thread for middle age to older Christian women.

bandwoman1234

Joanne, Amen to all of those banners.

Ellen, we will be lifting you up in prayer as you have your other hip replacement on Thursday, Nov. 17.

Patty, I pray that you are doing well in your initial phase of your recovery from surgery.

Charlotte, praying the same for you that you will be able to resume you chemo soon and that you have a quick recovery from your gallbladder surgery.

Char, will be praying for this teacher who is waiting to get her stage results.

Have a wonderful day dear sisters.

Love,

Nancy

zjrosenthal

My daughter went to Family Court today. It seems Valentina''s father wants custody. I am so grateful the same God who saved me knows,what is best for her. Breathe Jean and trust!. Praying for all needs here. Ellen please let us know how the surgery goes when you have time. Praying for you . I have an appointment Friday to check out the cause of my bleeeding. Love , Jean

Ade

I shared this on my facebook page (only my friends can see). I hope it's ok with you all. You're an inspiration!

'I follow a blog site for older Christian ladies with breast cancer and am amazed (and dismayed) at the horrible side effects of the meds and treatments these poor souls are on in order to save - or simply prolong their lives. They don't complain - they just lift one another up in encouragement and prayer.

I don't LIKE the side effects of my meds either - but as I endure them I realize that my meds are working, doing what they were designed to do, so I will be thankful.
This is the attitude we can have regarding the trials and heartaches in life. We may not see it at the time, but God is ALWAYS at work through and in us to produce character, perseverance and hope (Romans 5:3-4) and to conform us into the image of Christ.

It IS hard to "count it all joy" when you're smack in the middle of it - but when you see that it is God's loving, faithful hand to complete the good work He began in you it gives us a whole new perspective and we CAN be thankful.

Blessings upon your day!'

~*~ Ade ~*~

Lita57

Ade: You hit the nail on the head...we often ask "Why in the heck did this happen to me? I ate well, didn't consume too much junk, exercised, didn't do drugs, etc., and I still got darn cancer! Why??!!"

We know God is NOT the author of bad things, but he does ALLOW certain maladies for His purpose and HIS glory. Maybe He "allowed" this to happen to us so we could be a light and an inspiration to others. Even tho I have Stage IV cancer and only have months to live (my MO and RO were both very honest w/me) I have been blessed in so many ways. I have made wonderful new friends on this board and wonderful new friends in my "live" support groups. I no longer have to work at a job that brought me more pain and stress than joy and fulfillment; I can now try and focus on my third novel (but it's very hard because the cancer Tx also affect my eyesight, and I get very fatigued both in mind and body). But that's okay.

Treating and coping w/Stage IV is a delicate balancing act: We want to try and knock back the cancer, yet we also want to maintain a halfway decent quality of life. Sisters and brothers (remember, men get breast cancer, too!) w/St I and St II are expected to tough it out and deal w/miserable side effects because the Tx will indeed save their lives and give them an additional 20-30+ years, but St IV people may only have 20-30 MONTHS, and we don't want those months to be totally crappy. We do our share of complaining on these boards because we know our sister warriors understand the almost constant gastrointestinal issues, the toenails falling out, the hair loss, the fatigue, the joint pain and the hot flashes/mood swings. We "let it out" here so we won't burden our loved ones with it.

Thank you all for being here. My love and prayers are with you,

Lita

Ade

Lita, you're a brave, honest, spunky woman who is glorifying God before she goes to meet Him and bask in His wonderful Presence forever. Most likely the time will come when you won't be able to post here anymore but I want you to know how much you are admired for your gumption and faith and how much we all love you. I am still new here but you have made a profound impact on my journey with this disease. I may be in your shoes someday and if I am I want to be as brave and strong and a testimony to God's grace that you are. God bless you, sister and may you feel His love surrounding you more everyday. Love, Ade

auroaya200882

Lita as you know I'm stage IV too and I was diagnosed stage IV three years ago. At the time the doctor told my daughter I had months to live and yet here I am. I know of dozens of cases on these boards of women who are living with this dx for ten, 15, 20 years.

All I'm saying the only one who knows how long we have is God himself and I choose to believe He still has me here and will keep me here for as long as He has a purpose for me.

My purpose is to see my daughter well established as a lawyer and my grandson grow. And if possible I'd like to see a granddaughter .

Everything is possible in God's will.

Aurora

bandwoman1234

Good morning dear ladies,

Ellen has her hip replacement surgery for tomorrow. Let's keep her in prayer.

Joanne, has not been feeling well or her DH. I know she would appreciate our prayers.

We have so many new ladies that have come in lately. I know we have prayer warriors behind the scenes who may not post much but do pray.

I want to list the stage four ladies (that I know of) from this thread who I know would appreciate prayers.

Aurora, Faith, Lita, Charlotte, Allison, Mags, Debbie from Ireland. I know I am leaving some out who have stayed only a short time.

We have lost Sue, Kate, Becky, Anita, Kath and Lucy and her husband Steve.

These ladies who are with us now and those who have passed have shown us bravery and courage in the midst of great suffering. Some always seemed to be cheerful even though you know that they had tough times and some have vented and showed their honesty and sometimes anger. I know that what I have taken from this is that I need to find a way to live in the moment and to appreciate each day that I am given. If I am having a rough day I pray that God will see me through it and pray that tomorrow I have a chance to start over with renewed hope and strength. I have a renewed compassion for those who suffer and realize that if I am given another day I need to be grateful in that and hopefully be a blessing to others. I think that is the biggest gem I have discovered is that gratitude brings so much joy. When the Bible says the joy of the Lord is our strength I think being grateful and expressing that to God releases something in us that renews and restores us. I cannot imagine what it is like living in stage four cancer but I have seen in others that their reliance on the Lord becomes stronger.

I am happy for those who have come and gone from this thread and are now living their lives hopefully in good health and happiness.

I know that words are powerful and I know that the written word can be misunderstood and it is not like talking directly to someone to understand the tone of what they are saying. My mission on this thread has always been to lift up and to encourage and to point to Jesus as our help and our solution and to pray. I feel like the Lord put me here and as long as I feel that is where He wants me I will be here.

I pray that each of you can find the blessings in this day and for those who are suffering I pray that the Lord will help you through each minute of this day giving you pleasant distractions and relief.

Prayers also for those who are recovering from surgeries. Patty and Charlotte in particular.

Love,

Nancy

quiltspice

Thank you Nancy for your post on prayer requests. For someone like me that is new to this forum and BC, it takes some time to get to know the ladies here and each pathway. I so appreciate prayers and feel privileged to pray for others.

I just received word that my surgery has been bumped into January (5th) from December 22. (and originally I heard it would be late Nov). I'm trying to remain positive about this: won't be in the hospital over Christmas, etc...... but there is a part that is worried about the time frame- over 3 months from diagnosis. It is a very small tumor > 1cm. E/P + HER2- but I'd like it to stay that way!!!! My PS team has changed now as well...... but I'm fine with that. It's just hard when I wrap my mind around something, like a date for surgery, the PS team, etc....... and then to have it changed. Also on the plus side I will save $3000 to wait until next year. My emotions are up and down and honestly I there are moments where I feel alone and forgotten...... Also, another huge piece to this is that I am having BMX with DIEP, so it takes a lot to get all the surgeons on the same date especially during the holidays.

I hate being so wimpy..... especially when I have a Savior that is strong and mighty!!! This is part of my walk..... to trust when things get hard or don't go my way. Way back in Sept I was given a word as I was praying for friend that was going through chemo: Patience. I thought that was an interesting "word" to get 'for her'..... she was such a Godly and patient women. At one point I thought hmmmm, maybe it's for me too....... and yep...... right on target. Patience.

Thank you dear sisters in Christ for this forum and YOUR patience, and love that pours through with every word written here.

~Tracey

bandwoman1234

Tracey,

There is certainly nothing wimpy about facing your surgery coming up. BTW Be sure to let us know the exact date (Jan 5 at this point) when it is coming so we can be praying for you before, during and after it is over. Christians have emotions and there is no reason to apologize for that. We experience fear and anxiety when we hear the word cancer just as everyone in the world experiences that. We do have an anchor to hold on to and lean on and you will find that your faith will become more real to you than ever before. Your cancer journey will be a marathon and not a sprint so I am not surprised that the word patience was given to you.

Having the date of your surgery changed is very unsettling especially when Christmas is in there too. I have had cataract surgery in both of my eyes and when my first one was scheduled I was up at the crack of dawn and all prayed up and prepped emotionally and got a phone call soon after I got up that my surgeon was sick and the surgery had to be postponed. It affected the date of my second surgery as well and I had to be there for my mom's cataract surgery and all these dates had to coincide. It was not cancer surgery but none the less we build ourselves up in preparation in all ways and then when things change it is NOT easy so I can completely understand how unsettling these changes must be for you. God's timing is not our own and that is not easy to deal with when it doesn't coincide with our plans.

Will you have your DIEP surgery at the same time as your initial surgery or is it later? It sounds like you may be having it at the same time.

We will be praying for you. I understand that having more time to think about this can cause more anxiety but I will be praying that you will be able to actually enjoy Christmas this year and that it will be a pleasant distraction. If your surgeons thought for a minute that waiting would not be in your best interest then they would not be waiting.

We have a lot of new people on this thread and continue to get new people. Just jump in and feel free to say hey I am a basket case and I need prayer NOW or whatever the case may be. We are all from different backgrounds and from all over the country and the world but we are all in this club together that no one ever thought they would be in or signed up for. There is strength in community so I hope you and all the new people will feel welcome.

Love,

Nancy

quiltspice

Thank you Nancy for just the right words!!!! Yes, my DIEP surgery will be at the same time...... they told me it would be a 12hr surgery! yikes. I've never had surgery before.

Thank you for mentioning Christmas!!!! I so need an attitude adjustment over it...... my daughter and her husband, newly married are coming up ...... I'm so excited to see them, but a large part of me just wants to crawl in a hole and not face Christmas at all. My other daughter is coming up Friday - and she will be back for a month in Dec........ I know it will all work out. And God's timing is perfect. I have my husband and my 3 grown boys who are willing to help post surgery.

I have SO much to be thankful for. So much. And I am so thankful for you all here on this forum..... and allowing me to sort out these crazy emotions.

~Tracey

auroaya200882

Hi everyone and welcome to those new to the thread, the first weeks/months after initial diagnosis are always full of anxiety but with time and prayer comes calm.

I was finally able to talk to the nurse and she told me the doctor agreed to lower the dose on the Xeloda and sent a new prescription to the pharmacy to deal with the mouth sores. Also thank you all for your prayers the pain has gone down sufficiently that I was able to do my PT exercise this morning.

In more good news I found out that the cancer institute that my oncology clinic in Orlando belongs to has 4 clinics in the Naples area so switching my care over there will be simple. I also researched public transportation for handicapped people which I rely in to go to my appointments is also available in Naples and since I'm already certified in Orlando I can use the service in Naples 20 times while they process my application over there .

I would like to request prayer for God to guide my daughter as we search for a house to live in in Naples whether is for rent or possibly even buy one in the area.

Sorry to take so much attention but this thread gives me hope and feel the prayers are reaching heaven and the blessings are coming down.

Love in Christ,

Aurora

bandwoman1234

Aurora, that is wonderful how God is working things out for you and your family. I do hope that the lower dose of Xeloda will help and this other med to help the mouth sores. What a blessing that they have an cancer clinic in the Naples area associated with the one you go to. I will be praying that your daughter can find just the perfect house for your family whether it be a rental or she can buy. Don't ever feel like you can't post a request on here. That is what we are here for.

Tracey, no wonder you are anxious with a twelve hour surgery and it is your first. I have had many surgeries but I remember my very first one and I was a basket case because I had no idea what to expect and it was a very simple one at that. That was many years ago. I am glad you have family that will be able to help out.

I live alone and God worked out all the details when I had my cancer surgery. I had no family that could come up but God allowed me to have so much support with my community of friends and former coworkers and retiree friends. I realize that your surgery is going to be way more than I had but God will work it out for you I have no doubt.

Joanne, hopefully someone will weigh in on your question. I had my first senior flu shot this year and didn't notice any reactions and you know I am very sensitive too. Hopefully with time you will be able to find out if it is your cholesterol meds or maybe just a case of having a virus.

Have a good evening dear ladies and I pray that those who are in pain and having SE and fatigue and discomfort will have some relief.

Love,

Nancy

zjrosenthal

Tracey, it is so hard to have surgery posponed. God spoke to me before one of my surgeries I was starting to obsess over. He said "Jean, how many times do you want to go though this surgery?" Of course He meant in my head as I was picturing and imagining all kinds of things. Of course you're scared I would be concerned if you weren't. Many here will be praying for you to it and through it. Enjoy each day as it comes and don't be robbed of its beauty. God is good.

Tonight I am so grateful for the powerful intercessory prayer meeting at my church last night. The words "second chance" came up a number of times as we were praying for our nation. What a privilege to be allowed to be involved in what God is doing. I am so blessed. Love, Jean

Faith-840

Welcome to all the new ladies here. This thread has been a wonderful comfort and resource for me when I am feeling low and I pray it will be for all of you also.

Nancy, thank you for your earlier post about those of us who are stage 4. Twentyfive years ago when I first had breast cancer, I was scared as is everyone but I never really felt that it was the end for me. I believe it was and is my faith in God that keeps me going even now when I have so many fears. It's also all the prayers from so many here. You mentioned that you know there are many who pray but don't post often and I feel I am one of those. Sometimes it's fatigue But often it's just too overwhelming.

Please know I am most grateful for everyone's prayers and I am also praying for all of you.

Faith (in the future)

bandwoman1234

Ladies I will post later but I wanted you to remember to pray for Ellen today as she is having her other hip replacement today. I will be praying for you today as I swim laps and I have already been praying for the expressed needs. Thank you Faith, Jean and Joanne for your posts and will respond later.

Love,

Nancy

capinva

Good evening everyone,

I saw the surgeon from my gall bladder surgery yesterday and all is good. Thank you so much for your prayers. I see the onco tomorrow and now I have a pain in my sternum. Praying that the ascites is not building back up.

Sorry I don't remember all the names and needs but I do pray and ask Jesus to be with all of you. Only He really knows what needs we each have.

Have a good evening

God Bless each and everyone.

bandwoman1234

Charlotte, I am glad things are going well post gallbladder surgery. Praying your ascities is not back.

Faith and Joanne and anyone else who may feel fatigued and/or overwhelmed. I think we have all been there and understand what that is like. I know I certainly understand when you are not able to post and appreciate your prayers whether they be individual or collective and whether you are able to post or not.

Joanne, I am praying that this spot will be nothing serious and you can start to feel better in all ways.

We pray that Ellen is resting comfortably tonight after her hip replacement surgery today and pray that Patty is starting to feel better after her bilateral mastectomy.

Have a great night dear sisters.

Love,

Nancy

Lita57

Jo - - I had my flu shot during a chemo cycle, and I was fine. Hope your throat gets better. There are some cold viruses floating around out there, so be careful.

L

Blessedteacher37

just wanted all of you to know that the surgery went well. I got to my room about 3pm EDT and still with no pain 12 hours after surgery. Due to some additional meds I wasn't nauseous or sick this time. Blessings to all who are praying for me. Physical fitness in the morning!!

Clyde and I have already found an opportunity to witness.One of my nurses lost everything in Hurricane Matthew..including 2 pets. She is currently living with one of her sons, a 90 minute commute from here. She is exhausted and getting very little help from FEMA. Please part for God's mercy and help. Her name is Linda.

Beginning to see that my writing is not the best. Thank you for your prayers....Praying for you as well...Ellen

bandwoman1234

Wow, Ellen. You are doing awesome! I didn't think we would hear from you tonight. Praising God for answered prayers.

Lord, we ask that you would help Linda navigate the waters when it comes to dealing with FEMA. We asked that you could intervene for her and help her in this awful situation she has found herself in. We pray strength into this lady and pray that you will give her the courage and perseverance and patience to go through this tough time. We ask you to work behind the scenes of the bureaucracy in her behalf. Thank you Lord. Maybe this will be her divine apt meeting Ellen and Clyde and coming to know you Lord in a personal way. In Jesus name we pray. Amen

Love

Nancy

bandwoman1234

bandwoman1234

In my devotional today.

Philippians 4:6-7 New International Version (NIV)

6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

auroaya200882

Amen

zjrosenthal

I am so grateful for no cancer found in my rectum after the sigmoid test today. I was a bit concerned since the 2 bleeding episodes last week. Ellen I am so glad to hear your hip surgery went well. Will continue to pray as you go through healing and rehab. Love , Jean

bandwoman1234

That's great news Jean. I thought I could hear a big sigh of relief!!

Lita57

I love Philippians!

Lita

Blessedteacher37

Good evening ladies,

Just wanted you to know that I am back at home and resting comfortably. The surgery went well, and it appears that therapy will start next week. Thanks for your prayers...compared to some of you, this surgery and recover is not a big deal. The prayers gave me such piece of mind.!

Praying for all of you daily.

Love, Ellen

zjrosenthal

Wow Ellen....home already! Isn't God amazing. Prayers going up for therapy to go well. Love, Jean

---

bandwoman1234

Ellen, you are doing GREAT! I am so glad you are home and we will continue to pray for your rehab and therapy. Thanks for letting us know how you are doing.

Lita, I am with you on that too.

This banner is for all the answered prayers that we have experienced on this thread and for the upcoming Thanksgiving Day coming soon.

Love,

Nancy

bandwoman1234

Ladies please pray for Joanne. Her family has been through so much stress and still having this court case hanging over her grand daughter's head regarding custody of her children. She has been battling flu like symptoms and can hardly talk today. On top of all that their washroom in their basement flooded and they could not flush their toilets. They got some guys to pump out the water after waiting for hours. Then when they flushed the toilet it flooded again so the guys left saying they did not have the proper tools to fix the job. I know Joanne is at the end of her rope and I hope she doesn't mind me asking for prayer for her. She doesn't usually ask for prayer much but this has been a really tough time for her and her family with enormous stress regarding the welfare of their great grand children. I know she would appreciate your prayers.

I will be leaving on Monday to go downstate and stay with my mom for a week and I will post when I am able. Have a restful night dear ladies.

Love

Nancy