Throwing our whole being into winning

See? I told you I would post today.

We were able to make the doctor's appointment today and things are in motion. Mike told Dr. Khan we want to go to the Cleveland Clinic for a consult and second (or third or fourth? who is counting anymore) opinion. Dr. Khan was very agreeable and his office has started the process for that event. We need referrals in place and reports faxed over etc. We are hoping that we can go sometime in August if not before.

Mike's platelets are up to 70 and now we are going forth with making the arrangements for a new port and a feeding tube. I am nervous about the feeding tube. We are actually getting a G Tube which is inserted in Mike's stomach. We are trying to by pass the esophagus which keeps closing up like clock work every 3 weeks. The feeding tube is exciting on one hand. Mike will be able to take medicine and juices and so many other things that we have not been able to do. It is very scary on the other hand. There is a risk that the cancer can grow along the tube, even shutting off that tube. I am still asking if this is God's will for Mike. It is a new and untried thing in this road. We are both now very comfortable with PICC lines, IV's, and Ports. Feeding tubes, not so much. But Mike will be able to shower and he will now no longer need to carry around the IV bag 14 hours a day. Prayer is all I can think of with this one.

We will be getting a Port during the same procedure. This means that Mike will wean off the TPN and eventually get the PICC line pulled. Once all these procedures are in place, we will start hitting other therapies in this Cancer Journey. However, it is still one day at a time.

We have plans for the weekend that include a night at the lake. We are both looking forward to it and I am still amazed at God's hand.

Vacation?? Maybe... We are supposed to leave on Friday. It depends on the procedures. If we can get them done Monday or Tuesday, then Mike will probably be able to go. If they want to do them Thursday or Friday, we will just postpone until after our vacation. Again, prayer. Wait on God to answer.

I came across this great devotional that I had to share. It is our journey past, present and future. The message that went with this devotional is Psalms 30.

O My child, do not weep. I am doing a beautiful work. Stress and pressure and pain are often the path to victory and understanding. Penitence is a mother to purity and contrition a father to total consecration.

I am in the midst, and I am a strong deliverer. You need not be concerned. You must not be sad. Courage is the greatest contribution you can make at this point. To be strong now will make the part of recovery easier. Faith is an essential ingredient in every solution.. often it is the solution itself.

Never underestimate the power of FAITH. Faith is your ability to bring Divine Action to bear upon any given situation. Hold fast. Trust. Unseen angels assist you. Doors are opening to let you pass into safety.

Pour all the intensity of your soul into serving Me and you will receive great consolation. It is My way provided for you solace and preservation. I will bring you other mercies as I see you have need.

Be Strong! I will measure the trials according to your strength and My mercy, but I expect you to stand true. No one can do this FOR you.

It is your supreme hour of destiny. Throw your whole being into winning.

Prayer requests:
Protection and that God continues His healing in Mike
Wisdom with these medical procedures. We feel like this is the right step, but are nervous. We ask for confirmation or that God puts up road blocks.
Cleveland Clinic and or the next step in this journey. That doors open for truly miraculous results.
That glorifying God will be our focus in all the upcoming journeys.
Details.. God will handle all the details both medically and for our living situation.

Praises:
America - Happy Birthday and thank you to all those who stepped out in Faith so long ago.
Rest
Dear friends
Firework stands... Wow! The stuff is amazing
One more day