We just received the results from the last of the tests Gabriel underwent in the the past month. These are critical tests as they mark the one year anniversary of the diagnosis of aggressive brain cancer, and the doctors have told us that the first 12 to 18 months are "very critical". After a year of often intense, life threatening treatments, we are absolutely delighted to report that our little man is cancer free ... medically speaking, "in remission". Although he still has a long road ahead of him, we are feeling thankful for so much:
* diagnosis done at just the right time.
* survival of two brain surgeries totalling more than 9 hours
* Gabe's determination to walk again after surgery
* minimal side effects from 31 treatments of cranial/spinal radiation
* Gabe's acceptance of his new hair style ... bald is beautiful!
* God's intervention with regards to his chemo. treatments. He preserved him and guided the Dr.'s to quit half way through due to the potential for heart failure.
* for our church family, neighbours and complete strangers who reached out in our time of need
* God's provision during five months of Carmine being off work
* the testing of our faith and how God's grace was upon our entire family this past year
* diagnosis done at just the right time.
* survival of two brain surgeries totalling more than 9 hours
* Gabe's determination to walk again after surgery
* minimal side effects from 31 treatments of cranial/spinal radiation
* Gabe's acceptance of his new hair style ... bald is beautiful!
* God's intervention with regards to his chemo. treatments. He preserved him and guided the Dr.'s to quit half way through due to the potential for heart failure.
* for our church family, neighbours and complete strangers who reached out in our time of need
* God's provision during five months of Carmine being off work
* the testing of our faith and how God's grace was upon our entire family this past year
* A "wish" come true with our trip to Switzerland and a train trip in the mountains
It may seem strange to be "thankful" for something that many people have suggested would be the worst thing that could happen to them, however, how can faith be of value if it is not tested? What an opportunity for our children to see that the faith of their parents is one that is tried and tested and is more valuable than gold. They see us praising Him, reading His word (Bible) and praying to Him and now they get to see Him in action ... how blessed we are indeed!
Our prayers for Gabe right now are that he will continue to grow in stature and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ in the coming months. In addition, if the Lord sees fit, complete healing to his little body is our deepest desire. We also trust that the Lord be glorified through this journey ... after all, that is why we were created ... " to glorify God and enjoy Him forever". Your continued prayers over the next three months would be appreciated. His next round of tests will be scheduled for April.
The Mama C
It may seem strange to be "thankful" for something that many people have suggested would be the worst thing that could happen to them, however, how can faith be of value if it is not tested? What an opportunity for our children to see that the faith of their parents is one that is tried and tested and is more valuable than gold. They see us praising Him, reading His word (Bible) and praying to Him and now they get to see Him in action ... how blessed we are indeed!
Our prayers for Gabe right now are that he will continue to grow in stature and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ in the coming months. In addition, if the Lord sees fit, complete healing to his little body is our deepest desire. We also trust that the Lord be glorified through this journey ... after all, that is why we were created ... " to glorify God and enjoy Him forever". Your continued prayers over the next three months would be appreciated. His next round of tests will be scheduled for April.
The Mama C
Awesome news and what an amazing journey and testimony to be tried and tested and to have the Lord carry you all through this triumphantly.
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