A Clean Pathology Report!

We got word from the hospital that all of the pathology reports came back negative! Praise the Lord. This is a huge answer to prayer. What this means is that the cancer is completely contained. Because my mom has had the entire cancerous area removed, her prognosis is excellent. She is going to see the oncologist in the near future to see what the next step is.

Going into this whole cancer thing, my mom was acting like it wasn't a big deal and that is was just surgery.  Since the recovery process has begun,  she has come to realize how much of an emotional battle this has become. She is often emotional,  not sure why she is crying, but feeling down  just the same. Please be praying that  the Lord stays near to her and comforts her. Her healing continues to take it's own sweet time so she just continues to rest. :-) She's read a lot of books and done a lot of looking at the backs of her eyelids.

Our kids came home today. Seven days without your kids is a loooooong time. I say this in both a positive and a negative way. We missed them so much but we loved having some time to ourselves. We spent numerous days watching movies, falling asleep in the middle, and then having to rewind. Don't you just love days like that? I know, they are few and far between for most of us, but much appreciated when you get the chance to indulge.

Josh and I had a ton of time to talk about how we are going to continue moving forward as a family. I say this with reservation because I know there are some readers out there who have experienced an injury similar to Josh's or is the significant other of that person. I realize it has been over a year. I realize we need to move on. I realize how much we have been blessed and loved. I also realize that as of about 3 weeks ago, I was ready to check myself in somewhere because I felt I was standing on a precipice, getting ready to fall off. My sanity was gone long ago (I'm joking... okay... only joking a little) but I do need to be able to function at a certain level where we can all survive and be happy. Because of my lack of sanity, Josh's parents took the kids for the week so I could get some uninterrupted sleep and figure some things out. We've come to the conclusion that we may be looking to hire some help. I know many families do this without help, but my personality definitely predisposes me to depression. It is a constant battle for me to feel like I can do this. So many of you have been so much help to us over the past year, but I will ask again. :-) Will you please be in prayer for our family as we journey down this road of looking for someone who fits in well with our family and meets our needs? We aren't even sure what we are looking for at this time but we are praying for God to prepare us and this person who may become a big part of our lives.  It is difficult for me to admit that I can't do it all, especially when I see other's handling it without outside help. I guess this was just not to be for us. I wish I could do all the laundry, make all the meals, clean the house, play with the kids, help Josh with all his needs, and still have a lust for life. Most evenings, I'm so tired I just want to get in my bed and have a few minutes alone before falling asleep.

I was in the chapel at the YMCA this past week and doing some praying about our present circumstances. I get so frustrated with myself for not being able to handle everything with a decent attitude. It was then I felt like the Lord was telling me that HE made me. He knows what I am capable of and what I can and cannot handle. He put me in this situation. It did not just "happen." God chose for me to be Josh's wife, knowing full well Josh would become a quadriplegic. When He placed Ava in my womb, He knew we would only have her a short time. He created me to be Josh's wife and Ava's mom. Whether I think I can handle it or not is insignificant. My God can get me through anything. But my God has also allowed others to help us so that we CAN handle it. Those people are you. So many of you are my sanity. The meals that people brought, the money people gave so we could survive and outfit Josh with all his new needs, the people who came and cleaned my skanky house and toilets, the lawn that was mowed, the driveways that were shoveled, the time you spent loving my kids and still do... all of these things were my sanity. But most of all, your prayers for God to continue to surround us and love us, for Him to make his presence known to us in even the hardest situations, these are the main things that get me through. Please continue to pray for us. When I have a day where I think I should be losing my mind but I am just thankful for life, these are the days I know I am being prayed for. Thank you. More than you know...

Print | posted @ Sunday, April 13, 2008 11:02 PM

Comments on this entry:

Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Sharlene MacLaren at 4/14/2008 12:38 AM

Oh, sweet, sweet Shelly, I just opened your page and read your post. (I have never missed one!) My heart aches for all of you, but I know you don't need one more aching heart on your shoulders (grins). Rather, you need my prayers, so I will offer up one for you at this very moment.

"Precious Heavenly Father, please reveal Your love and care for Shelly in these wee hours of the morning. Grant her a peaceful night of sleep so that when she opens her eyes in the morning, she will be met with a brand new strength and a measure of courage she's never before experienced.

Lord, please help her get through these times of unfathomable discouragement. Lord, so lift her above her circumstances that at times it will feel like she's almost floating. I know you can do it, Lord, because I've experienced those times in my own life when I didn't think I could go on--and then you gave me such PEACE and JOY!

Lord, please walk with Shelly through those times when she feels close to 'the brink'. Help her know these are normal ways to feel, and that she's not some SUPER-HUMAN woman who should be able to get up every morning and be perfect. We are only perfect when we place our complete and total trust in YOU, and then we are only perfect in Your eyes, never our own.

Help both Josh and Shelly know it's okay to need others, even to the point of hiring assistance. What a blessing it will be to meet that "just right" person for the position. May this special meeting come soon, Lord, so that Josh and Shelly may begin to experience some relief from the load they both carry.

Dear Father, please, please, PLEASE show Josh what tremendous VALUE he has in Your eyes, what an amazing man of God he is, and just how very much You cherish and love him. Reveal Yourself in the coming days so he can know more thoroughly what plans you have for him. Give him guidance, wisdom, strength, and courage for this bumpy, hard journey he's taking. The rest of us can't even imagine; in fact, we wince and think 'Eeeoouuu, don't ever make me go down that road, Lord. I couldn't handle it one-tenth as well as the Bucks.' But the truth is, we could if You called us to walk it, if You thought we were worthy enough of such a calling.

God, send your angels of care and protection to stand watch over the Buck household tonight and in the nights to come. May they grow to love you more tomorrow than yesterday, and may they learn to drink more freely of this bitter cup, sweetened only by Your loving kindness.

We bring this humble prayer to Your throne, Lord Jesus, and thank You for Your faithful goodness and mercy.

Amen."

Shelly, I'm ecstatic that your mom's cancer was contained. Some of us "girls", ur, ol' ladies, are meeting her for lunch Friday. Yea! Can't wait to see her and give her a hug -- a gentle hug, that is.

And now--imagine a hug from me, a big, tight, squeezy one!

LOVE you, sweetheart.

Shar
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by AmyL at 4/14/2008 2:12 AM

Shelly, great news on your mom! I'm very happy for you.

As for hiring help, there's nothing wrong with that and you're no less wonderful for doing it. Sometimes we look at other folks and compare ourselves to them. That's unfair and not what God wants. He wants us to follow the path that He has laid out for us, not someone else's.

Perhaps there is a new ministry that will open up for you with the addition of this person in your life. Or perhaps there are lessons yet to learn, or a new family member to welcome into your lives. Or, maybe God just wants you to have more help and support.

This is an opportunity, not a failure and you're definitely in my prayers. :)
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Jean Syswerda at 4/14/2008 9:18 AM

Oh, my Shelly, how good you are at making this momma of yours cry. 'Course right now I cry over a robin who is struggling with a worm outside my window. Tears are becoming my friend rather than the enemy they were for so many years. Yesterday's sermon at church (I wasn't there but Dad pointed it out as a good verse for your situation...and it is) was from 2 Chronicles 20:12, where King Jehoshaphat was facing the armies of Moab and Ammon. He prayed, "O our God...we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." With you, we're keeping our eyes on Him, giving Him the lead, allowing Him to show us the way.
With lots of momma and grandma love,
Jean
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Kim at 4/14/2008 10:52 AM

Wow, Shelly. Your last paragraph was so powerful. God has been speaking his truth to you, and I am so grateful for that! Your family continues to be in my prayers! Love, Kim (Marion, IN)
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Carrie at 4/14/2008 11:14 AM

Can you believe it, two posts in two consecutive days for me?! Even I am amazed :)! YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!! Praise the LORD! We will continue to keep your mom in our prayers. And for you and Josh as you lean on the Lord and continue to look to Him for direction. In His timing He will bring the right person at the perfect time. Love ya!
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Bekah at 4/14/2008 1:39 PM

Shelly - I don't know that I've ever left a comment for you before, but I've been reading your blog ever since Josh's accident...and I read your previous blog even before that. I was in school at IWU when you both were, and my best friend was in Josh's high school class. I have been praying for you and wanted you to know that I still do as God brings you to my mind throughout the weeks. I appreciate your open heart to share what is really going on in your lives beyond the surface. You both have been an encouragement to me beyond what you can even know and I wanted to thank you for being willing to share this journey like you have.
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by patty kemple at 4/14/2008 1:52 PM

what an amazing family you are! GOD is good! love to all, patty
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Nicole Hummel at 4/14/2008 3:36 PM

Shelly,

I agree with you totally! I know I have said this before, but in no way does Bryson's accident compare to all that you have gone through. Although it has been hard on us. I have to admit that since Bryson's accident I have not cleaned my own house and have hardly cooked any meals. I pay two girls to come and clean and am still eating freezer meals that people have sent our family. I am so glad I chose have people at least clean our house and I don't regret if for a minute. It gives me a good 6 hours every other week back and I am sure you know how precious that is. Not that my opinion really matters but get all the help you can!

I am also so happy to hear about your mom. I have been praying for you all.

Nicole
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Cheri at 4/14/2008 5:22 PM

Shelly,
That is wonderful news about your mom's pathology report! I know you all must be relieved to hear that. You are such a strong and inspirational person and your family continues to be in our thoughts and prayers. We pray that God helps you to find the strength and endurance you need to make it thru the days ahead. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Sometimes it takes the most strength to do just that. Take care!
The Barnett's
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Susan at 4/14/2008 6:40 PM

Shelly-NO apologies necessary...you are who you are and do what you can do. Hiring help is a great idea.... I don't like to think of you as standing on the precipice. The old saying, "If momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy" comes to mind. Your peace of mind and well being is so important to Josh and the kids. They need you in good spirits and good health! So...I will be praying that God will lead that special person who is "just right" to meet your needs. Praising and thanking God for the Jean's pathology report! I pray for her continued recovery.
Blessings, Susan
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Janine at 4/14/2008 9:15 PM

Great news on your Mom! I can understand the tears. I am sure she has a bucket or two she's been storing up. Nothing like a good cry.

I think hiring someone is a great solution. Although the various helpers you have had were wonderful and continue (I am sure) to be God sent, the continuity of one person would do you all a world a good. And...you'd be giving someone who needs a job a chance to work for a living and meet a great family like yours. We'll be praying for you!
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by April at 4/15/2008 1:35 AM

Shelly-
I wanted to share how God led me to pray for you recently. I was clearing out some old music folders, and I came across some music from when I was an accompanist for voice lessons at IWU. I discovered your name and lesson time I had written at the top of "You'll Never Walk Alone". I don't know why I had hung on to that old photocopy for so long, but apparently I was supposed to find it again now--I said a prayer for you, Josh and your family right then and there. I will continue to pray.

April (Uthoff), just one among the many, many anonymous people who are lifting you up in prayer... :)
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Cindy at 4/15/2008 10:14 AM

Hi Shelly!
We don't know each other but I just wanted you to know how much I admire your honesty through everything. It's not always an easy thing to admit you can't do it all. I too was in a situation, mind you no where near what you all have been through, but none the less, I too had a revelation that I was not "super woman"(imagine that!) and could not do it all. It was at that moment that I really learned something about who I was. It's ok to ask for help and I think in the long run it will make you a better wife, mom, daughter,and friend to everyone. You can go without a lot of "things" I have learned, sleep and peace of mind are not one of them. Anyways, Thanks for sharing your journey with all of. God Bless

Cindy
Windsor, Ontario
Canada
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Jen Prince at 4/15/2008 11:36 AM

Shelly--Yes it has been a year, but there is no time frame when "normal" happens. It's been almost five for us, and while things are much more normal now, we still feel like we're adjusting. It's overwhelming being a mom to three children, wife, caregiver, and physically responsible for household needs, besides the fincancial needs that we face! Take care--hugs and prayers-Jen
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Caryn Christensen at 4/15/2008 12:19 PM

This first comment is to Jean. I've never met you, but can tell what a wonderful relationship you and Shelly have, and it is so heart-warming to read your interactions with Shelly. (The mama in me cries a lot too :) when I read Shelly's blogs! I am soooo grateful that God is healing you. Use this time to rest and be good to that body of yours--it's the only one you have and here's a quote from Pastor Garlow--without it, you have no ministry on this earth!
Now to Shelly. How many of us would have been as strong as you in the exact situation? You have shared with us in such a pure and truthful way about your heartaches and struggles that there is no way any of us stands in judgement about you getting help (of any kind). If anything, hopefully your blogs have raised awareness of the NEED for others in the same situation to receive help as well.
The verse that comes to mind when I read your blogs is "In my weakness You are strong." God has been able to show Himself strong on your behalf through your weaknesses and He has shown up in BIG ways for your entire family. I love the last paragraph of your blog because you are exactly where God wants you. You are an INCREDIBLE woman of God, and an incredible witness to God's mercy and faithfulness. However, one gets tired of being strong at times, and you are right--He hasn't called you to be strong at all times--just submitted--which you are. May the Lord send you a wonderful, trustworthy, awesome, and capable companion to help out in your home. May He also bring you lots of laughter and blessings through your children, good friends and family.
Glad to read that you know you are loved!
Your always in my thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Caryn Christensen


Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Jamie Soen Leonhard at 4/15/2008 3:11 PM

Shelly,
My name is Jamie and my Dad was Josh's roomie back in Taylor. Josh may or may not remember me, as its been a lot of years since we saw each other ( I think we were teenagers).

My husband and I work with young people here in Granada, Spain. We are "missionaries" but a different breed. I'm a writer/photographer and Andrew is a photographer/videographer.

Enough about us, I wanted to let you know I just heard a little about your journey today. I've listened to Josh's myspace, and I'm intrigued with his work. Its good, unlike anything I've seen.

If Josh has written lyrics for songs of lament, repentence, and mourning, I'd like to see them. If he'd like someone to help him set them to a more conventional style music, I might be able to help.

My email is jambilee@gmail.com and I'm also on Skype with jambilee as my screen name. I'd love to chat with you and Josh more about this.

Warmly,
Jamie Soen Leonhard
Photographer/Writer
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Lisa Bos at 4/16/2008 10:19 PM

Shelly,
I am so happy for your mom, and have been praying for her~
I want you to know that I think of you and Josh often, and pray for you and the family....I am serious when I say this, I would be more than happy to come and help anytime that you need a break. Be that cleaning, cooking and freezing a weeks worth of meals, or taking care of Josh, lifting (it might actually be a relief to feel like a nurse again :) ), or taking care of the kids. Please, Please, Please- know that I really would love to bless you as well.

Hope to talk with you soon,
Love you guys!
Blessings,
Lisa Bos
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Claudia Bender at 4/18/2008 12:21 AM

Hi Shelly and Josh,
Remember what they say on the airplane - put on your oxygen mask before your kids - so you can stay strong/alive for them. Shelly, maybe when you welcome the new help into your house you can plan some alone time for walks - exercise is so key for fighting depression. And yes, I realize you get plenty of exercise chasing kids, but exercise by yourself will give you think time!! Yeah for Jean!! Each year I participate in the Susan B. Komen 60-mile walk to raise money for breast cancer. The survivor stories are amazing - I will add Jean to the list of women (and men) I walk in honor of. Lucky kids to have grandparents to keep them for a week. Bet Josh's parents are resting up this week!
Take care. Claudia from SVMS.
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Marianne Evans at 4/19/2008 12:00 AM

Shelly, so good to hear of the good news on the pathology report! I am glad you and Josh were able to have some "we" time to relax and reflect on the past year. I don't think there is any reason to feel bad for not moving on per se or feeling you need help in the long term. Josh did so much hands on stuff with the kids and the house that I think it would be an insurmountable task to try and do that all yourself! I imagine the situation is different for everyone, some may have more kids, less kids, experience with home repair or car stuff or not, energy levels (hey we both know about that one!), physical or mental limitations, support from friends/family/strangers/organizations, and well the list could go on. There are probably many that could use more help too, and cannot do so. Like Caryn C mentioned, hopefully there will be more awareness for others out there too that need that help.

For the Bucks, I will keep prayers for Jean's follow up with the oncologist, healing over your broken heart from the loss of Ava, and the guidance to finding the right person to fit in with your family and needs so that you are able to enjoy the precious time with your family that you have been blessed with. I don't have children, but I imagine the time from crawling to graduating from college seems like the blink of an eye in retrospect when they are grown up.

Wishing you all well,
Marianne
Gravatar # re: A Clean Pathology Report!
by Carole at 5/13/2008 11:20 AM

Shelly,

You don't know me but I have been praying for your family - mostly praying for God to bless you & give you strength and joy! Thank you so much for your honesty as you walk this journey. It is so encouraging for other Christians to be honest about their struggles, depression, etc. all the things you expressed. I love so much what you said about God making you who you are, and is there to walk you through this journey called life . . .I can't begin to even imagine walking in your shoes and am grateful that you allow those you don't even know into your world. You are a blessing and a testimony to God's love, Shelly - I can barely find the right words to express my gratitutde for you and Josh sharing your struggles, your story, your life. I will keep you & your family in my prayers always. God Bless.

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