Dear Sock Kim,
Drink in your blessings, drink of the living water, drink your
e for Every blessing in Christ
n for Nearness of God in trials
e for Each loved one waiting to see the Hand of God
r for Redemption to abundant life
c for Call upon His Name
a for Absence of fear
l for Love, Life and Leaning on the Rock
Saturday, 30 September 2006
A surprise trip to SGH
SK was in bad shape this morning. She had to get re-shaped at the hospital.
Well done, Dr Chua. He inserted a feeding tube. This will enable SK to maintain her nutrient intake with ease. Which also means steady weight maintenance and good immunity. Which also also means no more pain and torture while eating, drinking, swallowing and talking and no more output. Yippee!
Thank you each and everyone one of you, for praying for SK, for the doctor's wisdom to provide SK the best advice and treatment, the most beneficial. We continue to pray for relief from any discomfort. We continue to pray for a strong sense of God's comfort and presence.
Well done, Dr Chua. He inserted a feeding tube. This will enable SK to maintain her nutrient intake with ease. Which also means steady weight maintenance and good immunity. Which also also means no more pain and torture while eating, drinking, swallowing and talking and no more output. Yippee!
Thank you each and everyone one of you, for praying for SK, for the doctor's wisdom to provide SK the best advice and treatment, the most beneficial. We continue to pray for relief from any discomfort. We continue to pray for a strong sense of God's comfort and presence.
Stay home Saturday
Thirty days till the end of RT ...
It has not been any better since treatment started. More symptoms are being experienced - headache, dizziness, nausea, pain. Medication has been prescribed.
BUT the ear seems to be hearing better. Thank God !!!
It has not been any better since treatment started. More symptoms are being experienced - headache, dizziness, nausea, pain. Medication has been prescribed.
BUT the ear seems to be hearing better. Thank God !!!
Friday, 29 September 2006
TGIF and RT- 13
Thirteen down, twenty more to go ... thirty-one days till the end of RT.
Drinking is a longsuffering and painstaking activity now. Eating is out of the question. Talking is also getting to be difficult. Please continue to PRAY for SK as each day seems to get progressively more difficult.
Thank you for praying ...
Drinking is a longsuffering and painstaking activity now. Eating is out of the question. Talking is also getting to be difficult. Please continue to PRAY for SK as each day seems to get progressively more difficult.
Thank you for praying ...
Thursday, 28 September 2006
RT - 12
Twelve down, twenty-one more to go ... thirty-two days till the end of RT.
Thank you to HT that RT time is back at 8.40am, morning RT seems better. SK can take a proper rest in the afternoons.
Thank you to HT that RT time is back at 8.40am, morning RT seems better. SK can take a proper rest in the afternoons.
Wednesday, 27 September 2006
RT - 11
Eleven down, twenty-two more to go ... thirty-three days till the end of RT.
Despite the ulcers and painful mouth and throat, let us persevere and PRAY, that SK can continue to take God's love potion to maintain her strength, immunity and health.
Despite the ulcers and painful mouth and throat, let us persevere and PRAY, that SK can continue to take God's love potion to maintain her strength, immunity and health.
Tuesday, 26 September 2006
The Angig Contest
SK is getting very xian of the word enercal ... can all of you think of new names to encourage SK to drink her annakel. If possible, everyday, it would have a new name!
Time to get creative, friends!
Please put in Comments.
Time to get creative, friends!
Please put in Comments.
Driver Alert
We are encountering some changes in RT times. Today, SK was informed that tomorrow's RT will be pushed back to 2pm. We are not sure if RT times will be given on a day to day basis from now on. But if this is going to be the case, then all drivers would need to be alerted of the appointment time only the day before. Will let you know ...
RT - 10
Ten down, twenty-three more to go ... thirty-four days till the end of RT.
The journey ahead seems long and ardous. Please PRAY for SK to be able to eat and drink with more ease. Meal times have become a slow and painful process because of the ulcers. Please PRAY that the dragon tail leaf drink will sooth and even heal the ulcers.
This evening SK has her BSF class meeting. Please PRAY for strength, for her to be able to teach well despite her bad ear and painful mouth. How real it is for SK to live the lesson out, that suffering in God's will produces fruit, obeying God sometimes results in unjust suffering and suffering for God produces perseverance, character and hope.
The journey ahead seems long and ardous. Please PRAY for SK to be able to eat and drink with more ease. Meal times have become a slow and painful process because of the ulcers. Please PRAY that the dragon tail leaf drink will sooth and even heal the ulcers.
This evening SK has her BSF class meeting. Please PRAY for strength, for her to be able to teach well despite her bad ear and painful mouth. How real it is for SK to live the lesson out, that suffering in God's will produces fruit, obeying God sometimes results in unjust suffering and suffering for God produces perseverance, character and hope.
Monday, 25 September 2006
RT - 9
Nine down, twenty-four more to go ... thirty-five days till the end of RT.
Thank God for providing drivers PS, AG, CF, AK and KH for this week. Tried and tested, must leave SK's place by 8am.
Thank God for providing drivers PS, AG, CF, AK and KH for this week. Tried and tested, must leave SK's place by 8am.
Sunday, 24 September 2006
Sunny Sunday
Thank God for a new day, it is now thirty-six days till the end of RT.
Yesterday, SK went for her usual early morning BSF meeting. It is amazing, such an encouragement to all of us, that she completed and handed in her registration card for 2007. Today, SK stayed home to rest.
Thanks to her BSF friends that she could bring home with her special home-made chicken soup and dragon tail drink, to boost her strength and contain the ulcers that are beginning to show up.
The combination of having headache, nausea and painful ulcers, makes a simple and enjoyable activity of eating or drinking most difficult. Please pray that SK will be able to drink her Enercal. If she can still eat, she will supplement her diet with 4 cups of Enercal a day. If eating is simply not possible, then 8 cups of Enercal a day.
Do pray that the Lord will help SK to ENJOY drinking Enercal everyday, that she will not develop any aversion, any funny smell. But that it will be fragrant, it will be a delightful taste to her mouth.
THANK YOU for all your prayers ... much, much appreciated.
Yesterday, SK went for her usual early morning BSF meeting. It is amazing, such an encouragement to all of us, that she completed and handed in her registration card for 2007. Today, SK stayed home to rest.
Thanks to her BSF friends that she could bring home with her special home-made chicken soup and dragon tail drink, to boost her strength and contain the ulcers that are beginning to show up.
The combination of having headache, nausea and painful ulcers, makes a simple and enjoyable activity of eating or drinking most difficult. Please pray that SK will be able to drink her Enercal. If she can still eat, she will supplement her diet with 4 cups of Enercal a day. If eating is simply not possible, then 8 cups of Enercal a day.
Do pray that the Lord will help SK to ENJOY drinking Enercal everyday, that she will not develop any aversion, any funny smell. But that it will be fragrant, it will be a delightful taste to her mouth.
THANK YOU for all your prayers ... much, much appreciated.
Friday, 22 September 2006
TGIF and Resting ...
Thirty-eight days till the end of RT.
The cancer and its treatment is taking a toll
--- on Mum. She is 75. She is up from 6am till midnight, doing the general house-cleaning, preparing meals and boiling drinks although her legs, her knees are not good. She goes back to Batu Pahat to check on Dad frequently, too. She is very tired. Please pray for her strength (physical, emotional and spiritual) and good health.
--- on SK and her weight. She has physical changes to cope with. There is dryness in the mouth and throat, ulcers are coming out, dryness of the "burnt" skin. She is tired, having headaches and nausea, for most part of the day.
Mum has lost her cooking skills over the years that she has not been cooking. Her meals are usually the same and rather bland, such that the food seems to have a funny taste. Knowing that it is important to maintain constant weight, eating seems such a frustrating task. Worse still, food looks unappetising and nauseating.
Before and when RT just started, SK put on 2 kg. But over the past few days, she is beginning to lose weight. Please pray for SK's good and strong health. She cannot afford to be weak, to get low immunity, to get sick. Please pray ...
The cancer and its treatment is taking a toll
--- on Mum. She is 75. She is up from 6am till midnight, doing the general house-cleaning, preparing meals and boiling drinks although her legs, her knees are not good. She goes back to Batu Pahat to check on Dad frequently, too. She is very tired. Please pray for her strength (physical, emotional and spiritual) and good health.
--- on SK and her weight. She has physical changes to cope with. There is dryness in the mouth and throat, ulcers are coming out, dryness of the "burnt" skin. She is tired, having headaches and nausea, for most part of the day.
Mum has lost her cooking skills over the years that she has not been cooking. Her meals are usually the same and rather bland, such that the food seems to have a funny taste. Knowing that it is important to maintain constant weight, eating seems such a frustrating task. Worse still, food looks unappetising and nauseating.
Before and when RT just started, SK put on 2 kg. But over the past few days, she is beginning to lose weight. Please pray for SK's good and strong health. She cannot afford to be weak, to get low immunity, to get sick. Please pray ...
Thursday, 21 September 2006
RT - 8
Eight down, twenty-five more to go ... thirty-nine days till the end of RT.
We thank the Lord for today, the last day for RT this week. Tomorrow SK has a break from RT as the IMRT machine will be going through some maintenance work.
Headache every afternoon. Followed by nausea. This seems to be the pattern now. Please pray for SK to be able to go through this difficult and uncomfortable time.
We thank the Lord for today, the last day for RT this week. Tomorrow SK has a break from RT as the IMRT machine will be going through some maintenance work.
Headache every afternoon. Followed by nausea. This seems to be the pattern now. Please pray for SK to be able to go through this difficult and uncomfortable time.
Wednesday, 20 September 2006
RT - 7
Seven down, twenty-six more to go ... forty days till the end of RT.
Last day of RT has been pushed back to Mon 30 Oct.
Headache, headache, everyday headache, in the afternoon. Don't know why ... please pray for the headache to go away.
Last day of RT has been pushed back to Mon 30 Oct.
Headache, headache, everyday headache, in the afternoon. Don't know why ... please pray for the headache to go away.
Tuesday, 19 September 2006
RT - 6
We praise God, SK had her weekly meeting with Dr Wee this morning so she could clarify a few things with him.
(1) The “fluish and weak body” is due to the RT. He said, a few hours after RT, she may feel this way. It is flu-like but not flu. All she needs is, to lie down, rest and the feeling will go off by itself. No need to take flu medication.
(2) The funny smell and nausea that SK is beginning to experience is normal. He prescribed medication for nausea.
(3) The migraine attack is simply a headache, not from RT, but from other causes. Most likely the specs.
(4) The “Stage 2” mentioned on 5 Sep was determined based on the MRI report. He asked SK to focus on getting well.
(5) Dr Melvin Chua, further prescribed (a) Biotene mouthwash spray (b) Nystatin
We thank God, the Radiographer informed SK, the IMRT machine needs to go for maintenance this Friday (22 Sep). Meaning no RT this Friday, so the RT schedule will be pushed back one day. Last RT will be on Monday 30 Oct.
We praise God again, SK's weight is still holding up. Do pray for even more weight gain.
We thank God again, that tonight, SK was teaching Homiletics at BSF. How wonderful, still serving God ever so faithfully. Do pray for her safety as she gets home about 11pm.
(1) The “fluish and weak body” is due to the RT. He said, a few hours after RT, she may feel this way. It is flu-like but not flu. All she needs is, to lie down, rest and the feeling will go off by itself. No need to take flu medication.
(2) The funny smell and nausea that SK is beginning to experience is normal. He prescribed medication for nausea.
(3) The migraine attack is simply a headache, not from RT, but from other causes. Most likely the specs.
(4) The “Stage 2” mentioned on 5 Sep was determined based on the MRI report. He asked SK to focus on getting well.
(5) Dr Melvin Chua, further prescribed (a) Biotene mouthwash spray (b) Nystatin
We thank God, the Radiographer informed SK, the IMRT machine needs to go for maintenance this Friday (22 Sep). Meaning no RT this Friday, so the RT schedule will be pushed back one day. Last RT will be on Monday 30 Oct.
We praise God again, SK's weight is still holding up. Do pray for even more weight gain.
We thank God again, that tonight, SK was teaching Homiletics at BSF. How wonderful, still serving God ever so faithfully. Do pray for her safety as she gets home about 11pm.
Monday, 18 September 2006
RT - 5
Praises and Thanks to God ~
This morning’s session went well, it started punctually, ended at 8.23am and SK was home by 9am. The mask is so tight, suffocating and uncomfortable. After taking it off, after getting up from lying down position ... she looked dazed and felt tipsy, I mean dizzy.
Quite an adventurous day. SK left home about 11.30am to go to work. Next stop, the Immigration Office to apply for her Mum's long term pass. Surprise, surprise, it was so easy. After about an hour's wait and less than five minutes with the officer, all done. Mum has been given 3 years, up to Dec 2009, according to the expiry date of the passport. Will be ready, can collect tomorrow. After that, she met someone before going home. She got home about 4pm.
And all this time, she was feeling “fluish” and weak. It was scary, she thought she might pengsan along the way. SK chin phai see.
Lesson learnt : Should not venture out alone, espesially to public places.
This morning’s session went well, it started punctually, ended at 8.23am and SK was home by 9am. The mask is so tight, suffocating and uncomfortable. After taking it off, after getting up from lying down position ... she looked dazed and felt tipsy, I mean dizzy.
Quite an adventurous day. SK left home about 11.30am to go to work. Next stop, the Immigration Office to apply for her Mum's long term pass. Surprise, surprise, it was so easy. After about an hour's wait and less than five minutes with the officer, all done. Mum has been given 3 years, up to Dec 2009, according to the expiry date of the passport. Will be ready, can collect tomorrow. After that, she met someone before going home. She got home about 4pm.
And all this time, she was feeling “fluish” and weak. It was scary, she thought she might pengsan along the way. SK chin phai see.
Lesson learnt : Should not venture out alone, espesially to public places.
Starting our second week
Five down, twenty-eight more to go ... and thirty-nine days till the end of RT.
We are travelling along this unknown journey with you, SK. Knowing that God has prepared the way is such a great comfort.
So sit back and enjoy this -
An exasperated mother, whose son was always getting into mischief, finally asked him "How do you expect to get into Heaven?" The boy thought it over and said, "Well, I'll run in and out and in and out and keep slamming the door until God says, 'For Heaven's sake, Peter, come in or stay out!'"
We are travelling along this unknown journey with you, SK. Knowing that God has prepared the way is such a great comfort.
So sit back and enjoy this -
An exasperated mother, whose son was always getting into mischief, finally asked him "How do you expect to get into Heaven?" The boy thought it over and said, "Well, I'll run in and out and in and out and keep slamming the door until God says, 'For Heaven's sake, Peter, come in or stay out!'"
Sunday, 17 September 2006
Wonderful Weekend
Praise God, SK has this two day break from RT. Counting down, it is forty days till the end of RT.
After BSF LM yesterday, SK made egg croissant for breakfast for mum, sis and herself, then took a nap as she felt a bit flu-ish. Rest of the day was a rojak of chicken rice, relax time, steamed ubi kueh and house cleaning time. In between was the bad left ear, the dry mouth and the lesser and thicker saliva.
For now, eating and drinking are the hardest activities. [Ha ha, BL and Homiletics are chicken feed!] Believe it or not - water, barley, fungus drink, chrysanthemum tea - now have a funny "smell" such that it makes SK want to throw up. She is very good at it, she uses the merlion technique. Her mouth is getting xian of the same food and drink. So she has been drinking honey and miso soup to quench her dry mouth.
(Thank you, CF)
Tomorrow is the beginning of the second week of RT. Monday's RT starts at 8am. Thereafter till the last RT, it is 8.40am.
(Thank you, HT)
Drivers, please pick up SK at least 45 minutes before appointment time. Thank you for your driving ministry. By doing this, you are helping SK to get all the rest she needs ... she really appreciates what you are doing.
(Thank you, AG, AK, CF, ES, KH, LY, PL, SC, SH, SW, WY, YF)
All in all, we THANK our LORD !!! AMEN !!!
After BSF LM yesterday, SK made egg croissant for breakfast for mum, sis and herself, then took a nap as she felt a bit flu-ish. Rest of the day was a rojak of chicken rice, relax time, steamed ubi kueh and house cleaning time. In between was the bad left ear, the dry mouth and the lesser and thicker saliva.
For now, eating and drinking are the hardest activities. [Ha ha, BL and Homiletics are chicken feed!] Believe it or not - water, barley, fungus drink, chrysanthemum tea - now have a funny "smell" such that it makes SK want to throw up. She is very good at it, she uses the merlion technique. Her mouth is getting xian of the same food and drink. So she has been drinking honey and miso soup to quench her dry mouth.
(Thank you, CF)
Tomorrow is the beginning of the second week of RT. Monday's RT starts at 8am. Thereafter till the last RT, it is 8.40am.
(Thank you, HT)
Drivers, please pick up SK at least 45 minutes before appointment time. Thank you for your driving ministry. By doing this, you are helping SK to get all the rest she needs ... she really appreciates what you are doing.
(Thank you, AG, AK, CF, ES, KH, LY, PL, SC, SH, SW, WY, YF)
All in all, we THANK our LORD !!! AMEN !!!
Friday, 15 September 2006
Report from SK
Oh no, cold/flu virus attacking again ??
Thursday night was a rather sleepless night. So after RT this morning, SK had to ZZZZZzzzzz a while. It was raining, so the weather was nice and cool. However, SK woke up feeling a bit tired and weak, somewhat like last week. Please PRAY against getting sick.
BSF LM tomorrow, must finish up prep quick. SK's koh-lidder will do the demo for Closing Activity. Must be brave, we have visitors.
Thursday night was a rather sleepless night. So after RT this morning, SK had to ZZZZZzzzzz a while. It was raining, so the weather was nice and cool. However, SK woke up feeling a bit tired and weak, somewhat like last week. Please PRAY against getting sick.
BSF LM tomorrow, must finish up prep quick. SK's koh-lidder will do the demo for Closing Activity. Must be brave, we have visitors.
RT - 4 and TGIF
Four down, twenty-nine more to go ... and forty-two days till the end of RT. Thank the LORD these numbers keep getting more encouraging and favourable all the time.
Today is Friday, the last of RT for the week. SK does not need to go to the hospital over the weekends. A short 2 day break from RT.
THANKS to all our helpers this week - Angie, Chuay Fen, Poi Leng, Ruby, Cyndi, PS, Edith, Geok Hong, Mary, Shuli and SK's mum and ALL our VIPS who are PRAYING along.
Give thanks ...
Today is Friday, the last of RT for the week. SK does not need to go to the hospital over the weekends. A short 2 day break from RT.
THANKS to all our helpers this week - Angie, Chuay Fen, Poi Leng, Ruby, Cyndi, PS, Edith, Geok Hong, Mary, Shuli and SK's mum and ALL our VIPS who are PRAYING along.
Give thanks ...
Thursday, 14 September 2006
RT - 3
Three down, thirty more to go ... and forty-three days till the end of RT.
Patience, dear friends, much patience.
And prayer, dear friends, much prayer.
For now, we will try to keep the excitement down. The shouts of joy, the praises, the thanksgiving, will certainly build up to a grand celebration on Friday 27 Oct.
6.23pm Hmmm ... migraine again, not sure what's the cause - is it because of the specs? This morning, dry mouth was surprisingly better, but now getting dry again. SK is still learning to take afternoon naps.
Patience, dear friends, much patience.
And prayer, dear friends, much prayer.
For now, we will try to keep the excitement down. The shouts of joy, the praises, the thanksgiving, will certainly build up to a grand celebration on Friday 27 Oct.
6.23pm Hmmm ... migraine again, not sure what's the cause - is it because of the specs? This morning, dry mouth was surprisingly better, but now getting dry again. SK is still learning to take afternoon naps.
Wednesday, 13 September 2006
RT - 2
Two down, thirty-one more to go. This morning's RT was really quick. All over in half an hour, we thank God.
Still can taste food, we thank God. Throat feels very dry, we thank God. No sore throat, we thank God. Lesser saliva, we thank God. No ulcers, we thank God.
Pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thes 5:17-18
Still can taste food, we thank God. Throat feels very dry, we thank God. No sore throat, we thank God. Lesser saliva, we thank God. No ulcers, we thank God.
Pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thes 5:17-18
As usual
After RT yesterday evening, SK was back to work as usual - teaching her Level 3 students at BSF last night and getting home about 11pm. Back home, it must have been a moment of excitement for SK, to meet her sister who had just arrived from LA earlier in the afternoon.
This morning, we THANK GOD yet again ... as requested, SK's RT has been scheduled for 9am. And for Thursday and Friday, she will be patient number one, at 8am. This will cut down waiting time.
God be glorified ...
This morning, we THANK GOD yet again ... as requested, SK's RT has been scheduled for 9am. And for Thursday and Friday, she will be patient number one, at 8am. This will cut down waiting time.
God be glorified ...
Tuesday, 12 September 2006
First RT completed
Spoke to Radiation Therapist first. Then the doctor called SK into his room. Then SK finally walked into RT Clinic 5 at 4pm and walked out of it at 4.35pm. We can all heave a sigh of relief ... one down, thirty-two more to go.
Now on, SK has to use moisturising shampoo and bath soap. No make-up. And for mouth works, she has to use special toothpaste, super soft toothbrush, mouth gel and mouthwash.
Keep an eye on SK - praying unceasingly, believingly. THANK YOU.
Now on, SK has to use moisturising shampoo and bath soap. No make-up. And for mouth works, she has to use special toothpaste, super soft toothbrush, mouth gel and mouthwash.
Keep an eye on SK - praying unceasingly, believingly. THANK YOU.
Reflection 2 by SK : The God of the Impossible
Dear Prayer Warriors,
The day has finally arrived. Today (12 Sep) is the first day of my 33-days of radiation therapy (RT). As I walk through this journey into the unknown with God as my Guide, I would like to share with you something about radiation so that you can pray alongside me for the next 33 RT sessions & beyond.
Radiation therapy or Radiotherapy (RT) is the use of high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells or to destroy their ability to grow or multiply. RT can stop cancer cells from growing & spreading; in some cases, it can control or slow down the growth & spread of cancer cells or even shrink the size of the cancer tumour. RT is known to affect all cells, good or bad. However, generally, cancer cells are more sensitive to radiation damage than normal cells. RT is usually given on an outpatient basis, 5 days a week, for several weeks depending on the cancer.
The common side effects of RT are fatigue, skin changes and/or loss of appetite. For nose cancers, RT will affect the head & neck areas. The side effects will be :
mouth & throat - dry mouth, mouth ulcers, sore throat, lesser saliva resulting in difficulty in swallowing food, loss of taste
skin & ears - redness of skin, esp on the neck
dental - possible tooth decay (tooth extraction cannot be carried out during & after RT period)
hair loss - possible hair loss but only to the area that is treated
weight loss - possible to lose weight during RT (could lose 1 kg a week in some cases)
low immunity - because of low white blood count, can get easily infected with cold, flu & other viruses
long-term after effects of RT - some of the above problems may persist even after RT eg dry mouth, loss of taste, dental. Other effects include the possibility of secondary cancers (after 10 years?) due to the high radiation exposure (30 min per RT session)
Please PRAY with me over the next 33 RT sessions :
(1) "Lord, please protect every healthy cell, tissue and organ from the RT. Let the RT destroy only the cancer cells.”
(2) that the side effects and after effects of RT will not affect me adversely during and after RT, that is, I will eat, rest well and have a good appetite. I will not be tired, I will not lose weight, I will not have problems swallowing, I will not lose my voice, I will not lose hair, I will not suffer from toothache or tooth decay. I will be protected from cold/flu viruses and if I do suffer any of these symptoms, that God will give me His grace to go through them and recover.
(3) that the RT will be successfully administered, that God will guide the Radiation Oncologist, Therapists and all the other backroom medical staff to administer the radiation correctly, accurately and appropriately.
Our God is the God of the Impossible, the God who has said, "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" (Genesis 18:14). The Lord Jesus Christ Himself has said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26). "If You can?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes." (Mark 9:23).
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." (2 Cor 1:3-4)
Grace be with all of you,
sockkim
The day has finally arrived. Today (12 Sep) is the first day of my 33-days of radiation therapy (RT). As I walk through this journey into the unknown with God as my Guide, I would like to share with you something about radiation so that you can pray alongside me for the next 33 RT sessions & beyond.
Radiation therapy or Radiotherapy (RT) is the use of high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells or to destroy their ability to grow or multiply. RT can stop cancer cells from growing & spreading; in some cases, it can control or slow down the growth & spread of cancer cells or even shrink the size of the cancer tumour. RT is known to affect all cells, good or bad. However, generally, cancer cells are more sensitive to radiation damage than normal cells. RT is usually given on an outpatient basis, 5 days a week, for several weeks depending on the cancer.
The common side effects of RT are fatigue, skin changes and/or loss of appetite. For nose cancers, RT will affect the head & neck areas. The side effects will be :
mouth & throat - dry mouth, mouth ulcers, sore throat, lesser saliva resulting in difficulty in swallowing food, loss of taste
skin & ears - redness of skin, esp on the neck
dental - possible tooth decay (tooth extraction cannot be carried out during & after RT period)
hair loss - possible hair loss but only to the area that is treated
weight loss - possible to lose weight during RT (could lose 1 kg a week in some cases)
low immunity - because of low white blood count, can get easily infected with cold, flu & other viruses
long-term after effects of RT - some of the above problems may persist even after RT eg dry mouth, loss of taste, dental. Other effects include the possibility of secondary cancers (after 10 years?) due to the high radiation exposure (30 min per RT session)
Please PRAY with me over the next 33 RT sessions :
(1) "Lord, please protect every healthy cell, tissue and organ from the RT. Let the RT destroy only the cancer cells.”
(2) that the side effects and after effects of RT will not affect me adversely during and after RT, that is, I will eat, rest well and have a good appetite. I will not be tired, I will not lose weight, I will not have problems swallowing, I will not lose my voice, I will not lose hair, I will not suffer from toothache or tooth decay. I will be protected from cold/flu viruses and if I do suffer any of these symptoms, that God will give me His grace to go through them and recover.
(3) that the RT will be successfully administered, that God will guide the Radiation Oncologist, Therapists and all the other backroom medical staff to administer the radiation correctly, accurately and appropriately.
Our God is the God of the Impossible, the God who has said, "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" (Genesis 18:14). The Lord Jesus Christ Himself has said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26). "If You can?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes." (Mark 9:23).
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." (2 Cor 1:3-4)
Grace be with all of you,
sockkim
A new chapter begins
THANK YOU, LORD, that SK has made it this far. RT starts today, finally, at long last.
Even right now, we PRAY for healing, recovery. We PRAY for extermination of the nose tumour. We PRAY for success of the RT and victory over the cancer.
For now, we PRAY she keeps her strength up by eating well and drinking a lot (of milk). We PRAY that her salivary glands and taste buds will continue to function despite the RT. We PRAY for big appetite and deep hunger for food (spiritual food, too).
Yes, we pray, we pray, we pray,
and GOD will make a way ...
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12
Even right now, we PRAY for healing, recovery. We PRAY for extermination of the nose tumour. We PRAY for success of the RT and victory over the cancer.
For now, we PRAY she keeps her strength up by eating well and drinking a lot (of milk). We PRAY that her salivary glands and taste buds will continue to function despite the RT. We PRAY for big appetite and deep hunger for food (spiritual food, too).
Yes, we pray, we pray, we pray,
and GOD will make a way ...
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12
Monday, 11 September 2006
RT begins tomorrow
Today marks the end of the first part of SK's journey - comprising a whole lot of tests, scans, eating, drinking, tears, fears, joy, relief - all in praises and thankfulness to God, in preparation for RT. THANK YOU, LORD !!!
For those who will be driving or accompanying SK, please take note that RT will take at least an hour each session - RT 30 min, waiting 30 min, etc. Thank you, friends, for ministering to SK in this manner.
This morning's visit to ENT was equally matched - there were 4 of them and 4 of us in the consultation room. Dr Christopher Goh was happy to announce the FNA results - benign. He also said that, there may not be a need for surgery since the nodule was in the region of the RT. Such great news! Praises to God!
After an early lunch of "shark" lor mee, SK returned to office. She is the salt among her colleagues. And in God's perfect time, all SK's dental work was able to be completed this afternoon. Praises to God again!
Do pray for a good night's rest, as tomorrow, we start on a new journey.
Part One - The End
For those who will be driving or accompanying SK, please take note that RT will take at least an hour each session - RT 30 min, waiting 30 min, etc. Thank you, friends, for ministering to SK in this manner.
This morning's visit to ENT was equally matched - there were 4 of them and 4 of us in the consultation room. Dr Christopher Goh was happy to announce the FNA results - benign. He also said that, there may not be a need for surgery since the nodule was in the region of the RT. Such great news! Praises to God!
After an early lunch of "shark" lor mee, SK returned to office. She is the salt among her colleagues. And in God's perfect time, all SK's dental work was able to be completed this afternoon. Praises to God again!
Do pray for a good night's rest, as tomorrow, we start on a new journey.
Part One - The End
Sunday, 10 September 2006
Countdown to RT - 2 days
Continue to PRAY as God hears our petition for quick and complete healing, full recovery from flu for SK.
This morning, SK (ponteng, oops) did not attend church. She really needed to rest as much as possible.
Mon 11 Sep 10.40am ENT - FNA report (still have to go)
Mon 11 Sep 3.15pm Dr Lum - crowning
Tue 12 Sep 3.00pm Meet Dr Wee, Start IMRT
Wed 13 Sep IMRT (time to be confirmed on Tue)
Thu 14 Sep IMRT
Fri 15 Sep IMRT
This morning, SK (ponteng, oops) did not attend church. She really needed to rest as much as possible.
Mon 11 Sep 10.40am ENT - FNA report (still have to go)
Mon 11 Sep 3.15pm Dr Lum - crowning
Tue 12 Sep 3.00pm Meet Dr Wee, Start IMRT
Wed 13 Sep IMRT (time to be confirmed on Tue)
Thu 14 Sep IMRT
Fri 15 Sep IMRT
Reflection 1 by SK : The Lord is Good
Dear Prayer Warriors
Praise the Lord for His faithfulness & love.
Most of you already know that I was diagnosed with nose cancer 3 weeks ago. To complicate matters, last Sunday (3 Sep 2006), I discovered a lump on the left side of my throat. This was confirmed on Tuesday (5 Sep) during my review meeting with oncologist Dr Wee. The MRI report showed a nodule on the left thyroid. Dr Wee arranged for an immediate FNAB (Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy) to determine if the nodule was malignant or benign.
The next few days were filled with much anxiety. I was afraid that this new discovery could delay my radiotherapy (RT) which was scheduled to start on 12 Sep. Why? Because if the thyroid nodule is found to be malignant, surgery would have to be done first to remove the nodule before RT on the nose could begin. And to cut the long story short, my anxiety turned to joy when the FNAB result confirmed on Friday (8 Sep) that the thyroid nodule was benign. Surgery to remove the thyroid nodule could wait until the 33 RT sessions are completed in Oct.
Thank you for rallying behind me in prayer as I battle against cancer in the Lord’s strength.
But most of all, I want to give praises to God Almighty :
“You are my God, and I will give You thanks;
You are my God, and I will exalt You.
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;
His love endures forever.”
(Psalm 118:28-29)
Shalom,
sockkim
Praise the Lord for His faithfulness & love.
Most of you already know that I was diagnosed with nose cancer 3 weeks ago. To complicate matters, last Sunday (3 Sep 2006), I discovered a lump on the left side of my throat. This was confirmed on Tuesday (5 Sep) during my review meeting with oncologist Dr Wee. The MRI report showed a nodule on the left thyroid. Dr Wee arranged for an immediate FNAB (Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy) to determine if the nodule was malignant or benign.
The next few days were filled with much anxiety. I was afraid that this new discovery could delay my radiotherapy (RT) which was scheduled to start on 12 Sep. Why? Because if the thyroid nodule is found to be malignant, surgery would have to be done first to remove the nodule before RT on the nose could begin. And to cut the long story short, my anxiety turned to joy when the FNAB result confirmed on Friday (8 Sep) that the thyroid nodule was benign. Surgery to remove the thyroid nodule could wait until the 33 RT sessions are completed in Oct.
Thank you for rallying behind me in prayer as I battle against cancer in the Lord’s strength.
But most of all, I want to give praises to God Almighty :
“You are my God, and I will give You thanks;
You are my God, and I will exalt You.
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;
His love endures forever.”
(Psalm 118:28-29)
Shalom,
sockkim
Saturday, 9 September 2006
Prayers, prayers, much needed prayers
Oh dear, oh dear, SK is down with FLU.
Let's all PRAY for very, very super quick recovery. RT is starting in three days. She cannot afford to be weakened at this time. Please PRAY, PRAY PRAY.
Do take note, that if you are unwell, you would have to keep a safe distance from SK. If you happen to get sick when you are on duty (driver, accompanying her at the hospital, etc) do let her Manager know (9388 7266), so she can get a replacement to cover your duties. Thank you for your co-operation, dear friends.
Please keep praying for SK --- THANK YOU !!
Let's all PRAY for very, very super quick recovery. RT is starting in three days. She cannot afford to be weakened at this time. Please PRAY, PRAY PRAY.
Do take note, that if you are unwell, you would have to keep a safe distance from SK. If you happen to get sick when you are on duty (driver, accompanying her at the hospital, etc) do let her Manager know (9388 7266), so she can get a replacement to cover your duties. Thank you for your co-operation, dear friends.
Please keep praying for SK --- THANK YOU !!
Countdown to RT - 3 days
Thank the LORD !!
Attended BSF LM this morning. Actually planned to get a haircut after that, but was informed by Radiation Therapist yesterday not to.
Please pray for:
(1) EAR - getting blocked, feeling a lot of discomfort. Pray for good ear, good hearing and healing.
(2) FLU - may be coming down with some virus or other. Pray for strength, good health, strong immunities.
Thank the LORD !!
Attended BSF LM this morning. Actually planned to get a haircut after that, but was informed by Radiation Therapist yesterday not to.
Please pray for:
(1) EAR - getting blocked, feeling a lot of discomfort. Pray for good ear, good hearing and healing.
(2) FLU - may be coming down with some virus or other. Pray for strength, good health, strong immunities.
Thank the LORD !!
Friday, 8 September 2006
Confirmed RT starts next Tuesday
Praise God! Thank God! Hallelujah!
We were at the hospital this afternoon for Verification Planning Simulation. This went smoothly. But before that, the Radiation Therapist explained in great detail - how, what to expect, what to do - when RT starts. It was very informative and most reassuring.
Since we were already there and we couldn't wait for Monday to get FNA results, we asked about it today. FNA results - BENIGN. Hooray! Yippee! Yay! God answered our prayers. We celebrated over dinner. Even more yummy, yummy home-cooked food, fruits and ice-cream. Thank you.
Note: FNA - please refer to Review with Dr Wee, posted on Tue 5 Sep.
Gentle reminder : If you are not well, please don't come too close to SK. Would really appreciate it if you would keep a distance. Thank you.
Next week - please note change in time.
Mon 11 Sep 10.40am ENT - FNA report (still have to go)
Mon 11 Sep 3.15pm Dr Lum - crowning
Tue 12 Sep 3.00pm Meet Dr Wee, Start IMRT
Wed 13 Sep IMRT (time to be confirmed on Tue)
Thu 14 Sep IMRT
Fri 15 Sep IMRT
Thank you everyone for your powerful prayer ministry, for your partnership in prayer.
We were at the hospital this afternoon for Verification Planning Simulation. This went smoothly. But before that, the Radiation Therapist explained in great detail - how, what to expect, what to do - when RT starts. It was very informative and most reassuring.
Since we were already there and we couldn't wait for Monday to get FNA results, we asked about it today. FNA results - BENIGN. Hooray! Yippee! Yay! God answered our prayers. We celebrated over dinner. Even more yummy, yummy home-cooked food, fruits and ice-cream. Thank you.
Note: FNA - please refer to Review with Dr Wee, posted on Tue 5 Sep.
Gentle reminder : If you are not well, please don't come too close to SK. Would really appreciate it if you would keep a distance. Thank you.
Next week - please note change in time.
Mon 11 Sep 10.40am ENT - FNA report (still have to go)
Mon 11 Sep 3.15pm Dr Lum - crowning
Tue 12 Sep 3.00pm Meet Dr Wee, Start IMRT
Wed 13 Sep IMRT (time to be confirmed on Tue)
Thu 14 Sep IMRT
Fri 15 Sep IMRT
Thank you everyone for your powerful prayer ministry, for your partnership in prayer.
TGIF
Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.
Isaiah 65:24
IN HIS HANDS by Betsy Purser Patten
We know not what tomorrow brings although we plan ahead
For only God alone can know the pathway we must tread.
We cannot know the future not one minute nor one hour
Each circumstance that we must face lay only in His power.
It's vital that we live by faith from minute unto minute
And trusting that each step we take He's walking with us in it.
We cannot see the future nor the trials we must face
But in all things, God promised us sufficiency of grace.
This alone should give us hope whatever be our plans
In knowing that our future lies in His sweet, loving hands.
Isaiah 65:24
IN HIS HANDS by Betsy Purser Patten
We know not what tomorrow brings although we plan ahead
For only God alone can know the pathway we must tread.
We cannot know the future not one minute nor one hour
Each circumstance that we must face lay only in His power.
It's vital that we live by faith from minute unto minute
And trusting that each step we take He's walking with us in it.
We cannot see the future nor the trials we must face
But in all things, God promised us sufficiency of grace.
This alone should give us hope whatever be our plans
In knowing that our future lies in His sweet, loving hands.
Thursday, 7 September 2006
Jeremiah 29 the plans for you
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you," declares the LORD ...
God has a plan for your life. He brought you into this world to fulfill that plan. It is the best plan that anyone could ever make for you. It is a plan that will bring Him the greatest glory and you the greatest good. From the beginning of this calendar year until its end, God is working out His plan.
As you follow God's plan for your life, you do so by faith. It is important to remember that He is the Guide and you are the follower. He does not need to bring you into His planning room as a consultant to help Him decide what is best for your life. God has called you to trust Him and to take the next step of obedience according to His will. God has said, "I will bring the blind by a way they did not know; I will lead them in paths they have not known. I will make darkness light before them, And crooked places straight. These things I will do for them, And not forsake them." Isaiah 42:16 NKJV
Here are some ways that God is working out His plan:
He is your Shepherd—He is leading you.
He is your Provider—He is taking care of you.
He is your Strength—He is enabling you.
He is your Counselor—He is speaking to you.
He is your Shield—He is protecting you.
He is your Comfort—He is encouraging you.
He is your Father—He is blessing you.
By Roy Lessin, Co-Founder, DaySpring Cards
Another yummy, scrummy lunch with Wee Tsan & Fook Choon, who will be returning to Shanghai this Sunday. Thank you.
God has a plan for your life. He brought you into this world to fulfill that plan. It is the best plan that anyone could ever make for you. It is a plan that will bring Him the greatest glory and you the greatest good. From the beginning of this calendar year until its end, God is working out His plan.
As you follow God's plan for your life, you do so by faith. It is important to remember that He is the Guide and you are the follower. He does not need to bring you into His planning room as a consultant to help Him decide what is best for your life. God has called you to trust Him and to take the next step of obedience according to His will. God has said, "I will bring the blind by a way they did not know; I will lead them in paths they have not known. I will make darkness light before them, And crooked places straight. These things I will do for them, And not forsake them." Isaiah 42:16 NKJV
Here are some ways that God is working out His plan:
He is your Shepherd—He is leading you.
He is your Provider—He is taking care of you.
He is your Strength—He is enabling you.
He is your Counselor—He is speaking to you.
He is your Shield—He is protecting you.
He is your Comfort—He is encouraging you.
He is your Father—He is blessing you.
By Roy Lessin, Co-Founder, DaySpring Cards
Another yummy, scrummy lunch with Wee Tsan & Fook Choon, who will be returning to Shanghai this Sunday. Thank you.
Wednesday, 6 September 2006
Giving mum a treat
Mum has been my prayer and pillar of support. So today we are taking her out for MAKAN, hooray! Thank you, Linda.
Now we know, SK enjoys Japanese food. We went to Hanabi's, ordered 5 sets - beef, cod fish, eel, pork cutlet and prawn! Drool, drool ...
May God's Angels Keep You
May God's angels greet you every morning,
And guide you throughout the night,
May they comfort all your sorrows,
And help you win the fight.
May they keep watch over your soul,
And show you God's perfect way,
May they guard you while you're sleeping,
And see you through your day.
May they calm your every fear,
And hear you when you shout,
May they show you bright new hopes,
And still your every doubt.
Now we know, SK enjoys Japanese food. We went to Hanabi's, ordered 5 sets - beef, cod fish, eel, pork cutlet and prawn! Drool, drool ...
May God's Angels Keep You
May God's angels greet you every morning,
And guide you throughout the night,
May they comfort all your sorrows,
And help you win the fight.
May they keep watch over your soul,
And show you God's perfect way,
May they guard you while you're sleeping,
And see you through your day.
May they calm your every fear,
And hear you when you shout,
May they show you bright new hopes,
And still your every doubt.
Tuesday, 5 September 2006
Review with Dr Wee
Thank you Lord for a such great day, nice, cool weather. Thank you Lord for a wonderful lunch, Penang Food Buffet at King's. Yum yum. Thank you, Sally.
Dr Wee said MRI showed a lump (mass) on the left side of the thyroid. Immediately referred to ENT. Met a doctor called, you wouldn't believe his name - Dr Jason Gabriel Rocky! Also examined by ENT HOD Dr Christopher Goh. Did a FNA (fine needle aspiration - biopsy). The results will be out next Monday.
So another hospital visit on Monday 11 Sep 11am. If benign (90-95%) RT will go ahead as planned. If not, thyroid surgery, RT will be rescheduled.
PRAY PLEASE PRAY !!!
Akan datang ---
Fri 8 Sep 2.30pm Final Review, Verification Planning Simulation
Mon 11 Sep 11am ENT - FNA report
Mon 11 Sep 2pm Dr Lum - crowning
Tue 12 Sep 3.30pm Meet Dr Wee, Start IMRT
Dr Wee said MRI showed a lump (mass) on the left side of the thyroid. Immediately referred to ENT. Met a doctor called, you wouldn't believe his name - Dr Jason Gabriel Rocky! Also examined by ENT HOD Dr Christopher Goh. Did a FNA (fine needle aspiration - biopsy). The results will be out next Monday.
So another hospital visit on Monday 11 Sep 11am. If benign (90-95%) RT will go ahead as planned. If not, thyroid surgery, RT will be rescheduled.
PRAY PLEASE PRAY !!!
Akan datang ---
Fri 8 Sep 2.30pm Final Review, Verification Planning Simulation
Mon 11 Sep 11am ENT - FNA report
Mon 11 Sep 2pm Dr Lum - crowning
Tue 12 Sep 3.30pm Meet Dr Wee, Start IMRT
Monday, 4 September 2006
Isaiah said ...
This is what the LORD says — your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.”
Isaiah 48:17
Thank the LORD, FoSK for this week:
Tues - Lee Lian, Linda, PS, Sally
Fri - Siew Hwa, Edith, Linda, Ruby, PS
THANK GOD for His blessings.
This afternoon, Dr Lum did a crown for SK. Will do another one next Monday.
Isaiah 48:17
Thank the LORD, FoSK for this week:
Tues - Lee Lian, Linda, PS, Sally
Fri - Siew Hwa, Edith, Linda, Ruby, PS
THANK GOD for His blessings.
This afternoon, Dr Lum did a crown for SK. Will do another one next Monday.
Sunday, 3 September 2006
Psalm 81:10
I am the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt. Open wide your mouth and I will fill it.
New discovery, lump on left side of throat. We pray, we ask God to give SK peace, courage, calm, rest ... against all fears. Will check with Dr Wee on Tuesday.
New discovery, lump on left side of throat. We pray, we ask God to give SK peace, courage, calm, rest ... against all fears. Will check with Dr Wee on Tuesday.
Friday, 1 September 2006
To tsk tsk
We ask the Lord to bless you
As we pray for you each day
To guide you and protect you
As you go along your way
His love is always with you
His promises are true
And when you give Him all your cares
We know He will see you through
So when the road you're traveling on
Seems difficult at best
Just remember we're here praying
And God will do the rest
from : PS & the BSF gang
As we pray for you each day
To guide you and protect you
As you go along your way
His love is always with you
His promises are true
And when you give Him all your cares
We know He will see you through
So when the road you're traveling on
Seems difficult at best
Just remember we're here praying
And God will do the rest
from : PS & the BSF gang
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