purpose in the process - health update

I haven't written on my blog in so long, but have been feeling really called to share this part of my life and current season and I figured my blog is a good way to do that<3

I have shared bits and pieces, and posted on Instagram after spinal surgery in November, but the journey is still underway, and we still have a bit of a ways to go!

I've told a lot of people close to me when they ask how I am, that this has been one of the richest but hardest seasons I've faced. The sovereigness, grace and peace of the Lord never leaves us, even in the unknown and difficult circumstances we face. That's rich. That's love. That's peace that this world can't provide. But it's also hard. No one wants to be looked at by more than 1 doctor being told the same thing that the tumor I had and what I'm facing is "rare and serious". Yesterday at my appointment with a radiation oncologist (who was so kind and helpful) told me that Harvard did a study and a ballpark of less than 20 people have had this type of tumor in the past 80 years... woah!! (I also am keeping the name/ type of tumor I had private from this view just because I am more comfortable with that at this point.) Yes, surgery was successful and the tumor was removed; PRAISE JESUS! however, pathology came back about a month ago with some concerning characteristics of the tumor that are not usually found, most of these types of tumors are grade 2 and mine was grade 3, I will leave it at that.

Because of this, my doctor got me set up with a great team of radiation oncologists to look into radiation treatment, and that is the step we are looking at taking next to prevent this tumor from coming back, or cells that may of been left behind spreading.

What's next: There is a high chance they will have to get a lumbar puncture soon to make sure nothing is in my spinal fluid, especially before we started radiation, so I would appreciate so much prayers for a successful procedure and clear results. We are in the process of getting my radiation treatment plan in place, and should hopefully be meeting with my doctor soon for that. I will update with any news on that. As far as running goes (because that is one of my most frequently asked Qs), I am not cleared to run at this point, and I am not sure when I will be. But that's ok, my health means numbers more right now! I have been going on walks almost every day and I am SOOO thankful for that. Safe to say I'm living up to my last name right now pretty good ;))

I hold onto the peace, comfort, joy, hope and strength the Lord provides. There is truly no way to walk through life's valleys without it. Without His strength I am nothing. Every true characteristic of Jesus will meet you right where you are. Every time. God doesn't promise easy. But He promises HIM. And in Him, we never walk alone. Wherever you find yourself today, invite His strength to carry you, and watch Him. He's got you. He will never let go of you.

Psalm 18:2 - "The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust"

1 Chronicles 16:11 - "Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His presence continually."

I will do my best to keep updating on my blog. Thank you for all your prayers and please continue. Love you all!

LOVE,

AW