Walking through M.D. Anderson today was both challenging and inspiring. Although I didn’t feel prepared for what I was about to see, the experience moved me. I saw both suffering and hope. I saw strength and weakness. For the first time I realized that things were about to completely change for my family. So far Andrew appears healthy and strong. You really wouldn’t know he had cancer if you saw him walking down the street. Up until today I didn’t consider how hard it would be to see my husband suffer. Watching the spouses today walk through the halls with their sick loved ones made me realize that I was about to learn a whole new level of strength and courage that I wasn‘t even sure I possessed.
I left the doctor’s office with a sense of hope and also the realization that this battle could possibly be brutal. On the car drive home, Andrew and I had the best conversation. There is something about going through tragedy that bring about the real conversations we all should be having with our loved ones. For some reason both Andrew and I have a complete peace about however this battle ends. Knowing Andrew is going to give it his all to fight. We are forced to have authentic conversations about what life will be like if Andrew passes away. The conversations aren’t easy, but in the moment we speak the most beautiful words to each other that are completely pure and genuine. In these moments I feel like I know what life is about, LOVE. Unselfish, unconditional love.
I told Andrew that this experience has sparked inside of me the person I’ve always hoped I’d become but wasn’t sure was there. I’ve never really had to be courageous so I wasn’t sure that I was. What I’m finding out about humanity is that we are all brave, strong and courageous when there is an opportunity to be. Sometimes we need a little push to get there, but deep down inside we have what it takes.
I want to encourage you today that you are so much more then you think you are. You can accomplish way more then you thought you could. You already have everything you need to become who you want to become. I hope that you never have to go through anything like I am going through in order to find that person within, but when you do face trials know that it is an opportunity to tap into your most wonderful self! Sending Love your way!
Bailey, you are one of the strongest women I know. You are so inspiring to me and I am so blessed to call you a friend and mentor. You, Andrew, and Ellie are such a blessing to me! You are such a woman of God and I know God will keep giving you the strength to get through this. Your family is in my prayers. Love you all! Hugs from here! 🙂
Bailey, I shared with Andrew last week some of the things I had experienced walking this road with my sister. I have experienced what you are describing. Some memories are so specific and vivid, and others are a blur. When you see that you have a few minutes I would love for us to run to Sonic to enjoy a drink and some conversation. I will check in with you soon, but if you need that break before you hear from me, just text! Love you!
Sweet Bailey,
The Lord is so greatly showing His strength through you right now. Know that you and your whole family are being lifted up in NC. I wish I could give you a hug. So thankful for the joy in you as you are facing this mountain. We love you!
So inspired and encouraged by you! Sonorous of the way you are allowing The Lord to use you in such mighty ways! Praying for your sweet family! We serve a great God!
Bay, your writing really touches my soul;I can only amagine what you guys are going through. I love you both very much and your Mom and I here for the battle. With all my Love Dad
Good morning, you dont know me but I know your father- in -law. We have had many conversations. Your husbands book is a big inspiration for my daughter. You see my daughter was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphomia last November and we went through what you are going through with Andrew. It is so humbling to walk those halls at MD Anderson but, dont be afraid to reach out to the people that are there. You will meet some interesting people from all over the world and you will all have one thing in common ” kicking cancer’s ass”. Hang in there, never give up the fight (because at times you will feel like it) and dont ever be afraid to cry and wear out your knees praying. Dont be afraid of the anger, draw strength from it. Its God’s way of letting you show your passion. And dont ever forget to laugh. And become a fan of Lysol and hand sanitizer. They will become your best friends for the next several months. You and yours are forever in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless You always.
~Candie Overton ATC, LAT
Praying for complete healing, through Christ nothing is impossible.
Sweet Bay-Bay, I have never read more beautiful words. Thank you for the honest sharing of what you’re discovering. I’m reminded so clearly of Corrie Ten Boom’s analogy that “God gives us our train ticket just as we are boarding the train,” interpreted as, we will be given the courage to face our fears just in the moment we need it the most. God is using you two in ways you cannot comprehend for now. Blessed be His name. Love you intensely! – Nancy Perry
Bailey,
Know that you and Andrew are in our thoughts and prays daily. Both your blogs are so inspiring and we know God is with you through this journey. Through him all things are possible and we are praying for devine healing for Andrew. He is a true man of God and many lives are being touched though him. What a Blessing he is to us all.
Love you guys
Then Lamb’s
Dear Bailey,
You don’t know me, but I’m friends with your mom and dad! They have shared with me through the past year how very proud they are of you and your family! I have so much faith that God will take care of your family and if it is time for Andrew to be with our Lord, He will give you the strength to get through this and live each day with Andrew to it’s fullest. I will continue to pray for a miracle. I am walking a pilgrimage in Spain next year where miracles are know to take place. While I train for that journey, I will pray for a miracle for Andrew, you and your entire family!
My sincerest love and prayers go out to you!
Jill Rudler
Bailey and Andrew,
You are surrounded by prayer and never alone through this. It’s very easy for the deceiver to lead you to feeling isolated… it isn’t the truth. He has given you and Andrew all you experiences (training) to prepare you for this rough patch. People this very moment are praying for y’all all over the country! Thank you for your posts and life perspective that we should always keep as our focus. Y’all are loved and we are praying for healing and peace!
Love, The Prindivilles