Prayer Partners

Update on PJ Garbarini

2012-02-01T03:36:00.000-08:00

Pj had good day today no big problems has been throwing up but no new problems is good. His belly looking a little better urine culture showed bacterial infection so getting treated with 2 antibiotics for it maybe why groin is swollen time will tell. Praying for swelling to go down and infections clear up soon.No new news about g tube surgery yet may not need is as soon as we thought we will see. PJ ANC numbers still down so chemo has been put off till they come back up praying to get through this with flying colors praise the Lord for giving us strength to get through this and thanks to all who pray and continue to pray and praise the name of jesus for us amen - Angela

Update on PJ Garbarini

2012-01-30T15:36:00.000-08:00

Pj is same as yesterday getting more morphine for pain (testicular) swelling has not gotten better yet said it would take a few days for antibiotic to work will probably have urologist come tomorrow along with infectious disease and surgery also to find out about new g tube really no new news please lord help doctors understand what's going on and how to help fix pj keep your healing hands on pj amen.PJ's Great Granddaddy is also in cardiac ICU for bypass surgery, doing ok...yes we are keeping the prayer lines busy!! - Angela

Update on PJ Garbarini....1/28/2012

2012-01-28T00:03:00.000-08:00

PJ had an ok day! Getting interthecal chemo tomorrow don't know what time yet. Had no vomiting and has been pooping so not a lot of tummy pain today and we are cutting back on some of the anti fungal before they start doing damage to other organs. Docs think we are in a good place to start cutting back its hard to tell what needs or should be done with meds because PJ is the first person to ever have this disease and have these treatments, tolerate them and live this long, so PJ's going to be in medical books. They are going to write a study about him. PJ 'is a miracle and keeps getting better every day. He has his set backs now and again but he is a tough little man. Praise the Lord for him, thank you Jesus for allowing him to pull through this and fight this horrible disease that no one else has been able to. Just keep giving us reasons to sing your praises and heal him and allow him to see again in Jesus precious name I pray, Amen

Update on PJ Garbarini....1/25/2012

2012-01-26T09:14:00.000-08:00

PJ had a good day just a little bloated, was constipated, he had four poopy diapers but his tummy is so hard and he says it hurts. Praying it gets back on track.Well, while I was writing this he threw up on me, so praying his tummy gets settled. Please Lord Jesus heal PJ's sickness in your precious name I pray Amen.

(side note: he does like to hold a phone, so...."HI" to everyone from PJ!!)

Update on PJ Garbarini....1/20/2012

2012-01-20T13:50:00.000-08:00

"PJ has had a good day today, not throwing up, been tolerating feeds and was out walking, riding scooter and playing and had an occupational therapy session. Now he is napping, wish he would have been awake for his cousin Casey's visit. Thank you Jesus for such a great day and for keeping your healing hands on PJ. Please Llord let him keep getting better and better and allow him to see once again in your precious name, Jesus I pray Amen"

Plea for PJ Garbarini.....1/19/2012

2012-01-19T17:25:00.000-08:00

Plea for PJ:
"Anyone in the Beaufort, St. Mary's, Fernandina Beach and Jacksonville area who can donate, PLEASE do so. Any blood type is needed, and, if you don't mind, ask them to credit your donation to PJ's account.

His account number is 0301 with The Blood Alliance. Donating to his account will offset the cost of the blood he uses. You don't need to be the same blood type as PJ to have it credited to his account."

update PJ

2012-01-16T05:02:00.000-08:00

Pj is doing well still vomiting and diarrhea the doctors and nurses are racking brains to figure out how to get it under control he had a good day other than that Maria and I went and spent some time together she wanted to see the movie we bought a zoo such a good movie and not a cartoon I'm surprised she stayed interested my baby is growing up so fast the doctor yesterday said we are going to be here in hospital a long time months and suggested I go home and have my mom stay with pj and be with Maria for a little while so I asked Maria what she wanted me to do go home with her and get her to school and all I don't want her to feel like I abandoned her she said no mommy pj needs you you need to stay with pj I told her you know I love you right just to make sure she really understands and she said yes mommy I love you too. I asked her multiple times to see if she might change her mind she kept giving me the same answer It's amazing how much a five year old can understand and how much a two year olds body can endure I am just amazed and in aww of gods wonderful creations and feel so blessed to have two of the best kids in the world thank you Jesus you never cease to amaze me praying for pj healing and for the doctor and nurses to have the wisdom and knowledge to get pj drugs just right to get him better in Jesus name I pray amen

Update on PJ Garbarini.....1/12/2012

2012-01-12T16:43:00.000-08:00

"Well PJ has had a good day so far no vomiting or diarrhea, yeah!!!The Opthalmologist came and looked at PJ's eye today and said yes his pupil is less dilated than when she saw it last and it is moving which it wasn't doing before. Is he ever going to be able to see again she can't say. it doesn't look good but if they remove eye they still cant guarantee they can get it all or if it would save his life if they did, so after further review the surgeons have backed off on surgery and now we are staying the course with treatment we are on and praying for a healing and miracle to get rid of fungus through medicine and prayer and the occasional debridement whenever needed so we are not removing his eye and praying for a healing! When you can't do anything else that's when you get your miracles thank you Jesus for all you do I will work on my patience it's so hard to be patient I never knew how hard till now but I know in time you will heal him and restore his Vision praise the Lord PJ is still with us and has touched so many lives please Lord Jesus allow us to stay on the healing path and allow PJ to grow up to be a big strong man and be a testimony to you in Jesus name I pray amen"

This is PJ's other eye, they have removed one already.

Update on PJ Garbarini....1/10/2012

2012-01-10T09:37:00.000-08:00

"Well Lord you did it again. Scans are clear no fungus spread to other parts of body the only thing that it showed is dead bone in between brain and sinus cavity and eyes which we already knew. Now the surgeons neuro and Dr. Roy need to look at scans and access what should be done next. ...More debreement or not more. Good news is PJ is moving his eye a little more and more every day little twitches I could just stare at it all day. OK,I do stare at it all day lol anyway thank you Jesus for healing my baby and bone marrow and spinal. No sign of leukemia praise the Lord so we are continuing with the treatment we are on because it seems to be working. The doc said he is going to be on the fungal drugs still for months cause they still need to treat leukemia with chemo and need to keep the fungal from coming back so we are going to be here for a long time which in a way is good. We can't go home anytime soon but one day we will go home. Thank you Jesus. A little over a month ago things were a lot different, thank you Jesus for answering our prayers, you are an awesome God, the almighty healer and I praise you for giving us our miracle. Thank you Jesus Amen"

Update on PJ Garbarini.....1/4/2012

2012-01-04T20:43:00.000-08:00

"Pj has been throwing up and sleeping most of the day he is going to have surgery tomorrow to have abscess drained that has popped up on his eye he is also going to have sinuses cleaned out they did x rays last night said no obstructions all they saw was gas. On Friday they are going to do scans on rest of body to make sure fungus has not spread to other organs and i think may start chemo next week depending on what scans show, that's all updates I have on PJ today."

Update on PJ Garbarini.....12/28/2011

2011-12-28T17:01:00.000-08:00

"PJ had a great Christmas. Going to have and MRI Monday or Tuesday. Today the drs are going to try gentian violet to his left eye to hopefully get rid of the fungus growing in the cavity. Never been done before..... when this is all controlled he'll begin chemo again. Keep the prayers coming. For now he is feeling so good!"

Update on PJ Garbarini......12/27/2011

2011-12-27T12:15:00.000-08:00

"Pj having a great day. Woke up happy playing with his toys. Got a great physical training session. The biggest achievement was walking! Praise the Lord for such a wonderful day thank you Jesus and to all for your prayers."

Update on Robert W. Roach.....12/24/2011

2011-12-24T09:01:00.000-08:00

God bless you and thank you for your prayers. My Dad is out in a regular room now, in little pain and awaiting his trip to Siskin Re-hab. His only real complaint is about the food but I am so happy to hear him complain. They are doing therapy daily and he is doing great. May you and your loved ones have a very Blessed Merry CHRISTmas. Our CHRISTmas will be different this year but full of Love and Thanksgiving to our precious Savior Jesus and for our family. Happy Birthday Jesus! Blessings, Deb

UPDATE: PJ Garbarini.....12/20/2011

2011-12-20T19:34:00.000-08:00

"I've gotten a lot of request for PJ's address at the hospital. His mom has made a board in his room for his cards and a Christmas tree and Angel have been given. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in PJ's room. Let's fill this board up! The address is Wolfson Children's Hospital, 800 Prudential Dr, Jacksonville FL 32207
PJ Garbarini Room 522."

UPDATE: Robert W. Roach....12/20/2011

2011-12-20T18:34:00.000-08:00

I updated this morning about my Dad having a good night except his Blood Pressure dropping. Well things have changed for now. Around Lunch time they moved him to ICU where he would be watched more closely due to his Blood Pressure and they are worried about his Kidney function. I ask that you keep praying for my Dad for a full recovery. I thank you from the bottom of my heart, God bless every one of you. Blessings, Deb

UPDATE on PJ Garbanni......12/20/2011

2011-12-20T18:26:00.000-08:00

"Results of the MRI: Well as of now scans are stable, the infectious disease Dr. came in and looked at the sore in PJ's mouth and said it looks a lot better so we are going to keep going on treatments and after recovered from this fungus need to start fighting leukemia again so that's where we are for right now with that which is a lot better than what we were faced with last week God is wonderful"

Update on PJ Garbanni.....12/18/2011

2011-12-18T08:04:00.000-08:00

PJ's Mom's latest post: "PJ threw up meds again so maybe it is God's way of telling me he going to be healed and doesn't need them.That's the way I look at it. Praying for a great scan on Monday that will show a great healing is happening and shock all the Dr's cause they look at me like I'm crazy when I say he is going to be healed because God is in control. I know they just have to go by what they see and share that with us so I hope God uses PJ to help change their lives so they will believe in miracles. Thank you Lord for the small improvements you have made in PJ's health so far, having him laugh and smile again has been a wonderful blessing to us all and I praise You for that Lord. Give PJ a complete healing of mucormycosis, leukemia and restore vision. Also, please Lord, let my little man be a beacon to lead people to You who may not believe. Show them You are real and taking care of those who call on You and believe in You. Please let PJ live to be a testimony for You; our miracle baby. In Jesus name I pray, Amen."

Update on Bonnie Morgan....12/14/2011

2011-12-14T19:11:00.000-08:00

The Dr. says this is a really large stone and in a bad place too. But mom says she has been at ease all day, so I know God is at work through your prayers. She goes for pre- op tomorrow and surgery on Friday. Thank you all so very much and please continue to pray . Love and blessing to you all. Her daughter Loretta and I thank you for your prayers. Blessings. Deb

Request of prayer for Bonnie Morgan....12/14/2011

2011-12-14T19:02:00.000-08:00

Prayer request, My momma was hurting really bad with kidney stone. I took her to ER. We were there from 4:30 til 9 last night. They got us out quickly so we could get her prescription filled. She has a 7cm stone with a 1 cm stone behind it. They are blocking her kidney activity. She will see the Dr. Today and hopefully get it blasted out since it is too big to pass. She is in lots of pain and throwing up. She has been thru this before and is very sick please pray with me she will be well soon and no more pain. I know how she feels been thru this yucky stuff myself and very painful.God be with my mom. This is my Aunt, please pray. Blessings, Deb

Request for Susie Cook....12/14/2011

2011-12-14T10:34:00.000-08:00

Please say a prayer for Susie Cook she is at St Marys Hospital and is in a coma. Tommy Matty her boyfriend had to call 911. Susie sugar was way over 1,000 and she is on a ventilator. They lowered her body temperature so her organs would not be working so hard. They have started bringing her body temperature back up but her kidney and liver is failing her and she is on 100% oxygen and her body is not accepting it. She is very young and a great friend of mine and love her dearly. Please repost this and pass it on. Susie is a great person and is so young. Please God lift Susie into your arms and heal her and protect her and make her whole again. In Jesus name Amen!!!!!

Prayers needed for Maryalee Townsend and Mother...12/13/2011

2011-12-13T17:10:00.000-08:00

Maryalee Townsend's mother is under Hospice care. Maryalee needs our prayers at this time in her Mother's life

Update on PJ Garbanni.....12/13/2011

2011-12-13T14:55:00.000-08:00

Praying for our miracle. PJ will be healed in Jesus name. For right now going to continue treatments and access in a week, get another scan. I have faith in my heart I know PJ will be healed, keep lifting us up in prayer even though the scans look really bad I believe he will be healed, they say it looks like he has meningitis but by His stripes he will be healed in Jesus name we pray. amen

Prayer request for Angela Vess......12/13/2011

2011-12-13T01:57:00.000-08:00

Angela Vess is the mother of a young daughter and the wife of a very loving husband. She has Polycystic Kidney Disease. Her only hope of surviving is a kidney transplant other than a miracle from our Heavenly Father. This Chronic Kidney Disease has put her on Dialysis for the last 12 weeks, her blood type is O. She is listed on the Kidney Transplant list at Emory Hospital in Atlanta, GA. Her husband asked that this toll-free number be posted, 1-866-272-3250, just in case God puts it on someones heart to call. May the Will of God be done in the precious name of Jesus. Amen. Deb

Update on P.J. Garbanni.....12/12/2011

2011-12-12T19:09:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone I want to thank you for your prayers and I still need them more than ever now the scan came back not good it looks worse so tomorrow they want to know if I want to continue treatment or not a decision I can't handle I am trying hard lord to have faith please dear lord please we need a miracle for little pj please don't take him please miracle please give us a mi...racle turn this around I know you can you are all powerful the mighty healer please please prove the doc wrong give me the strength and the knowledge to know if I should stop treatments I don't want him to suffer but don't want to loose him either please lord take this burden from me please miracle miracle miracle you have done it before please do it again please please please please I praying begging for mercy on us as a family give us a miracle please please please please amen

Thy will be done. Pray for peace and healing in their hearts in this horrendous decision to make. We want our angel PJ to be at peace and free of pain.

Request for my Dad: Robert W. Roach--12/11/2011

2011-12-11T03:04:00.000-08:00

I have a prayer request that is very dear to my heart. My 81 year old father is scheduled for Double Knee Replacement Surgery on Dec. 19th. I would appreciate all the prayers we can get for my Dad. If you have prayer lists at your Churches, please add him to those also. The Surgery is scheduled at 11:00 am on the 19th. Thank you and God bless you from my Dad and I. Blessings, Deb

UPDATE: 12/20/2011
Thank you for all the prayers. My Dad came through the surgery good but during last night his blood pressure dropped and they had to get it under control. Please continue praying for a speedy recovery and back home to us in a few weeks or sooner. Blessings, Deb

Prayer request for John Wade.....12/11/2011

2011-12-11T02:56:00.000-08:00

Please be in prayer for John. He has cancer, was in ICU for 12 days but is now out in a room. He is starting his fourth week in the hospital without a possible date to go home. Also keep his family in your prayers during this tough Holiday Season. Thank you and God bless all of you, Deb

Prayers for Don & JoAnn Ward......12/11/2011

2011-12-11T02:49:00.000-08:00

Please remember Don in your prayers, he is not doing very good. Below is a short note from his wife.

We came home on Monday the 6^th. He has had mostly bad days

No pain, just weak and miserable. Doesn’t eat much or drink

Enough liquids but I keep trying. Ask everyone to continue

To pray for Don, this is physically and mentally very hard for him

And me. God Bless, JoAnn Ward

Update PJ Garbarini

2011-12-10T05:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterdays surgery to place a PICC line for meds and replace eye packing: Dr Roy came out to say that he was replacing packing and found that the bone in between eye and brain was dead and needs to drill it away to give him a fighting chance and the right eye and sinus looked ok and are not gonna do anything to that side. Please god please heal him get him trough this give me my baby back please ...no brain damage and keep his right eye please let him live and see again in Jesus name amen.Today (12/9) PJ had an ultrasound to check his kidney's due to the high power drugs to fight the fungus may cause kidney damage.

Prayer Request for Loretta Honea

2011-12-03T03:38:00.000-08:00

Loretta was taken to the hospital after days of illness. She has been transferred to another hospital and diagnosed with kidney problems. Please pray that this is not life threatening and that she will be back on her feet soon.

Update on Jane Thompson

2011-12-03T03:33:00.000-08:00

Please pray for the family and friends of Jane Thompson who passed away after years of illness.

Prayer Request for Christi Hambrick

2011-12-03T02:50:00.000-08:00

Please add Christi Hambrick to your prayer list. She has been diagnosed with bone marrow cancer and is starting chemo.

update PJ Garbarini

2011-12-03T02:47:00.000-08:00

PJ was having a hard time Friday night in the oxygen chamber. His Mom said they're trying not to give as much morphine for pain so that they can monitor his behavior to make sure he is acting normal and interacting with them because of the worry... of fungus spots in the brain. If he acts normal and responds then there is a good chance it's working and fungus is not growing in brain . Still a long road ahead.

Request of prayer for P.J. Garbarini---11/30/2011

2011-11-30T16:33:00.000-08:00

Requesting prayer for P.J., he had surgery today to remove his left eye. He had been fighting a Fungal Infection in his eye for a couple of weeks. They diagnosed him with Leukemia in October. After Surgery, he will begin treatments. Please pray for complete healing. P.J. and his family need our prayers desperately. In Jesus name, Deb

update Ella Newmiller

2011-11-28T19:13:00.001-08:00

Last week, we decided to postpone finding out the MRI results. We felt we would enjoy the Thanksgiving weekend more without the weight of knowing results. Unfortunately, that turned out to be a good idea.
We spoke with the doctor, briefly, this afternoon. The MRI showed the tumors have spread in both the spine and brain. The radiation to the spine did nothing. The chemo has not been effective. We are pretty much out of options. We need a miracle.
Ella is such a little trooper. She never complains, even though she has gone through a lot and many of her abilities have been stripped by this horrible disease. It is so painful to watch and saddens us beyond belief.
Please join us as we keep praying and believing in a miracle.
Love,The Newmillers

update Ella Newmiller

2011-11-22T05:20:00.000-08:00

While there have been many struggles since our last post, there have also been many blessings. We have been very blessed to be surrounded by so much love and support at every turn, and for that we are thankful.

Tuesday November 22 at 2:30, Ella will have an MRI. Please join us in prayer that all will go smoothly for Ella, for God's peace to fill all of our family and for encouraging/joyous MRI results.

Love & blessings,
The Newmillers

Prayers needed for Verlin Sweat.....11/3/2011

2011-11-03T04:52:00.000-07:00

Please remember me, my cancer has worsened and am starting a new chemo. Plus, I have broken the fibula in my left leg at the ankle and had surgery on Oct. 3rd. and still in boot and can't put weight on it for another 3 weeks. Thats the way things go, still trusting in the Lord for all our needs.

Your brother in Christ,

Verlin Sweat

Update on Barney........10/31/2011

2011-10-31T19:34:00.000-07:00

"Good news; Barney found his was back home!!! Prayers were answered for the family!"

LOST: Barney Caplan, Australian Shepherd

2011-10-26T07:37:00.000-07:00

Please pray for Barney Caplan to be reunited with his family in Columbus, Ohio. He is an Australian Shepherd and went out of town to Carmel, Indiana with his family for the weekend. His family left Carmel to visit Chicago and left Barney with a sitter and he ran away. He has never done this before. He is now lost and has no one to help him home.

The family is heartbroken, as he is a very important member of this family.

Thank you,

Jennifer Cook

Prayer request for Don Ward.....10/ 23/2011

2011-10-23T17:10:00.000-07:00

Don has been diagnosed with Colon Cancer. He is to see the Surgeon this next week. Please add him and his family to your prater list.
Blessings, Deb

Prayer request for Steven Bristow.....10/22/2011

2011-10-22T01:11:00.000-07:00

Please pray for Direction and Growth in Steven's walk for our wonderful Lord. May the Father guide Steven in the steps of His Will.
Thank you and Blessings, Deb

Update on Ella.........October 19, 2011

2011-10-19T16:39:00.000-07:00

Ella continues to be the backbone of our family. So much has transpired over the last six weeks, yet her spirit is unwavering.

Ella finished the radiation treatments about 4 weeks ago. The treatments gave her a "severe sunburn" on her back. It was very itchy and somewhat painful for few weeks. Swallowing was also very painful, so she was somewhat limited on what she could eat; however, amazingly no problems with dessert. She has an MRI scheduled for the second week in November, so we have to wait until then to determine how effective the radiation was, and the status of the original tumor. Unfortunately, since radiation can lower blood counts, she was not able to get any other type of treatment for the original tumor. She had to go off the clinical trial she started in August at NIH.

Within the past month she has lost her mobility and needs to travel by wheelchair, lost almost all use of her right arm and the ability to smile, she has some difficulty with swallowing and has had vision problems in her right eye. Yet, she tackles each day without complaint. The symptoms could be from the original tumor, swelling from irradiating the spinal tumor, lowering the steroid dosage or a combination of each.

She started a "chemo cocktail" last Friday. We have faith that it will be effective. So far she has tolerated it well, the only side effect has been fatigue. There is a 50% chance that she could lose her hair. She is also taking Avastin, which hopefully will help control any swelling.

Ella continues to go to school for most of the day. The teachers and staff at the school have been nothing short of amazing. They go far above and beyond all of our greatest expectations. Ella has really focused her time on homework and extra credit. I think she has finished most of third grade and has almost bankrupt her teacher's store (extra credit provides opportunities to shop the store).

Just like Orange County Choppers, we have heard that someone is creating a special custom wheelchair for Ella. We will be sure to post pictures once she gets it next week.

We can not thank you enough for your prayers. Please keep them coming... The Newmillers

Prayer request for Dorothy.....9/28/2011

2011-09-27T21:43:00.000-07:00

Update: After physical therapy, she is back to doing things as normal.
Dorothy fell and fractured her wrist. Please pray that her wrist heals properly and that the strength is regained in her hand. Thanks

Request for Leonard Quinn...9/25.2011

2011-09-25T11:27:00.000-07:00

Please add Leonard to your prayer lists. His wife and I had been friends for 30+ years but we lost Betty on July 4th. Leonard has told their 5 children not to come to his house and he already has a girlfriend. Needless to say, this is hurting their children terribly. Just losing their mother and then ordered to not come see their father is a lot to handle. Please pray for Leonard to realize that their children need him now, even though grown. You never get too old to not need your parents love. Blessings, Deb

Leonard has now married and things are no better. The oldest daughter that requested prayer is really hurting. Her husband lost his mother a few days ago, 3 1/2 months after her Mother. Please continue praying! God bless all, Deb

Prayer request for Linda Bowers...9/25/2011

2011-09-25T11:22:00.000-07:00

Please be in prayer for my friend Linda this week. She is to go to court Wednesday against her husband for abuse. May the Will of God guide Linda and the judge in this case. Thank you all. Blessings, Deb

Request of prayer for McKinna.....9/25/2011

2011-09-25T11:16:00.000-07:00

My granddaughter has a cousin named McKinna who is 5 and has a tumor on/in (not sure ) her kidney. They are operating to remove Monday then she will have chemo. Please add this child and family to the prayer list. They are members at Fairview Baptist.
Martha Hulgan

update- Ella Newmiller

2011-09-03T21:15:00.000-07:00

Ella and I (Renae) arrived safely home Thursday night around 11:00. We went to Duke at 8:00 on Friday morning, met with our radio-oncologist, had Ella's simulation and then her first round of radiation. We went again this morning and she had her second dose. She'll have Sunday and Monday off, and will start back on Tuesday. She will have somewhere between 10-14 treatments that will hopefully destroy the large mass that is pushing on her spine. She is currently on steroids, which help reduce some symptoms, but cause other issues. We hope we can begin to taper her off the steroids beginning mid-week. Since we are now off the NIH study, we'll need to determine a new course of action to address the brain tumor as well. Hopefully, there was no new growth.

Prayers for the radiation to be 100% effective in destroying the mass on Ella's spine, for Ella to be free from side effects, for guidance regarding treatment for her brain tumor and for a miraculous healing would be wonderful. It's a lot, but we know He is capable of this, and so much more.

In the midst of all of this, we feel very blessed to be surrounded by lots of love and prayers from so many people. Thank you for journeying with us!

Love,
The Newmillers

Prayer request for Curtis Weight,...9/2/2011

2011-09-02T20:54:00.000-07:00

Curtis needs our prayers as he is faced with a difficult problem. He was adopted when he was a few weeks old and now the woman who gave birth to him but is a stranger to him wants to come live with him and his wife. He has only seen her a couple times and being a Christian makes this a hard decision to make. Please pray that God will guide Curtis to the best decision for all involved.
Blessings, Deb

update- Ella Newmiller

2011-09-01T15:05:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, the tumor has spread down and around the spine. Renae and Ella are headed home from NIH so we can go to Duke first thing in the morning to start radiation immediately. Ella continues to be a trooper and took the sudden change in plans in stride. I do not have much more information to share at this point, but I will update tomorrow.

Prayers. Lots of them. Please.

God's Peace and Love to you all.

The Newmillers

update- Ella Newmiller

2011-08-31T02:42:00.000-07:00

We head back to NIH tomorrow, and if everything goes well, Ella will start the next round of chemo on Friday (it's a five days on, twenty-three days off cycle).

Ella handled the first round of chemo well. While we were at NIH we were able to enjoy some time with friends, attend church and visit the new American Girl store in VA, which helped to make our stay, for what it was, a good one. The main side effect Ella experienced was some fatigue, and then she had to have a platelet transfusion this past Friday (but counts are now back to where they need to be). Ella and Jack started school on the 16th and both are enjoying it. While Ella can't really run around during PE or recess due to some balance issues, she can do everything else. I (Renae) have been going to school for recess and in an effort to make hanging out with Ella at a picnic table a fun thing, have become the craft lady (even though I'm really not very crafty). The children are all so sweet to Ella, as are all of the teachers and staff, which is a huge blessing.

Ella and I will head back to NIH tomorrow. Ella will have doctor appointments, labs and an MRI on Thursday. After an audiology test on Friday morning, we should be able to head home. If everything is stable, she'll start the next round of chemo on Friday. We'll be able to give it to her orally at home. Prayers for great test results would be wonderful.

We were sad to learn today that Sydney Gaylord, passed away yesterday after her battle with a brain tumor. We know Sydney's parents and think the world of them. Please keep them, her husband, young children and all of her family and friends in your prayers (www.caringbridge.org/visit/sydneygaylord). Additionally, please keep the Makintosh family in your prayers as their daughter Nicole passed away this evening from a DIPG (www.carepages.com/carepages/NicolesNotes).

Love & Blessings,
The Newmillers

Prayer request for John Wade......8/29/2011

2011-08-29T19:09:00.000-07:00

Please add John Wade to your prayer lists. They have found a Cancerous Tumor and are going to start Chemo treatments this week. John's wife is an invalid due to a auto accident. Please remember this family in prayer. Blessings, Deb

Request of prayer for Timmy Sexton....8/29/2011

2011-08-29T19:00:00.000-07:00

Timmy is a young man in his thirties and he is a very bad alcoholic. He has been in the hospital twice to have his Pancreas drained because of this. His mother, Donna, has a request for prayers for her "baby" son. She is on Hospice and doesn't have too long as it is and this is tearing her apart. Thank you and God bless all of you. Blessings, Deb

Prayer Request for Jason and family

2011-08-27T14:01:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone for the prayers this weekend for our family in New York. Please remember to keep their son, Kyle, in your prayers tomorrow. Kyle is a special needs child who with his little smile will win your heart over. He is having surgery in the morning to correct a problem with his hips. Thanks for being such warriors and being such special friends. Love to all of you.

Jason and his family live on Long Island and have a special needs child. Kyle is scheduled to have surgery on both hips on Tuesday. They have decided they will have to stay at home and ride the storm out. Please send up lots of prayers for this family. Please also ask your friends to pray for this special family. Thanks Pat

Update on Andy Long........August 13, 2011

2011-08-13T05:57:00.000-07:00

Aftermath

Today is the 22nd day since I finished my chemo, all side effects have dissipated except for the naprapathy part regarding the numbness of fingertips and soles of the feet. Typically this will be gone within 6 months, but has the possibility of being permanent. It is not too bad; more of a nuisance than anything, but does effect my balance at times, like when I can not feel that my foot is there at all. No more fatigue, back to almost regular hours and activities, however still lack a lot of my original strength. I lost about 30 pounds, unfortunately because of the fatigue factor a good portion was loss of muscle mass, hence little strength.

Trying to get back to the old routine, been dancing a couple of times, the beach, and weekend road trips are now at least enjoyable.

Orlando is in a few weeks, thanks to the generosity of my younger sister and her boyfriend. They gave us their timeshare condo for a week.

Had my first CAT scans today as part of the monitoring process. They came back all clear, also my colon tumor marker was normal. So I've got the green-light as of now. Next monitoring checkpoint is in 4 months. Then monitoring will go for 5 years before I can be classed as "in remission".

Thanks to all my friends and family for their love and support. A special thanks to Carol; the love of my life, my rock, my forever best friend and companion.

Back to working on full recovery and building strength, also the task of trying to figure out how to pay the medicals bills.

I almost forgot a special thanks to ANGIE BAILEY, her family and her real estate team, for the fundraiser to help on my medical bills. T-shirt sales at a Charleston Battery soccer match.

Bye for now, LIFE IS NOT JUST GOOD; IT IS GREAT !!!!!!

Love to all,

Andy

Prayer Chain for Isabella........8/4/2011

2011-08-04T22:09:00.000-07:00

Isabella is a two month old baby girl who is in TC Thompson's she has two broken leg's a broken hip and bleeding on the brain. Possible Disease called "Osteogenesis Imperfecta." (Is a group of collagen in which the bones are formed improperly making them fragile and prone to breaking.)
Please all who believe in prayer remember this precious baby in your prayer's.

update- Ella Newmiller

2011-08-04T15:27:00.000-07:00

The Next Best Step

Posted 2 hours ago

A lot has happened since our last post. We prayed for doors to open, and they did. We spent last week waiting to see if we qualified for a study at St. Jude's and at the same time trying to decide about another trial at Duke. On Friday, we found out we qualified for the trial at St. Jude's. We spent the weekend trying to decide between the two studies - as we needed to have a decision made by Monday. We prayed for doors to close and for discernment. Instead of doors closing, the Duke trial, which we thought would close on Monday, remained open. Also on Monday we heard from our doctor at NIH. She mentioned a trial at NIH, but because of medicine dosages and the head of the study being in Germany, it wasn't something we we thought was a real option. In fact, we really wanted her opinion between the St. Jude's study and the Duke one - not another open door to think about. Instead of discernment, we had confusion. That same day, I (Renae) found a folded up piece of paper as I was cleaning. Ella had written on it "The Next Best Step." I'm not sure when or why she wrote that, but since we did not feel we had a clear calling about what to do, it seemed like great advice - moving forward, taking the next best step, trying hard to trust that God would lead us where we needed to be. We felt the next best step was the trial at St. Jude's, and decided to pack-up for what would have meant spending a month in Memphis. Then on Tuesday as we were packed and ready to head out the door, we heard back from our doctor at NIH. She had more information on the NIH trial. Ella would actually be on a higher dosage of the chemo, and they could get us in right away. Our prayer was that this doctor would weigh-in on what we should do. We felt this was the answer. So, we changed directions and drove to Bethesda instead of Memphis. We're packed for a month, but will only need to stay through early next week.

Ella had her first dose of chemo this morning. It is in pill form, and she handled it like a champ. She's been having labs throughout the day and is in the art room at the moment. She'll take the medicine for five days and then be off for twenty-three days before the next round.

Words cannot express our gratitude to everyone who has prayed so hard for Ella and our family. Please keep it up!

Love & Blessings,
The Newmillers

Prayer request for Elizabeth Rowland--8/1/2011

2011-08-01T12:30:00.000-07:00

I ask that you place Elizabeth on your prayer list. She is a dear elderly lady who is in a Nursing Facility in danger of losing her foot or possibly part of the leg also. Her husband Jack cared for her in the home until it got to be more than he could handle. He stays at her bedside during the day and is often called in at night. This is really taking a toll on his health too, so if you don't mind, say a prayer for him also. He is 85 so this is very hard on him. Thank you and God bless you all.
Blessings, Deb

Prayer request for Ford Family......7/29/2011

2011-07-29T04:23:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends (we were in diapers together, as our parents also grew up together).. He’s a cosmetic surgeon in the tri-cities area… saw some patients yesterday morning ,then went home to lunch (he took over the family farm a few years ago - 150 acres of rolling land… he remodeled the farmhouse, built a new barn.. He went to the barn, called "911" and told them what he was about to do, so his 78 year old father wouldn’t find him.. and then he shot and killed himself. He has two teenage kids… 2 ailing parents in their 70’s.. a sister.. .wife.. a successful dental practice with a staff of 6… patients.. There is no understanding or comprehension as to "why"..

His name was Bart Ford (Dr. Bartley Ford, professionally).. his parents are Bobbie and Elaine Ford. His wife is Dorma and his kids are Will and Julia.

Would you please pray for the family and add them to your prayer list? There is no peace like the peace that only God can bring.

Thank you.

-Jack Rogers

update- Ella Newmiller

2011-07-23T20:12:00.000-07:00

It pains us to say, however, there is also bad news. On Thursday Ella had an MRI. It was one we requested due to some concerns - nothing that anyone would really notice except a parent on the lookout. It turned out, our concerns were valid. The MRI showed progression. We got the news on Friday afternoon. We will return to Duke on Monday afternoon to see if there are any options for us at this point. We have also contacted St. Judes and NIH. Please join us in prayer that doors will open, that Ella continues to feel and be great, and that she is be blessed with a miraculous healing.

As always, thank you for continuing to hold us in your prayers and for being with us on this difficult journey.

Love,
The Newmillers

I lift up my eyes to the hills - where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1-2

Update on Andy Long.....July 23, 2011

2011-07-23T02:31:00.000-07:00

Last Day of Chemo

Song of the Day...NO MO CHEMO...sung by Andy Long! Or should it be Etta James'....AT LAST! A time to celebrate for sure...but the journey is still moving forward. Yes, Andy took his last chemo meds this morning and it's definitely a welcomed milestone to be added to his remarkable life's journal. One I'm sure he'll add with pause, recollection and thankfulness.

Now begins a time to gain back physical strength and hopefully a full recovery from the Neuropathy...which he said was at its height during this last 2 week round of chemo. Along with, I assume, mentally stressed anticipation of the first cat-scan in 6 weeks and it's results.

God Bless all cancer patients...as this is an extremely tough, hilly, bumpy and seemingly never-ending road to travel. We thank God we are so blessed with having such supportive, caring, dependable and awesome friends and family...we count on this and can't express enough how much you all mean to us.

Will still keep you posted...and did I say LIFE IS GOOD!

Hang in there everyone! We love you! Carol & Andy

Prayer Request for Neil Canada....7/16/2011

2011-07-17T02:44:00.000-07:00

I WILL BE HEADING TO EMORY THIS FRIDAY WITH MY CONSULT WITH THE ONCOLOGIST; I WAS ABLE TO GET IN FAST BECAUSE DR NAGUIB CALLED EMORY FOR ME WHICH I AM GRATEFUL FOR.

THE LYMPHOMA SHOWED UP IN MY BONE MARROW BIOPSY SO I AM STAGE FOUR MANTLE CELL LYMPHOMA. IT IS UNBELIEVABLE TO THINK THAT FROM ONE WEEK I HAVE GONE FROM DIAGNOSIS TO STAGE FOUR.

I AM NOT AT A PLACE OF PANIC BECAUSE I HAVE FELT SO BATHED IN YOUR PRAYERS;

I HAVE BEEN OVERWHELMED AND HUMBLED AT EVERYONE’S CONCERN AND THOUGHTFULNESS FOR ME.

I FEEL SO BLESSED TO BE SURROUNDED BY SUCH WONDERFUL PEOPLE AS EACH OF YOU AND AMAZED AT THE WONDERFUL FAMILY GOD HAS BLESSED ME WITH.

I HAVE A CARD WHICH I READ AND NOW CARRY WITH ME THAT SAYS NOTHING AHEAD OF YOU IS BIGGER OR STRONGER THAN THE POWER OF GOD BEHIND YOU AND I BELIEVE THAT

I ALSO HAVE THOUGHT THAT IT IS NOT THE EASY THINGS IN LIFE THAT MAKE US STRONGER BUT THE PROBLEMS THAT CHALLENGE US TO OUR VERY SOUL.

I WILL LET YOU KNOW WHAT THE COURSE OF TREATMENT IS AFTER MY CONSULT ON FRIDAY

GOD BLESS AND I LOVE YOU ALL

NEIL

Request of Prayer for Deb Palmer....7/11/2011

2011-07-12T02:19:00.000-07:00

Dear friends, I have posted many prayer requests and I get much joy and blessings from doing it. If any of you read The Faith and Inspirations part of the Blog, you have probably noticed that my postings have been erratic and some days I have missed completely. I am having some serious health problems and I ask you to please pray for God to touch my body with His amazing power of healing. I had a severe Stroke in 2005 that paralyzed my left side, God pulled me through that and now the only work I do is for Him. I have 3 vertebrae at the bottom of my spine that are protruding and crumbling and causing great pain. I go Wednesday for a MRI on my spine and hips. I ask that you please say a prayer for me between now and then. I am losing the use of my legs and cannot walk alone. Thank you dear Prayer Warriors for every prayer or thought. God bless you, Deb

Dear Friends, I have had the MRI and received the results. The Drs. see little change in my back, just small places of degeneration here and there. I am going to start Physical Therapy and Aquatic Therapy . August 8th. Because I am high risk for the Epidural, they are talking it over saying that I would benefit greatly from it but weighing the risks against the benefits. Please continue to keep me in your prayers. When PRAYERS go up, BLESSING start falling. God bless each of you.
In His name, Deb

UPDATE: On Monday, August 8th, I will start Physical Therapy and also Aquatic Therapy. The Dr. gave me Muscle Relaxers and they have helped greatly. For the first time in many months, the pain is bearable and I feel that we are on the right tract now. I still have not heard whether they will do the Epidural on my back or if they will rule it out because of the risk. Please continue the prayers and I appreciate you so very much.
Blessings, Deb

Prayer Requests

2011-07-10T03:28:00.000-07:00

Ken Young and Jerry Hyatt have both gone on to their heavenly homes. Please pray for their families and friends.

Please add these people and their families to your prayers:
John Latourette - given 3-5 days to live
Ken Young - severe stroke
Jerry Hyatt - under hospice care
Don Davenport - throat cancer
Jane Thompson - broke her ankle and just diagnosed with kidney disease
Dorothy Latourette - hospitalized for unknown reason

Request for Tracy Stines and T.J. .....6/25/2011

2011-06-25T12:05:00.000-07:00

Tracy is in need of prayers, she is the daughter of Donna Sexton and is following in her mothers footsteps. She also is a bad Diabetic and already has 2 heart stints. Please add her to your lists.

T.J. is Tracy's 13 year old son. He has been diagnosed with a disease with a German name that affects the legs. It prevents him from running, playing and being active in sports that he so wants to be in. Please be in prayer for T.J. Blessings, Deb

Prayer request for Donna Sexton...6/25/2011

2011-06-25T11:43:00.000-07:00

Please add Donna to your prayer lists, she is in dire need of all the prayers we can send up to Heaven. We have been friends for 35 years. Donna has had 5 Heart Attacks, has 10 heart stints...which is the limit, is a bad Diabetic, has Cushings Disease and has had a bad Stroke that left her blind in one eye. As if this is not enough, her kidneys are damaged and the Doctors are going to go into the kidneys to clean them out. She has asked the Dr. to be completely honest with her about her chances and she was told; with the kidney procedure, 6 months to a year of Life. Donna loves the Lord and attends Church when able, she has placed her life in God's Hands. We all know what an AWESOME GOD we serve and God's Will for her is what we ask. Donna and I both are very appreciative of every word spoken in her behalf. Blessings, Deb

Donna has now been placed in the care of Hospice, she knows her time is at hand. Please pray that when God calls her home, He will just let her go into a peaceful sleep.
Blessings, Deb

Update on Andy Long.......June 15, 2011

2011-06-15T11:27:00.000-07:00

Round 8 starting NOW

Dr. Chin informed Andy this morning of his follow up routine after he finishes his chemo (One more round after this one and ends July 20th). He'll have his first cat scan 8 weeks after his last infusion and every 4 months after that for 2 years. With good results years 3, 4 & 5 he'll have cat scans every 6 months to a year. He'll have to have a Colonoscopy in December and every 6 months to a year depending upon the results each time. Per Dr. Chin, colon cancer, if it comes back, shows up in the colon and 90% of the time in the liver and lungs, hence the frequency of the cat scans. After 5 years and with no recurrence, you are considered clear and you have blood work done once a year to detect any abnormalities, etc. I can only imagine that the next 5 years will play many anxiety games with ones head....we are fortunate, and thank God he gave us the opportunity to be able to play these darn games! LIFE IS GOOD, challenging at times, but we shall endure!! Hang in there people...and have an awesome day! Carol and Andy :)

Update on Andy Long.........5/25/2011

2011-05-25T17:03:00.000-07:00

Round 7

Andy began Round 7 this morning, which almost didn't happen. Dr. Chin is concerned with the increased Neuropathy Andy is experiencing as Round 6 brought on a painful and scary new side affect...pretty severe pain in one leg, neck and shoulder which caused him to call the doctor on call that night and go in to be checked the next day...to be told it's an extension of the Neuropathy. Prescriptions filled to help with the pain. Hence, Dr. Chin wavering on him starting the Oxyplatin today as he told Andy to expect the pain/side affects to worsen and expressed concern with Andy recovering next time. (Andy generally recovers from the side affects during his week off, but did not totally this time...close, but not 100%). He's feeling ok right now. Actually going to give the dogs a bath! Y'all take care out there! Carol & Andy

Update on Shirley Driggers....5/23/2011

2011-05-23T17:35:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all the prayers!! Shirley has gotten the feeling back in her arm & leg, and is now able to talk!! She's doing much better; "Praise the Lord!!" Please continue to keep her and her family in your prayers..

Prayer request for Shirley Driggers...5/23/2011

2011-05-23T17:33:00.000-07:00

Please pray for Shirley Driggers! She had a heart attack and a stroke yesterday.

Summer ?.......5/15/2011

2011-05-16T02:12:00.000-07:00

Summer has requested prayer. She had a minor surgery Saturday night and is in a lot of pain. Blessings, Deb

Prayer request for Joyce Plemons---5/15/2011

2011-05-16T02:00:00.000-07:00

Please add Joyce to your prayer lists. She has a staph infection in her knee; the doctors have been draining the fluid off for several weeks. Last week the fluid showed Staph Infection. Tuesday they are going to do surgery to remove the knee, put in a block and put her on IV Antibiotics for 6 weeks. At that time they will put a knee replacement if the infection is better. If infection is not gone, she will remain on the medicine for another 6 weeks. This lady has had over 200 surgeries in her life for Arthritis and Blood disease. Please be in prayer especially on Tuesday morning. Thank you and God bless each effort. Blessings, Deb

Update on Ella Newmiller........5/13/2011

2011-05-13T18:56:00.000-07:00

As usual, we have gone quite some time between posts. We have been blessed with busy schedules and healthy children. Since our last post, we have celebrated Easter, spent a few relaxing and fun days at the beach over spring break, had visits from the tooth fairy, marked the third anniversary since Ella's diagnosis, had a Fiesta for Ella's 8th birthday, watched Ella dance at church, had a visit from Grandma, witnessed Ella's first communion, and tried to live life to it's fullest. School will wrap-up in a few weeks, and we're all looking forward to summer.

Often when I lay with Ella before she goes to bed, I am overcome with gratitude that I can be near her and do a simple thing such as put my hand on her arm or leg. God has been so good to us. We hope his blessings are overflowing in your lives as well.

Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers!

Love,
The Newmillers

Needed prayer for Mike Cowan.......05/11/2011

2011-05-11T13:16:00.000-07:00

Please pray for Mike Cowan, former Whitfield Co. Commissioner who was seriously injured and was airlifted to a Chattanooga hospital with “massive head injuries” . Mike was riding his motorcycle and wrecked on Tilton Bridge Road.

Prayer needed for Collin Knapp

2011-04-23T02:17:00.000-07:00

I also have a prayer request
My sisters 4 yr old grandson has leukemia
What this baby has been thru is horrific
This week they moved him to UAB for more chemo then a bone marrow transplant. His name is Collin Knapp. He lives in Mobile Al but for the last year has been mostly in the hospital
May God remove this disease from this precious child's body!

Martha Hulgan and God Bless You All

Update on Gerthal Stover.......4/5/2011

2011-04-04T23:51:00.000-07:00

Gerthal was one of my friends from the Nursing Home Ministry. Last night Gerthal drew her last breath in this world and woke up in Heaven among friends and loved ones. She got to see our beloved Savior. No more pain and suffering, you are home at last Gerthal. Rest in Peace, Deb

Prayer needed for Family of Ruby Newton--4/3/11

2011-04-03T15:48:00.000-07:00

Ruby moved to Heaven this morning about 2:00 am. Please remember her daughter Samantha & her husband Kevin, along with other relatives, in your prayers. That God will send His Angels to comfort the family as they go through the process of saying good-bye. May there also be an acceptance of our Savior in their lives. Blessings, Deb

Request for couple in Afghanistan----4/2/2011

2011-04-02T16:58:00.000-07:00

Every one please be in prayer for our son and daughter-in-law who are now in Kandahar Afghanistan. They were both deployed and we have their 2 year old baby for who knows how long. Please pray for their safe return.
Bob Boyne

Prayers for Monique Demoss.....3/30/2011

2011-03-30T19:08:00.000-07:00

Please share this page with everyone you can. Two reasons: The more people the more notice, the more notice the more attention. Number 2: THE more people the more prayer AND prayer changes things. God has the rulers of this world in His hand. He holds the heart of the ruler, whoever it may be, of Monique's life and even your life and circumstances in His hand. I beg you, please call on Him today for Monique. Let's try Him and see if He is not able to do abundantly more than we could even think! My husbands child was kidnapped to the Netherlands in May of 2010 and we are doing all we can working with the U.S. Department of State and the International Center for missing and exploited children. Please add as many friends to this group as you can!!

Update on Andy Long......3/28/2011

2011-03-28T18:30:00.000-07:00

Seems the Prilosec isn't doing a thing for his queasiness, so I believe he will discontinue it after today. He's definitely getting his sleep time in..Saturday he was awake about 7 hours out of the 24..I now know why they call it "beauty sleep" cause Andy is one darn good looking man! Sunday was better, we went to Kohls and he grilled burgers! And I got the house all cleaned up. He did say he wonders a lot if "your body will return to normal after all this"...will your taste buds be like they were, will your sense of touch be like it was, will your stomach feel like it use to...I don't have the answers to that, but some other important things do remain the same...I LOVE YOU ANDY LONG!! Carol

Update on Gerthal Stover....3/28/2011

2011-03-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

Prayer urgently needed for one of my Nursing Home friends, Gerthal Stover. They had found a tumor in her Esophagus and had started chemo/radiation treatments to try to shrink it since they cannot do surgery on her. She is now in the hospital in really bad shape. Blessings, Deb

Prayer for Lamar Palmer......3/28/2011

2011-03-28T13:26:00.000-07:00

Please add my father-in-law (Dad), Clayton Lamar Palmer, to your prayer lists. He is almost 83 years old and been in the Ministry for over 60 years. He is in the hospital with Pneumonia, a VERY BAD Urinary Tract Infection and erratic Blood Pressure. All your prayers will be greatly appreciated. Blessings, Deb

UPDATE:
Dad came home on Tuesday morning and did good until Wednesday when he had several spells very unlike him and his behavior. They changed a lot of his medicine and he is not reacting well. Please keep him in your prayers. Blessings, Deb

Prayer needed for Bobby Jones.....3/28/2011

2011-03-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

My Pastor, Bobby Jones, is in the hospital and they have called in Hospice. Please be in prayer for him and for his family.

UPDATE:
Pastor Bobby is at home but the outlook is not good. The doctors say he could go at any time. His body is throwing blood clots to his brain, they tried blood thinners but that caused internal bleeding. Only God can make a difference now.
Blessings, Deb

Update on Andy Long.........3/23/2011

2011-03-23T16:58:00.000-07:00

Dr. Chin told Andy this morning that he is doing good and is doing everything he should be to stay on top of this. His counts were actually up from where they were when he started Round 3. Numbness already setting in on his forearm where the IV was started this morning. His spirits are up compared to last evening, as he was very apprehensive about starting again today knowing he was going into it more tired than the last time. Dr. Chin recommended he take Prilosec for the queasiness instead of Kytril as it would make him even more tired. Carol

Prayer needed for Effler Family......3/22/2011

2011-03-22T15:05:00.000-07:00

Please pray for Effler family, Son shot and killed himself this afternoon.He had 3 children.Please pray.........

Andy Long Update: 3?22/2011

2011-03-22T14:43:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow morning starts Round 4!! So, today is the last day of his "off" cycle...and it has not been rewarding at all...I hear him say "what happened to the good days I should have had". Ugh...I wish I could do something to make it better, and Yes, I know that is beyond my control, but I can wish it for him just the same. His taste buds got better this past week, but the queasiness has not let up at all, nor the total exhaustion. My diagnosis so far: Andy is doing pretty darn good, but I know it takes major determination on his part to push forward each day, and I thank God he has given him the drive to do so. Carol

update on Ella Newmiller

2011-03-16T14:25:00.000-07:00

Ella continues to do amazing. The Re-irradiation has appeared to work well. She does have some days of not feeling well, but on the whole she gets around and has no symptoms that are apparent. Very much her sassy self.

Thank you for your continued prayers. It works.

Mark, Renae, Ella, and Jack

Update on Andy Long.....3/15.2011

2011-03-15T15:20:00.000-07:00

Quick update...his energy level is low...he's at home resting. He made a comment this morning about his feet..saying they feel leathery, kinda like they would if you had just walked 7 miles on them...but they are as soft as a baby's butt! He's doing what the doc told him to do and that is lotion those puppies up 2-3 times a day! It's just one more side effect kicking in...numbness in hands and feet, (not total numbness, only on the bottom of his feet, just kinda like it feels when your foot/hand goes to sleep!) Tomorrow morning ends Round 3 and he's off chemo for a week! Yippee!! We remain; Hanging in There!! :)

Message from Hallcox Family....3/15/2011

2011-03-14T22:06:00.000-07:00

Watching college bass fishing, couldn't help but think Cody would have been a "pro" if he had the chance to have done this. The scholarship tournament for Midway in Cody's honor is coming up on May 14 at Watts Bar dam. Hope to see all you fishermen there.

Pray for MaryAnne Wilson-Premeeaux/ 3/14/2011

2011-03-13T21:43:00.000-07:00

We are organizing a card drive for our beloved friend, Maryanne! Maryanne is in the hospital, and recently had brain surgery for a tumor that was partially removed. She faces chemo and radiation treatments. Maryanne has been diagnosed with Stage 4, glioblastoma brain cancer. As of yesterday, Maryanne said she will be in the hospital until around until March 28th, so we are going to be sending cards to her home address.

Maryanne's home address is:

Maryanne Wilson-Premeaux
7231 S Dooley Dr
Tuscon, AZ. 85746

2011-03-12T13:57:00.000-08:00

Please Be in prayer for the people of Japan and the Pacific rim. An underwater earthquake off Japan's northeast coast has caused destruction and hundreds of deaths, and sent huge walls of water across the Pacific Ocean towards Hawaii, Australia, and the North and South American coastlines.

Update on Andy Long......3/9/2011

2011-03-09T13:14:00.000-08:00

Here we are, one week into Round 3, and I must say there are some changes going on. Andy said last night it is going to be a long next 4 and a half months...especially if he is going to feel this queasiness, upset stomach the entire time as it makes you feel crappy, basically all over. He's going to start taking one additional nausea pill today and see if that helps any...so one every 6 hours while awake. I know I've mentioned EVERY time how exhausted he feels...it's hard to describe...but it's effects are enhanced the more chemo he takes. Cancer..it not only touches your body but your mind too. You think about what the oncologist says...the chemo is going to take a little more from you each time, the side affects are going to hit you harder and harder. I'm sure it crosses your mind each day "what's next"... Andy's 2 weeks on chemo and one week off for 6 months ends July 20th. So, 6 more Rounds to go after completing this one. Day one is infusion followed by 14 days of chemo pills, 8 per day, taken 4 in the morning and 4 at night. In the beginning he would pop these things in his mouth like they were M&M's...and now he hesitates putting them in his mouth and almost choking them down...this crap wears on you in so many ways. Please don't think we are complaining...just trying to be as frank as we can in this journal..no sugar coating...This will one day just be a memory. Take care of yourselves...Love, Carol

Request for Carrie Anderson........3/8/2011

2011-03-08T03:13:00.000-08:00

Carrie Anderson
The pain is severe in my back, hurts just to breathe, many spasms. I appreciate all your prayers on this matter for my family.Thank you, Annette Medlin

Request for Frank Baker.....3/8/2011

2011-03-08T03:10:00.000-08:00

- Please pray for Maggie's Dad, Frank Baker. He has arrhythmia which is a rapid heart beat for the past 3 days. . His cardiologist says this is a normal side effect of surgery and medication should control it. Pray that the arrhythmia stops and the heart beat returns to normal, and that Mr. Baker recovers quickly and regains his strength, in Jesus Name. Amen. Thank you!! Annette Medlin

Request for Sally Curtis......3/8/2011

2011-03-08T03:07:00.000-08:00

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:
For Sally Curtis; She was found yesterday on her bathroom floor. Right now its touch & go.
Blessings, Deb

Prayer request for Dawn Gunia......3/8/2011

2011-03-08T03:02:00.000-08:00

Dawn Gunia ~ URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:
OK, I just got a notice that since my rent is late and if I don't pay it by the 9th they will be starting proceedings to evict me!! :( ALL My bills are Late! LORD Please HELP Me!! I am counting on YOU!!!
Dawn is out of work and in need of many prayers. Thank you, Deb

Prayer request for Mrs. McClanahan...3/6/2011

2011-03-06T00:03:00.000-08:00

David McClanahan has asked me to request prayer for his elderly Mother. She is in her 80's and is so sick she cannot get out of bed. Up until now she was doing great for her age. Prayers are appreciated, thank you.
Blessings, Deb

UPDATE:
Two weeks ago, Margaret McClanahan was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Wednesday morning at 9:00 she passed from this world to her Heavenly home. Please pray for the family.
Blessings, Deb

Prayer request for Unemployed.....3/6/2011

2011-03-05T23:46:00.000-08:00

This is a special request for prayer. With the Economy being so bad and so many out of work, I invite you to join me in prayer for all those that are out of work and cannot find jobs. I live in the Carpet Capital of the World and the unemployment rate is pretty high. Many I have befriended on FB are without work and many are in danger of losing everything they have worked for all their life. This and the Homeless are close to my heart, I hope you join me in daily prayer for these dear people. May God bless each and everyone of you.
Blessings, Deb

Updated request on Andy Long......3/4/2011

2011-03-04T15:50:00.000-08:00

Hello World...How You Been...Please take care of my Andy. Help him stay strong as this wicked cancer word and it's destructive nature can take it's toll on even the strongest of men. Carol

Prayer request for Joe Yother......3/1/2011

2011-03-01T15:46:00.000-08:00

Joe is in dire need of your prayers. He is in the hospital facing 6 bypass Open Heart surgery. He is a family friend and a Policeman, putting his life in danger to protect others. Please add him to your thoughts and prayers as he is fighting for his life now. Thank you; God bless, Deb

PRAISE God for answered prayers!! Joe had surgery on 3/2 and instead of 6 bypass, only had to have 3 bypass. They had told him he would be in ICU for a week but was moved out in a room on 3/5. He is doing great except for the soreness and Doctors are expecting a full recovery. Amen

Prayers needed for Gerthal Stover...3/1/2011

2011-03-01T15:36:00.000-08:00

Please add Gerthal to your prayer lists. She is a resident at the Nursing home with my cousin. They have found a tumor in her Esophagus and are unable to do surgery. She is to start treatments of Radiation Thursday to try to shrink the tumor. Blessings, Deb

Message from Hallcox Family.....2/26/2011

2011-02-26T00:52:00.000-08:00

I emailed Bassmaster magazine about 2 months ago with Cody' picture of him and his big bass, and a short story about him. It is in the March issue, on page 82. I know he would be so proud. I would like to thank Bassmaster for publishing the story. Great organization!