Somber anniversary

It was a year ago today that Karen had the surgery that led to the diagnosis of ovarian cancer. It is one of those days forever etched in my memory: seeing her off into surgery feeling confident that this tumor would be gone; an excruciating three and a half hour wait before my pager goes off. Up to a conference room where I met Dr. Argenta. The words that changed our lives forever started with "the news I have is not good". Then a few hours later, as Karen awakened, telling her what no husband ever wants to tell his wife: They found cancer. Watching her sob helplessly as she said she wouldn't live to see our daughters' weddings. Making the phone calls to family and friends, hearing their crying. Taking our daughters to see her that night.

Nobody should live through that.

A year later, Karen remains in remission. For this I am thankful. Everyone says life is a gift. I would add to that: it's a gift given to us daily. None of us is entitled to tomorrow. We go day by day in faith in Christ and love one another - not easy, but better than the alternatives.

Good things have come out of this: closer relationships with Karen's sister, with my sisters and brother, new closesness with many other relatives, a new depth in our faith, a deeper appreciation for each day, but also a sense of urgency about planning for the future - a hard thing to do when just staying fed and keeping gas in the car is made more difficult (e-mail me at soulwise@msn.com if you're curious as to whom I think is to blame for these problems in all of our lives).

You have prayed us through so much, and I've prayed for all of you who have asked me. A year later, we ask for your prayers in keeping a steady income coming in. This battle has cost us a great deal - add to this my career battles as a glittering real estate career took a nosedive - but we face each day and work to support our families. Please keep this in your prayers for us. And of course for Karen's ongoing healing. If Karen is less worried about income, she is less stressed. Cancer and stress go hand in hand.

Thank you again for prayers, support, love, and encouragement. All our love to you.

John Jacobsen
(with Karen and the girls)

Been a while

It has been since later in June that I've updated the blog. In the world of cancer, no news is good news. We do have some prayer needs and concerns we'd like to share with you in the time being.

Karen is looking for gainful part time employment. Our daughters Kylie and Shelby are both in dance and ice skating respectively. Dance lessons, ice time, etc can run $500.00 a month. Please pray for God's provision of a part time job to cover these expenses. Additionally, I'm keeping my eyes open for other work opportunities. The project I was on at Allianz stretched out seven months. They may need me back for another - but not sure when that will be. Please pray for God's continued steady and providing Hand to guide us. He always has in the past, even when the road has become rocky. And He provided through many of you. We will always be grateful.

Karen has been having some pain lately. It appears to be related to a post-surgical hernia she developed. Pray for relief from the pain. Nothing is worse for me than seeing my wife in pain and wanting to do something about it. She goes back to the OBGYN/oncologist for more tests in October.

A verse deep in my memory came to the surface yesterday - Romans 10:11, "...whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed" (NASV). Even if our circumstances in life disappoint or are downright upsetting, God never is. Wrap yourself in His love.

And read my sister Marilyn's blog - it's awesome! http://meowylyn.blogspot.com

John J