Thank you to the faithful ones who have stuck it out with me during my 31 Days of Our Lives. Today is a very special day because of two reasons: A Guestpost & A Giveaway!
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and today I have asked my dear friend, Kara, to share about her breast cancer journey. I wanted to include her in this 31 Days of Our Lives, because she is a part of our lives despite the miles between us right now. I am so grateful for her friendship and I hope after you read her story, you will be inspired by her courageous spirit and in her Hope that never fails.
I am honored that Caroline would use one of her 31 days to share about me and therefore, spread the word about Breast Cancer. On July 26th, 2011, my journey through Breast Cancer diagnosis and treatment began. This is a journey I never thought I would start taking at 33 years old but that is what it is…a journey. The journey has required many steps, some unknown and a few that were known at the time. There have definitely been a few twists and turns, but we prayed for as few as possible and God heard our prayers. We have met some new friends along the way who have provided my medical care. And though there were many unknowns, the destination has always been clear ~ we will be more like Jesus.
On my CaringBridge page I talk about what the Lord showed me in those first few days after we found out.
“I see a God who loves me and has ordered every step of this journey so far and will continue to do so. I see a husband who is so strong, wise and loving and by having dealt with a lot of hard stuff in his life already has been prepared to hold my hand through it all. I see two little miracles that will keep a smile on my face and life as “normal” as possible. I see parents that would take this sickness themselves if God would allow it. And I see a community of friends who are willing to help with the details while pouring scripture and prayer over me. So I don’t question why I have to take this journey, I just know that I have everything I need to take it.”
One thing I didn’t mention at the time was that I was equipped with a faith that dates back to my late high school and college years under the leadership of Greg and Caroline TeSelle. I am so grateful for all that Greg and Caroline poured into me during those years and have been able to trust in a Sovereign God because of the foundation of faith gained during that time.
Today, October 23, Kara’s Krew {many of my family and friends} will gather together to show their support and walk/run in the Race for the Cure in Hunt Valley, MD. The love and support of our family and friends have been amazing, and we have truly experienced the Body of Christ in a whole new way since this all began.
I have lived away from Greg and Caroline for many years now (something I desperately wish were not true) but they are key members of Kara’s Krew as they have shown their support through handwritten letters, emails, texts, and most importantly prayers. Something the TeSelles have taught me over the years is that life is all about loving God and loving people. Cancer has definitely reminded me of that.
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Isn’t she absolutely amazing?
About the Giveaway: Because I love Kara, and in an effort to raise awareness about Breast Cancer and to share Kara’s story, my friend Angela of Button Bird Designs is giving away one of her Coffee Sack Hobo Bag’s from her Etsy store to one of you.
To enter the giveaway:
1. Visit Button Bird Designs & her Etsy shop
2. Come back here, click “Leave a Reply” at the bottom of this post, and simply leave a reply ~ that will be your entry!
Also, we’re friends, right? And friends like to share ~ if you are on facebook or twitter, can you share this post with your friends? It’s a simple way to share Kara’s story & raise awareness about Breast Cancer. {See the Share This: at the bottom of the post? A simple way to share!} Thank you!
{This giveaway is only open to US residents.} I will keep the giveaway open until 11:59 pm Tuesday & I will announce the winner by 12:00 pm on 10/26.
{Winner announced here!}
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8 more 31 Days left! Tomorrow ~ I’ll be telling someone Happy Birthday!
