On Friday, February 20, the home health care nurse arrived at our house to disconnect the “fanny-pack” pump which completed Lois’ 17th infusion of Chemo drugs. Of course, that all started on Wednesday at the University Hospital in Iowa City where Lois received three doses of drugs before they hooked up the 46 hour drip. The lab work was encouraging! The CEA tumor maker did not go up but decreased by one point. That is another answer to prayer. We continue to pray that the liver numbers will improve although Lois is not experiencing any negative symptoms from the less than optimum liver function.
Lois is doing exceptionally well. She deals with the “chemo cold,” the need for more sleep, and is careful about pacing herself. If you were to observe her from day-to-day for a week, you would most likely conclude that Lois is not limited by the cancer or the treatments. She spends a lot of time with our six grandkids, cleans, does laundry, cooks – all the things she loves to do. Although cancer has impacted her life, she has not stopped living!
There is no doubt in my mind that the cancer has impacted you most by bringing you closer to your savior and helping you enjoy the things you love most here on earth. Because we all look at you as an inspiration, we are learning these things through you. Thank you, Lois, for being all God created you to be.
A friend on earth, and a sister for eternity, Donna.
It never ceases to amaze me, even though it really shouldn’t, how well you are doing. What an inspiration you are and a testimony to the positive attitute I have always seen in you. What a great reminder for me also to cherish each day for the simple beauty each one holds. It is a joy to clean and wash and yes, EVEN cook! and spend time with my children. Thank you for being my friend and sister, too. Love always, Carol
Lois, the Bible study group I lead prayed for you recently, and I was able to use one of Jim’s nkuredge emails in our lesson. It was the one featuring the prayer for blessings, for only good gifts. It fit right in with our lesson from the first chapter of 2 Corinthians, as we talked about how God uses suffering in our lives and gives us hope to persevere. What a contrast! Your life is certainly being used to impact others, including me! Love and prayers, Miriam
Well, Lois Eschenbrenner you are one tough and gentle lady. “So God raised him to the highest place. God made his name greater than every other name so that every knee will bow to the name of Jesus….everyone in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. And everyone will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord and bring glory nto God the Father.” Great words and promise of HIM to US! In deed He has given us great promises, not only of salvation but the incredible promise of heaven as well. I know that He is using you and your testimony to the highest level of honor and glory to and due HIM! What a joy and peace to proclaim; “I am redeemed!” Pastor Phil