My Return to Church

Gathered together in His name

Matthew 18:20

I am currently a member of Spirit of Faith Christian Center in Temple Hills, Maryland. I have enjoyed attending the services there for over 7 years and feel as though my walk with Christ has been enhanced as a result of the teachings. When I found out I had cancer, I turned to the church to offer me inspiration and encouragement to fight this battle. Once I began my radiation treatments I no longer had the strength to attend church services. At that point I began listening to and studying the works of Joel Osteen. It brought me great satisfaction. I currently read Joel Osteen teachings each morning to begin my day and listen to his teachings on a regular basis. However, I knew I had to get back into the church and fellowship with others.

I stayed away from the church because of weakness and large crowds. My immune system had already been and continues to be compromised and I did not want to contract any illnesses. However, I longed to be back with my congregation and praise and worship my Lord & Savior. Well guess what? On Sunday, July 14th I prayed and made my journey to church. I prayed that God would protect me from all germs and that I'd have the energy to praise Him! He came through. I thoroughly enjoyed my return to my church home and look forward to attending on a regular basis. Isn't God awesome? Yes He is!!!

A Well-Needed Vacation

I have the best sister in the world! It's hard when people find out that I have cancer. A lot of people don't know what to say or how to act around me. I'm still me, just being a little challenged right now. My sister is one of these people. She always asks, "Are you eating?" It's her way of showing that she loves me and is concerned about my progress. It's weird sometimes because she's my sister and we've been through this so many times with my mom and my aunts. But just like it was different for me when I was diagnosed, it's different for someone whose protected me throughout their life and there's no way they can make this go away.

This past July 4th my sister wanted to take me away to one of her favorite places to help me relax and not think about doctor appointments and chemotherapy treatments. We went to the Outerbanks in North Carolina. It is such a serene place. Although it was a holiday weekend, it wasn't very busy and I was able to enjoy my time there. Now my sister had the chance to really see me eat. The seafood there is so fresh and prepared deliciously. I plan to go back when I've completed my treatments and I am 100% healthy.

They say you can't choose your family. I love my sister and wouldn't trade her for another. She'll never know how much this vacation has helped me get through my last three treatments. This was a well-needed break that I didn't even know I needed until I was there. My next treatment is July 23rd. Although I am not looking forward to it, I know it's one treatment closer to the finish line. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13).