It has been about 3 weeks since our last family update. In many ways, it feels like our lives run in a three week rhythm now. Every 3 weeks, Kimberly sees the oncologist. Every 3 weeks Kimberly has another chemo infusion. This has been our rhythm for the past 16 weeks, alongside the steady drumbeat of a daily targeted treatment for her lung cancer’s particular mutation.
As someone who is used to life having a weekly rhythm (Sundays occur every 7 days after all), life feels like it has slowed down a bit over the past four months. In other ways, though, time is flying along. Josh is nearing the midway point of his second semester at OU. Wildwood is just 90 days away from wrapping up the construction phase of our Deep + Wide program. We loved the chance to gather with a number of our missionary partners at Wildwood’s Missions Conference this past week. And, Kimberly’s body seems to be responding well to the cancer treatments. We have much to be thankful for as Spring Break approaches!
As we head to mid-March, Kimberly’s medical team has added a new riff to our rhythm. Beginning Monday, Kimberly will have 5 radiation treatments on (what is believed to be) the original cancer site in her lung. This radiation is designed to burn up what the chemo has shrunk. The targeted treatments and chemo will take a week off while radiation does its work, then start back to keep the cancer in a dormant state.
As we adjust to this new groove, we’d love to have you pray that the radiation does not cause any unintended damage, but eliminates cancer in that original mass. We’d also love to have you pray for wisdom for her medical team as they determine the best plan for treatment after radiation. We also pray that all the cancer cells in her body right now would be eliminated, restoring her to full health. Personally, I’d also love to have you pray for me as the past couple of weeks have been played in a “minor key” for me. And also, please join us in praying for God to be glorified and for us to continue to see His goodness to us through it all.
In Christ,
Mark, Kimberly, and Josh
Dear Kimberly, Mark and Josh, My heart is continually with you during this incredibly difficult time. May God surround you with His peace and strenth each day. God is our refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1), May God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him (Romans 15:13). Can’t wait guys, to hug nd kiss you in Jerusalem. Love you, pray for you, Arie.
Mark, thanks for the updates. I appreciate them very much. I’m glad to hear Kimberly’s treatment is working. I’ve been praying you all every day and will continue specifically as you’ve requested. Sincerely, Barry