Out of the Hospital

I received a brief update from Sue on Christmas day. Nichole was released from the hospital late in the day, but because of her condition, isn't able to be with the kids. She is staying at her dad's house in Burbank right now (as of yesterday). Please continue to pray for her health so that she can return to her family.
I cannot imagine the difficulty of going through the Christmas Holiday in poor health and unable to be with her own family. Please uphold them in prayer and do what you can to serve and bless this precious family.

Urgent Prayer Request

I received this update from the faithful Susan Leber yesterday. Please pray for Nichole and the Greene family. They have been trying to locate the cause of the infection she is suffering from, and it appears that the surgery didn't alleviate it. Please remember the Greene family even through the Holiday season and all of the busyness. They need the support of the Body of Christ, especially now!

Nichole’s surgery went well, but she is still in the hospital ( as of Mon.12/22) with a fever. The doctors are determined to get this under control before she is released. Please be praying that the many tests will locate the infection and Nichole will be able to come home soon. While Nichole is in the hospital she can receive visitors.

PRAY

I spoke with Nichole last week for quite a while, and was encouraged. I was challenged by my own selfishness too- I was shocked at how I had distanced myself from her situation. Some of it was circumstancial- the busyness of Christmas, tiredness of pregnancy, etc., but I had become comfortable being distant. Watching someone go through a trial like this is really no fun. It can be an occasion for real joy, when the perspective is set right, but it is difficult, no less. It was difficult for me to re-open the communication, and I was immediately sobered by her situation, and my hardness. Wow. How sinful a creature I am. How selfish to think of "my difficulty" in light of Nichole! I am so thankful that there are so many wrapping their arms around this family, and certainly the Lord is working despite my distance. I want to reach out again and do what I can (limited as I am) to bless this family and lift them up through this painful and desperate trial. Please consider giving of yourself to help them even through the busyness of Christmas. Their trial is no less burdensome through the Holidays. Here is an update I received today from Sue.

Please be praying for Nichole, She has been admitted to St. Joseph's hospital today.
Because of the infection they are planning to surgically remove the stint tomorrow morning. (which they believe is the cause of the infection)
She will most likely stay in the hospital until Friday or Saturday. Please be praying for her and Doctors.

An Update from Sue Leber

Nichole is still suffering from an infection and although the doctors are trying to treat it with I.V. antibiotics, they haven’t been able to eradicate it as of yet. After many tests the doctors cannot pinpoint the infection and the only logical direction is to remove a stint that was put in during her past surgery and is due to be removed next week (If not sooner).

Please pray that the doctors will agree on how to proceed with this issue as well as Nichole’s immune system will be strengthened so they can begin her Chemo treatments.

It’s beginning to look like they may not start until after Christmas.Thanks to so many of you that have been involved in the showering of the Greenes for Christmas. I know they are continually overwhelmed by the out -pour of love you all have shown them over the past several months. Not only in monetary things but also, with your time. You have sacrificially shared with their family in so many ways. We give thanks to God for all of you.

Finally, an update... (sorry!)

I haven't received many updates recently, probably since there hasn't been much going on medically with Nichole. She finished with the surgery, which went relatively well, and hasn't yet started chemo. That should be next week, unless this current update means that there are other problems (sickness). I spoke with Nichole briefly on Tuesday, but she was dealing with little Levi- he had a splinter (sweet boy!) and needed her attention. I will hopefully speak with her again soon and leave a more detailed update. I apologize for the long lull in updates, and will try to do better now that more is happening. This update came from Sue again (faithful Sue!!) earlier today.

I just got off the phone with Nichole this morning (Thur. 12/04) it sounds like she may be admitted to St. Joseph’s Hospital today. It seems she has been running a slight fever all week, which means an infection but the Doctors haven’t found any. So Nichole has been to the hospital often to find the problem and more tests. Now her blood count is very low, so she may have to stay for a possible transfusion.

Please be praying for her, Norm and the Doctors as this trial continues.

Nichole wanted me to let those of you who have left phone messages know that she is just unable to return those calls at this time.

If you have more questions please feel free to contact me (Sue Leber) and I will pass the info along as Nichole keeps me informed as she can. (lebersue@hotmail.com)

Wed., Dec. 3

Nichole is at home, trying to rest and recover between all the doctors appointments. One thing she could really use is help for Norm. After working a full day, he comes home and has to take care of Nichole, and make dinner, take care of the kids, and take care of anything else that has to be done around the house. If you can spare an hour or two some evening, I know they would really appreciate it.

An Update from Sue Leber

Beloved, I spoke with Nichole on Wed. (11/19) about how she was doing and when they were going to start the Chemo treatments. Nichole is doing well, she’s walking around and able to care for herself pretty well, besides getting out to Dr. appointments she is also able to go to the store with drivers. Shawni, her regular Nanny helper is doing a great job with the kids and Nichole is very happy with how things are going. When I speak to her on the phone her voice is strong and her spirits are full of joy. There is much to be thankful for. There are still many choices to make with the type of treatment ahead. She asks for your prayers in this area as they make their final decisions. They are still looking at doctors out of the area for the best and most effective treatment. These are life and death decisions that must be made and they are seeking out God's will to make these decisions. They ask for peace and strength to endure any future treatment Nichole must undergo. As of next week we will no longer need helpers for Nichole’s personal care until her condition changes. She would like to only have help with cleaning her home 2 times a week and meals, 3 times a week as displayed on the calendar / sign- up schedule, I will continue to send out. I’ll continue to schedule rides to any appointments that arise. She also would like to schedule an on-call person to come help her with the children on Saturdays, if Norm is working. This would mean you can sign up and I’ll schedule you and you will need to contact Nichole on Friday evening to find out if you are needed. Unless there is other needs to be met I will send out a new calendar next week just before I leave for the Thanksgiving holiday. I’ll be gone from Tuesday the 25th until Monday Dec.1 so please fill in the remainder of needs before then. Some of you have asked about the Greene's plans for Thanksgiving and they will be receiving a meal that day and would like to enjoy each other’s company.

I received this update last night from Sue Leber.

Nichole is doing well and recovering as expected. The infection is clearing and there is no obsesses. She has a good appetite, which is a great sign.

There are a few changes in the schedule due to one of our regular helpers, needing some time to recover from an injury (a couple of weeks). Please be praying for her.

Nichole will need more rides soon as more dr. appointments arise.
Chemo treatments have not been scheduled yet, but soon.

The Greenes have decided to add another meal to be delivered each week, since Nichole can eat now and needs to put on a few pounds while she can. (One on Sat)

Nichole has asked us to continue to pray for wisdom for the decisions ahead, for the doctors to find the right treatment for this type of cancer or to find other doctors with the more experience with this cancer, whether here or out of state.

Another brief update from Sue Leber...

Nichole is doing well at home, although she does have an infection and needs to recover from that before any chemo treatments can begin. She is regaining her strength and Norm is doing a great job as evening Nurse. All those that have been available to help, Thank you! Please continue to pray for her recovery and that the doctors make the right choice on the chemo treatment. Pray that Nichole and Family will stay healthy leading up to and through the treatments ahead. Pray for the helpers to stay healthy as well.

Here is a brief update on Nichole, listing some of her needs as well. If you would like to help, contact Sue Leber. lebersue@hotmail.com. I will give them a call soon so I can post a more detailed update. Continue to pray for them!

Nichole is doing well at home. She's very happy to be there, as are the kids and Norm. As of today the most urgent need is for the care of Nichole during the daytime (this week, wed, thu, fri. still open). She would prefer someone comfortable with medical things or someone with medical experience. She needs help getting around and changing some bandages. And you shouldn't have your own children with you for this time. There is also the need of rides for Nichole to doctor appts. If you can be available on call for rides please let me know and as appointments are made I will contact you with more details. Please contact me via email if you can help with any of these things.

Home!

Nichole is home now! Her house is abuzz with helpers watching the kids, cleaning up, and making sure she can rest. Nichole and I had a nice talk today about prayer, about the danger in putting God in a box, and about the great privilege we have as believers to go boldly before the throne of grace, asking what we will in Jesus' name, and EXPECTING an answer. God delights in answering our "impossible" prayers, so I pray daily for what may seem impossible in Nichole's life. God is great, and nothing is impossible with Him!!

More Details

I spoke with Norm for a while this morning so that I could keep you all posted on any news, and to find out more details. As you have heard, there were cancer cells found around a lymph node on the opposite side from where the surgery was directed. There was a marble-sized tumor there, which they did remove during the surgery. However, as you read yesterday, they have discovered that there are still cancer cells in the area. Norm told me this morning that once the cancer hits the lymph system, chances are it has spread. There is still hope that they wont find cancer cells throughout the whole lymph system, but that seems unlikely. The doctors have diagnosed her with stage 3 cancer. There are 4 stages of this cancer- stage 4 is when the cancer attacks the other internal organs of the body (which has not happened). God could obviously do whatever He wants to do, so we can pray and ask that the cancer cells have not spread throughout her system!! As I have urged in previous postings, let's ask God to do a miracle so that Nichole's life can continue to speak for His glory and the expansion of His Kingdom! She is still faithfully trusting and rejoicing in Him, and telling every person she encounters the good news!!
Right now, the doctors have samples of Nichole's cancer and they are testing those cancer cells to see how they react to certain types of Chemo treatments. They then will dose her with two different Chemo treatments at once (for a certain amount of time), then proceed with two different ones. They seem to be doing all that they can to attack this cancer with full force. Please pray that Nichole's body will heal quickly and be strengthened to endure these Chemo treatments. Her body doesn't handle Chemo very well, (she has gotten very sick, nauseous, and has been unable to keep food in her system) so she will need the Lord's grace and kindness to endure! Please begin praying for this now!
At present, Nichole seems to be doing well. She is completely off of pain medication, which seems miraculous in my mind, knowing the surgery she just had. She is taking short walks every two hours. She still isn't ready for visitors. Rather than checking in with Norm, I will try to keep you posted as to when she is ready, as I'm sure will Sue. If you aren't on Sue's email list, you can email her and ask to be added (lebersue@hotmail.com). I have been posting her email updates on the blog as well. Nichole and Norm are being well taken care of. Someone is at her side 24 hours a day to take care of her. People have been spending the night with her, and others have taken several hour shifts to be there to care for her. What a testimony of the Body of Christ to the doctors and nurses! I imagine that Nichole is the only one on her floor that has such enduring support! I'm not sure who those people are that have been caring for her, but thank you! Thank you for being a light and a testimony by caring so deeply for Nichole and the family.
I asked about the kids as well. Noah and Ansel are enjoying school more and more. However, all of their little worlds have been turned upside down, as you can imagine. They haven't had their "normal" life for quite some time now, and as you can imagine, this would be extremely difficult. Their mom hasn't been able to be mom. Dad has had to take on more responsibility, and evenings (as we all know!) trying to feed the kids, play with them, get them ready for bed, bathe them, etc, can be more than enough for mom and dad to handle together, let alone for Dad to do on his own. Pray for Norm! Along with caring for the kids, he has a lot to think about, and is caring for his sweet wife as well. And he is still going to work everyday. And we think our own life is overwhelming...take a moment to put yourself in Norm's shoes. Your life is a breeze, isn't it?
I asked Norm how he was doing. He said that he and Nichole are still trusting the Lord, knowing that God causes all things to work out for our good and for His glory. They have spoken in real terms about the future, and Nichole is prepared for heaven. Whether she will be there soon, or if God prolongs her life miraculously, she is ready. As she told me before, I will quote again. "Norm is not mine. He is the Lord's. My children are not mine. They belong to the Lord. He loves them more than I can, and He will take care of them. Of course I want to be there for them, but they would be okay without me." Once again, I am amazed at her perspective. Humble, and truly trusting in the Lord. Both she and Norm are trusting the Lord as they think about the real possibilities. Norm also said that they have been enjoying their time together, and laughing together. They have to be careful how much she laughs, because laughing hurts her tummy! Praise the Lord for this exhibition of joy in trial.
During another memorable conversation I had with Nichole she said this, "All that matters here on earth is that God's Kingdom is grown, and the church is built up. This trial seems to be accomplishing that, and I am so glad for that." Nichole has proven over and over that this is what her life is about. She has been boldly proclaiming the gospel in every circumstance, and has been such an encouragement to the body of Christ, building us up and encouraging us by her example of how to endure trials.
To honor Nichole, and to bring glory to God, reflect today on the things that are important to you. Could you say with Nichole that "all that matters is that God's Kingdom is grown, and the church is built up?" What in your life do you cling to that supercedes or clouds your vision? What is more important to you than God's priorities? What do you think about or worry about that doesn't matter? Resolve to cut these things out of your life and to focus on eternity. You could die tomorrow. Have you done all that you can today to honor God, spread the gospel, and build up the church?

Please Pray!!

Here is an update I received from Sue Leber last night. Please continue to pray for Nichole and Norm!

Therefore let everyone who is godly offer prayer to you at a time when you may be found; surely in the rush of great waters, they shall not reach him. You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with shouts of deliverance. Selah Ps.36:6, 7

Beloved, as I mentioned Monday, Norm and Josie were down with a flu bug. It seems it was a 24 hour one and they are doing better today. But I can’t say the same for Nichole- she is feeling a little nausea and running a little fever. But Norm says she’s of good spirits and clinging to Christ.
There has been some news from the doctors in regard to the lab work done on the tissue samples and lymph nodes taken during the surgery. There seems to be many cancer cells found in the lymph system sample (NOT GOOD NEWS) and the doctors are planning to start Chemo as soon as they can determine the best treatment for this type of cancer. The samples will be sent across the country and tested with different Chemo’s to see the most effective results before they can begin.
Although this is not the news we all were waiting for, it is the news God has planned for Nichole and the Greenes at this time. Nichole is fully aware of her purpose through this trial and has been witnessing to doctors, nurses, her mother and father, and yes- the hospital’s (female) Chaplin as well. Even after the doctor told her about the lab results, she was compelled to share to her nurse that it is Jesus Christ that she clings to and put all her hope in, then she shared with this women the gospel.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. Prov. 3:5-7 Pray! Pray! Pray !

R&R

Nichole is resting and recuperating at the hospital. She needs this time of peace and quiet to recuperate fully. This isn't a time for visiting. She really needs to rest her body and her voice, and asks not to be overwhelmed by visitors. One at a time is good, one that has checked with Norm, who is overseeing the visitor schedule. Nichole was able to walk today, and asks for your continued prayers.

Today Kurt and I (Julie) met Norm and the Greene kids at the "Fairmont Fair" down at church and spent the day with all nine kiddos while Norm went to spend time with Nichole. We had a great time, and the kids were a blast! They played all sorts of games, bounced around in bounce houses,ate lots of fair food, and won lots of fun (noisy) prizes. We have 5 oinking toy pigs running around our house right now, and I know I saw at least a couple in the bag the Greene kids brought home... Norm was really appreciative (haha)! As far as fairs go, this fair had the cheapest tickets and the best prize prices (not sure if that's good or bad)!
I spoke with Norm for a few minutes about Nichole. The news from the surgery is really good news, in light of all of the different possibilities they were facing. The cancer had not attached to the pelvic wall (which most doctors would not even operate on once they discovered it, but would stitch the patient back up and call it done). They also found that the cancer had affected little of her important internal organs, so they had to remove very little of that tissue. It seems that the doctors were encouraged by what they found. The only bad news is that they did discover another growth on the other side (from where they were looking) in a lymph node. They removed that growth, and will do chemo and radiation to try to stop that from growing any more. Norm seemed encouraged! On a pain scale, Nichole has said that she feels only a little pain- on a scale of 1 to 10, she feels like the pain is a "2". Praise the Lord! Nichole is sleeping a lot these days, and will need to rest for most of the day in the next couple of days. If you want to visit Nichole, please wait until at least Monday, then you can give Norm a call to see if Nichole is up for visitors on any particular day. Thank you for your understanding!


Camdyn and Josie posing for a snapshot


The girls (and Levi!) having fun



Cubby Bear (looks like he's in pain or losing his head or something!), McKinley and Josie

Norm with the kiddos- Levi, Josie, Ansel and Noah (Noah's holding their loot bag- a garbage bag with quite a bit in it...)

Friday Morning

Sue Leber sent me this email update. She is unable to send out a bulk email at this time (hotmail won't allow her) so here is the latest news.

I just spoke to Norm this morning. (Fri. 10/24 ) Nichole is doing great, it looks like she may be removed from the ICU by the end of the day or tomorrow, and they think about 10 days to recover in the hospital. THIS IS GOOD NEWS!There will be a much longer recovery time for Nichole once she is home. There was some conflicting stories at the hospital last night about the length of the surgery. It ended up not beginning until about 4 although they had asked her to come in earlier. It lasted only a few hours just as they expected and they were able to leave all surrounding organs alone. They did find very small C'cells in a lymph node in the pelvic area, which they removed. Which means the Lord must want to use Nichole to witness to more people, as she will undergo more radiation and chemo treatments.

The Surgery is Over

This is an email that was sent to me a few hours ago from Sue Leber. Praise the Lord! (Sorry about the misinformation on the last post).

I just got off the phone with Norm and they are closing the incision ( 7:55 pm) This is good news, they said if the surgery lasted about 3-5 hours then they probably got what they were looking for. Nichole should be moved to the recovery room soon.

Please pray for Nichole as she comes off the anesthesia. She is such a small girl, but needs strength!

Surgery Update

At around 7:00 or 7:30, the doctors said that they needed around 4 or 5 more hours to complete the surgery. It seems they are pursuing the cancer hard and doing all that they can to remove every bit of it. They are probably testing areas to see if the cancer cells are gone, then going back to cut them out as needed- the reason that it is taking a long time. I will update again hopefully in the morning, but if I do hear tonight I will post tonight. Keep praying!!

I just arrived home from the hospital. Nichole went into surgery about 3 pm this afternoon. It was such a joy to see her fully trusting the Lord and confident of His sovereignty. Norm is surrounded by both of their families and friends from the church. Please continue to pray for the kids (especially Ansiel and Noah) as they are adjusting to school. We should soon know the extent of the surgery. I'll try to keep you posted on what I hear. Thanks for praying for our sweet sister.

Surgery

Hello all! Nichole's surgery time was changed at the last-minute today. Instead of the original plan to go in at 3:00 and have the surgery begin at 5:00, she left shortly after noon and should be in surgery by 2:30 or 3:00. Please pray for Norm and Nichole, as well as the kids. The older ones likely understand in part what is happening, and we want them to learn to trust the Lord through this. Pray for Nichole and Norm's continued trust in the Lord, no matter the outcome of the surgery. Again, pray for the doctors as they perform the surgery. Pray that there would be no unwelcomed surprise findings, and that they would be able to take out all of the cancer! Wouldn't that be a blessing! I'll let you know as soon as I find out any details of the outcome.
In addition, please continue to pray for the boys as they are transitioning into the public school. It is quite a change for them both! Pray that they would be able to adjust to all of the new constraints (sitting in a classroom all day!), and that they would enjoy their new venture. It would be a great blessing to them if things went smoothly so there would be no additional challenges at this time in their lives. Pray for Noah and Ansel! Thanks.

Update

I received this update from Sue Leber today and I think it helps to answer some of your questions about the upcoming surgery.
Nichole will be going in for her surgery on Thursday 10/23. at 5:00 pm, she will need to be at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Burbank about 3 pm that day.
She and Norm ask for your prayers and the Lords strength through this time. They give thanks to God for so many of you who have come along side of them through this trial. Thanks for all your kindness and love.

Those that may want to visit Nichole as she recovers in the hospital, the Greenes have asked for you to speak with Norm the evening before your visit, in case she is not up to visitors and so she can rest and recover. She will be in ICU for a day or two if all goes well.
Norm and Nichole welcome prayer warriors to come on the day of surgery,
Thursday, 10/23 between 4-5 pm

I am hoping to speak with Nichole soon and post another update for you. Please continue to check the blog, so you can know how to pray for them.

Oops

Sorry about the confusion about the date of the surgery! It has been clarified by another of Nichole's friends in the last post. She will be having the surgery at 5:00p.m. on this coming Thursday, the 23rd. Mark your calendars and remember to pray for them. I will keep you posted.
If you are interested in helping the Greene's with anything, please email Sue Leber (lebersue@hotmail.com). She is coordinating all of the help for the Greenes. Shoot her an email and let her know that you are interested in helping, and she will send you the schedule. Thanks so much, Sue, for all that you are doing to help them out! Your eternal reward awaits!
Please continue to pray for the Greenes as they spend time together this week. Pray that their time is sweet, and that they continue to trust the Lord! He is the Great Physician, and will guide the hands of the surgeon, whether he knows it or not...isn't that amazing? God's sovereignty rules over all, including the details of the operation, the competence of the surgeon, the outcome, etc.
Let's continue to pray for them, and plead with the Lord for a successful surgery! We desire for Nichole to live many more profitable years. Her testimony of faith, her boldness with any who encounter her, her godly parenting and "wifing"... she has been through the fire and has remained faithful. Her's is an example for us to follow! Let us pray to God for His mercy and healing grace.

ALRIGHTY THEN!

I HAVE SPENT TIME WITH NICHOLE, AND SHE HAS A RADICAL SURGERY SCHEDULED FOR NEXT THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23. IT WILL BE A BIG SURGERY, VERY INVOLVED. SHE'LL HAVE A LONG IN-HOSPITAL RECOVERY TIME, AND SHE WILL BE VERY GLAD TO HAVE VISITORS N THE DAYS AND WEEKS FOLLOWING THE SURGERY, ESPECIALLY HER FRIENDS WHO ARE NURSES (JULIE.) PLEASE PRAY FOR HER PHYSICAL HEALTH, AND FOR THE PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH OF HER FAMILY WHILE SHE BE AWAY FROM HOME.

Surgery

I just spoke with Nichole a few minutes ago and she is doing well! She and Norm returned from Chicago yesterday where they had a few doctor visits, but mostly just enjoyed what they called their "second honeymoon". They enjoyed their time together and did many touristy things (visited the Sears Tower, and "painted the town red" in Nichole's terms). Thank you for your prayers for their time there.
The doctors there at the cancer treatment center confirmed that Nichole should proceed with the surgery, and told them that they would receive the best care here in Los Angeles. The surgery is scheduled for this Thursday at 5:00p.m., and should take 4 hours. This is a radical surgery, and will require quite a recovery period. Nichole will be in the hospital for a couple of weeks (at least), and will not be able to do much for quite a while after she comes home.
The doctors (5 total that Nichole has seen) have generally agreed that the surgery has somewhere around (probably less than) a 50% success rate- meaning that there is around a 50% chance that they will get all of the cancer and "cure" Nichole of her cancer. There are other possible complications that would decrease the success rate. Pray that the surgeon's do not find these "complications"!
Nichole has also asked that we pray for the people that she was able to witness to in Chicago. She had the opportunity to speak with several cancer patients, and some with little hope for survival. She also was able to be a light to doctors and nurses there. Pray that they will remember her hope and her perspective- as we have all witnessed, Nichole is facing this with such courage because of her hope in the Lord and her total trust in God. How can anyone not see this, even as they interact with her for a short period of time! Pray that many would search for the Lord through Nichole's testimony!
Ansel and Noah will be starting school soon (at the local school). Pray that this would be a smooth transition, not adding any emotional stress to the boys, but rather blessing them with friends and good teachers. Pray that they would get the best teachers, and would make friends quickly and settle in easily to the transition.
Nichole is also asking for prayer for her new doctor who will be performing the surgery. He has been called a "pioneer doctor" in his field, and will be using creative and new ideas for Nichole's surgery. Pray that he would be successful! Pray also for Nichole's testimony with him as she shares the gospel with him and displays Christ to him.
We have all been so encouraged to watch Nichole go through this trial and to hear of her faith in the Lord. Haven't you? Nichole is a glowing example of Christ and has blessed so many and encouraged all of us with her example. Please let her know how she has blessed you with a note or comment (here!). Your encouragement means a lot to them! I'm sure her testimony as she has gone through the fire has blessed you and touched your heart, and caused you to evaluate your own life and heart in light of her circumstances. Please let her know!
Lastly, I would ask you if you could consider helping the Greene's as they are finishing up their guest house. They need to have someone move in to help take care of the family while Nichole is unable, but several things need to happen for that to be possible. The most important of their needs is that of setting up a septic tank. If you have any experience with this (plumbing, etc.) please let me know. If you are handy, could do research, and take care of this for them, that would be great! Let's relieve the burden from them and help them out! Let's care for them and allow them to be blessed by the body of Christ, and I guarantee you will be blessed even more!! You can email me if you can help, or if you have any questions. kurtjulieandkids@gmail.com. Thank you again for your care and support of the Greene's, and please continue to pray for them during this time!!

Chicago!

Norm and Nichole left for Chicago today to see a specialist there. This is the "last opinion" before proceeding with the radical surgery the doctors here want to do. Praise the Lord that they were able to make this trip, and be comforted knowing that they've done their best and can rest in the Lord's care. Pray for the kids while they're away, and pray that they would receive the best care while there, and enjoy the time they have together! I'll try to keep everyone up to date with the news. Thank you on behalf of the Greenes for your care for them!

Decisions

I spoke with Nichole last night and again, was encouraged! Nichole is certainly leaving the sweet savor of Christ wherever she goes, and is a shining light for the gospel!
Yesterday, Nichole was invited to a "Cervical Cancer Convention" of sorts (at a Hilton!), and had the opportunity to interact with doctors and other patients that have experienced cervical cancer. Nichole was excited to tell me about her interview on camera. She was asked, "How are you dealing with you situation emotionally?" To which Nichole immediately launched into a gospel presentation. She told them of her hope in Christ, her eternal home, and her loving God. She was so excited for the gospel to be heard, and it sounds like the Lord gave her just the right words. The video may be circulated among doctors and others, so please pray that certain parts will NOT be edited out, as we know our media likes to do... Many, I'm sure, saw a sure hope in her eyes like none of the other patients had, and she spoke openly and clearly about the Lord! She would love it if you would pray with us that we will meet some of those people in heaven someday!
Nichole has also asked for prayer for her doctor, Dr. Friedman. He is Jewish, and he has been seeing Nichole since early on, and Nichole has had multiple opportunities to share the gospel with him. She may change doctors soon, but wants us all to pray for Dr. Friedman with her.
Norm and Nichole are waiting for the pathology reports to be seen by another doctor so they can make a decision about the surgery.
1. Please continue to pray for their wisdom in making a decision. Pray that Norm and Nichole would rest in God once the decision is made, knowing that they did their best, and that our Good God is in control, no matter what the outcome!
2. Please also pray for the kiddos! There will be a lot of people in and around the Greene household once again, which can be difficult on the kids. What precious kids they are!! Pray that the kids would band together, love on each other, and be a help around the house, as well as to be cooperative with all of the helpers.
Thank you, again, for your prayers and encouragement and help. Norm and Nichole covet your prayers through this fiery trial!

More Prayer, Please!

I think I could title every blog entry "pray", but I'll try to be a little creative (see above). I spoke with Nichole today, and she seemed energetic and hopeful. She talks about the cancer like it was a pesty rodent in her house- "Agh- they tell me it's gonna get me in a year- not if I can help it! I'm gonna do whatever I can to get rid of this..." I mean to say that she is in good spirits and hasn't been dragged down (okay, I'll admit I struggled to come up with a good anaolgy, and don't think that one was good). She is fighting for her life because of her kids and her husband, doing all that she can to try her best to beat this. She is still trusting in the Lord's sovereign hand, and resting in His goodness to her.
Nichole has been pursuing other doctors to get second opinions, and would appreciate your prayers for her to be able to get more answers through cancer specialists. She has an appointment with a specialist in her type of cancer (next Wednesday, I believe), and is looking at other possibilities. Pray that God would bring her to the places that He wants, and that she would receive adequate information to make difficult decisions. The surgery that her doctors want to do would be radical, to say the least. Her doctors are wanting to do that surgery now, but Nichole is holding off to explore just a few more possibilities. Pray for her! She is encouraged, but please continue to hold their sweet family up in prayer!
Please also pray that Nichole would find balance with being on the phone (doctors, specialists, etc.) . She is finding that she is on the phone a lot, and is wanting to be cautious with that, since she has four precious little ones to care for! Thanks again on Nichole's behalf. She has been tremendously blessed by all of the phone calls and notes, the care she is given- the support of the Body of Christ.
One request... though Nichole would answer every call if she could, please opt to send her a note with your encouragement, so she can take the time when she has it to read and be encouraged! Thank you for your understanding! You can email me if you need her address! kurtjulieandkids@gmail.com

Please Pray!

Greetings! Nichole asked me to update her blog again (it's been a while!) so I will gladly do so. Nichole has recently received bad news... there is growth that the doctors weren't aware of that was detected in her most recent testing. Nichole can feel the pressure of the tumor (we assume), and the doctors want to operate in the next week or two. She hasn't been told the complete diagnosis at this point, but should hear tomorrow. Nichole continues to trust the Lord and rely on His promises, though it is admittedly difficult! This morning she told me, "I'm not going down without a fight!" She is seeking all the help she can get, and has the advocacy of so many at Grace.
1. Pray that the Lord would lead them to the best decision, quickly.
2. Pray that they would be at peace with the choice that they make, knowing that the Lord had made the decision before the beginning of time.
3. Pray that Nichole would heal quickly.
4. Pray that she would savor each moment with her family and precious kids.
5. Pray for the body of Christ to overwhelm them with support in every way.
6. Pray that their faith would be unwavering.
Please consider a way that you can show your support for the Greene family. There are many ways to help! Your prayers, a note of encouragement, help with the kids, spiritual encouragement for both Norm and Nichole, the kids, etc. This is your opportunity to serve and uphold a struggling family in the body of Christ! I guarantee you will be blessed beyond measure. Don't waste the opportunity!

Cervical cancer

This is not Nichole. My name is JenM, and I am a friend of Nichole's-have been for 17 years, we were in each others' weddings. She was one of my candlelighters, and I was one of her bridesmaids. Her wedding was performed in the Baptist church I attended as a child.
Nichole is feeling tired today. She is resting while I type. Nichole wants to meet other young women fighting cervical cancer, and that is why I titled this post, "cervical cancer", in the hopes that ijt will come up in a search for cervical cancer.

June Updates

Week 4
The blessing poured in as the flood waters built up. Our family was sieged with yet another virus. In the course of approximate 2 months, our family endured 3 virus. By God's amazing grace, I got one virus, the mildest of the three. My blood work was good throughout the chemo. The side effects hit me hard. At one point I turned to Norm and told him maybe I should quit, it's too hard. Dr. B. said he wouldn't let me. At that point, I continued on trusting the Lord. If it's the Lord's will I live I must continue to fight. My Lord, my family, and friends were my motivation. I also didn't want to exchange my comfort for my mission field. You see that dreaded chemo room was my platform for the gospel. Right in the middle of a roomful of people without hope on their way to hell. How could I not at least share the hope that I have! Looking back now, I wish I shared more. Rachel who has melathusoloma lives nears church, Nadine who is terminal, a 32 year old man going through a divorce and testicular cancer, an Australian woman with reoccurring ovarian cancer, a woman baffling breast cancer and another woman with stage 3 cervical cancer that metatasized And there are others. the Lord knows them, please pray for all of their souls.

Week 5
There was a time I really felt like I could not go on. Dr.B. even hesitated as he saw me suffering. I probably lived off of the IV fluid, my veins are becoming worn out. God was kind to allow me to find a place near home to be hydrated. Bitter sweet, I wasn't in the battlefield/mission field with the others in the chemo room. instead I was isolated with my dear sisters in the Lord, who sacrificially gave of their time to sit with me in my sickness. Thank you Amy, Dinah, and Julie.
Friday morning, Dr. Friedman (GYN Oncology), Dr. Berkwitz (Medical Oncology) , " the Medicine Man" Dr. Ellabrook (External Beam Radiation Oncologist), and Dr. Botnik (Internal Radition Oncologist) all met together to make life changing decisions for their patients. The Lord knew I could not take anymore, so I believe He prompt my Dr.'s to say enough with the chemo. So I got the good news over the weekend. No more chemo!!!

Happy Times

Nichole is getting her energy back and is enjoying her kiddos once again. The treatments made it very difficult to spend any time with the kids (other than them climbing around on her while she rested). It has been a blessing to watch them interact again, and Nichole has had the opportunity to take each of the kids out for a one-on-one date. The kids were buzzing around as usual on Friday so it was a little difficult to corral them for the picture. Noah (bless his little heart!) had just been bit by a yellow jacket on his finger, as you can see him holding onto it.

Nichole and Norm are still strong in their trust in the Lord, but have reached another decision time as the treatments are over and they will be reevaluating soon.

Pray for them- that they would make wise decisions as to how to proceed from here, and that Nichole and Norm would not be anxious about what is to come. Pray that Nichole would be committed to trusting and hoping in the Lord- using her time to seek Him whole-heartedly, and committed to her family- rather than using her time to be searching and reading and trying to find a cure. This is exactly what she verbalized to me when I spent time with her.

She is so appreciative for everyone's support and help. Please continue to pray for the Greene family!

Feeling Better

Nichole is feeling much better! The tumor is shrinking with each visit, which is indeed good news! An important doctor visit is coming up, and Nichole is a little nervous about hearing what this somewhat pessimistic and very direct doctor has to say. He is top in his field though, so she's prepared to take it! Nichole is definitely feeling much better, and is able to do quite a bit more around the house these days. Please continue to pray for her body to heal.
Spiritually, Nichole is still thriving. She is trusting the Lord in all things. She has decided that it would be best to focus on her family and her communion with the Lord in all of her spare minutes, rather than reading and searching out alternate cancer treatments. Because of all that her body is enduring, she is experiencing emotional waves as well. Please pray that she would not succumb to temptation to depressing thoughts when the emotions waver. You can only imagine how difficult it would be!
Nichole is continually thankful for all that the church is doing to serve her family during this trial. Please continue to pray!

First-hand from Nichole written July 1st

I am told that if I write in my blog people will read it. All this computer stuff is a little foreign to me so I have someone entering on my behalf. It also amazes me that people would be interested and amused by the happenings in my life. So for what it is worth, here is my journey through this fire, and what a blessing that I don't have to go it alone, but have you all to join me. Many of you are not merely spectators but active participants. Thank you all. I pray you will be blessed!
I am 32 years old, 17 years in the Lord. The Lord has brought me through many fires, but none as fierce as this. Mid December is about when it started or at least when I was alerted to it. Through many tests mid April I was diagnosed with stage 2 cervical cancer. They found a very large tumor the size of a baseball. Just about a week before I started treatment we had a big birthday party for my 5 year old son (one of 4 children). On top of one of his gifts, he received a colorful baseball. I often try to get rid of that ominous ball by throwing it outside, but somehow it keeps turning up in plain view, as if it is screaming "look at me! Here I am!" - a painful reminder of what is inside of me. Being bounced from doctor to doctor- 5 to be exact, they came up with a 5 week intense treatment plan of chemo along with external radiation, followed by 5 weeks more of internal radiation. With excitement in their eyes and sheer determination to "win" they set me off on this great adventure. I have often said I feel like I am in a video game with all the high tech laser beams and chemical warfare all trying to get the bad guy.
Week 1 Cisplatnium- the worst nauseating chemo you can get. 60 mg. Sick as a dog. Shaking with fear of my first treatment I sit down in the battle room(chemo room) with all the other troops (patients)
I sat next to a dear saint filled with the Spirit, uttering words of encouragement and praise to God, and I was brought to tears at God's glorious goodness of cradling me into the fire. All because of her kind and sweet speech worshipping our Savior.
Week 2 I was so sick that I had to go down for hydration. All the way to Burbank. To my mission field. Like Jonah, I am convinced, God has put me on the mission field, to cancer patients and those who care for them. Praise the Lord! I always wanted to be a missionary. The Lord has a granted my hearts desire, I have a mission field I cannot escape! Pray for those in the chemo room who have heard the glorious Gospel of our Lord, all because I was throwing up! God causes all things to work together for the good. Romans 8:28 Just about every time I was down there getting hydrated, I was given the privilege of sharing the Gospel. With everyone we meet there are two goals we should have: Evangelism if they are unsaved and edification if they are the Saviors'. Proclaim and build up. This is one way we can glorify God with all we come in contact.
Week 3 Still sick as a dog. Blood work good. Losing weight. "What about the kids?" they all ask. This question also haunted me one night in May. I wrestled with it and was unable to sleep well. If I die I'll go to Heaven, but what about the kids. Sometime before dawn the Lord brought me rest to mind and body. They belong to the Lord. They are not mine, He cares for them I need not worry, so in this I don't. Jesus said if you love brother or sister, son or daughter more than Me, than you are not worthy of Me. I love my kids and want to see them grow, but I want Christ more! So when people ask what about the kids, I know they are asking who is caring for them while I am ill. My answer to them is I go to a wonderful church filled with people who love the Lord and want to serve Him and me.
So you my friends, any of you who have served in any way, rides, childcare, cleaning, meals, (plummers). You are a witness of Christ to my doctors and many others. We will be a witness to the world by the love we have for one another, we learn in 1 John 1. So thank you all who have proclaimed the Gospel indeed, and the labor of your love is going out to the San Fernando and Santa Clarita Valley!

UTI

Please pray for Nichole! She is still feeling relatively good, but has a urinary tract infection and her white blood cell count is low. She is still able to take her treatments, but doctors want those white blood cells to be up. Please pray that the family would stay healthy, so that there is no added risks or added stress for them. Nichole and Norm were able to enjoy a little break this morning and went out to breakfast together- just the two of them. They enjoyed the quiet time together. Praise the Lord!!

Today

I spent the morning with Nichole and again was blessed! Her spirits are high, and she is still resting in the Lord's providence even though she has dealt with some pretty "difficult" (stubborn, strange, threatening, ungracious, no bed-side manner) medical professionals recently. She recounted to me how she was able to preach the gospel to two more doctors while having a procedure done, and was praising God for the opportunities. She is finding more strength these days as the chemo is done, but still needs to pace herself. She is a whopping 102 pounds (at 5 ft. 6 in.), so is trying to put on some weight. She is looking and feeling much better, yet still needs our prayers and the Lord's kind hand to draw her to Himself each day.
Nichole is in the middle of having internal radiation treatments (weekly). Although the doctors warned her about severe pain during each treatment and after, Nichole is so thankful to our gracious God for keeping her from such pain. She is on low dose pain medication and is doing remarkably well- much better than anticipated. "Praise the Lord" is a phrase that spills out of her mouth heartily and regularly throughout the day... consider your circumstances compared with hers, and give the Lord praise for all of his kindness to you!

Life Perspective Posted by Julie Gebhards from June 2008

Well, I had the privilege of spending most of the day with the Greenes yesterday, and we again were blessed by the Lord. Despite the 113 degree heat (which I didn't notice until we left and saw the temp gauge in the car), we had a productive and blessed time. Thankfully, even though there were 9 kids running around, Nichole and I were able to talk for a significant amount of time and she shared with me her thoughts, concerns and hope. I say hope (rather than hopes) because she has one hope, and it is fixed on one thing- Jesus Christ. She would never suggest that dark thoughts haven't crossed her mind, or that she hasn't struggled to understand why this could happen. But she hasn't given up the fight to reject those thoughts and continue to trust in the Sovereignty of a Loving God who hasn't left her. Here are some of Nichole's words which were a great encouragement to me.
~"My husband is not mine. He's the Lord's. My kids are not mine. They too belong to the Lord. His love for them and care for them is greater than mine. God will take care of them. They'd be fine without me." Wow, a reflection of true humility, as well as abiding trust.
~"God is good. He is using this cancer for my good, and the good of others (she doesn't know how many others- and won't know until she meets the Lord!). I know that He is good and is being glorified through this." I am certain of that as well. So many have been blessed to hear of Nichole's faithfulness through this trial.
~"Only two things matter. That the lost are reached with the gospel, and that Christ's church is built up. That's all that matters, and I think and hope and have seen this happening through this trial."
~"I've been thinking about heaven a lot in the past few days. The best-worst-case-scenario is that I leave this world and go to heaven to be with the Lord- how bad can that be? So I leave earth a little earlier than some... I won't have to worry about sin, and I'll be with the Lord!" Let's all learn from Nichole's eternal perspective. Wow, we can get so caught up in worldly thinking! It's almost nauseating thinking about how we actually care about such banal things like clothing styles, hollywood actors, and looking 5 pounds overweight in light of spiritual thoughts of life and death.
Nichole is so thankful for all that the body of Christ has done for her family through this trial, and wanted to make sure that everyone knew how grateful she and Norm are. The Foundry has already been such a blessing to them, and she wanted all to know that. So many people have served them and have been a testimony to the world of how the Body of Christ cares for each other. Let's shine brighter!

Please PRAY for the Greene Family

Please continue to pray for them as the road ahead is bumpy. Although Nichole was able to function much more yesterday than last week, she received some troubling news Wednesday. The chemo and radiation treatments have had little to no effect on the cancer at this point. (Doesn't that shed some light on the nature of our conversation, just one day after that news??) She begins internal radiation soon, so please pray that the Lord would extend His healing hand to her and miraculously shrink the tumors, if He would be glorified in that. Please also pray that Nichole and Norm would trust the Lord whole-heartedly and not let seeds of doubt creep in. Nichole would also like prayer for balancing her thoughts and time between wisely seeking alternate methods of healing, yet trusting in the Lord for whatever He does in her body. She doesn't want to become fixated on the cure, but maintain her fixation with the Savior.