My grace is sufficient for thee. For my power is made perfect in weakness.”
II Corinthians 12:9
When I was 48 years old, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. After several tests and a surgery, I learned that the cancer was invasive and aggressive. Another surgery was required, which was followed by chemotherapy and radiation treatments. My heart sank as I recalled the cancer journey that my mom had experienced. She, too, had breast cancer at 48 years old. She had a recurrence that eventually took her life. But God was faithful to give her joy in the midst of the storm. She knew the peace that only God can give and she kept her eyes on His loving kindness and she had a thankful heart. Whatever God had for me, I wanted His peace as well.
God does not disappoint. I learned that His grace was sufficient for me as I leaned hard on Him and His promises in scripture.
I underwent surgery to have ten lymph nodes removed and rejoiced with my family when I learned they were all clear. Chemo lasted for four months. Then came six weeks of radiation. During that time, I was fairly weak and could not continue to work as a ballet and jazz instructor. But God provided faithful colleagues to substitute for me in my absence. His mercy and grace abounded. I went back to teaching after only one season away.
Four years later, when another cancer was discovered in my other breast, the doctors recommended a double mastectomy. Yet again, my Lord guided the way for my surgeries and reconstruction, and He encouraged me. My loving husband, family, and friends came alongside me and gave me incredible support. Today, I am dancing and teaching on a regular basis.
I have learned so much from my experience with cancer! I would not have asked for it. But I am so grateful for all God showed me in the valley of grief and pain. If cancer rocks your world, remember that God remains the same, yesterday, today, and forever!
Philippians 4:4 says to “rejoice in the Lord always.” How does one do that in such circumstances? I have learned it is possible to rejoice in Him in spite of difficult and challenging circumstances because He is faithful to pour out His love, comfort and miraculous peace in the midst of a raging storm. I am so thankful!
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
II Corinthians 4:18