Thank you so much for all your messages and e-mails checking in. I apologize for essentially abandoning you, but I’ve had good reason. I have been diagnosed with Stage 1 cervical cancer. There. I said it. I hate saying it. It seems like an oxymoron to call myself a blogger who is a private person, but it fits. It’s not that I don’t trust people to know things necessarily. I just get uncomfortable talking about myself too much. I’m not a “cancer chronicles” type of person. Does that make sense?
I was diagnosed after the holidays, had a radical surgery at the end of January, found it had spread into a lymph node, and been on chemo and radiation ever since. Basically, my life has absolutely sucked during 2014. The problem is that I am not responding to anti-nausea medication–all 12 of them that they have me on. I have been hospitalized or bed-ridden since January 30th, and it is breaking me.
This is where most normal people would go on about all the complications that have occurred and problems that have come up, but I will just leave you with “it’s been really bad.”
Sooo blogging takes a backseat. Everything takes a backseat. I have giveaways I never announced, sponsored posts that were never written, and projects that were essentially abandoned. When comparing those things to telling your kids you have cancer, it just doesn’t matter anymore. One thing cancer does? Puts things into perspective. I know that I married the most supportive and loving man on the planet, that I am loved–I mean really loved–by my family and friends, and that my kids are the most perfect and wonderful people I know.
I still have a bit of a road ahead of me, but the “bad chemo” is almost over. One more treatment, and I can hopefully start getting some semblance of my life back. Wishful thinking? I certainly believe in the power of prayer, and I’ve been doing a LOT of it.
When this is all said and done, I plan on burning my sofa and my entire bedroom. Kinda sick of being in/on both of them, ya know? So maybe that’ll be something we have to look forward to. 🙂 I promise to check in again as soon as I’m feeling better, and I really do appreciate all your concern and support.
Latest posts by Chris (see all)
- Tartan Plaid Bedroom - December 1, 2021
- Favorite Things 2021! - November 24, 2021
- Our Christmas Wishmas Tree - January 3, 2021
Praying for you and your sweet family. Thanks for sharing…take care.
Prayers going up for you, Chris.
Hi Chris. I was just about to head to bed and read your post. I can’t imagine what you (and your family) are going through during this season of life. I commend you for keeping it real and letting your readers in on something so personal. Please know that you are now in my prayers. Blessings to you & yours. -Diane
Many prayers coming your way!
xoxo
Chris,
I’m so sorry that you are going through this ordeal. I will say a prayer for you that you recover and can resume your life with your loving family.
I’m not sure if you follow Ceekay on Thinking Of Home. She is going through the same as you and offers lots of support and good advice. If you get a chance check out her blog.
Best to you.
hugs
Sissie
Many many happy supportive thoughts being sent your way!
Just take care of yourself and focus on getting well. Bask in all the love and prayers being sent your way.
Sending prayers and positive thoughts your way. Blogging can wait, just take care of yourself!
-Shelley
Ugh I HATE CANCER! I’m so sorry you are going through this, please know that I am praying for you! And yes, EVERYTHING else can always go on the back burner, family and yourself come first!
Praying for you, Chris. Take care of yourself! Regular life will be waiting for you when you feel better.
I don’t believe I’ve ever commented before but wanted to acknowledge this post because, like you, I’m a private person so I know how hard this must’ve been for you to write. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God bless you that those anti-nausea pills take effect soon & that you are given a clean bill of health.
So sorry to hear. When I noticed that you weren’t on for a long time I felt something was really wrong. Thank you for letting us know so that we can pray for you as well. I’m sure your students at RHS are missing you as well. Your health is number one so don’t worry about your blog followers. We will still be here.
Liz – Freeland, MI
Thank you for sharing what you’ve been going thru. Stay strong and KICK IT”S ASS!!!
Sending you lot so f healing energy and love!!
~ Jillian
http://www.hersplitends.com
Don’t worry about the blog world or anything else. Take a deep breath and totally focus on being well. Sending prayers and healing thoughts your way.
My heartfelt prayers go out to you and your family. Just a word of encouragement, I am a 19 year ovarian cancer survivor. When I was feeling like you do now I used a psychologist who used bio feed back to help me get through the days. Nausea is the very worst. love and prayers will continue. ( and I know I am supposed to just listen now, not interject my experience, but…)
I read your blog all the time and wondered where you have been…I am so sorry to hear this and I pray that soon you will have some wonderful news.
I just said a prayer for you and will continue to do so. I’ll look forward to seeing pictures from your bonfire!
Prayers to you
Sending prayers and positive energy.
The Blog world will wait for you… nothing but prayers and positive thoughts to you and your family.
It’s hard to share when you are a private person.. but sometimes it just helps to put stuff out there and let the world lift you up!
So glad to hear that you are close to the end of the ‘bad chemo’ treatments.
You hear about cancer but dismiss it-until it touches someone you know (even indirectly through blogging).
You are stronger than you know and have a wonderful partner.
You are helping others by sharing.
Sending you a big hug as well as my good thoughts and prayers!
My prayers are with you.
Absolutely praying for you. I know it must have been so hard to share this, as I’m definitely the same way. I also know how flat-out miserable chemo can be, especially if the nausea mess don’t work. My mom went through something similar, and I’ll definitely be praying for some relief!
Chris you WILL beat this!
Because you chose to share a very private moment you will encourage many women to finally get exams they have been putting off. In doing so you WILL save lives.
My heart is full of love, prayer and get well wishes for you.
Thoughts and prayers.
Chris, My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. I haven’t commented on your blog before but I have loved reading your blog and have been checking for updates to see how you were doing. Thank you for sharing your brave struggles and I will make an appointment today with my OB/GYN as I am one who has been putting it off. Prayers and hugs…
Get well soon!
Praying for you and your family!
So sorry to hear all this Chris 🙁 I will be praying that for you!!!! xo Kristin
Sending positive thoughts and energy your way.
praying for your Chris!!
Don’t worry about us. We’ll be here when you kick cancer’s butt and come back. I’ll be praying for you.
Well, Chris, this just put me in tears. I am so, so sorry to hear about your diagnosis, but THANKFUL for the news that it is Stage 1 and that you are in treatment and close to the END of treatment. The only reason I can think of to be even a TINY BIT frustrated by the lack of sharing is that I didn’t know specifically what to pray for. But those of us who just sit out here and read day to day can hardly ask to be privy to such personal details! You take care of YOU! That’s the most important thing. And know that we will be here when you feel up to coming back. AND that I am praying for your health, the success of the chemo treatments, for a solution to your ongoing nausea, and for the wisdom of your entire medical team. Oh, and for peace for your family, because I know this has to have been so difficult for them, as well. Just wanted you to know that those things specifically will be lifted up in your name! Feel well, friend, and please let us know if there is any way we can support you from out here. 🙂
Feel better soon! I will be thinking of you and praying for a clean bill of health.
I’m so sorry that you’ve had to deal with this, Chris. Hoping that things start looking up soon! I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Will keep you in my prayers.
You WILL get through this!! I’m so happy to hear that the hardest part is over!! Just know that there are so many people out there wishing for your health and healing. It absolutely breaks my heart to know that you are going through this!! Sending positive thoughts and prayers your way!! Keep pushing and stay strong!
Prayers and hugs to you as you fight this!
Hang in there…your blogging community is pulling for you!
Praying a) for you to kick cancer’s butt, in grand fashion; b) for you to get over the nausea — quick like; c) for peace for you, your wonderful hubby, and your sweet kiddos. I’m sure I speak for everyone when I say that we’ve missed you, but not just your great projects — we’ve missed YOU. I understand how opening up like you did can be hard, but I’m glad you decided to share your struggle with us because how else would we know what to pray for? Take care of yourself. Hugs.
thank you for sharing this with us. when I was diagnosed with stage 1 melanoma, I didn’t tell anyone at first. I think I was scared that if I actually said it, it would mean it was more true. anyway, I am glad you are down to your last treatment.
I am learning more about essential oils. have seen and felt the immediate effect of them on my knees! I wonder if they would help with your nausea?? something to consider.
I’m so very sorry to hear this 🙁 sending prayers and positive healing thoughts your way!
Praying for you and your family!
Prayers coming your way!
Wow, missed you, but wow….hang in and be your lovely self for your family…blog world will be here when you get back. 🙂 be well, hugs from Ontario Canada. (((((((( you ))))))))
I’m crying right now…I’m so sorry you’re going through this, I am waiting for results on an abnormal pap test currently myself , my daughters friend was diagnosed last year she is doing well, another friend was finally diagnosed last week with a very late stage of cervical cancer its so crazy…hang in there I am sending so much love and big big hugs, you will get through this beautifully, take care
Chris
Prayers for you and your family.
Saying a prayer for healing and strength.
I am so sorry for all that you have had to go through. We will be praying for you and your family to have the strength to get through this.
I’m so sorry that this has happened. I hope you find strength soon and work on a speedy recovery… as fast as something like that can go. Nausea is truly one of the worst things so I cant even imagine being like that for so long. God bless and take care!
I am so sorry you are having to go through this. Be strong. Keep praying and know you’ve got many others praying, too.
STAY STRONG! I will be praying for you, and hope you make it through this last chemo and get a break from how horrible it is. Keep us updated on how you are doing. You will survive. <3
prayers
Lots of prayers for you and your family. I look forward to your posts when you are feeling better, but take care of yourself first!!
Hi Chris, I’ve followed your blog for a few years and have never commented. Thank you for sharing. We’re all behind you in this fight, and I know you’re going to kick cancer’s ass. Don’t worry about anything else, just get better.
Hugs from Royal Oak
Been following your blog for a while, I’m just not a comment-er.. 🙂 But I wanted to let you know that I’m praying for you! I hope you start feeling better soon!
man, i’m so angry it’s this. it’s always this, you know?
thoughts are with you and stay strong.
Praying for you and your family!
Chris,
I am a long time reader but have only commented a few times. I will be praying, praying, praying. Glad to hear of all the support you have at home and in your community. Your readers will be here when you are feeling good again to watch as your burn the couch!
Thanks for checking in, and huge hugs and prayers to you and your family! While I don’t have firsthand experience with cancer, we’ve witnessed my husband’s twin brother bravely battle lymphoma, and two stem cell transplants. It was difficult to watch him not be able to carry on like he normally does, but he is doing amazingly well now, and I wish the same for you.
As an active person, I’m sure you must be going crazy being stuck in bed. It’s all fine and good for maybe a day or two, but after that, forget it – you must be so sick and tired of being sick and tired. Hang in there, and know that so many of us are thinking and praying for you. Focus on you and what you need to do to get well. We’ll be here for you. 🙂 xoxo
Sending prayers your way! May God bring you comfort and relaxation during this hard time. I’m praying that you come out on top!
Sending prayers and support your way.
Praying for you. I know the feeling of exactly what you are going through. Cancer sucks, but it gives you a different perspective; a better perspective. You will get through it. I got through it. I’m coming up on my 1 year of stage 3 Ovarian Cancer and I can’t believe it. Life will go on and you will be so much stronger than you are and ever thought possible. Blogging about it all helped me through it and now I look back at my blogs and see how strong I really am.
So, so sorry to hear that you are going through this. Praying that the nausea will end and that you will be back to yourself soon. So glad you have a wonderful supportive husband and family. That makes everything just a little bit easier.
Keeping you in my prayers and hoping for a good recovery and a remaining part of the year that is full of good things!
Prayers and hugs from a mom and a woman.
Prayers for your recovery and spirit! Love on your family and we will all be here when you get back!
Just started receiving your blogs at the end of 2013. So sorry to hear about your cancer. You in my prayers. Happy Thoughts!!!!
What can I say but all my best wishes
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your right, none of those other things matter. Sending warm hugs your way.
Hi, I have followed the blog for a while now and had been wondering what was wrong.
I just wanted to say that I was also diagnosed with stage1 cervical cancer in April 2011, radical surgery followed with no lymph spread. I am now 9 days away from my exact 3year diagnosis date, and likely my last 6 monthly colposcopy check up. I hope you all the best for you and your family xxx
I am so sorry to hear what you are going through. I hope things begin to seem and turn brighter for you and your family. I cannot begin to imagine what going through this and being a Mom does to you. Stay strong!
So sorry to read this but glad you’re surrounded by support! Prayers that things get well for you soon!!!
I’m so very sorry this is an experience you are having to journey through. I will be praying for you.
I am so sorry to hear this; God bless you and your family.
Will definitely keep you in my thought and prayers. You got this!!
Stay Happy and positive. Lots of prayers sending your way for you and your whole family. In no time you will bounce back with double the force; till then take rest, take care of you and think of Happy thoughts.
Oh my DEAR Christie Bell! I love you so & I’m praying for you constantly my dear friend. HUGS x 1000.
When 2 or more are in agreement, God is in the midst! Adding to the prayer chain — stay strong, my sister in Christ!
Prayers for you and yours.
Hi Chris,
I absolutely believe in the power of prayer and I will be praying for you…..
Debbi
I’m so very sorry that life has thrown you such a curve ball… I know from experience how life-robbing cancer can be. My heart hurts for you and your family. Please know that you will be lifted up in prayer by so many.
I hope you find comfort and strength in knowing how much we miss you, love you and wish you the fastest/easiest recovery possible.
Sometimes we just have to ride the waves until HE calms the storm!
Sorry to hear about your diagnosis, and the difficulties you have been experiencing. As someone who has been there three times since 1999, let me tell you there is a lot of good life after cancer. Be good to yourself, understand that you will be tired for quite a while, but make plans and get on with things.
Bless you sweet lady!!!! How awful, terrible, horrible, nasty, ugly, rotten and just plain no fun! Prayers and healing thoughts heading your way!!!
I’m very sorry to hear this news. I certainly know what it is like to hear the dreaded words, “you have cancer”, I was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer at age 36. No fun! I hope you start feeling better soon and the nausea will be a distant memory. You are right, the one “good” (not much good about cancer!) thing cancer does is put things in perspective! It also helps you say, “no” more often to things that in the grand scheme of things just don’t matter! I’ll add you to my prayers!
oh my gosh, I am very sorry to hear this sad news! I will be praying for you!!
So sorry to hear of your illness. You have every right to be private about it. But I’m sure all of your readers are saying a prayer for you now. Thank goodness you are almost at the end and will be redecorating your bedroom soon!
We will be praying for you and your precious family.
Sorry to hear this news
I am so sorry to hear what you are going though! Just wanted you to know…I’ll be praying for you!
Sharon
Bless your heart :(. It’s horrible to have such an awful illness but on top of that to be nauseated must be horrific!! Positive thoughts for you and your wonderful family and friends!!
I’m so glad that the worst is over for you. You and your family are in my prayers. I can totally understand why you’d like a bedroom makeover. That sounds like something wonderful to look forward to.
Praying for you and your family.
So glad you shared. I had a cervical cancer scare this past year. It ended up being ok, but after reading your post I now realize how important it is to keep getting checked. Hope you get feeling better sooner than later and God bless.
You are in my thoughts and prayers – hang in there, you have some beautiful days ahead of you!
I don’t know you personally but I can tell you your story has hit home. Not because I have the same illness but the realization that anything like this can happen at any time and that we have to cherish what we have and let go of the small stuff. As a fellow mom my heart is hurting for what you and your family must be growing through. I will keep you in my prayers every night and hope for a speedy recovery!!
Take care of you! Sending positive, happy, get well vibes thru email to you!!!
Many thoughts and prayers headed your way. Glad you have a wonderful supportive husband and lots of friends and family by your side.
Prayers to you and your family.
Yes, cancer certainly does put things in perspective – that’s for sure!
Hang in there, girlfriend – this too shall pass. Thoughts and prayers coming your way – keep your spirit tuned in for them.
So sorry to hear of the rough road you have been traveling. Praying for strength, healing and better days ahead.
Chris-
I am so sorry to hear your news! You are such an amazing person- you have inspired me in so many ways! Your blog was the very first blog I ever read and became instantly smitten with you and your fabulous ideas! Please know that I am thinking of you and praying for you and your sweet family. Hang in there girlfriend! xoxo
Best wishes to you and I pray for your speedy recovery.
So sorry about your illness. I can’t imagine what you’ve been going through. Thank goodness you have great people (your family) in your corner. Have you heard about Kris Carr? She’s a plant-based food blogger who was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in 2003. She improved her health through nutrition. You can find information on her website: http://kriscarr.com/about/about-kris/. I hesitated to share this info but would feel remiss if I didn’t share something that might help you. All the best to you and a speedy recovery.
Wishing you all the best for strength and most of all health.
At 39 I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. There was lymph node involvement. I had chemo, radiation, and a complete hysterectomy. I knew from day one that I would recover completely, which I did. And I know you will too. Try to sleep through as much as you can, worry about nothing (as much as you can) and don’t discount hormone replacement therapy out of hand. It saved me, I think hot flashes were worse than the chemo….lol
Before you know it, 20 years of being cancer free will have passed, as it has for me. Thank God for an early diagnosis and successful treatments for this type of cancer. God bless you and your family!
I was diagnosed with breast cancer just four months after getting married. That was 14 years ago. I took double doses of chemo treatments for three months. I remember the broken feeling. I can also remember it being the sweetest time I have ever spent with Jesus. Just remember, He has all of this already worked out for you. Just spend this time looking for what He wants to teach you and what you are to take from this experience. You will emerge a different and stronger person with a special perspective on life. May He carry you in His arms and cover you under His wings. Just know you are still the apple of His eye!
I’m so sorry to hear this news, Chris. Praying for strength and healing. Sending love and prayers from Florida.
Chris
Thanks for being brave enough to share with your blog followers. Sorry to read about your diagnosis and struggle with chemo and radiation. When my Mom was going through chemo her dr and nurses encouraged her to drink a ton of water to help flush the chemo out. It seemed to cut down on the side effects. You have many people believing in you and praying for you. We will be waiting to see the photos of the couch burning and see what great new ideas you come up for your bedroom and family room. You focus on yourself and we will be here when you come back. Take care Chris!
It´s a very sad news. Im speechlees in this cases we never know what to say, everything seems so vain and superficial. I hope the Lord give you a soon healing, and you can get your life back again. Best wishes.
Praying for you and your family. You are so strong to share.
Love you, Chris! XOXO
My thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this.
Surround you and your family with prayers; praying for freedom for the nausea and for you to continue to see how loved you are. Thanks for sharing this private part of your life.
So proud of you for so many reasons. LOVE you BIG!!!
Oh Chris, my heart goes out to you. I know you’re a strong, courageous, amazing woman who will kick this cancer in its butt. Praying for you every step of the way! And sending lots of virtual hugs your way. XOXO Erin
prayers have been lifted up for you, spoken even before I typed…adding on to all the lovely women above and their prayers….don’t know how you can’t possibly get better now! with all these fabulously genuine girls covering you and petitioning the Lord for your healing. You are so being loved and thought of from afar! And covering your family of helpers, too, for strength and peace and energy to get through their day as they rally around you. Blessings!
I appreciate and respect your willingness to let us in to a very private and terrifying time in your life. I want you to know you are supported by so many people…and the ironic thing is many of them you haven’t even met face to face. We follow your blog for ideas and inspiration but now I am following more for the beauty you display from your strength and courage and not just your designs. Your children and husband (and doggy) will be your source of everything that pulls your thru. God will continue to bless you and are a true representation of a fighter.
Prayers for you to beat this and be feeling stronger soon!
Oh, Chris, I was so afraid something like this was going on. I’m very happy to hear they caught it in stage 1. I’ll be praying for you throughout this ordeal. I know the next few months will be rough, but you’ll be on the other side before you know it.
~Chrissy (the crazy airport chick)
We don’t know each other and I’ve never been where you are…however, at my age, I’ve had friends who were exactly where you are.
In time, in every case, they went into remission and are back living the lives they love.
You have a wonderful husband and family and friends to see you through this. Lean on them (and your friends here when you have the inclination).
Thinking of you and your family as you go through this tough time. Don’t worry about us – your readers will be here when you’re well enough to resume blogging. Take care of yourself and we’ll welcome you back with open arms when you’re ready 🙂
I’m so sorry that you are experiencing this awful illness. Stay strong and know that there are a lot of people out here praying for you. Don’t feel guilty in any way for not blogging. Your health and your family are the most important by far. Many blessings…
Sarah
Prayers for you and your family, and you are not “just a girl”-you are an amazing, strong, beautiful child of God and He loves you!!
Oh no! I can’t even imagine what you and your family must be going through. I’m right there with ya; I most certainly believe in the power of prayer and will for sure be praying for strength for you and your family. In your update post when you mentioned “lots of meds and careful sitting” I thought maybe you were dealing with hemorrhoids (I’ve had three kids soooooooo…….)! That was just silliness and not at all trying to make light of what you are going through! I am praying for you girl!! And thank you for trusting us enough to share this with us.
Chris,
I have been following your blog for several years and knew something wasn’t right. First of all, thank you for sharing. While it was not an easy thing to do, you may have just convinced someone to go to the doctors for a check-up. I send lots of prayers and well-wishes for a speedy recovery. As everyone else has said, do not worry about your blog…we’ll all be here. I will continue to faithfully check in.
-Elaine
I’ve also been following your blog for several years…. Sending you lots of prayers!!! I know you’ll kick cancer’s butt – you’re an amazing and strong woman! Take it easy – the blog and everything else can wait. We’ll be here for you!!!
Praying that God lays His healing hand upon you and gives you His peace. Positive thoughts! Attitude is Altitude!
Praying for you girl!
Prayers to you and your family. Glad to see you back! Hope to see more of you after you’ve had a chance to rest and regain your health!
I can only imagine how this pushes everything into perspective. Thanks for sharing what’s been going on – sure hoping your recovery from here is smooth and fast. What a scary time for you and your family – but how wonderful to know how much you’re loved 🙂
hi – just googled ‘budget freindly design’ and found this blog. you will be in my prayers! look forward to rading your blog in the future! wishing you only good things!
elena
Sending prayers to you and your family!
I hope one day when you are up to it, you will find comfort and feel the love in
all the comments.
So sorry to hear about this awful experience.
I too am a pray-er, and will pray for you and your family.
Steelers6
Prayers lifted for you
Sending many prayers your way, for healing, for strength, and for hope! God is good, all the time, and He will sustain you in times of trouble. Keep paddling, and we will keep paddling with you. 🙂
Jolene
Chris – Please know you that people you have never even met are praying and pulling for you. I have long enjoyed following you on your blog, Instagram and Pinterest. Many prayers and good thoughts being sent your way!
Sending prayers to you and your family for healing and strength.
Good thoughts, prayers, and positive energy coming your way from the Northwest. May you kick cancer’s *ss and later find a blessing or two in the perspective that it will give you always.
Praying for you. Wishing you a speedy recovery and that you will soon be cancer-free!
Chris – You are so brave and I am glad I was able to know you through it. Your sense of humor will get you through this, plus all your friends and well wishers out there.
Many thoughts and prayers – You can do it!
So sorry to hear. Glad your family is taking care of you. I always feel bad when blogger’s are concerned about us (the readers). We are never important in the grand scheme of things. Your family and health always come first. I’ll keep you in my prayers and hope you have a speedy recovery.
2012 was my sucky year going through what you are with breast cancer. It’s really hard to think it will get better when you feel so crappy all the time but there is light at the end of the tunnel. Hang in there and stay strong. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
Thank you so much for updating us. And I am so sorry you have been going through this. I just spent 2 days going through a detox of some sort and it was horrid – I cannot even imagine what you are going through. I will be praying for you and your family – cancer sucks. hugs!
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I’m so sorry you are having to go through this. I wish you the best of luck and pray for a speedy recovery. Hang in there! You are loved!!
I never comment but I just had to today. Many many thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. So sorry you are going through this trial.
Sending prayers and hope for a speedy recovery.
Good luck. Stay positive.
Your readers love you too. 🙂 I wish you love, comfort, and a speedy recovery.
Hi Chris!
Just wanted to let you know I have been a faithful reader of your blog now for many years. I just read your post, and I wanted to let you know you have more than an army of women and families praying for you and your family right now. My heart sunk when I read your post, and although we dont officially know eachother, I feel as though I know you and wanted to write to let you know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending you good thoughts and praying this trial & time passes quickly for you. Hugs
-Shannon Strong (NY)
So sorry you are going through this. Sending positive healing vibes your way!
Hoping you feel better soon. Take care! Wishing you health.
I almost never comment on blogs BUT I knew that I should here:
Chris thanks for sharing. I know that was hard to do. I will be praying for you. Karen
I, too, am a private sister so understand you holding your situation close. But because of your bravery, now others are going for checkups AND prayers are going up for you like crazy! Please begin visualizing yourself as you want to be – every cell whole and healthy, strong, happy, carefree… Believe you are already that way, saying “I am (whatever).” Hope I don’t sound crazy – I’m just a Christian, simple woman making her way through this world. And I know this works because I have used it in impossible situations and God sees the faith and moves the mountains. I look forward to reading your blog on a daily basis as I have done ever since I found it! Much love to you and yours!
I simply want to say “get well soon” even though that seems just so… inadequate.
I will keep you in my prayers
You brave courageous girl! I’m proud of you for putting yourself out there and sharing your story. You are in my thoughts and prayers daily, and I wish I could shoulder some of the burden you have been given. You are so incredibly loved and adored my friend. If we can pray you through this then consider it done!
Prayers for you! So sorry to hear your news 🙁 but so glad to hear what a wonderful support system you have. The people we love are extra important when we struggle. I hope the worst is over for you and that you can enjoy all those loved ones this summer!
Chris, i’ve been praying for you for a couple of months now, not quite knowing what was wrong, but knew it had to be serious. I will continue to do so and keep you in my thoughts.
Blessings to you and the family x
Oh my, I had no idea you absence was because of something so serious (though I should have). Prayers for you.
Chris, I believe in the power of prayer. You and your family are in mine.
I am so sorry to hear this!! Praying for you and your family!! Much love!
Rachel
Praying for your strength and your healing. Stay encouraged God is faithful. Rest in Him. Take time to take care of you. XOXO
I am so sorry to read this! Much love and many prayers to you in this difficult time. there are no words. It took courage for you to tell people that. And that courage will see you through all of this.
Thank you for letting us know about your battle. Prayers and heartfelt good wishes to you as you recover. Hugs to your family for their part in the battle, too.
Praying for you! So sorry to hear this! May GOD have mercy and bless you and your family! Fight with all your might dear.
Cancer sucks! So sorry that this has happened to you…praying hard for your recovery…You still look beautiful!
You poor thing!! I prayed for you today.
Every single second of every single day please know that you are greatly loved and prayed for! You will beat this!!! Hang in there and take care of yourself, nothing else right now really matters! Much lov and healing hugs!!!
I was so sorry to read about your diagnosis. I hope some good moments start replacing the bad moments (which may be continuous right now). Sending hugs and well wishes to you and your loved ones.
Normally I do not comment on your or any other blog (I am an occasional reader hopping over from other blogs or just checking in), but this is too serious not to. I am shocked; and so sorry to hear what burden you are currently carrying… I don’t know what to say to give you comfort, but I wish you strength and courage, and kick this cancer in the rear! And God bless your husband and kids and all your loved ones around you who support you every day of this difficult journey! You will win this!
Praying for a quick and full recovery.
Please ask and let others help you and concentrate on getting yourself
healed.
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Hi Chris! I am a long time reader. Thank you for sharing all you have on your blog. You are an inspiration in many ways. Praying for you now.
Praying for you, and your family. May God wrap His loving arms around you all.
Oh Chris– I just want to hug you, my Michigan blogging buddy!! There’s really never the right thing to say–and I’m terrible with words.. but you’re in my thoughts, and you know.. You’ve got this, my friend–. You do! You’re strong! I’m definitely praying for you and for your family and I admire you so much for sharing this even though I know how difficult it is, mama.
I am also a long time reader but not one to comment. Stay strong and positive! You and your family are in my thought and prayers.
You’re in my thoughts! Get well soon!
Paige.Rose
{Fellow Blogger}
have you tried atavan?
I’ve been a reader of your blog for years, but I don’t think I’ve ever commented. I just wanted to say that I’m sorry you’re having to go through this. My son went through a year of cancer treatment when he was 2, and it was life changing for the whole family. So hard, yet it really does focus your priorities to what really matters. I’ll pray for healing and help with the nausea for you. We’re approaching 10 years now since his treatment, and he is a happy, healthy 12 year old. Hope is your friend. Hang in there.
Sending lots of prayers and good vibes to you and your family!
Been thinking and praying for you since day 1. Big HUGS! This will be behind you soon! Xoxoxo
Chris, Your blog was the very first blog that I ever read. I was mesmerized by the before and after photos, your beautiful home covered in snow, even your teacher appreciation gifts had me hooked! Over the years I have followed you and look forward to your blogging future. More than that, I am now praying for healing in your life. What an incredible difficulty that you have been going through and I feel honored that you would share your hurts with your blogging community. So we will pray. Pray and wait for your healing and cheer you on! May God bless your days and for love, praying that 1 of those anti nausea meds start working!!
Oh Chris I am soooooo sorry to hear this!!! My 32 year old sister in law was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer in September and it pains me to hear of another young vibrant woman diagnosed with cancer!! Hang in there and stay strong….you can kick cancer’s butt!!! Big hugs and positive thoughts from another Michigander!!!!
Sending you many blessings for strength and patience, chris. I really hope you recover soon and life returns to normalcy.
Plenty of love from Dubai
Naush
Prayers and positive energy being sent your way!
I just stumbled on your site from Pinterest. I read your most recent post and for some reason I felt compelled to comment. Cancer sucks for sure. I wish the best for you. Keep fighting!
Thoughts and prayers your way!
Prayers for you and your family.
(((hugs)))
God Bless you and your family.
Chris,
I have always loved your creativity and design ideas on your blog. Thank you for sharing your gifts with all of us in the “blogsphere.” And thank you for sharing such personal news about your diagnosis and treatment. I have prayed for you as soon as I read this. I prayed for your continued recovery, for doctor’s wisdom, and for the medicines to be effective. But more than all those things, I prayed that God would be near to you. Through a close family member’s diagnosis and treatment, we relied on God as He is truly the Great Physician. When we seemed to reach the end of the medical options, we saw His power and faithfulness. I pray the same for you and your family. Many blessings and prayers to you! And we will look forward to your next blog post, whenever that might be! ~ Tara
I have been following your blog for years. I am a Christian who firmly believes in the power of prayer. That said, I will pray for complete healing, so you can get back to life in all its fullness. God be near you in this really hard time.
I am so sorry you are going through this difficult time. Prayers for strength & comfort for you and your family.
Get out of the hospital, very few actually come out alive. Watch this and see if there isn’t a better way…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0psJhQHk_GI
Prayers for your healing and relief from the nausea!
My mom found that the only thing that helped with nausea during chemo (after trying several anti-nausea prescriptions) was Hyland’s Nux Vomica (it’s homeopathic and can be found at Whole Foods). Prayers and swears!
Oh, so very sorry to hear about your health challenge. Sending prayers for the Lord to relieve you of your nausea and to give you the strength to totally kick cancer’s butt!!! 🙂 Prayers for you loving family and friends too! Miss you and hope you are back soon!
I don’t usually comment…but just know that lots of people are praying for you, and the blog can wait…we’ll still be here when you get back.
I wish there was something I could do for you! I am praying!! I will especially pray today about this nausea. Much love to you!
P.S. I meant to say that I wish, besides praying, that I could bring a meal or do something to help.
Oh I am thankful for an update even though it’s not what I had hoped. I went through this with my son in 2010. He was only 3 and now he is a healthy 7 year old. Chemo is rough! Jed said one time in Sunday school that he hoped the devil had to get chemo! I agree. I am praying for you and will add you to my church prayer list. Prayer was so priceless to me when Jed was fighting muscle cancer. It’s still priceless, but you know what I’m saying. Praying in Arkansas.
Praying for you that you have a speedy recovery. I’ve had friends who have had this and they are doing great today! Hang in there!
You are in my prayers.
Uff da! I’m so sorry that you are dealing with this! We’ve never met, but I’ve been reading your blog for years and I feel a connection with a fellow teacher/crafter/home decorator. You are awesome and I pray that you will come through this!
I am so incredibly sorry to be reading this. I so wish there was something I could do to make your days brighter! Just know how much you are loved and that many prayers are being said. Hugs to you and your family.
Oh I hate when someone so talented and special has been dealt something so difficult to go through. I believe in prayer and mine will be with you daily. Love to your great family taking care of you.
Thank you for letting us know the struggle you have been facing. I have been concerned for you and will keep you in my prayers. Your blog has been such an inspiration to me and you are missed by many. Take care of yourself and get the rest you so need. You will overcome this! Hugs!
GEORGE MALKMUS’ TESTIMONY
George Malkmus at Church
History of the Hallelujah Diet
Hallelujah Acres was founded in 1992, but the story of how it began dates back to 1976 when Rev. George Malkmus was told he had colon cancer.
In 1976, Rev. Malkmus was a very successful pastor of a large church in upstate New York when he was diagnosed with colon cancer — the same disease that took his mother, despite chemotherapy, radiation treatments and surgery.
Feeling like the “treatment” his mother received was more of a threat than a cure, Rev. Malkmus turned to an evangelist friend, Lester Roloff, who advised him not to go the medical route, but to simply change his diet to raw fruits and vegetables, and to drink lots of fresh carrot juice. He did, and slowly but surely, symptoms began to dissipate and disappear. So he studied everything he could, including the Bible, about this simple way of eating, and found the answers he was looking for in Genesis 1:29.
In 1977, after a year of living this new lifestyle, Rev. Malkmus’ baseball-sized tumor had disappeared, as did every other physical problem he was experiencing. His body had been restored!
Sharing The Message of Hope and Healing
This gave Rev. Malkmus a new vision: to tell the world about this change, starting with the Christian community; having been a pastor for 20 years, he felt compelled to share this life-saving information. So, in 1989, Rev. Malkmus wrote his first book, Why Christians Get Sick to share his knowledge and healing experience (today, more than one million copies of this bestseller are in print).
However, most Christians shunned Rev. Malkmus’ message. So he began to show that the body of modern medical science supported the wisdom of the original diet given to mankind by God in Genesis 1:29. Those who did listen and who changed their diet, healed themselves. Soon they offered powerful testimonies, making their wellness contagious.
One of these people was Rhonda Jean who, about a year after adopting Rev. Malkmus’ message, had lost over 80 pounds, and her arthritis was totally gone. Inspired to share their stories together, Rev. Malkmus and Rhonda were married in 1992.
Hallelujah Acres is Born
That same year, George and Rhonda expanded their capacity to share their message by holding seminars at their 50-acre farm in Eidson, TN—which they named “Hallelujah Acres”. They also opened a small restaurant and health food store with a 16-person capacity in the small town of Rogersville, TN.
Just one year later, the growing popularity of Rhonda’s living food recipes and George’s message of hope and healing necessitated a move to a 56-person facility. But feeling that they needed to spend more time on the message than waiting on tables, they closed the restaurant in 1994 to concentrate on delivering seminars on their farm.
The move also afforded time for George to write his second book in 1995, God’s Way to Ultimate Health. All the while, the couple was busy putting together a newsletter called Back to the Garden (which still exists under the name Hallelujah Acres Health News), making radio and TV appearances, producing audio/video presentations of their message, and developing the Hallelujah Acres Health Minister program to recruit others to help spread the message.
Hallelujah Acres Finds Its Home
By this time, the simple truth and optimal health The Hallelujah Diet offered were really catching on, which meant George and Rhonda needed more help — and more space! So, in November 1997, they moved to Hallelujah Acres yet again to its present location at 900 South Post Road in Shelby, NC, a former Bible college on 17 beautiful acres.
From here, dozens of employees now help spread the message George and Rhonda began in 1992. The facility boasts a 500-seat auditorium to host George’s famous once-a-month, free Saturday Seminars and Rhonda’s food prep classes. Health Minister training sessions, Health Minister reunions, and the annual Women’s Retreat are also held here. There’s also a full size warehouse and office spaces, the county’s largest health food store including a juice and smoothie bar, and an expanded, gourmet version of the Hallelujah Acres Café that started it all.
In 1999, Hallelujah Acres opened a second headquarters north of the border to serve its Canadian customers. Hallelujah Acres Canada is located at 2 Queen Elizabeth Boulevard in Toronto, Ontario.
Hallelujah Diet Timeline
http://www.undergroundhealth.com/baking-soda-true-enemy-of-the-pharmaceutical-industry/
Oh, Chris. I am so very sorry for all that you’re going through. So sorry.
A few things in this post made me smile through my tears:
–the words “Stage 1” (oh, thank God for early detection)
–that the “bad chemo” is almost over (Things are bad when you can start thinking in degrees of chemo, huh?)
–that you can see that you “loved–really loved” by your family and friends
I am so grateful to know that you are getting good care and I trust that you are on your way to a full recovery. That’s what I will be praying for. It’ll be good to see you up and about and well and whole again. God bless you, sweet lady.
Stay strong, and think positive even when it feels like the darkest day. Our minds have amazing under estimated powers. All my well wishes on a quick recovery.
I’m not sure I’ve ever commented on the blog but I am so sorry to hear that Chris! I can’t wait until you feel better! I’m cheering for you.
Though Ive never commented in the past, I’ve been an admirer and follower for years. Seeing the projects you have tackled with patience and humor has given me courage to take on a few of my own! I can’t help now but think, little did we know those projects you’ve tackled over the years would be preparing all of you for this project. Fighting this fight. With patience, humor and prayers!
I’m Sending you healing thought, prayerful thoughts, restful thoughts and humor filled thoughts like, what color blue is that wall, is it B. M. brand? just kidding! But really is it a Benjamin Moore? Really just kidding, sending a little humor your way.
Everyone is correct when they say your blog can wait. Save your energy for healing god bless you and keep you in his care
Maggie
Fellow high school teacher
ohio highway patrol men’s wife (retired)
Mother of two (sons)
Grandmother of two (girls) yeah!
God bless you, and I’m praying the chemo works for you! I pray that god will let you bounce back better than before.
Thinking of you Chris! Hoping for a complete recovery!
i will pray for you. 🙂
Hello Chris, I’m new to your site getting ready to start a project can’t help thinking about you and your family. I was just at Home Depot and read this ” Don’t wait for the storm to end, learn how to dance in the rain”. I have skin Cancer and I just keep dancing 🙂 prayers and hugs are with you.
I thought I would check in and see how things were going for you and this mysterious sickness. My heart dropped. “Dear God” I have said over and over. Oh, you are correct–who gives a bleep about anything else when those words come your way. I am praying for you, thinking of you, and even thought “I’ll be in Cascade in less than a month and I could bring her my Gourmet Chocolate Chip Cookies!” I wish I could help you in some way. I will have you (and your family) in my thoughts and prayers. You are so strong to have made it this far. I can’t imagine all you have gone through. And I can understand the burning of beds and couches. 🙂
My prayers are with you and wish you a speedy recovery!