Two Down - Two to Go

Surprisingly, I was able to have my echocardiogram and bone scan done today. First, I was surprised because they said insurance approved the tests. Second, I was feeling so sick I wasn't sure I would be able to endure going for the tests. I know that many were praying because I felt it. They called me to come in early so I actually had the echocardiogram at 10:30. At 11:00 they gave me the injection for the bone scan. I was told to return at 2:00 for the bone scan. The scan was easier than I expected. I am hoping the PET Scan will be the same.

As soon as I returned from getting the bone scan our phone rang and it was the hospital calling. I was informed that they would not perform my surgery on Wednesday, Feb. 4th, unless I pay $1,425.00 up front. Working with the insurance company is getting so frustrating. They could care less what your situation is. Your a number and you must meet their number. AAAGGGGHHHH!

We didn't hear anything regarding the PET Scan yet. I am confident it will go through. Personally, I want it completed before the chemo starts so we have an accurate staging number, but I have heard they can start chemo before the test - I'm just not sure they will.

At least we have two tests completed. The surgery will be done on Wednesday. Please pray that my surgery will go as smoothly as the last one. There is no way we can compare the two surgeries but I could still have the same complications. I have to be at the hospital at 7:00 am. They did not tell me what time the surgery is but I am expecting between 8:00 am and 9:00 am. I would hope to home by Noon.

Even though I was feeling so sick this morning I still spent time reading my Bible. I also read today's devotional reading in Streams in the Desert. I was encouraged by the following verse and writing. "In the shadow of His hand He hid me; He made me into a polished arrow and concealed me in His quiver." Isaiah 49:2. Fear not! It is in the shadow of God's hand He is leading you, and there are lessons that can be learned only where He leads. In some realms of nature, the shadows or darkness are the places of the greatest growth.

Today, no matter what happened, I knew I was in the shadow of His hand. I felt protected and strengthened by Him.

Tomorrow my sister is coming for the week. She is going to help with Katie (her first band performance is on Thursday evening). Ashley will also take and pick up Matt from school. I can't wait to have her here. I'm so thankful she can be here for a few days. I'm sure it won't be as adventureous as our New Zealand one but I'm still expecting good talks and laughs.

I will write again Wednesday evening or Thursday morning. Don't forget to pray Wednesday morning.