The Battle Rages On

In April, we provided an update on Pam’s progress in her battle with stomach cancer.  Since then, she has enjoyed Kristyn’s prom, Logan and William’s birthdays (grandsons) and a special gathering of former Jasperites who are now in the West.  Additionally, she has had some special time with her family as they have come to Utah to assist with her care.  Pam has appreciated their personal sacrifices in being with her and their day to day support. 

The Ward members have also been great with their many acts of kindness whether it be bringing flowers, meals for the family, or just stopping by to chat.  The Young Women have also been very supportive of Kristyn and Kari.  Having the sacrament brought to the home by the Aaronic Priesthood has also been something very special to Pam.  Home and visiting teachers have been a great help for the family and Pam.  We also have a very special and loving Bishop.

Pam has also received many cards and letters from those she has touched with her Spirit.  Our old friends from Jasper got together and sent her a Daily Dose of Happiness for about 30 days.  This also meant a lot to Pam and her family.  Ryan’s wife, Lex, has also been great in caring for Pam and we really appreciate her efforts.  We also appreciate Dr. Wright who has been with Pam throughout her journey to fight the cancer.

Above all, she has been able to spend some special time with Jason, Jennifer, Eric, Ryan, Amanda, Kristyn and Kari.  We are hopeful Shaun will also be able to visit her in the near future.  These have been choice experiences for Pam and all of her family.

Unfortunately, Pam has had several setbacks in her battle.  In June, she had to be hospitalized with a partial blockage in her bowel.  This was followed by another visit to the hospital in July and another one this past weekend due to her sodium level being so high that it was “uncharted territory”.  With each setback, she has continued to be brave, courageous and determined.  However, fighting stomach cancer is like using rocks to wage war against an enemy with all of the modern weaponry.  And to quote Forest Gump, “Sometimes, there just aren’t enough rocks.”

When Pam decided to forego chemotherapy, her doctor told her that she would be “dead in 3-6 months.”  She just passed the 7^th month mark since that declaration.  It is her valiant effort in managing her diet and her faith that has brought her this far.  Many prayers have been offered on her behalf and her name has been on numerous prayer rolls in the temples.  At this point, the miracle we had all been praying for does not appear likely.  The cancer has attacked her relentlessly and she has fought back like a valiant soldier.  But, it has taken its toll on her body.  More complications are weakening her day by day.

While we still pray for a miracle, we recognize that Heavenly Father may have a plan for her that does not include the miracle we hope for but a miracle that is beyond our current understanding.  If that is the case, her family is confident that she has been valiant in her testimony of Jesus Christ, that she has served her family and others in a manner  that is truly Christlike and her life is one of celebration.  She may have finished her race and the rest of us will have to finish ours and try to be as valiant as she has been.  As her husband, I know her to be “an elect lady.”

The battle does continue to rage but we do not think it will be long before the Savior’s words bring meaning to Pam and her family, “Peace, be still.”