bad.)
by SondraHeather, I often don’t comment b/c by the time I get around to checking my blogs there are already over 100 comments and I think, “There is no possibly way she can wade through these.” I am so glad to know that you actually read them and that they help you. I will comment more often!
by brendaGreat post Heather!!! You have taken this trial and turned it around to glorify our Lord!!! That alone makes you very special!!!
Praying you have a wonderful day!
Hugs~
by TianyTiany
I completely understand what you are saying- when we went through hard times with my son, everyone would ask me “how did you do it” or “how were you so strong” or “how did you not break down” and honestly, it just wasn’t an option! Praise God for his Hand on our lives and his mighty tower of protection and strength. And for his promises and faithfulness and goodness. I am so thankful. Not a day goes by that I don’t give thanks.
Steph
by Adventures In BabywearingWOW! 971 comments right now. That IS amazing! I already know how much you’ve ministered to me through this blog and I was quite sure you had been touching many others, as well….it’s obvious now that I was right.
We won’t stop praying!
by ElizabethHis child indeed you are, Heather! Prayed for you last night with Chris and today? Still praying…asking god to be Mighty over your days and nights, over your weak places and strong and come in your family and bless you, bless you, bless you!
by Holly SmithLove,
holly
I meant God! Sorry…my shift key and fingers don’t always coordinate.
by Holly SmithI don’t know how anyone gets through this life without Him!!
by TirzahHow comforting it is to know that God uses the ordinary people to do extra-ordinary things and to know that he has a plan that has not changed. I am humbled to read about the plan that he has for you, although the plan is not what we understand. When God created you he knew what you could handle and he knew that you would reach many by his plan! Continue the good fight! And know that you will be blessed by your faithfulness to him. We are praying! And I know he is smiling!
by ErinHaving lost a mom and step mom to cancer I keep praying for you so you won’t leave your children at a young age.Medicine has changed so much in the past 40 years that you do have a huge chance of getting past this mess and plus God is with you.
Thanks for your encouragment.I am going through a rough time with my husband working in California and us living in North Carolina.I get angry at God and then read your lessons to help get over it!
by TammyYou have that wrong. It’s YOU who blesses us! God is truly using you to reach us and it’s exciting to me to watch it happen.
Hugs!
by KatKat
I’m a 26 year old from Missouri and I came across your blog and it’s truly inspiring. My dad passed away from Huntington’s Disease, which is a neurological disorder and he lived with it for 10 years. It was very difficult to watch and now I, along with my brother and sister, have to face life each day knowing that we too have a 50/50 chance of getting it. It’s aweful and it’s something that never leaves my mind. When I meet a new guy, it’s so hard to tell him about it because it’s terrible. But reading your blog has really taught me to just take each day for what it’s worth and enjoy it and the family/friends in my life. And the guy I’m dating asked why I don’t want to have the test done to see if I’m going to get it. And the answer is b/c I don’t want to know if my time here is limited. I don’t want to know that. Just like how you mentioned. So thank you for showing your faith in God and showing how strong someone can be with all that you have going on. I pray for you daily. God bless you and your family. Corey
by CoreyHeather,
You are truly an instrument of God! Yes, it is to Him we give our praise, but also to you for being a faithful follower and wonderful example. Your efforts are a blessing to many. Continue to lift your head high and look up, Praise be to God! You are a bright and shining legacy my dear friend.
Paula
by PaulaHeather,
I am going through a really difficult divorce right now (and I in NO WAY mean to compare cancer and divorce as equals). I have two young children who need me more than anything and so I have found the strength and courage to forge ahead, even when I’m terrified. I often have people telling me how the way I’m handling this is admirable and I tell them, just like you, that it is God’s work in my life that makes it possible for me to face each day with a smile (mostly, I have bad days too!)
Your faith in God strenghtens mine. Thank you!
Karen :-)
by Karen D.Something came to my mind reading your post….
Someday, I am sure some of us that come here to read your blog will be faced with an illness that overwhelms us and scares us. We will be able to remember your words and strength to help us get through the toughest of times.
Thanks for being an inspiration!!
Love,
by JonnaJonna
Our family has traveled a similar road…cancer, spinal AVM, surgery after surgery, etc.! That’s one thing we always say…”How do people without faith do it?!” Just knowing that God is so good and worth of ALL our praise and knowing that are lots and lots of prayers being said just helps so much, doesn’t it?! May God bless you with an AWESOME day, dear, Heather! (from a Texan)
by BettyIf you have the time, you should buy a map and mark all of our cities. Hang it on your wall and whenever you’re having a down day, use it as a reminder of just how many people are cheering you on.
Keep on and on and on and on and…. I want to be reading your words for years to come.
by jessicaDearest Heather,
by MarieI have not commented before now, but have been reading for quite some time. I was taken by your comment that it is hard to come every day and write about your cancer. Now I know there is more to Heather than cancer, for sure. I want to know about how you are eating, where you are staying, who’s watching over you and your children. Have you done any fun things recently? I realize this is a hard time and you have many things to think and pray about. But this is also your life and it’s not all about cancer. So don’t think of this as updating us on your cancer - but your life - your wonderful life!!
Blessings on you and your family
Marie
Minnesota
Good Morning Heather! Praying for strength and courage that can only come from being His child.
by KariHave a Great Day in Him!!
:) Kari
Hi Heather,
You are a soldier for Christ and He has given you such
a big task, in the process you are blessing so many people.
The Lord is faithful, He has to be, it is His promise to us. So if we are weary and He sais call on me and I will answer then He needs to. Bethany prays specific so that is what I am doing for my life.
You have such courage and I pray for you and Bethany. I am looking for answers in prayer for both of you, I pray all the time. My heart goes out for you and I wish that I could lift some of the burden but then I can pray and I do.
Blessings,
Marie
God bless you and your family Heather
by MarieHeather, I came across your site via Ashley’s Story. You, like Trish, have an amazing gift of ministry. As I read the comments left above, they were about illness, divorce, being away from a spouse, etc… You are touching people in ways that you probably never imagined. Loved the pics of Easton being baptized…how neat that Dad could be the one to it! Keep up the fight and know that lots of people all over the country (and here in the state of Texas) are bathing you (and your family) in prayer each day. Lacy Toler
by Lacy TolerStill praying…I won’t stop!!!!!
by MicheleHeather, I’m so glad to hear you say that you don’t want to give the cancer ownership. Because it doesn’t OWN you…you were bought by the blood, remember?! Jesus is the one that holds you together! And he’ll bring you THRU this! Yay! I’m blessed by you!
by oh amandaWhen you believe and you spend time praying but don’t see results, even with faith, you wonder if a prayer makes a difference.
Then you pray for someone specific and you can see what it does for them (like you and this blog) and it feels like you are part of a miracle.
The power of prayer is Amazing.
by SneakyPeekReading your blog has done so much for my walk with the Lord. It’s easier now to really just give my issues up to God and let him have them, rather than give them to him - but keep an eye on them just in case he forgets.
The way you talk about how God loves you has reinforced in me that He loves ME just like that too! ME! I’m a sexual abuse survivor (by my preacher grandfather) and always felt like I was dirty and used in his eyes. But I’m starting to realize God aches for my pain and wants me to see myself as he sees me.. as a wonderful child of God! I’m often brought to tears when I have some quiet time with Jesus and allow myself to feel all that love and peace.
I am so sorry that you’re having to go through all this; I wish it wasn’t happening. But I thank you for sharing your struggles and thoughts so we can all grow in Christ with you. Thank you.
by StacyHeather, I wish you and your family did not have to go through this BUT that is not our choice or decison to make. I know you are shocked by how so many people gain from you and your travels with cancer. For so many I think it is this walk we take beside you that helps us to be better and helps us to grow. I know for me I learn from you as I see how you handle so much. Stay strong in your faith and I hope you wil always share that with us.
by A Good FriendDon’t feel that you ever have to post when what you need at that time is to not talk about it. Because Heather, we’re not going anywhere. God brought us all together with purpose. We’re praying for you when you post. We’re praying for you when we go about our day. We’re all lifting you and your family up to the Father in prayer and we completely understand that some days, you just won’t feel like posting. Rest! Rest in Him often and rest physically often. And know that we’re all here all the time. And yes, I feel I can say that for others, not because I know all (Ha! As if!) but because I see people returning again and again in love and concern for you. And sister, you are soooo right that YOU are ministering to us. God is working through you and in you. Thank you for your faithfulness.
by ToniBLessings,
~Toni~
Thank you for being real, honest and relatable! I have been deeply moved by all of your thoughts and feelings through this journey and I love reading about your faith!
You have such a great way of expressing yourself and speaking directly to my heart, even my soul! God is so good and I love that you can sing that even through your current circumstances! You are such a blessing to so many women!
I’m sure you never in your wildest dreams thought that your simple journey on a simple blog would come to this, but it has praise God - and Thank You! It can’t be easy to know that so many people read your innermost thoughts and to continue to bear them for all to see, but that’s what makes it so wonderful! Seeing real Faith lived out every day . . . even in the midst of the Valley!
Bless you Heather and your wonderful family!
by SheraYou talk of people blessing you but do you know how blessed we are because of you? Well I know I am! It’s so awesome to have the Lord with us during trials to walk with us and carry us when we need it. And to have so many people backing you who share the same faith is just awesome. Huggles!
by michelleI am sitting here teary eyed like so many others reading that post.
and you are right …with Christ you can face this and walk through the fire.
I guess the honesty of your blog was what appealed to me. my mom has had 3 types of cancer, breast cancer that req’d a masectomy, chemo & radiation & a little less than a year ago they found massive amounts and 2 seperate cancers- one in her large intestine && throughout her colon. She will never be the same. so while I had never personally had cancer- I have watched my mom go through it. alone. without Christ. and as I mentioned my hubby is a marine, we have 5 kiddos- and unlike your family- often have not been able to physically be “there” for her. Did I mention I am an only child….
so… this past bout with the double cancers (Aug 2006) I went back to take care of my mom for 2 weeks - very pregnant with a scheduled c-section less than a month awaay in early Oct- my mom had the cancer cut out but refused radiation and chemo. she said she would never do that again.
so for me- your process is kind of like the process of refining gold found in the bible and that refining has a huge importance to God: 1 Peter 1:7 (NIV)These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.
anyhow. thank you. thank you for allowing us to pray with you & for you. For helping me to slow down and appreciate my kids- and my husband, and my life. Several times a day I think of you, and your family. You have often said it took cancer to slow you down and appreciate all you have- well it took seeing you go through cancer to do that for me.
thank you for sharing it all, showing your faith, and blessing us all!!!!
by Jennifer in CAI’m so thankful that you are sharing your journey with us. I’m just facinated how God is shining His light through you. Your testimony is touching lives in a powerful way.
by laughing mommyI didn’t get to comment the other day…..
I visit from upstate NY…..near the Finger Lakes
I was 20 years old when my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, back in the 70’s. She has always been my hero…not only because of her love for God , but for the spirit in which she greeted each day and the manner in which she showed her eight children how to be grounded in faith and love. I shouted at God back in those days a LOT and I didnt’t even have the cancer; you remind me of her in so many ways….you inspire me. I applaud you and lift your name up to Him daily………
by donna-in-nyHeather,
You are not, and never will be, the girl with cancer. You are Heather and a WONDERFUL example of how we should all live our lives. You have been dealt some pretty bad hands in recent years, but you take them on, give them to God and know that it’s HIS plan for your life, not what YOU decide. You give hope and encouragement everyday to many people. We pray for you because we want to. I want to. Maybe this blog is what God had planned for you to touch people and bring them closer to him. I know that it is a wonderful ministry even if you didn’t mean for it to be.
Keep your head up, have your bad days, and know that we are all here for you, with encouragement and love, whenever you need it!
Love in Christ,
by SaraSara
Dear Heather.
God has Chosen you as one of the ones in this life to be worthy of carrying his message to so many who need to be uplifted with you everyday by his saving grace he looks everyday and says job well done good and faithful servant. He will never leave you and will lift you above all of this. I know many days are so so hard for you I dont know but I can imagine without the Lord these days would be impossible. Keep shining the Lord knows you are his bright and shinnest star right now God Bless you and your wonderful family Prayer will continue for you.
by ShirleyReading and praying for you daily in Woodbridge, VA. Amy Miller
by AmyHeather- I’m amazed at the response you’ve gotten from that last post! I love that you have people from all over the world reading your blog!
You are a blessing and an inspiration to us all!
Keeping you in my prayers!
by Overwhelmed With Joy!I have tears almost every day when I come here - tears of joy for your faith and strength IN JESUS. We are praying for two 14-year-olds connected to people in our SS class, both stricken with cancer. One has been given bad news this week. I always wonder why God heals some and not others. It is not for us to know. But I know we’ll have the answers someday when we’re all together. Let’s schedule a get-together for everyone who has prayed for you in this journey. Wouldn’t that be a wonderful time when we all get to heaven - many years from now???!!!
by DawnSweet Heather, Cancer is a terribly hard learning experience…but the Lord has allowed your fight against this terrible disease to challenge and encourage many. And you are growing in the difficult school of incredibly hard experience. You are learning (as Jesus himself did) compassion through what you are suffering. You are also finding by your experience that there is no place where you cannot be assured that you are surrounded by God’s love for you. He was not surprised by your cancer, but long before your diagnosis He had put in place doctors, nurses, facilities, treatments, and blogging to carry you through. You and your beautiful mom are such an encouragement when you are just being real about the hard times.
by JBRight now I’m in a hospital in Seattle to help with the care of my 14 year old grandson, Christian, who has just undergone his 2nd bone marrow transplant in a year as treatment for an extremely aggressive leukemia. We have found, as you did, that people from far and away join us and uphold us in prayer. It is just amazing.
God bless your heart with His peace and joy. Judy
When I read your blog I see a fellow Jesus lover…not just a woman with cancer. It is part of your faith story. You inspire me.
by DebraI too don’t always post because I don’t see how you can get through all of them as it is. But, since you do, I will try to do better and post more often. I don’t often have anything new to add that has not been said, but realize you need to know we love you and are praying for you and even just saying that is enough. So, love you girl! and am praying for you!
by Amy TI’m all teary-eyed, here, too!
by Our Seven QtpiesYour faith inspires me. I have a young cousin walking a tough cancer road, she is 16. her faith amazes and humbles me! She told her mom that God had told her why she was going through this, but that she was not going to tell anyone until she was through it.
She gets up and rides her horse, lassos her cow when it gets loose, and keeps on living her life. Frequent bad times plague her, but I know and believe that she is going to make it and that God’s purpose is going to be revealed in a mighty way!
His purpose in your journey through this, and the thousands of people who it is touching, is going to be revealed one day, too.
You are indeed an inspiration and Jesus shines right through your life! One of my “life verses” is John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in my you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world!”
I have a son who has had drug problems for many years and is currently in jail and facing prison. When I read your blog it is like balm on my broken heart. Nancy in Panama City
by NancyI’m so grateful for how gracious God is to us. He knows exactly what we will need and when we will need it and He sets us up in advance to be ready to receive from Him when the time comes. Obviously many have walked where you’re walking without the support and prayers of thousands reading their story online, but He chose to have you and your blog in just the right place at the right time so that you could bless us and we could bless you. HE TRUSTED YOU with an audience because He knew He would be pleased and honored and glorified by the music you would make as you walk with Him on this journey, highs, lows and all. How incredible that we all get to encourage you as you encourage us. If that’s not the Body of Christ, I don’t know what is.
by Melissa MayDear Heather..
by TerryEveryday when I go to Donna’s site and see her little prayer list, I am always glad to see your name.
If only you knew how encouraging you are to your invisible friends.
I really admire you,
You post everyday and sometimes I am so lazy withmy own site that I figure…oh I may as well take a day off and usually that “day off” adds up to more days off and so it goes for a week…
And here you are in all your sickness just keeping on up!
God Bless you…Love Terry
Sweet Heather - That’s what this Christian life is all about - loving one another. We love you and pray for you. You are our sister, our daughter, our dear friend. In turn you bless us with your faith and sweet spirit.
by LindaMy life has been so buoyed by your journey, Heather- I simply cannot go a day without visiting you. You have led me to a more deep love and faith in our Lord and for that I am ever grateful.
by Regina Clare Janexo
Dear sweet Heather,
Your trust in the Lord shines through. You are truly a blessing to all of us. Lifting you in prayer Heather!
Colorado Springs, Colorado
by KimberlyDear Heather, I started reading here before this part of your journey began. I watched you progress with grace, giving God all the glory, and depending on Him for strength.
While I have not walked through a battle with cancer, I have had my own hard battle and found that the surest solace is found in our Savior’s arms, His hands, His heart, His love.
For you, for me, and for others suffering I wrote a post a while back. I was too shy to post it here before, but you can jump over and find it, know you were in my heart as I wrote. I am praying!
Shalom and Blessings, Kim
http://randomthoughtsandotherfunthings.blogspot.com/2007/06/walk-through-valley.html
by kimHeather, You and your site have been a tremendous comfort to me. I start chemo tomorrow. I will follow that up with 36 radiatiion treatments. Then I get to take hormone therapy x5 years or more. I have been coming by your site several times a day. I stand in admiration of your strength, faith, and attitude. You are acheiving your goal of guiding people to Jesus. I am a Christian but have felt very wobbly in my faith and courage. (My husband has recently been diagnosed with ALS, Lou Gerhig’s disease. I can easily live without my breasts but I don’t know how I will bear losing him.) I believe that God has us both in his hands and will do what is best for us. I feel like my life has been turned up-side down, though. I find comfort, and strength here. God IS using you to help others. Thanks to you and to Him.
by RobinBe blessed today dear Heather. I pray for you every morning when I wake up and also for your little girl, hubby and the rest of your little ones. I am adding your mom to this now since you mentioned what a blessing she has been for you. I pray for her to be strong as she has to see you walk this path. I have trouble with sadness/depression and starting each day has been hard sometimes because of so many disappointments in life, divorce, depressed/paranoid son, and just the responsibilities I have had as a single mom for so many years but in reality I am truly blessed by God in many other countless ways. You have helped me grow back into my faith in God through the trials. Thank you for your testimony. Blessings.
by Abiga/karenOh, I forgot. I am from Illinois near Chicagoland and the Indiana border. Blessings again!!!
by Abiga/karenI have a woman in one of my Bible studies who has difficulties accepting the suffering God has allowed in her life. We were discussing it again today and I had just come across a list that I have of the reason God allows suffering in our lives. I should post that on my blog. But, one of the reasons is that the way we respond to suffering is a testimony to others. Remember Job said, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust Him.” Job 13:15 We can cling to His character. He is so good, He is a loving Father and a Faithful covenant Keeper so He must have a reason for allowing this pain. He loves you, Heather.
by jennyWhen I was going through infertility I remember wanting to be known solely as “a child of God” and not the “girl who wanted a baby”. You’re understood. :-)
by AnonymousHey Heather,
The comments blew me away too I have read alot of them but no way could I read them all!! It would be so uplifting to have that many people praying for you my word!!! I counting you have 4 people that I know through the blogs who have cancer and so need prayer. 3 of them have lukemia and need so much prayer.
How is Emma? She must be doing well I have not heard anything lately about her. I hope she is ok. I also know before your diagnoses you took your other two out to home school, are you still doing that, or is it to much for you at this time?
Take care Heather, and Blessings to you.
by Paulette1958That’s what it’s all about right? Sharing one another’s burdens! And lifting one another up in prayer!!! God bless! D
by DawnYou are a shining example of a modern day Job. To see how you are handling the valley you are walking through is an amazing testimony to God’s incredible faithfulness. I know it is only through the grace of the Lord that you are able to do what you are doing with such grace. We tend to look at difficult situations and think, “I could never go through that. I just don’t have the grace and strength to make it through something so difficult.” That’s true…we don’t. God gives us just what we need, for the moment we are in and the difficulties we are currently facing. I pray that if I am every to face a similiar circumstance that I will face it with the grace and dignity you have shown. In the process of healing you, God is using you in amazing ways to touch people all over the world. What the enemy intended for evil, God is certainly using for your good and for His ultimate glory.
He is smiling down on you Heather and is so proud of His daughter!
by AngelaHey there Heather! Mixed emotions here… can’t explain. I remember my own dad undergoing chemotherapy and all.
I am praying for you. It’s just amazing how one could take burdens so easily with Jesus beside him. He does wonders! He is the medicine that heals what should be healed. Continue to hang on to HIS love. It helps to just have FAITH, even if, at times, we can’t understand why things are happening.
by roseYou bless us. Stay strong. Praying for you.
by ChupieandJsmama“And he gently pushes my outstretched arm back to my chest, cup still resting in its original place.”
Isn’t the Lord GREAT!!!!!!! He has not left you alone. NO!! Not for one moment!! He is close enough to even push the cup back into its original place. And in a time that can be so dark, He becomes SOOOOO much more REAL, doesn’t He??? He is The Rock- cling!! He is The Living Water- drink deeply!!! He is The Light of the World- behold Him!!!
I am praying for you, dear sister-in-Christ!!!
His,
by Mrs. UShari
Heather,
You are always going to be a girl who has had cancer. We can’t erase that from your testimony, but it is a part — a huge part — of your testimony that shows how God has truly worked in your life. We don’t sign up for these things, no– in no way do we– but the Lord is working through you. You are reaching others and you are showing them that the Lord is good! You are reminding them that our path isn’t the easiest one. As Christians, we have challenges, but the rest of the world stands back with their breath held to see how we contend.
My husband and I lost our first daughter. It could have destroyed us. Instead, we’ve done as you have done. We’ve given it to the Lord. All of it. We were able to show that it has only pulled us together more. It’s given us a way to speak to others who might not know about His wonders. And you know what? We have a beautiful adopted little girl who is just the most precious light in our lives. He gave her to us. We share our story about her, too.
We are given these stories, special and tough stories. Know His love is true. (Yes, I know you know.) You are special, my friend. Know that you are loved.
by Bailey's LeafFound your site just before you were diagnosed. A few weeks after your diagnosis, my dad was diagnosed with lung cancer. Surgery was unsuccessful and he is now doing radiation everyday and chemo 1x per week. Reading your posts gives me insight that I just don’t get from my dad, and I so appreciate you and your openess. May the Lord demolish every cancer cell in your body give you day to day strength that you need.
by DanaOh, my Heather, The verse I was thinking of in my earlier post actually says that Jesus learned obedience (Does not state “compassion”) by the things He suffered. Wouldn’t want to miss-state scripture….
In these difficult times we sure find out what the Word calls the sacrifice of praise…remembering He is worthy even when we feel we are too overwhelmed to feel spontaineous praise. You said it so very well “Life doesn’t have to be perfect in order to be wonderful”
by JBHugs to you, little sister,
Judy
WOW WOW WOW. Chills and tears to see a zillion people representing a zillion cities from all of the WORLD praying for YOU! What a great idea to ask people to share where they are from!
by CindyDear Heather,
You brought tears to my eyes yet again by your transparent, honest posts. I can’t imagine going through what you have had to. What’s amazing and beautiful is how you give God the glory and praise for it. Lots of people can “talk” the Christian talk but it takes a strong believer to “walk” it like you are. It makes my heart so happy to read that you are uplifted and encouraged by reading everyone’s posts. I know for me, I post comments here for you for that very reason. You made me smile and cry by your words. I am still praying for you and your family. My only regret? I’ve never had the blessing of meeting you face to face (: You are very strong and very blessed. It’s quite obvious that many here care about you and are daily sending up prayers on your behalf. I pray that on the “can’t get off the couch days”, all of these people will continue to minister to you. God is amazing and has carried so many people through similar crisis’ and He’ll do the same for you. Keep focused on beating this cancer and know that many are thinking and praying for you. Best wishes!
Molly (:
BTW, you looked stunning in your scarf! Not many people can pull that look off but you sure did!
by MollyI am humbled to offer up my little prayers on your behalf, dear Heather.
I feel so weak and puny so often with the circumstances I face, the pain I carry each and every day. Then I come and read and cry along with you as you lose your hair, fight violent sickness from the treatment that is to make you better, and wonder how it feels to go through a time of not being able to speak, even to those I love so dearly.
I am bolstered and encouraged each and EVERY time I come here, my precious sister in Christ. I will continue to offer up my prayers on your behalf and know that God is hearing. Yes, He is hearing.
Consider this my hug to you today. May God hold you in His strong and capable arms, dearest Heather.
by peachHeather -
You are amazing! Just amazing - everyday I come here, sometimes posting, sometimes not - sometimes even feeling unworthy of posting here. Your life, your amazing will to live, your amazing love for yourself, your family and God are, in my eyes, nothing short of, well, Amazing!
I have no idea how you have done it, I continue to struggle with my journey with God, I had a mentor helping lead me though, teaching me and being a sister in faith, - but she’s been MIA for several weeks - I just feel lost, then I come here and read your story - your strength and love - and I am amazed by it!
I can’t imagine going though what you are, and yet I find myself wishing everyone felt what you ARE going though - not that I would wish it on anyone, I never would or could - but, in some weird way, I believe what you are going though, is a gift - you do live everyday like it could be your very last - you remember to “smell the roses” as it were - and ENJOY what’s going on around you, your children’s smiles, the smell of the world right after a good rain, the beauty of your children playing happily together.
I had that “zest” for life, as a child, sorta - but as an adult you get somewhat jaded, and though if your like me you know your not promised tomorrow, and sometimes pray that tomorrow would just not come - but you also get complacent, thinking that it’s going to - often time’s thinking that it’s going to be worse than today was - if you know what I mean?!
Anyway, I am praying for you - and I look up to you more than you could possibly know, you are an inspiration to me, I hope to be one day, where you are!
Many (((HUGS))) and lots of prayers!
by JennDear Heather,
You are truly living your life as Matthew 5:16 says, letting your light so shine beore men that they might see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Also, Psalm 61:2, I love, says- when my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I. And God heals the brokenhearted. Praying for you.
In His Love,
by CathyCathy
NC
I went to a class the other day, I had to write out my testimony and keep it down to three to five minutes. You write your testimony as Jesus writes upon the tablet of your heart, daily. What it was yesterday, it is not today. But each day you keep Jesus active and alive on your blog and in your heart. We have timelines in our hearts like History, before and after we are married , before and after we have children, before and after the Lord comes into our hearts. They are for reflecting, for strength and for hope. They are to encourage, reproof others and teaching. You are doing it all so well, and when we pray we say, And God bless Especially Heather, because she Especially blesses You.
Because of Jesus, Bobbie
by BobbieLoving you.
P.S. and BTW, sharing your story with friends who don’t blog, too, so the Lord’s reach really never ends. ((((((((hugs))))))))))
by Gretcheni agree with you about faith. there were sooooo many times during my treatment this past year that i felt as if a wave was lifting me up because of all the prayer that surrounded me. i am so blessed to have so many people , family, friends in my world. and now i am asking if you could think of my sons , 3, today and this weekend as our small community just lost 5 beautiful just graduated a week ago today from high school who were all tragically killed tuesday night in a horrific accident here in fairport new york. our community is devastated and my 2 sons, one of whom just graduated last week also is very very sadden by this lost. http://www.democratandchronicle.com explains the lost. we are just so sad today.
by marianne daltonOh Heather, EVERY single time I read your posts I am inspired and I find myself asking God to help my heart be more like yours. Do you know how many people I’ve told about you and how your words (ok, actually God’s words!) have enriched my life?! You are absolutely SO amazing and thousands upon thousands of people are able to see, “This is how a Christian walks through hard times.” You are a living model of faith in action, and you are a hero to me. Thank you, thank you. You have my love, continual prayers, and deepest admiration!
Martha in Lancaster, PA
by MarthaI read your blog each day. I don’t often post, because I think who am I? But you do need to know you touch so many out here in blog land. You post such uplifting, and truthful things. If only we all would look up when things are down. If only we all could take what you say and listen in the dead of night, when all the fear strikes. You are an amazing person!
by Kandi