We struggle to bring you news on Mary’s battle with cancer. We are now approaching an eighth year in this struggle. We wish we could say that she has won and in many ways we have. The doctors are telling us that she will return “home” within the year. We are hopeful that God has a different plan, but we are also at peace knowing these days are presents from Him to enjoy time together with family and friends. Please continue to keep us in your prayers, for we know how powerful it is and what a comfort it has brought us in this struggle.

Having shared the hardest part of the news let us share the more optimistic side of things. Working with her oncologist, Mary has started one more round of chemotherapy. She continues to lead a normal life as much as possible. This includes work; going in to the office on many days or working remotely from home when she feels tired. Side effects of the treatment are minimal. Our major concern is that the cancer has attacked the liver and its function has been compromised. We are hoping the treatment will push the cancer back. Ultimately it is in God’s hands to determine if the cancer retreats or the liver shuts down.

Your prayers, cards, letters and emails are welcome. If you are in the neighborhood we invite you to drop in; but be aware she is not always at home.

Let us close by sharing a couple of thoughts. The first by Stuart Scott, a cancer survivor, at the 2014 ESPY Awards:
“You beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and the manner in which you live.”

The second from the apostle Paul in his letter to the Phiiippians 1:21-24:
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.”

 

May the peace and grace of Christ be with you. …Mike, Sarah & Rebecca