Today Karen had lab work and met with her chemotherapy doctor. The CA125 blood test was performed. CA125 is a protein produced typically in ovarian cancer patients. I won't get into the details (I can refer anyone interested in more information about this test). Prior to surgery, Karen's CA125 was 82 - normal is 0-30. Today it was at 6. Yes, SIX!!! This is a positive sign that the beast is being fought and losing.
Of course, there has to be the usual sobering news to counterbalance this. Karen was told ovarian cancer has a high recurrence rate - 60% within the first two years after chemotherapy. We are aware of this, but we also know Karen is younger than most OC patients and in a much better state of health. She was also told if it doesn't recur within five years, most likely it will not recur at all.
Statistics are always out there and all of us know how misleading they can be. However, God is not subject to our human games of chance. He isn't subject to odds and probabilities. Events in my life prove this every day. It comes down to this: each day is a gift from God. Life and death are in His hands, no matter how much control we think we may have. Karen will kill the beast (our affectionate nickname for cancer) because all of you are praying, not because of the odds. I wish I could express the depth of our gratitude to you. Words don't cut it.
We did write a newsletter we may or may not get out...06 and 07 haven't been great years in our lives and it's hard to write one of those letters in years like these. We will take this chance to say Merry Christmas. We're spending it here, simply, happily, wanting only one gift: HEALING.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Monday, December 10, 2007
Halfway point in treatment, and some positive news
Karen had her third round of chemotherapy on Friday the 7th. Because of the chemical burn at the abdominal port, one of the chemicals used has been changed and all the chemotherapy is now being administered through the chest port. Since last Friday she has been very tired and had much joint pain, but she still gets up and around. In fact we went to see "Enchanted" on Saturday. When she's this tired, however, cooking is virtually impossible and the girls are having to 1) eat out; or 2) eat my cooking, which thankfully they don't seem to mind. I'll admit, though, that I'm a far better baker than a cook.
I've been placed into a temporary assignment starting Dec. 19-21 then from January through possibly April, doing legal case analysis for a large insurance carrier here in the Twin Cities. Your prayers have been answered! Under the category of "when it rains it pours", I'm talking to another out of state company about a position I really want where I could work from home and do work I enjoy - this is critical, since the flexibility is necessary at this point in our lives. Please keep this job possibility in prayer. Plus I have an interview with a major insurance broker on Wednesday. I've been out doing real estate work and have good leads to sell one of my listings, but until that happens, we need a reliable source of income. Someday real estate will be that for me once again, but not now.
Many of you have been so kind to offer rides and meals and we appreciate it so much. A few have given us Target gift cards and Whole Foods Market gift cards and this is helping us get through the rough spot right now. Again, we've learned how a cataclysmic event like this really brings out the best in most people, but especially in the Body of Christ.
We look forward to the fundraiser on January 27. Karen even suggested the other day that we write a new song for the occasion. Honestly, the music died in me on August 28, having not written a single song since that day, but who knows what could be revealed to me between now and then. Karen and I are talking about getting out and singing again, maybe even recording again in 2008, once this is over. This is how much we anticipate a victorious end.
I'll close with the verse I read this morning that is our prayer for you - Romans 15:13: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." No matter what is happening in your lives right now, be filled with that hope that comes only from God.
I've been placed into a temporary assignment starting Dec. 19-21 then from January through possibly April, doing legal case analysis for a large insurance carrier here in the Twin Cities. Your prayers have been answered! Under the category of "when it rains it pours", I'm talking to another out of state company about a position I really want where I could work from home and do work I enjoy - this is critical, since the flexibility is necessary at this point in our lives. Please keep this job possibility in prayer. Plus I have an interview with a major insurance broker on Wednesday. I've been out doing real estate work and have good leads to sell one of my listings, but until that happens, we need a reliable source of income. Someday real estate will be that for me once again, but not now.
Many of you have been so kind to offer rides and meals and we appreciate it so much. A few have given us Target gift cards and Whole Foods Market gift cards and this is helping us get through the rough spot right now. Again, we've learned how a cataclysmic event like this really brings out the best in most people, but especially in the Body of Christ.
We look forward to the fundraiser on January 27. Karen even suggested the other day that we write a new song for the occasion. Honestly, the music died in me on August 28, having not written a single song since that day, but who knows what could be revealed to me between now and then. Karen and I are talking about getting out and singing again, maybe even recording again in 2008, once this is over. This is how much we anticipate a victorious end.
I'll close with the verse I read this morning that is our prayer for you - Romans 15:13: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." No matter what is happening in your lives right now, be filled with that hope that comes only from God.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
December has arrived
This morning I read John 14:27 and it spoke to me, particularly where Jesus says "Let not your heart be troubled" (emphasis mine). Many have asked me, with all that's going on, how do you do it? Truthfully, I don't. If I were trying to make it without faith, I couldn't face the day. There is plenty to despair about, but that's just living in this world, even in the best of times. We have a choice to be troubled. We have a choice to be fearful. Fear paralyzes. I refuse to give in to that.
Indeed, there is much I could fear about, particularly the lack of steady income. Even though a few serious real estate buyers have emerged, real estate feels like volunteer work most of the time, if you know what I mean. We need a steady stream. This would definitely reassure Karen and I'm trying to keep as much of this stress from her as possible. Her job is the hardest of all: beat this beast called cancer, and focus on that alone. You all come into this with your prayers and ongoing support. I can only ask that you continue.
Karen has a 6 x 4 inch size chemo burn above the abdominal port. She continues chemotherapy on Friday and her regimen is changing somewhat. It will all be administered through the chest port now and it's changing to a more traditional chemotherapy. She is in excruciating pain. How do you describe pain? It's all from this internal burn. With years of defending medical malpractice claims, it is the first I've come across this - and not even the oncologists have seen this before, though it's been heard of. Karen is as content as she can be right now. Please pray for her peace of mind and of course for her complete recovery.
The fundraiser is still scheduled for January 27. Out of respect for everyone's Christmas financial strain, I'll be focusing on ticket sales after Christmas is over. Many have asked about this and we're so blessed by the support and kindness.
Please, continue to pray for our needs to be met and for Karen's peace of mind. While you're at it, pray for our older daughter Kylie, who is going through a great deal of anger right now. Much of this has to do with being in 7th grade (did anyone enjoy 7th grade?!?) but she's very upset about her mother's diagnosis. Please pray for her peace through a year that has become very challenging for her, or for any 7th grader.
Thank you again for your prayers and we'll remain in touch.
Indeed, there is much I could fear about, particularly the lack of steady income. Even though a few serious real estate buyers have emerged, real estate feels like volunteer work most of the time, if you know what I mean. We need a steady stream. This would definitely reassure Karen and I'm trying to keep as much of this stress from her as possible. Her job is the hardest of all: beat this beast called cancer, and focus on that alone. You all come into this with your prayers and ongoing support. I can only ask that you continue.
Karen has a 6 x 4 inch size chemo burn above the abdominal port. She continues chemotherapy on Friday and her regimen is changing somewhat. It will all be administered through the chest port now and it's changing to a more traditional chemotherapy. She is in excruciating pain. How do you describe pain? It's all from this internal burn. With years of defending medical malpractice claims, it is the first I've come across this - and not even the oncologists have seen this before, though it's been heard of. Karen is as content as she can be right now. Please pray for her peace of mind and of course for her complete recovery.
The fundraiser is still scheduled for January 27. Out of respect for everyone's Christmas financial strain, I'll be focusing on ticket sales after Christmas is over. Many have asked about this and we're so blessed by the support and kindness.
Please, continue to pray for our needs to be met and for Karen's peace of mind. While you're at it, pray for our older daughter Kylie, who is going through a great deal of anger right now. Much of this has to do with being in 7th grade (did anyone enjoy 7th grade?!?) but she's very upset about her mother's diagnosis. Please pray for her peace through a year that has become very challenging for her, or for any 7th grader.
Thank you again for your prayers and we'll remain in touch.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
PRAY FOR US
This morning my older sister called me. My mother, who has been in poor health for some time, has just been hospitalized for a mild case of congestive heart failure. When I saw her a couple weeks ago, she didn't look good and was having trouble breathing. Please keep her in prayer - her name is Sharon Darnick.
The chemical burn that resulted from Karen's last chemotherapy treatment still hasn't resolved. She goes back in tomorrow. I took her to Methodist Hospital three times last week. The pain is terrible. We're also having issues with one of Karen's medications - imagine my shock when I expected to pay $10.00 because of a special program with the manufacturer, and they ask for $767.00! This was after my medical savings plan discount, where it would have been almost $1000.00.
I'm still in need of steady, reliable income. While much is happening with my real estate listings and I have many clients who appear promising, I can't count on that. Imagine trying to support your family based on the futures market, and you all know what's happening with housing. THIS IS A CRITICAL NEED! Karen will be able to focus on her health much better if she's not worried about income.
There are mountaintops and valleys, and today we're in a valley. Thank you for helping us through your prayers. They are badly needed now.
John J
The chemical burn that resulted from Karen's last chemotherapy treatment still hasn't resolved. She goes back in tomorrow. I took her to Methodist Hospital three times last week. The pain is terrible. We're also having issues with one of Karen's medications - imagine my shock when I expected to pay $10.00 because of a special program with the manufacturer, and they ask for $767.00! This was after my medical savings plan discount, where it would have been almost $1000.00.
I'm still in need of steady, reliable income. While much is happening with my real estate listings and I have many clients who appear promising, I can't count on that. Imagine trying to support your family based on the futures market, and you all know what's happening with housing. THIS IS A CRITICAL NEED! Karen will be able to focus on her health much better if she's not worried about income.
There are mountaintops and valleys, and today we're in a valley. Thank you for helping us through your prayers. They are badly needed now.
John J
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Stress and mistakes - a challenging week
I'll begin today's post by thanking all of you who have kept us in thought and prayer. Again, your encouragement means so much to us.
It has been a highly difficult few days. Karen had the treatment last Friday that injects the chemotherapy into the abdominal port. As soon as it was started, she told them she felt burning. It was started two more times and she continued to feel burning. She had to be taken up to radiology and had the longest possible needle to do the chemo. Then it was fine...but then on Saturday she began complaining of swelling and pain in the abdominal port area, then on Sunday I took her to see the on-call oncologist at Methodist Hospital, who didn't think there was an infection or any other problem. She was started on Augmentin - a powerful antibiotic that is, FYI, used on horses - and this made her sick.
The pain became worse and on Tuesday and today (Wednesday) we went back to Methodist to try to get to the bottom of this. It turns out Karen has a chemical burn from the Friday chemotherapy. She's in considerable pain from it and the swelling is significant. She doesn't want to take chemotherapy until the swelling is down and the pain stops. It was an unnecessary complication.
Last weekend Karen got all the hats and scarves we ordered from somewhere called Headcoverings.com. She's opting for these instead of the wigs. Her hair is nearly gone - tragic, but also short term.
So we go into Thanksgiving tomorrow with some concerns, but we know God can handle it. That sounds like a song, doesn't it? "God Can Handle It". Times like these bring out the worst in some people, sadly enough - but it brings out the best in most.
We're thankful for your prayers and the constant love and concern expressed by so many of you. Thank you.
It has been a highly difficult few days. Karen had the treatment last Friday that injects the chemotherapy into the abdominal port. As soon as it was started, she told them she felt burning. It was started two more times and she continued to feel burning. She had to be taken up to radiology and had the longest possible needle to do the chemo. Then it was fine...but then on Saturday she began complaining of swelling and pain in the abdominal port area, then on Sunday I took her to see the on-call oncologist at Methodist Hospital, who didn't think there was an infection or any other problem. She was started on Augmentin - a powerful antibiotic that is, FYI, used on horses - and this made her sick.
The pain became worse and on Tuesday and today (Wednesday) we went back to Methodist to try to get to the bottom of this. It turns out Karen has a chemical burn from the Friday chemotherapy. She's in considerable pain from it and the swelling is significant. She doesn't want to take chemotherapy until the swelling is down and the pain stops. It was an unnecessary complication.
Last weekend Karen got all the hats and scarves we ordered from somewhere called Headcoverings.com. She's opting for these instead of the wigs. Her hair is nearly gone - tragic, but also short term.
So we go into Thanksgiving tomorrow with some concerns, but we know God can handle it. That sounds like a song, doesn't it? "God Can Handle It". Times like these bring out the worst in some people, sadly enough - but it brings out the best in most.
We're thankful for your prayers and the constant love and concern expressed by so many of you. Thank you.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Prayer needed
The next round of chemotherapy begins tomorrow. Please keep Karen in prayer, especially now that hair is coming out - though slowly. Karen had long, beautiful blond hair and this has been the most traumatic part of the whole experience.
Please keep my work situation in prayer. I'm getting many more real estate possibilities - just as long as the buyers are serious and the listings sell. I've been taking to agents in the business over 20 years who say this is the worst market they've ever seen. I'm determined to ride it out but need to keep a steady income. I'm becoming a professional interviewer - too bad that doesn't pay.....
Please feel free to e-mail us or even call. The encouragement of so many others keeps us going.
Please keep my work situation in prayer. I'm getting many more real estate possibilities - just as long as the buyers are serious and the listings sell. I've been taking to agents in the business over 20 years who say this is the worst market they've ever seen. I'm determined to ride it out but need to keep a steady income. I'm becoming a professional interviewer - too bad that doesn't pay.....
Please feel free to e-mail us or even call. The encouragement of so many others keeps us going.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Fundraiser event January 27, giving thanks
Greetings to family and friends: Our friend Nicole Sanders is planning a fundraiser to help with Karen's expenses as we wage this fight against ovarian cancer. It will be January 27 at 5:00 pm and there will be a silent auction and cash bar and hors'dourves (I'm sure I spelled that wrong). Tickets are $40.00 per person and I have some available as does Nicole. E-mail me at soulwise@msn.com or Nicole at nsanders@mailnparcelplus.com.
The next round of chemotherapy begins on Thursday the 15th. It is a Thurs/Fri/Thurs cycle each time around. She is scheduled to have chemotherapy the day after Thanksgiving. In the last couple of days, hair has begun to fall out. Though many mean well in trying to encourage Karen during this time, this is the hardest part for her. Please keep her in prayer. Her spirit is strong and she's very encouraged to keep fighting. We spent this last weekend in southern Wisconsin at my mother's home and were so happy to spend time with my sisters Laura and Marilyn (from Illinois and Florida respectively) and my Uncle Mark who lives with my mother and helps take care of her. My mother is in very poor health, on oxygen 24/7 and in need of your prayers too.
As Karen progresses into the next treatment, please keep us in prayer. We're so blessed by the generosity and the expressions of love we have from so many of you. We have set up a fund through UBS for contributions for medical expenses - e-mail us for more information. I'll close with Isaiah 26:3: "You will keep in perfect peace, him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You."
John J
Karen and the girls (Kylie and Shelby)
The next round of chemotherapy begins on Thursday the 15th. It is a Thurs/Fri/Thurs cycle each time around. She is scheduled to have chemotherapy the day after Thanksgiving. In the last couple of days, hair has begun to fall out. Though many mean well in trying to encourage Karen during this time, this is the hardest part for her. Please keep her in prayer. Her spirit is strong and she's very encouraged to keep fighting. We spent this last weekend in southern Wisconsin at my mother's home and were so happy to spend time with my sisters Laura and Marilyn (from Illinois and Florida respectively) and my Uncle Mark who lives with my mother and helps take care of her. My mother is in very poor health, on oxygen 24/7 and in need of your prayers too.
As Karen progresses into the next treatment, please keep us in prayer. We're so blessed by the generosity and the expressions of love we have from so many of you. We have set up a fund through UBS for contributions for medical expenses - e-mail us for more information. I'll close with Isaiah 26:3: "You will keep in perfect peace, him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You."
John J
Karen and the girls (Kylie and Shelby)
Friday, November 2, 2007
The first treatment done, finding new strength
Yesterday (Nov 1) Karen went thru the third phase of chemotherapy. Each round of chemotherapy is a Thursday/Friday/Thursday cycle, every three weeks and she has been prescribed six rounds. She came home yesterday extremely weak and tired. She complained of a lack of sleep to one of the doctors. Last night, Karen slept well. When she greeted me this morning, she said "I feel back to normal". A full night sleep did her more good than anything. With chemotherapy, there is much pain and discomfort and it's difficult to stay in one position. But she slept well. Last night Karen prayed she would sleep well, and she did.
On my job situation: I had a very lengthy interview with a reinsurance company. This all happened very suddenly, which makes me believe this is of the Lord. I'm supposed to hear next week. Please keep this in prayer - it would be a great boost for Karen's spirits right now. Ideally I'd like for her not to have to work during chemotherapy and this job would allow that. Of course, real estate just won't move these days. Everyone is struggling in the real estate business right now.
Karen and I feel surrounded by your prayers. More than anything this is giving Karen the strength to fight cancer. Please keep your prayers going. And please stay in touch with us. We are so encouraged by posts to this blog, e-mails and phone calls. THANK YOU!
John and Karen
On my job situation: I had a very lengthy interview with a reinsurance company. This all happened very suddenly, which makes me believe this is of the Lord. I'm supposed to hear next week. Please keep this in prayer - it would be a great boost for Karen's spirits right now. Ideally I'd like for her not to have to work during chemotherapy and this job would allow that. Of course, real estate just won't move these days. Everyone is struggling in the real estate business right now.
Karen and I feel surrounded by your prayers. More than anything this is giving Karen the strength to fight cancer. Please keep your prayers going. And please stay in touch with us. We are so encouraged by posts to this blog, e-mails and phone calls. THANK YOU!
John and Karen
Saturday, October 27, 2007
The first round of chemotherapy
On Thursday Karen went for the first round of chemotherapy. This was done through the chest port. She was given a pump that she carried with her for 24 hours. It went just fine - though it seemed like she was carrying a purse everywhere.
Friday Karen had the stronger chemotherapy injected into the abdominal port. This is a five hour drip. She has been placed on anti-nausea medication (which appears to be working) but she has been very tired and has occasional shooting pains, which the nurse told her are her organs fighting with the chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is basically poison. It will kill the cancer cells. But it also kills good cells, which is why many chemotherapy patients lose their hair, for instance. She has been told by the next treatment she will probably lose her hair. It will be in about three weeks.
Many of you are asking what you can do. PRAY. Continue to pray. By your prayers, Karen is so far handling this better than I expected, though we're still early into this. She is doing much to boost her immunity. This will help keep her strong, and hopefully less sick, as chemotherapy continues. PRAY also for our daughters Kylie and Shelby. This has been hard for Kylie at age 12 on top of the trauma of being a 7th grader (did anyone enjoy 7th grade?!?). Shelby, age 11, simply doesn't talk about this.
If we get to a point we need help with meals or anything else, as so many of you have graciously volunteered (and provided), we will let you know. Because one day some of you will be in need, and we want you to be able to come to us, and not be afraid to ask. God can't provide for any of our needs unless we make the needs known.
Lastly, pray for my job situation. My 3-month work assignment is nearing an end, though it has a possibility of continuing. It will make Karen's recovery so much more smooth if she's not worried about the basics. She keeps talking about going back to work. I tell her, "You have one job: fight for life. I'll take care of the rest." I know better: God is the one who signs my paychecks. Please keep this in prayer.
Please post your comments too...they encourage us so much. Or e-mail us at soulwise@msn.com.
John J
Friday Karen had the stronger chemotherapy injected into the abdominal port. This is a five hour drip. She has been placed on anti-nausea medication (which appears to be working) but she has been very tired and has occasional shooting pains, which the nurse told her are her organs fighting with the chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is basically poison. It will kill the cancer cells. But it also kills good cells, which is why many chemotherapy patients lose their hair, for instance. She has been told by the next treatment she will probably lose her hair. It will be in about three weeks.
Many of you are asking what you can do. PRAY. Continue to pray. By your prayers, Karen is so far handling this better than I expected, though we're still early into this. She is doing much to boost her immunity. This will help keep her strong, and hopefully less sick, as chemotherapy continues. PRAY also for our daughters Kylie and Shelby. This has been hard for Kylie at age 12 on top of the trauma of being a 7th grader (did anyone enjoy 7th grade?!?). Shelby, age 11, simply doesn't talk about this.
If we get to a point we need help with meals or anything else, as so many of you have graciously volunteered (and provided), we will let you know. Because one day some of you will be in need, and we want you to be able to come to us, and not be afraid to ask. God can't provide for any of our needs unless we make the needs known.
Lastly, pray for my job situation. My 3-month work assignment is nearing an end, though it has a possibility of continuing. It will make Karen's recovery so much more smooth if she's not worried about the basics. She keeps talking about going back to work. I tell her, "You have one job: fight for life. I'll take care of the rest." I know better: God is the one who signs my paychecks. Please keep this in prayer.
Please post your comments too...they encourage us so much. Or e-mail us at soulwise@msn.com.
John J
Saturday, October 20, 2007
We have been blessed - thank you
Karen and I are so thankful for the many gifts, offers of support, and kindness that many have shown. Situations like this truly put the body of Christ to the test - and it wins every time. Thank you so much!
Thursday the 25th is the day Karen will begin chemotherapy at Methodist Hospital. She spends a few hours on Thursday, takes home a pump with her that continues all the way through Friday, then Friday the more difficult treatment - the chemotherapy into the abdomen which is specifically targeting the cancer cells found in the abdominal wall. So far, this has seemed pretty surreal - other than Karen having her hair cut short to prepare psychologically for losing her beautiful blond hair, life has seemed pretty normal.
I wish I knew what to say or what to expect, when I have no idea. And what about our girls? Kylie is 12 and Shelby is 11. On August 28, I told them this is awful for them, being so young and having to deal with their parents' health issues but this is what God is calling them to deal with now. We can only do this a day at a time. Just like Jesus told us in the Sermon on the Mount, do not worry about tomorrow - each day has enough trouble of its own. Only times have changed since 2000 years ago. There was still stress. It was just distributed differently.
My sister Laura told us about a clinical trial she heard about at Mayo Clinic which we pursued, unsuccessfully, this week. Mayo is testing a new chemotherapy drug that cuts off the blood supply to tumors. Karen didn't qualify because she had no residual disease or tumors after her August 28 surgery. So she is proceeding at Methodist Hospital.
The staff at Park Nicollet has been working with us on paying the bills so far. Our dear friend Nicole Sanders has planned a benefit/silent auction on January 27 and tickets will be available soon for it - watch this space. Our former church, Berean Baptist Church, is giving us $3000 toward starting the chemotherapy. Every way we look, we see His hand moving.
This is not to say there is not fear or tears. There are plenty of those. My prayer requests for the many of you are these: 1) for Karen, as she begins - that God will in His grace make the chemotherapy bearable for her and strengthen her body (she has started this process with many vitamins and eating virtually no sugar, which she says she "hasn't missed"; 2) for me, to continue to provide for my family during this time. I took on a consulting position with a company called Bridge Funds during the real estate crisis lately that I should know in a few days if it is permanent or not. Either way, I need to be able to assure Karen that we'll make it through these next few months. I'm certainly open to more real estate work as it would give me more flexibility. 3) for the girls, for the strengthening of their faith and encouragement of their spirits during the next few months.
"Great Is Thy Faithfulness" has always been one of my favorite hymns. I'll close with the chorus of this great hymn:
Great is thy faithfulness, great is Thy faithfulness
Morning by morning, new mercies I see
All I have needed, Thy hand has provided
Great is Thy Faithfulness, Lord unto me
In His Love
John and Karne Jacobsen
Thursday the 25th is the day Karen will begin chemotherapy at Methodist Hospital. She spends a few hours on Thursday, takes home a pump with her that continues all the way through Friday, then Friday the more difficult treatment - the chemotherapy into the abdomen which is specifically targeting the cancer cells found in the abdominal wall. So far, this has seemed pretty surreal - other than Karen having her hair cut short to prepare psychologically for losing her beautiful blond hair, life has seemed pretty normal.
I wish I knew what to say or what to expect, when I have no idea. And what about our girls? Kylie is 12 and Shelby is 11. On August 28, I told them this is awful for them, being so young and having to deal with their parents' health issues but this is what God is calling them to deal with now. We can only do this a day at a time. Just like Jesus told us in the Sermon on the Mount, do not worry about tomorrow - each day has enough trouble of its own. Only times have changed since 2000 years ago. There was still stress. It was just distributed differently.
My sister Laura told us about a clinical trial she heard about at Mayo Clinic which we pursued, unsuccessfully, this week. Mayo is testing a new chemotherapy drug that cuts off the blood supply to tumors. Karen didn't qualify because she had no residual disease or tumors after her August 28 surgery. So she is proceeding at Methodist Hospital.
The staff at Park Nicollet has been working with us on paying the bills so far. Our dear friend Nicole Sanders has planned a benefit/silent auction on January 27 and tickets will be available soon for it - watch this space. Our former church, Berean Baptist Church, is giving us $3000 toward starting the chemotherapy. Every way we look, we see His hand moving.
This is not to say there is not fear or tears. There are plenty of those. My prayer requests for the many of you are these: 1) for Karen, as she begins - that God will in His grace make the chemotherapy bearable for her and strengthen her body (she has started this process with many vitamins and eating virtually no sugar, which she says she "hasn't missed"; 2) for me, to continue to provide for my family during this time. I took on a consulting position with a company called Bridge Funds during the real estate crisis lately that I should know in a few days if it is permanent or not. Either way, I need to be able to assure Karen that we'll make it through these next few months. I'm certainly open to more real estate work as it would give me more flexibility. 3) for the girls, for the strengthening of their faith and encouragement of their spirits during the next few months.
"Great Is Thy Faithfulness" has always been one of my favorite hymns. I'll close with the chorus of this great hymn:
Great is thy faithfulness, great is Thy faithfulness
Morning by morning, new mercies I see
All I have needed, Thy hand has provided
Great is Thy Faithfulness, Lord unto me
In His Love
John and Karne Jacobsen
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Preparing for the battle - and scroll down below to get a "prayer pin"
On Wednesday Karen decided to wait on chemotherapy. Her concerns were financial - we hadn't heard back from any of the organizations that were going to provide assistance and then a couple of the drug companies called wanting advance payment for their chemotherapy drugs (over $1000). I was upset and angry at first, but it turns out this was from the hand of God. The following day I got an e-mail out to my prayer warriors (if you wish to join this group let me know by e-mailing me at soulwise@msn.com) and within minutes we heard from a dear friend of ours that a church we were once active in had a large benevolent fund it had to give away by the end of the year. Our friend made the initial request and it's looking positive for the money to get chemotherapy started. Please keep this in prayer. We need to hear soon, like in the next couple days.
Then on Friday Karen received a call from Park Nicollet. One of the drug companies, Glaxo Smith Kline, reviewed our application and agreed to $10.00 instead of the $500.00 for its drugs. They saw on the application that we have children aged 12 and 11 and this was the deciding factor for them. They're scheduling Karen for chemotherapy to begin on Oct. 25 which will give her time to get down to her parents' house and prepare it for sale. All I know is when the saints pray, God moves.
Karen is also reading "Beating Cancer with Nutrition" by Patrick Quillin. A fellow ovarian cancer survivor who refused chemotherapy treatment recommended this book. We've learned that cancer cells thrive and live on glucose - sugar - and when they are denied the vast amount of sugar that we continually feed our bodies, the cells die. It has worked for many. Karen is taking a nutritional approach as well as chemotherapy. This is how cancer was treated long before chemotherapy became the standard of care. On the strength of this, Karen, the girls and I spent time at Trader Joe's and Whole Foods in Minneapolis. We found all kinds of no-sugar goodies. Both Kylie and Shelby say they want to eat better now. Some changes are going to be made.
Sadly, medicine looks askance at any so-called "alternative" approach. Several years ago I was diagnosed with diverticulitis (an inflammation of the colon resulting in infections treated with two of the worst antibiotics you can imagine) and I had the top colorectal specialist in the Midwest telling me to have a surgery to remove two sections of the colon. Somewhere I heard about aloe vera juice. I went to Valley Natural Foods in Burnsville and picked a bottle of this stuff up. It tasted awful! But I drank it every day and stopped eating popcorn (deadly for me) and nuts. The infections disappeared. In the last four years, I've had one flare up of diverticulitis and I cured it with rest and aloe vera juice. My doctor just nodded his head. But these approaches work. Ultimately all of us have to do what is right for us - we know our own bodies - and Karen knows chemotherapy will kill the cancer cells, so she wants to do it, though she's been warned it is an aggressive chemotherapy for an aggressive cancer. But when it's over, and during it, she's going to modify her diet considerably. And the hope and prayer is that this cancer will be killed or put into remission - for good.
Many from our church, Prince of Peace Lutheran in Burnsville, have begun praying for Karen. Karen's childhood church in Shawnee KS, First Baptist, has placed her on their prayer list. There are many throughout the country, indeed throughout the world, remembering Karen, as well as me and our daughters. We are so appreciative and every day I feel that power.
Lastly, our dear friend Nicole Sanders has made some small lapel pin ribbons in Karen's favorite color with a small charm letter "K" on them. They are to remind those of you who are praying for her to keep her in your prayers and when others ask you about it, you can ask them to pray. If you want one of your own, I have some and you can e-mail me at soulwise@msn.com or Nicole at nsanders@mailnparcelplus.com.
God bless all of you,
John J
Then on Friday Karen received a call from Park Nicollet. One of the drug companies, Glaxo Smith Kline, reviewed our application and agreed to $10.00 instead of the $500.00 for its drugs. They saw on the application that we have children aged 12 and 11 and this was the deciding factor for them. They're scheduling Karen for chemotherapy to begin on Oct. 25 which will give her time to get down to her parents' house and prepare it for sale. All I know is when the saints pray, God moves.
Karen is also reading "Beating Cancer with Nutrition" by Patrick Quillin. A fellow ovarian cancer survivor who refused chemotherapy treatment recommended this book. We've learned that cancer cells thrive and live on glucose - sugar - and when they are denied the vast amount of sugar that we continually feed our bodies, the cells die. It has worked for many. Karen is taking a nutritional approach as well as chemotherapy. This is how cancer was treated long before chemotherapy became the standard of care. On the strength of this, Karen, the girls and I spent time at Trader Joe's and Whole Foods in Minneapolis. We found all kinds of no-sugar goodies. Both Kylie and Shelby say they want to eat better now. Some changes are going to be made.
Sadly, medicine looks askance at any so-called "alternative" approach. Several years ago I was diagnosed with diverticulitis (an inflammation of the colon resulting in infections treated with two of the worst antibiotics you can imagine) and I had the top colorectal specialist in the Midwest telling me to have a surgery to remove two sections of the colon. Somewhere I heard about aloe vera juice. I went to Valley Natural Foods in Burnsville and picked a bottle of this stuff up. It tasted awful! But I drank it every day and stopped eating popcorn (deadly for me) and nuts. The infections disappeared. In the last four years, I've had one flare up of diverticulitis and I cured it with rest and aloe vera juice. My doctor just nodded his head. But these approaches work. Ultimately all of us have to do what is right for us - we know our own bodies - and Karen knows chemotherapy will kill the cancer cells, so she wants to do it, though she's been warned it is an aggressive chemotherapy for an aggressive cancer. But when it's over, and during it, she's going to modify her diet considerably. And the hope and prayer is that this cancer will be killed or put into remission - for good.
Many from our church, Prince of Peace Lutheran in Burnsville, have begun praying for Karen. Karen's childhood church in Shawnee KS, First Baptist, has placed her on their prayer list. There are many throughout the country, indeed throughout the world, remembering Karen, as well as me and our daughters. We are so appreciative and every day I feel that power.
Lastly, our dear friend Nicole Sanders has made some small lapel pin ribbons in Karen's favorite color with a small charm letter "K" on them. They are to remind those of you who are praying for her to keep her in your prayers and when others ask you about it, you can ask them to pray. If you want one of your own, I have some and you can e-mail me at soulwise@msn.com or Nicole at nsanders@mailnparcelplus.com.
God bless all of you,
John J
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Chemotherapy about to begin
Dear family and friends: We come to you with a great deal of fear right now. In the next few days, this whole cancer thing is about to become real. Karen begins chemotherapy this week. On Tuesday she has to have a port placed into her chest (in addition to one that had been placed in the surgery last August) then on Thursday she will spend 8 hours on a chemotherapy "drip" followed by another session on Friday. This cycle will repeat itself every three weeks.
We have no idea what her reaction will be. We hear about fingernails becoming brittle, sores in the mouth, skin becoming dry and taut...and more. We're scared.
A dear friend of ours gave us a book last night that has actually been quite encouraging and comforting called "Where God Is When It Hurts". The same friend also directed me to Jonah's prayer in Jonah ch 2. There is comfort in God's word.
Theologically we're struggling. Karen especially wonders: why pray, when God may already have a completely different result in mind? What's the point? We've heard some tell us over the years, God is God, and one pastor even said prayer is nothing more than a comfort to the person praying and has no bearing on what God will do, because He is Who He is. It makes Him sound pretty heartless. Do any of you relate to this struggle?
A dear lady at our church today is starting a whole group of prayer warriors to pray for us and to start delivering meals. The outpouring from family and friends has touched us deeply. We can only say thank you. It is true that when one part of the body is hurting, all the others hurt with that part.
We'll be in touch with all changes and developments. There are many we haven't heard from, who may be wondering: what do I say? We just want to know you're there praying. That's the best anyone can do.
In His Love
John Jacobsen
We have no idea what her reaction will be. We hear about fingernails becoming brittle, sores in the mouth, skin becoming dry and taut...and more. We're scared.
A dear friend of ours gave us a book last night that has actually been quite encouraging and comforting called "Where God Is When It Hurts". The same friend also directed me to Jonah's prayer in Jonah ch 2. There is comfort in God's word.
Theologically we're struggling. Karen especially wonders: why pray, when God may already have a completely different result in mind? What's the point? We've heard some tell us over the years, God is God, and one pastor even said prayer is nothing more than a comfort to the person praying and has no bearing on what God will do, because He is Who He is. It makes Him sound pretty heartless. Do any of you relate to this struggle?
A dear lady at our church today is starting a whole group of prayer warriors to pray for us and to start delivering meals. The outpouring from family and friends has touched us deeply. We can only say thank you. It is true that when one part of the body is hurting, all the others hurt with that part.
We'll be in touch with all changes and developments. There are many we haven't heard from, who may be wondering: what do I say? We just want to know you're there praying. That's the best anyone can do.
In His Love
John Jacobsen
Sunday, September 23, 2007
The question "why"
On August 28, 2007, Karen Jacobsen was diagnosed with ovarian cancer following a surgery to remove a large tumor in the left ovary. The tumor was 14 lbs. What has followed has been many days of anger and questions, yet reassurance that even in these circumstances we never wanted to be in, there can be peace.
Karen is only 45 years old. Having had two daughters (now ages 12 and 11) it didn't make sense that she would have ovarian cancer. Having children puts you at less risk! Karen and her husband John had every reason to be hopeful: the tumor was too big to be cancerous; the CT scan didn't see any enlarged lymph glands, etc. etc.
Four days after the surgery, Karen learned she had stage 3 ovarian cancer. However, she was in a group where there was more hope: there was no visible evidence of cancer after the surgery. It was all in the tumors and they were removed. Anything left was microscopic. But an aggressive course of chemotherapy was prescribed. It will be starting in the next couple weeks. And she was told the cancer cells that were found were very aggressive cancer cells.
To add to the anxiety and fear, Karen was without health insurance at the time of the surgery. She had a medical savings plan...but not true insurance. John is a realtor...need we say more? Some resource avenues are opening up but this is where the greatest need is. John has abandoned full time real estate for a time to improve his family's cashflow situation, but the need is great.
We've read all the promises in the Bible. Many reassure us with their prayers and love. But we want to know why, and we're getting silence. It's always someone else. In the previous year-and-a-half, four family members and close friends of ours were lost to cancer, including Karen's father. Why us, why now?!? No one can answer that. We need to find that place where there's comfort and assurance in God, but we're not there. We wonder if it's there.
As we begin to take this on, we need your prayers. We need you. We'll update all of you on Karen's treatment and condition. It is our hope that in about five months, we'll be reporting to you that Karen is CANCER FREE! Be confident with us. But the journey ahead is long, and we're sure it will be dark. Please be near us in prayer.
In His Love
John Jacobsen
Karen is only 45 years old. Having had two daughters (now ages 12 and 11) it didn't make sense that she would have ovarian cancer. Having children puts you at less risk! Karen and her husband John had every reason to be hopeful: the tumor was too big to be cancerous; the CT scan didn't see any enlarged lymph glands, etc. etc.
Four days after the surgery, Karen learned she had stage 3 ovarian cancer. However, she was in a group where there was more hope: there was no visible evidence of cancer after the surgery. It was all in the tumors and they were removed. Anything left was microscopic. But an aggressive course of chemotherapy was prescribed. It will be starting in the next couple weeks. And she was told the cancer cells that were found were very aggressive cancer cells.
To add to the anxiety and fear, Karen was without health insurance at the time of the surgery. She had a medical savings plan...but not true insurance. John is a realtor...need we say more? Some resource avenues are opening up but this is where the greatest need is. John has abandoned full time real estate for a time to improve his family's cashflow situation, but the need is great.
We've read all the promises in the Bible. Many reassure us with their prayers and love. But we want to know why, and we're getting silence. It's always someone else. In the previous year-and-a-half, four family members and close friends of ours were lost to cancer, including Karen's father. Why us, why now?!? No one can answer that. We need to find that place where there's comfort and assurance in God, but we're not there. We wonder if it's there.
As we begin to take this on, we need your prayers. We need you. We'll update all of you on Karen's treatment and condition. It is our hope that in about five months, we'll be reporting to you that Karen is CANCER FREE! Be confident with us. But the journey ahead is long, and we're sure it will be dark. Please be near us in prayer.
In His Love
John Jacobsen
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