Dear All,

I was able to get home early enough this evening to read Emma and Joshua (Samuel was in the room but more interested in playing with Emma’s doll house) an interesting story. It was about Mrs Beatrice Beaver and a wolf (J.B Wolf, robber baron extraordinaire no less) and a weasel (weasels always are painted in a bad light) who enters possession of Mrs Beavers’ house (unjustly, I might add). Mrs Beaver (a widow) approaches Judge Kensington (an Elk) and after some interesting antics to get his attention, succeeds in the Judge saying he will do anything she wants, provided she leaves him alone (the antics of Mrs Beaver certainly brought giggles to Emma and Joshua as they listened). Mrs Beaver, with the Elks assistance, keeps her house and the Judge manages to keep his sanity, while the wolf in some rage chases the weasel away- the two villains never to bother the lovely Mrs Beaver again. You may ask why am I recounting this story?

Firstly, reading to the children is a delight and reflective of real values. Our journey with cancer has highlighted and continues to highlight the need to cherish values, particularly centred on relationships.

Secondly, the story is linked to persistence- and we need this with prayer.

Wendy had a full set of bone and cat scans today. The results showed that the cancer has neither increased nor decreased. I still pray for the miracle, and, like Mrs Beaver, I guess I am asking those praying to keep “bugging”- probably a wrong word- maybe “persist” in asking Him to bring about the miracle. We have come so far. The current state of Wendy is wonderful, and if you had never met Wendy until now, you would see nothing out of order with how she acts, talks and smiles. However, our family would like more. Remission is one thing, and we are grateful, but full healing is our objective, and we believe this is possible through prayer.

At work on Thursdays we have a luncheon attended by 60 to 70 volunteers. This luncheon has existed for many, many years. The lunch is supported by the Woman’s Auxiliary, a dedicated group of volunteer ladies who are simply marvellous. The ladies wear blue dresses, and are affectionately known as “Blue Bells”. Today, one of the Blue Bells told me- “Wendy is still on our churches prayer list- she has not been forgotten”.

I was very touched by what she said. Thanks to so many. I am aware that Wendy is still on so many prayer lists, and her needs have not been forgotten.

And what are some specifics? That the bone hardener is highly effective; that Wendy is able to wean off the pain management drugs (to zero); that she is able to reduce her dependency on dexamethasone; that Alison J. continues to enjoy the great relationship she has with both Wendy and the children; that Wendy is able to gain further strength and attend more social outings; and off course the miracle- that Wendy is fully restored to health, without any sign of cancer. We have been given a great privilege in that our prayers do count.

Cheers,

Graham for Wendy, Emma, Joshua and Samuel