You may remember that a number of weeks ago Mendelt asked about t-shirt printing. Well soon after Mendelt made some t-shirts. They said
If you have cancer, I have cancer.
. –Jesus–
The results are in. Jesus’ cancer grew and spread again.
Today has been a punch in the face for us again. Our oncologist said that because the cancer has spread and grown again, chemotherapy is not an option at this point.
We sat at the top of the Hamilton mountain today to cry, pray and grow. I don’t know what else to say except that I don’t know how we got from diagnosis day (december 20) to today (august 30). It must be a peace that is inexplainable. A peace that is something that can’t be understood.
But it still hurts like crazy.
The next step is to wait for a couple of new ‘clinical trial’ doctors to call us. One is going to try to do some sort of something to the liver to make the blood stop flowing to the tumors and thus temporarily stop them from growing. Another doctor is going to call us and then discuss options. And then we go from there.
I’m not willing to accept the fact that this is going to get me. I still have too much life to live and I don’t feel like I’m done living it. I admit, I don’t understand why all our prayers have gone seemingly unanswered and I confess that I’m not so ready to be a martyr for this cause. I don’t understand why God would not let me live my life here on earth that He has so abundantly blessed me with. All these questions will get answered someday–it’s just so hard to wait. BUT, until then, we will keep living our lives one day at a time. The sun is still shining brightly and our kids are still as great as ever. We love them so much.
We continue to continue.
MaV and MdH
Life 
136 comments
Comments feed for this article
August 30, 2007 at 4:44 pm
mendelt en willy tilllema
Dearr all,
We feel so sad for you and our family, so far away.
A lot of strenght we wish for all of you.
You all are in our thoughts.
Love and dear greetings,
Mendelt en Willy.
August 30, 2007 at 4:49 pm
Dani Bless
hey guys, that is a great t shirt….
thinking and praying for you all and will continue to do so!!!
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…Proverbs 3:5
I am MORE than sure this verse is something you have been practicing regularly, but it came to my head as I was writing….
August 30, 2007 at 4:51 pm
Cynthia Chhina
Dear Mendelt and Marisa,
I came home from work today and read your most recent post with tears. You hope, you pray, you fight, you love your family and friends with such joy and beauty, and yet in spite of it all, this is the path your life takes. And I don’t begin to understand, nor do I ever expect to understand until a new heaven and earth are ours, but this I do know, you and your family are a miracle and your life is inconcievably difficult right now, and I will pray and pray and pray, and will hold up you and your children as well as your extended family and friends. Through all of this I hope you continue to feel God with you, and to know how much you are loved!!!!
Holding you in my heart, Cynthia
August 30, 2007 at 5:00 pm
sherri de graaf
Mendelt ,Marisa and family
This morning I reread some of the enteries and I began to well up realizing how much today would mean to you. I cannot express to you how so sorry I am that the results were not good. Waiting is exhausting and torturous.
I have always been troubled and angry when I hear about parents who become ill when they have not finished their job raising their children. Why are we blessed with them only to fear that we may not be able to see them grow. I don’t understand .
I cry with you today and I am at such a loss for words. I truly find your strength amazing. Your children are so beautiful as is the love you have for them and each other. Keep fighting. Thinking of you.
Sherri
August 30, 2007 at 5:10 pm
Linda Smith
Hi guys,
I was away for a few days and rushed down to my computer to catch up on things only to find this very devastating news. Wow. How can this be?? I, too, cannot understand why God has chosen to answer our prayers in this way. I can only keep praying for a miracle and for some kind of comfort and peace for you and your family. Please know that you are loved.
Linda
August 30, 2007 at 5:46 pm
Jen Riebot
I love you marisa.
August 30, 2007 at 6:11 pm
Mandy Sangha
Hi Marisa,
We’ve never met (I don’t think), but I met your husband through my dear friend Paula Sharpe Brouwer many years ago in Vancouver. I came across your page on Facebook today, and felt compelled to send you a message.
I was diagnosed with cancer in 2005, and although our illnesses are likely very different, I understand the feelings that come with this disease. To put it bluntly, it really sucks.
I’m so glad to know that you are surrounded by your friends, family, and your children during this time. My illness has presented itself in peaks and valleys, and prayer and family have done so much to keep me “grounded”, so to speak.
I so admire your strength and tenacity as you go through this journey. You truly are an inspiration, even to those of us who don’t know you. Please know that I am praying for you to overcome this challenge. Take care of yourself,
Mandy
August 30, 2007 at 6:14 pm
Frances
Amelija (7) came up to me as I was frozen here in front of the computer, wondering what I was doing. “I’m thinking of what to write to Tante Marisa and Oom Mendelt”. She thought for a moment and then said, “You should say, ‘I’m sorry that the cancer has spread.'”
I’m sorry that the cancer has spread.
This sucks, but God understands. Peace be still, lieve stumpers.
August 30, 2007 at 6:24 pm
Grace & Norm
God bless you, everyone! I’m sharing in your tears as I write this – I was so hopeful – God bless your indomitable spirit – live the life that God continues to give you each day, draw strength from your family and friends and the giver of each breath you are given – it sounds easier than it is – our hearts ache for you . . cancer is lousy! You are loved.
August 30, 2007 at 6:29 pm
Chris & Cheri
We’ve read and re-read this entry. We really really thought today was going to be different. Indeed this is difficult to understand.
Your response to this news is amazing…and we’re right with you. Our arms are around you and we will continue the fight, continue to pray, and continue to try to comprehend. peace and love.
August 30, 2007 at 6:41 pm
Lani Harris
Dear Mendelt and Marisa,
I am crying with you, hurting with you. You are both deep in my thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Lani H.
August 30, 2007 at 6:54 pm
Harold & Robin
I’m sorry to hear that things have spread so far.
How disheartening for you and your family.
We will continue to pray for God’s presence and love to give you strength.
We will continue to pray that God will be glorified in your life.
We will continue to ask for a miracle of healing.
We have seen both miracles and disappointments in our family, but we have NEVER seen God abandon his people.
We believe that will be your experience too.
Blessings,
H&R CRSIA W
August 30, 2007 at 6:59 pm
Ben & Danyse
We are sharing a portion of your sadness and tears and frustration and anger at this news, and are praying for strength and hope and healing for you.
August 30, 2007 at 7:01 pm
LuAnn Westerhuis
Marisa and Mendelt,
A friend here in Surrey, BC just alerted me to your last posting. Although we don’t know each other all that well ( I worked with Marisa at FVCHS yaers ago), I can relate to the disappointment, anxiety, and questions since I too am a cancer patient. There are many people here in BC walking this journey with you. Your family is often mentoned in the congregational prayers at our church. And we will pray without ceasing. We also will continue to continue. LuAnn
August 30, 2007 at 7:11 pm
everydaymiracle
Marissa,
I am so sorry. What a wonder that the blood of Christ can unite two women who have never met, so far apart but I am weeping with your results. I don’t have answers either but I will pray for you. I will pray and pray and pray.
May tonight be the night when our Savior returns and calls us all home. In a moment, you would be made whole and we would have the chance to get to know each other for eternity.
With John, my heart cries out, “Lord Jesus, come quickly.”
Christ’s Peace,
Sherri
August 30, 2007 at 7:16 pm
Mark & Laura Bassie
Dearest friends:
How my heart aches for you. I really don’t know what to say.
We are crying, praying and growing with you.
I’m awed by the strength God has given to you through this time.
Yes the Son is still shining brightly! Praying that the Son will shine brightly on your faces and fill you with His incredible warmth, love, peace and joy despite all you are going through.
Will be praying that the ‘clinical trial’ doctors will have something effective “up their sleeves”.
I’m still imagining a day when the doctors say you are cancer free!
We love you all so very much!
Mark, Laura, Niesje, Sierra, Summer and Connor
xoxo
August 30, 2007 at 7:18 pm
Spencer Tamming
Hey guys. I’m praying for you guys and the kids. Hope you have a good day!
love,
Spencer
August 30, 2007 at 8:03 pm
James and Jen Van Gurp
Dear Mendelt and Marisa,
Our hearts are broken for you guys right now and we pray that it may be in the Lords will that you will be healed. May the Lord continue to give you the peace that passes all understanding.
Love the Van Gurps
August 30, 2007 at 8:11 pm
Wilma Ipema
Thank you for your blog! I have been following it since the beginning and have been inspired by your courage and strength. You and the kids have been in our thoughts and prayers.
Today’s news just made me want to cry along with you!
Keep the faith – your journey on earth is not over.
We will keep praying (pleading) with God for the miracle of healing in Marissa’s body.
Please know that we continue to continue along with you!!!
The Ipemas
August 30, 2007 at 8:27 pm
Rachel Cook
Marisa and Mendelt,
Rachel and I are cut so deeply by the results. Why would Jesus choose to have cancer? We have no answer to this. But, we pray and we join you in still choosing to believe in life, Marisa. We love you all so much, and we wait for a time to see you again in person.
August 30, 2007 at 8:33 pm
Kimberly Dykstra
I don’t know the “right” words to say. I don’t know how it is to feel the feelings your are dealing with. I don’t know why you are going through this. but I know Jesus hears every prayer lifted up to him. I know that everyday there are people who get down on their knees and pray for you. I know that Jesus heals. And I know that God is capable of BIG things.
As i read your entry today, this song came to me.
I believe in Jesus
I believe He is the Son of God
I believe He died and rose again
I believe He paid for us all
And I believe He’s here now
Standing in our midst
Here with the power to heal now
And the grace to forgive
still praying,
kim
August 30, 2007 at 8:40 pm
Joanne
We pray for strength for you and your families as you continue to continue.
August 30, 2007 at 8:52 pm
Susanne
Dearest Marisa and Mendelt,
There are no words.
I grieve and cry out with you.
I pray that the clinical trials doctors will help to shrink the tumors.
Dear God, continue to give Marisa and Mendelt the peace that passes all understanding. Rain down your healing power on Marisa. Amen.
with much love and many prayers,
Susanne
August 30, 2007 at 9:44 pm
Neeke
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
It’s 4.30 in the night, here in Holland. I couldn’t sleep, I was constantly thinking of you and prayed a lot. So I decided to check the blog, hoping for good news. Now I am sitting behind my computer, crying. I feel so sad, thinking of you. I don’t know what to say, but I want you to know that you are in my heart! I keep on praying for a miracle!
I love you both! Please hold on!
Neeke
August 30, 2007 at 10:30 pm
Joanne Guetter
Dear Marisa and Mendelt
I was catching up on your blog today and cannot imagine what you must be feeling right now.
There’s a chorus in a song by Margaret Becker that comes to mind –
‘God’s not afraid of your honesty,
He can heal your heart if you speak honestly.
Humble sorrow and an honest cry
He will not pass by.’
I pray that you will know that He hears your questions, understands your anger, feels your pain and fights with you when Satan tries to take advantage of you in your weak moments.
I will also continue to pray for a miracle – because even though I can’t imagine your feeings today I could see clearly the picture Mendelt painted the other day.
peace and love,
Joanne
August 30, 2007 at 10:37 pm
henri
How my heart aches for the both of you. I want to throw something but I know that will only help momentarily. Your body may be weak but your faith is strong. God sees that and knows that. Marisa, I love you. I am so lucky to have you as a sister-in-law. I will pray for you always.
With love, Henri
August 30, 2007 at 11:00 pm
Eckersleys
Hi Mendelt & Marisa, Just wanted to let you know that we continue to pray. We are asking that our imagination of healing here on earth will be reality. Eckersleys
August 30, 2007 at 11:05 pm
Fred and Helen Reitsma
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
We pray that God will give you the strength to live each day. Really living life with your children and your dear parents and siblings.
Each day is a gift from God, We pray that you can continue to live them in thankfulness to Him.
Please God, allow Marisa and Mendelt to continue to place all their burdens at the foot of the cross. Uphold them and give them a restful night and sleep to strengthen them for another day. Sustain them through the uncertain days ahead and bring renewed health and strength to Marisa through the gifted clincial trails doctors and your almighty healing power. You are so strong and powerful and you can do it. Listen to our petitions and hear our pleas. Amen
All our love, Helen and Fred
August 30, 2007 at 11:11 pm
Sam & Leona
Dear Mendelt & Marisa,
We are praying for your family. We pray that God will heal Marisa fully. We pray that God will give you both strength. Love Sam & Leona
August 30, 2007 at 11:13 pm
Robyn Lamb
I am crying with you. I was loving this post and then wham!
Know that you’re loved!! And we are still praying!
August 30, 2007 at 11:21 pm
Julie Pilling (Oosterloo)
Dear Satan.
You have not won…you have only served to strengthen our resolve!! We will not be discouraged! We’ll tell even more people about our friends Marisa and Mendelt. More prayers will go up to God on their behalf. Did you think that we would give up? Did you think we would throw our hands up and say “Well…we tried…I guess it’s not working…our God isn’t listening” ? NO!! Never….we continue on in our fight against this horrible disease with the only weapon we seem to have left, the one you know absolutely nothing about…HOPE!!
Take that!
My God is bigger than cancer.
My God is bigger than you.
My God has conquered Death
My God has conquered you!!
I reapeat…YOU HAVE NOT WON!!
August 30, 2007 at 11:46 pm
Dee
((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Marisa)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Mendelt))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((And those precious little babes))))))))))))))))))))))))
Our Lord Jesus holds you tight in his arms.
Oh sweety – no words sufficaint
My heart aches – I cry with you
I am not skilled to understand
What God has willed, what God has planned
I only know at his right hand
Stands one who is my savior …
My savior loves, my savior lives
My savior’s always there for me
My God he was, my God he is
My God he’s always gonna be … lyrics by Aaron Shust
Why Lord??? This servent of yours???
Such strength has brought you this far Marisa and Mendelt and much more strenghth will bring you through the days ahead – strength our Lord gives.
Phil.4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Rom.8:5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.
[6] For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace
Phil4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
I pray there be many thing that make you giggle this weekend. My thoughts and prayers go out for you. Love you Dee
🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂
And if I could make it snow I’d make a snowman for you. ********** Just remember Big Circles. 😉
August 31, 2007 at 12:29 am
Dan VandenAkker
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
I’m ashamed to admit that I am often too caught up in the business of my own life and do not think about much else. I had to go all the way back to April 30 to find the last time I wrote to you. Please know that I do think of you guys every day. I’m not sure if you know that I work for a tree service company. I drive one of those bucket trucks with a boom that reaches up to 65 feet. Every once in while when I’m tired and in need of a break I like to stand the bucket straight up as high as it will go and just take a look around. It’s usually in those moments that I remember to pray for you. I know God hear’s our prayers no matter where we are, but I’m going to try to remember to send a prayer from 65 feet for you every day. I will try harder because you are my friends and I love you both.
Peace and Strength to you and your family.
Dan
August 31, 2007 at 3:21 am
Wenda en Harry Haasjes
Crying in silence. I don’t know what so say.
Love you!
Wenda
August 31, 2007 at 6:00 am
Jim and Laura Huurman
Dear Marisa, Mendelt, and your beautiful children:
We are so sorry to read about your disappointing news, but God will continue to be your strength and your shield. Our prayers and thoughts are continually going up for you and your family as they support you at this difficult time.
God bless you all.
Christian love,
Jim and Laura Huurman
Ryan, Marisa and Sarah (Members of Trinity CRC)
August 31, 2007 at 6:11 am
Joan
Where there is life there is hope. You have such abundant life therefore you must have abundant hope.
Last night as I talked about my sadness with my husband John, he said God must have a bigger plan. I said what could be bigger than a mother staying with her three young children? Silence. Dear God, please explain.
Marisa, last night you and your liver permeated my dreams, I take this as a sign to continue to continue ….praying. I will.
One day at a time, sweet Jesus, one day at a time.
Tears – hope.
Love, joan
August 31, 2007 at 7:05 am
Harriett
Dear marisa and Mendelt: What can I say other than we weep with you… and continue to pray for you as we do every day. May our God demonstrate one of His wonderful miracles even now and restore you to health.
August 31, 2007 at 7:09 am
Annette and Rob Schreuders
Dear Marisa and Mendelt and family,
Thank you for sharing your difficult news. We are shocked and saddened with you. Now your problems/journey/ struggle seem to continue
BUT GOD doesn’t have problems– HE only has plans!!!!!!!
Somehow keep trusting in Him as you continue to continue and know that during the times that trusting is difficult know that many, many people are praying on your behalf and holding you up to His throne of grace.
We keep praying,( also for the new doctors getting involved) we keep crying, we keep praising God because we all believe together that God is good, all the time.
I don’t think your support has waned though. Prayers continue but sometimes we just don’t know what to write on the blog.
love and prayers and hugs,
annette and rob
steph and mike too
August 31, 2007 at 7:41 am
Bryan and Susanne Zietsma
Marissa and Mendelt
We are so sorry to hear this painful news…it is so hard to take, it so hard to imagine that this is possible…we are praying still, for peace, grace and life. May you feel God’s presence near in the midst of this battle. We love you.
Bryan and Susanne
August 31, 2007 at 8:02 am
Annette
Oh Marisa and Mendelt,
my heart is aching and my tears are flowing. I was so saddened to read this today.
BUT, on the positive side, clinical trials can do good things! I was on a clinical trial for 10 months that gave me stability (when the regular drugs didn’t).
I will pray for peace and strength and healing
((HUGS)) and much love to you,
Annette
August 31, 2007 at 8:03 am
Samantha Pellegrino
I find it odd how I can weep so deeply for someone I’ve never met. My nine year old and I pray for you every single night. He asks “who’s Marisa?” and I tell him, she’s our sister in Christ and Jesus wants her well. So we pray. And we’ll keep praying and imagining.
God believes in you Marisa.
Samantha P~
August 31, 2007 at 8:36 am
Martha and Steve
Marisa and Mendelt;
We can’t believe it…………….but we continue to be obedient servants and pray, pray, pray. I don’t think there is anything I can say to help you feel better, I really wish there was!!
We love you all,
Martha
August 31, 2007 at 8:46 am
Matt Van Geest
Marisa and Mendelt,
We lit a “Marisa” candle last night as we were talking about you and this news with some friends who were visiting. We love you both, deeply and we are hurt and saddened by this news.
Keep asking the hard questions. And know that we are seeking the answers along with you.
M and E
August 31, 2007 at 9:04 am
The Rempels
I’m so sorry … we are thinking and praying for you and your family.
August 31, 2007 at 9:10 am
Catherine
I’m a friend of Karen C’s and I just heard your story for the first time today. Praying for you and lifting you before the Throne of Grace.
August 31, 2007 at 9:21 am
Diana
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
I have continued to read your blog these past weeks and have prayed for miraculous results. While the results were not miraculous, reading the comments made by people here, I am reminded that you both, your whole family, are miracles. They way you are touching people is amazing.
Trying to understand what you are going through is beyond what empathy can provide, but please know that when I look at Randy and my girls, I say a prayer for you, Marisa.
Diana Zondag
August 31, 2007 at 9:23 am
Kevin van der Laan
This is all such a shock. I had no idea about any of this – not your cancer or Darren’s wife (I followed the link on your homepage) or any of it. Rest assured we will be praying here.
Blessings,
Kevin, Elizabeth, Esther, Joseph, Hannah, Izaak, and Anneliese
Tianjin, China
August 31, 2007 at 9:34 am
diane
Dear M&M, & ZJZ,
As everybody else who is following this blog we grieve with you over the CT results, and will be praying for God’s healing to take over the clinical trials. (Will you have to go out of town for that?) Thank you for sharing your struggles through this blog, your hills and valleys you have encountered.
2Tim 1;12 “For I know whom I have believed, and am sure that He is able to gaurd until that Day, what has been entrusted to me.”
In Christian Love, Randy and Diane
August 31, 2007 at 9:37 am
Veronica
Hi
Don’t really know what to say except that we will pray that God will give you all that you need to continue…..
love Veronica
August 31, 2007 at 10:56 am
Andrea O'Neill (Clark)
Dear Marisa
I am SOOOOOOOOOOO sorry. Such sad news. Thankyou for being so honest with us about how you are feeling with all of this. You do have so much to live for still and I know that you are frustrated right now but just remember that He is “the stronghold in times of trouble.”
My family and I will continue to pray for you and your family.
Andrea
August 31, 2007 at 10:59 am
Kim Reitsma-VanHaitsma
I keep thinking of the well known verses like “lean not on your own understanding” and “a peace that passes all understanidng” …. but I am so MAD because I don’t understand, and I don’t want this to be true.
The prayers are going up fast and furious. With tears and anger, but with a knowing in the back of my mind that God is the one in control here. I know we as humans and so short sighted, that we can’t possbily know or understand the whole picture. So I am just praying that you will continue to be the beautiful, shining light you have been in all our lives, Marisa, all through this whole nightmare of chemo.
We love you so much. We surround you with it and hope you can feel it today and every day. You have made us love more deeply and experience life more fully. And I am positive that I speak for many many people when I say this.
Be brave, my friends. God has you in His hands.
Kim
August 31, 2007 at 12:55 pm
witham centre
Each day we will continue to pray for you guys harder than the day before.
Witham Centre.
Bill
August 31, 2007 at 1:18 pm
Bas en Hinke
Dear Mendelt and Marisa,
With you in our thoughts…
We love you,
Bas en Hinke
August 31, 2007 at 1:42 pm
Meredith
there are no words that i can find to tell you how sorry I am to hear the news that came today
god bless you and your family
August 31, 2007 at 1:43 pm
Klaas and Tanya
Hey gang,
it took us a day to think of what to say. its very difficult for us to even understand a fraction of your pain but we do feel terrible sick upon hearing the news.
we are praying for strength and peace and healing
August 31, 2007 at 1:49 pm
Gina Taylor
Marissa, I don’t know what to say . . .
August 31, 2007 at 1:52 pm
Johnny
M&M,
I can only imagine how disappointing this news is for you. And yet despite the constant string of bad news, I am amazed and inspired by your attitudes. Just know that we are always there for you, whatever you need. We are constantly praying and thinking of you guys.
Peace and love,
John & family
August 31, 2007 at 2:10 pm
Kim Teeuwsen
Don’t know what to say except we will continue to pray.
August 31, 2007 at 2:22 pm
Douwe and Julie
Mendalt and Marissa
not knowing the words to say, We want you to know that are crying a long with you and sharing in your pain. Your attitude and drive is inspirational! Please know that you are in our daily prayers, when we wake up, go about our day, and before we go to sleep. May God continue to give you “communion of saints” and May God continue to give your family the strength that you need. Praying for strength and healing
Love Douwe, Juls and Shannon
August 31, 2007 at 2:36 pm
Christine Schilstra
Marisa and Mendelt,
Like Klaas and Tanya, I read your news and didn’t know how to respond….and so I did not. I guess that’s not altogether true…my response was anger!!! I am thankful for Julie Pilling’s “Dear Satan” response. I’ll channel my anger and keep banging on God’s door lifting up all of you.
God’s peace,
Christine and Wayne
August 31, 2007 at 2:38 pm
Sarah
There is a beautifully written post called ‘Perspective on Hope’ -August 31st -in the ‘Everyday Miracle’ blog under Friends of Marisa….
August 31, 2007 at 3:06 pm
Jacoba Doris
We are really sorry about the news. We are always thinking and praying for you.
August 31, 2007 at 3:18 pm
Bev Boden
Marisa/Mendelt and Family,
I am so sorry to hear your discouraging news, it is difficult to know what to say or give other than more prayers!! We will continue to pray for peace, understanding and healing.
May God Bless You,
Bev
August 31, 2007 at 3:24 pm
Christina Hogeterp Vugteveen
Words have never been my strong point, but know that you have so very many people continuing to uphold you in prayer and surround you with embraces from all over the place. Even if the words dont come, the heartache, the prayers, the thoughts, the tears are right there with you.
We are praying for peace and miracles.
christina
August 31, 2007 at 3:26 pm
Jacquie and Kevin DeRaaf
Marissa and Mendelt,
I’ve been following your blog for months – passed along through many mutual connections. I’ve been deeply touched by your journey and your faith and the beautiful, honest poignancy with which you share your lives. I wept today for you – along with those who know you best, and I’m sure with many others who feel like we know you even though we’ve never met. I’ve never posted a comment before, but felt like today was a day that you needed to hear from every corner. We are praying too, for peace and courage…and healing.
Your sister in Christ,
Jacquie DeRaaf (Burlington)
August 31, 2007 at 3:28 pm
Brandy DeVries
Mendelt & Marisa
I check your blog regularly and fail to respond to your inspiring words of honesty, encouragement and strength due to my lack of knowing what to say. I’m sorry! I wish there was something I could say or do that would take away all the pain you must be feeling right now. I’m sorry! My heart goes out to you, but I will not stop praying for healing and strength. All of us at work are praying too. You are surrounded with love and prayers always.
Peace and love,
Brandy
August 31, 2007 at 3:43 pm
Jessica
We weep with you.
Like you, we cannot understand it.
And we will continue to pray that it be God’s will that he heals you Marisa.
Peace,
Jessica Vanden Brink
August 31, 2007 at 3:57 pm
Jill
Hi there, I am a friend of Karen C’s.
Thinking of you.
August 31, 2007 at 4:07 pm
Jan Gerzinus and Margreet
Dear Mendelt and Marisa,
We cannot imagine what it feels like, but even we are shocked.
Hoping that you get the courage and strength to move on. You are in our thoughts.
Love,
Jan Gerzinus and Margreet
August 31, 2007 at 4:16 pm
Jeff and Melissa Tigchelaar
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
Our hearts break, thinking about the sad news you received! I can’t imagine what you’re both feeling right now, the frustration of it all…It’s so hard to make sense of it… Please know that we constantly keep you in our prayers! All I can think of right now is that God is able to do immeasurably more than we can imagine!
Melissa
August 31, 2007 at 4:16 pm
Andre V.
If you have cancer, we all have cancer
much luv
August 31, 2007 at 4:18 pm
Deb
Dear Marisa and Mendelt;
I have been praying, no, pleading with God for you especially the last few days. I so desparately wish I could have read different news today. God may not be using the chemo to heal you…but that doesn’t mean he can’t heal you!!! He certainly has already given you amazing strength, patience and determination. I am discouraged along with you, but encouraged by you.
love Deb
August 31, 2007 at 4:20 pm
Jen Riebot
when i first read the blog all i could say was i love you, because i had no clue what i would want to hear if i were you guys, except for.. how much i love you.. because i really do : )
i have not prayed for anyone in the last 9 months more then i’ve prayed for you guys..
i have not hurt so deep when i read something then in november, and yesterday..
i have not felt such an urge to help someone, or to do something, anything for a family..
i have not cried like i did before i fell asleep last night, in quite some time..
i have not looked to scripture for some sort of explanation in a long time either..
i have not begged God, every chance i get to heal you..
i have not hoped this much..
*God, heal Marisa, it’s that simple.
peace and love*
August 31, 2007 at 4:36 pm
Kim Reitsma-VanHaitsma
Just reading through all the responses….
Amen, Julie Pilling.
August 31, 2007 at 5:49 pm
G & R
Hi Marisa and Mendelt!! Thanks for being open with us once again!! Must be so difficult to share when you get results such as this!! I don’t know what to say…..but I am so sorry and soooo sad!! Somethings are so hard to understand!! But I do continue to pray for you and may you know how loved and special you are to us ALLLLLL!! Love and prayers Rick and Gerda
August 31, 2007 at 5:49 pm
Mem Hoekstra
Isaiah 49:16:
“See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands”.
Imagine that!
August 31, 2007 at 5:49 pm
Roslyn
Marissa, Mendelt and Family,
Continued determination for you all.
Peace and love,
Roslyn
August 31, 2007 at 6:33 pm
Mike & Sheri
We can’t even express how disappointed we felt for you and can’t begin to comprehend what you feel like, how raw your emotions must be, how heavy the burden. We know what we feel like and it feels like a tonne of bricks landing on top of oneself. But we’re here … all of your family, friends and people you’ve touched one way or another, we’re holding those bricks up, we’re praying without ceasing. God grant you strength and peace and may God grant the rest of just as much strength and patience as we help you fight this cancer!! I resound what Sandra Eckersley said “we pray that our imagination of healing will be God’s reality”!!
Keep smiling Hoekstra family!!!
Mike, Sheri and Matthew
August 31, 2007 at 6:41 pm
Helen
This news is so sad and so hard to understand. Remember that God always has a plan so beyond what we can imagine.
You are in our thoughts
You are in our prayers
Helen Opthof
August 31, 2007 at 7:27 pm
Nate and Marcelle
sheesh.
So sorry to read about your news. Gotta love that Hamilton mountain view, eh? May your mountaintop prayers be answered, may you continue to see the goodness of God, may you continue to see the sunshine. We’ll continue to pray with you: for healing this side of heaven.
Nate and Marcelle Farr
August 31, 2007 at 7:28 pm
Andre V.
hey guys..i’m still prayin for u but i think u really need to consider (somehow) checking out facebook and your support group…you’ll b amazed at the amount of support ur gettin from young kids…the total members so far is 245!!!!
much luv
Andre
August 31, 2007 at 7:51 pm
Norm and Florrie Van Dyke
Dear Mendelt and Marisa,
“Van het concert des levens heeft niemand een progamme.” So proclaims a small wall hanging in Dutch in our new home in Stevensville. If we knew in advance what awaits us …. But we don’t and God in His wisdom knows that to be best. So we deal with life’s happenings the best we can, rejoicing in the good times and trusting that our Father in heaven will provide the daily strength to deal with the tough stuff.
And your family is sure dealing with some really tough stuff now. We admire your tenacity, your honesty, your resolve to keep on trying and hoping and praying – even now.
We promise to continue to lift you up in prayer.
Love, Norm and Florrie
August 31, 2007 at 7:52 pm
christina torch
you are in my prayers.
August 31, 2007 at 8:32 pm
Chris and Heather Wiersma
Our hearts go out to you. We feel sick about this news. I’m not sure you understand how much you inspire us (and obviously so many others as well…) as we follow your journey via this blog. You are troopers. God will take care of you. We continue to pray.
August 31, 2007 at 8:39 pm
Marcia Cota(deBoer)
I don’t even know what to say…i am sure that i am one of many who read your last post with tears streaming down my face….it’s not fair….was all i could think….her children, her husband, her parents….they all need her…..
As a mother of 3 young ones – I can’t imagine what you are going through….I am constantly amazed and in awe of your faith, your love…for God and eachother….
If all of our love could cure you – you would be healed instantly:) —
We continue to pray…knowing that God is our Healer…
Love,
Marcia
August 31, 2007 at 8:45 pm
Sonya Eikelboom
Marisa,
Since we missed you last weekend, I’m sending you a long-distance hug. Hold tight, dear girl…and rest in Jesus’ arms.
Love, Sonya
August 31, 2007 at 9:03 pm
Leanne Riebot
You are in my prayers, and i wont stop praying for you,
You have taught me so much about being a strong Christian on this blog, your faith amazes me everyday.
I want you to know that both of you, are my#1 role models.
I hope i can grow up to have at least half of the faith and courage that you have.
I’m praying for your family randomly during the day, whenever i think about you, i pray. Even if its at the most random time, I pray and pray and pray for you.
Much love,
Leanne Riebot*
August 31, 2007 at 9:03 pm
Lisa Gilmour
Thinking of you and your family.
August 31, 2007 at 9:05 pm
Rebecca Stieva
Mr. Hoekstra and Marisa,
I don’t know what really to say except that my heart aches for you and that my family and I are constantly praying for healing for Marisa.
Rebecca
August 31, 2007 at 9:09 pm
Susan
Dear God, send your power.
May yours be the victory and glory in Marisa’s life.
Amen.
Strength,
Susan
August 31, 2007 at 9:58 pm
Samantha Aantjes
*And even though it all went wrong..I stand before the Lord of song*
Right now, you must be standing before Him asking why, because I know I am. I’ve been thinking about you guys alot lately, and I’ve come to a brief conclusion. Maybe Jesus gave you cancer so he could unite the community of saints. How else could He unite SO MANY PEOPLE, in virtually such a short amount of time, to pray, and to love and care for others? Maybe God is bringing his hand into your life in the form of cancer, which to us is very terrible, but will end up preparing us for bigger battles? Whatever reason God has for bringing you this much pain, we will never know, but you know that every single one of the people that comment on here, read the blogs, and hear about it from others love you. We are all pulling for you, and pulling includes prayer. ALWAYS..ALWAYS praying, Sam
September 1, 2007 at 12:52 am
Tina Buikema
hi Marisa and family…i am a really good friend of sherri groot’s sister, ann. she shared your “experience” with me. while i do not you or your family personally, i am, however, a fellow believer in Christ and His miracles! please know that i will pray with the faith that He does not forsake His children. what a testimony – thankyou.
September 1, 2007 at 3:58 am
Josh VanDyke
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
The news is not what I was hoping to hear but the Lord works in mysterious ways and I remain optomistic that good things are still too come.
I care for and love you both very much!!
September 1, 2007 at 8:58 am
Rose Tamming
Dear Dee, did they ever giggle this weekend…Gary and I were very blessed to spend Friday evening with our wonderful friends, Mendelt and Marisa…and we did a lot of laughing! …about hedgehog mushrooms, sharks, tomatoes with holes in them, nine and a half toe fame, matchmaking, lovemaking, dinner on Labour Day and so much more…thanks for that prayer; God is good!
Marisa, you are a new miracle waiting to happen! Your indomitable spirit testifies to God at work in you in a really cool way! We love you guys so much!
RT
September 1, 2007 at 9:19 am
Keith and Ann Wielink
Dear Marisa, Mendelt and kids. So sorry to hear that once again the news is not good and you find yourselves back in the “valley” of life. We continue to pray for the miracle of healing and God’s Spirit to give you the strength, peace and power to continue on in your earthly journey. I came across this verse several years ago and wrote it in the cover of my Bible. It’s a great verse to say over and over especially when we are discouraged or afraid or just need the reassurance of God’s almightly presence in our lives.
The light of God surrounds me
The love of God enfolds me
The power of God protects me
The presence of God watches over me
Wherever I am, GOD IS!
Blessings and peace. Keith and Ann
September 1, 2007 at 9:43 am
Dick en Anky Tillema
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
We are so sorry about the bad news and we are crying with you.
We keep on praying for hope and peace for you and the children and your family.
Dear greetings,
Dick en Anky
September 1, 2007 at 10:07 am
Holland
Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift!
September 1, 2007 at 10:11 am
Dennis & Angela Sluys
We have been and will continue to pray for you and your family. May God give you strength, peace and healing.
September 1, 2007 at 11:03 am
Monique
I woke up this morning to 92 comments on your blog and thought I’m going to make it 93. I am truly amazed at how many people are touched by the both of you. I checked out “Support Mendelt and Marisa” on Facebook and there are 263 members!
When I was visiting this summer I commented to Mendelt about the many friends Marisa has…and not just acquaintances…friends who love and adore her. And Mendelt said, “ya, but look at her…don’t you want to hang out with her?” Ya, I do.
We miss you both dearly. Matheo still sends up his full blast prayers to heaven every night. “And be with Tante Meesa.” (Ruff ruff)
Peace and lots and lots of love.
September 1, 2007 at 12:13 pm
sandra
Hi Marisa,
We’ve been camping the last week and it was very dificult to be away from internet access only because I so wanted to know what was up with you, knowing this was a big week. And rushing to the computer when we got home. And grieving. If only all the tears wept for you this past week could bouy you up, carry you through, ease your hurt. Hold tightly to His hand Marisa – he know where he’s going. I love you.
Sandra
September 1, 2007 at 1:00 pm
David & Andrea Wiersma
Dear Mendelt & Marisa,
We are aching with you and pray that you will be surrounded by God’s peace today. We are praying for a miracle!!! God has a plan.
September 1, 2007 at 2:43 pm
Kathryn Ringelberg
Ms Vanderveen,
my heart goes out to you and your family, but God has a plan in mind and His plan is the best one..somtimes we dont know what He has in store for us but He knows what He is doing…trust in Him
I’m sure that God has a good plan laid out for you, and just know that whatever the circumstances God, and the people that God has given to you are there to help!
Stay strong,
♥Kathryn♥
September 1, 2007 at 5:35 pm
Henk and Derna
Dear fam,
So sad to read about the bad news.
Still the doctors try to do the best they can and you both even do more than that !
We keep on praying for a miracle.
Miracles do happen !!
Love and peace.
A big hug, Oom Henk and Tante Derna
September 1, 2007 at 7:12 pm
Carolyn Vanderzwaag
Hello – like a lot of others, I’ve been following your blog for a long time but never commented….I guess figuring since I don’t really know you personally and am never sure what to say. Anyway, this latest news really sucks and I felt the need to tell you how much we think and pray for you over here. Sometimes I can hardly look at my daughter without thinking of you and your children and offering up a prayer for peace and healing – so that is a lot of prayers going up for you during the day! We will keep praying.
Carolyn Vanderzwaag (nee Kingma)
September 1, 2007 at 8:39 pm
scott and val
We’re so sorry to hear the news. We’re sitting here together thinking about what to write and are struggling for words.
We don’t know what to do other than pray. We’ll pray that the peace that got you from diagnosis to today will be all the more abundant now.
We think you are amazing for focussing in on the blessings of your children, your marriage, the community of saints… It is our hope and prayer that God will bless you so much more.
Scott and Val
September 1, 2007 at 10:56 pm
Susanne
Marisa, you shine so brightly.
I hope you have a restful sleep tonight.
Take courage, you are so loved.
Susanne
September 1, 2007 at 11:29 pm
Jen Riebot
*miracle drug..
I want to trip inside your head
Spend the day there…
To hear the things you haven’t said
And see what you might see
I want to hear you when you call
Do you feel anything at all?
I want to see your thoughts take shape
And walk right out
Freedom has a scent
Like the top of a new born baby’s head
The songs are in your eyes
I see them when you smile
I’ve had enough I’m not giving up
On a miracle drug
Of science and the human heart
There is no limit
There is no failure here sweetheart
Just when you quit…
I am you and you are mine
Love makes nonsense of space
And time… will disappear
Love and logic keep us clear
Reason is on our side, love…
The songs are in your eyes
I see them when you smile
I’ve had enough of romantic love
I’d give it up, yeah, I’d give it up
For a miracle, a miracle drug, a miracle drug
God I need your help tonight
Beneath the noise
Below the din
I hear a voice
It’s whispering
In science and in medicine
“I was a stranger
You took me in”
The songs are in your eyes
I see them when you smile
I’ve had enough of romantic love
I’d give it up, yeah, I’d give it up
For a miracle, miracle drug
Miracle, miracle drug..
— Mendelt sang this song at an assembly once, makes me cry everytime i listen to it.. Bono must’ve wrote this one for you guys.
September 2, 2007 at 12:13 am
abootie
Marisa,
My class and I in Nicaragua will be praying for you. God is the GREAT physician and he is a miracle maker.
Aimee (Faye’s sister)
September 2, 2007 at 11:31 am
Julie Vos
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
I was away this past week and I just learned about your news via our church bulletin. I was hoping to slip away upstairs today and look at your blog as I knew your test results were last week. I read the bulletin before I read your blog and immediately, I had to turn on the computer and read the words you had written. Your words and your feelings are so personal, so heartfelt. I hope that my words can be so personal and so heartfelt. I have never met you, yet I am filled with tears for you. I feel so sad for you! I too question what is going on here. I too think that you are such a beautiful witness to our Saviour and Lord. Why is this happening?
I can’t answer that question and really I guess I don’t need to answer that question. What I need to do is pray fervently for you and plead with our dear Lord to grant you healing in a miraculous way. Oh, Marisa! I think about you often and I will be thinking about you even more now! But, not just thinking…we will be praying for you TRUSTING that God will comfort you, wrap His loving arms around you, and give you peace and patience that ONLY He can give!
I was reading the comments that other blogger have posted, and I came across the one from Rachel Oussoren. Rachel and I were roomates at Redeemer and her husband, Hans and I both grew up in Peterborough. If you have the strength, I think it would be a blessing for you to talk with Hans on the phone. He has a deep faith in God and he is a wonderful source of encouragement.
I do not know Catharina Bastian, but I do remember that she went to Redeemer and she really struggled with cancer. I remember that her situation looked rather ‘grim’, but something happened that really changed her health. I can’t remember where I heard the story, maybe Church in the Box at Redeemer, but I remember thinking, WOW, what a miracle! I think she is from the Peterborough area, so if you would like her contact info., I can certainly try to find out!
My husband is making lunch and our daughter is just up from her nap, so I should go get her!
I will make it a priority to not only read your blogs but post blogs more regularly too, and I will especially pray for you daily!
You are a beautiful woman, Marisa! God has you in the palm of His hand and He is not letting go! He is right there beside you, leading you and guiding you!
You are a wonderful husband, Mendelt, a true source of strength for Marisa! God has you too in the palm of His hand and he is not letting you go! He is right there beside you, leading you and guiding you!
May God bless you with a wonderful Sabbath day together as a family! May He bless you with strength, hope and comfort for the coming week!
With love,
Julie and Henry Vos
September 2, 2007 at 1:33 pm
Vince VanderVeen
I love people who write comments.
I had just written a letter to send to you, oblivious to your latest news. Then I went to read this latest update, and then my letter seemed…I don’t know…frivolous? I’m still sending it don’t worry, because I know you’ll appreciate it.
Thanks to Rose for telling me (us) about all the giggling and laughing that they did. Marisa has one of the readiest laughs of anyone that I know 😉
Count me as one who continues to pray,
Vince
September 2, 2007 at 2:13 pm
Liz Schouwstra
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
We just got home from a youth camp and after reading your e-mail I had to think of the key verse. Our hearts go out to you and the family at this time and we know that it is only by God’s grace that you are able to write the words you do. The key verse was from Hebrews 12:1-2 where it reads in part “…Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses …..let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.” Often we think that this great cloud of witnesses is limited to heaven, but right now, here all around you are witnesses who are surrounded you in prayer, love, and faith. We are witnesses to God’s mysterious ways and means, His faithfulness, His peace, His love, His compassion, His mercy that is new every morning. And we are also witnesses to your continued zeal for the Lord, your testimony of praise and your desire to live for the Lord and for your family despite the pain and tiredness. Since Jesus is the author of our faith and the perfector of it through trials and joys, we are able to continue to fix our eyes on Jesus. We pray that despite everything, you will keep your eyes on Jesus where there is hope for the future.
Love,
Brian, Liz, Jon, Ben, Josh, and Jeremy
September 2, 2007 at 3:16 pm
Nancy
Lord, I like many others am without words and my heart breaks for this family. I am so thankful, however, that when we are without words and have only sighs to express, that you say in Rom 8:26-27 that the Spirit, with groans that words cannot express, intercedes for us. You are a God of miracles and a God who heals and we pray for that healing power for Marisa’s body now. May your presence and peace abide deeply within and about them in these days.
September 2, 2007 at 7:04 pm
Erica Gysbers
Marisa and Mendelt,
You probably don’t know who I am (friend of Klaas and Tanya), but I have been following your blog for some time. I am so saddened to hear of this difficult news, but continue to pray for peace for your family, and also that God will use the next type of treatment for healing. We recently heard an amazing sermon about healing, and that God wants us to cry out to him and ask for what we want, so we will continue to do this on your behalf.
Know that you are being prayed for out here in Vancouver!
Erica
September 2, 2007 at 7:22 pm
esther
As I read your latest entry, my heart was heavy. But I continue to look outside at the beautiful sunset and here HIM saying “be still and know that I AM GOD”
Sitting on the Hamilton hill reflecting of the time gone by must have really hurt, but seeing your maker in creatiion gives you that peace you so well described.
Our prayers are with you daily.
love Esther
September 2, 2007 at 9:10 pm
scott and val
today i learned a bit about the “eye of the storm”. Though the storm is raging, in the eye there is quiet, the air is still, and most amazing, the sun can be shining there while darkness is all around. i am prayerfully visualizing your family sitting in the eye of the storm.
love,val
September 2, 2007 at 10:17 pm
Dan Zadorozny
The boys and I continue to pray for your family every night, they are little prayers but we do our best…
September 2, 2007 at 11:15 pm
Brian and Shanna McBay
All may yet be well. This is true. Meanwhile you have the waiting. And while you wait, you still have to go on living. And then, the horrible by-products of anxiety; the incessant, circular movement of the thoughts, even the temptation to keep watch for irrational omens. And one prays; but mainly such prayers as are themselves a form of anguish.
Some people feel guilty about their anxieties and regard them as a defect of faith. I don’t agree at all. They are afflictions, not sins. Like all afflictions, they are, if we can so take them, our share in the Passion of Christ. For the beginning of the Passion is in Gethsemane.
It is clear from many of His sayings that Our Lord had long foreseen His death. He knew what conduct such as His, in a world such as we have made of this, must inevitably lead to. But it is clear that this knowledge must somehow have been withdrawn from Him before he prayed in Gethsemane. He could not, with whatever reservation about the Father’s will, have prayed that the cup might pass and simultaneously know that it would not. Lest any trial incident to humanity should be lacking, the torments of hope – of suspense, anxiety – were at the last moment loosed upon Him – the supposed possibility that, after all, He might, He just conceivably might, be spared the supreme horror. There was precedent. Isaac had been spared: he too at the last moment, he also against all apparent probability. It was not quite impossible…
But for this last hope against hope, and the consequent tumult of the soul, the sweat of blood, perhaps He would not have been very Man. To live in a fully predictable world is not be be a man.
At the end, I know, we are told that an angel appeared ‘comforting’ him. But neither comforting in Sixteenth Century English (nor the Greek equivalent) means ‘consoling’. ‘Strengthening’ is more the word. May not the strengthening have consisted in the renewed certainty – cold comfort this – that the thing must be endured and therefore could be?
We all try to accept with some sort of submission our afflictions when they actually arrive. But the prayer in Gethsemane shows that the preceding anxiety is equally God’s will and equally part of our human destiny. The perfect Man experienced it. And the servant is not greater than the master. We are Christians, not Stoics.
quoted (not completely verbatim) from C.S Lewis – Prayer: Letters to Malcom, 1964
Jesus also felt that his prayers were not granted, and that God had forsaken him. And even though God did forsake Jesus in that moment, he will not forsake you. Jesus is the only one who had to go through that separation.
But I pray that you who are suffering much will in your weakness allow Jesus to draw you into a greater intimacy with Him, who also suffered much and with whom you share so much.
Thinking of you and your family and your share of the Passion. Praying that the ‘strengthening’ angel will remain by your side and that you are strengthened and comforted daily.
I know we’re outside of all this, and our voices can hardly reach you. But we are here.
Brian
September 3, 2007 at 7:04 am
Jo Vandermey
My Mom asked me yesterday how you were doing. (She is a ninth st. nieghbour of Mendalts parents.) I hadn’t checked with the site for a week. I checked this morning… as I read your news I all feel is that choking feeling in my throat and tears form in my eyes. If I feel like that I can only imagine how your close family feels. Then it came to me “Jesus wept”. He weeps for me; he weeps for you. God gives us our tears. Through those tears may he give you strength. The saints continue to pray.
With love and prayers,
Jo and Jake Vandermey and family
September 3, 2007 at 8:40 am
Jennifer (Geerts) Brennan
Continuing to pray!
September 3, 2007 at 2:54 pm
Theresa
Rev. Uitenbosch visited the office last week and he asked me to pass on the message to that young man that played the piano with such passion that he and his wife are praying for your family. As are the both of us!
Theresa & Ann
September 3, 2007 at 3:34 pm
marlene langendoen
Dear M and M and children,
May the Lord give you all you need to press on. Our prayers are with you all.
Stan and Marlene Langendoen
Tim, Ryan, Alison, Leanne and Evan
September 3, 2007 at 4:02 pm
Chris and Christine
Mendelt and Marisa,
It seems so long ago that we saw you last. We have admired your perseverence and reverence. Chris and I think and pray for you often. I am saddened and troubled by your news and can only find one thing to say.
God knows what he’s doing! Everything that is done, is done for a reason (albeit without our knowledge or understanding), and is always done in His time only.
Understanding might never occur, patience is almost impossibly hard, but faith will bring you comfort.
We will continue to think and pray for you, your children and your families.
Continue to continue in faith. You guys are amazing!
Chris and Christine Hill
September 3, 2007 at 7:21 pm
Elzinga's
Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
May HIS Spirit be upon you.
Grace, peace & strength,
Floyd, Carolyn, Clay & Gavin
September 3, 2007 at 9:11 pm
Irene Geleynse
Dear Marisa and Mendelt,
What a blow to have received such bad news last Thursday! We pray that God will continue to be your source of strength, as is so evident through your blog entries. ” ‘For nothing is impossible with God’ ” (Luke 1:37) We pray that it will be His desire to heal you!
Love, Irene
September 3, 2007 at 10:19 pm
Corrie
Dearest Marisa & Mendelt: Have been west (to kids & grand kids) and north (to kids and grand kids) 🙂 I am so blessed and yet I feel like I’ve been out of touch with what’s going on in your lives even though you are so often in my thoughts & prayers – no matter where I am.
What difficult news to read. How much we realize we must implore our God and ask Him to grant healing to your body Marisa. How much we realize that our lives are in His hands and He is in control. May He hear the prayers of His people at this time! Sometimes it’s so hard to know how and what to pray. “The Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.” Rom.8: 26
My thoughts and prayers surround you often. May He give you a rich measure of love, peace and grace. Luv & God bless 🙂 cJz
September 3, 2007 at 10:37 pm
sandie Narsansky
I am sorry.
I weep with you.
I too feel the devastation.
Frustration.
Anger.
Why??
I am so sorry.
So, so sorry.
I love you.
I will continue to cry with you.
I will continue to pray.
September 3, 2007 at 11:33 pm
Joel Ringma
1 Thessalonians ends (in The Message) with these words:
May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together—spirit, soul, and body—and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ. The One who called you is completely dependable. If he said it, he’ll do it!
I kept rereading that passage after slamming into your post and I heard two things: Firs, the dischord between your experience and the music of the spheres and, second, the symphonic (ringing?) promises for which you continue to cling to with more than just your ears. I pray with you for the ears to hear …
September 4, 2007 at 7:09 am
Janis
Dear Lord Jesus……HEAR US LORD…. WE PRAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 4, 2007 at 7:14 am
Janis
In Your arms of love
In Your arms of love
holding me close, holding me near
In Your arms of love
Praying that the almighty Lord ….will hold you SO TIGHT in his almighty arms of LOVE…his arms of COMFORT……arms of PEACE.
Grieving with you……..nothing is impossible………with GOD……..PLEASE LORD!
September 4, 2007 at 9:01 am
Sandy
Marisa and Mendelt
Please know that you are always on my mind and in my prayers. I am crying over the news and I am lost for words. I know only alittle of what you are going through. God will carry you through this and give you the strength and peace to get you through each day. We will continue to pray and ask God for healing.
With Love in Christ
Sandy
September 4, 2007 at 10:08 am
Elma
Still rooted in prayer.
Elma Regnerus & Family
September 4, 2007 at 12:12 pm
Diane Bakker
Dear Marisa & Mendelt,
Its taken days to figure out what to say……..to measure my words carefully
Words……..are so inadequate, and yet God gave us the gift of words to lift, encourage, inspire, edify and console. Our hearts go out to you as you sstruggle over yet another hurdle. For days…..the words of Ecclesiates 3:11 have been on my mind.”He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
The title of chapter 4 of the Purpose Driven Life is ‘Made to Last Forever’, I think its my favorite chapter of the book…..it truly gives us a perspective on our earthly lives……a quote….
“The Bible says, “God has……planted eternity in the human heart.” You have an inborn instinct that longs for immortality. This is because God designed you, in His image, to live for eternity. Even though we know everyone eventually dies, death always seems unnatural and unfair. The reason we feel we should live forever is that God wired our brains with that desire!”
Though we cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end, I pray that the Lord will strengthen your trust and resolve and that when all that medically can be done, God will step in and choose to display His power and glory for He is the greatest Physician!!
Continually praying for you all………..
Hold fast…..
In His Grip,
Ralph& Diane, Leah&Ken, Aaron, Janelle & Adrianna
September 4, 2007 at 2:58 pm
Robyn Bezuyen
Words escape me today as I sit trying to pray but guess what? Jesus prays for us when there are no words. So I sit with my eyes closed knowing that Jesus sits with me praying to our Father with just the right words about you Marisa to comfort and hold and heal. I hold on to “a time for everything under heaven” and know that there IS a time to weep – so weep God is a BIG God and eventhough we do not understand this at all, HE does and I hope that is a comfort to know that WE do not have to be in control.
Jesus wept, Jesus prays and Jesus loves and so do His saints on earth
Peace,
The Bezuyen’s
Terry Robyn Katryna Emily and Mackenzie
September 4, 2007 at 4:15 pm
Kym
Mendelt and Marisa,
i came across your blog last night through another blog that was asking for prayer in light of your news.
Last night i read through your entire blog from start to now.
words elude me right now. what an INCREDIBLE family you are, i have learned so much from reading what you have been through and are still going through. i hate to admit it but my biggest question to God is WHY? Why this wonderful Family ????? WHY.
i have been deeply affected everything i have read and want you to know that you are all in my prayers from this day forward, i prayed last night and will continue to pray until i read that there is MORE that can be done and i will pray after that. i am in the US and i wonder and pray that your Doctors are researching far and wide what more can be done.
i am not great with words but just want to say that your strength, both of you is remarkable. i am so humbled by everything i have read. my life is going to change for the BETTER because of it. i am so sorry that you received such bad news but i KNOW that you will never ever give up. please fight, keep fighting. you are so AMAZING.
much love
Kym
September 5, 2007 at 11:35 pm
Nancy McKinley-Diakiw
Dear Marisa:
That cancer makes me so mad I want to swear, (I think I did in my head and I already said sorry to God) But I know what I should be doing is praying, praying, praying but I can’t stop crying for you right now and for Mendelt and for your 3 beautiful angels. This sucks!!!!! I cannot imagine the intensity of the WHY????? in your life right now and I pray that God gives you some of that “peace that surpasses all understanding” just about now. I just found this scripture on a card in my kitchen and it really fits. “Do not lose the courage you had in the past which has a great reward. You must hold on so you can do what God wants and receive what he has promised.” Hebrews 10: 35-36 Oh, I pray for healing for you and I pray for you to not lose courage!!! “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3 Wow, I love Scripture. God’s word is so powerful and so comforting and so alive. I pray you are comforted by His word. You are always in my prayers. Nancy
September 11, 2007 at 2:29 pm
Freda Van Arragon
Hi Marisa & Mendelt
So sad to hear this latest news. We long for life to the fullest and often think that means to a “ripe old age” I see that God has given us each a glass to represent our life. Some of us get thimbles and other huge pails. It is not the size but how we fill our life. As I read about your journey with cancer I see a tremondous filling of your glass – your journey has become an encouragement to so many people. It may be a support to you as a family but you have reached many, many people not all of them Christians. You are witnessing to God’s faithfulness even thru the dark valleys you now travel. May you especially feel His presence in this time of disappointment and sadness. I think of your family often. My prayers are with you. Freda