Total Peace

It’s a new beginning for my friend Becky. A number of years ago, a MRI reveled a parasagittal meningioma. The risk of cancer was low and the decision was made to carefully watch the progression of the brain tumor, rather than remove it.

This past year, the tumor began to grow. Becky and her husband, Doyle, investigated options and met with doctors. The recommendation was surgery. The tumor had to come out.

Two days before the scheduled surgery, a prayer service was held in the chapel at church. Friends and family brought scripture to read during the service, calming heart and mind. Not once during the service did my sweet friend shed a tear. Becky was completely trusting in God’s plan for her life and especially in light of the impending surgery. No matter the outcome, she was at peace.

The surgery went well, extremely well. The benign tumor was encapsulated, a “golf ball” as opposed to an “octopus” with tentacles reaching into brain tissue. This made the tumor somewhat easier to remove. A blessing. Becky was home to recuperate four days after the surgery.

Three weeks later she attended our women’s Bible study, her first outing not counting medical appointments. Another blessing. She was showered with love. As she recounted her surgery, I was stuck with her testimony. Not once did she experience butterflies. A peace filled her that was beyond understanding. She was relaxed, fully awake, and cognizant of her surroundings as she was wheeled into the OR. Becky described the surgical suite, complete with a MRI to check that the tumor had been completely removed.

After the surgery, light and sound were bothersome. As a result she rested under a blanket, attempting to block out all stimuli. Instead of complaining of boredom and discomfort Becky savored this quiet time to spend worshiping her Savior, counting her blessings, and giving God the glory for her successful surgery. She was and remains fully aware of the fact that things could have been very different.

Becky’s healing has been incredible. The facial bruising has disappeared. Her vision is fully restored. I continue to pray for my friend’s full recovery. It will take time but she has the Great Physician seeing to every detail. It’s a new beginning… no tumor, increased faith, and a testimony to share.

LORD my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me.

Psalm 30:2

How have you or someone you love experienced God’s healing touch?

Note on the photo: During occupational therapy, Becky made a Scandinavian ribbon ornament for me. I was so humbled to receive such a thoughtful gift. It sits in a place of honor in my family room.