Overcoming side effects

Have been trying to gather together a few words to describe my last couple of weeks but my energy levels have been so low I couldn't even think!! After our strawberry tea afternoon all my hair has now gone. This was a strange experience - many had told me it was their most traumatic part of the journey. It is distressing for anyone I think but I remind myself that it is only temporary. I have now got used to the bald look - maybe I'll muster up the courage to share it online some of these days. The wig does look good, if different, so I'll be able to go out in disguise! I now have a new respect for Harry Morrow hairstyles - your heads must be freezing all the time guys and pillows are now a funny sensation!!

The side effects of chemotherapy are at times challenging. We take so much for granted each day like the taste of our food. Whilst mine is being really compromised by a very metallic taste I find myself seeking after strong tastes to overcome the metal. Yesterday I found a real answer - Praise God. My friend came to visit with a new bandana. We had a really good time talking about God and as we did so I realised that the taste in My mouth had greatly improved. You see the sweet taste of God's name on my lips was enough to dispel the poison in my system. Believe me this is clearly a case of taste and see that He is good.

Another side effect has been tinnitus - the constant ringing sound in my ears. Now whilst I am learning to be content in all circumstances this ringing is not exactly a glorious melody in which to rest. Yesterday afternoon I actioned the words of scripture that God has not given me a spirit of timidity but of power and love and self control. (2 Tim 1 v7) So I got the ipod going at full blast with praise songs, ear phones in and voice belting out those words. Praising God is a powerful and effective weapon and the tinnitus was overcome. Isn't God just the absolute best. By the way the words of the beautiful song 'Healer' by Kari Jobe are perfect for such occasions.

Whilst I have no control over how my body will respond I do have choices to make daily how I will respond mentally and spiritually. Learning to be content in all circumstances has proven vital and God's promise in Isaiah 43 that I have been redeemed, paid for, am never alone, will pass trough waters which will not consume me and fire that will not burn me remains my steadfast security.

Strawberry Tea

Just reporting in after an amazing weekend in Cranfield. On Saturday afternoon Elaine and her fantastic army of helpers had organised a strawberry tea to raise money for breast cancer care and show their support for Judy and myself. We had an awesome time, God blessed us with beautiful sunshine and almost £1100 was raised - an absolutely incredible achievement in 90 minutes! This again is what it is like to do life with amazing friends. Well done everyone and thanks to all the family and friends who travelled to sunny Cranfield.

Home Sweet Home

Well folks, just to report that I have completed my first session of chemotherapy in the Northern Ireland Cancer Centre and have returned home to rest. I had a three night stay and despite a few delays and hiccups everything has gone well. I met some amazing people on the journey and managed to complete a cookie challenge in the process. Have a look at the urban angel website for detail.

Since I came home on Thursday night I have experienced exhaustion that I would not have imagined possible!! But a little verse from God's word has truly sustained me: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. "(2 Cor 12 v9) I recognise that this is only the beginning of my process but with God's word filled to overflowing with His promises I rest assured in His great unending love.

Can I just encourage you to never under estimate the power of your words - I received so many beautiful words of encouragement and scripture yet again that it truly is medicine to the body and soul. Thank you all and God Bless