Scott did indeed receive another round of chemo this past Wednesday. His brother, Corey, flew in on Tuesday night, so he was able to come with us. He has definitely been a huge blessing. He buoyed Scott's spirits during the treatment... so much so that Scott was actually laughing for part of the time. Through his encouragement, Scott was clowning around and managed to put a latex glove on his head (sort of like a rubber chicken thing). I know, I couldn't believe it either... and I was there.
Anyway, it wasn't long afterwards that Scott came down and found himself in the midst of the worst nausea yet from the treatment. We were hoping for a bit easier round, as he had a four week hiatus from the chemo. However, he has actually had more severe nausea and vomiting this time... even while taking three different anti-nausea drugs.
Scott took Corey to work with him these past two days, and forced hard labor upon him! Without Corey's help, I know Scott would not have made it through the day. His color looks so poor these days... especially after chemo. He has this yellowish-grey cast to his skin after the treatment, and during his very sick moments. He told me today that he didn't know how I coped with the continual nausea and vomiting with each of my pregnancies. I'm pretty sure that pregnancy nausea and chemo nausea are horses of two bipolar opposite colors! And besides, I get the best prize ever at the end of the pregnancy... what does he get?
Well, we have been continued to be blessed by our fabulous church family and our amazing community of friends! I can't even begin to tell you all how much we appreciate all of you and everything you have done for us!
Which leads me to mention the amazing fundraiser that a few of the men at church lined up this past Friday night. Corey was able to attend the card tournament and said the giving attitude of all the people involved was amazing. The fundraiser was a huge success and I can't thank you enough, guys, for thinking out of the box on this one! The money that was raised will definitely help pay off those large medical and pharmaceutical bills (which deserve their own separate blog entry)!
This whole cancer experience has enabled us to see the Body of Christ in action. We have been loved and cared for by this incredible body of believers that stretches across America and extends to other parts of the world. I have had many moments when I have felt like a single mother, wearing the entire burden of caring for my children alone. I know this isn't the case, and I realize the the task single moms bear is tremendous. However, the Sundays when I have had to gather my flock and head out to worship alone, leaves an ache in my soul. Corporate worship seems to be where the tears come easily as I attempt to leave that burden at the cross and really reflect on who the Lord is. However, throughout all of this, my church family and friends have cared for me, watched my kids for me, reminded me that they are always here to help me, and encouraged me that I am loved by the Lord and that He is good. I will be forever grateful to you all. You have encouraged my spirit more than you will ever know.
And on that note, Scott mustered all his strength today to attend worship. He has missed so many Sundays due to sickness and hospital stays. He desperately needed the comfort found in corporate worship and hearing the Word of God spoken to his soul. I think as difficult as it was physically, he was refreshed spiritually.
So, on that thought, I will end this entry for now. I just wanted you all to know that we love you all so much, and without your assistance we would not be able to carry on as we have been doing. It is because you live out the scriptural commands to love each other and give up your lives (time, resources) for each other. Please continue to pray for healing and for strength for Scott. He is attempting to work as much as he possibly can in order to provide for us. I am amazed that he does what he does in the condition he does it in!
Pray that the nausea will quickly subside. Pray that his brother will return safely to his family tomorrow... we are so indebted to his presence here this past week. Please pray that my love for my Savior will continue to grow and that daily I will choose to serve my husband.
I hear the kids and their uncle playing the game show "Wipeout" in the living room... they set up their own obstacles (which is Uncle Corey). So, I'd better go get a good seat before the show is over! Thank you all for everything!
Cinnamon, when you have time to post, I am always blessed by your heart and testimony. I am constantly praying for Scott and your family.
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