A Third Walk, October 6
By Jamie Spikes
Yea, though I walk thru the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me (Psalm 23:4 KJV).
I am currently on my third cancer walk. My third cancer diagnosis, ten years after my second breast cancer diagnosis, was gynecological. It was thankfully discovered very early, but it was a “high grade,” or stronger cancer, which was very concerning.
I come from a small family, with only a few of us in each recent generation. Thus, there is little immediate family experience with cancer. However, our small family tree did reveal one paternal aunt with breast cancer, and the other paternal aunt with colon cancer. On the maternal side, Mom’s younger sister died of ovarian cancer.
At this point, my oncologist suggested that I have some genetic testing. This I did–even not knowing if insurance would pay for this very expensive procedure. It was a godsend to find out that my insurance didcover it! But, for me, it would have been worth the cost, for the well-being of my family. As a nurse, I knew that the results could reveal a genetic predisposition that would also put my son and his children at a higher risk for cancer in their lives. If that was the case, they could get regular screenings. Catching a cancer and treating it early would have a better chance of a good outcome for them.
The test showed that I do have a BRCA2 variant gene. The “variant” part of that means I have a genetic predisposition toward developing cancer again. So, although I am more than ready to be done with cancer, this test result has shown I am at high risk for more cancer diagnoses in my gynecological system, blood, bone, skin and abdomen. This was not easy to hear, but I am thankful that, with this knowledge, my son has been vigilant in proactively getting regular PSA testing. And I will continue to get cancer screenings on a regular basis.
When I shared this information with my three maternal-side female cousins who have children, they were somewhat disinterested in any genetic testing for themselves or their daughters. (One cousin has already had breast cancer, and is being followed carefully.) As a nurse, I don’t understand why they don’t want this information, but I understand there are a number of reasons why they might not want to follow up on it. I have had to rest with their decisions.
Dealing with all of this, while I was confused and discouraged at times, I knew that God was with me. I would have felt more alone and helpless had it not been for my faith, and the sometimes small—yet tangible—quiet hugs from God, reminding me that He was there. I knew I was NOT alone nor abandoned. I have taken the opportunity of this experience to witness to others that in spite of our trials and tribulations, God is there with us and for us, a very present help in trouble!
Pray: Dear heavenly Father, thank You for being with me on all of my difficult journeys. Help me to help others on their walks through the rough times in their lives. May our adventures along the cancer path bring glory and praise to You for your abiding love and compassion. Amen.
Your Turn: Take a moment to remember ways God has tangibly shown His love and care for you as you traveled a difficult journey, be it health-related or other. Then, ask Him to show you someone you can encourage in their walk today.
Jamie Spikes, Cancer Survivor
Jamie is a retired nurse educator, and a widow whose husband died of prostate cancer. She has one son, who serves in the Army Medical Corps, and is blessed with two grandchildren. She is on her third cancer journey and, due to a genetic predisposition, is presently on medication to prevent further cancers. Jamie is the group facilitator for Cancer Companions at her church in Manhattan, Kansas.
Cancer Companion’s vision for the future is for every person impacted by cancer to know the hope, love, and grace of Jesus and that every oncology team has included faith in their treatment toolbox. By 2033, Cancer Companions will provide 5 million engagements through cancer prayers, scriptures and interactions to those impacted by cancer. Engagements include; social media outreach, e-newsletters, prayer team requests, 30 days of Cancer Prayer event, and volunteer connections.
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