May 23, 2012
So do not fear, for I am with you
Do not be dismayed, for I am your God
I will strengthen you and help you
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand
Isaiah 41:10
Today, we have the news that we were hoping not to hear. I think that no one can say it better than Madeleine's own words - words that she put on Facebook shortly after hearing the oncologist's report:
As many of you know, these past five months I have been faced with many obstacles and challenges I have had to overcome. Today the results for my most recent biopsy confirmed melanoma in my liver. Soon I will begin further treatment to try and beat this damn cancer. The cancer is putting up quite a battle, but nothing will stop me from beating it, no matter how much it takes! I have so many people to thank for all the support, prayers, and words of encouragement. Thanks ♥ MadeleineAnd so for now, we are in the process of waiting to hear what the next stage of treatment will look like. Madeleine's oncologist is in contact with the melanoma specialist, Dr. Daud from UCSF, as well as another melanoma expert, and they are working on finalizing some treatment options for us.
As we wait for that news, we also don't want to lose sight of some of the good things that have been going on this week. Last night, we were able to watch as Madeleine was presented with the "The Mighty Viking" trophy which was presented to her by her swim coach for the role she played on Montgomery's swim team this year. Before the year even started, Madeleine initiated a meeting with the swim coach to discuss ideas to help the team succeed. She was able to serve as one of the team captains this year, and while chemotherapy affected her ability to participate, her heart really was there for her team.
We are looking ahead to this Friday night, when Madeleine will be graduating from Montgomery High and having an opportunity to speak at graduation. Our focus is there right now - as it should be - and then we will be ready to take on the next phase of this battle.
As always, thank you for your prayers and concern.
3 comments:
I have seen few people, young or old, handle the challenges you have faced this year with such strength and courage. You have been an inspiration to me this year, and I cannot wait to hear your speech at graduation.(I will be bringing my tissue!) You will continue to be in my prayers, and thank you for being such an inspiration to me and so many others.
Madeleine, my name is Kelly Ridgway and I am Chelsea Ridgway's mom. I want you to know that I hold you in my thoughts and prayers everyday. You are a strong and courageous young lady and I pray that God will give you the strength needed to face whatever challenge comes your way. Hang in there and know that you are being prayed for all the time.
Kelly
I've not met you Madeleine, (that's the power of facebook-my former youth pastor knows your dad) and I've spent the last hour reading over your whole story...I'm moved by your courage and the faith and love of your family. Today, I am praying for you. You are a gorgeous girl, with a strong, strong spirt. May God give you everything you need, just as you need it for this next chapter. I don't have to know you to be so, so sorry that your life as you expected it has been swapped for another story. You are living this chapter of it so well. I'm praying that God will give you grace and humor, hope and healing.
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