PCM 07-08-2010 "The battle of her life"

Here is a message I sent to my friends at PLM [Patients Like ME]. It is a group of about 20,000 ms patients some of whom are also battling secondary or [as in Sista Nancy's case] WORSE diseases. In spite of all they go through they still seem to find the time and effort to help each other out and have built a strong community. There are forums with new threads every day, people helping people, the way it should be.


A few days ago I was going through the threads to see who may need some love and encouragement when I came across Sista Nancy who in her words is "in the battle of her life". I came here to PLM just a few short months ago and somehow missed taking part in her thread. I joined her and many of you in this battle and shared the following regarding her "battle". Just as a quick recap she has been diagnosed with ms since 1994, was diagnosed with brain cancer recently and started a battery of treatments that are difficult. They got 4 tumors then found 2 more just a few days ago. They are starting radiation and chemo soon and she needs our prayers more than ever.

Jan's study is so fitting for her and us, I included also the NIV and Message versions only because that is what I am accustomed to reading, all the version say the same thing just in differing words.

Heb. 4:15
New International Version (NIV) The Message (MSG)
15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are--yet was without sin. 15 We don't have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He's been through weakness and testing, experienced it all - all but the sin.

“We have not a high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities.” In some other versions, it uses the word weaknesses. What a great God we have that He allows Himself to be touched by our infirmities, and He willingly feels the loss of our losses!

Below is the latest message I sent her

To Sista Nancy, 4 down 2 to go! We are with you heart, soul with the strength of your family here to lean on know you are not in this alone. We will battle with you through every treatment, be there to encourage you through all the side effects and cheer you on as you beat this thing. We love you though we have not met you yet and have great expectations for your future!

With Prayer, Love and anticipation of the sure victory ahead,

Bill Sullivan

Psalms 5:11 NIV and message version [a beautiful duet]
11 But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. 11 But you'll welcome us with open arms when we run for cover to you. Let the party last all night! Stand guard over our celebration.
12 For surely, O LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield. 12 You are famous, God, for welcoming God-seekers, for decking us out in delight.