Dear Friends,
Last week I wrote to you that I was diagnosed with breast cancer just a few days before Christmas. Last Friday I had my first appointment with the oncologist. The plan is for me to have a lumpectomy about one month from now and then three weeks of daily radiation starting a few weeks later, after I have recovered from the surgery. I’m told the main side effect of the radiation is fatigue. Assuming all goes according to plan with no complications, this may mean operating at a lower capacity for a couple of months between February and April. I will also need to go off the oral contraceptives that are currently preventing me from having migraines and take hormone blockers instead. I plan to try tapering off slowly in order to see how things go and figure out how to manage any recurrence of the migraine state I experienced in 2023. I’ll keep you updated. I appreciate prayers for healing (Still thinking how great it would be if this lump just disappeared!) and for no complications, in particular, no migraines.
I’ve been feeling a little more anxious about all this since meeting with the oncologist and learning more about what radiation therapy entails and the need for hormone blockers. I’m also a bit worried about having to do general anesthesia, since I have reacted badly to it in the past. (My body seems to grossly overreact to most drugs.) But I’ve been told the anesthesiologist should be able to make adjustments once I explain what has gone wrong before.
This week, I have been reading these words of Jesus to his disciples as he prepared for his execution.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” - John 14:27 (NIV)
I’ve been thinking about the statement, “I do not give as the world gives,” and wondering what, specifically, Jesus has in mind with this contrast. I’m struck by the reality and the reliability of his peace in me. Even feeling a bit more anxious this week, still I find in myself a peace that is far greater than any fears or worries. I am praying that in whatever challenges you are facing, during this season or seasons to come, you will have the same peace. If you need peace today, Jesus is the one who can provide it. Pray with me if you like.
Jesus, my life belongs to you. I entrust myself to you and to your great love and unending grace. Help me to know that, no matter what happens in this world, your love and faithfulness remain unchanging. Fill me with your presence and your peace and with the hope of life that lasts into eternity.
Love in Christ,
Michelle
