Judy's Journey
One Year
03. September 2014 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
It doesn’t seem real that Judy left us one whole year ago. In the ways of heartache, it feels like forever since we’ve held her soft hand…heartache seems to make time drag on with no relief, like chasing down a sunset. But in the ways of day-to-day life, one year has flown by. How can it possibly have been that long? Just 2 weeks ago, it seems, I was brushing Mom’s hair or taking her to Dairy Queen for a blizzard.
Wow. One year.
Marking today with moments of remembrance helps me to reflect on how God has been actively working. It helps me to continue to heal. It helps me to renew my hope in how the Lord has overcome cancer, death, brokenness, loneliness of the “least of these”…we can rise up in joyous anticipation because of His conquest.
Amen.
To read one more tribute, see here.
Love, Aleisha
Wow. One year.
Marking today with moments of remembrance helps me to reflect on how God has been actively working. It helps me to continue to heal. It helps me to renew my hope in how the Lord has overcome cancer, death, brokenness, loneliness of the “least of these”…we can rise up in joyous anticipation because of His conquest.
Amen.
To read one more tribute, see here.
Love, Aleisha
3/3/14
02. March 2014 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
I’m not one to usually keep track of how many days/weeks/months have passed after an event. But there are just certain monumental occasions that happen in each of our lives in which, afterwards, we make the deliberate choice to reminisce upon. Momma’s passing is certainly a noteworthy date in the lives of so many, particularly the Newton family. And tomorrow marks the half a year mark signifying a full six months that we have, sometimes graciously and sometimes unwillingly, lived without Judy.
And so, this day I choose to reminisce.
But my reminiscing isn’t only filled with sorrow. It isn’t just a pang in the heart when I think about what I wish I could tell Momma about my day, about last week, about upcoming decisions. It isn’t just a process of missing her sometimes so desperately I seem to shrivel up. It isn’t just a look back on all the daily reminders that she’s not with us.
It is certainly those things. But it’s not just those things.
And so, this day I choose to reminisce.
But my reminiscing isn’t only filled with sorrow. It isn’t just a pang in the heart when I think about what I wish I could tell Momma about my day, about last week, about upcoming decisions. It isn’t just a process of missing her sometimes so desperately I seem to shrivel up. It isn’t just a look back on all the daily reminders that she’s not with us.
It is certainly those things. But it’s not just those things.
Rather, I want my reminiscing to be centered around enlightenment…maybe even of wisdom. Momma’s journey was not in vain, undoubtedly. Two and a half years after our worlds were warped, six months after her death — we are still seeing ripples. Ripples that we earnestly prayed for…Lord, let her life and her trial not go to waste.
And Oh…. The beauty of Judy’s Journey was far from wasted.
With that being the case, I think that the time after journey’s completion should not be wasted either. What has been learned, what has been sought after, what has been discovered? How am I different, how am I blessed, how am I changed?
And Oh…. The beauty of Judy’s Journey was far from wasted.
With that being the case, I think that the time after journey’s completion should not be wasted either. What has been learned, what has been sought after, what has been discovered? How am I different, how am I blessed, how am I changed?
There are quite a few things I could say to answer those simplistic yet grueling questions. Meet me for coffee if you’d like to hear. 
Lord, let us not forget the anguish, the ordeal, or Your mercy.
But Lord, let us remember even more
Your Truth,
Your divine inner peace,
Your redemption,
& Your whispers.
But Lord, let us remember even more
Your Truth,
Your divine inner peace,
Your redemption,
& Your whispers.
Momma, we reminisce about you today and tomorrow.
It feels like yesterday I was holding your hand.
We remember you so very, very, very often. We miss you desperately.
But thank you for being a vessel; allowing God to enlighten us and prep us to fill the earth with love until we meet you once more.
It feels like yesterday I was holding your hand.
We remember you so very, very, very often. We miss you desperately.
But thank you for being a vessel; allowing God to enlighten us and prep us to fill the earth with love until we meet you once more.
Some Days
07. November 2013 · 3 comments · Categories: Mom
Some days, your chest just wants to shrivel up from the ache.
Some days, it doesn’t feel real.
And some days, the tears aren’t for you.
Most days are okay. With an eternal hope, community, purpose in the story, and peace straight from above, most days are pretty good! We’re living. We’re loving. And God is placing needs before us that weren’t ever “in the plan” before. What can we do? There’s only one thing — Praise Him. And rest in the joy that Judy now knows.
But those “some days” will seriously getcha.
Days of longing, yearning, memories, and missing. Days of utter disbelief. And days where you think you’re crying for you…but really, you’re crying for the world. Or for a long lost friend experiencing trial. Or for something far bigger than yourself & your loved one, in which the Lord is intertwining your heart with another’s and you don’t even realize it.
Some days, it doesn’t feel real.
And some days, the tears aren’t for you.
Most days are okay. With an eternal hope, community, purpose in the story, and peace straight from above, most days are pretty good! We’re living. We’re loving. And God is placing needs before us that weren’t ever “in the plan” before. What can we do? There’s only one thing — Praise Him. And rest in the joy that Judy now knows.
But those “some days” will seriously getcha.
Days of longing, yearning, memories, and missing. Days of utter disbelief. And days where you think you’re crying for you…but really, you’re crying for the world. Or for a long lost friend experiencing trial. Or for something far bigger than yourself & your loved one, in which the Lord is intertwining your heart with another’s and you don’t even realize it.
Time is a funny thing.
It passes WAY too quickly.
And yet Time moves, slowly, to its own beat. As fast as it flies, you can’t rush it. Time won’t let you.
Because Time knows you need it.
As a great healer, but not the ultimate One, Time will only allow you to take a daily step and a momentary breath.
Time has no remorse in its painful dragging. It knows the end result of its purposeful passing will be far superior to what instantaneous alleviation could have ever accomplished.
And we realize the depths of Time most vividly only when we are in the midst of extraordinary trials.
So many souls endure those trials every single day. The world is broken. Even Time knows that, and therein lies its great purpose.
So Time journeys on,
towing us along,
crying at our “some days” and smiling at our “most”.
Behind its incessant beating, lies the One who made it and designed it so purposefully.
Time’s Creator uses it as His tool to deliver LIFE, redemption, opportunity, and the passive power of remedy.
It passes WAY too quickly.
And yet Time moves, slowly, to its own beat. As fast as it flies, you can’t rush it. Time won’t let you.
Because Time knows you need it.
As a great healer, but not the ultimate One, Time will only allow you to take a daily step and a momentary breath.
Time has no remorse in its painful dragging. It knows the end result of its purposeful passing will be far superior to what instantaneous alleviation could have ever accomplished.
And we realize the depths of Time most vividly only when we are in the midst of extraordinary trials.
So many souls endure those trials every single day. The world is broken. Even Time knows that, and therein lies its great purpose.
So Time journeys on,
towing us along,
crying at our “some days” and smiling at our “most”.
Behind its incessant beating, lies the One who made it and designed it so purposefully.
Time’s Creator uses it as His tool to deliver LIFE, redemption, opportunity, and the passive power of remedy.
Miss you, Mama!
Thanks, Lord, for enabling the some days so we can have, and appreciate, the most days.
Thanks, Lord, for enabling the some days so we can have, and appreciate, the most days.
Thank you to Central
07. November 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
From the Newtons, printed in the Central bulletin on 10/20/13. We are just so very grateful.
“Thank you!” Two small words that are very significant and meaningful in our hearts when we think of our Central family. At the same time, these two words are not near adequate enough to express the passion and appreciation we feel for you, our family. There is no way we can repay you for all the prayers, the notes, the cards, the meals, the hugs, the tears, the words of encouragement and the financial offerings you have blessed us with during these two years of Judy’s war with cancer. You have “laid up treasure in heaven” through your love, your service and your ministries.
Wow, thank you.
“Family” Another miniature word but mighty in service, in love and in compassion. Through you, our Central family, God’s Holy Spirit has walked with us as you have held up our hands when we felt overwhelmed during this struggle. This family is strong, compassionate, merciful and full of our Father’s grace and love. Thank you for your faithfulness to us.
“Glory” We have seen the glory of God through you and through Judy these two years — a glory which will shine in our hearts until our faith becomes sight. Thank you, our Central family for showing us God’s glory in a real and continual way. May HE be praised for all good works you’ve done and for His mighty plan we’ve seen played out these past two years.
Thank you so much.
We love you,
Lanny, Aleisha, and Zachary Newton
“Thank you!” Two small words that are very significant and meaningful in our hearts when we think of our Central family. At the same time, these two words are not near adequate enough to express the passion and appreciation we feel for you, our family. There is no way we can repay you for all the prayers, the notes, the cards, the meals, the hugs, the tears, the words of encouragement and the financial offerings you have blessed us with during these two years of Judy’s war with cancer. You have “laid up treasure in heaven” through your love, your service and your ministries.
Wow, thank you.
“Family” Another miniature word but mighty in service, in love and in compassion. Through you, our Central family, God’s Holy Spirit has walked with us as you have held up our hands when we felt overwhelmed during this struggle. This family is strong, compassionate, merciful and full of our Father’s grace and love. Thank you for your faithfulness to us.
“Glory” We have seen the glory of God through you and through Judy these two years — a glory which will shine in our hearts until our faith becomes sight. Thank you, our Central family for showing us God’s glory in a real and continual way. May HE be praised for all good works you’ve done and for His mighty plan we’ve seen played out these past two years.
Thank you so much.
We love you,
Lanny, Aleisha, and Zachary Newton
Celebration!
12. September 2013 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
I believe that most everyone is already aware, but I want to make sure –
We will be celebrating Judy’s Journey this coming Saturday, the 14th, at 2:00 pm at Central Church of Christ (chapel) ! We are excited about this time of honoring mom and praising our Lord. You are welcome to come if you can make it.
We will have a reception following the ceremony for attendees to be able to talk with the family.
Love to all,
Momma, I miss you.
We will be celebrating Judy’s Journey this coming Saturday, the 14th, at 2:00 pm at Central Church of Christ (chapel) ! We are excited about this time of honoring mom and praising our Lord. You are welcome to come if you can make it.
We will have a reception following the ceremony for attendees to be able to talk with the family.
Love to all,
Momma, I miss you.
No title
06. September 2013 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
Our family feels a very real peace today. We are thankful for that. The journey has been a blessing.
Although this song below is much more sad than how I feel at the moment, the words are beautiful and ring true for me today as we buried Mom this morning.
Although this song below is much more sad than how I feel at the moment, the words are beautiful and ring true for me today as we buried Mom this morning.
“Mama, you gave life to me
Turned a baby into a lady
And mama, all you had to offer
Was a promise of a lifetime of love
Turned a baby into a lady
And mama, all you had to offer
Was a promise of a lifetime of love
Now I know
There is no other
Love like a mothers
Love for her child
There is no other
Love like a mothers
Love for her child
And I know
A love so complete someday must leave
Must say goodbye
A love so complete someday must leave
Must say goodbye
Goodbye’s the saddest word I’ll ever hear
Goodbye’s the last time I will hold you near
Someday you’ll say that word and I will cry
It’ll break my heart to hear you say goodbye
Goodbye’s the last time I will hold you near
Someday you’ll say that word and I will cry
It’ll break my heart to hear you say goodbye
Mama, you gave love to me
Turned a young one, into a woman
And mama, all I ever needed
Was a guarantee of you lovin’ me
Turned a young one, into a woman
And mama, all I ever needed
Was a guarantee of you lovin’ me
Cause I know
There is no other
Love like a mothers
Love for her child
There is no other
Love like a mothers
Love for her child
And it hurts
But something so strong
Someday’ll be gone
Must say goodbye
But something so strong
Someday’ll be gone
Must say goodbye
Goodbye’s the saddest word I’ll ever hear
Goodbye’s the last time I will hold you near
Someday you’ll say that word and I will cry
It’ll break my heart to hear you say goodbye
But the love you give will always live
Goodbye’s the last time I will hold you near
Someday you’ll say that word and I will cry
It’ll break my heart to hear you say goodbye
But the love you give will always live
You’ll always be there every time I fall
You are to me the greatest love of all
You take my weakness and you make me strong
And I will always love you till forever comes
You are to me the greatest love of all
You take my weakness and you make me strong
And I will always love you till forever comes
And when you need me
I’ll be there for you always
I’ll be there your whole life through
I’ll be there this I’ll promise you
Mama
I’ll be there for you always
I’ll be there your whole life through
I’ll be there this I’ll promise you
Mama
I’ll be your leader through the darkest night
I’ll be the wings’ that guide your broken flight
I’ll be your shelter through the raging storm
And I will love you till forever comes
I’ll be the wings’ that guide your broken flight
I’ll be your shelter through the raging storm
And I will love you till forever comes
Goodbye’s the saddest word I’ll ever hear
Goodbye’s the last time I will hold you near
Someday you say that word and I will cry
It’ll break my heart to hear you say goodbye
Till we meet again, until then, goodbye”
Goodbye’s the last time I will hold you near
Someday you say that word and I will cry
It’ll break my heart to hear you say goodbye
Till we meet again, until then, goodbye”
Healed
03. September 2013 · 4 comments · Categories: Mom
Judy’s earthly Journey ended today as she began her heavenly adventure,
hand-in-hand with her Savior — the One she has loved all her life.
8/29/13
29. August 2013 · 4 comments · Categories: Mom, Update
A few of people have asked for an update recently on Mom and her condition. We absolutely appreciate the inquiries, check-ins, and those who regularly look at this site for updates — thank you so much for your support!
As of this week, Momma has been bedridden for 24 weeks. Mom was responding, with facial expressions more so than words, up until the past 3-4 weeks. Before that time, Mom was in and out of sleeping and alertness. Not quite as restless as previously — just mostly comfortable in bed (thank the Lord for that comfort!). She could crack a smile or snort out a laugh when I said something funny; on rare occasions she would repeat a word/phrase after someone said it. In all of those little blessings, it’s still mightily humbling to compare the situation now to where we were in January. Or say, even August 2011. This whole journey of glorifying God began on just October 4th, 2011. How quickly things change!
And so. There have been drastic changes in this most recent month. Poor sweet momma. We are told that she’s getting down to the very end… There’s unreadable blood pressure, it’s so low; paused breathing; other physical attributes that are saddening to type out, so I won’t. There have certainly been ups and downs during this whole process, but now we have the gift of eternal healing seemingly staring us in the face.
It’s something you can’t ever truly be prepared for no matter how long or short a terminal illness may last. And when the day of final healing comes, I’m sure I won’t be ready for it then either.
So while we can, we are: cherishing the moments, soaking in the presence of the Lord that is uninterruptedly dwelling in her room, blessing her, being blessed by her, still talking to her knowing somehow she can hear, and being in awe of the million things that are truly going on in her head and in the spiritual realm around that her we can’t see!
Our God is alive. Judy is still alive. And there’s purpose in that.
Purpose for the moment.
As of this week, Momma has been bedridden for 24 weeks. Mom was responding, with facial expressions more so than words, up until the past 3-4 weeks. Before that time, Mom was in and out of sleeping and alertness. Not quite as restless as previously — just mostly comfortable in bed (thank the Lord for that comfort!). She could crack a smile or snort out a laugh when I said something funny; on rare occasions she would repeat a word/phrase after someone said it. In all of those little blessings, it’s still mightily humbling to compare the situation now to where we were in January. Or say, even August 2011. This whole journey of glorifying God began on just October 4th, 2011. How quickly things change!
And so. There have been drastic changes in this most recent month. Poor sweet momma. We are told that she’s getting down to the very end… There’s unreadable blood pressure, it’s so low; paused breathing; other physical attributes that are saddening to type out, so I won’t. There have certainly been ups and downs during this whole process, but now we have the gift of eternal healing seemingly staring us in the face.
It’s something you can’t ever truly be prepared for no matter how long or short a terminal illness may last. And when the day of final healing comes, I’m sure I won’t be ready for it then either.
So while we can, we are: cherishing the moments, soaking in the presence of the Lord that is uninterruptedly dwelling in her room, blessing her, being blessed by her, still talking to her knowing somehow she can hear, and being in awe of the million things that are truly going on in her head and in the spiritual realm around that her we can’t see!
Our God is alive. Judy is still alive. And there’s purpose in that.
Purpose for the moment.
Called to endure
23. June 2013 · 3 comments · Categories: Mom, Update
In April, Dad prayed with a heart after His: “How long, Lord, O how long?”
I remember that so very clearly. Nothing is drastically different with Mom’s condition now compared to then — at either point time, all of this is stinkin’ hard. But beyond that, the prayer was not one on the behalf of Dad, me, or Zach…rather, with an endearing and ever-urgent cry out, the prayer was for Mom.
How much must she endure?
How long, O Lord…how long?
I think that no matter where we are at in our lives, that is a valid question to ask. We were not made to dwell on this earth forever. We don’t wholly belong here. And yet we must endure. And we must endure this world with patience and with hope.
And it’s stinkin’ hard!
But I don’t think God sees our questioning and our ever-urgent cries to Him as disrespect. No..rather, I think He sees it as beautiful… It’s endearing to Him because He sees straight to our hearts, straight through our pain, and He feels our longing. Not a feeling of just sympathy, but emphatically He connects to our souls and understands beyond what we can even voice.
That’s because He longs to be with us just as much as we long for His final return. What good news — our longing is not a one-sided relationship! He wants our hearts JUST as much as we long for His arms to wrap us up, end all earthly misery, and take us from this place of being bedridden. Of being helpless. Of being fearful.
He longs to share His joy with us just as much as we yearn to cling to His Light.
I remember that so very clearly. Nothing is drastically different with Mom’s condition now compared to then — at either point time, all of this is stinkin’ hard. But beyond that, the prayer was not one on the behalf of Dad, me, or Zach…rather, with an endearing and ever-urgent cry out, the prayer was for Mom.
How much must she endure?
How long, O Lord…how long?
I think that no matter where we are at in our lives, that is a valid question to ask. We were not made to dwell on this earth forever. We don’t wholly belong here. And yet we must endure. And we must endure this world with patience and with hope.
And it’s stinkin’ hard!
But I don’t think God sees our questioning and our ever-urgent cries to Him as disrespect. No..rather, I think He sees it as beautiful… It’s endearing to Him because He sees straight to our hearts, straight through our pain, and He feels our longing. Not a feeling of just sympathy, but emphatically He connects to our souls and understands beyond what we can even voice.
That’s because He longs to be with us just as much as we long for His final return. What good news — our longing is not a one-sided relationship! He wants our hearts JUST as much as we long for His arms to wrap us up, end all earthly misery, and take us from this place of being bedridden. Of being helpless. Of being fearful.
He longs to share His joy with us just as much as we yearn to cling to His Light.
And so we ask:
How long, Lord, O how long ’til we get to bask in your presence?!
Lord, let it not be too long!
When our time of earthly endurance is over, what a grand celebration will be had by all! But for Momma specifically: until our Father brings His daughter home, Mom has been the ultimate example of enduring trials with patience, peace, perseverance, and a priority set on the Lord. How blessed am I to be able to see that firsthand and I will strive to live my life in the same manner.How long, Lord, O how long ’til we get to bask in your presence?!
Lord, let it not be too long!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Momma is about the same overall — really, each day is different and we’ve had some really fantastic days recently where she tries to talk, where she’s alert, or where she’s smiling and even being goofy! And we’ve had some very rough days, as well. Overall, she’s still not able to move or communicate… We have no idea what’s happening in her head, physically with the tumor or mentally in a world all her own. However, we have such peace knowing that the Lord is with her constantly and comforting her every fear & counting her every tear. Her physical body showed all the signs of passing back in March, yet Mom does not do anything normal! Her and God, together, are writing her own ending and how beautiful that is.
Please pray for Judy, for her endurance, for our family’s endurance, and most of all please pray for God’s glory to be overwhelming in, through, in spite of, and because of this situation.
Please pray for Judy, for her endurance, for our family’s endurance, and most of all please pray for God’s glory to be overwhelming in, through, in spite of, and because of this situation.
Unchanging
12. May 2013 · 2 comments · Categories: Mom
Life on this good earth is a constant cycle of changes and it’s normal, it’s natural. It’s fun. It’s exciting.
However, I find myself often clinging to the one thing that isn’t altered. Ever. The healing hand of God.
That sweet hand!
Sometimes I can almost feel its warmth, its power, its gentleness.
And today, on Mother’s Day, I grasp for its comfort.
Mama, Philippians 1:3 truly applies to you. Thank you for making such a mark on this world for His Kingdom, through your teaching, in the lives of your children & the rest of your family.
However, I find myself often clinging to the one thing that isn’t altered. Ever. The healing hand of God.
That sweet hand!
Sometimes I can almost feel its warmth, its power, its gentleness.
And today, on Mother’s Day, I grasp for its comfort.
Mama, Philippians 1:3 truly applies to you. Thank you for making such a mark on this world for His Kingdom, through your teaching, in the lives of your children & the rest of your family.
Update 5/9/13
09. May 2013 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom, Update
Oh gracious, time is flying! Each day seems to go by so slowly and I’m sure each day lasts forever for Mom, yet we canNOT believe it’s May. What.on.earth.
Thank you again for all the thoughts, prayers, food, and hugs that have been sent our way We are blessed, indeed. It’s going to be absolutely 100% impossible to try to repay everyone for their kindness… Repayment feels obligatory, almost. However, we do know, understand and are grateful for this crazy thing called Grace. Our Lord has embraced us completely, drawn us near, and doesn’t require any repayment that good works could accomplish — grace.
It’s the same with our Christian community. Please know that we are humbled by you, grateful to you, and we thank you for your unconditional love where you don’t expect anything in return. We have been loved on by you and by our Lord!
I know Mom feels that, as well, a million times over.
With that being said I do pray fervently that what comes of Mom’s story, rather than a repayment of kindness, are ripples of love, laughter, and God’s goodness. There is purpose in her life and there is purpose in this trial and there will be purpose in her honor left behind.
God creates His plan around the fact that we can be eternally living with purpose.
Since the 18th of March, Mom has been bedridden and unable to communicate. She can still understand us and everything that’s going on around her. We’ve had really good days where we get to see Mom’s personality shine through brilliantly and we’ve had really really bad days. Our nurses have been helpful and very sweet. Dad and I, and now Zach home from school, are with Mom all the time; we never know what a day will hold.
“Home is where the heart is” — our little family’s hearts are certainly here in this house, with each other, crying out to our Lord, and enjoying each moment. Yet our Home is still yet to be seen by any of our earthly eyes… Amen for that.
Until the February hospital stay, we thought we had brain cancer beat. BOOM! But, a our mentalities have had to undergo a radical adjustment in the past 3 months. We pray that our family handles this with only the strength of the Lord, because we are too weak on our own.
In Him,
Thank you again for all the thoughts, prayers, food, and hugs that have been sent our way
It’s the same with our Christian community. Please know that we are humbled by you, grateful to you, and we thank you for your unconditional love where you don’t expect anything in return. We have been loved on by you and by our Lord!
I know Mom feels that, as well, a million times over.
With that being said I do pray fervently that what comes of Mom’s story, rather than a repayment of kindness, are ripples of love, laughter, and God’s goodness. There is purpose in her life and there is purpose in this trial and there will be purpose in her honor left behind.
God creates His plan around the fact that we can be eternally living with purpose.
Since the 18th of March, Mom has been bedridden and unable to communicate. She can still understand us and everything that’s going on around her. We’ve had really good days where we get to see Mom’s personality shine through brilliantly and we’ve had really really bad days. Our nurses have been helpful and very sweet. Dad and I, and now Zach home from school, are with Mom all the time; we never know what a day will hold.
“Home is where the heart is” — our little family’s hearts are certainly here in this house, with each other, crying out to our Lord, and enjoying each moment. Yet our Home is still yet to be seen by any of our earthly eyes… Amen for that.
Until the February hospital stay, we thought we had brain cancer beat. BOOM! But, a our mentalities have had to undergo a radical adjustment in the past 3 months. We pray that our family handles this with only the strength of the Lord, because we are too weak on our own.
In Him,
Update
31. March 2013 · 6 comments · Categories: Mom, Update
Tomorrow will be the two week marker of another downturn in Mom’s health. The 18th was yet another day of note in Judy’s Journey. And until now, I really just haven’t had the energy to write on this website about her decline.
Honestly, we didn’t expect her to be around but a couple of days — the fact that she is still here, two weeks later, proves what we knew all along — she is a tremendous fighter!! She has been that all her life. Mom is so strong and so unique. :)
The past two weeks have been a miracle, honestly. A little gift from God. The Lord has given us some more time. Praise Him!
These weeks have been hard…and it’s only going to get harder. But our God is carrying our family in His arms. And on this Easter Sunday, we are reminded that He has OVERCOME death already! In Christ, we have nothing to fear.
Amen.
Please continue to pray for Judy. I will keep this website updated. Thank you to those who have sent messages and written to us thoughts about your memories with Mom. Precious!
Please check back here for future plans.
Love.
Honestly, we didn’t expect her to be around but a couple of days — the fact that she is still here, two weeks later, proves what we knew all along — she is a tremendous fighter!! She has been that all her life. Mom is so strong and so unique. :)
The past two weeks have been a miracle, honestly. A little gift from God. The Lord has given us some more time. Praise Him!
These weeks have been hard…and it’s only going to get harder. But our God is carrying our family in His arms. And on this Easter Sunday, we are reminded that He has OVERCOME death already! In Christ, we have nothing to fear.
Amen.
Please continue to pray for Judy. I will keep this website updated. Thank you to those who have sent messages and written to us thoughts about your memories with Mom. Precious!
Please check back here for future plans.
Love.
Thoughts
20. March 2013 · 9 comments · Categories: Mom
We would love if everyone would comment on this post about their favorite/funniest/best memories of Judy!
Press On
12. March 2013 · 3 comments · Categories: Mom
Thank you to all those who are in continuous thoughts and prayers for us. I know so many of you are helplessly yearning to do more for our family – we so appreciate it. And honestly, at most times I think me, Dad and Zach feel just as helpless as all of you.
This is definitely a battle.
And God is definitely winning.
I, Aleisha, went to a brain tumor conference this past weekend and I was very blessed by the opportunity to go. I didn’t get any good news. I didn’t get any medical hope. But I learned so very much. On top of new strides and new technologies and the still-intangible dreams of brilliant doctors, a lot of what was discussed were things that our family has had to find out the hard way — through experience. It would have been nice to know so much of that ahead of time — but who wants to be prepared to have a brain tumor or have a family member with a brain tumor? That’s not a part of everyday preparedness.
Because of the fact that there is currently no cure for this awful disease (today might be the day!), and because still no one knows how anyone contracts brain cancer (it’s “a case of bad luck”), and because of the information gained from the conference, I could and did only conclude one thing — my God is the cure.
There is nothing medicine can currently do. But even if there was, I wouldn’t want to rely on it. Our full reliance is on our Lord. And honestly…it’s exciting! It’s a part of the journey as children of God to travel down paths of the unknown, to experience the adventure of a faith with no sight. Of a love with no boundaries. A plan we can’t comprehend.
it’s hard. It’s excruciating.
But it’s exciting.
And throughout that journey, God is the cure. To any situation — He’s the cure to a broken heart, a wounded ego, a crushed pride, a damaged relationship, He’s the cure to mangled planning, injured attempts, fractured thoughts, or scattered pieces of a soul.
There’s no way we can be prepared for any of that.
Just like there’s no way to be prepared for everything that comes along with brain cancer.
There’s only one thing to prepare for — living a life with and for our Lord, the almighty cure.
Press on towards that goal.
This is definitely a battle.
And God is definitely winning.
I, Aleisha, went to a brain tumor conference this past weekend and I was very blessed by the opportunity to go. I didn’t get any good news. I didn’t get any medical hope. But I learned so very much. On top of new strides and new technologies and the still-intangible dreams of brilliant doctors, a lot of what was discussed were things that our family has had to find out the hard way — through experience. It would have been nice to know so much of that ahead of time — but who wants to be prepared to have a brain tumor or have a family member with a brain tumor? That’s not a part of everyday preparedness.
Because of the fact that there is currently no cure for this awful disease (today might be the day!), and because still no one knows how anyone contracts brain cancer (it’s “a case of bad luck”), and because of the information gained from the conference, I could and did only conclude one thing — my God is the cure.
There is nothing medicine can currently do. But even if there was, I wouldn’t want to rely on it. Our full reliance is on our Lord. And honestly…it’s exciting! It’s a part of the journey as children of God to travel down paths of the unknown, to experience the adventure of a faith with no sight. Of a love with no boundaries. A plan we can’t comprehend.
it’s hard. It’s excruciating.
But it’s exciting.
And throughout that journey, God is the cure. To any situation — He’s the cure to a broken heart, a wounded ego, a crushed pride, a damaged relationship, He’s the cure to mangled planning, injured attempts, fractured thoughts, or scattered pieces of a soul.
There’s no way we can be prepared for any of that.
Just like there’s no way to be prepared for everything that comes along with brain cancer.
There’s only one thing to prepare for — living a life with and for our Lord, the almighty cure.
Press on towards that goal.
Courage
27. February 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom, Uncategorized
These are excellent thoughts for today from Kirk Weisler:
” ‘We tend to make courage too dramatic. Courage is often doing something simple, unpleasant, or boring again and again until we get it down pat. People who are physically challenged and who have the determination to get around their handicaps are great examples because their courage makes them test their limits every day.’ – Dave Thomas (1932-2002)
Isn’t that the truth – We have movies about courage that might lead us to believe that courage, real courage is the stuff of great drama and bullet facing heroics. But it is so much more than that.
Courage is going in for your first chemo-therapy treatment and then after getting absolutely sick from it…going back for your next.
Courage is sitting at the bed side of a sick child and praying for a miracle and for the faith and strength to let them go if that is required.
Courage is the person who gets up every morning rain or shine and goes running not because they love to run, but because they know they need to run.
Courage is saying no to desert at the resturaunt or walking by the cookie jar at home when no one is looking because you made a commitment to eat healthier and cut back on sugar.
Courage is telling your child no when you are tired and don’t want to have a battle of wills or perhap you just want them to think you are cool.
Courage is when you tell your family that we are having a “No Technology” day or weekend. That instead we are going to read, talk, walk, and play together.
Courage happens when we walk out of a movie, or turn one off at home because we just know that we don’t need to watch or listen to that kind of harsh or filthy imagery.
Courage is instead picking up a book to read quietly or gathering our family and reading together.
Courage is approaching a co-worker and apologizing for something you said recently that didn’t need to be said or could have been said with more tact.
Courage is making an effort to be less cynical and less sarcastic…when no one else is.
Courage is found in change and in making an effort to change who we are so we can stop just being, and start becoming more.
Courage and initiative are cousins… the person with courage takes it, and the person with initiative demonstrates courage everytime they do what is needed that no one else has was willing to do.
Courage is choosing what is best over what is convenient.
Courage is a choice….”
Thanks for the reminder, Kirk.
Today, I choose to be courageous. In quiet way. In a necessary situation. Because Mom has set an amazing example of the word.
And because my Lord made me to be so.
Today, I choose to be courageous. In quiet way. In a necessary situation. Because Mom has set an amazing example of the word.
And because my Lord made me to be so.
Hope
18. February 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
Romans 5:2-5
Romans 5:2-5
“…through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mark 5:35-36
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Psalm 71:14
“But I will hope continually and will praise you yet more and more.”
Amen.
Update 2/9/13
09. February 2013 · 8 comments · Categories: Mom, Update
Well.
It’s been a long 7 days.
For those of you who still may not know Mom’s status, I’ll fill you in a little bit. Sunday morning (2/3/13), we woke up and Mom couldn’t walk or talk. We took her to the ER and she was admitted to the hospital. She was in the hospital until Wednesday afternoon. The conclusion was that she has many smaller seizures throughout the night that led to stroke-like effects. Mom has lost most of her movement in her right side and her speech was greatly affected. The steroids given to decrease the swelling in the brain did not make any evident improvements. We were released from the hospital, on minimal medications, and we went home enrolled in Hospice Care. Unfortunately, the tumor has come back with such an aggressive vengeance that we are out of options for actually treating the cancer itself.
We thank you SO incredibly much for the current support and prayers and thoughts and food and cards. And we humbly thank you SO incredibly much for all of those same things the entire past 16 months. Wow. What a community of believers and what a God we serve!
Per a friend, Psalm 46:
“God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.
Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Come and see what the Lord has done,
the desolations he has brought on the earth.
He makes wars cease
to the ends of the earth.
He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the shields with fire.
He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.’
The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.”
It’s been a long 7 days.
For those of you who still may not know Mom’s status, I’ll fill you in a little bit. Sunday morning (2/3/13), we woke up and Mom couldn’t walk or talk. We took her to the ER and she was admitted to the hospital. She was in the hospital until Wednesday afternoon. The conclusion was that she has many smaller seizures throughout the night that led to stroke-like effects. Mom has lost most of her movement in her right side and her speech was greatly affected. The steroids given to decrease the swelling in the brain did not make any evident improvements. We were released from the hospital, on minimal medications, and we went home enrolled in Hospice Care. Unfortunately, the tumor has come back with such an aggressive vengeance that we are out of options for actually treating the cancer itself.
We thank you SO incredibly much for the current support and prayers and thoughts and food and cards. And we humbly thank you SO incredibly much for all of those same things the entire past 16 months. Wow. What a community of believers and what a God we serve!
We know that our Lord is working. He has been planning for eternity for these moments. He’s been preparing our family for years for this time. He has given our family a challenge. And all we can do is praise His name.
In the storm, we praise.
Please think of Judy and pray for her peace, and our family’s peace.Per a friend, Psalm 46:
“God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.
Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Come and see what the Lord has done,
the desolations he has brought on the earth.
He makes wars cease
to the ends of the earth.
He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the shields with fire.
He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.’
The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.”
From Judy
30. January 2013 · 3 comments · Categories: Mom
Straight from the mouth of Judy, these words are for our dear loved ones and supporters:
“We’ve needed you before and we need you again. Our hearts are connected to yours by God. His love for us is so so apparent. The power that is in your words and thoughts and smiles and notes…to me, it’s like I am experiencing God’s kisses. It is no wonderful to know that our brothers and sisters in Christ are surrounding..it’s just awesome.
We are not asking for anything more; we are just saying thank you.
I am just facing another challenge, and keep me in your prayers. Your prayer and God’s grace are what has gotten our family through this.”
Update 1/29/13
29. January 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom, Update
“Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most lethal subtype of glioma (classified as a World Health Organization Grade 4 infiltrative glioma) and is associated with a median survival of approximately 18 months. Responses to treatment are seen in less than 10% of patients with recurrent GBM, and the median progression-free survival is estimated at 9–10 weeks for patients with recurrent GBM.”
Scary.
Those are just some of the many statistics you can find when you start researching what Mom has. It makes me sick to my stomach reading it. I hate statistics. After all, “doctors are human, treatments vary from country to country, treatments are constantly changing, and every brain tumor is different.”
————————
It’s time for an update (and prayers!) — let me first sum up the generic progress of the past year with Mom and then I’ll update everyone on what we are facing now.Once we found out Mom had cancer, we went through brain surgery, radiation, and chemo — yet the cancer grew [rapidly]. Those things didn’t even seem to phase the glioblastoma. So we started something new. We tried Avastin — a different kind of drug…considered our “last resort” drug. We had several treatments of that and….it was working!! That drug, 100% more effective than any other treatment for us specifically, was getting rid of the cancer. Amen!
An amazing woman who has always adored life had hers extended.
Praises to our God, alone.
The cancer wasn’t completely gone, but we were more than hopeful — surrounded by faith, family, support and partnered with Avastin, we felt so blessed! A few months went by of dealing with strange, random, and continual side effects. There were a lot of challenges. And there was a lot of celebration, a lot of gratitude.
1/28/13 As a check up, we had an MRI to see the progress of the Avastin. Yesterday, the joy and the celebration was stifled when we found out the tumor is back in full-force. The past-progress made via the treatments was seemingly completely insignificant upon looking at the MRI. The cancer is smart — the cancer has adapted — the cancer is now immune. It’s recurrent GBM.
And we don’t have a plan of action.
We were told “weeks”…
The “last resort” medicine failure now seemingly leaves us empty-handed.
It’s a big pill to swallow.
What…do we do??
Please pray for Judy.
This has been another very unexpected and surprising slap in the face for our family.
And yet, we are not without hope. There is still celebration. There is still gratitude – thankfulness to the One who created us to love each other in the first place, to the One who is orchestrating such a beautiful and intricate plan.
Per my brother, we will not dwell in fear.
We will live and glorify our God with all the life that we have.
Judy will NOT be a statistic. She doesn’t belong in the group of words first mentioned in this post. No matter where this journey is continuing to take us, we’ll fight against the statistics and we fight for hope.
“God sets out to make you an unusual Christian He is not likely to be as gentle as He is usually pictured by the popular teachers. A sculptor does not use a manicure set to reduce the rude, unshapely marble to a thing of beauty. The saw, the hammer and the chisel are cruel tools, but without them the rough stone must remain forever formless and unbeautiful.”
Please
28. January 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
Needing prayers today.
Church Family
21. January 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
Mom talks all the time about how supportive our Central church has been this past year. We have all been so humbled by the constant thoughts, prayers, messages, cards and love given to our family.Back when we were contemplating other physical locations for treatments, Mom would say “….but my support system is in Amarillo” — and she was right. And that’s exactly where she needed to be. It’s incredible to look back on that part of the journey to how God knew what we needed, knew what would get Mom through this, and He provided.
Of course He did. He’s so good.
Thank you, Central Church of Christ for being such a light to Judy Newton and to the rest of the Newton family. You have astounded us with your meals and your outpouring of encouragement. It’s been overwhelming and so greatly needed. You are truly a blessing.
Words really aren’t enough to describe our immense gratitude.
And from Aleisha, personally — thank you for loving my mom the way you have.Words really aren’t enough to describe our immense gratitude.
Update
09. January 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom, Update
It’s been a while since I’ve actually given an update on how Mom is doing. It’s been an interesting few months.
To start — our family enjoyed the holidays together! It was wonderful to be able to spend time with each other and celebrate life.
On the other hand, Mom has had quite a few “bad” days recently where she just doesn’t feel good. We are dealing with side effects. With possible/probable progression of the disease. We still go regularly to the cancer center and our doctor is pretty much at a stand-still with our options. We are continuing treatments, but what is really helping? What is really hurting? What can we do?
We continually ask for your support. We continually ask for the Lord’s guidance. If we see a door open, we’ll take it. We continually pray for Mom to feel good so while we all celebrate life, she can actually enjoy the life breath that she’s been given.
Each day is a gift. Each day is a struggle.
Thank you again, for all the prayers lifted up on behalf of the Newtons! Please keep them coming. We still believe that our Healer is in control and that Judy has so much more to live for in her future!
To start — our family enjoyed the holidays together! It was wonderful to be able to spend time with each other and celebrate life.
On the other hand, Mom has had quite a few “bad” days recently where she just doesn’t feel good. We are dealing with side effects. With possible/probable progression of the disease. We still go regularly to the cancer center and our doctor is pretty much at a stand-still with our options. We are continuing treatments, but what is really helping? What is really hurting? What can we do?
We continually ask for your support. We continually ask for the Lord’s guidance. If we see a door open, we’ll take it. We continually pray for Mom to feel good so while we all celebrate life, she can actually enjoy the life breath that she’s been given.
Each day is a gift. Each day is a struggle.
Thank you again, for all the prayers lifted up on behalf of the Newtons! Please keep them coming. We still believe that our Healer is in control and that Judy has so much more to live for in her future!
For today
10. December 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Uncategorized
Today’s thought comes from Max Lucado:
Praise God that we do not belong to this imperfect world, yet we can still see the love of a perfect God through His grace.
“My friend, disease, calamity, and trouble populate your world. But they don’t control it! Grace does.”
I pray that the entire journey of Judy Newton & of our family has been and will always be led by grace. Grace in pain, grace in the unknown, grace in terror, grace in hope…Praise God that we do not belong to this imperfect world, yet we can still see the love of a perfect God through His grace.
Be in peace today.
What’s in a name?
05. November 2012 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom, Uncategorized
Yesterday I was thinking about how this journey had been exactly 13 months thus far. Then I begin thinking about how much time we were given at the diagnosis of this. Then I started thinking about how much time we really have left…no one knows… Part of that feeling is peaceful and I’m thankful for the healing we’ve so far experienced; yet part of that unknown feeling is terrifying. With something this serious, we really don’t know how much longer we have. Brain. Cancer.
Today God spoke to me through the radio. The subject of the DJ’s convo? The name of Jesus.
Now, this isn’t a new topic by any means. Hundreds of preachers have focused in on this, dozens of Bible verses are to be found (look at Philippians 2:9-10 & Acts 4:12 for starters), many songs are sung about it, millions of people have proclaimed that name… But something was different for me today.
The name of Jesus is greater than cancer.
^ Now that is some good stuff right there. ^
I know of many people who have gone through or have loved ones going through cancer — all types: breast, lung, liver, kidney, bladder, you name it. Yet no matter what types of cancer we can name, His name overpowers them all. In death and in life, through brain cancer or not, the name of Jesus boasts the ultimate plan for our lives and for His purpose. Are you Living With Purpose? If you bear His name, then indeed you are.
So, I ask. Q: What’s in a name? A: A whole lot.
Today God spoke to me through the radio. The subject of the DJ’s convo? The name of Jesus.
Now, this isn’t a new topic by any means. Hundreds of preachers have focused in on this, dozens of Bible verses are to be found (look at Philippians 2:9-10 & Acts 4:12 for starters), many songs are sung about it, millions of people have proclaimed that name… But something was different for me today.
The name of Jesus is powerful. His name is unique and special. His name is great.
The name of Jesus is above any other.
But! What was different for me today is that the name of Jesus is not just above any other name…it’s above any other ANYTHING. It’s above all earthly rules and regulations, all natural disasters, all passions in life, all earthly relationships, all powers of this world, all magnitudes of emotion, all real or potential diseases, all thoughts; it’s above every single historical event, each individual’s minuscule action in the future, all human creations; it’s above anything that’s pleasing and thank goodness, it’s above everything that’s terrifying.The name of Jesus is greater than cancer.
^ Now that is some good stuff right there. ^
I know of many people who have gone through or have loved ones going through cancer — all types: breast, lung, liver, kidney, bladder, you name it. Yet no matter what types of cancer we can name, His name overpowers them all. In death and in life, through brain cancer or not, the name of Jesus boasts the ultimate plan for our lives and for His purpose. Are you Living With Purpose? If you bear His name, then indeed you are.
So, I ask. Q: What’s in a name? A: A whole lot.
One year
04. October 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
Well, it’s been ONE YEAR to the day that this ordeal began for our family. Crazy! What a year it’s been! Actually, none of us can believe it’s really been that long….it seems like just last week we in the midst of radiation treatments.
Yet time flies by… and our Lord has been been faithful. Faithful in who He is, in how He loves, and in what He promises. He has never promised anyone healing or freedom or a life without tears. He has promised us that His plan will prevail.
I still don’t think we know what His plan is through Mom’s brain cancer. I still think we are a little in the dark on that. We still ask questions. Yet, we still and will always know that all things, including deadly tumors, work together for His good. Amen to that. I cannot think of greater sacrifices, bigger heartaches in life, or better obstacles than those that the Lord uses for His glory….
For me, I had never fully understood the depths of all of that ^ until this past year. I’ve had challenges in life and certainly many mountaintop experiences….but all of that ^ is the composition of a hard lesson to learn. I daresay that it’s a lesson one can only learn by personal experience…the intimacy of His plan is entirely different when you are living in the valley.
And it’s uncomfortable.
Good gracious, was this past year uncomfortable! It was new, it was terrifying, it was crazy, it was scary, it was overwhelming..did I mention it was frightening?…and it was uncomfortable.
Yet time flies by… and our Lord has been been faithful. Faithful in who He is, in how He loves, and in what He promises. He has never promised anyone healing or freedom or a life without tears. He has promised us that His plan will prevail.
I still don’t think we know what His plan is through Mom’s brain cancer. I still think we are a little in the dark on that. We still ask questions. Yet, we still and will always know that all things, including deadly tumors, work together for His good. Amen to that. I cannot think of greater sacrifices, bigger heartaches in life, or better obstacles than those that the Lord uses for His glory….
For me, I had never fully understood the depths of all of that ^ until this past year. I’ve had challenges in life and certainly many mountaintop experiences….but all of that ^ is the composition of a hard lesson to learn. I daresay that it’s a lesson one can only learn by personal experience…the intimacy of His plan is entirely different when you are living in the valley.
And it’s uncomfortable.
Good gracious, was this past year uncomfortable! It was new, it was terrifying, it was crazy, it was scary, it was overwhelming..did I mention it was frightening?…and it was uncomfortable.
Yet God works wonders through the uncomfortableness of His children.
That’s when His best work is seen! That’s when He shines. That’s when we grow. That’s when we change…and that’s when His unchanging ways are encountered.
That’s when His best work is seen! That’s when He shines. That’s when we grow. That’s when we change…and that’s when His unchanging ways are encountered.
As you know from my last update, things are looking better for mom! We are seeing improvement and we certainly have hope. We might have to go through this again, stage 4 aggressiveness is an ever-present threat, but maybe more research will have surfaced by then. Who knows… But we know that we are blessed, indeed!
And yet….just because I see a brighter light with Mom’s physical heath and future, I don’t want to return to comfortableness. That’s right. You heard me.
I want to remind challenged with every single new day, terrified of being complacent, and overwhelmed with desire for the Lord.
I feel like Ezekiel 36:26 (I like the New Living Translation of this particular verse; look it up!). And I don’t ever want to give back my new heart.
I want to remind challenged with every single new day, terrified of being complacent, and overwhelmed with desire for the Lord.
I feel like Ezekiel 36:26 (I like the New Living Translation of this particular verse; look it up!). And I don’t ever want to give back my new heart.
God, thank you for Mom’s brain cancer and all you have done through it this past year.
Our God is good
20. September 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom, Update
Thank you, thank you all for your continued thoughts and prayers. My family hears often from different people in different areas of life that the Newtons are being up in prayer. How good that is; how good He is.ONLY because of your prayers and your support and your trust in God as a Christian community do we have some good news to share with you! Our God is healing Mom. He is using this new medicine as His tool to continue His plan of keeping Judy on this earth longer for His purpose. (YAY!!!) We had a recent MRI that has showed, again, a decrease in the size and spread of the cancer cells. Praise Him!
Our family is continually dealing with all the other things that come with this type situation…side effects of the medicine, monitoring & controlling, finances, what to do next, speech, etc. And this type of cancer, if even depleted for a time, has a proven history of always coming back in the future and coming back even more aggressively than the first time around. But — we will not fear the future! Our good God is not one who encompasses that emotion. Rather, we will continue to trust, to obey, to rejoice, to cherish, to take care of Judy, and to love. And to appreciate our Christian family!
We are not out of the woods yet and the journey still continues, but we wanted to share with you in our rejoicing!!
When things are bleak, how much more bleak would they be withOUT our Lord? When things are dark, we still have HOPE because our God is still good. No matter what the circumstances…no matter the outcome…no matter the situation, our God is good. So so good.
Amen!
Story
16. September 2012 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
THIS is a quick story of how Mom continues to affect lives.
Quick update
21. August 2012 · 2 comments · Categories: Mom, Update
I apologize for not writing on here sooner. Our family has still been receiving an outpouring of love, prayers, and questions about how Mom is doing the past couple of months. Wow — we so appreciate you all.
Currently, things are going pretty smoothly and we’ll have a chance to see how the “new medicine” is working in about a month. Since we’ve been on (and off of) this medicine, we’ve mostly been dealing with side effects because of it’s strength…headaches, potential blood clotting, long-lasting pains, no improvement or worsening of speech/memory. There are some other weird things as well, but really we are just praising God that it’s not yet Mom’s time for her to be with Him!
Amen and thank you, Lord. (You know I’m not ready to start living without her!)
As we continue on this journey, we look up to our Maker and Healer. And we look side to side to watch for the side effects of His strength.
Currently, things are going pretty smoothly and we’ll have a chance to see how the “new medicine” is working in about a month. Since we’ve been on (and off of) this medicine, we’ve mostly been dealing with side effects because of it’s strength…headaches, potential blood clotting, long-lasting pains, no improvement or worsening of speech/memory. There are some other weird things as well, but really we are just praising God that it’s not yet Mom’s time for her to be with Him!
Amen and thank you, Lord. (You know I’m not ready to start living without her!)
As we continue on this journey, we look up to our Maker and Healer. And we look side to side to watch for the side effects of His strength.
Hope
06. July 2012 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
We are reminded daily that life is precious, love is abundant, and hope is always present. However, most of the time we don’t just pay attention to those reminders. We often miss them.
One of the wonders of earthy trials that we all face, is that they give us the opportunity to slow down and pay attention. They give us the chance to not miss out. They give us the abilbity to ignite the fire of HOPE in our souls.
Thank you, Lord, for the valleys.
I pray that we do not miss the love found in every day life, the peace of knowing Him, the joy of family.
And I pray for Mom’s healing.
I pray for hope for her, for our family, for the future, and for all those who Mom’s story can reach.
I pray that our HOPE is strengthened through each other — yet found in Christ alone.
And I pray for Mom’s healing.
I pray for hope for her, for our family, for the future, and for all those who Mom’s story can reach.
I pray that our HOPE is strengthened through each other — yet found in Christ alone.
Update!
05. June 2012 · 3 comments · Categories: Mom, Update
Then Moses said to God, “If I come to the people of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ what shall I say to them?” God said to Moses, “I AM who I AM.” And he said, “Say this to the people of Israel, I AM has sent me to you.’” God also said to Moses, “Say this to the people of Israel, ‘The Lord, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.’ This is my name forever, and thus I am to be remembered throughout all generations.
We saw the results of Mom’s MRI today. Needless to say, it was a nerve-racking morning and I think our whole family was bracing for the worst because we’ve had so much of “the worst” these past many months. A slight glimmer of hope here or an encouraging plan there…but truly no good news from any medical experts we’ve consulted with along this journey.
Thank goodness we don’t only depend on the hands of these earthly medical experts; they can only go so far.
The Great Healer has shown Himself in a much different way than we have been used to since this ordeal began. All along, The Great Healer has certainly been involved, working, loving, planning and guiding us….and wow, have we grown because of that. Because of His steadfastness, we have changed. Because of His faithfulness, we have been allowed to stretch our own faith.
And because He is the I AM, we have been allowed to be..for just a little bit longer.
Mom’s MRI showed cancer cell reduction.
Ahhhhh…take a moment and soak. that. in. !!!!
The “new” treatment we’ve been on for a couple of months is apparently doing beneficial things — much more so than either/both radiation and chemo. Granted, the cancer is NOT gone; it’s just reduced. We are still in a battle. We are still in a life struggle. We still have a long ways to go. And we still need to be lifted up.
But I AM has heard all our prayers and all your many many prayers through now, just as He heard the Israelites’, and let’s let Him hear our celebration of praise now!! Hallelujah!
We are grateful. Thank you to our doctors — truly. Thank you from Mom herself to all of you — she wants everyone to know how much her gratitude is for your constant prayers and support…and she sends each one of you a BIG HUG! And thank you to our Lord, our Great Healer, our I AM.
Changes
01. June 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom, Update
The winds of change are a’blowin!
As of October 4th, 2011, we had this unwanted change enter our lives. However, it’s incredible to see what the permanent consequences of the change are. To reflect on those. To hold those close.
Our situation has taught me that each day is precious. Each day is not to be taken for granted — not only in regards to the people in your life, the loved ones that make up your world or the community surrounding you…but also in the fact that each day has sparkle. Each day has sunshine. Each day has peace and each day holds promises. Whether or not we find those things daily is up to us.
Our situation has reinforced that God has an ultimate plan — this is something I’ve always known, but to experience being in the midst of His active working is entirely different and so very humbling.
Our situation has reminded me how to look for God in the smallest things. He always shows up at the perfect moment to remind us how He loves us. How He loves.
Our situation has showed our whole family how blessed we truly are and our gratitude changes every single day — it grows. I see no end in sight.
Our situation has energized mom to give her cares up to the One who controls them and to truly internalize a focus on the Lord.
“Growing happens when what you know changes how you live…”
Feel free to comment on this post to share anything you’ve learned!
While we are on the subject of change, there aren’t many recent changes in Mom’s condition. She’s physically felt pretty good lately, which is wonderful. She’s still fighting hard and loving others. She goes for an MRI today — we are praying that we’ll have a much less colorful hodgepodge of ‘stuff’ show up on the scan… :)
No title
26. May 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
“Everything that happens, including the things you cannot explain or justify, is being woven together like an enormous, beautiful piece of tapestry. From this earthly side it seems blurred and knotted, strange and twisted. But from heaven’s perspective it forms an incredible picture. Best of all, it is for His greater glory. Right now, it seems so confusing, but someday the details will come together and make good sense.”
~Charles Swindoll~
Team Judy!
18. May 2012 · 4 comments · Categories: Mom
Mom’s fightin’! We’re believin’! God’s lovin’!
Comfort Zone
07. May 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
Thank you again to all who have asked how our family is doing and/or encouraged us recently. We so appreciate you.
To say the least, we [the Newton family] have been definitely out of our comfort zone these past 7 months! This is a situation I would wish upon no one, ever. Yet this has stretched us in so many ways — as a family, as a community, personally…. and more than anything it’s made my neck hurt.
Aleisha, your neck?
Yes, that’s right. Mom’s glioblastoma has made my neck hurt — but it’s not empathy pains. These past 7 months I’ve had to look up helplessly and often desperately to the only One who can control the situation and then I’ve had to look down in humble prayer to that same One. It’s like a roller coaster effect.
It’s funny — I think God wants us to have the roller coaster effect. Granted, I don’t think He wants us all to have hurting necks. :) But I think He does long for us to look up and down in life. He wants us to live outside our own comfort zone of looking straight ahead, where we focus on what we can see. Rather, change it up. Stretch. Do something uncomfortable. Try living life by only looking up and down…
This roller coaster ride has been a crazy one for me lately and I’m still a “newbie”. I catch myself looking dead straight ahead FAR more often than not, but it takes practice. A lifetime of practice, I have no doubt. But our Lord who is unpredictable, uncomfortabl
Blooming!
28. March 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
Take a look at a couple of blooming tulips from Tulips Against Tumors day –planted in October! Click HERE
Romans 5:3-5 (I like the ESV version)
The fight
27. March 2012 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
It’s been a while since I’ve written on this precious site.
Obviously, things have still been going on with our family in the past month-ish. I haven’t had the time/energy to write on here. Or perhaps even more relevant to the lack of updates is that sometimes I feels like if I ignore reality, it will in go away. But of course reality always resurfaces–sooner than later.
And so when I’m pulled back into real consciousness, the only thing to do and the one thing I must do is pick up the cross and follow Him.
The comforting thing about our journey–rather, the amazing thing about our journey–is the fact that God never does have a reality check, like I experience. No, He doesn’t. His battle is ongoing and He never lets go of us, of the world, for a single second! He’s in constant control. He’s leading the war for our hearts and…we have already won. Standing on His side, the battle is over. Reality is in the arms of our Creator. Because of that we can let go– give up ourselves, struggles, pains, laughter –and let Him fully have those things without taking them back.
My own humanized reality checks are oftentimes just me trying to take back the control that I don’t really have to begin with.
~~~
We’ve had a roller coaster the past month! Mom has been doing well and she continues to inspire others. On the phone just a couple of days ago, I got some more mommy-advice that I cherish so dearly: “Aleisha, smile and it will make others feel better! And that in turn will make your heart feel better. Smile!”
So while smiling, Mom fights.
We fight together, as a team — my family, and then our Christian community.
We fight against a disease.
Mom is fighting hard and courageously.
But God’s fighting too.
Glory be to Him who’s already won.
God’s Hands
25. March 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
“Nothing touches us without being sifted through the hands of God.” Author unknownHe is our helper and source of strength!
Lanny
Waiting upon the Lord
18. February 2012 · 5 comments · Categories: Mom
As we sat in the doctor’s office at M D Anderson looking at the latest MRI scan compared to the earlier, my heart deflated. Why had the tumor areas not gone away or at least decreased in size. “Why, why” began to run through my mind. We’ve prayed earnestly for Judy’s healing – our church has prayed , our church elders have prayed, our ministers have prayed, our friends and family have prayed for Judy’s healing. Later has the three of us talked of what we saw, Aleisha had wise insight: “If the tumor areas had shrunk or gone away, then the doctors and the treatments would have received the glory for Judy’s healing, not God. God desires the glory, not man, and He will move in His time so that all will know it is the power of God.” Such great spiritual wisdom on Aleisha’s part. She is right! To God and God alone belongs the glory!
A couple of days later, I was reading in Isaiah 55:8 – 9 – “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than you ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” We trust God’s ways and thoughts as we wait upon the Lord. Blessed be the name of the Lord!
A couple of days later, I was reading in Isaiah 55:8 – 9 – “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than you ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” We trust God’s ways and thoughts as we wait upon the Lord. Blessed be the name of the Lord!
Lanny
Yes please
14. February 2012 · 2 comments · Categories: Mom, Uncategorized
As we continue to monitor, continue to pray, continue to wonder, and continue to cherish our time, we look around to the community surrounding us and we praise God.
He is good, He is mighty, and we desire to be controlled by His life and His peace.
Update #14
01. February 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom, Update
We are back from our Houston trip. ”Thank you” is not enough to express our gratitude to those of you who we know were on your knees praying for our family the past few days. We are so blessed by your love.
The results of our MD Anderson visit were not what we were hoping or wanting to hear. There has certainly been disappointment in the midst of living out our Lord’s plan. In the nutshell, the MRI showed to be worse (not better or smaller tumors) than when we first started all this in October. That in itself, and seeing the scans, was shocking. The glimmer of hope in this, however, is that the doctor could not say with 100% certainty that the tumor/cancer cells had grown–although that is a valid explanation, the MRI results could have also showed inflammation/swelling or other side effects still lingering in the brain from the 6 weeks of radiation. Or, it could be a mixture of those two things.
Additionally, there are no brand new lesions that have appeared anywhere else in the brain. Another positive note.
There are a few “next steps” we have to work on now…more regular tests and tracking, decisions to be made about future chemo…prayer.
So, please pray for us going forward and pray for Mom to feel well.
We are called to be constantly faithful and we certainly will continue to praise our good good God. As I mentioned, this was not what we were wanting to get from the trip, but we are at peace. It’s not an easy situation by any means, but we have a peace that truly passes all our human understanding.
Plus, we were blessed with togetherness and time.
You may see some websites under “Research” [link removed] and these vaccines were not embraced by our MD Anderson doctor, for multiple reasons.
Also, take a look at new pictures of people wearing Tshirts and supporting Team Judy! [link removed] Doesn’t everyone look great?!
Thank you again.
The Lord is blessing us and keeping us, all of us!, under His wing and in His embrace.
There’s no better place to be.
Update #13
29. January 2012 · 4 comments · Categories: Mom, Update
If you all could say an extra prayer on Mom’s behalf during the next couple of days, our family would greatly appreciate it!
We will let you know what we find out after tests and consultations in Houston this week.
May we praise the Lord with every ounce of our souls, daily.
In Him and because of Him,
Aleisha
Thoughts
20. January 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Uncategorized
Dear Lord, we need you.
Daily.
Guide us, direct us, lead us to the challenges you wish us to face.
With You, we can overcome.
Because of You, we overcame.
Every day, we need You to come to us over and over and over…
…and hold us so tightly that our only option is to give way to your steadfastness.
Blessed
14. January 2012 · 2 comments · Categories: Uncategorized
We are.
Encouragement
10. January 2012 · 1 comment · Categories: Uncategorized
As we live out our daily journeys, may we remember who we are. In whatever storm or season of life we are in, we still have a reason to bless and a responsibility to shine on.
I hope this, below, will bless your day as it has mine!
Update #12
06. January 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom, Update
Good morning!
Well, we found out yesterday afternoon that our appointment in Houston is postponed. Thank you all for the prayers thus far!
Both the doctors in Amarillo as well as the doctor in Houston agree that it would be best to wait another couple of weeks so we can finish up the radiation, get a stable blood count, and give the treatments another couple of weeks to work before doing all the needed tests.
So. Not a cancellation, but just a postponement until the end of the month! Thank you for being with our family on this journey.
Prayer Request
02. January 2012 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom, Update
In 7 days, we will once again travel to Houston. We will be there for 2 days with tests and consultation followed by decisions. I ask that you shower our family in your prayers this coming week, but particularly on January 9th and January 10th when we will be there.
We feel the Lord’s power through prayers every day…but I’m humbly asking for a canopy of healing petitions during these 2 days that will decide so much of our future!
Thank you all. We truly love you with the love of the Lord. And that love is a mighty thing!
Peace
31. December 2011 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
The holidays are wonderful! Family, food, laughter, games, memories…these are special times indeed. And it’s because of these amazing distractions that I tend to forget reality.
However, I am quickly brought back and focus once more on the current situation. It’s a harsh wake-up call.
But the incredible thing that comes along with being “brought back down to Earth” is the peace that quickly follows panic’s grasp. For we are not held by the grip of panic or fear itself–true, we wrestle with these things–but rather we are in the embrace of our Lord’s hands. He’s holding us…and not letting go.
And with that knowledge and within the place of rest, comes peace. A truly unexplainable peace.
Peace on Earth.
Sent from Heaven.
So in the midst of the good and the bad, the daily journey and the memories made, God does not leave us when we are brought back down to Earth…He sends a piece/peace of Heaven with us. To reminds us whose hands we are in.
And for that, Father, I thank you. I don’t know where I would be without You or your gifts…of love, sacrifice, and peace on Earth. I know that what You bequest upon us now is only a glimpse of what You have waiting for us in our future dwelling. May we praise your name as we embrace our daily wake-up calls and open our eyes to your glory.
Merry Christmas…
24. December 2011 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
…from the Newtons!
‘Tis the season
19. December 2011 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
This is the season to be thankful and to be around those we love so dearly! However, I’m not talking about the holidays or Christmas time… This is the season of our lives to hold each other dear and literally count. each. blessing.
And what a blessing to be apart of a journey.
What a blessing to be a part of Judy’s Journey…but! what a blessing to be apart of our Lord’s journey.
His story.
We are daily living out a part, a role in the ultimate story of the great Creator.
And in that chronicle, He has already saved our lives. May we be ever thankful for that. And may that fact be life changing…journey-altering. His blessing can be lived out in this season–the season of our lives.
Thank you for your spiritual healing, Father, and may you continue to manifest physical healing as it is written in your story.
Doing one thing
18. December 2011 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
“Living by faith
in Jesus above.
Trusting, confiding
in His great love.
From all harm safe
in His sheltering arms,
I’m living by faith
and feel no alarm.”
Update #11
11. December 2011 · 3 comments · Categories: Mom, Update
Well, we are still in the middle of a daily journey and a family-strengthening time. Each day is new; each prayer is heartfelt; each meal is appreciated. Of course, there are the great days and there are the very hard days. However, we are learning to be completely dependent on our Lord because that’s all we can do–but thankfully, that’s all He asks us to do.
Mom is doing as well. We head back down to MD Anderson in mid-January. (I will go this time, as I was not able to go to Houston the first time around.) Please pray for this upcoming trip, our spirits, our peace, and please pray for the healing that we all wish to have prominent when we see test results.
Thank you, all!
Fasting thoughts
05. December 2011 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
Take time to realize…
Thank you to all who participated in fasting last week! I know that it’s certainly out-of-the-ordinary, but from some of the feedback I’ve received I think it was very beneficial. Below are thoughts from a couple of people who fasted:
- “Every time I stopped for a moment to pray, the words that came were always, ‘thank you for the miracle of healing you are working in Judy at this moment.” At the end of the day I realized that I fully ‘expect a healing”. I feel covered with a sense of peace and have a full expectation of God doing exactly that.
I know that this unexpected adventure in life with God has many facets all of which leave us with great AWE!, unimaginable emotion, and total dependence on the FATHER. Keep your eyes on the Lord, this is both the ‘storm’ and the ‘walking on water” part of life in Christ and HIS LIFE IN US.”
- ”For one who rarely misses a meal, I found a day of prayer and fasting to be less difficult than I had previously believed. It gave more purpose to the day…a day to plead with our Father on behalf of Judy…a day to submit my will to His…a day of expectation for healing and comfort…a day to realize that we serve the God who is Lord over impossibilities…a day to readjust my priorities of ‘whatever you do in word or deed’, do it to His glory. Oh how our lives need to be simplified! I was reminded of Jesus’ statement to His disciples in John 4 ‘My food is to do the will of the One who sent Me…’ May God give me the strength, commitment and devotion to the ‘Great Healer’ who can and will give Judy healing.”
- “I have never purposefully fasted before and the experience was interesting…it’s actually quite amazing how much time, energy, and thought we put in to FOOD. Yes, it’s essential to our health and our being but–maybe it’s just me–it’s takes up a lot of my daily brain power that I never realized before! So, instead of snacking and every time I even thought about a snack, I prayed. I prayed for Judy. For her family. For healing.
It’s wondrous to have your thoughts purposefully turned to prayer all throughout the day. As I sat during my lunch hour and reflected by the lake rather than eating, several thoughts came to mind. I watched the ducks on the lake in their multitudes, in their natural habitat, in their mode of living…yet the ducks do not belong to the lake. The lake is their temporary dwelling. Their setting, for a moment of rest. The ducks belong somewhere else…they belong to the sky.
What an amazing feeling to know that you have a temporary home, a place or rest, but that you belong somewhere much more suited for you!
The ducks were made for the air yet they cannot get to their place of belonging on their own. They need the wind. Yes, even the West Texas wind…ducks need that wind to lift their wings. The wind is constant and ever-present and ducks are created to depend on the wind to guide them to their ultimate purpose—flight.
We are just like ducks! :) We need community. We have a temporary home. And praise the Lord, we have to depend on Him and His consistency to get us to the place that we are perfectly suited for! May He bless our journey as we prepare for flight.
Matthew 26:42. Romans 8:18“
Thank you again for taking the time to sit back and just BE with our Lord…for taking time to realize His ultimate plan and our ultimate purpose…for taking time to listen…for taking time to send up the pleas of your heart…and thank you to all of you for being such an encouragement to our family!
Fasting
27. November 2011 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
The week for fasting is upon us!
As a reminder, please choose a day sometime this week to set aside to fast and pray. Fasting allows us to draw closer to God because our focus is fully upon Him. “As we decrease, His Spirit increases.”
So let His Spirit increase within us all this week. Please pray for Judy and her healing. And let us purposefully draw nearer to the Lord and see what can be revealed through this time!
Thank you to all!
For all those who know me well, you know I am a person of to-do lists and calendars. Quite often, if anything is going to be accomplished in my life, it needs to go on one or both of these. I justify this personal quirk by saying that in conscientiously writing things down, I formally portray my intent of action–this way, it’s much harder to NOT act upon said things. :) Basically I’m holding myself accountable.
In the same way, I now proclaim intent with this: I will be fasting this Wednesday the 30th of November. And now, I have my Christian community to hold me accountable as well! So grateful for that. Thank you all, and look forward to hearing from you.
–Aleisha
–Aleisha
Update #10
24. November 2011 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom, Update
Mom has being doing treatments (radiation on weekdays, chemo everyday) for almost a week now. Although we are taking one day at a time, things have been going well so far! Mom is handling the mask she must wear, her hair is still short and cute , and no drastic side effects from treatments have occurred thus far. We are so enjoying time together–all of us focusing on joyous attitudes and uplifting spirits. One day at a time….
Blunt doctors can give us all the educational information that they want and it’s true that we do not know what the future holds for our family—but ultimately God is in absolute control. All we can do is take control over our own actions in the meantime. These known song lyrics state:
“Your will above all else
my purpose remains.The art of losing myself
in bringing you praise.”
The actions our family is taking right now really is an art…a difficult, purposeful persistance in making ourselves less and our God greater. Because of this, Judy’s Journey is not only a literal fight for a life, but it’s also a fight to allow God to make a difference. Only in letting go of ourselves, our plans, and our desires can He work through the situation to add value to His kingdom and express His love to His people.
We lose ourselves because of His will and also for His will.
Thank you, again, to all those who are currently blessing our lives! You are the body of Christ on earth and are showing just what community is truly about. We certainly need you and are ever grateful!
Seeing God #3
20. November 2011 · 2 comments · Categories: Mom
As we are gripping the realities of this situation, I am reminded of our Father daily through my parents. Man. What examples I have–Zach and I could not be more blessed.
I see God in their strength, their spirits, in Mom’s desire to encourage others and give back to others in her own time of need, in Dad’s words of wisdom; I see God in their laughter, in their prioritization of what’s important in life and subsequently their focus on those things; I see God in Mom’s resolve of “It’s the Lord’s will, so I will do it” and in her humble reminder to me “Aleisha, thank God for all of our blessings, ok?”…….I could go on.
This has certainly been and will continue to be one of the hardest things my family has ever had to go through. Even though we have certainly had and will continue to have our share of tears, frustrations, fears, anger, worry, and stress, “courage is fear overcome by faith“…and faith is all our family has to rely on. God, His ways unknown, is the only one we have to trust in.
And that reliance, that trust, is more than evident through the lives of my parents right now.
Anyone reading this post who already know my parents are probably not surprised by anything I’ve mentioned thus far–this is how my parents have always lived their lives.
“This moment is critical in Who we choose to follow”
My parents chose Who to follow years ago.
And now, in the critical moment, I am so thankful for their choice.
All this being said, it inevitably leads to the question that’s asked so many times in so many ways…why do bad things happen to such good people? It really is a good question. However, in the words of my dad, it’s nothing we have done or haven’t done–our situation is the result of living in a fallen world….it’s the consequence of being in a universe where such a spiritual battle rages.
And yet, those things beyond our control do not give us excuses.
Rather, being in a fallen world where every day’s setting is a battlefield presents a challenge to us–a challenge we must RISE UP to.It’s a challenge to live for the glory of God with all that we are.
And thank you to my parents for doing so.
For showing God’s glory in all that you are.
For showing God’s glory in all that you are.
Thank you.
Update #9
18. November 2011 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom, Update
Mom DID finally start treatments yesterday (11/17/11)!!
Thank goodness Radiation and chemo at the same time. Things are going well so far…. Keep praying–and pray for healing, not just for the radiation to reduce the cancer cells but for Mom’s body to be relieved of all things attacking it.
The Lord doesn’t expect us to understand….yet He expects us to trust.
Events #2
16. November 2011 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
Update and reminder:
1. Tshirts! Team Judy tshirts are COMING!!
Wow, thank you to all the responses so far of people who are wanting tshirts! My mother is so loved and we are so grateful. Although the tshirt enterprise started out as just a side note and an offline comment by myself with the sole intention of “wearing support” for my mom, it has grown a bit. :) Anyone is more than welcome to buy a shirt if they want one! They are $15 a piece and I should have the first round available by Thanksgiving (and can thus pass out shirts at Central on Sunday the 27th). Please just let me know what size(s) you want!
Although the tshirts will most certainly aid in the financial expenses of my family, the real purpose of this is to physically show our support for Judy and be reminded of community, faith, strength, and the journey of all of us as we continue following the Lord in this realm. Thank you, all!
2. Mark your calendars for the week of 11/27/11.
Just a reminder about the upcoming: we would graciously ask that you set aside ONE day during this week (11/27/11 — 12/3/11) for fasting. Please pick a day that is best for you and works with your own individual schedules. Set aside this day to fast and pray…spend time with our Lord, and offer up prayers on behalf of Judy and whatever else is on your heart. The Lord can work in great ways when we give Him undivided attention. If you are willing, please share with me the results of your fasting and how God is speaking to us in our world. Thank you!
Update #8
13. November 2011 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom, Update
UPDATE 11/15/11:
Treatments do NOT start today after all. They are still working on the plan. It’s taking longer than expected. Hopefully tomorrow we will begin? I feel the sense of urgency to move fast on this…it’s time sensitive! So please pray they can finish up, Mom can start treatments, and that they meticulously planned everything correctly.
Thank you!
______________________________
11/13/11:
Mom should start treatments this Tuesday, the 15th. (Radiation and chemo together)
Her spirits have been up these past few days and we were all encouraged today…”Now to Him who is able to do..immeasurably more…than all we ask or imagine!” Amen.
Events — Tshirts and Fasting
11. November 2011 · 12 comments · Categories: Mom
Two things:
1. Tshirts! Team Judy tshirts are COMING!!! If you’ll respond to this post or shoot me an email and let me know if you’d like to order one (or some) and how many you’d like to order, that will help me in getting a quote to the company. This is not a fundraiser–just getting tshirts made for our family and anyone else who would like to wear one in support!
2. Mark your calendars for the week of 11/27/11. We would graciously ask that you set aside ONE day during this week (11/27/11 — 12/3/11) for fasting. Please pick a day that is best for you and works with your own individual schedules. Set aside this day to fast and pray..spend time with our Lord, and offer up prayers on behalf of Judy.
There are several reasons for fasting and thoughts and verses regarding the act:
“Fasting requires self-control and discipline as one denies the natural desires of the flesh. During spiritual fasting, the believer’s focus is removed from the physical things of this world and intensely concentrated on God. Put differently, fasting directs our hunger toward God.”
Acts 14:23
Daniel 9:3
Psalm 35:13
Acts 13:3
I would ask that you use your specific day–during the week starting on the 27th–and fast for your own reasons, fast for Judy and if you are willing, please share the results of your fasting.
I thank you in advance for your participation! Let’s speak to God that week and be spoken to!SUTC
10. November 2011 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
Stand Up To Cancer. (Standup2cancer.org)
“We stand up for the end of cancer.
Tell the world who you stand up for.”
Seeing God #2
10. November 2011 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
God has been uplifting recently. He has provided us with the right people at the right time. And He’s shown Himself–I’ve seen God in kindness, concern, messages, prayers and so much more. These are ripples being created.
God sights and ripples.
Though I feel like God is FAR from finished with this story, our journey, or His will, a couple of examples of sights and ripples are listed below:
God is definitely teaching us–especially me–that it’s okay to have help. It’s okay to let others assist you. In much the same way that I love on other people by giving to them and doing things for them, I MUST let other people love on ME by allowing them to do things for me! Yes. I’m learning, slowly but surely. God’s teaching me that. Teaching our family that. So in light of the lesson I’m being taught, let us be loved!
A story came up a couple of weeks ago that’s very similar to Mom’s, about a young man with a similar cancer. And that person had a rough road but is alive and carrying on still today! What encouragement–and bring on these success stories!
People have stepped forth in the past few weeks to provide whatever connections they can possibly provide. We’ve had information given to us, contacts, phone numbers. I have NO idea what we would be doing without the information gathered for us and given to us. It’s a HUGE help. What we are embarking on is a looming long road ahead and we need all the help we can get–we are so grateful right now to our Christian family all around the world.
An old student of Mom’s from decades ago gave Mom a call just to let her know how much of an impact Mom had on her life.
A sweet family friend brought us notes and messages from one of her groups of colleagues at school. She didn’t even ask her fellow students to write these and I don’t think any of these students know my family personally. But these students were being leaders, encouragements, and selfless blessings–Mom will never fully know of the ripples she has made in their lives, and they’ll also never fully understand what an impact they have had in our lives by their actions.
A story came up how Mom was kind, generous, and thoughtful to a young family several years ago who were going through a hard time. She made a lasting impression. Their love for my mom touches our family and we relish that this connection Mom made through her own giving will be everlasting for all of us to enjoy.
I’m sure I’m missing some sights….some ripples…and I’m sure there’s more to come. And these things are what makes this journey worth it. These are the ONLY things that are keeping my head above water right now and providing me with peace… In the midst of terror, the unknown, and pain we will RISE out of the ashes in the many days, weeks, months, years to come–stronger and with new growth. Like pruning, what is a beautiful result is due only to the discipline of the loving care of the sheers. In the meantime and in the middle of our shaping, we will keep looking for sights and ripples.
Logistics
09. November 2011 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
We are still figuring things out! Obviously this is so new to us and everything happened so fast…decisions, logistics, decisions… However, I think we are progressing now. Mom’s rash and medicine reaction is being treated, we got her radiation mask made, we are waiting on the cancer center to tell us when we can start. I feel like we need to get started ASAP because of the aggressiveness of the cancer.
Also, I was thinking about this from Mom’s perspective the other day…obviously, I’ve been selfish these past few weeks and I want my mom around for ME. For SO many reasons. But I can’t imagine the mental struggles Mom has had to deal with from waking up in a hospital, to being told you have something in your brain, to having brain surgery, to being told terrible terrible news, to again waking up in a hospital but this time not being able to read or write, to having to make life-changing decisions. Man, I’m sorry for being selfish in my own reasons in comparison to that.
We are fighting for mom. We are fighting for our family. We are fighting for all those who suffer for cancer and suffer because of the fallen world we live in. We are fighting and will glorify God through our fight.
Upcoming projects: Team Judy tshirts. A day of fasting.
Stay tuned on these–more info to come!
Right here
09. November 2011 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
I think Mom has been doing better in spirits these past few days. And it’s because God is shining down upon her through the love of all of you!!
I just talked to her and she felt like she got a little hug from our Father this morning!
She needs that. In the midst of turmoil and strife and the stress that our family is going through, it’s so essential–even with having a strong faith, like my mom–that we feel the care of our God. We need to feel Him say,
“Hello, sweet one! I am here. I’m still here. I will always be here. I’m right here!!
And I still love you.
So much.”
So, thank you to all of you for being the hands and feet and heart of God pouring over my Mom. I’ll forever be grateful to you for that.
Update #7
04. November 2011 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom, Update
Mom and Dad got back from Houston Wednesday. Mom has had a reaction to some medicine these past couple of days that’s made her feel worse but with some more visits to the doctor, we think that is finally going away. Today, we were at Harrington Cancer Center for a while and, especially after MD Anderson’s second opinion, we are feeling better about it now. For me, hope has come and gone–our faith in the Lord hasn’t wavered–but hope is a rolling wave. However, today is a brighter day and we will try to constantly remember Psalm 39:7.
Mom should be starting treatments sometime next week. The radiation doctor is preparing her plan over these next few days. She will have radiation and chemo simultaneously for many weeks to come.
So. Looks like we are a go! We still have more decisions to make and LOTS of logistics to figure out…but:
God is guiding this journey and we are fighting the fight.
He has not left us for a second even though it can feel that way. Just like the “Footprints” poem (always has been one of my favorites), our Father is carrying us through this…even better than just walking beside Him! We are in His loving arms and Judy will RISE UP because of His strength.
And absolutely, our family is enjoying each moment together. Zach and I are too young to be without our precious mom, but praise the Lord we have so many wonderful memories and we are determined to make more.
Thank you ALL for support and love. May our God immensely bless those who are SO blessing our family during this time.
Mom’s Birthday
03. November 2011 · 3 comments · Categories: Mom
Today is my mom’s birthday!! What a wonderful day of celebration for my mom’s life and life to come! Being away at college for mom’s birthday and for this journey in general, is very difficult! But I will still Celebrate mom everyday and especially today! I think about her every day and constantly send prayers! I love her so much! I love you Mom!
“Do not Fear, for I am the Lord” Isaiah 43:5
Overwhelmed!
02. November 2011 · 2 comments · Categories: Mom
Overwhelmed is probably an understatement! The speed at which all this has happened is overwhelming. But God only promises us “today” – “today is the day of salvation”, and we do not “know about tomorrow. What is your life like? For you are a puff of smoke that appears for a short time and then vanishes. You ought to say instead, ‘If the Lord is willing, then we will live and do this or that’”
I am also overwhelmed at the amazing concerns, encouragement and prayers of friends, relatives and brothers & sisters in Jesus. One never knows how caring a church family can be until one needs care. God’s Spirit has truly been made manifest in you!
At times, I feel overwhelmed at the darkness. I know this is a tumor from Satan and we are in a great struggle between the “dark” and the “light”. May the light of Jesus continue to show us grace and penetrate the darkness!
“Thank you” is so inadequate. ”Thank you” is so anemic compared to all your love and support. God is good and thank you for being the hand of God!
Lanny
Gratitude & Request
02. November 2011 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
Can I just say Thank You to everyone who has sent us their blessings and sent up their prayers.
Thank you.
Sincerely, thank you.
However, can I also say that we need more…?
The body of Christ has shown such amazing love and support to our family these past few weeks. It’s been truly humbling.
And–I’m doing it–in the midst of being ever so grateful and touched daily to the point of tears, I am asking for more! More prayers!
I firmly believe that if even ONE person, and one person only, was praying for my mom that God would hear and be touched and moved and affected by the plea of one of His children on the behalf of another.
Just one.
Yet, I know that hundreds from all over the world are praying for mom…God is faithful. And just. And He listens.
He listens.
So let’s grab His attention even more than we already have! We don’t have just one child praying to our Father for another–we have a multitude of believers lifting their pleas to the Great Healer! And what an awe-inspiring, incredible blessing that it.
So. For Team Judy–prayer warriors unite!
I think I’ll make “Team Judy” t-shirts.
Update #5
01. November 2011 · 4 comments · Categories: Mom, Update
Well, Mom and Dad are coming back to Amarillo early from Houston. Today, the doctor in Houston pretty much said the exact same thing as the doctor in Amarillo. He also said they wouldn’t do anything, for now, that Amarillo can’t do. He gave the same statistics and life expectancy as what we’ve heard previously. The tumor is already visibly growing back…
I guess I am just a little disappointed; maybe I was hoping for something miraculous to happen this week and this is just not what I was expecting.
We still don’t have a game plan yet–I’ll let everyone know once final decisions have been made.
Just continue to be in constant prayer, thank you!
Update #4
30. October 2011 · 4 comments · Categories: Mom, Update
Mom and Dad are headed to Houston on Monday (early afternoon) and will be at MD Anderson Tuesday through Thursday. They will return [to a homecoming!] on Friday afternoon to Amarillo.
During this time, they have a specific doctor to meet with and we are excited to at least get a second opinion from a group of doctors who specialize in this certain kind of cancer. We are not sure what all will happen during the three intense days at the clinic, but we are assuming tests, consultations, and possibly a plan of action.
As per my wise father, “The Spirit of the Lord is going to be hovering around that hospital all week!”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Please pray for the doctors, pray for peace and a positive outlook, pray for “God sights” during the week, pray for Mom, pray for our family.
…and let’s pray that Mom can be completely healed. Why not??!
Why not shock BSA and Harrington and all the doctors and MD Anderson?
We too often limit our God and let’s put a stop to that right now.
When we teach our young children church songs, we teach them to sing “Our God is so BIG, so strong and so mighty; there’s nothing our God cannot do!!” Why do we forget this in our adult lives?
Lord, heal Judy Newton completely and in doing so, show your glory on this earth–may YOUR name be praised.
(Song suggestion: “Healer” by Kari Jobe)
(P.S. Thursday is Mom’s birthday!)
Update #3
27. October 2011 · 4 comments · Categories: Mom, Update
Life changes and such a complete lifestyle change is so difficult.
Mom is probably going home from the hospital the morning of October 28th. We have an appointment in Houston at MD Anderson on Tuesday, November 1st. We still don’t know details of this trip (kinda flyin’ by the seat of our pants) and we don’t know what the future will hold or what kind of treatments that we will begin. But we are excited about at least going to MD Anderson for possibilities.
The unknown is so difficult.
We need to get started with treatments as soon as possible. Time is ticking away and, again, this is in the most aggressive stage.
Thank you for all the love and support we’ve received thus far! What immense blessings from you all.
In the midst of difficulty,
We are continually praying for God’s miracle.
Love, Aleisha
Saturday, October 29th
27. October 2011 · 1 comment · Categories: Mom
Thanks to an opportunity that my dear cousin found, I am calling all hands on deck!!
This Saturday the 29th of October, let us all plant tulips in honor of Judy Newton and so many others with brain tumors across the country!
Plant tulips?? Yes, you hear me correctly! Please see HERE.
This is the 7th annual Tulips Against Tumors and let’s be apart of it! At noon (12:00 CST), plant a tulip or two and add beauty to our world as we rise together to fight battles of the brain. If you take pictures, send them to me and I will post them on this website to honor Judy!!!
Again, look here and thank you for your support! Happy planting!!
Strength
26. October 2011 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
In moments of weakness and of complete lack of control, in moments of shock and denial… I throw up my hands and can only say that I am NOT strong enough. But He is.
Update #2
26. October 2011 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom, Update
On Tuesday the 25th, Mom had another seizure. She was at the house but not alone, thank goodness, and after what we were to later assume to be several “mini” seizures, an ambulance was called. Mom was taken to the ER but in getting into the ambulance, she then had a big seizure.
She was medicated and we waited on doctors and then she was admitted back into Critical Care. I drove into Amarillo as soon as I could Tuesday evening. We saw several doctors and the neurologist made his rounds at about 2:30 am. During this visit, he told us that her anti-seizure medicine had been low in her bloodstream so there was either a missed pill or two, or the anti-seizure medicine was just not a strong enough/high enough dosage. So her medicine amount has been increased and an additional anti-seizure medicine added to her plate.
The Tuesday seizure has definitely had frustrating and scary effects but we are hoping they are only temporary and will get better with time.
Today–Wednesday–we have seen more doctors, gotten her staples removed from her brain surgery, had an MRI, and gotten an EEG scheduled for tomorrow. She was released from Critical Care and is in a “normal” hospital room until at least tomorrow.
This was another unexpected shock to add to the situation and this process is so new for all of us. Again, Mom has been so healthy in her life and never had major medical problems, so we are all struggling with shock and acceptance. It seems as though the devil throws another bomb into the road just as we are on the upside of HOPE. Just like that ol’ devil! So rude.
In knowing that the spiritual warfare is raging just as much as the physical battle and in keeping with constant faith in the Lord, we pray for strength, positive thoughts, and endurance.
Update
24. October 2011 · 5 comments · Categories: Mom, Update
We are still in limbo right now.
We are currently making decisions about what cancer center to attend and what type of treatments to move forward with. A couple of things happening this week include the removal of staples from surgery and more scans. We do want to see results post-surgery to look at what is actually left from the tumor/growths of the tumor. This will, of course, effect the type of treatment Mom’s doctors move forward with, even though the aggressive growing of the tumor is said to be microscopic.
Of course, as a planner by nature, it’s hard for me to NOT have a steady plan/schedule in place for moving forward in this process. However, I hope we are on the right path and can get going sooner than later with what needs to happen from here to create a miracle. And God is teaching me patience (daily).
Please be praying for solid information, open doors, and wisdom with these decisions.
Seeing God #1
23. October 2011 · Write a comment · Categories: Mom
Hopefully this is the first of many posts describing God moments and glimpses of Him in this process.
It’s been a week full of hopelessness but glimmers of hope as well. We are trying to view the situation as a chance for God is show His power and there is only ONE person I know who can do the impossible–so let’s let Him show off a little bit!!
God, we are watching, waiting, and believing that You can do what might otherwise be unfeasible to any human hands.
On Thursday, literally on the way to the Cancer Center in the car, Mom and I were not listening to the radio–it was turned down pretty low. All of the sudden, Mom leans over and turns up the radio and we start listening. At that exact moment, as narrative was being played on the radio of a woman who had battled cancer. She had a pretty incredible testimony and when told she was to live a couple of more years, she is now an eight (8) year survivor and still counting. She also described special relationships she made along the way as well as telling the doctors to “shush” when they started to give statistics or numbers. She asked the Lord to either heal her soul or heal her body during her journey.
Our God did both.
Amen, and what perfect timing.
Once we arrived at the Cancer Center, we almost immediately ran into an old family friend who had also gone through the process–although a completely different kind of cancer. He had encouraging words and said he would be praying for our family. (We’ll take all the prayers we can get! Let’s RISE UP and employ to the power of prayer.) It was interesting running into him at that exact time because we literally haven’t seen him or his family in years.
This is just one of the many many stories that have surfaced and, I hope, will continue to surface.
Love, support, stories coming forth, lives being shared, children of God being unified, glory being given…
…this is seeing God.
The Story
22. October 2011 · 6 comments · Categories: Mom, Update
It has been a shocking and intense past couple of weeks. I will write the shortened version of the story here. There’s so much more to the story than just this–so many layers, so many emotions, so many discussions, so many hospital hours, so many tears, so many phone calls and letters…and so much more that God is doing that we have seen and also haven’t seen.
Maybe one of us will get around to writing down the story in detail sooner than later.
However, on October 4th 2011, Mom passed out and had a seizure at school. Only her kids and herself were in the classroom and I can only imagine how frightening it was for her kids. Thank goodness also that Mom didn’t injure herself more seriously when she fell–but she only hit her arm on a desk. Then the seizure occurred and Mom does not recall anything of that happening. She was taken to the hospital and spent the next 3 days in the hospital with multiple tests being run to find out the cause of the seizure.
I (Aleisha) was out of the country when all of this happened. I was unavailable by phone and found out about everything when I checked my internet-powered SMS application. I felt helpless. I hated that I was so far away during this. But I was able to keep in touch with both Mom and Dad during the next couple of days and I think the timing of me being out of the country brought about blessings in itself–I had a support system there and many prayers were lifted on Mom’s behalf from the country I was in.
On Friday the 7th, we got some bad news. One of the tests run showed some abnormal growths in Mom’s brain. They immediately scheduled brain surgery for her on Tuesday the 11th.
How did this happen?
Previous to the random seizure, there were no signs, no headaches, no symptoms. It came out of thin air. The devil sure knows how to attack.
The timing of the surgery was perfect because I was supposed to return to the country on Monday night and thus I would be able to be there for surgery the next morning. However, the airlines did not cooperate with me and after cancellations and delays, I finally made it to my mom’s side on Tuesday night after the surgery was already over. I can only pray that Mom’s worry for my safe travels during that time helped keep her mind off of that bigger matter at hand.
Mom was a spectacular patient during and after the surgery.
Miracles happened. And it was ONLY due to the prayers lifted up for her all over the world. The earnest and kind and passionate prayers for my mother. God got us through last week.
The bigger of the growths turned out to be a tumor. A stage II tumor that they caught just in time! And the tumor was on the left side of her brain potentially affecting her speech and mobility. Tuesday night after the surgery, she was talking. She was moved out of ICU on Wednesday and took a walk or two around her room Wednesday afternoon. Praise the Lord! THEN, on Thursday (the 13th) she was released and allowed to go home. Only 2 days after brain surgery! Again, thank you for prayers and thank you to our Father.
We thought we were out of the woods.
However, another blow to the family was thrown at us on Monday the 17th. The tumor had been sent off for tests and the pathology tests came back with results. The tumor was not in fact a Grade II, but rather a Grade IV–with Grade I being the “best kind” and Grade IV being the worst, the most aggressive. Cancer–Glioblastoma Grade IV. The doctors did not give us any hope. They gave us such negative and pessimistic news about what this means, quality of life, options and life expectancy.
What a complete and utter change of life compared to how we were living on, say, Monday October 3rd.
The past week has been hard, emotional, and simply unbelievable. Again, there are so many emotions such as denial, hopelessness, grief, terror and more. We have visited with a couple of more doctors since then and have a tentative plan–yet there are still so many more decisions and determining factors and information being thrown at us.
One thing that I will say is that we cannot live with a looming deadline and pessimistic thoughts, no matter what doctors say. We have a big God who does the impossible. This is going to be His chance to shine.
We are determined to go through this journey together, as a family, and intact with our Christian brothers and sisters. It’s the only way to get through it. We are determined to fight. We are determined to do whatever we can to fight for a life that is FAR from over and a life that is so full and joyful and precious. We are determined–yet we need support. We are determined–yet only God can lift our spirits and carry us down this path. We are too weak, on our own, to be able to take even one step in the direction that we need to go.
Dear Lord, help us with our story. Help us with our journey. Help us to see you, constantly live with purpose, RISE UP to the challenge, and give You the glory. Lord, please bless Judy Newton. She is your daughter, your ambassador, and we absolutely adore her. Thank you.
My mom
21. October 2011 · 3 comments · Categories: Mom
My mom is my best friend. She’s precious to me. She’s the strongest person I know. The funniest person I know. The most faithful person I know. And I want to be just like her.
Our family is going through a rough time right now. I hope we can use this website to keep all our dearest loved ones and closest friends updated. Please let me know if you have thoughts, ideas, or advice about this website or our journey in general. There is a Guestbook page to write a little “thinking of you note” and there is a Contact page that is for more personal, private and truly uplifting notes to my mother. There is also a section where you can donate through PayPal, as you feel compelled to–these donations will go directly to help pay for medical bills and expenses.
Most importantly, we need prayers.
Thank you all for your love and support.
In Him,
Aleisha
Comments
Post a Comment