Update on Angela

It's been a crazy few days. There's nothing like having all the experts tell you there's nothing to worry about and then hear them say, "we are just as surprised as you."

Following Angela's surgery yesterday, where tumors the size of grapefruits were scheduled to be removed, we found out that they were krukenberg tumors (a cancerous growth). They suspect it started in her stomach, but we won't know more until after more pathology (people that look at the cells under a microscope) reports come back. It looks like she'll begin chemo a week from today.  On top of that we'll have to figure out the hormone replacement thing now that both her ovaries are gone.

In and through it all, we have experienced God's grace and peace. I honestly don't know how people go through the tough stuff of life without the certain hope we have in Christ.  You'd think that we'd both be freaking out right now, but God's grace and peace has been tangible.

Tons of people are praying and we've received countless offers for all kinds of help.  We are well loved and really appreciate everyone's generosity.  Angela's mom has been a huge help with all of Angela's personal care.  My mom is watching our kids all this week on the Island and they are having so much fun they don't want to come home.  Moms are awesome!

I went for a walk outside the first night and the song Faithful One came to my lips:

Faithful One, so unchanging
Ageless One, You're my Rock of peace
Lord of all, I depend on You
I call out to You, again and again
I call out to You, again and again
You are my Rock in times of trouble
You lift me up when I fall down
All through the storm
Your love is the anchor
My hope is in You alone

I have been encouraged by the truth in its words and in the Scriptures people have sent.

Angela has been awesome. She is responding to hard news really well.  A number of times in our talks through the day or night, she has remarked on the sustaining peace she is experiencing through everything.  Ang's colour, alertness, and movement are way better today and that is very encouraging.

The doctors and nurses have been helpful and attentive.  One nurse had a grumpy disposition at first, but Ang has found a way into his heart. :)  Our evening nurse is awesome...  he is Filipino and has such a grace about him.  Whenever he checks Ang's vitals, he gives the thumbs up followed by (in a Filipino accent), "goooood numbers... goooood numbers."  Our surgeon, Dr. McAlpine, is a rockstar... I don't know what they pay her, but she deserves a raise.  She's gone to bat for us on a few occasions with the "system" and is steamrolling things along.

On the logistical side we are going home tomorrow.  Our kids are returning home on Sunday. Angela's mom will live with us for the next week, then my Mom for the third week.  We meet next Wednesday with the BC Cancer Agency and begin that whole process.

Please continue to pray. God is good and He is able; we are trusting Him.  We're not asking, "why?" (because He is God and that's sufficient for us), we're just asking, "how long?"