Sunday, December 19, 2010
Dear Friends and Family,
Celebrating brother John's birthday today as he joined our family a week after I turned 13. Guess that was a long time ago. We are still at cabin in GA thawing our from a snowfall that gave the local kids 4 snow days last week. It was beautiful, but we did not venture off the mountain top for several days. Had a very thankful Thanksgiving with Kathy and Kristy's families joining us. Looking so forward to Julie's family coming after Christmas. Much to celebrate after our year of doctor appointments....cancer free diagnosis...jobs for sons in laws and college kids...super grades at all levels of school...fun times with grandkids' sports activities...recovery from concussions for Terri and Tyler....exciting first year teaching position for Kara...good reviews from Sanford airport for Kevin...upcoming outreach trip for Kristin...sale of our home and stress free relocation to Lutheran Haven...good health for Gary...approaching year 95 for Mom Fink...and the blessings go on and on . Continually we thank God for each of you and what you mean to us. You are cherished and loved. In church today we were reminded to be strong and do not fear. That is the Christmas message....we have been given a Savior who came to forgive us and give us eternal life. What a gift. We sang the beautiful verse: Be near me Lord Jesus I ask thee to stay, close by me forever and love me I pray. Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care, and take us to Heaven to live with Thee there. That is our prayer. IICor 9:15 says Thank God for this gift, His gift. No language can praise it enough.
Special prayer requests include: Nancy, Judy, Suzanne, Mark, Amy and my radiation friends.
Love and hugs to each of you, Carol Lynn and Gary

Thursday November 18, 2010
My journey began in January and we carried the words in Joshua 1:9 on our heart..."Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." A wonderful promise to hold on to for the past 11 months. November 5 marked my last radiation treatment. God willing...my cancer journey is over. He put so many special people in my life through it all which included my TERRIFIC husband, family, friends, doctors, nurses, technicians, and other patients. For this we are thankful . I celebrated with a trip to the mall with my family to get my ears pierced for the first time in all my years. Fun! At Ascension we had a wonderful jubilee banquet with over 300 attending. Last Sunday we were able to rekindle our friendship with our All Saints family in Blairsville, GA. Were able to come to the mountains for several weeks. Family and friends will join us during this time. We look forward to each visit. Tyler's soccer team will travel to NC for a soccer tournament this weekend. Joe and Sam had terrific football seasons with Sam being named the defensive player of the year. Can't wait to hear Lauren read her books to me and spend time with the rest of her family. Terri's varsity basketball season is just beginning and Tyler made the freshman team. Anxious to have Kathy's Atlanta family join us at cabin and for Kara to fly home for Christmas. We have been blessed with beautiful fall weather here in Blue Ridge as we visit with our new neighbors. Am requesting prayers for my radiation friends Laura, Christine,Patricia, Linda as they continue to deal with their struggles; for Marion's great lab report; for all those travelling over the holidays; and thanksgiving to God for His presence in my life. As IThess. 5:18 says, "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." We send our love and hugs to each of you, Carol Lynn and Gary

Sunday, October 24, 2010
I am down to 2 weeks and 1 day of treatments...but who is counting? I will miss all of my radiation friends (patients and technicians) that God has put in my life for these 6 weeks. We have been blessed to make connections with so many dear friends recently. Dave and MaryBeth Hasz came from TX and we shared our chemo stories. Our former Winter Park cul de sac neighbors, the Mahaffeys and Gilliams, joined us for a wonderful evening of memories that began in 1976. Next week we will visit with former Pastor Willmann and wife, Pam, who will be in town for our church's jubilee celebration. Our Lutheran Haven Flea Market was a gigantic success in raising funds for nursing home patients. Gary and I helped and were able to meet up with Greenbriar neighbors, Mary Ann and Peter, and Rockledge friends (from 1966 on) Tammy, Don and Ginny Anderson. God is so awesome to put such special people in our lives and we sincerely thank Him. Celebrated son in law Keith's 50th birthday at surprise party at Greek restaurant. Lots of good food, dancing and fun. Get updates regularly on soccer from Houston kids and Tyler; as well as football happenings from Sam and Joe. Beautiful worship today praising our Holy Lord, God Almighty who molds us and shapes us through tests and trials to know Him better. James 1:2-6 Prayers are requested for Laura, Marion, Suzanne, Judy, John and my radiation friends for their individual struggles. Love and hugs to each of you from both of us, Carol Lynn and Gary

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Will be celebrating a big 50 birthday today for son in law, Keith. What a blessing he has been to our family. Just said goodbye to Gary's brother, Roger, who came from Maryland to spend several days with Mom Fink. Was a good visit. I see that it is National Daughter's Week. Just wanted to mention that we have 3 of the best. They have been such a support and blessing to Gary and me through all of their years. God has also enriched us with so many friends and extended family who have carried us through this unexpected year of cancer treatments. Hope you know how special and uplifting all your cards, calls, hugs, emails and facebook notes have been for us. One does not travel these roads by themselves. Last Monday was a milestone...as my port was removed. That means no more chemo. Thank you, Lord. We are getting ready to help at flea market at Haven. Funds are raised for those in nursing home whose funds have been depleted. Get regular updates on football for Sam and Joe. Will see a game shortly...as my radiation treatments (33) will be done by Nov. 8. We will be packed and head to GA soon after.
Last week's worship reminded us that God works through every trial. It is true. A verse that has been special to me comes from Ps 91:14-16..."Because he loves me, says the Lord, I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation." Prayers are requested for our friend, Jessica, who had thumb surgery from a soccer injury; Duane, Suzanne and Margaret for continued healing; Judy for direction for her doctors; protection and help for Jay's team that is working in Haiti this week and praise and thanksgiving for all He has done for me.
We send our love and prayers in your direction, Carol Lynn and Gary

September 22, 2010
Today was the first of my 33 radiation treatments. So far no changes that I am aware of. As Phillipians 4:13 says, "For I can do all things in Christ who gives me the strength." Our Holy God is amazing the way He cares for us. Last week I had a PET scan and CT scan of chest. Doctor called PET results "beautiful" and CT showed no metastatic disease. Thank you, Lord.
"Nothing is impossible with God," Luke 1:37. So many promises in His Word to hold on to daily. Following our move to Lutheran Haven on 8/19 Gary and I were able to spend 2 weeks in GA. Was a wonderful retreat for us. Worshipped with our dear All Saints family in Blairsville. Helped with their very successful yard sale and got to know our new neighbors. Had a terrific Labor Day weekend with Kathy's family who came from Atlanta...and again at Sam's football game. Back in FL we are continuing our studies of the "Holiness of God" and the book of Daniel. Meeting more LH neighbors and are convinced that this is a good place for us at this time. Love showing our unit to friends. Recently entertained old Greenbriar neighbors and friends from church. Julie's family has homecoming week at high school. Tyler's soccer team keeps winning and Terri's basketball is going well. We miss being in on Kristy's family activities in TX. We get to spend night at B & B in NSB Sunday as a gift from Julie's family for our anniversary. Friends, Corrine, Lonnie, Mary and Gene recently received their heavenly crowns. We pray for peace for their families. Congrats to newly engaged nephews: Erik and Aneta and David and Steffi. Prayer requests for Sheri, Margaret, Suzanne, Duane, Judy, Barb and Mary Ann T. for their health issues. We are so blessed to have you as our dear friends and family. Thanks for lifting us up when we need it. You are in our prayers as well. Love, Carol Lynn and Gary

Tuesday, August 31, 2010
We are at the cabin in the mountains for 2 weeks before my 6 1/2 weeks of daily radiation begins. Left MD Anderson after ringing the bell with my graduation certificate for completion of my chemo that began March 22. A very sincere and humble thank you to all of my prayer partners who lifted me up during that time. Our Great Physician held my hand throughout, kept side effects to a minimum and healed me. He is awesome and I give all praise to Him. Our Bible study group is discussing His Holiness. Wow. Attended healing service at Sat. church and Sunday's sermon highlighted "Discipleship" where Jesus ties us together and calls us into a relationship with Him. It entails loving, serving and telling...as well as risks, trust and sacrifice. As the song says..."Our God is greater, stronger and higher than any other...He is our healer and is awesome in power." Yes. Since my last blog we have packed boxes, moved to Lutheran Haven unit, unpacked boxes and closed on our house. What a whirlwind. It feels so right for us. We had wonderful helpers with family and friends. Thank you. Think we are the babies on the block. Gary's 94 year old Mom lives across the street from us. Our grandkids are back to school, college and jobs that include teaching and baggage handler for Sanford airport. Also involved in soccer, basketball and football. Sammy the Bull made his first touchdown. Yeh! Prayer requests include: Sheri, Margaret, Gretchen, Barb P., Gene, Debra, Duane, Chris, Stacy for their health issues. I liked Gary's comment as we left hospital when he said, "Today is the first day of the rest of my life after chemo." We are so blessed! Love to each of you, Carol Lynn and Gary

August 11,2010
Just got home from our anniversary dinner celebrating our 46 years of marriage. God has been so good to us as we look back over those years. He's given us loving family and faithful friends, years of work, and recently years of retirement. Most of all, He gave us His Son to set us free. We said goodbye to our TX kids after a wonderful visit. Kristy drove kids to Atlanta and down to FL, so the cousins could spend time together. Got to see lots of WPHS friends at reunion picnic. Our days have been full of packing boxes for our move to Lutheran Haven unit on the 19th. It will be a new chapter that we are looking forward to. Kristin and Kevin are back in college. Kara drove back to WY for her first teaching job, and the rest of the grandkids are in or waiting for school to begin again. Began an awesome study on "The Holiness of God." Sunday's worship topic was "the life God builds us into being people of purpose"...that whatever we do-we do to the glory of God. We continue to seek where God is leading us. I am down to 3 more chemo treatments after completing 13. It's been a long journey...but He has held my hand through it all with very few side effects. I praise and thank Him for His protection and making me cancer free at this time. Prayer requests are for a second successful shoulder surgery for sister in law, Gretchen; healing from a stroke for Stacy, successful surgery for Sheri on the 17th and comfort for Gary's Aunt Helen who just lost her 63 yr old son, Dennis, to diabetes complications. We thank you for being a special part of our lives and pray that all is well with each of you.
Love, Carol Lynn and Gary

Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Just had a great visit with Kathy and kids in FL. They loved Julie's pool and being with cousins.
Kathy is keeping busier with her new job proofreading Bibles. Looking forward to Kristy's visit for 20 year WPHS reunion after their family camp, Austin (11) and Tyler's (9) double birthday parties and Austin's baseball tournament (2nd place). Julie heads to Atlanta and Terri's 2nd basketball tournament followed by a few days at cabin. Tyler enjoys lots of soccer after an awesome student life retreat at Daytona with Chris Tomlin. Kevin keeps busy loading and unloading baggage at Sanford Airport. Anything to be near airplanes. Kara ended her dude ranch employment and is driving across the plains to trade cars before her teaching job begins. Kristin is finishing up her math class with flying colors, while Sam begins his football practices. Our BIG news is "a contract on our house" in Winter Springs with a closing date in August. Our Lutheran Haven unit cabinets arrived, so work can continue there. What a whirlwind. God is taking such good care of us....as always. I am down to 6 more chemo treatments followed by radiation. It has been a long journey since January diagnosis. During treatments I read "There's No Place Like Hope" given to me by my high school friend, Judy, who was also diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer 7 years ago. The author reminds me that, "I was drafted, but you enlisted...you walked through the darkness with us because you choose to...you are our heroes, our support, our inspiration, our reason for fighting." Thank you for this gift, for your love and your prayers. Carol Lynn and Gary

Sunday, June 27, 2010
Our weekend began with 16 year old grandson, Jacob, returning from his Youth Group's mission trip to Cherokee. His highlight of the week was meeting 10 year old Eric with whom Jacob shared his "Jesus story" at the end of the week. We praise God for Jacob's bold witness to his new friend. Today was a beautiful day of worship and fellowship with our Ascension family. Readings focused on our freedom in Christ ...the fruits of the Spirit...and to follow Christ means to focus on His cross. Sunday night Bible class discussion on Ezekiel kept repeating the words, "Know that I am the Lord." Very uplifting weekend to carry me into my #3 Taxol chemo treatment tomorrow. He has been by my side with minimal side effects and I praise Him for His continued faithfulness. One of our hymns today stated..take my hand and lead me..I will fear no foe..in peace I go. So that is my direction for tomorrow. Then Gary and I will head back to the mountains for more R & R and hopefully a little relief from the Florida heat. We will leave Kevin on his road to recovery and place friends Duane, Jerry, Sheri, Judy M., Barb P in His healing hands. A prayer of thanksgiving is lifted for sister, Mary Ann's good CAT scan and the peace that that brings. We continue to clean out Winter Springs house for our move to Lutheran Haven cottage that will happen in August. We feel so blessed with all the prayers that are said on our behalf and the love that we feel from all our friends and family. We hope that your summer is going well and that you get to experience some relaxation along the way. Love to all, Carol Lynn and Gary

Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Yesterday's chemo #2 of Taxol went well and Kevin is getting stronger everyday. We praise and thank God for these blessings. As Joshua 1:5 says, " I will never leave you nor forsake you." It is true ..He is by our side and walks with us daily. Worship this weekend was awesome. Sermons dealing with the life of David reminded us to look to our past and see His deliverance and then look to the future and trust the same. Sang my guiding song on my cancer treatment journey " Great is Thy faithfulness" with highlights of "strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow", "blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside," "morning by morning new mercies I see," "all I have needed Thy hand hath provided...Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me." How beautiful and reassuring. On Purpose Bible study dealt with us being made for a mission...His mission of bringing His Good news to all so one day we can all live together in Heaven. It is all wrapped up in His story found in John 3:16, " For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. " What a promise for all of us. As I close, I ask you to lift up my sister, Mary Ann, for good CAT scan results on Friday...as well as good MRI results for Sheri and Jerry...and continued healing for friend, Judy M. You are all dear to our hearts. We are so blessed with your friendship and your prayers. Love to all, Carol Lynn and Gary

June 16, 2010
This would have been Mom's 97th birthday...but she's been celebrating them in heaven for the past few years. Been reading "Secure in the Everlasting Arms" by Elisabeth Elliot, whose husband was killed by the Quichua Indians in Ecuado where he was a missionary. Very timely thoughts...reminding us that we shall find the impossible possible and the unendurable endurable...that love equals joy which equals peace...that whatever my lot-it is well...that sickness is forced leisure...and 2 Cor 12:7-9 "My grace is all you need..for power comes to its full strength in weakness." Good thoughts to dwell on in our busy lives. We are giving thanks for 19 year old grandson, Kevin's return home from 5 days in the hospital. Went in on Friday with 104 fever and was finally diagnosed with mycoplasma pneumonia. He's on meds and will continue to need lots of rest. I started my second set of chemo (Taxol) treatments on Monday with no side effects so far. Will have 11 more weeks of Taxol followed by my radiation. God has been surrounding me with love, friends, good nurses, wonderful husband and family and good health throughout these months. I am so thankful for all of that. Gary and I got to spend 5 days in GA with grandchildren Sam (11) and Anna (8). Lots of fun and games. Found out that their sister, Kara, was offered a teaching job in Lander, Wyoming following her summer at the dude ranch. Julie and Kristy's families met up at Branson while Tyler and Austin attended Kanakuk camp. Then Julie had to fly home early to take care of Kevin. Hopefully your summer is going well and that all the Father's have a special day on Sunday. Love to all, Carol Lynn and Gary

Wednesday, May 12, 2010
"Life is precious" is driven home to me daily....for so many reasons. We traveled to Rockledge for the funeral of our former Pastor Schlessmann who has been our friend for 37 years. He got to go "home" at the age of 85 after surgery complications. Saw many ole friends. Received a call from college graduate, Kara, who is excited about her summer job at Turpin Meadows Dude Ranch near Jackson Hole. College kids, Kevin and Kristin, are getting a break at home and working at summer jobs already. Awesome Bible Class last night on topic "How Big is Your God" from PDL series on Surrender Your Life for God's Pleasure. Discussion opens our eyes daily to His power, His love for us and His faithfulness to all His promises. Read Ps 145 and were reminded again what God is really like...it is endless. So as we try to follow God's lead...we wait for HIS timing, we expect a miracle and we trust God's purposes...all without knowing the where, when, how and whys. That is real Trust. Looking forward to a quick week in GA before chemo #4. My oncologist says I am cancer free and my chemo is for prevention. We praise God for His goodness. When we get back we will celebrate Tyler's 8th grade graduation, Terri's "Sweet 16", Jen's and Jeff's graduations, Father's Day, birthdays for Julie, Erik, Kristy and Ross...plus their 15th anniv. So happy to have nephew, Mark, and Lindsey living in Orlando. That way we get to see brother, Jim, and Gretchen. Our friends, Duane, Judy M., Larry, Marybeth and Barb P. need prayers as all are having medical issues. Celebrating Jubilee at Ascension tomorrow with lots of activities. We are so blessed and remain so grateful for your prayers and friendship through the years.

Saturday, May 1, 2010
Getting ready for 3rd chemo treatment on 5/3. Have experienced God's faithfulness to me in so many ways as I look back to January when my cancer journey began. I have experienced daily peace; physical strength and energy; love, prayers and encouragement from my loving husband, our kids, grandkids, extended family, church families in Casselberry and Blairsville, Bible study partners, hairdressers who assisted with shaving my head and styling my wigs, FBI and Audubon Park families, high school and college pals, neighbors, doctors and nurses, facebook and email buddies and the list goes on.... I am so blessed. Gary and I enjoyed our 9 days in the mountains taking in the beauty of His creation all around us. We are so proud of our 1st grandchild, Kara, who graduates May 8 from Belhaven college and Tyler who will move on to Winter Springs High School next year, and Lauren who graduates from pre school. Lots of baseball and soccer for Dorsetts; Tyler is into his State Cup tournaments and Terri had a roll with 3 three point baskets on Sat. Kevin and Kristin are in finals week and last days at school.
So much exciting times with 12 grandkids. We love it. As I close, I'm reminded of the great hymn: Great is Thy faithfulness, Great is Thy faithfulness, Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed Thy hand hath provided-Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me. Blessings on your days ahead and thank you for being so special in my life.

April 17, 2010
It has been a while since I updated blog...so here goes. Beautiful day in Orlando today. It started with our great Bible study group at 7:30 am discussing Rick Warren's chapters on "You were shaped to serve God." What an awesome task...to be a Kingdom builder...with all my heart...for His glory. Last night was a special family night with dinner with Julie's family, Kevin and Jen and Grandma. We are so blessed. So proud of granddaughter, Terri, who was one of four Sophomores to be invited to join the National Honor Society this week. My week began with chemo #2 on Monday and a Neulasta WBC booster shot on Wed. I am now 1/2 way through the first 4 sessions of chemo. God has been holding my hand each step of the way. We feel your powerful prayers and have been covered with energy and His peace. Since we have a few weeks before chemo #3, we will head to GA on Tuesday for some respite in the mountains. Anxious to see our All Saints family since we could not join them on Easter Sunday. Have had some showings of our Winter Springs home and the workers at Lutheran Haven have been gutting our unit there. Special prayer requests include care for our friends, Duane and Larry; grandson, Tyler Dorsett who will have a procedure on Monday; sister in law, Cindy as she cares for her Mom who is hospitalized with broken hip and pneumonia in Chicago and thankgiving for sister, Mary Ann's good report.
2Cor 3:5 reminds us,"Our sufficiency is from God." That's all we need. Love and thanks to all of our dear dear friends.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Today was a day I won't forget for awhile. Since my hair was coming out in handfuls since Sunday, it was time to shave it all off. Gary was and has been my strong support every step of the way. He watched as Polly, my GA hairdresser who went through mastectomy a few years ago, gently sheared me clean as a whistle. Thought it was a good idea to save Julie and Patty, my FL hairdresser, from this task. Polly also styled my wig. So I am set with wig, scarves and hats to cover my bald head. We are enjoying the beautiful weather here in Blue Ridge...and the sunsets have been awesome. Have been continuing to feel great, so I hope that my WBC are all built up for chem #2 treatment on Monday. Will go back to FL on Friday and see our realtor's sign in our front yard. Then it is time to clean out extras that we do not want to move with us. Contractor at Lutheran Haven said he will have our unit gutted and ready to go 90 working days after he gets a permit. So we will have a spot in FL when the snows come to the mountain top. God has blessed us in so many ways. He sent us our Savior and he gave us so many terrific friends to walk beside us. We are so grateful. We pray that all is well with each of you.

Saturday, April 3, 2010

Blessed Easter to all of our friends and family. Because He lives, we shall live also. Hallelujah!!
We had permission to get on the road yesterday with all of the Easter travellers and spring break families and drive 11 hours to cabin for a few days. It is a wonderful respite..especially since I am at my low days in my chemo cycle (day 10-14) when my WBC is at its lowest. Doctor and Gary are not allowing me around crowds as my Thurs. blood test which was supposed to be minimum of 4.0 came back .9. Got 2 shots to boost my WBC and all is well. Had a busy few days as we celebrated Kevin's 19th birthday; had nephew Mark and wife Lindsey overnight while they search for housing for their move to Orlando; attended lymphodema clinic to learn more
stretch exercises and massages. Today we celebrate Jacob's 16th birthday. Got call on Sunday from neighbor at cabin who saw smoke coming up our mountain . He called 911 and we had 5 firetrucks, 15 firemen , 2 bulldozers and 5 neighbors with rakes, shovels and garden hoses fighting a brush fire. All is well...but it is nice to see it for ourselves. Last weekend Tyler's soccer team won both State cup games, so they are now in the final 8. Way to go. After much prayer we have listed our house in FL for sale. We have reserved a unit at Lutheran Haven that will be gutted and completed in 90 working days. That will allow us to spend a lot of cabin time once my chemo and radiation are completed . Too much commotion for me....but it is all very exciting. Again, we thank God for His protection and your prayers that we feel covering us every single day. We remember each of you in our prayers as well.
Love to all, Carol Lynn and Gary

Monday, March 22,2010
Lots has happened since I last wrote in my blog. Dr. Demers told us we could zip up to Georgia for a few days which we did. It was good medicine, especially when Kathy's family drove up to celebrate Gary's birthday. Was such a treat to worship with our All Saints family in Blairsville. We miss them a lot. When we returned to FL Kristy's family was here from TX for a week. Lots of dinners together, activities with Julie's kids, celebrated Tyler's 9th bday, visited the Butterfly Encounter, viewed soccer game...more fun. Dr. Demers took out my drain and told us that another 8 lymph nodes also came back negative- for a total of 14. Today I had my first chemo treatment. It went very smoothly and I will be faithful to take my anti nausea pills for a few days, so that it will continue. Yesterday a friend delivered a Chemo Caddy to me from their St Luke's Care Ministry. How awesome. It must have had 20 necessary items for comfort and things to pass the time with.
We continue to praise and thank God for His presence and healing for all His children including our friend Duane whose cancer was contained with no further treatments. My morning verse from Ps 18:2 reminded me that "the Lord is my Rock, my fortress, my deliverer..in whom I take refuge. He is my stronghold." That is so true and we are so blessed. Each of you is so special and loved by us. Thanks for standing with us.

, ,March 8, 2010
Will remember today as the day we received the wonderful news that the 8 nodes that Dr. Demers took last Thursday ALL came back NEGATIVE.
We are praising and thanking our great God for being our ROCK to hang onto through this cancer journey and my HEALER. Last week my oncologist, Dr. Shah told us that, "the cancer is gone...now we work on prevention." Wow! Chemo treatments will begin March 22 for 6 months followed by radiation. Will do my wig shopping soon. So we have permission to zip up to the cabin in GA for a few days. When we come back we can continue celebrating with Kristy's family who will come from TX. We have Tyler's 9th birthday, Joe's 13th, Kara's 22nd, Kevin's 19th, Jake's 16th and Gary's 70th to give thanks for. Wow! That's a lot of March birthdays. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Please add dear friends, Duane and Mary Ann, to your lists for strength and peace for the days ahead.
Much love and thanks to all of our faithful prayer warriors.
Gary and Carol Lynn

Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Just returned for post op appt with doctor who told us that 2 of 4 lymph nodes that he checked came back with cancer. So tomorrow I will go back for more surgery to take a larger section to analyze. The good news was that the margins that he took around the lump were clear, so there is no more cancer in my breast. God is so good and He will carry me through the latest detour in my path. We thank God for Gretchen's news that she is cancer free following her double mastectomy on Thurs, as well as Rosemary's eye surgery that went well yesterday. Looking forward to celebrating Grandma Fink's 94th birthday with family. Will hold on to the verse in my journal that Jessica chose for me for tomorrow's surgery from Ps 46:1..God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble.

Thursday, February 25, 2010
Well, surgery day came and is behind us now with Doctor Demers saying, "It was a GOOD day." That's all I needed to hear. Yes, God's promises are new every day. He was with me during my 2 hours of surgery that included lumpectomy with margins, port placement and removal of 4 lymph nodes ( 3 of which he thought looked good). So pathology will check them out and we will meet with surgeon on Wed. 3/3. Our prayer warriors have been mighty through the past 1 1/2 months of peaks and valleys. Thank you for standing by our side all the way. Your encouragement and lifting up gave us much peace and strength. Will see oncologist 3/4 (Grandma's 94th birthday) to plot my chemo schedule.
We pray that all of your lives are going well and we are so thankful for your emails, notes, cards, calls and visits to keep in touch. Friends are a true treasure.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Before we leave for my second pre op appt, I must tell about my "angel". At church we have been assigned as mentors for several confirmands. It has been very special for us. Well, yesterday Jessica's Mom delivered a book to me from Jessica. She gave me a journal . Each page for two whole months had a special Bible verse written at the top of the page that she handpicked for me. I still cry everytime I repeat my story about my angel...who is mentoring me as well as me mentoring her. Isn't God great the way He works in our lives.

Sunday, February 21, 2010
How blessed we are to be able to worship our Lord today with our family by our side as we enter our big week of surgery. What beautiful songs of praise with words, "all I am is yours," and "my soul I surrender to you, Lord,"....and message to have a steady focus and stay rooted as we walk in Him by faith...and pronouncement that our sins have been nailed to the cross and forgiven. How blessed we are...we don't know what tomorrow brings, but we know who holds it...and we have been given His peace. What more can we ask. We thank God for good heart test results for Rosemary. We pray for strength for Marybeth as she has her second chemo session and for Larry who is home from the hospital but will continue radiation treatments.

Thursday, February 18, 2010
After spending time watching Tyler in his soccer tournament, taking in a movie, enjoying a lunch with Gary's cousin, Lee, and wife, Marlene, immersing in Beth Moore's Believing God Bible study, and being in touch with so many family and friends...we now have our go ahead for surgery on Thursday, Feb. 25. So our 1 1/2 month wait is almost over. One week from today we will be looking ahead to setting up chemo treatments. We have truly felt Him holding our hand and giving us peace the whole way...just like He promises. His love for each of us is endless. You have been mighty prayer warriors on our behalf and we are humbled and grateful. Other special friends with medical issues to remember as well are Marybeth, Gretchen, Rosemary, Mark F, Mark M, Larry, Christa and Sylvia. As we begin our Lenten journey remembering our Savior's death on the cross for our sins our prayer is that God would "create a clean heart within us." All glory be to God .

Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Today was my bronchoscope with Dr. Johnston. He has such wonderful nurses to answer questions and put me at ease. Thank you Linda, Sally, Evelyn and Mary. Sunday's bulletin had the verse Mark 11:24 that caught my attention. "therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." Well, it is true. My CT scan of my pulmonary region showed an inflammation, but no cancer, no mass and the flushed fluids were sent to be analysed. Tomorrow I will see Dr. Demers to hopefully set a surgery date for my lumpectomy again. Requesting special prayers for special friends Sylvia, Marybeth, Larry and Christa who are facing serious physical issues. I praise and thank my awesome God for His goodness and mercy to all of us every day.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Just said goodbye to Julie's family and Grandma who had dinner with us while we discussed our visit to Dr. Johnston, my thoracic surgeon. Julie was such a help to be with us with her extra set of ears. We feel quite positive as he indicated it was pretty unlikely that there was a problem. So that we can eliminate anything he ordered a CT scan with contrast for Friday 2/12 which will highlight the area better than the PET. Then on Tues. 2/16 I will have bronchoscopy and if possible biopsy. With these results in hand he hopes to send me back to Dr. Demers to reschedule my lumpectomy. Also received positive results from my FISH (Her2) test from my breast biopsy that came back negative or normal rather than positive and agressive. Also, daughter, Kathy called with results from her biopsy that it is benign. Wow! What a great God we have holding us in His hands.
Is. 49:13 "Shout for joy, rejoice, burst into song. For the Lord comforts His people and will have compassion on His afflicted ones."
We send our sincere love to all of you.

Monday, February 8, 2010
Today daughter, Kathy, had to endure a needle biopsy and core biopsy for cysts. Our prayer is for good results for her. Daughter, Kristy, missed her Lauren's 5th birthday party at Chucky Cheese as she got sick the night before. Ross pulled it off in good style. Julie has been very supportive locally by passing on good information to her Mom. Friend, Nora, called with answers to all of our questions about our recent PET scan and what to expect ahead. What a valuable source she has been to us. This patience thing is really something we have been praying about. It does not come easily. ...but with God all things are possible. Trying to keep busy with friends watching Super Bowl, attending Julie's Private Quarters open house, keeping in touch with friends and family, enjoying a wonderful lunch with dear neighbor, Doris, participating in several Bible classes. This week Beth Moore's study is reminding us to "believe who we are." We are not only LOVED, but we are blessed, chosen, adopted, accepted, redeemed and forgiven. He's done it all. So we go forward Wed. to our consultation with thoracic surgeon with Kathy's confirmation verse on our heart, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. "John 14:27 Please add Rosemary, Kathy, Sylvia, Marybeth to your previous prayer list for medical issues.

Friday, February 5, 2010
The Lord says, "I will rescue those who love Me. I will protect those who trust in My name. When they call on Me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue them and honor them. I will satisfy them with long life." Ps. 91: 14-16 Another promise to trust in for our family. Met with Dr. Demers, my surgeon, today and he cancelled my lumpectomy for Tuesday. In reading my PET scan it shows a 1.3 cm lymph node in chest that needs to be checked out. So on Wed. we will have a consultation with Dr. Johnston, thoracic surgeon. Possibly a bronchial scope will take a biopsy to see what we are dealing with. Eventually I will get my port and begin my chemo. We know that God is beside us with comfort and strength and that He has a plan for our lives that He will reveal to us in the days ahead. So we rest in His arms and trust in Him with all our heart. Each one of you is a blessing in our lives. We thank God for the amazing love that we are feeling through your prayers.

Thursday, February 4, 2010
My Beth Moore Bible study today was all about "Believing God can do anything He says He can do"...and yes He still performs all kinds of miracles among us today. Ps. 77:14. We believe that He answered our prayers...as the nurse read us my PET scan and breast MRI results today. The MRI showed no evidence of cancer in right breast. The PET scan showed that my head, neck and thoracic were CLEAR. How comforting it was to hear these words and know that God is showing His power and faithfulness. Tomorrow Dr. Demers, my surgeon, will more fully interpret the lymph node involvment and discuss my lumpectomy and port placement surgery plans for 2/9. Gary and I had quite a busy week with his brother, Roger and wife, Sandra in town for the weekend, movie on Wed., Seniors luncheon on Thursday. The most exciting time was granddaughter Terri's basketball game. She made 7 three point goals for 22 points for WSHS. They lost by 2 points...but we think Terri set a school record with her dead eye. What joy He brings into our lives with family and friends and the scripture and prayers that are lifted on our behalf. We thank you and Him for being part of our lives. God is good all the time.

Sunday, January 31, 2010
Today our church held a Service of the Word for Healing. The scriptures (James 5:13-16, Ps. 96, Ps 34:4, ICor 12 & 13, Jer. 1:4-10), prayers, hymns, message, anointing with oil, laying on of hands all gave us assurance of God's awesome power and His everpresent presence in our lives. How comforting and overwhelming it was to be among our dear friends and hear so many encouraging words. We will go confidently into our week of testing with words from sister, Mary Ann's, 70th reunion devotion...echoing"I am trusting Thee Lord Jesus." We spent a wonderful weekend with Gary's brother, Roger, his wife, Sandra, Grandma and Julie's family gathering together. What fun family times!! We are sorry to miss our family time in TX to celebrate Lauren's 5th birthday (2/1)...as we had to postpone our trip for now. We are so blessed.

Thursday, January 28, 2010
Today I accompanied daughter, Julie, to her Beth Moore Bible study entitled, "Believing God can do what He says He can do." Wow! The fellowship, timing and study were just right for me. He is the God who performs miracles; who gives us hope; and everything is possible for him who believes- were highlights of our study. Awesome ! This followed our day of consultations with nutritionist and social worker at ORMC. Snapped in on all needed supplements, especially Vit D and B12 to make treatments easier on body. Received info related to many aspects of chemo. We are trying to be as prepared as possible for all that is ahead. Got dates for PreOp (2/2) and surgery (2/9). Thank you all especially for prayers that my PET scan will be clear. I love Ps. 100:3...Know that the Lord is God. It is He who made us, and we are His. Comforting and TRUE. We remain in His hands and you are in our hearts.

Monday, January 25,2010
Another very full day today. Met with medical oncologist and discussed my medical history. We received more info; had blood drawn; scheduled PET scan and breast MRI for Tues, Feb 2 (sister, Kathy's 65th); met radiation oncologist to learn about that routine which will probably consist of 33 treatments. Had my hormone receptor test come back negative which means I cannot be treated with hormones but will be on chemo for 3 months following surgery. If lymph nodes are involved we'll add another 3 months of chemo. So "one day at a time" takes on a new meaning...knowing that God is in control of my plan. Daughter, Kathy, sent me beautiful words for new Kutless video called "What Faith Can Do." Look it up. Awesome! Received my pink shirt from Julie for Terri's basketball team project to support breast cancer. On Feb. 20 Kevin's fraternity is having Cars for Cancer event featuring Keith's band.. Both were scheduled before their Mimi was diagnosed. I remain safe in God's hands..as my help come from the Lord. Ps 121. We end with a prayer of thanksgiving for Betty's successful surgery this afternoon.

Sunday, January 24, 2010
Enjoyed a wonderful family dinner last night with Julie, Keith, Grandma and Gary. Tyler was under the weather and Terri was at basketball. What a gift family is to us. At church this morning I received my hugs for the week ahead of unknowns. What special friends we have had in our lives for the past 34 years. God is good and we praised Him in worship and song. Promises that jumped out at me were..."with your help, O Lord, our struggles we win"... and "with you Lord beside us your strong arm will guide us. We do, indeed, have an awesome God.

January 23, 2010 (Granddaughter Kristin's 20th birthday...Yea)
What a wonderful God we have who has surrounded us with friends and family and their love and prayers. He is my stong anchor and He has me in His right hand. You have shared meaningful verses with me to keep me strong. Today Lynn sent a beautiful one from Romans 12:12...Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Will work on the patience one. We have friends who are also in need of your prayers. Please add my friend, Marybeth, Gretchen, Dawn, Betty, Jan, Tammy, Sylvia, Mark M, Mark F and all those working and trying to survive in Haiti. Phil 4:19 reminds us that ...my God will fill your every need in a glorious way through Christ Jesus. That's all we need.

My biopsy results came back as "positive," so I will not be in the 80% after all. On Thursday we had our consultation with biopsy nurse, who spent 1 1/2 hours explaining all aspect of breast cancer and today we had our discussion with Dr. Demers, my surgical oncologist. So now I feel like a walking encyclopedia. Since the lump is 2 cm and the specimen showed no nerve or blood vessel involvment, I decided to do a lumpectomy. During surgery they will identify if lymph nodes are involved. Otherwise, I will do radiation for 5-6 weeks for 5 days a week. Monday my medical and radiation oncologists will do my medical work up. Then we can schedule surgery for 7-10 days from now. In the last few days we have felt His peace through your prayers and we thank you and Him. We are confident that we have a loving and faithful God...who watches over us daily...counts the hairs on my head.. feeds the birds, so why worry...promises to give strength to those who wait with hope in the Lord. (Ps 40:31) So we will continue to be strong and courageous. (Joshua 1:9)

January 19, 2010
Since my memory is not like it used to be, I decided to keep a diary/blog to help me remember my recent experience and God's continued presence in my life. Linda took me through my biopsy today explaining all that would take place. Teresa and my wonderful doctor answered all my questions during and after the procedure. I was able to watch the ultrasound screen the whole time. The doctor verified that it is a 2 cm mass and not a cyst. We will pick up films and pathology report on Thursday and deliver them to surgeon on Friday for his analysis.
We feel covered in prayer by friends and family. We thank God for each of you being a part of our lives. My friend, Carol, reiterated our last Tuesday Bible class topics that "God loves us..God is for us..God is with us." What great promises. Today's devotion reminds us in Jeremiah 29:11...For I know the plans I have for you....so we will not be anxious about tomorrow.
Sister in law, Gretchen, came through her shoulder surgery fine and will already go home tomorrow. Continue to lift up she and Jim.

One year later...I'm thinking that God likes to get my attention in January. One year ago I had ultrasound that led to my hysterectomy on Jan. 30, 2009. He blessed me with good results and an active year. Around Thanksgiving I noticed a breast lump and made appt for checkup. Dr. Danna sent me immediately for mammeogram and ultrasound which revealed a suspicious mass. So again I have appts to meet: Tues for ultrasound core biopsy and Friday for consultation with Dr. Demers, a surgical oncologist. One of the first Bible verses I was directed to was Phil 4:6..Don't worry, pray about everything, tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done. So that is where we are at this time...in His hands...trusting His promises. As we have this on our heart, I cannot fathom what our Haitian brothers and sisters are enduring. We are so thankful that many do know Jesus as their Savior because of our many schools and missionaries who follow His will and say, "Here am I, send me." Ps. 46:1-3
In your prayers, please lift up sister in law, Gretchen, who will undergo shoulder surgery Tues with more breast surgery scheduled following her rehab. Gary and Jim also appreciate prayers for their peace.