As this blog comes to an end.....

 I thought that this poem that describes Denise would be a good way to close this blog.....

"A Parable of Immortality" by Henry van Dyke.

I am standing by the seashore.
A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze
and starts for the blue ocean.
...She is an object of beauty and strength,
and I stand and watch
until at last she hangs like a speck of white cloud
just where the sun and sky come down to mingle with each other.

Then someone at my side says, 'There she goes!
Gone where? Gone from my sight - that is all.

She is just as large in mast and hull and spar
as she was when she left my side
and just as able to bear her load of living freight
to the places of destination.
Her diminished size is in me, not in her.

And just at the moment when someone at my side says,
'There she goes! ' ,
there are other eyes watching her coming,
and other voices ready to take up the glad shout :
'Here she comes!'

Denise's Obituary

Denise S. Carpenter

Denise S. Carpenter July 25, 2011

VERONA — Denise S. Carpenter, 59, of Durhamville, went to be with the Lord July 25, 2011, while at home, peacefully in her sleep after a courageous battle against cancer.
Denise met her husband, Pastor Jeffery Carpenter, at the then Independent Baptist Church; and they were married there on April 23, 1983. She is survived by her husband, Jeff; children, Daniel Carpenter (Tiffany Carpenter), Melissa Quinn (Michael Quinn), Faith Carpenter, and Darren Carpenter; grandchildren, Daniel Dyce Carpenter Jr. and Declan Dean Carpenter; siblings, Duane Saari (Nancy Saari), Sheila Vernor (Jerry Vernor), Maureen Wildman (Kent Wildman), and Marc Saari; and many nephews, nieces and cousins.
Denise’s life was characterized primarily by her close personal relationship with the Lord. Much of her time and energy was devoted to using her talents in teaching sign language and art to serve in Friendship Baptist Church, of which her husband has been the pastor for twelve years.
Above all, Denise enjoyed spending time with her family. Some of her favorite activities included biking, working in her flower beds, photography, white water rafting, rock climbing and snowmobiling. She was a woman with a wonderful sense of humor who lived her life to its fullest.
Even during the difficult times of her illness, her strength truly came from the Lord. She was ready to be offered. She fought a good fight. She finished her course. Crowns of righteousness are laid up for her. She has left us to carry on with her torch.
The funeral will be held Friday at 11:00 a.m. at the Friendship Baptist Church. Burial will be in Rathbunville Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call at Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Thursday 4 to 8 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Friendship Baptist Church.
Please offer online tributes or light a candle at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com

Funeral Arrangements for Denise

Calling hours:
Thursday from 4-8 pm at Barry Funeral Home 807 W. Chestnut St. Rome

Funeral:
Friday at 11:00 am at Friendship Baptist Church
Graveside service immediately following

There will be lunch available at Friendship Baptist Church following the graveside service - everyone is welcome.

Monday, July 25th

Denise went home to be with the Lord early this morning.  Please pray for her family during this time.  I will let you know arrangements when I know. 

Friday, July 22

It seems to get harder each time I post on the blog.  Finding the right words to say seems impossible.  Denise is failing.  She is only awake an average of 2-3 hours a day. She is down to 112 lbs. pounds.   She started having a lot of pain last night.   They said that she should be able to be pain free, so please pray that they will be able to make the necessary changes to keep her comfortable. 
Thankful that God is always faithful and that His grace is sufficient! 

Monday, July18th

It's been awhile since I've updated the blog.  Pastor or Denise usually tell me what to put on the blog but there really hasn't been anything new.   I visited with her today for a short time.  She was sitting up on the couch talking with me and a couple of ladies from church.  It was hard to see her so thin and so weak.  What really amazed me was her concern for everyone else.  I have to tell you that last week she was such a blessing to so many.  It was Vacation Bible School last week at our church.  Denise has always been very involved with VBS so it was difficult for her not to be there.  Instead of sitting home letting Satan discourage her she decided to make the best of it.  She became a VBS prayer warrior!  Everyday I would give her a specific list of prayer requests for VBS for that night including who was teaching.  She backed us up in prayer and let me tell you, it was the best VBS we have ever had and I attribute that to her faithfullness in prayer and of course God's faithfulness in answering them!  It resulted in many getting saved (which she asked for their names so that she could continue pray for them!)  As we talked today, she was excited to hear all that went on last week.  You could seem the joy in her eyes! I can't help but smile when I am typing this because that's what naturally happens when I think of her!  What an amazing example she has been to me personally and I know to many that are reading this!  Thank you for praying for her and her family.  Please continue to lift them up to the Lord!

From Denise, July 12th

Hello everyone:
I am rejoicing that there was one saved at our VBS last night.  He is so faithful.
As for me I seem to have a little more perk today.  Thank you for your prayers, and faithfulness.

Saturday, July 9th from Denise

I'm very tired and weak today, so call before coming over.  It was hard to wake with praise and thanksgiving today but God is gracious.  He gives us what we need.
Love, Denise

A Note from Denise, July 8th

Good Morning,

What a beautiful day. I am doing good, although I'm tired from my morning routine. It's a busy day today.  Faith and Melissa are having a party for Melissa tonight, so the place is buzzing with cooking and decorating. We thank the Lord for beautiful weather.

I want to open up more time for ministry and fellowship with the ladies.  We're finding that the weekends don't make a particularly good time for our immediate family to get together, so if you don't mind a busy time for your visit give a call on a Saturday. 
(Please, do leave Sunday's to us unless you've had a personal invitation though.)

Personal prayer requests would be that I could serve the Lord today somehow, and that I would know Him more and His will for me at this point.  I enjoy the fellowship I've had, ...  thank you to those who have stopped by. Thank you to those who wish they could stop by, but have fellowshiped in prayer and thoughts.

Love Denise

July 7th, 2011

Denise has been quite tired, other than that she said she is doing OK.  She thought that on a day that she was feeling good enough that she would post on the blog that she was up for company.  She desires to be used of God and wants to be a blessing to others even in the midst of her illness.  She thought it would be nice to get together with women and ponder some biblical truth, just talk about everyday things or even some situation at home that someone may be struggling with.  Because she can only take one day at a time (which is something we all need to do! : ), she said it would be best if she just let me know in the morning if she was up to having company that day. If so, I will post it on the blog.  If you are interested in visiting her, e-mail me at the address above or comment on this blog and I can personally let you know when she is up for a visit.

July 3rd. Update from Denise

Hello Everyone,
I am somewhat surprised to wake up this morning with energy! That has gotten to be a missing ingredient in my life!  It felt good to get up and do some things for myself. Now mind you, I've already taken a nap! So I'm not planning any hiking trips, although I do think in my dream I was on some sweet remote path up a woodland hill! It must be the sound of the birds outside my window!
Thank you for your prayers. Really nothing has changed. I believe this has been stated before: The amount of fluid I take in through the iv during the night has been cut in half, so the swelling in my legs and the pain because of that is gone. There are no other developments beyond that.
Spiritually speaking, the Lord is my refuge. This morning I listened to a sermon by Tom Styles which I've heard before. It's on Ps. 46. The Lord is my refuge in the time of trouble, and today I'm really feeling that. 
May God bless you all.
Love Denise

June 27th Update from Denise

I've had a problem with swelling in my leg, and pain behind the knee. Today that seems to be much better. So I praise the Lord for that improvement. I am very tired today though. I guess that is to be expected. Thanks for your prayers. Love Denise

Saturday, June 22nd Prayer Request

Prayer request -  Denise texted me this morning and asked us to pray.   Her foot is swollen and she has pain behind her knee.  She is putting heat packs on it.  Not sure what is going on.  Please keep her in your prayers! 

Friday, June 24th

Good morning everyone.
 I know it has been a long time since you've heard from me on a personal level. It would seem that I have all kinds of time free, but I can't explain really where my time goes!  I am not much of a writer, and if I don't feel well, writing seems to be the last thing I can do, so my apology for not being more on top of it, but it is what it is.

However, this morning I was doing a discipleship lesson with my friend, Jin from Alabama. And she was such a blessing to me, I had to share it with you. It's really very simple and something that I've heard and even experienced before. (There's noting new under the sun!) However I was blessed.Lesson: As you think of His works, what has God done in your life since you have become a Christian for which you can praise Him?  Take a moment to ponder and jot down some of those things,,,Jin's response: A lot. I can see God's work, plan, purpose, perfect time...  God is so awesome. I don't know how to describe that. It is like we stop for a moment to wake up and realize [what] God has done in our lives (by action).My answer: That is worship. You are actively looking for God's work and grace in your life. It's also fellowship. You are ready to talk with Him about what He is doing with you, and with the people you love.  That is what friends do. (And this is where it got me. I don't take the time to just sit and talk with Him like a friend. I've done it before, but haven't in awhile). You put yourself in a place to be a friend of God. And not in a bad, or proud way. Wow! I GET IT :D (that's our personal saying when God has blessed us in His personal way!) Here's something you've (Jin) just taught me! I've been missing this. I need to put it on the blog!So that was it. It seems like it's been so "overworked," or "overused" or whatever. Maybe it was Jin's statement: "It is like we stop for a moment to wake up and realize..."
"...stop and realize..." 

I've had my siblings coming in to visit a lot this past week and this coming week. It has been great. I ask for your prayers that I feel good while they are here. I wasn't doing well when my brother, Duane and his wife Nancy, came from Saratoga. So I hope that we can get together again. Maureen in in from Tenn. So far our visit has been going very good. Marc hopefully will make it in from Az tonight, and I'll get to spend time with him next week. It's tricky to plan anything when you don't know from day to day how you will feel. So I ask your prayers again for God's will in it all.
Love you all for your faithfulness in praying.
Denise

Tuesday, June 21st

I see that several of you have been checking the blog and there has not been an update.  There really has not been a lot of change.  She has had some days where she has felt decent and then days where she isn't doing well.  While vsiting with her yesterday, she said she is very weak.  Her stomach doesn't seem to be able to tolerate much.  She said that the past couple days have been on the down side.  She appreciates all of your prayers so much.  Pray for God's continues peace, comfort and strength.

Monday, June 13th

I am happy to anncounce that Pastor and Denise are the proud grandparents of their second grand child, Declan Dean Carpenter!!!  He was born June 9th.  What a blessing it was for Denise to get to hold him!  She said she didn't want to give him up!  Last week was a very rough week but the last couple days she has felt a little more energetic.  I went over last night to visit with her and we painted the vacation Bible school memory verse posters together!  She even kept a couple posters to work on herself - she said she wants to keep serving Him to the end!   We all were surprised when Denise walked into church yesterday morning!  We shouldn't have been surprised because God answers prayer!!!
I will attach some pictures of Denise with her new grandson - they show up on the bottom of the blog.

Wednesday, June 8th

There is no easy way to say this.  Denise had her doctor appointment yesterday morning.  The doctor told her that her cancer has spread.  Her liver is full of cancer.  The doctor said that she has a few weeks left at the most.  She is very weak.   She has fought this battle long and hard.  She is such an amazing woman, inside and out!  Please pray for God's continued peace and comfort for her and her family during the days and weeks ahead.

Monday, June 6th

Denise was at the hospital by 8:30 this morning.  They did some tests, drained some fluid pockets in her abdomen, changed the needle in her port (I hope I got the wording right on that ) and they put in a new G-tube.  She was home by around 3:00 but was quite exhuasted from the day.  Now that the G-tube is draining, that is helping with some of the stomach issues that she was having.  She returns to the doctor in the morning to see about starting up the TPN (the food supplement that she was receiving for 12 hours every night) again, now that the infection seems to have cleared. Thanks for praying.....keep it up!   

Sunday, June 5th

Wanted to let you know that Denise made it home safely.  Praise God!  She is not doing well right now because of the G-tube still not draining, which is causing a lot o issues.  She has to go to the hospital tomorrow morning for some tests and for the doctors to decide what to do.  If you want to send her a note, comment on the blog.....she doesn't get on facebook so she doesn't see the comments you leave there, but she can check the blog and see your comments.  I'll let you know more tomorrow.

Friday, June 3rd

Sorry I didn't update you sooner.  I usually wait for Pastor or Denise it tell me to do so, but I could have let you know what was going on.  Denise ended up checking herself out of the hospital because they really weren't doing anything.  Her G-tube is still not draining which is causing her a lot of discomfort. She is also having trouble with the pump for her 12 hour fluids.  She is going to the ER this evening to get some fluids and she is praying it will give her the energy to get back home as they are flying out tomorrow.  Please keep all of this in your prayers.  I will let you know when she gets back home.  Keep on praying!

Tuesday, May 31st

Denise went to the doctors this morning (down in Florda) because her G-tube wouldn't drain.  The doctor admitted her to the hospital to see if they can get it draining.  If they cannot get it to drain, they will have to do outpatient surgery and put a new drain in.  Please pray that it will start draining!

Prayer Request!! May 29th

Most of you know that Denise was able to fly down to Florida.  They left last Friday and will not be back until Saturday.  Pastor called and asked me to post the following prayer request:  Denise's G-tube is not draining and we need to pray that it will start draining.    It is blocked for some reason.  If it doesn't start draining, she will need to get to the doctor and of course with the holiday weekend, that will not happen until Tuesday.  I will keep you posted as information is passed along.

A message from Denise! May 24th

Hello everyone,
Once again I thank you for your prayers, and your faithfulness. It's always amazing to me the number of people that hold me up in prayer daily; I just can't express my gratitude with words. And, praise the Lord, He has answered your prayers once again in that I will be going to Florida with my sisters and daughters. I feel so much better than I did last week before the blood transfusion and the antibiotic for the infection in my port.
I still get tired at the drop of a hat, but the fever, chills and sweats are gone. I wake up in the morning with the desire to get out of bed, which the weeks before I had to force myself to get up.
I am just returning from seeing Dr. Cunningham again. This time because I suspected that the ascites was building up again in my abdominal area. That is the case but there's not a pocket of fluid big enough for them to remove it there in the office. I'd have to go to the hospital to have it done, so I declined until I come home. (Ascites is the fluid that cancer will produce around itself. This does indicate that the cancer is active again, but at present it isn't growing crazily.)
My very current status is that the chemo I've been doing is no longer working, and it is the last chemo available. So now it's the Lord and me. And this is what I've learned on the spiritual end. I have come to realize that God does not want a fake front from us. He understands when, and even wants us to get to the place where we discard all pretenses of strength and great faith, and fall desperately at His feet and cry out, "O Lord, there is nothing I can do, I need You, I can't carry on any longer." Someone once said that when life is going good we say a prayer, but when life is though we truly pray! I do believe that my faith has grown leaps and bounds in the past few weeks, and it's all because the Lord is teaching me on a higher level how to have a deeper relationship with Him.
I could go on and on! But thank you for staying with me through all this info. And again thanks for all the prayers.
With love,
Denise

Saturday, May 21st

Praise God for answered prayer!  Denise was able to come home last night!  We didn't even have to use our escape plan!!  I don't know any more information at this point.  I do know that she is still hoping to go to Florida rhe end of next week.  So continue to keep that in your prayers!  If I hear anything else, I'll let you all know!

Thursday, May 19th

Just got back from visiting Denise.  It was so good to see her!  She was feeling a bit better today - Praise the Lord!  She did have a specific prayer request that she wanted me to share with you.  They received a letter from the insurance company saying that they were not going to pay for her TPN (which is the food supplement that she receives for 12 hours every day through her port).  She said the TPN costs about $5000 per week.  Please pray that the insurance will continue to cover this expense.
While we was visiting with her, we were jokingly talking about ways to "break" her out of there.  I am going to try and post a picture that we took of her during one of her attempted escapes.  : ) 
She is praying that she doesn't have to stay in the hospital long....she is really wanting to go home.  I told her we would pray with her on that too!
Note:  to see the picture, scroll all the way to the bottom of the blogs!  (She was trying to fit into my baby's clothes : )  LOL

Update Wednesday, May 18th

The doctors did find a small infection around Denise's port area.  They are giving her antibiotics for that.  She received a blood transfusion and Pastor said that her color was much better today and seem to have a little more energy.  Not sure how long she will have to stay in the hospital because the antibiotic has to be given in her IV.  Praise God that they were able to find the infection and pray that the antibiotic will do it's job!  Thanks for the prayers everyone - keep 'em coming!

Wednesday, May 18th

Denise was admitted to the hospital last night.  She has been having a fever off and on for quite a while.  The doctors are doing tests to see if there is an infection somewhere that is causing the fever.  So far the tests have come back negative.  Pastor said he would call me later if there was any update.  I will pass it along to you as soon as I hear something.  Continue to keep her and her family in your prayers. 

Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance.  Psalm 32:7

Thursday, May 12th

Pastor just called....when I saw that it was him and not Denise I knew something must be up.  Denise went to the doctors today.  Her CA125 count went up over 100 points which means that the cancer has become more active.  The doctor didn't feel that she was healthy enough or strong enough for chemo.  She has had a lot of stomach pain/discomfort.  Pastor said that she isn't even able to eat popsicles without her stomach hurting.  She is quite weak and hasn't had energy or ambition to do anything.  Please continue to keep them in your prayers.  During these times, it is so hard to know what to say or even do.  Makes me so thankful that we serve a God who knows just what we need and just when we need it...... Phil. 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.  Another verse that comes to mind is: Heb 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we
may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. 

Saturday, May7th

Hi Everyone,

     I apologize for my delay on updating the blog.  There has not been any new developments yet.  This coming week will tell us more.  I'll have blood work on Tuesday, and then on Thursday start a new cycle of chemo.  So this is the blood work that will measure the C125 again.  That's always  unnerving for me.  But again the Lord always comforts me. 

In general I've had some good days, but it seems that my energy level was very low, and just when that improved I started with a fever. (That was two days ago) Now the fever is gone, but I woke up early this morning with a terrible cough. It felt like my throat and lungs were being ripped out of my chest.  That has passed, and today I feel pretty good. 

     So I will let you know how things are going after I see my doctor on Thursday.  Meanwhile thank you again for your faithfulness in prayer for me.

With love and appreciation,
Denise

Wednesday, April 27th

Hello,
Praise the Lord for some sunshine and warm weather. I've been taking advantage of the nice weather in between the storms, and was able to get out yesterday and today.  Yesterday I worked a little in the flowerbeds, and today I rode my bike for 3 miles this morning, and walked a half mile this afternoon. It feels so good to be outside in the fresh air.
The adventure of eating hasn't gone very good.  It seems that my bowels would have to start doing something before the eating works. So that will go on the back burner until a later date. 
Keep the prayers coming. I have another treatment tomorrow.

With love, and appreciation,
Denise

Friday, April 22nd

Good afternoon,
As you probably know, I had chemo yesterday, (all went well without any reactions).  The reports are encouraging.  The C125 marker remained the same as three weeks ago, and that's good.  The infected area that you've been praying about remains the same.  It's still red with a white dot in the middle.  However, for now we'll just keep an eye on it. It's not sore, so rather than doing another round of antibiotics right now we'll see what happens.

I am getting a blood transfusion right now, because my red blood cells are very low.  This does not lessen my immunity, it just makes my blood thin, which makes it hard for my blood to clot if I get cut.  It also lessens the amount of oxygen my blood can carry.  This is suppose to leave me tired, but honestly I've felt good!

Current prayer requests is that my bowels will "wake-up" and start functioning normally.  To do that I need to start eating!  (Glory! It's been 10 weeks since I've had a meal!) This doesn't mean I'm healed, so don't quit praying along those lines!
Another request is that I'm going ahead with plans to go Florida at the end of May.  This is exciting because last February I was not sure that I would still be around at this time.  (Praise the Lord.  He is awesome.) 

It's amazing to me how my faith has grown during this process.  It's been a up and down road, and I know there's more to experience, but He has been faithful to be with me and not to burden or put me through more that I could handle.
1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
There were times that I was brought to tears before I would cry out to Him, then when I did He would comfort me with a change of situation, or a solution to the problem, or whatever.  Now, you might say why did He wait until I was reduced to tears. But notice my statement above, "...before I would cry out to Him"!  One of things that I've learned is to have a more consistant and focused prayer life. This has deepened my relationship with my Lord and Savior, Jesus. And that's priceless! 

So please continue with your prayers, I do appreciate your faithfulness.
Love,
Denise

Tuesday, April 19th

Hello everyone,
Praise the Lord for another day!  I am doing good today. I seem to have more energy this morning than I've had in the past week or so.  The infected area is still there, on hold, and not doing much, but it's not sore. Later today I will go for the C125-blood work.  I'm not as nervous as in times past, and I'm sure that is because of your prayers.  Thanks!
This is a neat turn of events - I ran out of my pain medicine due to a slow mail system.  My prescription did not arrive on time for me to be able to change the patch on Sunday as scheduled.  But contrary to times in the past, I did not get any pain on Sunday, and not even until Monday night! And then it was just dull, not the jabbing pain that I expected.  That excited me.  Thanks Lord! 

I won't lie and say this all has been an easy and sweet walk with the Lord.  As time goes on I find myself wondering, even doubting that I will be healed. And of course that can cause some troublesome times.
 However, my heart was touched a few days ago when I read John 12:27,28. Jesus had just entered Jerusalem with all the fanfare of palm branches, and hosannas.  Despite that Jesus said, "Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say?  Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour."  It  struck me that Jesus Himself was troubled, He struggled with what the Father wanted Him to do.  He looked at the week ahead of Him and knew it was going to be hard, and even more so He knew the end of it all.  He was going to face the pain and tiredness and humiliation of the crucifixtion, but mostly He knew that His loving Father was going to turn His back of Him as He hung on that cross dying for our sins. Yet, He said in verse 28, "Father, glorify thy name."    Despite it all His goal, His purpose, was that His Father would get the glory. It also struck me that He knows exactly how I feel. (Hebrews 4:15)  When I think I've had enough, or when I start to get anxious and fearful of what is ahead, He knows. And He knows exactly what I need as  a  human to see me through and comfort me; all because He has experienced it Himself. Thank you Lord!

Thanks for your prayers.  My requests would be that the C125 goes down, that this infected area goes away. That the Lord is glorified.

With much love and appreciation,
Denise

Friday, April 15th

Denise just called from out and about.  She wanted me to let you all know that the situation with the infected area on her side has not changed.  She had put in a call to the doctors and they don't seem overly concerned.  It isn't painful, which is good, but does concern her.  She was having some stomach issues yesterday but she says that they seem a little better today.  Otherwise, she said that she is doing pretty good overall.
On a side note, I would like to ask you to pray for something.  This next week is Pastor and Denise's anniversary.  We are having a fellowhsip at church on Sunday night after the service for them (it's not a surprise).  Please pray that God will give her strength and that she will feel well enough to come out that night. I know that the ladies are going all out on putting this together - even to the point of replicating their wedding cake! Praying that it will be a blessing to them both!

Tuesday, April 12th

Good morning everyone.  Praise the Lord for another day! Rejoice!!  Right now the sun is shining, and that in itself is a miracle for NY!
I am doing well.  The last chemo cession went well, and this is the week that I don't have any.  The infected area is at a stand still. It hasn't changed in the past few days, despite
the fact that I am still on the antibiotic through Wednesday. So please continue to pray about that.  I hope you have a blessed day in the Lord.
With love and appreciation,
Denise

April 8th, Praise & Prayer Request

Good afternoon everyone,
Well, praise the Lord, another chemo session has come and gone, and all went well.  I feel better today than I did after the last treatment.  My concern now is that area that has been infected.  It has improved in that the wide spread redness is gone and the breakthrough pain is minimal. However, there is a red spot about the size of a 50 cent piece right over the sight that is not getting better, and the lump is not going down.  Both of the doctors that have seen it say that most likely it will break through my skin and drain. Yuck!  I don't know if that will lessen the size of the lump or what.  Only time will tell, and only the Lord knows at this point.  So that is where I am at this point, all is well.

As always thanks for your prayers, and love for me.  It's so very much appreciated.

Love, Denise

Wednesday, April 6th

Good Morning,
Well, that area turned out to be infected, but the Lord answered our prayers in that it stayed at bay until the antibiotic was able to subdue it some.  So as of today the redness is going away some, and the pain doesn't break through very often.  I feel much better today as compared to yesterday.  Thank the Lord!  And thanks for all your prayers.  It's been another trial, a small one, but enough of one that I said to the Lord, "Is this really necessary? I mean with everything else..."  Whooooa!  Who am I, as the vessel, to question the Potter?!  But He graciously understands, and simply brought to mind that whole list of trials that Paul experienced in 2 Corinthians 11:22-28.  Praise God for His gentleness! 

Love to all of you,
Have a great day,
Denise

Saturday, April 2nd from Denise

Hello everyone,
Your prayers really lifted me up, even carried me, as I approached Thursday's appointment with my doctor.  Nevertheless,, it was a most challenging day for me, and even Jeff.

Lynn posted the problems I was having going in Thursday which led to tests having to be done, which led to no time to do chemo on Thursday and thus having to go back on Friday.  Well, on Friday the G-tube, again was not draining, and the area where the lump is was very sore again, and I thought it was even red, which would indicate an infection brewing in there.  So Debbie took a look at the G-tube and managed to clear it out again. Now it's been draining good, so praise the Lord for that. She also ordered a CBC blood draw to see if there was an indication of infection.  I have not heard back, so the count must have been OK, but today it's more red; less sore, but red.  Please pray that it's not infected or that it at least stays at bay until business hours next week.

In the wee hours of the morning I was praying, and the Lord brought to mind the story of Gideon. It started with my thoughts that I've gone through a lot of chemo drugs, it makes me wonder how may options do I have left?  Quickly, the Lord reminded me that Gideon went from 32,000 thousand in his army, to 10,000, and then down to 300.  My thoughts settled on that 300, and I wondered how they felt. [If you're not familiar with this story, you can find it in the book of Judges chapters 6-8. It's a remarkable story (prior to today it was a good story, now to me it's remarkable! Let me add that although I call it a story it really is a history lesson, not a fable).] So back to the 300, what did those guys say to one another? It was much easier for them to join in with the 32,000, a little shaky perhaps with the 10,000, but 300, C'mon Man... However they stayed committed despite fears and doubts. And they came out victorious in the end. I consider this chemical I'm doing now my "300" drug. It's called gemsar, and my hope is that it's the one that will get the job done!

Thanks for the prayers, and I'll keep you posted on whether this is an infection or not.
Love, Denise

Friday, April 1st

I will give you an update the best I can.  Denise may update you more when she gets a chance.  She didn't end up having chemo yesterday.  The doctor wanted to find out why her g-tube wasn't draining and why she was having some pain.  They ran some tests and ended up just repositioning her tube and it immediately started draining - Praise the Lord.  As far as the pain, the doctor flushed the other tube and cleaned out around it and it seemed to help some.  Here CA125 levels were down 40 points, which is great.  It is a cancer marker to see how active the cancer is.  She is having chemo this morning at 10:00.  So overall she said that the doctor gave a good report.  She continues to covet your prayers and thanks you for them!

Please pray!

Good morning everyone,
Help! I know you are praying for me today as I see my doctor then have a treatment (by the way my appointment was changed to noon).  I have a bit of a complication that has me concerned.  Yesterday my G-tube quit draining.  This could be for a variety of reasons, but I do have pain in my right side,  that is  very persistent.
Thank you very much.  I'll try to keep you all posted ASAP. 

With love and gratitude,
Denise

An answer to prayer!

Hello Everyone,
I have to thank you for your prayers for peace this week. I already have noticed a difference that is awesome, I just need to share it with you.

Back in 2009 when I was diagnosed with cancer, the Lord gave me a verse that I interpreted as assurance that He was going to heal me. Later, as doubt crept in I lost hope in that verse. That lost of hope is what has caused my apprehension at confronting my doctor.  I believe in answer to your prayers, today I was leafing through Psalms and 119 caught my attention.  I was going to read a section somewhere around verse 65, but had this strong inclination to read under the heading of Zain which starts at verse 49. Wow, this is what I read:
Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope.  Wow! That really put the hope back in my heart.  Now, I'm not saying that I'm all fixed, and never to feel doubt again, but I haven't had any "Doom of Thursday" feelings.  Thanks so very much for sharing my burdens with me, and helping me through all of this!  Praise and glory and honour to our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ!
I love you people.  I sincerely hope that in Heaven you come up to me and let me know that you were one of the hundreds out there who prayed for me, because I want to be able to thank you in person.

It's been awhile since the last update.....

Hello everyone,

I know we haven't update this page since the 15th.  I do apologize. There just wasn't any change in anything.  As they say, "No news is good news!"   I've had one treatment since I had the reaction.  That one went well because I didn't get the drug that caused the reaction.  Now this coming Thursday, the 17th, I will start another cycle.  I'll see Dr. Cunningham first, and we'll talk about the change they'll make in my treatment.  But we've (Pastor and I) heard that they'll go with just the drug called gemsar. 

I have some anxiety about Thursday's appointment.  I always do when meeting with the doctors.  I know that God is in control, and it shouldn't make a difference what news they have, but this is where my faith is being tested the hardest.  I really do feel the strain of the test.  I told a friend awhile ago that it was easier to pray that God have His way with my life at a time when I truly believed that I would be healed.  That was before the most recent surgery, and being told that I had a limited time, and TPN instead of food, etc.  Now I struggle at times, with the thought that His way may not be the way that I thought.  Like I said this is the ultimate test of my faith.  But then Philippians 2:13 comes to mind:

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.  

Praise the Lord that we don't need to pull it together ourselves to do what He has planned for us. Neither do we have to struggle with our "want to" as we're doing His will.  Because it is He that not only helps us to do His will, but also helps us to want to do it.  I remember when the Lord wanted me to work with the deaf.  I couldn't see myself in front of the auditorium signing.  It just wasn't my thing to do anything in front of anyone!  But as I submitted to His request He made me want to do it.  As a result I completely enjoyed those years of interpreting and teaching the deaf in Sunday School.  

So I said all that to ask this: please pray that I don't fret this whole week what my doctor will say, but that I can rest in His love and grace, knowing that He does all things well. And pray that Dr. Cunningham will be moved to do His will with the necessary knowledge.

Thanks again for all your love and prayers.  Please continue!!

Love, 

Denise 

Tuesday, March 15th

Denise wanted to let you know that she is doing alright.  She is having some discomfort in the morning but it seems to go away as the day goes on.  You are welcome to call and visit again.  A reminder to give a call first if you can.  She has chemo on Thursday and prayerfully there will be no surprises this time!  If the Lord leads, maybe drop her a note of encouragement or just a simple card letting her know you're thinking of her.

Friday, March 11th

Pastor just called and told me in detail all the events of yesterday.  I will do my best to relay the information to you!  As yesterday's blog read, Denise went in for her chemo treatment and had a severe reaction from the carboplatin (which is one of the drugs used in her chemo).  Pastor said that it was so scary that he didn't know if Denise was going to survive it.  They gave her the meds to counter the reaction and within an hour she was back to normal (other than being completely out of it because of the drugs they gave her).  Once she was stable the doctor sent them on their way only to call them on the way home to tell them to go to the ER.  Her electrolytes were low, along with her potassium.  Normal potassium levels are 3.6 and Denise's levels were 1.8 and when they get that low it can cause problems with your heart.  So she spent several hours getting fluids and potassium to get her levels back up.  She was able to come home.  He said that she is having some cramping this morning (which is normal for her condition) but that she is alert.  I'm sure she will be taking some naps today!  The doctor told her to plan on having a blood transfusion next week sometime too.  I'll keep you posted on any changes!  Keep on praying!

Thursday, March 10th

Denise went for her chemo treatment this morning and the unexpected happened.  She had a severe reaction to one of the elements of the chemo.  Her blood pressure and pulse shot up and she got red splotches everywhere.  Pastor said it was very scary for awhile.  The doctor was very close to calling an ambulance.  They gave her medication to counter the reaction so she is and will remain "out of it" for a couple days.  Pastor asked that no one call or stop by today or tomorrow.  Pastor said that she should be feeling better by Saturday.   Needless to say, they won't be giving her that same regimen of chemo next week.

A Message From Denise 3/6

Hello everyone,
Thanks for all the prayers concerning the transfusion I had last Thursday. It all went well, and by Saturday I was feeling great, and that has carried over to today. I had an awesome time at church this morning. I feel like David when he wrote, "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord." Psalm 122:1.  It's such a blessing to be able to join brothers and sisters in the Lord to worship and praise Him.  It's never the same when at home, trying to make that connection. 

I had an opportunity Saturday to experience a biblical concept.  Faith was running in the 3K Heart Walk and Run fundraiser.  I woke up Saturday morning only to realize that she had already left, and I hadn't sent her off.  Then this crazy idea  hatched in my head.  If I hurried I could be at the finish line when she crossed. This was truly crazy because I wasn't sure where it was, and with all the rigmarole I need to do in the morning I would be short on time.  But I went for it anyway.  As I was driving towards Utica, I wondered why I was doing this, and the answer clearly rang out in my heart, because I love her.  Simply that. Then I realized that it's this same motivation that makes us serve the Lord.  Because we love Him. Why do we go places that we don't know, (think of all the missionaries).  Because we love Him.  Why do we leave our comfort zones, to do His bidding?  Because of love.  I could go on and on.  The sweet ending was that after many blessings of the Lord just getting there, I did see her.  When she hugged me and said, "Thanks for coming it means so much to me," it was more than worth it.  Just as when the Lord says, "Well done, good and faithful servant" it all becomes worth it.  (By the way, she did great.  I'm so proud of her!)

Thanks again for your prayers.
Love,
Denise

Wednesday, March 2nd

Denise went for some testing today.  It showed that her blood levels were low, so she will have a blood transfusion tomorrow.  She will have it done on an outpatient basis.  She said she feels pretty good otherwise and the transfusion will only help her feel better!  This week is her off week for chemo treatment.  Please continue to keep her and her family in your prayers.

Update from Denise

Hello Everyone!

Praise the Lord for another great day.  I've had several this week where the pain has been under control, and my energy has been "out of control" so to speak. Aww, don't worry, I'm being sensible and haven't been out snowmobiling (though tempted)!

Again I want to thank everyone for their support in prayer, cards, gifts, expressions of encouragement, help...and the list goes on and on. 

One of the blessings was the box of letters you wrote about how the Lord has used me to bless you. I read several and was totally amazed that so many think they know me but really don't!  Some said that they were inspired by my faithfulness to serve the Lord. Yet, I, seeing myself from the inside out, had to admit that there have been times that I've fallen short of being faithful.  So many times I've missed opportunities to do what He requested, and regretted my choice.  I dare say that you, who see me faithful, may in fact be more so than me.  A couple commented on my humility, yet I struggle with pride and at times even haughtiness. Your vision of me brings me to shame. You, in fact, may be more humble than me.

I could go on, but the idea is that I'm not some great Christian that has arrived at some high level of service.
And I don't want any to think that I'm criticising what you wrote.  I do want you to know that you have blessed me by exposing some hidden sins, that I've now brought before the Lord, and He has been faithful to forgive me. 

So, if you're wondering how you could serve God in the midst of your situation, circumstances and trials, just know that He is wanting to use you as you are now, so that He can change you to what He wants you to be. It's easier to train someone while they're doing something, than it is to train them when they're doing nothing.

Now that I've gotten my "confession" out there I can continue to read the rest of the letters. Thank you so much for taking the time to write out your thoughts, and to be such a blessing.

Love
Denise

Thursday, February 24th

Not too much to report but Denise wanted me to let you know that her chemo treatment went well today.  She's having a pretty good day!  The pain isn't too bad. Praise the Lord!!   Her two sisters are here visiting for a couple days so she is enjoying spending time with them.  Thanks to everyone who sent in a note/letter.  I was able to give them to her Tuesday night.  Praying they will be a blessing to her and her family! 

Tuesday, February 22nd

Talked with Denise this morning.  She sounded very tired today.  She said that her pain is moderate at this time and was praying that it would decrease as the day went on.  She has had some busy days, with family and friends visiting.  She has been able to spend quite a bit of time with her grandson, Daniel and enjoys every minute of it.  She is scheduled for another round of chemo this Thursday.  Her two sisters will be visiting with her on Thursday and are planning on going with her.  She is very much looking forward to their visit.  Denise has expressed to me that she would really like to go for a snowmobile ride.  This is something that she loves to do!!  She is praying that this next round of chemo will give her another burst of energy that would allow her to go.  Let's pray together that God would allow her to do this.  I will be taking the letters that everyone wrote to her tonight.  I pray that they will be a blessing to her and her family!

A Note from Denise!!!

Hi everyone,  Yes, this is coming to you "Live from Denise!"  And I must say that it is live from because of the Lord's mercy on me, and because of His faithfulness to answer prayer.  He is AWESOME, and you all are amazing in your faithfulness to lift me and my family to the Lord.  I cannot thank you enough.

As you probably know I had a chemo treatment yesterday.  It went very well.  There is not a lot of outward side effects that are bad.  For me, and this going to sound funny, the outward side effects are great! We have noticed a definite pattern where I am energetic and ready to tackle the world after having a treatment.
Such is the case this week.  All the pain I've experienced Monday - Thursday was gone this morning!  I've been up since 6:00 am, and still no pain. 

Again thank you for your support and love.  Thanks for all the cards and gifts.  Praise the Lord for His faithfulness.  Psalm 27:13.

With love,
Denise

Thursday, February 17th

Just talked with Denise.  She had her chemo treatment today and it went well.  The doctor did tell her that by doing the chemo treatments it may give her a few extra weeks to live beyond what was originally said.  The doctor said that asking for another 2 months was pushing it.  They were praying that the chemo would give her much more time than the doctor said.  Please pray with them on this matter, that God would extend her time even more.  Of course we know that He is the Great Physician and if He chose to, He could heal her at this very moment. 

I am thankful that we can find encouragement in God's Word!
Heb 11:1 ¶ Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Ro 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Tuesday, February 15th

Denise called this morning.  She is having quite a bit of pain on her right side.  She's not sure what is causing it.  The pain patch she is on has not been keeping it under control.  She asks that you pray for the pain to get resolved.  A visiting nurse will be coming over later today and will better be able access things.  She also found out that she is scheduled to have chemo this Thursday.
Denise is up to having calls and visits.  You are welcome to call her or stop by.  If possible, call before you come for a visit.  Please use your common sense as to what times you call and visit her. 
She said to pass along to everyone her appreciation for all the prayers and thoughts.  She said it has been overwhelming.....beyond words.
Also a reminder for those of you who are planning on writing a her a note - I am extending the deadline to this Sunday so that will give you more time.

Answer to Prayer!

Thanks everyone for praying!  They found a nurse and she is coming home today!!!  Praise the Lord!!!

Friday, Feb.11th

Pastor just called with an update and a prayer request.  Denise could come home today if they can find a nurse that can go to their house and show them what needs to be done.  If they cannot find a nurse to do that today, she won't be able to come home until Sunday.  So please pray that they can find a nurse for TODAY!  She is feeling quite well today.  She's been walking the halls at the hospital!  They also have decided that she is going to try a couple rounds of chemo.  I will prayerfully update you later that she is coming home!

Thursday, Feb. 10th

  There isn't too much to update you on today but I know some of you keep checking the blog. I just came back from visiting her (and Pastor.)  When we got there, pastor was "in training" on how to take care of the tubing. She was in some discomfort but the doctors goal is to make her pain free.  She is currently on a pain patch and they will increase the strength as necessary.  She is hoping to come home tomorrow.  They are trying to get everything set up for her to come home.  She is very much looking forward to getting out of that hospital, although she said that the food hasn't been too bad! 
Please pray that she will get to come home tomorrow.  Continue to pray for them and their children.

A Way to be a Blessing

In these kind of situations, everyone wants to do something but you never quite know what to do.  I had prayed about what we could do to be a blessing to Denise during this time.  God gave me an idea and I'd like to share it with you.  Denise is always about being used of God and glorifying God.....if God has used Denise in a special way in your life, then write her a letter/note saying just that.   Don't make it about how great she is (even though we all know she is : ) but center it around the Lord and how God used her in your life. I think that this would be a huge blessing to her and I know without a doubt that she will praise God for it all.  I would like to compile these letters and give them to her all at once.  If you would like to take part in this, please give me (Lynn Stemp) your letters/notes by February 16th.  If you don't live in the area and would like to e-mail me your letter, I can print it out. (lstemp@twcny.rr.com)  I know this is a short notice but I want to make sure that she is feeling well enough to read each one.
Also, another note, I meant to let you know that she is in Crouse Hospital in Syracuse for those who are planning on visiting her.

Wednesday, Feb. 9th

Pastor just called with an update on Denise.  She should be able to come home from the hospital either Friday or Saturday.  They have decided that she will come home with the pic line (for the nutritional supplement) and the drainage tube from her stomach.  The pic line will have to be hooked up on a 12 hour cycle, so she will do that during the nighttime hours.  The drainage tube from her stomach only has to be hooked up for 1 hour a day.  This will allow her to continue to be mobile when she is feeling up to it. Because of this, a nurse will be coming to their house as needed to take care of the pic line and drainage tube.
If anyone would like to visit her at the hospital tomorrow, they said you are welcome to visit but PLEASE keep it short.  Please don't be offended if she asks you to leave, as she gets very tired and needs to rest.

February 8, 2011

Pastor asked if I would start a blog to keep everyone up to date on how Denise is doing.    As you know, she had surgery yesterday.  The doctor was hoping to remove the section of her intestines where the blockage was.  When the doctor opened her up, she saw that the cancer was basically eating her intestines and they are dying.  In which case, there was nothing that could be done.  She was told that she has a few weeks to a few months.  She currently has a drainage tube in her stomach and a pic line in which she can receive a food supplement.  There are some choices that they have to make.   She can come home with nothing or she can come home with both the pic line and drainage tube.  The doctor said that she could do chemo and that may give her a little more time.  The problem with that is without sufficient food intake, the chemo would make her very sick.  Please pray for them as they make these difficult decisions.  Pastor and his family are asking that people don't smother them. Please do not vist or call their house or cell phones until further notice.  If you have any questions, you may call the church office.
He says that God has given them a peace in the whole matter.  The best thing we can do as a church family is to covet them in our prayers or send a card or note.  Pastor knows that we are there for him.