This is the blog that will provide updates on Marisa as well as allow friends and family to leave comments, well wishes and strength for all of us. Please forgive the techno/impersonal/ungezellig nature of this but it allows us to get the word out and for Marisa to read your comments. Thanks for all your prayers and concern.
Love Mendelt
P.S. To leave a comment please click on Recent Posts – Marisa’s Adventure (which is half way down the left column).
P.P.S. Or click on the Comment Link in the meta data just below the Posts title. The Posts permalink page will display all that posts comments and has a place for you to also give your two bits. Comments will not be displayed publicly until they have been moderated by Mendelt.
Life 
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January 2, 2007 at 9:36 pm
Alec Home-Douglas
Kick some butt, Marisa!!!
January 2, 2007 at 11:00 pm
Klaas & Tanya Hoekstra
We’re here to help as much as we can. We look forward to updates.
January 2, 2007 at 10:25 pm
Jacoba Doris
This is a really nice way to communicate. You know we can help anyway we can. We love you all lots:)
January 4, 2007 at 8:42 am
Ted Harris
Mendelt and Marisa, You are in our prayers daily, and the SDCH staff will be behind you all the way. May God bless you both in the coming days.
Ted and Wilma
January 4, 2007 at 9:03 am
Joanne
Marisa, you likely don’t remember me but I have been a co-worker/friend of Mendelts for many years. Prayer is Powerful and you are being lifted up today!!
January 4, 2007 at 11:02 am
Mike and Karen Carmody
Welcome to the blogger world guys. So sorry to hear the bad news about the liver results. Stay strong – it’s all in God’s hands. We love you and we’re praying for you and your family.
Mike and Karen Carmody
January 4, 2007 at 11:11 am
Neeke en René de Boer
Dear Marisa and Mendelt. We saw the pictures from Oom Gerzinus of the five of you; so beautiful. We would love to give you all a big hug to wish you well! In out thoughts and prayers we are with you all!
January 4, 2007 at 12:08 pm
Tony and Ruth Ann Kamphuis
Marisa and Mendelt – it is quite a shock to hear of this significant challenge you are facing! We really appreciate this means of communicating as well, because we don’t feel ‘close enough’ to bother you with “yet another phone call”, but we certainly feel close to you as a bother and sister in Christ and as people connected through the Christian school community. We will be praying for you, at home and at both Covenant and John Knox. You are loved and supported! We will pray in particular for the meeting today with the surgeon.
Tony and Ruth Ann Kamphuis
January 4, 2007 at 12:09 pm
The Pols fam
Dear Mendelt and Marisa, Zion, Jacoba, and Zekijah,
This is a really good way to be able to inform those who love you dearly, without having to forward messages… your family is in our thoughts and prayers and we trust that God will provide you the strength necessary to beat this disease. Marisa, you are young and strong and you need to keep your head up and keep smiling your beautiful smile! 🙂
We love you and are here for you, through thick and thin.
May the words of Paul from Romans 8:28 bring you comfort,
“And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those that love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
Praise God continually for He has made us and we are His sheep whom He holds in His loving hands.
Love in Christ,
Andrew & Cheryl, Donavan, Gavyn, Owen, and Sheldon xoxo
January 4, 2007 at 12:18 pm
Martha Groot
Hey guys…..wow have we been praying for Marisa and the whole family! Please remember that we are in Burlington and are here to help you and the kids whenever you need!! May the power of God’s hand touch you today and in the days to come!!
Martha, Steve and kids
January 4, 2007 at 12:22 pm
Marlene Bergsma
Dear Mendelt and Marisa, you are constantly in our thoughts and our prayers. When you have some specific prayer requests (like sleep) please let us know so we can storm the gates of heaven for you. May you feel carried by the love of God and his people.
Marlene (and Dean and Madeleine, Adrienne and Benjamin)
January 4, 2007 at 12:45 pm
monique
Let go of the place that holds,
Let go of the place that flinches,
Let go of the place that controls,
Let go of the place that fears.
Just let the ground support me.
Listen, the wind is breathing in the trees.
Sensing the edge of soft and hard,
I follow the unseen path.
Walking in the dark night,
I practice faith,
Building confidence in the unknown.
Walking in the dark night,
I practice courage,
accepting the vastness
of what I cannot see.
(Poem by Stephanie Kaza)
January 4, 2007 at 1:15 pm
Carrie
Marisa and Mendelt. We have been praying for you and your family, that you will have strength and courage. Love, Carrie and Mike
January 4, 2007 at 4:24 pm
Karl, Mariella & Nikolai Hoekstra
You are all in our thoughts and prayers! Have courage – we look forward to your news.
January 4, 2007 at 5:09 pm
Margaret
Hold in there Marisa.
Even though it is bad news we will storm Heaven’s door with our Prayers.
Love Marg
January 4, 2007 at 5:38 pm
Julie Pilling
Marisa,
Although we have not seen each other in sometime the announcement made at Hope CRC this past Sunday moved me deeply. I had to let you know that you are being lifted up to Him who can bear all your hurts and heal your disease. God is good and He will give you unknown strength and courage. Whatever He asks us to lift, He gives us the grace to carry. Godspeed Marisa and Mendelt. With much love,
Julie and Zach Pilling
January 4, 2007 at 5:53 pm
Belinda Klunder
Marisa/Mendalt
My prayers are with you. I know we dont know each other on a personal level but we do belong to the same church family. I will be praying for you.
I work at Joseph Brant and if I can be of any assistance to either of you while you are there please just call ext 4132. I am working next week days mon/tues.nights wed/thurs
May God bless you in the next couple of days while dicisions are being made.
Belinda
January 4, 2007 at 6:18 pm
Jim and Linda Poelman
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We will pray for healing, courage, hope and the ability to find rest.
Much love,
Pastor Jim and Linda Poelman
January 4, 2007 at 6:46 pm
Betty Steenbeek
Wishing you both strength and patience. All the best from Redeemer Athletics as well…Go Royals!
Betty and Tony
January 4, 2007 at 7:32 pm
Sandy
Marisa and Mendelt, sorry for the news. No one ever wishes for anyone to get that kind of news. We keep you in our prayers every day and prayer is a very powerful thing. God gives us strength for many things and He will give you all the strength to beat this. Think positive and put your trust in Him.
With Love
Sandy
January 4, 2007 at 7:58 pm
Barry & Peggy Carmody
Mendelt & Marisa
So sorry to hear your bad news….be strong…. and please know we have you and your family in our Prayers.
Barry & Peggy Carmody (Mike’s Parents)
January 4, 2007 at 8:26 pm
Lani Harris
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
Marisa, I know that we don’t know each other personally, but I know Mendelt well from our work together at Bethesda. You are both in my thoughts at this difficult time. This blog is a wonderful way for us to keep in contact, without disturbing you.
Thinking of you,
Lani
January 4, 2007 at 8:52 pm
Alisa & Rick Groot
Mendelt & Marisa,
We send you our love, tears and most of all prayers. God is always near, and we prayer that you feel His nearness through all the struggles you are facing. Since our families are similar, both with three very young kids, I feel a particular burden for prayer for you. Only you know what it feels like to be in your shoes right now.
Thanks for this blog, letting us participate in your journey, and showing how we can pray for you and serve you.
Love in Christ
January 4, 2007 at 8:59 pm
Jenn
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
We are thinking of you daily and praying for you and your family. May God give you strength, comfort, and hope.
Love
Geoff and Jenn
January 4, 2007 at 9:22 pm
Pete and Wilma Groot
Just talked to Chris and he told me the sad verdict from your doctor’s visit.
Marissa and Mendelt, we are all praying for you …do not be discouraged ..as so many otheres have said we must all remain positive..prayers to our heavenly Father can bring forth miracles and praying is what we are doing. Trust God with all your strength and leave it all in his hands.
Love always
Pete and Wilma Groot
January 4, 2007 at 9:50 pm
Dorothy Oegema
Dear Mendelt and Marisa, Our prayers and thoughts have been with you continually since your Dad shared the news with us. We share the prayers of your friends and family that God will be all to you that you need Him to be for you as a couple and also for your children. May He continue to be your strength and, as Pastor Jim prayed, may you find your rest in Him. May you be physically strengthened as you go through the treatments. Love and prayers from Uncle Hans and Aunt Dorothy
January 4, 2007 at 10:05 pm
Jared & Darlene Dykstra
Marisa,
We are in a small group with Chris Groot. Though we are strangers we are so thankful for this website so we can pray specifically for your needs and your family who support you. Thanks for the opportunity to read about your journey – what a witness to trusting in the Lord.
In Him,
Jared & Darlene Dykstra
January 4, 2007 at 10:07 pm
Mike, Mireille and Bianca
Marisa,
Know that we think of you with every passing moment. Despite the distance, allow us to offer as much love and support as is Earthly possible. Should you require anything–anything at all–do not hesitate to let us know.
Hoek, you know my folks, brother, and sister would lend a hand at any level, at any time. Just ask.
Marisa: You are an amazing person. It is no wonder that you are the sun and the moon to the brightest person we know. Speaking of Mendelt, he says that you are going to “kick cancer’s butt!” Let there be no doubt. After all, you’ve got everything you need to do the job: Friends, Family, and Faith—what better inspiration exists?
Strength is made perfect in the face of adversity. Be strong; dig deep; give it everything you’ve got; and above all else, keep the faith.
Wally
January 4, 2007 at 10:57 pm
Fred and Helen Reitsma
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
How precious your time together must be now. To be together pleading to our God the great physician who heals all our diseases. We thank God for the spirit in which you are dealing with this shocking news. We’re praying for you and pleading with our heavenly Father for complete healing for you, Marisa. May His angels surround you and protect you both. We pray that you will have restful nights and peaceful days as you prepare for the treatments. Be strong, take courage and communicate with God, who can do immeasureably more than we can imagine. Our prayer group at church was praying for you last night and every Wednesday night we promise we will not forget to hold you up in prayer. We trust that God can make all things well. We love you, Helen and Fred
January 4, 2007 at 11:09 pm
The Bakkers
Marisa and Mendelt,
Our hearts and our prayers are with you. May you find encouragement and strength in God. May the peace of God that Paul describes in Phillipians 4 fill your hearts and minds during this time.
Phillipians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Love,
Jeff, Erika and Anna Sophia
January 5, 2007 at 1:54 am
Trevor and Rebecca
You’re in our hearts and minds every day.
We can’t wait to sit down with you one day soon and talk about how you kicked cancer’s butt.
Love,
Trevor, Rebecca, and Charlotte
January 5, 2007 at 8:46 am
Jim & Trish Krale
Marisa and Mendelt,
We were saddened to hear this news and encouraged by your obvious strength and faith.
We will pray often for Marisa’s healing and also for God’s grace, comfort and strength in the days and weeks ahead for you both and your family.
Jim & Trish Krale
January 5, 2007 at 9:49 am
Joel & Carolyn Vriend
Marisa and Mendelt,
We are praying for you and your family. May God continue to give you His strength each day as you rest and trust in Him.
Love,
Joel & Carolyn Vriend
January 5, 2007 at 10:50 am
Anita Lubbers
We have so much in common and like I have said before, at the end of this year you and I will both be able to say “we are cancer survivors” Its a scary road God has given us to take but He is there every step of the way. Someone else who battled cancer told me “When I look ahead I get scared and afraid, but when I look back, I can see that God is faithful.” So don’t look ahead, concentrate on today, on this hour, on this moment. God’s blessing to you as you start your treatment next week and keep a positive outlook, it makes a world of difference. And Mendelt, we aren’t just praying for Marisa, we are praying for you and the kids too, we know this is a tough journey for you to travel also.
Anita Lubbers
January 5, 2007 at 11:40 am
Ken and Dana Huizinga
Marisa,
Do you remember how I would always send you a poem when I wrote you a letter. Well what better time than now to pick up that habit again and write you a few words of comfort, love, and prayers. You guys are in our thoughts a lot and even more now. I know you are strong and that nothing will bring you down but with the strength and love that you have for each other and God you can make it through anything that is put in your path. I am here to help in any way, all you need to do is call and I will be there..We love you lots,
Ken, Dana, Joshua, Caleb, Jacob, Daniel and Nate XOXO
Here’s for you Marisa:
Life is so precious
There are so many decisions to make
You sometimes wonder whether it is all worth it.
Frustration is accompanied by sadness
Why does this have to happen to me
Why am I being put to the test.
Don’t let things get you down.
I know you can overcome it all
With a little help and encouragement.
I am here for you
Like you were for me
You have so much to give.
Life would be more interesting
If there were more people in it like you.
You make me smile when things are rough
I hope I can do the same for you.
You deserve only the best.
Please don’t get down
But if you do, know that I am here to lift you back up.
January 5, 2007 at 3:04 pm
Walt and Nancy Hartholt
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
We were shocked and saddened by this news. We will pray for you Marisa, Mendelt and your children. God’s grace and strength.
Walt, Nancy, Lucas and Kendra
January 5, 2007 at 5:34 pm
Cecil & Tracy Alkema
Marisa and Mendelt,
We will keep you and your children in our prayers.
We will pray for healing, strength, patience and comfort.
Prayer is powerful.
Cecil & Tracy Alkema
January 5, 2007 at 6:18 pm
Frances
We will pray you through the valley, but Jesus walks with you.
Much love, Frances and James, Johnathon, Amelija, Oliver and Zoe
January 5, 2007 at 8:06 pm
Jon and Sharon Dreise
Marisa and Mendelt,
We received news of your pending battle from my brother and sister-in-law Geoff and Jenn. We will pray for you as well.
God is always with us. Sharon was diagnosed with Breast Cancer last January (2006). Her diagnosis, and treatment were timely, the prognosis was excellent, but we had to confront our mortality.
There is nothing more painful than telling your children (Ours were 6, 9, and 11) what challenges and possibilities that may lay ahead. God is good, Take Courage.
We shared every detail with our children, family, school, and church. Being strong was sharing the facts, not hiding our fears. When people know what to pray for, even the little things, they do. God is Love, take courage.
Patience is a gift from God. We learned to be patient. Patience waiting for tests, patience recovering from surgery, patience driving to treatments, patience in waiting rooms. Waiting for all of these services becomes an opportunity for thankfullness. Thankfullness we have access the best the world has to offer; free with a small wait! Our world belongs to God, and he allows us to use it. Take Courage.
Enjoy one another, every minute. The future is bright, God’s love is real, the love that brought you together is part of that. I grieved, I feared, and I imagined things that might happen. It’s hard not to worry about tomorrow with 3 children and a wife with cancer. Sharon has beaten cancer…. for now or forever? Your news hit home. Having experienced Cancer very recently, we saw our mortality. I still fear and imagine things. God is my refuge and strenth. I love your anthem: Take Courage.
Sincerely, Jon Dreise with best wishes and Love from Sharon as well.
January 5, 2007 at 8:49 pm
Susanne Wood
Dear Mendelt and Marisa, Zion, Jacoba, and Zekijah,
Our hearts go out to you all as you face this journey. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Marisa, you are a beautiful, strong, and inspiring woman. I loved working with you at DCCS. You have a quiet strength and a strong faith in the One who made you, who loves you, who weeps with you, who will carry you.
I got your card a few weeks ago and the beautiful picture of your kids is hanging on our fridge. When I look at those beautiful miracles, I pray for you and Mendelt and your family. I pray for strength, for hope, and for healing.
Please let us know if we can help in any way.
Love and prayers,
Susanne, Daniel, Sember, Emma and Jayden Wood
January 6, 2007 at 12:38 am
Eric VanHuizen
Mendelt and Marissa
Shocking news from you. Our prayers and thougths are with you and your children. A special prayer will go up for your children during this confusing time.
Be strong and fight like a ROYAL.
Eric, Tracy, Krystina, Michael, Jonas, Silas, Willem
January 6, 2007 at 1:49 pm
Marsha
Dear Mendelt and Marisa,
I’m shocked to hear the news and I pray your appointment goes well today. God can do amazing things and we will pray daily that He grants you His healing, and peace during this difficult time.
I’m sending you a huge, hug, Marisa! Hugs and kisses galore!
Hang in there with the strength only God can provide. . .
With Lots of love,
Marsha, Wayne, Jenna and Samuel
January 6, 2007 at 2:46 pm
Michelle Prinzen (Eggink)
Mendelt and Marissa,
Marsha Gibbons (Heeg) passed on an email from Karen Zandstra (Carmodie) regarding this disappointing news. Although it has been some time since we’ve been in touch, I felt a strong urge to let you know that we are praying for you! Our God is a God of healing – I’ve seen it in various family members of my own (Both my mother-in-law and 2 aunts have beat breast cancer!!) and He will carry you through this! “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you or forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 This is a verse I have long loved and in light of your theme “Take Courage” I thought I should pass it on. Maybe it is this verse from which you chose your theme…. Anyways, know that God goes before you and is with you. Blessings to you and your family. Bert and Michelle (Eggink) Prinzen, Henry, Ashley, Joshua and Owen.
January 7, 2007 at 1:26 pm
Glenna & Ron Middel
Dear Marisa & Mendelt:
You are in our thoughts and prayers. We pray that the following message is as reassuring to you as it was (and is) to us when we dealt with, and conquered this disease in 2000.
“Faith means being sure of the things we hope for and knowing that something is real even if we do not see it.” Hebrews 1:1
“Faith is trusting what the eye can’t see.
Eyes see the prowling lion. Faith sees Daniel’s angel.
Eyes see storms. Faith sees Noah’s rainbow.
Eyes see giants. Faith sees Canaan.
Your eyes see your faults. Your faith sees your Saviour.
Your eyes see your guilt. Your faith sees His blood.
Your eyes look in the mirror and see a sinner, a failure, a promise-breaker. But by faith you look in the mirror and see a robed prodigal bearing the ring of grace on your finger and the kiss of your Father on your face.” from: When God Whispers Your Name — by: Max Lucado
Blessings! and Faith! to you as you “take courage” and conquer.
Glenna & Ron
January 7, 2007 at 10:35 pm
Christine and Hart Fast
Dear Mendelt & Marisa:
We are thinking and praying for you and as you journey this difficult path. We pray that God will give you strength and peace.
Christine and Hart Fast
January 8, 2007 at 2:53 pm
Henry Lise
So sorry to hear about the cancer. Christy told us about it. She is quite shook up! Who wouldn’t be?! I just wish you lots of strength during this particular trying time!!!
Henry Lise
Orangeville Christian School
January 8, 2007 at 9:21 pm
Joe, Leanne and Carter Vanderkolk
Dear Mendelt, Marisa and family –
We just wanted to say that we are thinking about you each and every day. If you need more meals, just let us know – Joe loves making lasagne, after all his nickname is ‘Martha’. Anyway, if you need someone to watch the kids for a while (we live off of Lake Avenue near the QEW), just let us know – Leanne’s mom would love to see the kids again. We are amazed at the positive and courageous attitude that you both exude – you are truly a fantastic family.
We are sending our love and healing thoughts and prayers.
Love Joe, Leanne and Carter
January 8, 2007 at 9:47 pm
Dee
(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Marisa))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Mendelt)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Zion)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Jacoba))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Zekijah)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
All Safe in the arms of Jesus’ Love
Hugs and Prayers. Trust God and have faith. He is our comforter, our joy, our peace, our everything. Keep being yoked up with Jesus.
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice (Philippans 4:4).
C-A-N-C-E-R
C … is for for Christ who gives me strength – “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13).
A … is for Jesus’ promise to Always be with me until the end of the world – ” I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” (Mathew 28:20).
N … is for the promise that Jesus will never leave me – “I will Never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” (Hebrews 13:5).
C … is to Cast all your cares/troubles on Jesus, for he cares for me. “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7).
E … is God’s promise of Everlasting life “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have Everlasting life.” (John 3:16).
R … is for my Redemption and the forgiveness of sins “In whom we have Redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:” (Colossians 1:14), and Rest for those who are troubled “And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,” (2 Thessalonians 1:7).
With these promises from God’s Word Marisa you have already won. Because He lives you can face tomorrow.
My love to you and your family as you are being lifted up to our Lord in prayer.
Dee
January 9, 2007 at 2:39 pm
Doreen Breukelman
Mendelt & Marisa, Zion, Jacoba, Zekijah,
Thank you for allowing us to walk this journey along side of you via this blog. We are praying bold prayers for you. I know you know this but please feel free to use us in any way you need us right now. (babysitting… we’re close by!)
doreen on behalf of fred, nisha, derick, alia, silas
ps. (how incredible to read over all the messages sent by caring family and friends. Marisa – you and mendelt and the kids are being lifted up daily!!!)
January 9, 2007 at 7:52 pm
Tom and Mary Wallis
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
Mr. Wallis and I are holding you both very close to our hearts. Please know that our prayers will be with you Marisa each and every step of the way. We hope that you are able to feel and take strength from all the love and support that surrounds you at this time.
Mendelt, please call upon us whenever you need assistance, day or night. We can babysit for long or short periods of time, provide driver assistance for appointments and are on standby by for any other help you may need. Tom and Mary Wallis
January 10, 2007 at 8:29 am
Anja en Hans Sennema
Lieve Marisa, Mendelt, Zion. Jacoba en Zekijah,
Hans and I, we are very distressed and sad to hear that Marisa is ill. We know that the five of you and both your families are awaiting a difficult and uncertain time. You must know that your family in Holland , really all of us , think of you and are concerned. In these times I very much regret that the Hoekstra,s are living sofar away. I wish I could hold your hands for a little while and say to have courage and trust in our allmighty God. Together with the ones who are around you we send our prayers to Him from whom we believe that he can make all things well. We wish you strenghts for the time to come and know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Love from uncle Hans and aunt Anja.
January 11, 2007 at 4:10 pm
charity, monique, nicole
Dear Marisa and Mr.Hoekstra
It took us a long time to figure out what to type for your but we have conquered that problem… mr.hoekstra. Our thoughts and paryers are with you and your family, along with our own families. God has a plan for you and your family and we might not always understand it but we have to stay strong with our faith and continue to walk with God. You will always be in our prayers. All the best
Charity, Nicole, Monique
P.S. Mr Hoekstra you are the best music teacher we ever had and will ever have and we love your different colour socks!!
January 11, 2007 at 4:11 pm
charity, monique, nicole
it took us a long time to figure out what to type for your name(at the beginning) mistake made sorry!
January 11, 2007 at 11:29 pm
Corrie Zandstra
Thought for the day:
“I lift up my eyes to the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.”
Ps. 121: 1, 2
One of my favourites! May it give you comfort to know God is there!
Luv & prayers
cJz
January 12, 2007 at 10:07 pm
Mike, Mireille and Bianca
Marisa,
A bit tired this evening, I dreaded the thought that my daughter was likely to give me a tough time with something–and then, much to my surprize, almost incredibly…she didn’t! Instead of a whine, I got a beaming smile, one that gave me an unexpected jolt of perspective and energy.
This episode caused me to think of you. May the coming months be as full of beaming smiles, tiny teeth, long lashes, big hair, and sudden jolts of perspective and strength as you require!
Best wishes.
Wally
January 13, 2007 at 5:32 pm
Dorene Eggink
Mendelt & Marisa
Tough times are just that, tought times. The days may be dark, but in the midst of it God shines never more than now. Trust him, lean on him, and he will see you through, not around but through.
Kept in our families prayers
The Eggink Family
P.S. Keep the music in your soul
January 14, 2007 at 3:28 pm
Andrea O"Neill (Clark)
Hello Marisa. As with a few others it has been many years since I have seen or talked to you but my sister, Nadine (she goes to your parents church in Brantford) told me just a few days ago about your major health issues and I just wanted to write to let you know that Kim will not be the only ambassador from the USA!!! My family and I, down here in California, will also be praying for you and your family. My memories of you are nothing but a warm, smiling, giggling girl who was a joy to be around. Keep up that wonderful spirit while you endure all or your upcoming treatments to beat this cancer.
In Him,
Andrea O’Neill
January 14, 2007 at 11:06 pm
Corrie Zandstra
Greetings Marisa: Hope your day was somewhat OK! Did you have a chance to enjoy the beauty of the snow as it fell for a while around noon? It was such a delight – it just made everything look so white and clean. It always makes me think of: “That’s what God does for us – every day. Washes us whiter than snow.” And again today being in church with God’s people – to praise, worship, pray and petition. No matter where we live, what church we belong to, God delights in His people and He hears our prayers!
Thought of the day: “So in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” Rom. 12:5
Luv ya – cJz
January 15, 2007 at 11:25 am
Diane & Ralph Bakker
Marisa & Mendelt
Words cannot express what our hearts feel. You are thought of every day and we continue to lift you up to Gods throne of grace. May He sustain you, comfort you and give you abundant peace and most of all bring your body healing. Cancer has become a familiar dirty word to our family, Ralph has 2 brothers with prostate cancer and a sister currently undergoing chemo for ovarian cancer, ‘Why’? is a question with no adequate answer. As followers of Christ we know that this is not our home, but while we are here, the desire to remain with our loved ones is natural and strong, Solomon says in Ecc 3, that God has set eternity in our hearts, I love how Rick Warren puts it in the Purpose Driven Life,(chapter4,pg36) We were made to last!!, if you haven’t read it, I hope that you will, it will bless you, if you have read it then you know what I mean. Keep pressing on Marisa and know that the prayers of the saints continue to lift you up. Revelations 5 talks about the living creatures holding up bowls of incense before the Lamb, they contain the prayers of the saints. We pray that each day you will experience the embrace of your loving heavenly Father.
In Christ Diane&Ralph
January 15, 2007 at 7:15 pm
Kim Mantel-Schat
We are praying daily for your whole family. May God provide you with all that you need to get through this. I think of the stories in the Bible where people brought their loved ones to Jesus and experienced such miraculous healing. The prayers of so many are carrying you to Jesus and asking Him to heal you Marisa!
Aaron and Kim Schat
January 15, 2007 at 10:06 pm
Corrie
Hope today was somewhat better. Snow day here – what a treat! No school! No sun but it’s white up here which helps to brighten the day. You are in my thoughts – so much. ANd prayers!
Thought of the day: “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” II Thess. 3:16
Luv ya – cJz
January 16, 2007 at 6:46 am
Carolyn Wedesweiler (deWaard)
Dearest Marisa
This is Carolyn from way back (grade school). My mom just told me today of the recent events in your life. Our family pledges to you and your family to pray for you daily until God answers our prayer. Our God is all too powerful even for something as scary as cancer. And even though I now live across the globe I know that doesn’t matter to God. He loves to hear His children call out to Him from all over. You are precious in His sight Marisa!
Carolyn, Tim and Thomas Wedesweiler
January 16, 2007 at 11:24 am
Keith and Ann Wielink
What a blessing to scan through all the messages sent to you Mendelt and Marissa, to see that prayers are being sent for healing all around the globe. We want to you know that you have been in our prayers daily. We pray first of all for complete healing and then for strength for both of you as you go through chemo and all it’s effects, for peace in your hearts and courage to follow the path God is leading you on. Look out your window today and see the majesty of God and know that this God loves you and can heal you. “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health” 3 John 2 Yours in Christ Keith and Ann
January 16, 2007 at 5:47 pm
Rebecca Lindeboom
Dear Mr & Mrs. Hoekstra
I am one of Mr. Hoestra’s choir members. I don’t really know what to say accept that you are in my prayers every day and night and i really hope that your journey gets better.
Hope to hear from you soon, deepest symapthies, Rebecca Lindeboom
January 17, 2007 at 1:03 am
joy
Marisa,
Naps are great, especially when everyone else is taking one. I’ll do my dance of joy after I say hello to my friend Marisa. The kids are in their “big” nap right now so I can focus. (maybe I should not have written that… you might expect something profound from me ….)
I haven’t written yet because there are no words I could say to you about your adventure. The cool thing is when I read other peoples’ comments I can see 2Corinthinians 1:3-7 in action.
The other day I had a “mommy meltdown” (felt as disposable as a diaper) and needed some comfort. God is so Good. Low and behold there was 2 Cor. 1:3 & 4(and my footnote helped me understand it…)God is the God of all comfort, He comforts us so that His comfort overflows so that we can comfort those in ANY trouble with the comfort that we have received from God.
Praying you are feeling comforted…
Joy
January 18, 2007 at 2:50 pm
Kim Teeuwsen
Hi Mendelt, Marisa and kids,
You guys are in our thoughts and prayers. If you ever need help with the kids or anything please call- Vineland’s just down the hill!!! Take care!
Love, Kim, Dennis, Samuel, Leah and Nathan
January 21, 2007 at 11:09 pm
Derek and Heather Maat
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
We were so sad to hear the news about this battle. It has been a while since our paths have crossed but we both remember your smile, Marisa, like it was yesterday that we talked to you. Your smile brings a blast of sunshine into the room. It must be hard to smile some days now and how can we know the pain. But we will add our prayers to the many that increasingly are going up every day. Lean on God’s stength and keep on keeping on. You and your family are so beautiful and the love that this community has for you is so wide. God has a plan for you.
with love from Derek, Heather and our kids
January 23, 2007 at 10:48 pm
jTamming
hey marisa, i’ve been thinking and praying for you this week.
I pray your spirits are lifted by the comfort of Christ.
I hope you feel better and come out with more good days then bad ones.
God bless!
jT
January 24, 2007 at 11:08 am
Henry Lise
Prayed for you yesterday at our staff devotions. Glad to hear you are feeling a little better. Christy made sure I spelled your name correctly before we prayed. That was a loving touch!
Henry
February 19, 2007 at 2:40 pm
Margaret Van der Meulen (Van der Veen)
Marisa and Mendelt
We are saddened to hear the news about you. Wendy told me about it recently. We are thinking about you and praying for you. May God comfort you and your family during this difficult time.
Margaret, Alex and Jacob Van der Meulen
February 20, 2007 at 1:04 pm
Hamilton Midwives: Shirin Aghili, Annita Damsma-Young, Maryanne McDougall, Helen McDonald, Katie Walton, Tonya MacDonald, Angela Reitsma
Marisa and Mendelt and family
We are sorry to hear the news about your sickness. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Take care
All of us at the Hamilton midwives
March 20, 2007 at 5:28 pm
nelle versluis
hi mendelt and marisa,
marisa, you won’t know who i am but mendelt does. i am so sorry to hear about your battle. i have a small idea about what you are going through as we are going through the same thing with my sister. stay strong. with as many people that are praying for you, feel the comfort and strength. i’ve got to say, i’ve never seen your father look better, mendelt. what a great picture. the first christmas that my sister lost her hair, she had a wig that she wore. everyone had to try it on, guys and girls. we had quite a laugh about it, as most of my bothers are going bald. they looked great.
Keep up the fight!
all the best,
nellie versluis
March 20, 2007 at 9:09 pm
Charity
Mr. & Mrs. Hoekstra
Just wanting to let you know that you are still in my familys thoughts and prayers everday and especially mine. Stay strong even though sometimes it may seem hard, just remember that there are so many people praying for you and thinking of you, and with that in mind things might seem a little brighter.
Charity
March 25, 2007 at 2:58 pm
Norm and Florrie Van Dyke
Hello Marisa and Mendelt,
This morning at the Chilliwack CRC we were surprised to see your brother John and his family.
An even greater surprise was to hear of Marisa’s cancer. Our hearts ache for you and we promise to add our prayers to those already keeping your situation in front of God’s throne.
As Angie Fast-Vlaar wrote on her website when she was going through the same experience, “I don’t know how this is all going to turn out, but Jesus is already guiding us through this valley and whatever the outcome we will praise Him.”
We just wish for you all the daily strength and courage to keep on keeping on.
Love, Norm and Florrie Van Dyke
April 3, 2007 at 2:15 am
Norm and Florrie Van Dyke
Beste Mendelt and Marisa,
Just to let you know that your prayer support group is growing. On Sunday the Chilliwack, BC, CRC congregation prayed for Marisa. Pastor Carel Geleynse and his wife, Irene, know Marisa from their time in the Hamilton area. They and all of us are very concerned and are praying for a miracle of grace.
Our daughters, Pat and Michelle, who live in Niagara Falls, are also getting their small groups in their churches to pray for God’s mercy.
As you go through this next ordeal on Tuesday, our thoughts and prayers, along with those of many others, will surround you.
Beside me on the wall hangs a poster showing a mountain with clouds partially covering it. Its words are: “Even when mists of confusion seem to hide the face of God, we are never hidden from His love.”
You are all safe in the arms of Jesus.
Love, Norm and Florrie Van Dyke
Chilliwack, BC
May 3, 2007 at 11:46 am
DORENE
Mendelt and Marissa;
This is the Day the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it Today we rejoice for you and with you!!
God bless, Dorene and Charity
June 8, 2007 at 9:51 pm
Charity
Continuous prayers for your family. Have you checked the mail lately 😉
Always in my thoughts and prayers
Charity
June 20, 2007 at 4:37 pm
Charity
Continuous thoughts and prayers, i hope you are enjoying the warm weather.
Charity
September 5, 2007 at 10:08 am
Henry Lise
Marisa
I understand the chemo is not working as hoped. That must be very disappointing. We prayed for you at our staff devotions yesterday. I sure hope that “medicine: can dig a little deeper! I can’t imagine what you must be going through. I wish I could tell you the meaning of all this but I just don’t know. Having people praying for you and thinking about you must give you strength. You continue to be in our thoughts.
God bless
Henry Lise
October 13, 2007 at 1:08 pm
charity
Continuous prayers are still with you from my family to yours. We really miss you as a choir director its a real treat when you do come and direct. I dont think that i have ever seen a son and a dad so much alike.
God Bless
Charity
November 2, 2007 at 8:56 pm
Nicole
marisa and family.
u continue to be in my prayers!!…