It's been a frustrating few weeks with technology - our ADSL line has been giving us grief so, once again, I have not been able to update the blog for a while.
Nikki is due to go for her next course of Chemo on Thursday this week. She usually goes on a Wednesday but not this week because of the public holiday. We're so glad it worked out that way as our special friends, Rod, Val and Natalie are visiting from the USA and will be in Cape Town on Wednesday so we will all get together to see them then. Val's humour is always like medicine to us and we look forward to a good dose of laughter therapy!!
Our most recent news is that Nikki met with her Rheumatologist about a week and a half ago and he was very concerned about the development of the arthritis in her feet. He sent her for x rays as he was convinced there was permanent damage in the joints. But he phoned Nikki last week with the results of the tests and said that the x rays showed absolutely no permanent damage in the joints, which was very surprising to him. Praise our God!!
Other than that, Nikki continues to struggle with pain, inflammationa nd stiffness in her joints daily. Usually mornings are worst so she has continued to rest in the morning and seems to be better on most days in the afternoon.
She has had very few side effects from the chemotherapy other than hair loss and hot flushes, but her greatest struggle (physically) is with the arthritis which is relentless, so please continue to pray into this area. We continue to stand firm and beleive our God for her complete healing. As always, thank you for standing with us. Here is a photo of Nix at Daniel's 5th bithday party.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Friday, December 4, 2009
Clay therapy
We've had some trouble with our home internet connection this week - so apologies for the lack of updates and info over the last few days.
On Monday a group of us went through to the Clay Cafe in Hout Bay where we spent the morning chatting over coffee while painting our chosen clay items. It really was such an enjoyable morning and made us realise how important it is to take time out every now and then just to get away and have some fun together. Because this walk with Nix is so intense, it really was therapy! Thank you so much Loren for organising it. Below is a pic of us with our creations, which still need to be fired when the true colours will develop. So they look rather uninspiring in this pic (maybe I should include an "after pic" when they are done!). In this photo are: Nikki, Tania, Loren, Eve and Natalie
Yesterday was Nikki & Adrian's 9th wedding anniversary and they went out to dinner to celebrate. Adrian spoiled Nix with a beautiful eternity ring which she absolutely loves!
Nikki has been feeling better the last few days, apart from some nausea following the rich food last night at the Food Barn (she has been following a very strict diet of mostly raw veg, fruit, nuts and grilled fish or chicken over the past few months but decided to abandon that ship last night - with good reason) She said that the food was so delicious, it was worth it!
Nikki met with her rheumatologist again today and after her consultation, he sent her for more x-rays. She was pretty exhausted after the afternoon at the hospital so I still need to chat to her to get the news on the appointment and the latest news from Dr G.
Other than that, the week has flown past in a haze of year end functions and school activities. The end of the year is in full view now!
This scripture is just beautiful. It is only God who can give us true hope, joy and peace and it is amazing to be able to tap into those gifts and experience His hope, joy and peace on a daily basis:
Romans 15:13
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
On Monday a group of us went through to the Clay Cafe in Hout Bay where we spent the morning chatting over coffee while painting our chosen clay items. It really was such an enjoyable morning and made us realise how important it is to take time out every now and then just to get away and have some fun together. Because this walk with Nix is so intense, it really was therapy! Thank you so much Loren for organising it. Below is a pic of us with our creations, which still need to be fired when the true colours will develop. So they look rather uninspiring in this pic (maybe I should include an "after pic" when they are done!). In this photo are: Nikki, Tania, Loren, Eve and Natalie
Yesterday was Nikki & Adrian's 9th wedding anniversary and they went out to dinner to celebrate. Adrian spoiled Nix with a beautiful eternity ring which she absolutely loves!
Nikki has been feeling better the last few days, apart from some nausea following the rich food last night at the Food Barn (she has been following a very strict diet of mostly raw veg, fruit, nuts and grilled fish or chicken over the past few months but decided to abandon that ship last night - with good reason) She said that the food was so delicious, it was worth it!
Nikki met with her rheumatologist again today and after her consultation, he sent her for more x-rays. She was pretty exhausted after the afternoon at the hospital so I still need to chat to her to get the news on the appointment and the latest news from Dr G.
Other than that, the week has flown past in a haze of year end functions and school activities. The end of the year is in full view now!
This scripture is just beautiful. It is only God who can give us true hope, joy and peace and it is amazing to be able to tap into those gifts and experience His hope, joy and peace on a daily basis:
Romans 15:13
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Super-Dan Day!
Oh what fun it is to be a child!! It was Daniel's 5th birthday and his Superman (Super-Dan) party today. As has become the tradition, we all congregated at Afton Grove to celebrate the latest important birthday in our lives. Precious Daniel is rather taken with Superman and Nikki did an unbelievable job with the party. The children feasted and then hunted for treasure using crypic codes from outer space and the main attraction - pièce de résistance - was the birthday cake, a chocolate dome covered with Smarties and Astros which Daniel had to smash open with a hammer in order to reveal the cake and "sweet treasures" inside. It was a great success and we all feel like we had a good dose of fun and sugar today!
I am constantly amazed and humbled by the strength that Nikki shows though this walk. Just this week, I have found a new appreciation for my sister. I managed to develop a pinched nerve while running last weekend and have been walking around with a nagging pain in my lower back and right leg for the last week. It is so debilitating and at times I find that I feel quite irritable just because I feel so drained by the ever-present pain. But whenever I feel my small pain, I am reminded of my beautiful sister who lives in a state of constant inflammation and severe pain and who walks so gracefully through it all. She just blows me away! It has served as a reminder to me to continually lift her up in prayer.
While out for lunch yesterday, I bumped into an artist friend and was so touched by her story. She (along with so many others) has been praying for Nikki, but said that in the past week, as she prayed, she felt led to listen to a song which she knows is special to Nikki and has helped carry her a long way on this journey. As she listened and prayed, she was so inspired that she began to paint - she painted and painted - and produced a number of beautiful works of art (I think she said 5) through the week as she was inspired.
I have included the lyrics of the song below:
"Voice Of Truth" - Casting Crowns
Oh what I would do to have
The kind of faith it takes to climb out of this boat I'm in
Onto the crashing waves
To step out of my comfort zone
To the realm of the unknown - where Jesus is
And He's holding out his hand
But the waves are calling out my name and they laugh at me
Reminding me of all the times I've tried before and failed
The waves they keep on telling me
Time and time again, "Boy, you'll never win! You'll never win"
But the voice of truth tells me a different story
And the voice of truth says "Do not be afraid!"
And the voice of truth says "This is for My glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth
Oh what I would do to have
The kind of strength it takes to stand before a giant
With just a sling and a stone
Surrounded by the sound of a thousand warriors
Shaking in their armor
Wishing they'd have had the strength to stand
But the giant's calling out my name and he laughs at me
Reminding me of all the times I've tried before and failed
The giant keeps on telling me
Time and time again, "Boy, you'll never win! You'll never win"
But the voice of truth tells me a different story
And the voice of truth says "Do not be afraid!"
And the voice of truth says "This is for My glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth
But the stone was just the right size
To put the giant on the ground
And the waves they don't seem so high
From on top of them looking down
I will soar with the wings of eagles
When I stop and listen to the sound of Jesus
Singing over me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth
I am constantly amazed and humbled by the strength that Nikki shows though this walk. Just this week, I have found a new appreciation for my sister. I managed to develop a pinched nerve while running last weekend and have been walking around with a nagging pain in my lower back and right leg for the last week. It is so debilitating and at times I find that I feel quite irritable just because I feel so drained by the ever-present pain. But whenever I feel my small pain, I am reminded of my beautiful sister who lives in a state of constant inflammation and severe pain and who walks so gracefully through it all. She just blows me away! It has served as a reminder to me to continually lift her up in prayer.
While out for lunch yesterday, I bumped into an artist friend and was so touched by her story. She (along with so many others) has been praying for Nikki, but said that in the past week, as she prayed, she felt led to listen to a song which she knows is special to Nikki and has helped carry her a long way on this journey. As she listened and prayed, she was so inspired that she began to paint - she painted and painted - and produced a number of beautiful works of art (I think she said 5) through the week as she was inspired.
I have included the lyrics of the song below:
"Voice Of Truth" - Casting Crowns
Oh what I would do to have
The kind of faith it takes to climb out of this boat I'm in
Onto the crashing waves
To step out of my comfort zone
To the realm of the unknown - where Jesus is
And He's holding out his hand
But the waves are calling out my name and they laugh at me
Reminding me of all the times I've tried before and failed
The waves they keep on telling me
Time and time again, "Boy, you'll never win! You'll never win"
But the voice of truth tells me a different story
And the voice of truth says "Do not be afraid!"
And the voice of truth says "This is for My glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth
Oh what I would do to have
The kind of strength it takes to stand before a giant
With just a sling and a stone
Surrounded by the sound of a thousand warriors
Shaking in their armor
Wishing they'd have had the strength to stand
But the giant's calling out my name and he laughs at me
Reminding me of all the times I've tried before and failed
The giant keeps on telling me
Time and time again, "Boy, you'll never win! You'll never win"
But the voice of truth tells me a different story
And the voice of truth says "Do not be afraid!"
And the voice of truth says "This is for My glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth
But the stone was just the right size
To put the giant on the ground
And the waves they don't seem so high
From on top of them looking down
I will soar with the wings of eagles
When I stop and listen to the sound of Jesus
Singing over me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Chemo Day
Today was Nikki's 5th round of chemo and things seem to have gone well with the treatment. They used a larger needle and managed to find a vein easily this time. The chemo was all done by 2.30 pm! This was a record for her as she is usually the last person in the ward. So it was a relief to finish up a little earlier today. She is feeling strong and even managed to do some shopping with Daniel and Hilda this afternoon before heading home. Long may it last!
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Chemo Countdown...
Lovely lazy Sunday again... We spent the afternoon with the family at Afton Grove. The children were so excited to spot the resident Goshawk on her nest in the Bluegum tree near the chicken run (keeping an eye on the prize at all times!) Pops put the telescope up so they could all get a really good look at the bird. They never tire of the fun to be had at Afton and managed to find a new Chameleon too. They have decided to decorate their treehouse for Christmas this year - that will keep them busy for the next while.
Nix has been really battling with sore joints over the last few days and looks quite tired. She has been battling to sleep at night too which is no good for the joints - so it's a vicious cycle sometimes. It has been a long and painful journey and even though she is still unbelievably strong, it can take it's toll on her every now and again. Anything is more challenging when you are sleep-deprived too. Please could we ask you to keep her in your prayers and ask God to bless her with sweet sleep and to restore her energy, especially for the coming week.
Proverbs 3:24
"If you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet".
The week ahead is another busy one with her next Chemo treatment scheduled for this Wednesday, so please keep her in your prayers ahead of that. She will go for blood tests as usual on Tuesday to determine whether she will be able to go ahead with treatment on Wednesday so we are praying for another good report with the tests so that she can continue without any hiccups or delays.
Daniel's 5th birthday is planned for next Sunday, the 29th, and Nix will be doing a fair amount of party planning and preparation ahead of that (we will help her, but she loves to do it and is so good at it - she always puts her original and unconventional spin on things) so please pray that she will be strong and fit for the party and all that comes with it. We pray that she will be able to really enjoy it with her precious little boy.
Mark 11:24
"Whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them."
This passage of scripture and accompanying study notes (below) have meant so much to me in the past week, and I would like to share them with all of you too:
2 Corinthians 4:7
"But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies."
Study Notes: But we - Not only the apostles, but all true believers. Have this treasure - Of divine light, love, glory. In earthen vessels - In frail, feeble, perishing bodies. He proceeds to show, that afflictions, yea, death itself, are so far from hindering the ministration of the Spirit, that they even further it, sharpen the ministers, and increase the fruit. That the excellence of the power, which works these in us, may undeniably appear to be of God.
Nix has been really battling with sore joints over the last few days and looks quite tired. She has been battling to sleep at night too which is no good for the joints - so it's a vicious cycle sometimes. It has been a long and painful journey and even though she is still unbelievably strong, it can take it's toll on her every now and again. Anything is more challenging when you are sleep-deprived too. Please could we ask you to keep her in your prayers and ask God to bless her with sweet sleep and to restore her energy, especially for the coming week.
Proverbs 3:24
"If you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet".
The week ahead is another busy one with her next Chemo treatment scheduled for this Wednesday, so please keep her in your prayers ahead of that. She will go for blood tests as usual on Tuesday to determine whether she will be able to go ahead with treatment on Wednesday so we are praying for another good report with the tests so that she can continue without any hiccups or delays.
Daniel's 5th birthday is planned for next Sunday, the 29th, and Nix will be doing a fair amount of party planning and preparation ahead of that (we will help her, but she loves to do it and is so good at it - she always puts her original and unconventional spin on things) so please pray that she will be strong and fit for the party and all that comes with it. We pray that she will be able to really enjoy it with her precious little boy.
Mark 11:24
"Whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them."
This passage of scripture and accompanying study notes (below) have meant so much to me in the past week, and I would like to share them with all of you too:
2 Corinthians 4:7
"But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies."
Study Notes: But we - Not only the apostles, but all true believers. Have this treasure - Of divine light, love, glory. In earthen vessels - In frail, feeble, perishing bodies. He proceeds to show, that afflictions, yea, death itself, are so far from hindering the ministration of the Spirit, that they even further it, sharpen the ministers, and increase the fruit. That the excellence of the power, which works these in us, may undeniably appear to be of God.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Good Times
We celebrated Adrian and Queenie's (our mom's nickname) birthdays with breakfast at the Twelve Apostles Hotel this morning - where we indulged on oysters and champagne to start, followed by almost everything under the sun and ending with jellytots and smarties! A good time was had by all and everyone was ready for a fat siesta after all that. This afternoon the grandies got together for present opening and tea at Afton with the Queen (that nickname again!) Here are some photos taken at breakfast. For those who dont know, in the bottom photo are (L-R) Chris, Eve, Sydney (others were at school), Nix, Adrian, Louise (aka Queenie), Hilda and Andy (Adrian's folks). Tuesday, November 17, 2009
2 Special Birthdays
Yikes! I CAN NOT believe it's been 10 days since my last post. Last week went by in a whirlwind - Pete was away and our little Megan took part in her very first concert, a ballet concert where she was a mouse in a Cat and Mouse dance (which lasted about 1 min 15 seconds in total) but to her, she was the world's most important ballerina mouse! She loved every minute but is paying the price now with exhaustion after all the late nights (the life of a starlet!)
Nix has had her ups and downs as always. She has had some very challenging days this last week,but continues to be strong in spirit and in wit. I spent this afternoon with her - wrapping and trying to hide awkwardly shaped presents for Mom and Adrian's birthdays - both tomorrow. (Can you believe it? Adrian's brother shares a birthday with our Dad too...strange...?)
In all of this, we are convinced that "nothing can seperate us from the love of God" (Rom 8:39) which we continue to feel tangibly every day.
Lamentations 3:22
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases, his mercies never come to an end, they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Nix has had her ups and downs as always. She has had some very challenging days this last week,but continues to be strong in spirit and in wit. I spent this afternoon with her - wrapping and trying to hide awkwardly shaped presents for Mom and Adrian's birthdays - both tomorrow. (Can you believe it? Adrian's brother shares a birthday with our Dad too...strange...?)
In all of this, we are convinced that "nothing can seperate us from the love of God" (Rom 8:39) which we continue to feel tangibly every day.
Lamentations 3:22
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases, his mercies never come to an end, they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Miracle in Progress
Here is a photo taken TODAY at the Mentoring Ladies lunch. We had to come dressed up as something beginning with an M. Great minds think alike! We hadn't consulted with each other beforehand but, of course, arrived wearing the same glasses (Yay for 3D movies!). I was supposed to be (stretch the imagination now...) the lady from Murder she wrote (okay, not much time to organise the outfit!). Nix came as a Miracle in Progress! She had the words written onto the glasses! (Thanks so much for the photo Joan x)Celebrating Life and Friendship
It's Saturday again, and it's bucketing down with rain! (I'm a poet!) Crazy weather!!
The latest news on Nix is that she was exhausted and spent most of yesterday in bed following her blood transfusion on Thursday. But it was a busy week with the tests on Tuesday, Chemo on Wednesday and a blood transfusion on Thursday and she wasn't able to rest as she usually does during the day this week so it could be a reason for the exhaustion.
The transfusion went well (it took ages - she was only home after 8 on Thursday evening). It must be a really strange feeling having someone else's blood flowing into your body. But she decided rather than being "freaked out" about it, she would make friends with it and "embrace" the situation and her new body fluids! So she decided that it must have come from a very special person and she was honoured to share this with them. And, in Nikki style, she took the opportunity to make a new friend, even though she has no idea who they are!
I saw her today and she is looking and feeling much better. She has a lovely pink colour in her face again since the transfusion and I must say she just gets prettier and prettier the further she walks down this road (note to self: put a recent pic on the blog!)
We have precious family friends, Lindsay and Mary Mitchell, living in Spain. We were so blessed by this poem which Mary was inspired to write for Nix. Enjoy...
Nikki's Battle - Mary Mitchell
You´re truly blessed, you know how much
For you're loved and treasured in that such
Your family and friends pray every day
And truly believe you're here to stay
Your sister Eve the best to be had
Writes her Blog news so Friends dont feel sad
It keeps us informed of all family news
So we can all pray that you'll not lose
This battle of yours is shared by all
The prayers that are said for you, are tall
They all are heard by God above
He knows how much you are loved
This illness can only make you strong
Trust in God as he's never wrong
Faith and love, it's there to share
With those of us, who are in God's care
Love and be loved it is the best
You ask why is it me, is it a test
God only knows, why and what for
In Him we trust and pray some more.
We have been truly overwhelmed by the love and friendship shown by so many people the world over. We have been carried by your prayers. We know and have felt God's love shown through all of you and continue to thank God for each one of you as we realise that these friendships are the most precious gifts in life.
Ecclesiastes 4:9:
"Two are better than one,
because they have a good reward for their labour.
If they fall down,
they can help each other up.
But pity those who fall
and have no one to help them up!
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm,
But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."
The latest news on Nix is that she was exhausted and spent most of yesterday in bed following her blood transfusion on Thursday. But it was a busy week with the tests on Tuesday, Chemo on Wednesday and a blood transfusion on Thursday and she wasn't able to rest as she usually does during the day this week so it could be a reason for the exhaustion.
The transfusion went well (it took ages - she was only home after 8 on Thursday evening). It must be a really strange feeling having someone else's blood flowing into your body. But she decided rather than being "freaked out" about it, she would make friends with it and "embrace" the situation and her new body fluids! So she decided that it must have come from a very special person and she was honoured to share this with them. And, in Nikki style, she took the opportunity to make a new friend, even though she has no idea who they are!
I saw her today and she is looking and feeling much better. She has a lovely pink colour in her face again since the transfusion and I must say she just gets prettier and prettier the further she walks down this road (note to self: put a recent pic on the blog!)
We have precious family friends, Lindsay and Mary Mitchell, living in Spain. We were so blessed by this poem which Mary was inspired to write for Nix. Enjoy...
Nikki's Battle - Mary Mitchell
You´re truly blessed, you know how much
For you're loved and treasured in that such
Your family and friends pray every day
And truly believe you're here to stay
Your sister Eve the best to be had
Writes her Blog news so Friends dont feel sad
It keeps us informed of all family news
So we can all pray that you'll not lose
This battle of yours is shared by all
The prayers that are said for you, are tall
They all are heard by God above
He knows how much you are loved
This illness can only make you strong
Trust in God as he's never wrong
Faith and love, it's there to share
With those of us, who are in God's care
Love and be loved it is the best
You ask why is it me, is it a test
God only knows, why and what for
In Him we trust and pray some more.
We have been truly overwhelmed by the love and friendship shown by so many people the world over. We have been carried by your prayers. We know and have felt God's love shown through all of you and continue to thank God for each one of you as we realise that these friendships are the most precious gifts in life.
Ecclesiastes 4:9:
"Two are better than one,
because they have a good reward for their labour.
If they fall down,
they can help each other up.
But pity those who fall
and have no one to help them up!
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm,
But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Good News!
Nikki went in for her CT scan yesterday to determine the current status of the cancer areas in her body. She met with the Oncologist today to discuss the results and there is good news. It seems that all the areas of cancer in her body are shrinking!!! PRAISE GOD!!!
She marched in to her 4th session of Chemo in high spirits and feeling strong. It was a great opportunity for her to sit with her good friend Lori who is visiting from Australia and to catch up on all her news.
Tomorrow Nix will be going in for a blood transfusion. The doctor has recommended it in order to boost her red blood cells and to help with her anaemia. So she will spend most of the day in hospital tomorrow (I think she will be in the Day Unit if anyone is wanting to pop in).
This evening, my precious dad has written something for the blog. So here are his thoughts:
Nikki had her 4th round of Chemo today as well as a medical re-assessment by Oncology, and the results show that all the areas of cancer have reduced. Praise the Lord for a good report!
When Adrian and Nikki brought us the news of the Doctor's report of the cancer during August, I felt the spirit leap inside of me and I immediately recalled the word of the Lord "Who's report will you believe?"
Ever since I have made a conscious decision to believe the report of the Lord and I have based my prayer directive on this confession. "In spite of the fact that the medical report says they cannot cure Nikki, we choose to believe in our creator God who says: "For I WILL restore health to you and HEAL your wounds says the Lord” - Jeremiah 30:17
Truly I can say with the prophet Habbakuk: “The Lord is my strength… (my invincible army), He makes me to walk, (not to stand still in terror, but to walk) & make (spiritual) progress upon my high places… (of suffering, trouble and responsibility) - Habbakuk 3:19
God is taking us all through a whole new walk in Him. I have come to learn that in everything He needs to become the very centre of our lives & focus. It is not about our agenda but about His agenda. As Job said "Yea, yet He slay me, yet will I praise Him".
God is Sovereign, God is Awesome and God is to be trusted & relied upon in all circumstances. We thank God and continue to trust Him for a complete restoration of health for Nikki.
She marched in to her 4th session of Chemo in high spirits and feeling strong. It was a great opportunity for her to sit with her good friend Lori who is visiting from Australia and to catch up on all her news.
Tomorrow Nix will be going in for a blood transfusion. The doctor has recommended it in order to boost her red blood cells and to help with her anaemia. So she will spend most of the day in hospital tomorrow (I think she will be in the Day Unit if anyone is wanting to pop in).
This evening, my precious dad has written something for the blog. So here are his thoughts:
Nikki had her 4th round of Chemo today as well as a medical re-assessment by Oncology, and the results show that all the areas of cancer have reduced. Praise the Lord for a good report!
When Adrian and Nikki brought us the news of the Doctor's report of the cancer during August, I felt the spirit leap inside of me and I immediately recalled the word of the Lord "Who's report will you believe?"
Ever since I have made a conscious decision to believe the report of the Lord and I have based my prayer directive on this confession. "In spite of the fact that the medical report says they cannot cure Nikki, we choose to believe in our creator God who says: "For I WILL restore health to you and HEAL your wounds says the Lord” - Jeremiah 30:17
Truly I can say with the prophet Habbakuk: “The Lord is my strength… (my invincible army), He makes me to walk, (not to stand still in terror, but to walk) & make (spiritual) progress upon my high places… (of suffering, trouble and responsibility) - Habbakuk 3:19
God is taking us all through a whole new walk in Him. I have come to learn that in everything He needs to become the very centre of our lives & focus. It is not about our agenda but about His agenda. As Job said "Yea, yet He slay me, yet will I praise Him".
God is Sovereign, God is Awesome and God is to be trusted & relied upon in all circumstances. We thank God and continue to trust Him for a complete restoration of health for Nikki.
Monday, November 2, 2009
By His wounds we are healed
Nikki and Adrian returned yesterday evening from a lovely weekend away with the family. Just, as always, a bit too short!
Please join us in prayer as we go into this week. Pray that God's love and peace would continue to surround Nikki and her family as she goes for her tests on Tuesday. We continue to believe God that the doctors would be amazed as they study the results of the tests. We continue to thank God for what He has done for us, because is it "by His wounds we are healed" - Isaiah 53:5.
I received the following excerpt from a friend this week which has been a wonderful encouragement:
GARDEN OF FOUNTAINS
Behold, My hand is upon thee to bless thee and to accomplish My good purpose. For this hour I have prepared thy heart and in My kindness I will not let thee fail.
Only relinquish all things into My hands; for I can work freely only as ye release Me by complete committal – both of thyself and others. Even as was written of old: ‘Commit they way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass’. (Psa. 37:5) I will be thy sustaining strength; and My peace shall garrison thy mind. Only trust ME – that all I do is done in love.
For adversities must of necessity come. They are a part of the pattern of life’s pilgrimage for every individual; and who can escape them? But I say unto thee, that for those who walk in Me, for those who are encircled by the intercessory prayers of My children, I shall make of the suffering, yea, I shall make of the trials a steppingstone to future blessing. (2 Cor. 4:17, Living Letters)
My arms are around thee, and never have I loved thee more! I will make thee like A GARDEN OF FOUNTAINS whose streams are fed by the mountain springs.
And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones; and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. (Isa. 58.11)
Please join us in prayer as we go into this week. Pray that God's love and peace would continue to surround Nikki and her family as she goes for her tests on Tuesday. We continue to believe God that the doctors would be amazed as they study the results of the tests. We continue to thank God for what He has done for us, because is it "by His wounds we are healed" - Isaiah 53:5.
I received the following excerpt from a friend this week which has been a wonderful encouragement:
GARDEN OF FOUNTAINS
Behold, My hand is upon thee to bless thee and to accomplish My good purpose. For this hour I have prepared thy heart and in My kindness I will not let thee fail.
Only relinquish all things into My hands; for I can work freely only as ye release Me by complete committal – both of thyself and others. Even as was written of old: ‘Commit they way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass’. (Psa. 37:5) I will be thy sustaining strength; and My peace shall garrison thy mind. Only trust ME – that all I do is done in love.
For adversities must of necessity come. They are a part of the pattern of life’s pilgrimage for every individual; and who can escape them? But I say unto thee, that for those who walk in Me, for those who are encircled by the intercessory prayers of My children, I shall make of the suffering, yea, I shall make of the trials a steppingstone to future blessing. (2 Cor. 4:17, Living Letters)
My arms are around thee, and never have I loved thee more! I will make thee like A GARDEN OF FOUNTAINS whose streams are fed by the mountain springs.
And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones; and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. (Isa. 58.11)
Friday, October 30, 2009
A Weekend Away
The whole Boyd family (including Wayne and Heather and baby Cole who are in Cape Town for a visit) have gone away together for the weekend. It's always fun to get away but I am sure it will be therapy for all of them to be together again, enjoying a good dose of family time away from the pressures of home.
Nix has struggled with fevers this week and has had her usual dose of pain - worst in the mornings, but pretty consistent throughout the day. Her new quote is "I do (hurt) if I do and I do if I dont, so I do!" So if you see her around it's not because she's feeling fantastic, it's because she is "embracing" whatever is coming her way and "doing" in spite of it. She is such a soldier!
Next week, Nikki goes for her tests to see how effective the Chemo has been. The doctor has scheduled another dose of Chemo for this Wednesday regardless of the outcome of the tests.
So, with a hectic week ahead of them, we really pray for a blessed and fun time away for them this weekend and that God would continue His healing work in Nikki's body. We are believing for a good report when the test results come back - may the doctors be amazed!
Nix has struggled with fevers this week and has had her usual dose of pain - worst in the mornings, but pretty consistent throughout the day. Her new quote is "I do (hurt) if I do and I do if I dont, so I do!" So if you see her around it's not because she's feeling fantastic, it's because she is "embracing" whatever is coming her way and "doing" in spite of it. She is such a soldier!
Next week, Nikki goes for her tests to see how effective the Chemo has been. The doctor has scheduled another dose of Chemo for this Wednesday regardless of the outcome of the tests.
So, with a hectic week ahead of them, we really pray for a blessed and fun time away for them this weekend and that God would continue His healing work in Nikki's body. We are believing for a good report when the test results come back - may the doctors be amazed!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
The Good Report
Nikki met with her rheumatologist yesterday and he once again confirmed that she has the most severe case of arthritis he has seen in all his years of practice. It is a confusing and unique situation because she is running 2 different conditions at the same time. On the one hand, a totally over active immune system, which presents as severe arthritis (inflammation, joint pain, fevers, skin rashes and sore throat). On the other hand, cancer. The treatment for this is pushing the white blood cell count down, so ordinarily you would want to boost the immune system to up the help the white blood cell count. But due to the severity of the arthritis, this is dangerous. Nikki's doctor would like her to start again on the drug she was on a couple of months back (it basically shuts down / bypasses the immune system). But she has decided against it for now. Nikki told the doctor that she was believing in God for a miracle of complete healing and restoration in her body. He was very supportive and happy to hear that her faith was strong.
So, again we are faced with a choice: do we believe what we hear in the natural, or do we believe the report of the Lord? We know we serve a supernatural God! Just because we don't see a way doesn't mean that He doesn't have a way. No matter what the medical report says about Nikki's health (and that may be true according to medical science), we have another report and it says, "You will live and not die. God is restoring health unto you." With men it may be impossible, but with God all things are possible. So we choose today to believe the report of the Lord.
In spite of everything, and even when she is in immense pain, Nikki retains her sharp wit and unique sense of humour. I just thought that I should let you all know that as we know that many people are scared to visit or call or see her because they just dont know what they would say to her. She is just the same sweet Nix (with less hair!) and has us laughing and feeling at ease in no time at all. She is a breath of fresh air and a real testimony of character and strength through this trial. And the more hair she loses, the more beautiful she gets!
Jeremiah 49:14 (AMP)
"I have heard a report from the Lord…"
So, again we are faced with a choice: do we believe what we hear in the natural, or do we believe the report of the Lord? We know we serve a supernatural God! Just because we don't see a way doesn't mean that He doesn't have a way. No matter what the medical report says about Nikki's health (and that may be true according to medical science), we have another report and it says, "You will live and not die. God is restoring health unto you." With men it may be impossible, but with God all things are possible. So we choose today to believe the report of the Lord.
In spite of everything, and even when she is in immense pain, Nikki retains her sharp wit and unique sense of humour. I just thought that I should let you all know that as we know that many people are scared to visit or call or see her because they just dont know what they would say to her. She is just the same sweet Nix (with less hair!) and has us laughing and feeling at ease in no time at all. She is a breath of fresh air and a real testimony of character and strength through this trial. And the more hair she loses, the more beautiful she gets!
Jeremiah 49:14 (AMP)
"I have heard a report from the Lord…"
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Gearing up for the new week...
Another weekend has come and gone and it's been a good one. Nikki and the children thoroughly enjoyed being guests at Afton Grove for the weekend - I think the change did them all good. Alain (the guest house Manager) spoiled the kiddies with extra choccies and treats on their pillows each evening - he knows how they work ;-)
We took all the children up to Silvermine Dam for a picnic this afternoon while Nikki rested. Adrian is home safely this evening and we feasted on his catch of Baartman (?spelling?) for dinner - delish!!
Nikki meets with her doctors again tomorrow morning so please pray for wisdom from heaven for them and that they would be in agreement concerning her treatment (the Oncologist and the Rheumatologist seem to have very strong yet differing opinions regarding her treatment and the way forward with her - which leaves her feeling completely confused as you can imagine.)
We continue to walk in His grace and pray for His strength and guidance in the week ahead. Thank you all once again for your faithfulness in prayer. It means so much to us:
James 5:16
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
We took all the children up to Silvermine Dam for a picnic this afternoon while Nikki rested. Adrian is home safely this evening and we feasted on his catch of Baartman (?spelling?) for dinner - delish!!
Nikki meets with her doctors again tomorrow morning so please pray for wisdom from heaven for them and that they would be in agreement concerning her treatment (the Oncologist and the Rheumatologist seem to have very strong yet differing opinions regarding her treatment and the way forward with her - which leaves her feeling completely confused as you can imagine.)
We continue to walk in His grace and pray for His strength and guidance in the week ahead. Thank you all once again for your faithfulness in prayer. It means so much to us:
James 5:16
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Biscuits, Dishes and Hope!
Again – where has this week gone? I have tried 3 times this week to sit down and write this blog but have been called away for some or other reason and simply have not had a chance till now. It’s a gorgeous sunny Cape Town morning and we are taking it slow. Pete is out cycling and I have been baking biscuits with the girls who got new cookie cutters last week and haven’t had a chance to use them yet.
It has been a good week. Nikki has had a much better time following her last dose of Chemo. Mornings have been the most difficult for her and she has had a lot of pain and has had a fever most mornings this last week - but she has the taken time to rest in the mornings and has felt much better in the afternoons and evenings.
Sylvia (one of the staff at the guest house) told us that God was moving powerfully in a series of meetings they were holding in Ocean View this last week. She invited us to come on Wednesday evening. So, the original family went through together, Dad, Mom, Nix and Eve (fun – don’t get to do that much any more! In fact it’s a mind bend to work out when last we did!) To say we were blessed is an understatement.
Then, in true Nikki humour, we had a bowl movement party yesterday at Afton – to say thank you to the many wonderful and generous people who have helped us all out with meals and kids and lifts over the last little while. And (hence the name of the party) to return some of the 48569823 dishes Nikki had stacked up at home! Her home was beginning to look a bit like Boardmans crockery department. It was a beautiful afternoon and the kiddies played while we got to catch up with friends which was therapy for Nix who is such a sociable person and sometimes feels like she is in solitary confinement with the amount of rest she needs.
Adrian has gone away for a few days so Nikki and the kids are spending the weekend at Afton Grove. The children are so excited to be sleeping in one of the guest rooms. It’s like they are on holiday!
This scripture has really ministered to us over the last few days and speaks to us of God's incredible character. He is the reason we stand, our hope and the one we are holding on to with all our might in these days:
Lamentations 3: 19 - 24
I remember my affliction and my wandering, the biterness and the gall. I well remember them and my soul is downcast within me. Yet this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning, great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, "The Lord is my portion, therefore I will wait for him".
We continue to beleive for a miracle of complete healing for precious Nix.
It has been a good week. Nikki has had a much better time following her last dose of Chemo. Mornings have been the most difficult for her and she has had a lot of pain and has had a fever most mornings this last week - but she has the taken time to rest in the mornings and has felt much better in the afternoons and evenings.
Sylvia (one of the staff at the guest house) told us that God was moving powerfully in a series of meetings they were holding in Ocean View this last week. She invited us to come on Wednesday evening. So, the original family went through together, Dad, Mom, Nix and Eve (fun – don’t get to do that much any more! In fact it’s a mind bend to work out when last we did!) To say we were blessed is an understatement.
Then, in true Nikki humour, we had a bowl movement party yesterday at Afton – to say thank you to the many wonderful and generous people who have helped us all out with meals and kids and lifts over the last little while. And (hence the name of the party) to return some of the 48569823 dishes Nikki had stacked up at home! Her home was beginning to look a bit like Boardmans crockery department. It was a beautiful afternoon and the kiddies played while we got to catch up with friends which was therapy for Nix who is such a sociable person and sometimes feels like she is in solitary confinement with the amount of rest she needs.
Adrian has gone away for a few days so Nikki and the kids are spending the weekend at Afton Grove. The children are so excited to be sleeping in one of the guest rooms. It’s like they are on holiday!
This scripture has really ministered to us over the last few days and speaks to us of God's incredible character. He is the reason we stand, our hope and the one we are holding on to with all our might in these days:
Lamentations 3: 19 - 24
I remember my affliction and my wandering, the biterness and the gall. I well remember them and my soul is downcast within me. Yet this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning, great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, "The Lord is my portion, therefore I will wait for him".
We continue to beleive for a miracle of complete healing for precious Nix.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Happy Days
Where has the time gone? The weekend is almost over! (and Christmas catalogues have started to arrive in the post box which is incredibly frightening!!)
We spent this afternoon at my folk's home (which the children think is heaven on earth!) with the Boyd family and my parents, as we do most Sundays. The Webber family and sweet Ainslie joined us today too which was lovely.
Nikki is doing much better after her last dose of Chemo and hasnt struggled as much as she did with the previous rounds. It is answered prayer. Thank you Lord! So she and Adrian and the children have been able to enjoy some special family time together over the last few days. Moments to cherish.
Hannah is also back to her bubbly, joyful little self again and will be returning to school tomorrow much to her delight.
We thank God for his grace on Nikki and the family and pray that she will continue to feel strong going into the week ahead. Although her spirit remains strong, it so much easier to handle life when you are not feeling sick and sore!
We spent this afternoon at my folk's home (which the children think is heaven on earth!) with the Boyd family and my parents, as we do most Sundays. The Webber family and sweet Ainslie joined us today too which was lovely.
Nikki is doing much better after her last dose of Chemo and hasnt struggled as much as she did with the previous rounds. It is answered prayer. Thank you Lord! So she and Adrian and the children have been able to enjoy some special family time together over the last few days. Moments to cherish.
Hannah is also back to her bubbly, joyful little self again and will be returning to school tomorrow much to her delight.
We thank God for his grace on Nikki and the family and pray that she will continue to feel strong going into the week ahead. Although her spirit remains strong, it so much easier to handle life when you are not feeling sick and sore!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Chemo No 3
Nix had her third round of Chemo today - it was nothing short of a miracle that she was able to have the Chemo as her system has been so hammered by the bronchitis and fevers she was struggling with last week. In spite of this, she got the green light with the doctors after her blood tests.
All went well today - this time they started with an anti-histamine for hors d'oevres. They tempered the treatment a bit by giving her saline drips in between the Chemos (after her severe reaction last time, they weren't taking any chances). Nix handled the treatment very well today and just sounded a bit tired when I chatted to her this evening. The antihistamine has her feeling very drowsy. May she be blessed with sweet sleep tonight!
Hannah was diagnosed with Scarlet Fever today so she is in quarantine for the rest of the week but (apart from an all-over rash) is looking and sounding far more chirpy today. Daniel is still bouncing around and hasn't shown any symptoms of fever, neither have mine (said with much hope!).
Well, that concludes the first batch of Nikki's Chemo treatments. In about 3 weeks, she will go back for another whole batch of tests to confim the status of the Cancer and how the treatment has worked for her so far. So please stand with us in prayer at this time. We are trusting God for a miracle in Nikki's body and for a good report when the test results come back.
Please also pray for strength for Nikki as she goes into the week ahead as she always finds the first week after Chemo treatment very challenging.
Rom 8:28
"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
All went well today - this time they started with an anti-histamine for hors d'oevres. They tempered the treatment a bit by giving her saline drips in between the Chemos (after her severe reaction last time, they weren't taking any chances). Nix handled the treatment very well today and just sounded a bit tired when I chatted to her this evening. The antihistamine has her feeling very drowsy. May she be blessed with sweet sleep tonight!
Hannah was diagnosed with Scarlet Fever today so she is in quarantine for the rest of the week but (apart from an all-over rash) is looking and sounding far more chirpy today. Daniel is still bouncing around and hasn't shown any symptoms of fever, neither have mine (said with much hope!).
Well, that concludes the first batch of Nikki's Chemo treatments. In about 3 weeks, she will go back for another whole batch of tests to confim the status of the Cancer and how the treatment has worked for her so far. So please stand with us in prayer at this time. We are trusting God for a miracle in Nikki's body and for a good report when the test results come back.
Please also pray for strength for Nikki as she goes into the week ahead as she always finds the first week after Chemo treatment very challenging.
Rom 8:28
"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
Monday, October 12, 2009
The Peace that Surpasses all Understanding
We had a special time together this evening - I got to sit with Nix and Adrian and play Scrabble and just chat easily without interruptions - Rare these days, and something we haven't done in a long time.
Nikki is soldiering on and still fighting this flu / bronchitis bug. Please continue to pray with us that she when she goes for her blood tests tomorrow, her white blood count will be high enough and that she will be stong enough for her next dose of Chemo scheduled for Wednesday.
Hannah has picked up a vomiting bug and stayed home today with high temperatures. She spent the day in bed with mom and declared about half way through the day that lying in bed all day is "sooooooo boring!"
We are so grateful to know God in this walk. We know more than ever that everything that we need can be found in Him. We have His incredible peace, joy strength and hope which doesn't seem to make sense under the circumstances. When we are weak, then He is strong...
Phillipians 4:6
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Nikki is soldiering on and still fighting this flu / bronchitis bug. Please continue to pray with us that she when she goes for her blood tests tomorrow, her white blood count will be high enough and that she will be stong enough for her next dose of Chemo scheduled for Wednesday.
Hannah has picked up a vomiting bug and stayed home today with high temperatures. She spent the day in bed with mom and declared about half way through the day that lying in bed all day is "sooooooo boring!"
We are so grateful to know God in this walk. We know more than ever that everything that we need can be found in Him. We have His incredible peace, joy strength and hope which doesn't seem to make sense under the circumstances. When we are weak, then He is strong...
Phillipians 4:6
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Trying times & glorious gifts
This has been a trying week. Nikki is still battling bronchitis, really sore and inflamed joints and a constant migraine headache. The family have been hard hit this week with Andy (Adrian's dad) being admitted to hospital too - it seems he suffered a seisure as a result of an antibiotic he was on. But we are not moved. We continue to believe our God and she asks that we keep our faith and fight back!
As I write, there are four naked little bodies jumping on the bed next to me. They have been swimming (they have no need of restrictive clothing for this purpose) and are now dry. They are rejoicing in the fact that the weather has warmed up enough for swimming. I thank God for the joy and relief that they bring to us as we walk through this intense emotional time. Their energy is invigorating and their laughter is infectious. They love life and they love each other. They are walking in His grace and protection and couldn't be happier or more blessed. What incredible gifts, we are so thankful!!
Psalm 18:2
"The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock , in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies."
As I write, there are four naked little bodies jumping on the bed next to me. They have been swimming (they have no need of restrictive clothing for this purpose) and are now dry. They are rejoicing in the fact that the weather has warmed up enough for swimming. I thank God for the joy and relief that they bring to us as we walk through this intense emotional time. Their energy is invigorating and their laughter is infectious. They love life and they love each other. They are walking in His grace and protection and couldn't be happier or more blessed. What incredible gifts, we are so thankful!!
Psalm 18:2
"The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock , in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies."
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
A Comfort in the Chaos
Apologies for the lapse of time between posts. Our modem has been playing up and between that and the chaos of life at the moment, time passes really quickly between them!
Nikki has had another rough week and actually spent last night / early hours of this morning in hospital. The cold she's been battling developed into bronchitis with a high fever over the last few days. Her fever peaked last night and the docs were concerned about possible pneumonia so she had to go in. Her joints have been unbeleivably sore and stiff again - I think her system is generally run down and it is using all the reserves available to fight off this flu. She seems to be feeling a bit better this evening.
Adrian (in an attempt to manage some stress) managed to badly injure the tendons in his ankle while playing a friendly game of squash last night (!!!) and has also been in a lot of pain with that.
Adrian's dad has also been going through a very difficult time with his health and has recently suffered some setbacks. Please could we ask you to keep Andy and Hilda (who are such a support to Nikki and her family) in your prayers too as they weather this storm. May they know the comfort of their creator in the chaos that surrounds them, as we have known Him.
Nahum 1:7
"The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him".
Nikki has had another rough week and actually spent last night / early hours of this morning in hospital. The cold she's been battling developed into bronchitis with a high fever over the last few days. Her fever peaked last night and the docs were concerned about possible pneumonia so she had to go in. Her joints have been unbeleivably sore and stiff again - I think her system is generally run down and it is using all the reserves available to fight off this flu. She seems to be feeling a bit better this evening.
Adrian (in an attempt to manage some stress) managed to badly injure the tendons in his ankle while playing a friendly game of squash last night (!!!) and has also been in a lot of pain with that.
Adrian's dad has also been going through a very difficult time with his health and has recently suffered some setbacks. Please could we ask you to keep Andy and Hilda (who are such a support to Nikki and her family) in your prayers too as they weather this storm. May they know the comfort of their creator in the chaos that surrounds them, as we have known Him.
Nahum 1:7
"The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him".
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Hannah's 6 tomorrow!
It's been a few days since my last posting and Nix hasnt been feeling too well. She's been struggling with a migraine headache, battling to sleep and now has a cold with a rough and hoarse throat. Please keep her in prayer and pray that her immune system stays strong and carries her through this bombardment of Chemo.
Tomorrow is Nikki & Adrian's precious Hannah's 6th birthday. She is super-excited as we are going ice skating at Grand West to celebrate. I can still remember the first time I laid eyes on her - being wheeled through the corridor in an incubator and seeing her tiny little face topped with a mop of dark hair (which is now blonde). Her brand new eyes darted around the room from one person to the next. Amazing! She has been a little social butterfly and loved people from the word go (like her mom!) On Saturday, my mom and Nikki took her to Build-a-Bear to choose / make her birthday present. She is so excited about her gorgeous soft brown bear and managed to find the bear a lovely white and silver ice skating outfit so she can join us tomorrow! Yay!
Tomorrow is Nikki & Adrian's precious Hannah's 6th birthday. She is super-excited as we are going ice skating at Grand West to celebrate. I can still remember the first time I laid eyes on her - being wheeled through the corridor in an incubator and seeing her tiny little face topped with a mop of dark hair (which is now blonde). Her brand new eyes darted around the room from one person to the next. Amazing! She has been a little social butterfly and loved people from the word go (like her mom!) On Saturday, my mom and Nikki took her to Build-a-Bear to choose / make her birthday present. She is so excited about her gorgeous soft brown bear and managed to find the bear a lovely white and silver ice skating outfit so she can join us tomorrow! Yay!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
"Hair today, gone tomorrow"
"Hair today, gone tomorrow" - this is Nix's new favourite quote and she managed to use it a few times today (true Nikki wit!).
Because she is losing her hair at a rapid rate now, we called on the services of a beautiful and talented friend, Jackie, who gave Nikki her latest trendy, really-short look. I must say, Nikki has such a lovely profile and really suits short hair in any style. It's good she's got to try a few styles through this process so she will know just what to ask for when her hair grows back again!
Nix seems to have turned a corner today and was feeling much more like herself again. So, after taking the morning off to rest, we spent time with some precious friends this afternoon. It's always good to be around people who encourage and minister life. They are such beautiful gifts!
Jesus said: "Where two or three come together in My name, there I am with them."
Another beautiful gift was born today, baby Ava Bennett, daughter to our friends, Rachelle and Andrew. We cant help but celebrate and thank God for this new little life!
Because she is losing her hair at a rapid rate now, we called on the services of a beautiful and talented friend, Jackie, who gave Nikki her latest trendy, really-short look. I must say, Nikki has such a lovely profile and really suits short hair in any style. It's good she's got to try a few styles through this process so she will know just what to ask for when her hair grows back again!
Nix seems to have turned a corner today and was feeling much more like herself again. So, after taking the morning off to rest, we spent time with some precious friends this afternoon. It's always good to be around people who encourage and minister life. They are such beautiful gifts!
Jesus said: "Where two or three come together in My name, there I am with them."
Another beautiful gift was born today, baby Ava Bennett, daughter to our friends, Rachelle and Andrew. We cant help but celebrate and thank God for this new little life!
Monday, September 28, 2009
Keeping our eyes fastened on Him
Nix has had a tough few days following her last round of Chemo. She has had quite a bit of pain (which is to be expected with the treatment) and the thing she battles with most as the drugs work their way out of her system is the feeling of being disconnected emotionally, spiritually and physically. She is just not like herself. She is also losing her hair now at quite a rate so that can be quite distressing too. Despite all of this, she remains strong and unwavering in her faith (God's promises are as true in the valley as they are on the mountain top).
Please keep both Adrian and Nikki in your prayers as continually fighting this and living with the symptoms is an exhausting process and they need and greatly value the support and prayers of their friends. Adrian is carrying a heavy load and is stretched to capacity, running his business, family, spiritual and emotional life at this level of intensity right now. I feel he needs us to come alongside him to hold his hands up at this time.
A quote from Smith Wigglesworth's book on Healing:
"Oh beloved, may God help us to get our eyes off the conditions and symptoms, no matter how bad they may be, and get them fastened on Him. Then we will be able to pray "the prayer of faith" (James 5:15).
James 5:15 - "And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up."
Please keep both Adrian and Nikki in your prayers as continually fighting this and living with the symptoms is an exhausting process and they need and greatly value the support and prayers of their friends. Adrian is carrying a heavy load and is stretched to capacity, running his business, family, spiritual and emotional life at this level of intensity right now. I feel he needs us to come alongside him to hold his hands up at this time.
A quote from Smith Wigglesworth's book on Healing:
"Oh beloved, may God help us to get our eyes off the conditions and symptoms, no matter how bad they may be, and get them fastened on Him. Then we will be able to pray "the prayer of faith" (James 5:15).
James 5:15 - "And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up."
Friday, September 25, 2009
Chemo Round 2
Early this week, Nikki's rheumatologist declared that he was shocked and amazed when he read her blood test results. For the last 18 months, her inflammation markers were above 150 (normal is under 5) and her last test markers were 23!
So, off Nikki went for her second dose of Chemotherapy on Wednesday. All seemed to be going well with the first medication and when they changed the drip and medication, after 4 drops going through, she started to have an allergic reaction - presenting in severe back pain and a rash on her body. The doctor said that this was fairly common with this type of Chemo. They then gave her a hefty dose of antihistamine and she continued to receive the Chemo while in a deep sleep.
When she got home, she climbed into bed and had to be woken by Adrian yesterday at 12.00!!
She seems to be doing well now, please continue to pray that she wont have the awful side effects coming off the steroids this time round.
So, off Nikki went for her second dose of Chemotherapy on Wednesday. All seemed to be going well with the first medication and when they changed the drip and medication, after 4 drops going through, she started to have an allergic reaction - presenting in severe back pain and a rash on her body. The doctor said that this was fairly common with this type of Chemo. They then gave her a hefty dose of antihistamine and she continued to receive the Chemo while in a deep sleep.
When she got home, she climbed into bed and had to be woken by Adrian yesterday at 12.00!!
She seems to be doing well now, please continue to pray that she wont have the awful side effects coming off the steroids this time round.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Too Busy to be Down
We have had a whirlwind weekend packed full of activities and Nikki has kept up with everything! She surprised me this morning when she and Tania arrived on my doorstep - having decided to make the most of the beautiful weather, they took a slow walk up from their road to mine (yay! like the "old days" - and lots more of that to come in the near future :-)).
Wednesday is Nikki's next appointment with Chemo so please could I ask you to pray with us that her white blood cell count is high enough when she does her blood tests tomorrow so that she can proceed with Chemo according to the schedule. Please also pray that she will not experience any nasty side effects from the Chemo or the steroids this time round.
Thank you once again for sharing our burden with us and carrying us as we walk along this road. I read some verses of an old song this morning that reminded me of my (our) role in this journey, I will share them with you here:
Won't you let me be your servant,
let me be as Christ to you,
pray that I may have the grace,
to let you be my servant too.
I will weep when you are weeping,
when you laugh, I'll laugh with you.
I will share your joy and sorrow
'til we've seen this journey through.
Wednesday is Nikki's next appointment with Chemo so please could I ask you to pray with us that her white blood cell count is high enough when she does her blood tests tomorrow so that she can proceed with Chemo according to the schedule. Please also pray that she will not experience any nasty side effects from the Chemo or the steroids this time round.
Thank you once again for sharing our burden with us and carrying us as we walk along this road. I read some verses of an old song this morning that reminded me of my (our) role in this journey, I will share them with you here:
Won't you let me be your servant,
let me be as Christ to you,
pray that I may have the grace,
to let you be my servant too.
I will weep when you are weeping,
when you laugh, I'll laugh with you.
I will share your joy and sorrow
'til we've seen this journey through.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Rollercoaster
The last few days have been quite trying for Nix. She has been battling with migraine headaches and woke up on Thursday morning with swollen, painful joints again. Oh what a rollercoaster this is! I took her through for her consultation with her rheumatologist today - no major breakthoughs there. They are still unsure whether the cancer is the underlying cause for the arthritis or whether Nikki is running 2 different and unrelated problems here. On one hand, the white blood cell count is low from the Chemo and on the other hand the immune system is still way out of control (overstimulated) causing the severe inflammation / arthritis. So where does that put you? Do you supress it or stimulate it? Only the Lord knows the answer to that and that is why our faith remains firmly in Him and nowhere else...
Psalm 103: 1 - 5
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits,
who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Psalm 103: 1 - 5
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits,
who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Inspriration
I loved this and had to share it with all of you: (thank you Donne!)
Cancer is so limited.
It cannot cripple love.
It cannot shatter hope.
It cannot corrode faith.
It cannot eat away peace.
It cannot destroy confidence.
It cannot kill friendship.
It cannot shut out memories.
It cannot silence courage.
I cannot invade the soul.
It cannot reduce eternal life.
It cannot quench the Spirit.
It cannot lessen the power of the resurrection.
Anonymous
(Found in the book "Stick a Geranium in your Cranium" by Barbara Johnson)
Cancer is so limited.
It cannot cripple love.
It cannot shatter hope.
It cannot corrode faith.
It cannot eat away peace.
It cannot destroy confidence.
It cannot kill friendship.
It cannot shut out memories.
It cannot silence courage.
I cannot invade the soul.
It cannot reduce eternal life.
It cannot quench the Spirit.
It cannot lessen the power of the resurrection.
Anonymous
(Found in the book "Stick a Geranium in your Cranium" by Barbara Johnson)
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
True Beauty
After 12 days of tummy upsets and wondering whether this was due to chemo or diet, it seems that chemo is most likely the cause. Initally Nikki's oncologist wasnt too worried about it but after 12 days, it has become a far more serious issue. She has been suffering with a migraine headache at the same time, probably due to the fact that she is dehydrated from the tummy problems. Nikki's white blood cell count was also low due to the chemo which is another reason for the tummy issues. So she went to the hospital today and they gave her some shots to counter the neutropenia (low white blood cell count). She will have to self inject over the next few days to boost her count.
Please could we ask you to pray that these tummy upset symptoms subside and that her blood count increases and specifically pray into these areas when she goes for her next round of chemo on 23 September.
On a lighter note, this evening I read the bible story about beautiful Queen Esther to my children and in order to bring it back to their level, I asked them whether they knew someone who was exceptionally beautiful - I thought they would say "mommy":-) - but Megan said, "I know someone really beautiful mommy, Aunty Nix!" Well, I couldn't agree more!
Proverbs 3:1 - 8
My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.
Please could we ask you to pray that these tummy upset symptoms subside and that her blood count increases and specifically pray into these areas when she goes for her next round of chemo on 23 September.
On a lighter note, this evening I read the bible story about beautiful Queen Esther to my children and in order to bring it back to their level, I asked them whether they knew someone who was exceptionally beautiful - I thought they would say "mommy":-) - but Megan said, "I know someone really beautiful mommy, Aunty Nix!" Well, I couldn't agree more!
Proverbs 3:1 - 8
My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Overwhelmed by His love
We have been overwhelmed by the love and support of our many friends, family and church family over the last few weeks. God is demonstrating His love to us through His servants. Thank you so much to all of you for being His hands and feet at this time. Thank you for your prayers, amazing dinners, baby sitting, lifts, flowers, sms'es, emails, cards, gifts, dvd's, books, CD's etc...etc... How can we thank you? We are literally being carried by your prayers and your love. Here are 2 beautiful and inspiring poems written by a precious friend of our parents, Gavin Durr, for our lovely Nix:
I HEARD A CRY FOR HELP – FOR THEE
(Written by God’s grace – by Gavin Durr, 23.08.2009)
I heard a cry for help, for thee,
A cry to Thee, for one so ill in a friend’s family,
A cry so desperate, Lord to Thee,
A cry for healing, a mournful plea.
We pray Lord Jesus, show Thy might,
God’s power is sufficient to heal their plight,
We pray Lord Jesus, show Thy glory,
Thou alone Dear Lord are worthy.
We pray Thou wilt cast their mountain of sickness into the sea,
We have faith, don’t doubt, that this will be,
Such a miraculous healing testimony,
So all may know, Thy healing see,
And that the healing only came from Thee
Thank you Jesus for the healing released, that will come, set her body free.
Lord we will tell all of this healing testimony,
Thou art worthy, worthy, worthy,
Tell all, as they prayed, you heard their cry,
Thou art not man, that thou shouldst lie,
We believe Lord, we believe,
By thy grace, she will be healed,
We rejoice Lord, for we know,
You will heal, for you dear Lord, do love her so.
PROCLAMATION – PRAYER POEM
GOD’S POWER IS ALWAYS SUFFICIENT FOR ME
(Written by God’s grace – by Gavin Durr, 31.08.2009)
God’s power is always sufficient for me,
No matter whatever my problem may be,
Every plan that I make,
Every step that I may take,
Thy power, Dear Lord, is sufficient for me.
And I commit my plans this day to Thee,
In Jesus name they now will succeed,
I know, I know, my Lord will take heed.
Step for step, Lord, you plan my way,
Thy will is Thy will, Thou will have Thy say,
Always, Always, help comes in time,
For Thy timing is perfect, so sublime.
Sufficient, Sufficient, is God’s power for me,
I know this, I know this, dear Lord, I believe.
I HEARD A CRY FOR HELP – FOR THEE
(Written by God’s grace – by Gavin Durr, 23.08.2009)
I heard a cry for help, for thee,
A cry to Thee, for one so ill in a friend’s family,
A cry so desperate, Lord to Thee,
A cry for healing, a mournful plea.
We pray Lord Jesus, show Thy might,
God’s power is sufficient to heal their plight,
We pray Lord Jesus, show Thy glory,
Thou alone Dear Lord are worthy.
We pray Thou wilt cast their mountain of sickness into the sea,
We have faith, don’t doubt, that this will be,
Such a miraculous healing testimony,
So all may know, Thy healing see,
And that the healing only came from Thee
Thank you Jesus for the healing released, that will come, set her body free.
Lord we will tell all of this healing testimony,
Thou art worthy, worthy, worthy,
Tell all, as they prayed, you heard their cry,
Thou art not man, that thou shouldst lie,
We believe Lord, we believe,
By thy grace, she will be healed,
We rejoice Lord, for we know,
You will heal, for you dear Lord, do love her so.
PROCLAMATION – PRAYER POEM
GOD’S POWER IS ALWAYS SUFFICIENT FOR ME
(Written by God’s grace – by Gavin Durr, 31.08.2009)
God’s power is always sufficient for me,
No matter whatever my problem may be,
Every plan that I make,
Every step that I may take,
Thy power, Dear Lord, is sufficient for me.
And I commit my plans this day to Thee,
In Jesus name they now will succeed,
I know, I know, my Lord will take heed.
Step for step, Lord, you plan my way,
Thy will is Thy will, Thou will have Thy say,
Always, Always, help comes in time,
For Thy timing is perfect, so sublime.
Sufficient, Sufficient, is God’s power for me,
I know this, I know this, dear Lord, I believe.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Living in the moment
Nikki has been feeling so well the last 2 days. We fetched the kids from school early yesterday as it was such a lovely day and went to ride camels at Imhoff's (!), which is something Hannah has wanted to do since she was 2. For as long as I have known Nikki (which is my whole life minus the first 13 months), she has been obessed with riding any animal she possibly can. A giraffe is still on the "to do list". Maybe Hannah has inherited this strange interest from her mom. Riding camels brought back some fun (and more scary!) memories of backpacking through Egypt in 1995 where Nikki actually succeeded in getting her camel to canter through the desert on our tour of the Great Pyramids. I dont think the guides had encountered anything like her before or since. Today Nikki has joined Daniel and the "Tiger's" class on their outing to see Little Red Riding Hood.
This is actually so amazing as she is on none of her pain / inflammation / arthritis meds any more and even when she was medicated to the max for the last 18 months, she didnt have the energy or strength to do these things. We thank God for every moment and His grace on her at this time. We're enjoying living in the moment...
This is actually so amazing as she is on none of her pain / inflammation / arthritis meds any more and even when she was medicated to the max for the last 18 months, she didnt have the energy or strength to do these things. We thank God for every moment and His grace on her at this time. We're enjoying living in the moment...
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Doing so much better
Thank you for all the prayers today! I'm happy to report that sweet Nix is feeling so much stronger tonight and is grateful to be on the other side of this. I think she will stay off the steroids next time she goes for Chemo - they give them to you to keep the nausea at bay but she reckons the side effects of the steriods are far worse.
Asking for Wisdom
Nix seemed to handle her first dose of Chemo last Thursday like a real soldier. She was doing so well but over the course of the weekend, developed severe tummy cramps. Her doctor says this is not due to the Chemo. She has been following quite a severe diet at the same time, so we are looking at that or a possible bug. So please pray for her in this area. The cramps have kept her up all night so she hasn't had much sleep. Please also pray for wisdom regarding her diet in this time. There is so much "good" advice out there but it is like all of our plans and efforts outside of God have been frustrated. We are trusting God for His wisdom direction in this area.
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
Mark 16:17
"And these signs will accompany those who believe; in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents with their hands and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them, they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover."
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
Mark 16:17
"And these signs will accompany those who believe; in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents with their hands and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them, they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover."
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Problems becoming a blog "follower"?
Many of you have said that you have had trouble commenting on these posts or adding photos If that is the case, you need to become a member / follower of the blog first. Please let me know if you are battling and I will send you something that may help. Just email me on: eve@maxitec.co.za
2 Corinthians 4
I didn't have a chance yesterday to update the blog but this is just to let you all know that Nix was feeling great yesterday morning after Chemo. She was on a bit of a "high" actually which is not uncommon apparently. So she made the most of it!
This verse (and, in fact, the entire chapter) has been a great encouragement to me yesterday and today (thank you Karen!)
2 Corinthians 4:17
"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
This verse (and, in fact, the entire chapter) has been a great encouragement to me yesterday and today (thank you Karen!)
2 Corinthians 4:17
"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
Thursday, September 3, 2009
A Good Report!
It's late now, I haven't had a moment before now to update Nikki's blog for today but I just had to tell you all the good news.
When I arrived at Nikki's home to fetch the kiddies for school, she was up and about and told me that she felt better than she had in a very long time. She was feeling strong and pain-free.
Pops and Queenie (as our mom and dad are fondly known by their grandchildren) took her through to Constantiaberg this morning for her first round of chemo. When I got there later in the day, she was chatting happily with the other patients receiving chemo and she was like a ray of sunshine in a rather gloomy ward.
On our way home, she surprised us both when she slipped her engagement ring off her finger (it has been stuck on her finger for a number of months now due to the inflammation in her joints). I truly beleive that this is an answer to prayer. We have been praying that as she comes off all her arthritis medication, she gets stonger and not weaker and that is exactly what we saw today! This is just the beginning...
When I arrived at Nikki's home to fetch the kiddies for school, she was up and about and told me that she felt better than she had in a very long time. She was feeling strong and pain-free.
Pops and Queenie (as our mom and dad are fondly known by their grandchildren) took her through to Constantiaberg this morning for her first round of chemo. When I got there later in the day, she was chatting happily with the other patients receiving chemo and she was like a ray of sunshine in a rather gloomy ward.
On our way home, she surprised us both when she slipped her engagement ring off her finger (it has been stuck on her finger for a number of months now due to the inflammation in her joints). I truly beleive that this is an answer to prayer. We have been praying that as she comes off all her arthritis medication, she gets stonger and not weaker and that is exactly what we saw today! This is just the beginning...
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
The Beautiful Boyd Family
Two of the photos from the photo shoot on Fish Hoek on Sunday morning - taken by Chan Van Zyl. What a gorgeous family they are!
Thankfully our faith is not in Hospitals!
Yesterday Nix tried Ozone therapy. It's supposed to pump antioxidants (good soldiers) into the system to help fight cancer cells. The doctor couldnt get the Ozone to go into her vein and he said that he had never seen this happen before. Nix said that she has heard that statement alot lately - confirming that she is a truly unique individual!
Nikki was supposed to start Chemo today but the doctor wanted her to run some more blood tests before starting treatment. She spent most of the day there only to hear that they lost her blood tests (what??????? losing faith in the medical system yet?) So she will be back at Constantiaberg first thing tomorrow to repeat the tests before starting the Chemo. She is feeling more positive and peaceful about the Chemo now and hopes that it will help to ease the arthritis a bit too. We are believing that the Chemo will clear up the arthritis completely (since Chemo reduces white blood cells and hers are out of control and could do with reduction) and that she will not feel any adverse effects from the treatment. Please pray and believe for this with us.
Please also pray for supernatural provision in the area of finance (this is an expensive process).
Psalm 40:1 - I waited patiently for the Lord, He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit , out of the mud and mire, he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord.
Nikki was supposed to start Chemo today but the doctor wanted her to run some more blood tests before starting treatment. She spent most of the day there only to hear that they lost her blood tests (what??????? losing faith in the medical system yet?) So she will be back at Constantiaberg first thing tomorrow to repeat the tests before starting the Chemo. She is feeling more positive and peaceful about the Chemo now and hopes that it will help to ease the arthritis a bit too. We are believing that the Chemo will clear up the arthritis completely (since Chemo reduces white blood cells and hers are out of control and could do with reduction) and that she will not feel any adverse effects from the treatment. Please pray and believe for this with us.
Please also pray for supernatural provision in the area of finance (this is an expensive process).
Psalm 40:1 - I waited patiently for the Lord, He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit , out of the mud and mire, he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Springtime, newness, rebirth, hope...
Today is my precious Sydney's 3rd birthday and we are all going to celebrate together as a family later. It is the 1st of Spring and the birth of new things...
It is a beautiful thing to witness the body of Christ (the church) in action at this time. We have been carried by the love, prayer, encouragement, meals, babysitting of our precious church family and we are so blessed to know we aren't walking this road alone!
Nikki had her hair cut short yesterday and it looks so lovely. She really suits short hair and it makes me remember our fun travelling days and living in London in 1995/1996.
I was thinking about Nikki's name recently and it means "victorious overcomer". Isnt that amazing? Let us speak this confession over her as we pray for her.
Psalm 91 has been such an encouragement to me today. When I have a chance later, I will type it out for all to see.
It is a beautiful thing to witness the body of Christ (the church) in action at this time. We have been carried by the love, prayer, encouragement, meals, babysitting of our precious church family and we are so blessed to know we aren't walking this road alone!
Nikki had her hair cut short yesterday and it looks so lovely. She really suits short hair and it makes me remember our fun travelling days and living in London in 1995/1996.
I was thinking about Nikki's name recently and it means "victorious overcomer". Isnt that amazing? Let us speak this confession over her as we pray for her.
Psalm 91 has been such an encouragement to me today. When I have a chance later, I will type it out for all to see.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
A Gift from God
"I am not moved by what I see (or hear) but by what I believe" - Smith Wigglesworth
Today started with a photo shoot on Fish Hoek beach with the Boyd family. For once, I got to be on the "shooting" end of the camera - with many instructions coming at me from "the master" on the other side of the lens! Being a photographer, you tend to take pics of everyone else and not many of yourself. (I was very happy to have sweet Chan there with her camera too, so the pressure wasn't all on me!)
I just have to say that my sister is incredible and the most selfless person I know. Her strength of character (a gift from God) and attitude towards her situation is amazing and she teaches me so much every day just through who she is. I have not once heard her moan or complain about her situation. She has not once gone into "self pity" mode or asked "why me?" Instead when someone asked her that recently, she simply replied "why not me?" She has not once shown anger or remorse towards the doctors who have misdiagnosed her condition for 18 months. Neither has she lost her incredible sense of humour. Yesterday we attended Rachelle's baby shower and she was the centre of the jokes and puns flying around the room, making everyone laugh in typical Nix-style.
Please could we ask you to pray for peace and clarity for Adrian and Nikki concerning the decisions they need to make regarding her treatment over the next few days. That God would guide them with His peace in these things.
Isaiah 41:13 - "For I AM the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, "Do not fear, I will help you. Do not be afraid..."
Psalm 103:3 - "He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases."
Exodus 15:2 "I AM the God who heals you."
Today started with a photo shoot on Fish Hoek beach with the Boyd family. For once, I got to be on the "shooting" end of the camera - with many instructions coming at me from "the master" on the other side of the lens! Being a photographer, you tend to take pics of everyone else and not many of yourself. (I was very happy to have sweet Chan there with her camera too, so the pressure wasn't all on me!)
I just have to say that my sister is incredible and the most selfless person I know. Her strength of character (a gift from God) and attitude towards her situation is amazing and she teaches me so much every day just through who she is. I have not once heard her moan or complain about her situation. She has not once gone into "self pity" mode or asked "why me?" Instead when someone asked her that recently, she simply replied "why not me?" She has not once shown anger or remorse towards the doctors who have misdiagnosed her condition for 18 months. Neither has she lost her incredible sense of humour. Yesterday we attended Rachelle's baby shower and she was the centre of the jokes and puns flying around the room, making everyone laugh in typical Nix-style.
Please could we ask you to pray for peace and clarity for Adrian and Nikki concerning the decisions they need to make regarding her treatment over the next few days. That God would guide them with His peace in these things.
Isaiah 41:13 - "For I AM the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, "Do not fear, I will help you. Do not be afraid..."
Psalm 103:3 - "He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases."
Exodus 15:2 "I AM the God who heals you."
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Ephesians 3!
Ok, so we worked out the reason Nikki was feeling a bit weak (physically) yesterday is because she was so excited to be off all of her meds that she forgot to take her Cortisone!!! To give you an idea, she has been taking a couple of handfuls of tablets every day for the past year-and-a-bit. Some are taken on an empty stomach, some after food, some with food, some with one glass of water, others with 2, still others at midday / morning / night, some before others etc...etc... (I'm sure you can understand her excitement at being rid of this schedule!!!). As she cannot come off the Cortisone in one shot, it is being decreased ever so slightly over a long period of time. The following portion of scripture has been such an encouragement to Pete and I today (thank you Mark and Dee!!), please pray it over Nix and her family with us today...
Ephesians 3:16-21
"I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ and to know this love that surpasses knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now unto him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen"
Ephesians 3:16-21
"I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ and to know this love that surpasses knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now unto him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen"
Friday, August 28, 2009
Latest Update
Over the last week, Nikki has undergone numerous blood tests, bone scans, MRI's and ultrasounds in order to determine the extent of the disease. She met with the oncologist yesterday and the results confimed that the cancer is not limited to the breast tissue but is, in fact, fairly widespread. Nikki & Adrian are taking the next few days to pray and decide on a course of action from here. Please pray for supernatural wisdom, peace and strengh for them at this time.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
How is Nix doing?
"Whose report will you believe? We shall believe the report of the Lord!"
Nikki is incredibly positive and stands firm in her faith in the Lord. She is an inspiration to all of us and continues to encourage us all with her positive attitude and incredible sense of humour.
The doctors have told Nikki she can stop on all of her arthritis medication, so please pray and agree with us that as she comes off the meds, she will feel stronger and stronger every day.
Nikki is incredibly positive and stands firm in her faith in the Lord. She is an inspiration to all of us and continues to encourage us all with her positive attitude and incredible sense of humour.
The doctors have told Nikki she can stop on all of her arthritis medication, so please pray and agree with us that as she comes off the meds, she will feel stronger and stronger every day.
Some Background Info
(Exerpt taken from an email drafted by our dad, Chris Spengler)
Nikki was diagnosed with adult onset Still's disease (a form of Rheumatoid Arthritis) in June 2008. She has been very positive in her faith and outlook and in spite of not seeing a great improvement in her condition since onset, remains convinced that she will one day be healed of this condition.
We have stood by her in prayer and practical support wherever we have been able. Some of you have encouraged us HUGELY in the Lord and I have promised Nikki that I will never give up praying and believing for her for a complete and miraculous healing. Many scriptures have become engraved on our hearts during this time as we have taken up the battle in the Spirit. We have been greatly encouraged by the truth of the Word and have decided that in all circumstances and in all situations, the Word of God (the bible) takes pre-eminence over every statement, report, confession, diagnosis or prognosis from the medical doctors with whom she consults.
Nikki has for some time felt that there must be an underlying cause or root of this affliction. After doing quite a lot of reasearch on her own initiative she came across a possible link between dental root canal treatment and Still's. Her doctors pooh...pooh'ed this thought, not even being prepared to read the articles she had so carefully researched. Having had a problem root canal tooth however, she decided that it may help to have this tooth extracted, which she did. A case of nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Just recently we received some very shocking new on Nikki's health. After repeatedly asking her doctors to check her sore breast, she took herself to her Gynae for a check up and after a lot of MRI's, blood tests and a biopsy they diagnosed breast cancer, not as a lump or tumor, but in the breast tissue. They now suspect that this is what started the Still's Disease in the first place nearly 18 months ago. In the last week, Nikki has undergone numerous blood tests, bone scans, MRI's and ultrasounds in order to determine the extent of the disease. She received the results of the tests today which confirmed that the cancer is not limited to the breast tissue but is, in fact, fairly widespread.
Naturally the whole family are gutted at the news, as we feel that she has gone through enough already. But then one has to be strong and exercise faith in these times.
Louise, Eve, Nikki, Adrian, Peter and I are all standing on God's promises for a complete and miraculous healing. We ask you to agree with us as you take her to the Lord in prayer. Not to mention that she has this sickness, but to pray as we have been taught to pray...the truth of God's Word (the bible). I have never before repeated the scripture in Jeremiah so many times, "I know the plans I have for you, saith the Lord, plans for a hope and a future, plans to prosper you..."and also thank Him continually that "by His stripes we have been healed". There are so many scriptures to support the fact that our God is a good God and that he has our best interests at heart.
Nikki has had some revelational insight into her situation, likening it to a David and Goliath battle. Her daughter Hannah (5) brought this illustration to her when they tried to explain the situation to the children. "So it is like David and Goliath mommy, we are David and we will pray and the c..... is Goliath and it will die because we prayed." Jesus Himself told us to have faith such as these little children. Our armour is prayer and intercession and our enemy is satan...also..."they overcame by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony." Please pray the blood of Jesus over Nikki with us.
We are beleiving for a complete healing that will bring God the glory. Will you please stand with us in this?
Please also pray for strength for all of the family at this time. We so appreciate your prayers. God Bless.
Nikki was diagnosed with adult onset Still's disease (a form of Rheumatoid Arthritis) in June 2008. She has been very positive in her faith and outlook and in spite of not seeing a great improvement in her condition since onset, remains convinced that she will one day be healed of this condition.
We have stood by her in prayer and practical support wherever we have been able. Some of you have encouraged us HUGELY in the Lord and I have promised Nikki that I will never give up praying and believing for her for a complete and miraculous healing. Many scriptures have become engraved on our hearts during this time as we have taken up the battle in the Spirit. We have been greatly encouraged by the truth of the Word and have decided that in all circumstances and in all situations, the Word of God (the bible) takes pre-eminence over every statement, report, confession, diagnosis or prognosis from the medical doctors with whom she consults.
Nikki has for some time felt that there must be an underlying cause or root of this affliction. After doing quite a lot of reasearch on her own initiative she came across a possible link between dental root canal treatment and Still's. Her doctors pooh...pooh'ed this thought, not even being prepared to read the articles she had so carefully researched. Having had a problem root canal tooth however, she decided that it may help to have this tooth extracted, which she did. A case of nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Just recently we received some very shocking new on Nikki's health. After repeatedly asking her doctors to check her sore breast, she took herself to her Gynae for a check up and after a lot of MRI's, blood tests and a biopsy they diagnosed breast cancer, not as a lump or tumor, but in the breast tissue. They now suspect that this is what started the Still's Disease in the first place nearly 18 months ago. In the last week, Nikki has undergone numerous blood tests, bone scans, MRI's and ultrasounds in order to determine the extent of the disease. She received the results of the tests today which confirmed that the cancer is not limited to the breast tissue but is, in fact, fairly widespread.
Naturally the whole family are gutted at the news, as we feel that she has gone through enough already. But then one has to be strong and exercise faith in these times.
Louise, Eve, Nikki, Adrian, Peter and I are all standing on God's promises for a complete and miraculous healing. We ask you to agree with us as you take her to the Lord in prayer. Not to mention that she has this sickness, but to pray as we have been taught to pray...the truth of God's Word (the bible). I have never before repeated the scripture in Jeremiah so many times, "I know the plans I have for you, saith the Lord, plans for a hope and a future, plans to prosper you..."and also thank Him continually that "by His stripes we have been healed". There are so many scriptures to support the fact that our God is a good God and that he has our best interests at heart.
Nikki has had some revelational insight into her situation, likening it to a David and Goliath battle. Her daughter Hannah (5) brought this illustration to her when they tried to explain the situation to the children. "So it is like David and Goliath mommy, we are David and we will pray and the c..... is Goliath and it will die because we prayed." Jesus Himself told us to have faith such as these little children. Our armour is prayer and intercession and our enemy is satan...also..."they overcame by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony." Please pray the blood of Jesus over Nikki with us.
We are beleiving for a complete healing that will bring God the glory. Will you please stand with us in this?
Please also pray for strength for all of the family at this time. We so appreciate your prayers. God Bless.
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