Hello Friends and Family,
I will not be leaving Washington State tomorrow (June 3rd) for the World Race.
I’ve chosen to defer my departure to October 2019, or January 2020, or beyond.
When I leave I will join a new squad, have a new list of countries, and I know God will be with me on this future World Race trip! All funding raised will be transferred to this new route.
I just made this decision to defer on Friday, May 31st. I have peace with waiting.
I just made this decision to defer on Friday, May 31st. I have peace with waiting.
Remember last month? I shared that my Grandma Linda went into the hospital in early April. They took scans and found multiple odd spots on both of her lungs. I wrote a blog on Double Fisted Faith. Faith that holds onto God while believing for a miracle and choosing to trust the Lord regardless of the circumstances.
Now my Double Fisted Faith is being put into practice.
Since April, there has been lots of waiting & praying, more tests, more waiting & praying, more appointments, more waiting & praying. Recently my grandma was diagnosed with kidney cancer that had metastasized (spread) to her lungs. On May 30th the doctor gave his best prognosis of approximately a year without treatment. Based on averages, her life could be extended for a few months longer if her body responds to oral chemotherapy pills.
On Thursday, May 30th our family met together to tell grandma what the doctor said regarding average time frame with her diagnosis. My grandma gave permission for my uncle to find out her prognosis and then share at home with family. Thursday evening had conversations, tears, singing hymns, and prayers.
My grandma’s body is still so full of energy.
She doesn’t look or feel sick.
This was a shock since she has been cancer free for 10 years.
I’ve lived with my grandparents for nearly 3 years. My grandma’s grit, love for family, and commitment to faith is inspiring!
I am grateful,
- She had 10 years of health without cancer impacting her life. She has had previous breast and kidney cancers.
- These spots were found! It was found early enough to have time together, make plans, and PRAY.
- World Race Leadership was willing to hold the full amount I’ve raised until I confirm a new route. They were also very supportive for my staying with family. Your financial gift will still be stewarded well and cover my future trip.
- Delta Airlines has put in a strong request to refund plane tickets based on a medical emergency.
- Grandma saw all of her grand kids reach adulthood. Yesterday was my sister’s 18th birthday! Please say an extra prayer for my sister, this is tough information especially at an important milestone birthday.
- I already cleared my schedule — God helped me see I was pushing my margins back in February. I cut deeply in my schedule in March just before these challenges started in April.
- Now my focus will be on rebuilding my schedule around:
1) Spending Time with Grandma and Family
2) Preparing to go, I was going to leave with several loose ends. Now I can finish well.
3) Strengthening my body for the World Race. Continuing focusing on training with my BIG 40 pound pack and Gracie Jiu Jitsu.I know my family will grow deeper with the Lord through this time.
Please Pray,
- Please pray that the cancer STOPS and does not continue to spread.
- Let’s also pray that the cancer cells in her body are flushed out of her system. There are multiple spots on her lungs and one on her single kidney.
- For longevity. Grandma would LOVE to live for another 10-20 years to see her grandchildren’s future weddings and great-grand kids. She is 73 years old.
- For my Grandpa Leon. 50+ years of marriage has a lot of memories and love.
- Please pray for my family. The stress and emotions are touching everyone. Please pray for physical health, peace, comfort, openness for tears, and a cohesiveness as we travel this journey together.
- JUNE 12th grandma has a second opinion appointment with Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. We are praying for creative ideas and practical wisdom for the doctors she meets on June 12th.
How you can help:
- Please send written encouragement of prayers, favorite Bible verses, inspiring quotes, pictures from your children, etc. We are going to post encouraging truth around her home and make a booklet for her to read on tough days.
- Email: [email protected]
- You are welcome to email me requesting our physical address to mail a card.
I’m praying for a miracle. And surrendering to God’s will for my grandma’s life. God is still GOOD and will create good out of all of this. Delaying going on the World Race will give me time to process and see how the treatment responds to her body.
Thank you for your prayers, encouragement, and support.
Rachel
Rachel
Rachel,
I am praying for divine healing for your grandmother and the Lord’s will to be done in you, through you, and around You for His glory and Your good. Amen!??????
Amen! Thank you, Tonia