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Update - 20 January 2004
Dear All,
Samuel has a new task in life. It is called harassing his older brother by throwing things into the tadpole aquarium (with a slow leak curtesy of destructor man's previous exploits) - and seeing Joshua react in a frustrated, "Samuel, don't do that!" exacerbated sort of way. Wendy insists on having the tadpole condominium including a lovely water slime view (from the upper levels of the most prestigious rock within the ventilated tank living resort) outside the house- much to Emma and Joshua's distaste as they want the eventual frogs to be cohabitants with them in their bedrooms! The children have taken to Jacque, deciding to help her unpack on her arrival (the assistance was accepted- although the value-add may have been on the low side). I hope Jacque realises and maintains her sense of humour as part of the children's agenda is to share their prized frogs and put a few in her bedroom!
Wendy is tired. She saw Dr Josie R. yesterday, and her Xeloda has been dropped from 4 tablets twice a day to 3 tablets twice a day (14 days on, 7 days off), recommencing from this morning. Wendy is not looking forward to the side effects that she is expecting even at the lower dosage. We have booked in to see Dr Raymond C., neurosurgeon, at 11.15 am Tuesday 10 Feb 2004. Appropriate prayers for guidance would be appreciated for both the neurosurgeon and for Dr Bob S., who will assess his contribution using radio stereotactic surgery after detailed MRI scans on Monday 2 February 2004. Wendy does not like the thought of neurosurgery again- and I do not blame her. Provided the Xeloda works as hoped, and is able to be consistently applied, the resulting conversion of the Xeloda into 5-fluorouracil, also known as 5-FU, may have the necessary qualities to cross the blood brain barrier. This is potentially good news although it will not cure, only manage. The Xeloda has had insufficient time to impact on any brain tumour growth. It may have no effect.
I did not intend to send an e mail this early, however, response to the last e-mail has been uplifting, and Wendy and I want to say thankyou for not giving up on us. The road is long, the journey of significant endurance, and we have needed every drop of the sustaining prayer juice given for our circumstances. Prayers reflect other things, like faith. Faith, not because of necessity but rather from wanting to do things to make a difference, gives rise to action. We have seen much practical support as well as lively prayers. One lady at the Turramurra Uniting Church who recently lost her husband of many years has cooked up a storm, and is just one representative of an army of chefs; transporters; carers; gardener/ lawn experts, and shoppers. Our freezer over-floweth! Others have visited, with the occasional visitor simply taking up the broom and providing help, then and there.
Thanks for the many rare spiritual treasures that continue to glitter; treasures that before our crisis did not exist, treasures made, nay, created, by many in prayer to the Father, through the Son, with the wind and tongues of the Spirit's sapphire fire touching and beneficially changing lives. The treasures we hold so precious accumulate, as a fragrant offering to our Father. And we are lucky enough to occasionally glimpse into the chest that holds such beauty:
"I started typing and kept deleting because my words just seemed so redundant. My first response to your news was "NO! NO! NO!" and then "how much longer will God allow you to keep suffering like this?!" - Then I realised how much your lives and story has touched people's lives here and all around the world. How medical breakthroughs have been won for so many others because of your struggle. How your faith keeps inspiring so many of us. My cousin gave me a bookmark many years ago - about God's tapestry and how he weaves a beautiful design but we only see the underside of it while He's working on it...I don't think I could ever fathom what God's plan is for you both. I can only guess it must be incredibly wonderful because I keep catching glimpses of eternity in it. Thank you for your reminder about time. Sharing tears and prayers with you both. And praying for God's perfect love to cast out all fear. Love, Eunice."
One of the nurses who looked after Wendy during her recent stay at the San (Adventist Hospital, Wahroonga) writes: "I just wanted to thank you both for the updates on how Wendy is going. I pray for the best for both of you, and that God continues to bless in all circumstances. I also wanted to thank you because I had an amazing experience caring for Wendy on level twelve last Friday. I can't begin to tell you how busy, frustrating and upsetting that shift was, but every time I went into Wendy's room it was like entering a "peace zone". I literally couldn't take any of my stress or concerns past the door to Wendy's room. It was as if my mind went blank and every part of me took a deep breath and relaxed...It wasn't until after the shift that I realised the effect it had on me. ... I know that I was sustained and encouraged by the presence of God around you both. I have never felt more encouraged or at rest at work ever, and I think that shift was just about the busiest and most challenging I have ever worked...Thankyou for ministering to me. I will always carry a profound feeling of joy when I think of you, and of gratefulness that I could come across your path...Thankyou so much for the spiritual blessing and inspiration you are. I look forward to hearing how you are going, and I praise God for all He has done in you because I know that when I was with you I was surrounded by the presence of God...Take care, and I'll be praying for you!"
"Thanks for your note. The array of choices is very daunting: none of them appear to be palatable. I've been praying for wisdom for Dr R. for some time - he continues to need Godly inspiration, especially given the bewildering array of recommendations before him. Will continue to uphold him, you and Wendy in prayer (the poor thing - I don't know how she can possibly face another round of brain treatment). Thinking of you guys lots. God bless, in Jesus healing name, Al"
"Again my heart goes out in prayer to you all - and always with the belief that God will come through and you will experience a miracle. You know I continue to pray and light candles for Wendy, and that you are all in our thoughts and hearts and I know that somehow you will find the strength to face this next hurdle. I pray for Wendy, for strength to endure and courage to face whatever the next few weeks bring. I wish I could hug her and make it all go away. Your para on the children made me laugh and your thoughts on 'time' made me cry. I copied them to friends because what you say is so true and puts life in perspective. We spend so much time wishing for the next day, the next week, the next year, that we forget how lucky we are to be in the present. Thank you for reminding me. Our love to you all and hugs for the children. Keep your faith; this terrible journey is not in vain. Wendy will triumph. Angela and George."
"What can one say? I am so sorry to hear of further trauma & pray that a good result transpires & am very grateful that we saw you all when Wendy was feeling so much better. The power of prayer is remarkable so rest assured there is plenty of that happening around the World. I was particularly impressed with your thoughts on time--oh so true we do not grasp it & embrace it or use it advantageously. It gave me food for thought. With our love Jane."
"I took the boys to see "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" yesterday. The portrayal of Aslan was faithful to how C.S Lewis wrote him in the book - not tame, (as Susan says, "Is he safe?", to which Mr Beaver replies something like "Of course not, but he is good.") but trustworthy and good. Full of compassion, able to feel great sadness, yet unbelievably strong; unyielding against the forces of the White Witch, yet willing to be sacrificed in order to save the life of one boy. The picture of Jesus was so powerful. He is greater than all the forces of evil, yet in that greatness he loves us so much more than we could ever understand. We're praying (and yes, I have had some very disrupted nights this week), knowing that the God we pray to is mighty, yet overflowing in love for each of us. Love, Anne C."
And from Mike and Bev in rural NSW, "We send you this in the New Year, one that looked a long way off at the beginning of all your turmoil, and yet here we are after many ups and downs and facing fearful hurdles still. Your faith and courage is a constant inspiration to us as we continually have you all in our thoughts. This reaches you among the hundreds of other emails you must receive each day and that alone amazes us that you are able to simply process them all. You remind us that it is all too easy to get wrapped up in issues like (bunk beds), farm work, machinery, drought, and now floods!! And lose sight of what is really important. Things like time to spend with friends and family and times of enjoyment with the kids. (Floods can be good - quality time with the boys, albeit until cabin fever sets in!) The thrill of seeing their eyes beaming out from layers of mud, and marvelling how many times in a row Joe can pop up 6's in trouble and win at snakes and ladders. We fervently wish that you only had ladders to climb and not snakes to go down. We hope that the loving support of friends and family and expertise of the medical people surrounding you provides some ladders... Your constantly inspiring emails and ability to find the good in all situations are an inspiration to us all. Even in such small ways as prompting us to squeeze an extra 2 days away from the farm on our holiday to make more time away together and with the boys. For your bundles of joy we send these messages: For Emma: Shopping is OK (in moderation), just do it graciously. For Joshua: Nothing wrong with snags - especially with tomato sauce. For Samuel: (alias destructor-man) being normal is so hard! But very entertaining especially now we are past this stage."
I came across a prayer by Peter Marshall. After modernisation and adaptation to our circumstances, it may be a prayer people would repeat in heart for intercession on Wendy's behalf? Appropriate words handed down through a corridor decades in age, by a man who made a difference. Prayers by Peter Marshall inspired a nation, and this Scottish minister from humble background made many notable and strategic prayers before the United States Senate, where he was Chaplain.
"There are loved ones today, O Lord, for whom we pray, and the prayers are even now being whispered before the throne of grace. We ask for your help without any hesitation, knowing that you are disposed to give even before we ask.
We thank you for askings that have been received, and prayers that have been answered. We are so glad that by Your grace and mercy broken bones have been mended, weak and struggling hearts have been made strong. We thank You that pain has been removed; the sick have so often been made well.
Hear us as we pray now for some who need stronger hearts, and we think of Wendy. You are the great Doctor who may do it. Will You strengthen the hearts of those we name even now? For Wendy?
We pray for Wendy who is sick with cancer. Primary cancer of the breast, with extensive secondaries of the liver, the brain, the skull, the ribs, the spine, the sternum, the lymph nodes, the pelvis, and elsewhere. While human skill can do this and that, and say wait and rest, we know that Your skill alone can heal even that which is impossible. Hear us as we pray for that.
And we think of some whose eyes need to see, Lord Jesus, You have not forgotten how to do that! Hear us as we pray for these miracles today.
And now grant to us that spiritual perception and faith that, having asked, reaches out to accept Your good gifts. Help us to keep our eyes on You, and not on symptoms. And grant, in Your own time and Your own way, a complete return to that health and strength which is Your perfect will for Your children. In Your strength, who is the same, yesterday, today and forever, we pray. Amen."
Catherine Marshall writes in her book "The Prayers of Peter Marshall", (1955, p.1) "The prayer period was approached in a leisurely fashion with an unmistakable sincerity and an undercurrent of anticipation approximating excitement. 'The most precious moments of our morning worship are the moments we spend with the Risen Lord,' Peter would say before he began to pray. 'We cannot see His form, but we can feel His presence. He knows all about you- your hidden perplexity, your secret shame. He waits by appointment, anxious to speak to you reassuringly, comfortingly, forgivingly. You may tell Him your needs now and in your own way.' Then a period of silence would follow. Peter knew Christ was there, and he was somehow able to transmit that knowledge to the waiting congregation bowed before him. That was why hungry-hearted people would make almost any sacrifice to get to Westminster Church. It was also obvious that Peter Marshall confidently expected things to happen as he prayed. Burdened consciences were going to be forgiven; burdened minds were going to be unloaded of worry and tension. The sick were going to be healed. The lonely were going to find a Friend. The aged were going to receive the benediction of a strange new peace. It was this expectation of answered prayer that accounted for the undercurrent of excitement. And it worked! It was because many individuals in those congregations actually did have experiences of specific needs met that people came to regard these prayers as rare spiritual treasure."
Like Peter Marshall always did, we expect our prayers to be answered, and the gifts of healing are certainly listed among things God may give. Gifts in their place, as such gifts point to the forgiveness of sin and eternal life in the first instance- always directing to the Cross.
We trust in the God of "Enough"- both in the sense of setting time limits when enough is enough, and also that He is the sustaining God of Enough- not so much as sometimes taking fearful circumstances away, but by giving things, by adding something from Him that remains very special and allows us to overcome in His strength, by His exertions.
Cheers, again thankyou- thanks for sticking with us,
Graham for Wendy, Emma, Joshua and Samuel
Update - 15 January 2004
Dear All,
We have it at all levels. Samuel the 2 year old, "me, me, me!" and "I don't like that" as well as "that is mine!"; 4 years and already Mr Sensitive-man, Joshua; Emma- elements of selfishness showing through her 6 year old frame- when Wendy goes to hospital she wants to go shopping! I hope Emma curbs the shopping urge before she gets much older. Wendy has a quest to teach Emma graciousness! We have organised bunk beds for the boys to arrive next week. Naturally, I thought bunk beds would come one on top of the other. Wendy had other ideas- assuring me that Samuel would climb to the dizzy heights of second level and make flying leaps that we would regret. As such, our bunks have capacity to become bunks- sort of fitted for but not with- until a more mature time after the terrible two's become a distant past- say in Samuel's old age of three and one half years! Joshua was excited to hear he was getting bunk beds, and then disappointed they will not stand one on the other for at least another year! Various challenges for Jacque come Sunday afternoon, when she joins the home team.
Our meeting with Dr Bob S. took place this evening. Wendy has four new brain tumours. As she said to Dr Bob S., they are breeding like rabbits. Dr Bob S., for "logistical" reasons, will only deal with a maximum of three at any time, and essentially told us he would deal with two. We will be having an up to date MRI in accordance with his specifications on the first Monday of February. Concurrently, we will be booking in to see the neurosurgeon again, Dr Raymond C. Wendy was very upset on the way home tonight- and fear has an element to play in such upsets. As the lead up to the meeting tonight progressed, uncertainty gave rise to potential things that may have proved unpleasant. Unfortunately, while we appear to have a path forward, we also know what is involved and we do not look forward to the unpleasant experiences. Nevertheless, we continue, and are grateful to the many supporting our journey. Thankyou that so many have sponsored prayers of colour, as per my last e-mail request.
Despite our downcast demur for the last few hours, we are already recovering our strength and know that such prayers shimmer in wonderful hope; prayers that sing to us, as we are again soberly fearful of what the future holds, knowing that perfect love casts out all fear- and taking strength in such Love.
Prayer of Colour. Roslyn and her daughter Sarah write, after a sojourn to South Africa: "so pleased you are home Wendy and delighted that you have found a suitable helper. My prayers are for a good report on Thursday..."
Prayer of Colour. Sue B. encourages us with "I don't want to keep adding to your list of emails, but obviously have been praying hard since last week's two. Also, Beth's asked me to lead prayer at Church Council tonight...My quiet time this morning included 2 Thessalonians 3:5 "May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance/ steadfastness."
Prayer of Colour. "Hi Wendy, I don't know how you felt at about 3:40 am this morning, but I was praying for you. Adam woke up and wouldn't settle despite a bottle and some Panadol, so I took him into the lounge room in the dark and calmed him down. His little body was just racked with sobs from being so upset, and it reminded me so much of how God holds you in the middle of the night, calming your sobs, caressing you, and telling you how much He loves you before He returns you back to your bed for a beautiful restful sleep. I will continue to pray for you in my "usual" waking hours, however, if comfort to my children is required in the "unusual" hours, then I will also pray for you then. Eunice, Matthew, Adam and I love you, Graham and your family very much. Praise God that you are getting stronger again!!!!!! Lots of love (and heaps of Prayers). Trevor. P.S. When I pray with Matthew before bed, you are and always will be a special inclusion in his prayers with me.
Prayer of Colour. Another Sue B reminds us: "...I hope the kids love Jacque and she loves them also! They certainly need a lot of love at the moment also so don't forget that they also need prayers for coping with a very sick Mummy (maybe you can remind people in your next email). Perhaps some prayers for you too!..."
Prayer of Colour. "Great to hear Wendy is home in her own environment. There is nothing like the comforts of home. It will be lovely to get your new helper, the children will teach her a thing or two. It's amazing how out of prayer we can see the answers to many things more clearly. I am always in awe of your religious knowledge and always feel ignorant when I read your emails quoting the scripture. My faith extends to the knowledge that I want God to live in me and I want to live a Christian life, which projects love and understand to my fellow man. It's amazing how many people say they are Christians but yet their dealings with other humans send a different message. Our love to each and every one of you. Jacque (not your new Jacque...)"
Prayer of Colour. "Thankyou for yet another e-mail of inspiration and hope, ( ".. and hope does not disappoint us.") We stand in agreement with you that, " through prayer all remains achievable." Yesterday our prayer took the form of Psalm 91:11 "He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. They will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone." At the Service we attended on Sunday there was an opportunity for those wanting individual prayer for healing. Peter encouraged me to go forward on Wendy's behalf, a la the centurion for his daughter. Praise God! He does not stop working. Bless you both. Pat E."
Prayer of Colour. "...We continue to pray as a family and individually for Wendy's complete recovery and for you all as a family. You are in our thoughts and prayers morning and night. Remember that with prayer all things are possible and that we love you all very much... Remember that you are never alone - Jesus carries you all and that prayer encircles and raises you all up. God hears this..." Jean, John and Henry W.
Prayers of Colour continue to arise throughout the world. The prayers of colours surround us while the cancer of Wendy's body beckons again to be considered as the priority. We are grateful that Nicole H., who has spent many long hours sitting with Wendy during chemo, and in prayer, will be taking Wendy to the oncologist on Monday where Josie R. will discuss with Wendy the Xeloda's potency and tolerance levels. Assuming a luke-warm way forward re: Xeloda and Wendy's meeting with Josie, it is unlikely I will send a further e-mail for a while.
Time. One of the biggest mistakes we all have is that we have "time". Everything focuses on a future, age retirement being seen as the best years of our lives. Time to play golf, time to travel, time to do everything we think we cannot do now- time to see children grow. We will have time later- while we forget to live in the meantime. Wendy's illness reminds us of priorities, of the true meaning of time as well as the rankings of things in our lives. Sometimes we rank something number one, but find it comes lower as we get the less important things out of the way first! We have again had the fortune of having a short-term strategy to combat the brain cancer- although we do not relish dealing with four more brain tumours (I am still getting over the news)! Again, we have been ranked to receive the benefits of radio stereo tactic surgery (although Dr S. said they are fully booked for 2 months- cancellations are always possible and hence we could get into such a timeframe), and in due course we will find out if neurosurgery is viable. Despite knowing that what ahead is so terrible and indeed, very painful, and we still have some tears, we are nevertheless grateful.
Cancer is a "real life" circumstance that causes focus on bigger issues than bunk beds (although they do have a place)- the real issues concerning life- life itself. If it is one thing we have been reminded of again, this evening, it is that life should be lived. It is too short, yet we continue to think we have a lot more time than we really have.
Requesting that God reinforces and enforces His positions against cancer and its minions and allies by His vanguard of special and elite force angels... surrounding, protecting, and when directed by the Trinity of God, attacking this horrible consumer and curse against life. Requesting that fear is cast down, for it remains too close, and too real, and it has great capacity to impair our enjoyment of the life we all have. Requesting Perfect Love.
Cheers, requesting miracle, requesting prayer...requesting, again,
Graham for Wendy, Emma, Joshua and Samuel
Update - 13 January 2004
Dear All,
Wendy has rested between most welcome visitors! She received much needed nourishment via a tube while her stomach took time out to rebuild strength. She came home this morning. We will miss the great views from Level 12 (previously we have only been on the lower levels at the San) although much of Wendy's stay was obscured by bush fire smoke. Wendy has been medicated on buscopan that brought effective relief from her stomach cramp discomfort. Buscopan works by relaxing stomach muscle spasms. Unfortunately, Wendy was experiencing explosive spasm every time she tried taking a tablet or even a sniff of food. Wendy's description of the stomach cramping pain? "It's just the worst!" Wendy's hospital drip soufflé was flavoured with just that hint of potassium, and seasoned with wonderful magnesium- yummy yummy yummy! Noroxin, being the brand name for norfloxacin, is an antibiotic in a class of drugs called fluoroquinolones, and appears to have done its work on Wendy. Noroxin's job, apart from confusing me, as it is an extra added to the tablet flock, has been to fight bacteria in Wendy's body. Dr Gavin M., an oncologist from our regular oncologist's practice, completed one of the hospital rounds and suggested Wendy take vitamin B6 twice a day (B6 is also called pyroxin being a trade name for pyridoxine hydrochloride). I am unsure why Wendy has this vitamin- but after a while you become blasé about adding new chemicals and simply resolve, "why not?" The doctor obviously has not seen our two baskets of goodies at home otherwise he may have reservations about adding to the pile of Wendy's medical paparazzi!
Gavin also suggested that we see our regular oncologist to reduce the potency of Xeloda. The current dosage is too severe in its side effects, most noticeable in the feet and hand pain that Wendy experiences. Unfortunately, Wendy had to "sensitise" her feet to pain before she decided to walk anywhere- I am assured that the feet pain in particular has not been a pleasant experience. We have a difficultly, in that we want to give the maximum amount of Xeloda possible- yet the negative is that Wendy's physical capacity, already low because of cancer and other complications, is not able to agree to high levels. There is a fine margin between therapeutic and toxic, and we need a balance that is effective as well as liveable. We are yet to determine that balance, and currently the scales have an arrow pointing at Wendy's "not tolerable" mark. Gavin has told us to hold off resuming the Xeloda until we see our regular oncologist, Dr Josie R., next Monday, where an appointment has been made for 3.45 pm.
Good news is that a 19-year old Canadian will be joining us, all going well, until June 2004. Jacque is a lovely young lady, has some great references, and we feel assured the children will bond with her. Wendy and I met Jacque for the first time late this afternoon, yet it became obvious that she is an appropriate fit for our household. Jacque will move in with us this Sunday.
The call to prayer is answered, and like the exclamation mark used when I advised that Wendy was again in hospital, the same exclamation mark, but plural, is used in relation to the inextinguishable supply of prayer...again!!!! If it were possible to quantify just a fraction of the prayers being created, represented by a virtual prayer wall on Wendy's website- a wall comprising a small block for an individual's prayer or even corporate prayer- it would show a tower of glowing bricks. A tower that would reflect much prayer- of praise; of intercession; of humility; of thanks; and represent powerful Spirit incitement. A tower moving God to assist in our difficulties. A thick tower, joined to more and more towers that have been made by many, to comprise a castle of prayer blocks arising in land dominated by fearful cancer. A prayer fortress similar to God's rock in Psalm 18 standing tall and rallying support against this insidious enemy- a castle that will not be moved from its foundations despite the repeated assaults by the enemy cancer. In the midst of what might otherwise be despair, our prayer castle is strongly constructed. Built with Hope, the prayer battlements have The Ultimate Sovereign's Colours flying high in the breeze of the Holy Spirit, with a strong army of God that has arisen across the nations, through prayer, and like Psalm 18, the Lord thunders from heaven and His voice resounds and "He shot his arrows and scattered the enemies, great bolts of lightning and routed them." And the one fortress finds itself with other fortresses, all shining brightly through the nations. Fortresses made with prayer casting brilliance of rainbow shadow in all directions as the True Light shines through the very many translucent citadels of strength built in human frailty.
Representative of those in prayer, a smidgen of those involved in the latest skirmish in our enduring war, just a small part in the wall of impenetrable prayer:
Lara and Jon: "Sorry to hear that Wendy is in Hospital again! What a blow! ...Please give her our love, I will be praying tonight, hoping that every prayer reaches its intended target and the "front" moves forward to defeat the enemy."
Margot and her husband D., "Like so many, we are constantly moved to prayer for such a lovely young lady, daughter, wife, mother to three, and a loving friend to so many people. May God hold you and ALL your family safely in the Palm of his hand....PS Fragile, handle with prayer. This side up -- to heaven -- we lift
our prayers to you loving Heavenly Father."
Shani: "Just got your email. Am praying now, as I do every day."
Herb: "...Susie and I continue every day in our petitions to the only true living God who listens and answers..."
Bernie: "...I am praying for Wendy, when I sit down for my devotions each morning she is in my thoughts first. I hope and pray the children are not finding it too hard with mum in hospital, but with the blessings around you in the way of the wonderful network of friends and family its encouraging..."
Pamela: "...I am standing on the word of the Lord with you - especially this word about Hezekiah...I know that God can change his mind, change the situation, and change us in any way..."
Steven Mc. reminds us of God's angel's when he writes: "God's angels are always looking in and God is always sending His angels to us. Hebrews 1; 14 "Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation"...The place of angels in the scripture is a very positive assurance that He is actively ministering to us. Hope you find this encouraging."
The Bible is resplendent with angel references. They are despatched for God's purpose, many times in response to prayer. Daniel 10 vs.12: "Then he continued, 'Do not be afraid Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. Now I have come to explain to you...'"
Like Daniel's experience, there may be delay in hearing news or seeing action that arises in response to prayer. Perhaps a "prince" allied to cancer has detained a special messenger or messengers for us- but only for a while. We feel surrounded by the Spirit of God- who may direct His angelic forces to take guard around us. 2 Kings 6 vs.16 remind us that we do not always see guardians. "'Don't be afraid', the prophet answered. 'Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.' And Elisha prayed, 'O Lord, open his eyes so he may see.' Then the Lord opened the servants eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha."
Prayer moves our Father to provide unlimited spiritual force- to surround strategic events with His horses and chariots of fire. Prayer encourages us, to have our eyes opened such that we may see that there are more for us than for our cancerous enemy and its axis allies. Prayer, inspired by the Spirit so that we have desire to pray to God, to move the most powerful of all things, Himself, to intervention and action. Prayer, the unseen but nevertheless overt wind of communication that causes Him to command His angels to wing their way across all the earth; to direct those who sang creations story and proclaimed the Messiah's birth. Prayer, that influences Him to direct mighty spiritual forces to proclaim the Resurrection and when necessary to forcibly take action both in the spiritual and physical.
Prayer that directs Him to direct "them" to take action beneficial to our objective of Wendy's restoration. Joshua, on what would be considered a God sanctioned mission, was reminded just before the fall of Jericho that God's army is completely and utterly loyal to God, and in what God directs. Joshua 5 vs.13: "Now when Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked 'Are you for us or for our enemies?' 'Neither', he replied, 'but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.'"
God encourages us to pray. God is influenced by pray. As Paul contends, we seek alignment with God and hence seek influence in a world that is dominated by some very bad spiritual guys- cancer is but one finger of such dominions. Ephesians 6 vs. 12: "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
We look back and observe spiritual and physical battles in this fight against the darkness of cancer. We look forward with resolve as we recognise further spiritual and physical obstructions exist that need to be moved. Cancer has for too long resided over its reign of fear, and it is time the spiritual dimension of this curse is crushed. The spiritual translates to the physical- in time, but one must come before the other- the spiritual is where any new order must originate. Our prayerful campaign to defend and ultimately bring sanctions against cancer remains firmly based on the Salvation of the Cross. For those important spiritual battles, please ask God to purposefully and strategically reveal His army of angelic warriors. Pray to the Father that these loyal-only-to-God envoys of enormous capacity clear paths and move any darkness that tries to pervade our forward pace. A path we look upon currently overgrown and seemingly dominated by cancer and cancer's talon of death. That God's angels keep clear the King's highway and that we are allowed by His authority to travel a path sanctioned at His redemptive cost. And where impediments arise, that those for us are given in sufficient strength, power and ability to adequately surround us so much so that they significantly outnumber those standing with the axis of cancer.
Please ask God to use His Spirit, His forces to move the darkness with terms of engagement that only the Father is able to utilise; for God to direct through His Calvary that gives access to the cavalry of His horses and chariots of fire; for God to do it all by His strength; His wisdom; His power; His authority; His glory and His purity- not ours. The battles we are involved with continue and as a result, so endures life. All going well, we will see Dr Bob S. at the Prince of Wales hospital on Thursday night to review the latest brain tumour. We remain individuals of Hope among people of Hope.
Cheers, requesting further prayers of colour,
Graham for Wendy, Emma, Joshua and Samuel
Update - 8 January 2004
Dear All,
I have to say it is both comforting and also of some disquiet when your pharmacist knows you by your first name- offers you credit and knows the names and ages of all the children! It is of greater disquiet when you go to hospital and see a 2-inch file that is brought out within a few moments of going to Emergency. Unfortunately, hydration has become an issue with the gastro bug and Wendy was in extreme stomach pain throughout the day. This was after an extremely bad night of visits to the bathroom on what must have been 5-minute intervals over a number of hours. This afternoon, Wendy conceded (yet again) that hospitals don't look all that bad after all. As she is currently on a drip, and is unable to keep anything down, she will not be complaining about the hospital food! Not for all while anyway. I was grateful that Wendy was given a room in the wards tonight, as our last longer stay in Emergency was not all that pleasant. From memory, people were being turned away and several patients were on trolleys in the corridors. Last time, we found out the vomiting was due to brain tumours and our hearts sank. Yet people heard of our plight, and turned up to pray in Emergency on that cold winters night so many long months ago. We were grateful. This time, we know we have at least one growing brain tumour in a difficult spot, but were impressed we could get onto a drip so quickly! And, despite the late hour of admission, Nicole, after coming back from overseas this morning, found out about Wendy and was with her, praying (and chatting) when I left. We take courage that we are continually surrounded by people who do not give up, who try in spite of all circumstances to stand on the Word of God for an impossible situation to become a beneficial reality.
The admission today marks another battle. The war could turn on such a battle, and hence prayer remains essential to defeating this gastro bug. It has stopped Wendy having the Xeloda for a time (as from last Sunday- as this was when anything swallowed decided to reappear), although we were due to take a 7-day respite from the tablet chemo in any instance from yesterday. Nevertheless, inconsistent chemo, so early in the day when effectiveness is on "time out", is not desirable. Strategically, the battle is just a small component compared to the overall war. The war will be decided on strategic moves on a complex chessboard. Unfortunately, we will not recognise the important turning points until after they are well past. Many strategic moves have been made, and hence the reason Wendy remains with us approaching 2 years in February 2004 when diagnosis gave a mere 6 months.
Strategy. I mentioned "Cytopia" a few updates ago- and the media release of potential interest to sufferers of cancer. I have extracted a section of their website (www.cytopia.com.au). Of interest to the blood brain barrier thought, and something I mentioned relates to
research involving small molecules.
Cytopia works with small molecules. Time will tell if these molecules are able to cross the barrier, and secondly, if they are useful to cross against tumours versus the good parts of the brain. All chemo must be
toxic, because that is what kills the bad cells. But dose levels and
potency remain critical as crossing the blood brain barrier also exposes good cells to the treatment. Quoting Cytopia from one section of their
website: "Our objective is to develop new, small molecule drugs that can disrupt aberrant cellular control mechanisms in these diseases, at the level of cell surface receptors, as well as their intracellular signalling mechanisms. Our major focus is on the protein tyrosine kinase family of enzymes (PTKs) many of which play pivotal roles in cell signalling. Kinases are now well-validated drug discovery targets, with the launch of GlivecR (also known as GleevecR or imatinib) by Novartis in 2001 to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia. Our strategy is to progressively assess all of the molecules in our diverse chemical library for activity against a broad range of kinase targets (a concept known as Parallel Chemical Genetics). This program generates a matrix of data, leading to a deep understanding of the chemical structures that determine specificity and potency against multiple targets. In this way, Cytopia is building a pipeline of drug candidates for a broad range of clinical needs."
The work of Cytopia is in the category of strategic importance. The last line I extracted from the website is important as reference is made to "broad range of clinical needs". In our case, we hope the research is useful for breast cancer and the many, many and even many secondaries Wendy is plagued with. Time remains critical as clinical trials of even FDA fast tracked programs take time. Watch this space.
Hezekiah was about Wendy's age when he was on the verge of death. The
Lord healed Hezekiah by the use of a fig poultice. Divine healing does not exclude the use of such applications. The work of research activity, breakthroughs in medical research are all part of God's sovereignty. Fig poultices come in many forms- the work of Cytopia may be just such a poultice.
2 Kings 20 tell of Hezekiah's illness. "In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to him and said, "This is what the Lord says: Put your house in order, because you are going to die; you will not recover." Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord, "Remember, O Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully and with wholehearted devotion and have done what is good in your eyes." And Hezekiah wept bitterly. Before Isaiah had left the middle court, the word of the Lord came to
him: "Go back and tell Hezekiah, the leader of my people, "This is what the Lord, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will heal you. On the third day from now you will go up to the temple of the Lord. I will add fifteen years to your life... Then Isaiah said, "Prepare a poultice of figs." They did so and applied it to the boil, and he recovered."
Despite what God had said to Hezekiah, prayer changed God's previous public position that was a guarantee that the man would die. Prayer- it is wonderful, it does make a difference!
Ann wrote to me after the last update: "...Quiet Prayers happening at my desk as we speak......the SOS is heard......maybe the prayers and new treatment will be the 'Enigma' Wendy needs.....". Another Anne writes: "...Recently I haven't been sleeping that well, for no particular reason, but whenever I am lying awake, it's been another chance to pray for you...I'm actually amazed at the innovative ways that God thinks of to remind me to pray!..."
In World War 2 the ability to break unbreakable German code that used
enigma machines was of strategic importance to allied victory. The
code breaking formula by Cytopia may be just what God has put on order for us? Maybe it is a poultice? If so, it has yet to be made in a form we may use. Tonight, prayer on a multitude of fronts is requested. A war comprising many strategic battles, with a battle tonight that remains important. The war is won by strategy, but may still be lost within a single battle that would otherwise have been of little strategic value at all, except that life is too fragile.
Cheers, remembering that life is fragile, please handle with prayer,
Graham for Wendy, Emma, Joshua and Samuel
Update - 7 January 2004
Dear All,
At the bone hardener infusion on 2 January 2004, the woman sitting next to Wendy and receiving chemo bemoaned “What a way to start the New Year?” What a way indeed! With our special Colours raised, it has not been long before the cancer has rattled its sabre.
The effectiveness of the Xeloda keeps us in suspense. We will not know for some time if it is useful. Pain generated, particularly in Wendy’s feet and to lesser extent her hands, is something we wished we could have avoided. Unfortunately, Wendy has caught a vomiting bug that has taken her through significant stomach pain, and necessity to visit the bathroom a little too frequently. This also stops Wendy taking the Xeloda chemo tablets. Judy N. from church transported Wendy to our GP today who has put Wendy on anti-biotic, and who made a comment of interest in that it was unexpected. Our GP said that Wendy’s level of hydration is “remarkably good” given her inability to have anything to eat or drink since the weekend. As such, she does not need to go to hospital for a drip- yet. Concurrently, we may be glimpsing our next battlefield as focus shifts to the brain. Our oncologist is concerned with Wendy’s balance and believes it relates to the latest known growth site in the brain. He mentioned it was near or in the cerebellum. Functions of the cerebellum may include the coordination of voluntary movement; balance and equilibrium and some memory for reflex motor acts. We are on the lookout for the loss of ability to coordinate fine movements; loss of ability to walk; inability to reach out and grab objects; tremors; dizziness; slurred speech or an inability to make rapid movements. However, the latest bug really makes such observations most difficult, as Wendy has found herself confined to bed, throwing up, unable to drink, and very limited in physical capability.
We have booked in to see Dr Bob S. at the Prince of Wales hospital on Thursday 15 January 2004 at 5.30 pm to assess the MRI (taken towards the end of 2003) and determine the appropriateness for radio stereo tactic surgery. Our oncologist considers the latest growth’s location difficult plus it may represent other spots elsewhere that, as yet, may be too small to be picked up by scan. It is the potential for several brain spots that causes significant concern. Even when feasible, the complex series of calculations required to compute trajectories that minimise destructive dosage to good areas of the brain constrain the maximum number of targetable tumour sites to only three. The neurosurgery eliminated five of the then seven known tumours, and the other two were (hopefully) destroyed by radio stereotactic surgery. Last time dosage levels were not set at the maximum as the whole of brain radiation (that failed) limited the radiation tolerance levels that Wendy could sustain. Nevertheless, the many thousands of pencil fine very high-energy beams from numerous entry angles carried very considerable zap power to the two tumours. The more radiation limits the usefulness for future radiation activity in that potency levels are reduced, commensurate to Wendy’s holistic radiation history that includes type, frequency, level and dates applied.
Miracle required, prayer being the key. And the call for prayer is being heard. Nancy has joined us from the Bronx. In another of New York’s borough’s Meagan writes: “... Be assured our prayers and best wishes as well as those of the people we are celebrating the New Year with, will be also with you. Let 2004 bring renewed hope, joy, peace and courage. Continue to savour the joy of every day and gain further strength from those around you. Live each day for the joy it can give you and enjoy every moment for the special creation it is. Surround yourself with healing love.” Bernadette writes from Shri Lanka: “It’s so lovely being in touch especially reading your updates… thousands of miles away from home. Wishing you all a Happy, Hopeful and Grace-filled New Year. I trust Wendy must be recovering well after her little touch down on Christmas morning, with the grace of God’s Healing touch. We have offered prayers for you on New Years Day service and all through the season.” And from Preshan in Sydney: “Wishing you all the very best for 2004. I am sure we will see mighty things happening this year and one of them that I am praying for is the total recovery and restoration of Wendy. Our God is a mighty God and He listens to all our cries...He does not sleep nor slumber and I am confident the healing will happen. Just as it turned 2004 I was praying and asking God what I should be doing this year...and the answer was to "increase my prayer time/ time I spend with Him and not to stop praying for people in need". So that’s what I will be doing, and leave everything else in God’s hand…we should not give up as HE HAS NOT GIVEN UP. Love and prayers.”
Why doesn’t chemo work in Wendy’s brain? In the brain, endothelial cells make up the walls of the capillaries. These cells are joined at the edges in a compact manner. They are so compact that the capillaries won't let large molecules pass through them into the brain- so they help make up the “Blood Brain Barrier”. No one really understands what the blood brain barrier is- why some things pass through this series of defensive gates and moats around the brain and other substances are rejected is not understood. Molecule size is one key. Many potential drugs to treat brain diseases are made of large molecules. Normally, large molecule treatments cannot penetrate the blood brain barrier. Trials have been conducted with direct injection of large molecules into animal brains- some with success. Other trials have pumped the blood stream full of sugar that causes the blood brain barrier to allow, for short time periods, ability for some larger molecules into the brain. For now, such research is not of practical use to Wendy. Should a small molecule chemo become available then this would be of potential assistance. Radio stereo tactic treatment is useful if you can see what you are shooting at. However, it has limited application depending on previous radiation experience; if there are too many spots; if the tumours are too large, and spots will grow in non targeted areas. A chemical solution to cover the entire body (brain included) that would effectively destroy the cancer would be wonderful. Such research is occurring with highly targeted small molecules. Time will always be a problem for Wendy, as we have little luxury on this dimension.
Calls for SOS prayer has been revered by many in literary style for a long time. Centuries ago, poetry was written by Samuel Taylor Coleridge. “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” was published in 1798. It is the story of a horrendous sea journey to the South Pole perpetually re-told by the lone Mariner, the sole survivor. The Mariner, whose wilful slaying of a bird of good omen- the albatross- resulted in a curse. A curse of disaster for two hundred crew along with the ship.
In the Rime, Coleridge alters the Mariner’s negative compass heading onto a positive tack away from the precipice of doom through, yes, prayer. Prayer changed the Mariner’s circumstances. From the depths of despair, after a scene that saw Death personified and gamble for the Mariner’s soul, prayer moved God to intervention so that the curse of the albatross (strung around his neck by his doomed shipmates) symbolically fell into deep waters. The Mariner was subsequently nourished by sleep and beneficial rain.
“The self-same moment I could pray;
And from my neck so free
The Albatross fell off, and sank
Like lead into the sea”
Wendy and I look to SOS prayer to incite God into hurling the curse of our albatross of cancer and its various tentacles into the deepest part of the ocean. The weight of the cancer tied around our family’s neck remains a burden. We continue to request and also feel a gentle mist of prayer shrouding, sustaining, and refreshing us on this longest of journeys. A journey that has seen us sail into the coldest and most inhospitable part of the world. Like the Ancient Mariner, we find ourselves in a frozen and cold medical South Pole.
“The ice was here, the ice was there,
The ice was all around:
It cracked and growled, and roared and howled,
Like noises in a swound!”
Yet prayer for us arises from even such remote places of ice. Prayer of intercession from people of faith as they travelled on a Russian vessel who advise via Dach, “…we thought of your Wendy down at the bottom of the earth, and indeed it was COLD, but absolutely fascinating (except for the return trip across the Drake Passage in a Force 11 Gale!!!). Setting off for Sydney tonight from Buenos Aires, and it is always great to get home…” Wendy and I know and take comfort that prayers have been spored in the frozen South and continue throughout the rest of the world.
The war that has us seesawing backwards and forwards continues. In the Rime of the Ancient Mariner, in section 6 of the 7 parts, a huge battle arises between opposing spiritual forces with Death’s minions making a final play for the Mariner’s existence. The verses describe our feelings, of being torn between spiritual nourishment, health and the adversary of Death. Death, trying again and again through the curse of cancer and all that is associated with it to wrestle Wendy from the grip of life held in place by the authority of God through the immovable Cross. God, who is moved by the wonderful prayers of the many. The “good guys” win the spiritual battle and the Mariner awakens to hear two seraphim angels talking, revealing the ship on a Northward journey to the Mariner’s homeland under the power of an unstoppable angelic force. Jen writes: “Dear Wendy, I just wanted to share with you a little verse I have been reading. ‘For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways’, Psalm 91:11. We are praying for you, and those angels!”
Wendy and I again face anxiety as we prepare to meet Dr S. We hear unwelcome cancer as it speaks of its progress in Wendy’s brain and its illegal dominion both there and elsewhere. The reality remains that one cancer spot may, indeed probably will, speak of spots elsewhere, if not now, then at some stage. When, not if.
Our Colours continue to flutter in the Spirit’s wind. Taunts by the enemy remain chastened against something more significant, more appealing and more powerful than even Death. The Cross. Prayer concerning what is discussed; options, and what Dr S. is able and also willing to do for us at our meeting would be appreciated. As Jen felt led to write, commands to His angels concerning special guard duty or other interventions on our behalf would be useful! The tussle for Wendy’s life continues. The struggle is not easy, and God’s firm grip continues to ensure that the best is brought out of our adverse circumstances. We are carried. We are tired. A land of Hope beckons. But in our Antarctic existence the land seems far to our North past many double digit force gales, and we may only make landfall in His strength; His encouragement; His awesome ability- surrounded by prayer that sway Him who may do Anything.
Cheers, with our ... --- ... / ... --- ... / .--. .-. .- -.-- . .-. / .-. . --.- ..- . ... - . -.. in constant repeat mode. For those without the Dee Dee Dot Dot Morse code translation dictionary, it simply means “SOS SOS Prayer requested”.
Graham for Wendy, Emma, Joshua and Samuel
Update - 1 January 2004
Dear All,
At the beginning of New Year 2004, symbolic prayer was said throughout the world. Symbolic in that it set a theme for 2004- yet symbolism with brilliance in that the prayers went and continue to go beyond token and make substantial difference. Wendy has experienced fantastic quality of life over the Christmas break, and apart from a bad fall mid morning on Christmas day that left much bruising (but luckily no stitches)- she had a ribbon breaking finish to 2003. While only hours old, 2004 has a theme of Hope, supported by persevering prayer from the many. And when the first rays of the New Year's sunrise filled the nations today, "Colours", a term for a very special and symbolic flag, has been presented to us and to the many. That Sovereign's flag, that "Colour" has been uncased and paraded, flying powerfully in the face of the enemy cancer- in the spiritual and physical worlds. For over 500 years Colours have embodied much symbol for Commonwealth military units.
Colours symbolise the spirit of fighting units, embodying a memorial to past battles, yet relevant through an enduring spirit that provides a visible standard for those who will follow. We have had a series of battles, and maintain scars that rather than unwelcome welts, are now spun as life tapestry among that symbolic Colour. While the Colour itself will eventually become historic memorabilia, its symbolism is something not extinguishable. Colours are presented by the Sovereign, or the Sovereign's most senior representative, at significant events. When presented, four qualities are embodied in the finest banner silk. The first- the character of the Sovereign who presents the flag. We have our Sovereign to whom even Queen Elizabeth II acknowledges allegiance, and His presentation of Colours to our circumstances causes us to marvel at what has been given- for it relates to authority. Prayer and capacity to change events that by ourselves would be lost. Authority to say things which, in and by ourselves, are meaningless. Authority backed by power to stand despite impossible circumstances. Our Colour is consecrated- it symbolises the character of God. It is blessed and set apart for Holy use. With the power of God it may be used to fight evil. It is dedicated- for a purpose that is a just cause. Our just cause is to fight the false white god of cancer- to fight the enemy that pervades the land with fear and leaves nobody immune Lastly, the Colour is given the character of those who serve it- for the many who are in prayer. Deeds of suffering, gallantry, faithfulness and loyalty of the military units become embodied in the flag. It is this final matter that gives venerable attitude to the Colour when it is paraded. Cancer has attacked many apart from ourselves- it has changed lives and caused suffering- but is has never damaged the eternal- the spirit. Our Colours fly high, in the bright array of a double rainbow of Hope. With this morning's dawn of New Year 2004 our Colours have been raised, and provide a rallying point in a war that has proved enduring and requiring perseverance.
Wendy's next bone hardener infusion is tomorrow. Prayer, particularly for the expected pain management would be appreciated. The Xeloda, to date, has adverse side effects with hand and feet itching, and mouth ulcers. Fortunately, the initial severe pain appears to have been principally related to the bone hardener.
On the research front, it is of potential significance that the head of research for the biotech company who has accompanied us on our journey was interviewed on a number of Australian national news programs on 17 December 2003, concerning a cancer "breakthrough". While the lead molecules appear to be a good fitting key to the lock of advanced prostate cancer- the compound may have greater utility that includes breast cancer. An independent study has recommended immediate acceleration for Clinical human trials Phase 1 on humans with advanced prostate cancer.
While the interview was screened on other channels, the national carrier, ABC television, has the news report on their website that says: "Australian scientists are set to trial a new drug that could offer hope to men suffering from advanced prostate cancer. The drug works to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in late stage tumours when other treatments have failed. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers with about 10,000 Australian men diagnosed each year. Doctors at the Royal Melbourne Hospital and a Melbourne bio-tech company Cytopia have been working on a new molecule to treat late stage prostate cancer. "What we are doing with this molecule is to put a spoke in the wheel as a consequence of that the cancer cell goes into a death spiral and ends up dying - a normal cell doesn't do that," chief scientific officer of Cytopia Dr Andrew Wilks said. Its developers say results show the compound killed late-stage human prostate cancer cells in animal studies. When mice injected with human prostate cells were treated with the molecule, the tumours shrank by 50 per cent after 40 days of treatment "Its very promising, there are a number of strategies for advanced prostate cancer and this is one of them," Professor Tony Costello said, head of urology at Royal Melbourne Hospital. While the initial results of the testing seem promising, cancer experts say the research is still in the early stages and the compound still needs to be proven in humans. AFL legend Robbie Flower was diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer and is now an advocate for awareness and prostate research. "It does give me hope that they will find a cure eventually, that they will find out they have cancer and cure it by medicine, without having to go through surgery," Mr Flower said. Human studies of the molecule will start in six months."
Does this mean anything for us in 2004? The question remains open.
Thankyou for the extra oomph power in the prayers and hymns on Christmas day, 2003. Many words of encouragement expressing special prayer and songful praise have come our way. This sentiment is reflected through e-mail from far North Queensland where Jennifer tells of her singing gusto:
"We attended church Christmas morning and we all said many prayers for Wendy and the family. We all also sang with great enthusiasm, which wasn't so good for the people surrounding me as I am not known for my great skill at singing! I am really starting to feel the power of healing and joy through prayer and would like to thank you for guiding me through...your words and thoughts are always uplifting, even when it is very sad and distressing news about Wendy, you always see the positive side. I will sing in loud voice once again at new years and wish for an easier 2004 for your whole family."
Our Colours are our standard. There is an old hymn with insightful lines: "Stand up, stand up for Jesus, as soldiers of the cross; lift high his royal banner, it must not suffer loss; from victory on to victory his army he shall lead..." As we start 2004 we resolutely push forward on mounted astride horses of fire, equipped with the armour of God, all the while viewing and reassured by the lifted high royal banner fluttering in the strong breeze of God's Spirit. We see Colours of suffering, humiliation, weakness and defeat that ultimately were none of such descriptions- but rather mighty strength in Spirit, transforming lives through suffering turned to victory from death via the most monumental of unjust crimes- the Cross! And we see the Colours of the cross, full of Hope against a vista of sins forgiven, forming an array that may only be described as beautiful. We do not know what 2004 will hold for us- indeed, the medical front finished with a bleak outlook as 2003 closed- but our Hope gives rise to victory in spite of circumstance. As for a medical miracle? Through prayer inspired by the Spirit all remains achievable. Nothing is a given. Please keep up the great conversations with God!
Thankyou again, for the prayers from this beginning of New Year 2004 that appear as many bright spots on the globe of the world, including at least 3 people on a ship in the Antarctic. Our Sovereign's Colour has been unfurled, and authority brims from vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, greens, blues, indigos, and violets refracted from the stream of God's pure Light. Distilled light weaved into the glistening river of life sourced from strength and authority vested by the Father in the Son Jesus Christ, inspired and completed by the powerful Holy Spirit. Providing Hope delivered.
Welcome to 2004- a year of Hope, not just for us, but also for many.
As "bouncy" Tigger says to Pooh Bear, "TTFN"- Ta Ta For Now!
Graham for Wendy, Emma, Joshua and Samuel