Sometimes, no matter how hard we pray for a change in our story, God simply says, "My grace is sufficient." God is the author of our story - a story that was written long before we were born.
After meeting with my doctor yesterday, the decision was made to discontinue the Avastin treatments. The small reward possibility of the drug was not worth the potential risks it carried.
This was the most difficult decision I have ever had to make. I have now exhausted all treatment options. For now, I will continue to see my oncologist and have scans to monitor the progression of the cancer. I will also begin working with a palliative care doctor to manage pain and symptoms.
This new reality has me in a realm of fear and sadness that I've never known before. In a word, I'm heartbroken. The doctor explained what the cancer will eventually do and it's painful and ugly. I know the enemy wants me to dwell in this place and allow fear to paralyze me. I am determined not to let that happen. I pray for God's peace and grace. I pray that He will deal with me mercifully. I want to focus on loving and living.
Jay and I have several things planned for the next couple of months. Next week, my family from Texas will be with us for their spring break. We are looking forward to spending time with them and having time to be together.
In early April, Jay and I are getting away to the beach...in Maui. We are so excited about this trip. Please pray that I will feel well and have good energy for these events.
We are grateful to all of you for praying over us and we ask that you pray us through this next chapter in our story.
Blessings,
Mandy
Praying for you Amanda. I admire you for all you have had to deal with and the fact that you have always had faith in God and Jay standing right there beside you. Keep fighting on. Miss yall.
ReplyDeleteThank you Robin! Miss you!
DeleteYou and Jay are most definitely in my prayers, Amanda. Most definitely. Sending you a hug from SD...xoxox
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Adrienne! Hugs from AZ!!!
DeleteFight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
ReplyDeleteThankful for His promise of eternal life! This is the light & hope we cling to!
DeleteWe love you and are praying for you and Jay.
ReplyDeleteWe love you and are praying for you and Jay.
ReplyDeleteThank you. We love you.
ReplyDeleteOur hearts are breaking for you guys but your faith and commitment inspires us.
ReplyDeleteThank you Tim. We love you guys 💗
DeleteYour strength, your faith, your fight, your love, your life.....our blessing!
ReplyDeleteThank you Mike. You, Tiffany & the boys are a blessing to us 💗
DeleteYour faith is inspirational, Mandy. Ginger and I know this has not been an easy decision. Have peace in your decision that it was Spirit-led and that that peace will continue to guard your heart. We love you.
ReplyDeleteThank you Matk! Love you & Ginger so much! ❤️
DeleteMandy, you are one of the strongest people I know. Your faith and love has always brought a light to everyone who has met you. I hope to get to see you soon.
ReplyDeleteI love you Bea! I hope to see you soon as well!!!
DeleteAmanda I have been reading your blog and just want you to know what an amazing example of faith and courage you are. Your life and story are a gift to the world. Many prayers will be sent up for you!
ReplyDeleteThank you Katie!
DeleteMandy, I love you dearly and you are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. You have done things God's way all along this journey, and I pray that He will continue to bless you with strength and joy in these coming months. May your pain be small and your peace be great, and may you find love and fulfillment in all the days that are ahead of you. Your grace in all you've been through has been such a gift to me, and I will always treasure your precious friendship. Hugs and prayers for you and Jay every day.
ReplyDeleteI love you Chris! You have been such a treasured blessing to Jay and I. I thank God for bringing you to us!
Delete(I get so frustrated when I write a good-sized note and it doesn't publish because i did it on my phone...) Brave Heart:
ReplyDeleteYou are loved, adored, prayed for, and so just keep on keepin' on...as you know so well know how to do!!! Sorry for the disappointing news. You've certainly done your best!
Hugs❤
Alice
(I get so frustrated when I write a good-sized note and it doesn't publish because i did it on my phone...) Brave Heart:
ReplyDeleteYou are loved, adored, prayed for, and so just keep on keepin' on...as you know so well know how to do!!! Sorry for the disappointing news. You've certainly done your best!
Hugs❤
Alice
Thank you Alice!! <3
Delete