Friendship Archives - Amelia McNeilly

Articles, Blog Series, Christian Living, Disability, Friendship, Music

In the Time That You Gave Me

Over the past two years, especially the last year, I have been reminded how precious life is. Being sick with a chronic infection that can be terminal can change ones perspective. It makes each moment matter. It makes you live and love the life and people God has blessed you with that much harder.

It also makes you cling to Jesus in a deeper way than ever before. Ever since I have been young I have desired to live for Jesus and put Him first above all else. As different areas of my life occurred I have experienced the Lord in deep ways, but nothing like the past few months. When it seems like all you have has been stripped away, you can fully focus on Jesus with no distractions. It has made me see Jesus in a different way — really see Him, and in the hard of the past couple of weeks that has been such an encouragement to me.

My emotions have been all over the place lately because in the last two weeks pI began hospice care in my home, and then was transported to Mercy Hospital for what we thought was a bowel obstruction. While I am thankful for Hospice, and the wonderful care they provide, it still makes me sad that I am now a candidate for their services. The hope is that I can be released, and won’t need them after a few months. I do not know what the future looks like healthwise for me at the moment but I will share what I do know. I apologize for the lengthy explanation but I value your prayers and encouragement. I’ve had a lot of questions about what is going on so I wanted to share it with you. I know it can be confusing getting little updates here and there so I hope these makes sense.

I have a chronic bladder infection that is not curable due to the nature of my bladder from Cerebral Palsy, but the antibiotics I am taking are working well at keeping it down. However, I am to stop this treatment in one month and then re-evaluate treatment options then. Also, there is a chance that these antibiotics will stop working before then. The main goal is to keep it from going sepsis again and for me to have a better quality of life. Bladder infections can change extremely fast so while today it may be holding its own I could wake tomorrow needing to go to the ER. Sadly, we have exhausted a lot of treatment options already and another surgery is not likely. I see my urologist in October but I’m praying he has a cancellation before then. Many of you have asked about me receiving second opinions, and I have but due to the specifics of my case Dr. K in Charlotte is the one most qualified in the state to help me. There are other places out of state that I could try but my insurance doesn’t cover out of state medical care. Although even if I could get a consultation out of state, they would most likely come up with the same conclusion.
Also, we know that just like my bladder I have a lazy bowel which is why I had my colon removed in 2015. Once that got under control my bladder problems started to worsen and now I’m having issues again with my bowel. I spent almost five days in the hospital last week treating my bowel issues. Initially, the radiologist said I had an obstruction and ileus but Dr. Dobson said it was my neurogenic bowel being sluggish and not moving properly. Even my digestive system is a bit sluggish but since things are backing up that is causing a lot of fluid retention. Thankfully things are working better since the hospital, but there is no easy fix and these flare ups could happen more and more. I am going to see my gastroenterologist in Charlotte at the beginning of June so I am praying and hoping he has suggestions on how to best maintain things and keep them from getting even worse. I am retaining a lot of fluid which is very uncomfortable. I’ve been on medicine for that but it is not working as well as we would like it to. I have spasticity from CP and that makes my muscles tight and now that is worse because of. the fluid. All that together makes walking and moving extremely difficult for me and when I do move I require lots of help due the muscle issues and being weak. I have gained so much weight from the fluid and also cannot wear a lot of my clothes anymore. But like my doctors and parents remind me, this is out of my control and I’m doing the best I can.

Unfortunately there are no easy fixes for any of it, and it has been terminal before and unless a miracle happens it will be terminal again. We just don’t know how soon. It could be weeks, months, or years, but that is for God to decide. No matter what doctors say, God is the decision maker and I will not leave earth before it is my time. Life can change in the blink of an eye which makes me desire and pray for those who do not know Jesus as their Savior and Lord. It hurts my heart to think of all the good people in this world who will not go to Heaven when they pass away.

So much joy is missed if you don’t know the Lord. The more suffering I experience I can’t imagine going through these same trials without God. Without God I think I would have given up long ago and become bitter. Thankfully though, God has carried me through everything.

On to a more cheerful note, if you know me well then you know that I have a deep love for music. For every season I’ve gone through I have at least two songs that represent life during that time. When I hear a song where the lyrics could have been taken from my journal, I immediately thank God for that glimmer of hope. Not to sound sappy, but God truly does know the way to my heart. It may be just another simple song to some, but to me it is the encouragement God is giving me that day.

Lately, my music of choice has been Joey and Rory, MercyMe, and Ellie Holcomb. However, mainly I play Joey and Rory’s and Ellie’s albums over and over along with MercyMe’s latest single, “Even If” (thanks to one of my dearest friends Casey Rumswinkel for first introducing me to that song and to Sara for gifting Ellie’s album to me. These sweet girlfriends of mine know me well).

A few months ago Casey texted me a link to it and said “You need to listen to this.” For whatever reason I did not listen then, but a few days later I remembered and listened. The message hit me in the deepest area of my heart. Similarly during that same time, I heard the song “You Love Me Best” by Ellie and oh my word it made me cry all kinds of tears.

God knows me in the deepest of ways and He does love me best. Nothing can lift one out of the pit better than God showing them evidence that He truly sees them. What a gift it is to be known in that way.

Another one of my favorite tunes right now is by Joey and Rory from their “Hymns That are Important to Us” album. This is the song that inspired the blogpost for today. When recording the album Joey was battling cancer that took her life soon after the album was released. Her dream before dying was to complete the Hymns album, and every song on it is beautiful. One song in particular that has become a favorite is called “In the Time that you Gave Me.” This has become one of my theme songs for this season, and for life in general. The meaning of this song has taken me to another level of appreciation considering my circumstances. The lyrics talk about the hope of living and loving life in the time we are given on earth. Its simple and realistic message reminds us to live for the Lord now, and make the most of each day He gives us. We are not promised tomorrow so that is why it is important to love Jesus and live well now. No one is perfect but if we strive to live for Him, God will use us and be glorified.

For me that is my only goal and desire — to love Jesus above all else and to serve Him well in the time He gives me.

I will leave you with one of my favorite lines from the song. Also, click the videos below to hear the songs that have been mentioned here.

Articles, Christian Living, Devotionals, Friendship, The View Looks Fine From Here

Compare No More

“Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.” ~Proverbs 4:23

The snare of compare. I think it’s easy to say that at some point in our life we all have been guilty of comparing ourselves with others especially when life is not going our way. I know for me as I’ve been home and bed bound, I have to guard what goes into my mind even more so. For example, I limit my time on Facebook and Instagram. By nature I am a social person and enjoy visiting friends and traveling, and I would love to be able to go on vacation this summer because I have not been on one in years. However, due to my finances and sickness, it probably won’t happen for a while. In my weaker moments when I see pictures of people vacationing with wonderful scenery and good food, I have to check my heart because my flesh is envious. Sometimes I think, “God, why can’t I do something fun and relaxing like that. ” For you, you may be trying to conceive but God has still not allowed you to be pregnant, and if you see one more pregnancy announcement on Facebook you might explode. Or for you single ladies (me included), you’ve waited and prayed for a Godly spouse and are in your 30s with no prospects, but you witness wedding after wedding and attend engagement parties while feeling a bit sad or jealous on the inside. Also, after working hard in your job, the desired promotion was given to someone else, and your house does not meet the expectations of Joanna Gaines. Every time you see Fixer Upper you become discontent with the house God has provided because it is not big or fancy enough.

As you are reading this, I’m sure you could add many more examples to the list but these are the ones I first thought of. I have had many talks with my girlfriends about this very topic so I know these are real struggles for folks. Having these desires and goals are not bad. In fact, God delights in each of these desires, and we should rejoice with our loved ones and friends when God blesses them in these areas. However, the problem comes in when you allow your situation or trial to consume and overwhelm you. In turn this allows discontentment, jealousy, worry, and anger to take root and what flows out of your heart from them is not pleasing to the Lord. The sinful actions that come from these emotions are not from God.

Over the years I have learned that what you think is the perfect life is not. Social media makes it super easy to paint a picture of the ideal life. Design apps make it easy for our pictures to look perfect. All we need to do is choose the right filter, but in reality everyone has struggles. We may see the pictures on a Facebook or Instagram, but we don’t see the life that happened before and after the picture was taken. I can assure you that the grass is not always greener on the other side.

Because I’ve been physically sick for so long, and limited in my location — in order to keep contentment and peace of mind and heart, I am very selective in what I read, watch, or listen to. If anything I do reminds me what my life is lacking and stirs up discontent then I don’t need to do it. Right now life is hard enough without adding discontentment and bitterness in the mix. My days can be long and limited but constantly dwelling on things I want but do not have, and living in the land of what-ifs is not helpful or glorifying to God. When I start feeling this way I read the Word and pray which helps my perspective and allows joy to flow out of the heart. Just like the verse mentioned above from Proverbs 4:23 states, “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.”

So compare no more and live in peace with the life and gifts God has blessed you with. Share those gifts with others and see how the Lord is glorified when the focus is off of self! I’m cheering you on. Have a great week!

Family, Friendship

No Man Is An Island

I think one of the things God uses for encouragement to someone going through any type of trial is surrounding them with friends who lift them up when they are weak and loving them right where they are. We see community played out in the Bible, most importantly through the trinity – God, Jesus His Son, and the Holy Spirit. That should be the foundation of any relationship we have. Communion with God should be first above all else which allows the Holy Spirit to guide us throughout our days. Loving Christ well helps us love others well, and gives wisdom in how to best love the suffering.

The best type of friend to someone suffering is one who just shows up. It doesn’t take fancy offerings or a formal visit. Those are appreciated and kind, but most of the time the person needs their friend to just be with them in whatever way that looks like at the moment. Whether it’s a phone call, a visit, or someone who brings a meal so the caregivers don’t have to cook — these are practical ways to help in the day to day.

No matter how I feel company always lifts my spirits as well as my parents who are my care givers. As my mom tells people you don’t have to call or plan ahead, just come by when you have a free moment. My parents are suffering as much as me and need just as much encouragement and prayers as I do. Outside of work they spend most of their time with me which proves the point that no man is an island.

Our trials have a tremendous effect on those around us whether we like it or not. So many times we let pride take root and think that we don’t need other people, and that is not true. There are some weeks I don’t see outside of my bedroom so conversations and any connection to the outside world is needed. I treasure my phone calls, FaceTime chats, and visits from my friends. They keep me sane. Even though most of my close friends don’t live nearby I’m thankful to talk with them daily which provides me with my own sense of community. It may not be how others experience community but this works the best during this season. I’m continually grateful to have friends who encourage and constantly pray for me. I have a small group of friends that have been with me through thick and thin and no matter the circumstances they are always there for me. We have prayed together, cried together, and laughed together. The last few weeks I have been too sick to talk on the phone most days and some days texts and audio messages are all I’m able to do but my friends are always gracious and understanding. Friendship is a gift from God and I’m grateful for the friends He has surrounded me with.

Also, just because someone is suffering doesn’t mean their friendship with others should be halted, or only focused on the one experiencing the trial. Often times friends think they can’t share what is going on in their life because they think what they are going through is not as crucial and they do not want to be a bother. I’ve seen this played out so many times. I can understand why they might feel that way, but for me personally that is not true. Yes, I am sick right now and yes I need my friends. However, life goes on and I’m not the only one who is struggling. It is not all about me, and friendship goes both ways. I want my friends to share their life with me as they always have and want that aspect of our friendship to stay the same. Instead of growing friends apart, if handled correctly, trials can grow friends even closer. Some of the sweetest times of my week are hearing what is going on in my friends lives –hearing funny stories/seeing pictures about their kids, or about the vacation they took, or the new job they just started, and how I can pray for them, just to name a few. I’m not able to go out and experience life with my friends but I love it when they send pictures or videos from the day to day in their life because in a small way it makes me feel like I’m there. Last October when my best friend Sara got married I was too sick to come to the wedding so they FaceTimed me in. Of course I would have rather been there in person but that was the next best thing, and I’m so thankful to Sara and George for being intentional to make that happen.

For all who are reading this I don’t know what you are experiencing or what your loved ones may be going through but you are not alone. If you are going through a trial do not be afraid to share. By sharing you open up the door to not only be encouraged but also an encourager to someone going through the same thing. If you know someone who is experiencing suffering right now ask God how you might can encourage them. Whether it’s a person struggling with a disability/chronic illness, an elderly neighbor, a young mom, or care givers of the sick, ask the Lord how you can practically encourage them in their time of need. One of the best ways to get through a hard week is to spend time praying for and encouraging others because it takes your mind off of yourself. I have found that serving others for Jesus is the best balm for a weary soul and a broken heart. I pray that whatever season God has you in that you are able to not only find comfort in His love but that you comfort others.

Articles, Christian Living, Devotionals, Disability, Family, Friendship, The View Looks Fine From Here

Hospice, Hospital beds, Oxygen, and Super Heroes Oh My!

Hospice, Hospital beds, lift chairs, oxygen, and super heroes oh my! I titled my post that because the past few weeks have been crazy with so much happening healthwise. My once cute room is now filled with multiple medical supplies. I laugh just thinking about what might be brought in next. Haha! When my friend Kristin visited a few weeks ago she brought super hero decorations and decorated my equipment. It was fitting because lately I have needed an extra dose of super hero power in my days. It is hilarious and I love it.

On to other health news, for months many of you have prayed for the Lord to provide a miracle and to allow there to be a cancellation with Dr Kinnelly in Charlotte so I could see him before October. God heard your prayers and he had some last minute cancellations recently, and I was so happy to receive that telephone call. However, the end result was not what we wanted to hear, but I was also not surprised. It is a long story but Dr. K was not respectful of my time or the suffering that I’ve experienced. His bedside manner is not the best but he is brilliant. I was in his office for three hours and by the end was exhausted. Basically he had not reviewed any of my files and had no idea what was going on. At first he tried to say my problems might not be infection related. But when he finally realized the true facts of my condition he said that unfortunately nothing else could be done except for what we were already doing.

The root of my problem is that my bladder cannot fully empty which in turn causes chronic infections. Also, because I have a neurogenic bladder from CP, it continues to get more sluggish over time. Due to the bladder surgeries I have had earlier in life nothing else can be done surgically for this either. Therefore, I will continue to treat these infections until they can’t be treated anymore under the guidance of my infectious disease doctor and hospice. Fast forward a few weeks to now.

The week before last I felt a flare up with my bladder starting. However, because of being on antibiotics continually the test came back with a false reading. The result was negative and I was hoping it would stay away for a while but it didn’t. Days later I ended up in the ER. critically ill with a kidney infection that went sepsis so I spent a few days in the hospital. Had I not went in when I did, I would not have made it through the night. I will forever be thankful for the room full of nurses and doctors frantically working with me trying to get me in stable condition. Praise Jesus the treatments they gave me has attacked the infection and has worked the best of any medications I have had recently. I came home now and still on some powerful antibiotics which seem to be working. Unfortunately the meds I’m on are making me extremely nauseous. The side effects are brutal and even worse because of how weak I am, but worth if it keeps the infection under control. I have also been referred to another ID doctor in Charlotte. I had the opportunity to Skype with him recently and was very impressed. There is no cure for my situation but he seemed hopeful about possible treatments to keep infections down for longer periods of time. My appointment with him is on August 9th so my prayer is that I can hold my own and not have to go to the hospital again before then.

Overall, my prognosis can be discouraging at times, but I am grateful to know the facts and that we are doing everything that can possibly be done to help me.. We are all on the same page with things and I am glad for that. That is what I’ve been praying for. I am a realist and like to know the truth of the matter even if it is not what I want to hear.

If I dwell on my situation too much, it can be scary with so much uncertainty for my future and health. But my hope is in Jesus and no matter what doctors say, or how bad the infection may be, God is greater than all of that. As Amy Carmichael says, “In acceptance lieth peace.” Accepting circumstances is not giving up. It is being content with Jesus wherever He has you. Acceptance brings peace.“[clickToTweet tweet=”Accepting circumstances is not giving up. It is being content with Jesus wherever He has you. Acceptance brings peace.” quote=”Accepting circumstances is not giving up. It is being content with Jesus wherever He has us. Acceptance brings peace.”]”

God and I have had 32 years together and He has never let me down and has brought me through the fire so many times. This week God keeps bringing Lamentations 3:22-23 to mind. It states, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” [clickToTweet tweet=”Because of God’s compassion and faithfulness , our suffering does not have to consume us because His love never fails” quote=”Because of God’s compassion and faithfulness , our suffering does not have to consume us because His love never fails”].

In the midst of hard days, God has also provided some amazing encouragement through the people in my life. In addition to the hospice nurses and therapists, over the past few weeks I have had wonderful company from friends and family from both near and far. Not everyone in what I call my inner circle – lives nearby but my people have shown up and I have the best community of friends a girl could ask for. My favorite part of the last few weeks has been the quality time I’ve spent with friends, especially friends I don’t get to see often because of where they live. There is nothing sweeter than visiting with best friends and loved ones. I’m so humbled and blessed by the people God has put in my life over the years and these sweet friends of mine ( you know who you are) have been with me through thick and thin. Thanks to everyone for the visits, calls, notes, gifts, and most importantly thank you for all the prayers. I’m so grateful for the mighty group of prayer warriors who daily lift me up to the Father, and for holding me up when I’m weak. I am forever thankful to each one of you. Your prayers and support gives me strength to press on, and a reason to hope a little more with each day that comes.. I love you all and hope you are enjoying your summer holiday. My prayer for you this weekend is that you would spend time at the feet of Jesus and find rest for your souls.

Articles, Christian Living, Devotionals, Disability, Family, Friendship, Holidays

Health Update – Hope a Little More Part 3

As I lay here in my bed not able to sleep I’m thinking about how crazy things have been. The last week or so has been a whirlwind to say the least. If you have been following my journey you know that I’ve been sick for the past year but these last few weeks have taken things to a whole new level.

First, I was transferred to Hospice care, but that is a Godsend and I’m so thankful for their services. We then spent time introducing me to the program and adjusting my meds/care as needed. Unfortunately during this process I began having more pain, nausea, and my fluid retention had worsened. When the nurse examined me on Thursday we thought my system was reacting to the new medication plan so we decided to move me to Hospice House for a few days in hopes of making me more comfortable. Though in the end it was decided that going to the ER was the best choice. After some tests, Shelby transferred me to Dr. Dobson in Charlotte due to what they thought was a bowel obstruction. Although, on further observation from Dobson, it was a sluggish bowel/chronic ileus instead. My bowel, bladder, and digestive system have always been lazy due to my Cerebral Palsy and as I get older all these areas have worsened which is the cause of the majority of medical problems I am experiencing.

In the past few months I have dealt with a lot of fluid retention, but my physicians have been unsure of the cause. However, when Dr. Dobson examined my case he said my fluid was from my system being sluggish, which made things back up. For the first four days of being hospitalized I was on a no fluid/drink regiment. Thankfully, that helped things move along better and I’m now able to tolerate solids. Although I am still experiencing pain and nausea, that is something I will continue to have from time to time. I will forever have G.I. issues and these flare ups could happen more often, but all we can do is manage the symptoms in the best way possible.

I do not expect a cure all at this point but it is very discouraging to hear that nothing can be done except what we have already been doing. This comes from the doctor who is always so optimistic and a doer. When I was in the hospital for six weeks a couple of years ago he never gave a negative prognosis even when things were terminal, which means there really is “no easy fix,” for this as Dobson stated.

Thanks be to God though that resting my system for almost a week and getting iv meds and fluids have helped. Now,mmpi pray things can be maintained with the meds I have been given. I am supposed to follow up with my G.I. doctor soon to see if he has any further recommendations.

On a brighter note, God has been giving me little gems of encouragement each day. He continues to remind me that He knows and sees me. One of those occurrences happened last Thursday. In the ambulance being transported from a Shelby to Charlotte, I prayed for God to give me an understanding and compassionate nurse — specifically a nurse I knew from previous stays at CMC-Mercy named Maime. I knew that probably wouldn’t happen because I did not know if she still worked there plus this was a large hospital with many nurses/doctors. However, after arriving and taken to my room, guess who walked in to be my nurse?? Maime. Tears filled my eyes and I immediately sent thanks and praise to Jesus, and told Maime she was an answer to prayer — literally. That was the evidence my heart needed to confirm I was where I was supposed to be and that God saw and understood me in my circumstances.

During my hospital stay lots of visitors came which no matter how bad I felt brought encouragement. Just having some of my close friends and family laughing and talking around me ministered to my soul deeply. I love being around people and even though I wasn’t able to talk much on certain days or if I fell asleep while you were there (Sorry Becky…ha!)! Also, God displayed His love to me yet again through my parents. The entire time I was there, one if not both of them were with me, and one always stayed at night. Their love and sacrifice in caring for me on a daily basis is humbling and I cannot ever thank them enough. Love you mom and dad! Y’all are my favorites and I’m so glad God gave me you as parents.

Having health issues is hard, but God has surrounded me with the right medical staff at the hospital and now at home through my Hospice nurses Jodie and Jill. I have not known them for long but they have stepped in so gracefully to do what needed to be done. The month of April and the beginning of May have been extra hard because it seemed we had hit a dead end wall, but the Lord carried me through and provided the help I needed and did so in ways I did not expect.

I want to encourage you that no matter how hard life can be God will give strength you did not know you were capable of . One of my favorite verses has always been Nehemiah 8:10 which states, “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” This is a verse that I’ve often used and heard over the years, but take forgranted its meaning. However, lately God has reminded me that no matter how bad my day is or how sick I feel, I have no reason to wallow in my grief and despair.

Instead of grieving, we need to surrender each moment to the Lord and He will always give us the strength to face whatever is in front of us, and His joy will shine through.

That same joy is also how God allows me to “hope a little more” with each day that comes my way.

Thanks again for all of your prayers and encouragement. I will be posting more as I feel like it in the next week. I hope you all enjoy the Memorial Day weekend and that God gives you the refreshment you need.

Articles, Christian Living, Disability, Family, Friendship, The View Looks Fine From Here, Uncategorized

Hope a Little More Part 2

In 2014, I wrote a post titled “Hope a Little More,” and now almost three years later it seems appropriate again. I wrote that post prior to a major surgery after finding out my colon had shut down. I honestly had no idea what to expect in the future. Fast forward two years later and I am finding myself in the same boat, but instead of my colon it is now my bladder that is causing me to have so many problems. I have been on antibiotics for almost a year now continually, and my infection went sepsis a month ago, and I am now on super strong treatments over the next couple of months.

On Monday, I went to Charlotte to see Dr. K’s (urologist) physicians assistant. Usually my time with her is not very productive and Monday’s visit was much of the same. However, she did tell me that she thought my options surgically were limited and that even if I had surgery that my quality of life from these infections would not improve. She also mentioned two other small options for treatment but those may not work either and I would have to wait for final decisions from Dr. K. Unfortunately, I am not scheduled to see him until October and no matter how many times I have tried they will not move up the appointment date.

The conclusion for now is that nothing else can really be done except to treat the infection until it cannot be treated anymore. The PA wants me to stay on my treatment plan with the Infectious Disease doctor and do what he says until I see Dr. K in October. Even though I knew this was most likely the case going in, and is something my parents and I have discussed many times, it is still hard to hear. No matter how prepared you are, no one wants to hear that nothing else can be done.

Currently, I am on an antibiotic treatment for two more months and then we will figure out the next treatment plan after that. Hopefully the one I am on now will continue to work well for the duration of the time I am on it, but it may not. The only thing we can do is keep doing what we are doing and pray, pray, pray! The main goal right now is to keep it from going sepsis again.

I am a planner by nature and I like to have a plan and timeline, but I have no idea how long we can make the treatments work or when the infection will get bad again. I have been reminded this week more than ever that I’m not the one in charge of my life, plans, or desires, but Jesus is. He alone knows what my future holds and my trust in Him is being pushed to another level. My dear friend Kristin texted earlier this week and said that I was going to get to know God in a unique and new way through this. She also mentioned that this is the type of surrender and trust that can only come from a situation like this –the kind we can only get when situations are completely forced out of our hands. She is right, and even though this week has been hard, God has continued to carry and give me hope with each new day.

One passage that has comforted me lately is Psalm 27:13-14 which states,

“I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would have seen the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord;Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord.”

Moving forward I am going to find the good in each day and enjoy the little things God brings my way. I will also allow His courage to carry me, and most importantly,

I will not lose hope because of Jesus. He is HOPE, and it my privilege to serve Him all of my days.

As one of my favorite songs from “For King and Country” says,

“I will dance a little, laugh a little, and hope a little more.”

Thanks to everyone one for your continued prayers. Pray that the doctors have wisdom for future treatments and that this current round of treatment continues to work. Pray for my parents as they continue to care for me. I know it’s not easy for them!either so please pray for their encouragement. Also, pray that that we have peace beyond our understanding no matter the outcome, and that we are able to “hope a little more” each day. Thanks so much.

Articles, Christian Living, Devotionals, Family, Friendship, The View Looks Fine From Here

Thursday Praises!

Hello friends. I have had a busier week than normal for me the past few days and even though I’m exhausted and weak, I have a thankful heart.

I had a wonderful Easter with family and have been strong enough to be out of bed for small amounts of time this week. I still have a long road ahead but I’m thankful for a treatment plan that is working more than the others have, and for friends and family who make my days easier. Today I had a visit from one of my best friends Casey and her adorable son Malakai. We have not got to see each other much lately but I’m so glad today worked out. I was also able to talk with another close friend Erin which always encourages my soul. Sweet kiddos and good conversations with friends always makes me feel better.

One of my favorite Bible passages is found in 1 Thessalonians 3:16-18. It states,

“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

My mind keeps coming back to the last verse where it mentions “in everything give thanks.” That does not mean for when things are going the way we planned or when we consider life is good. No, it truly means in all things. With Easter being this past weekend, I was reminded once again of the beauty and truth of the Gospel. Even though my life is hard and some days I don’t see outside my bedroom, God is still good and He is flooding my heart with things I have to be thankful for. So today I praise Him for a little progress and the simple things that have brought joy today. Earlier as I was thinking on these things, peace came over me and my perspective got a little brighter. Being thankful can make your day better even if circumstances do not change. Spend some time thinking over your week and thank God for the things He has blessed you with.

Fill your heart and mind with thanksgiving and joy you did not think was possible will come.

Sweet Malakai

Articles, Devotionals, Disability, Family, Friendship, Holidays

2016 in Review – Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! 🎄🎄🎄

If I had one word to sum up 2016, I would say hard. This year I had high hopes that my health would be restored but things have not worked out that way. However, things have happened exactly as they were supposed too. One quote describes exactly how I feel. Kelli Stuart states, There is a lot of evil in the world but there is also a lot of good, so let’s focus on the good. In 2016, I have seen a lot of good in the midst of hard. When I’m feeling down I remind myself of the good God has done. His grace is sufficient. I do not know what my future holds, or if my prayers will be answered in the way I think they should be. Although, I do know God will give me His strength to press on. Since being sick, I have begun to view life in a different way.

Life is short and none of us know what is ahead so instead of spending our days weary, bitter, or worried, we should be obedient to Jesus and live everyday to the fullest. Also, we need to live each day offering love and forgiveness to those around us. His yoke is easy and His burden is light, and we need to accept the peace that Jesus longs to give us.

I have started writing a list of what I call “Daily Joys.” Each day I write about the joys of my day and this helps me fight the battle of discouragement. I plan to chronicle my daily joys throughout 2017, and I hope you will do the same. You will be surprised how much cheer this exercise brings to a difficult day. Below are a few of my “Daily Joys,” and the good I have found in this year.

– My Salvation – My relationship with Jesus makes life worth living, He is my Savior and the Lover of my Soul.

-God has literally walked my family and I through fires and have helped us stand firm in the midst of difficult circumstances.

– Grace upon grace. Jesus revealed this to me in the deepest ways this year. One of my favorite songs says, “your grace abounds in deepest waters.” That is so true, and such a gift. This year when I’ve felt like everything was caving around me, Jesus always rescued me.

– Wondeful home health and Palliative nurses – This group of ladies bless and encourage me daily. All of my nurses and my palliative care physician have gone above and beyond what is expected in their care for me this year. I love each of you. Thanks for serving me so well and fighting for me!

– Everything has been stripped away. My health, job, finances, etc. While this may not sound good at first, it is. It is good because it has allowed me to lean on Jesus more than ever before, and I’ve seen a Him show up in amazing ways. He always provides.

– My Family – My parents have always been my best friends but during this trial we have gotten even closer. They take such good care of me, and I’ve treasured the extra moments we’ve had together. Also, I’m thankful for the extra time I get to spend with my extended family. My Gran stays with me two days a week to help out and my aunt and cousin Lexi visit me every Saturday. I’m so grateful for the extra time spent with them. They truly bring goodness and joy to my days.

– My Friends – When you experience trials, it shows you who are your true friends are. While most of my best friends aren’t local, they have encouraged me this year, and God has used them to bless me tremendously. They are my prayer warriors, encouragers, and counselors. I know I can always count o these ladies. They hold me up and are my tribe.

– My dogs Coco and Lucy – Animals are a gift from the Lord and they bring me so much joy each day. I thank God for them.

As you go throughout this Christmas week, take some time to reflect and thank God for the good He has given you this year.

Also, stay tuned to my blog as I have some new blog series that I will be announcing in the new year. In the meantime though I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I will see you in 2017!

Articles, Christian Living, Daily Inspirations, Disability, Family, Friendship, Holidays

Thank You

Hi friends,

It has been a while since I have posted but I wanted to write a quick update regarding my health. The past few weeks have been extremely difficult. I have dealt with another bladder infection which is a very stubborn bacteria. I finished a round of iv antibiotic treatment one week ago, and unfortunately I think the infection is already returning. I will have another test tomorrow to confirm that and will hopefullly start another round of treatments. Please pray that the bacteria will show up clearly, that I will be put on the right antibiotic ASAP, and that we are given wisdom and the right resources moving forward regarding treatment options. The infection is still lingering, and I’m hoping to get started on medication again soon. Also, pray for me over Thanksgiving that I am able to enjoy time with family without being in pain, and that I keep the right attitude in the midst of hard.

Thank you all so much for the continued prayers and sweet notes you send my way. Even though I am not always able to respond I do read them all, and I am greatly encouraged by them. I am so thankful for each one of you and thank God for you daily!

Be sure to check the blog again tomorrow as I will start a series called “In Everything Give Thanks.” I look forward to sharing more with you. 🙂

Articles, Christian Living, Disability, Family, Friendship

Update from Amelia 💛

Hi friends! Thank you all so much for your prayers over the past few weeks.

My surgery went well. My intestines were kinked together and pressing against my abdominal wall, but Dr. Dobson was able to fix the problem without complications — Praise the Lord!

I am currently home and recovering. I saw Dr. Dobson again this past week and he is hopeful that things will continue to improve. However, I am still extremely weak so prayers for strength, energy, and stamina would be greatly appreciated. I have therapy exercises that I am doing, and am now able to get in the pool so that is helpful. Also, I have a wonderful home health nurse visiting me weekly which is super helpful and encouraging, and I also receive palliative care services. I recently received a hospital bed from palliative which has helped me rest so much better at home. I am deeply grateful for all of these healthcare professionals who make my recovery easier, and who help to ease my pain. They are such a huge blessing to me and my family. The Lord has been so good to me and I’m thankful for the strength He gives me daily to press on!

Thank you all for your continued prayers and support. It means so much to me. I am daily inspired by your calls, notes, and visits. I am still home bound and unable to be out and about but I love having phone calls and company for those who live nearby. Give me a call sometime or stop by for a visit. I would love to hear from you and know how you are doing. I am so thankful for all of you! Please let me know how I can pray for you as well!

I hope you all are enjoying the weekend and this warm weather! Summer is here! 😊