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Wednesday, April 19, 2006 6:23 AM CDT
I never wanted to have to write this note and I know none of you want to read it.
This morning, just before 3 Brenda went home. We miss the light that Brenda was in our lives, but we are thankful that her suffering is finally over.
We are so grateful to have had the support of friends like you all. Your messages will bring us comfort for a long time to come.
The wake and funeral are tentatively scheduled for this Friday and Saturday respectively. They will both take place in Northfield. There will also be a memorial service in Ohio tentatively scheduled for one week from this Saturday for those who are unable to make it up this weekend. We will post more details by the end of the day.
Please continue to keep our families in your prayers.
Andrew
Tuesday, April 18, 2006 9:25 PM CDT
It has been an eventful few days. On Sunday we enjoyed Easter dinner at Brenda's sister and brother-in-law's house. Brenda enjoyed some ham, mashed potatoes and deviled eggs. All received the Brenda Gilbertson "thumbs up seal of approval."
The next day brought a dramatic change in Brenda's status. Around 11:00 in the morning I took her out back to sit on the patio. Shortly after Brenda let me know she wasn't feeling well and was having difficulty focusing and controlling her arms.
Her status continued to decline. By that night she was unable to communicate with us and she had lost most of the control of her body. Her family and my family helped us through the night. By the next morning her body had calmed down and she rested peacefully for most of today.
She appears to be sleeping most of the time and still has difficulty breathing, but otherwise seems comfortable and peaceful.
Our families and friends have been tremendous supports for us, especially these last few days. We continue to lean on others to help us through.
Thank you for your continued prayers. We are so blessed to have so many wonderful friends.
Andrew
Saturday, April 15, 2006 4:37 PM CDT
It has been an up and down couple of weeks. My physical challenges continue, but I have been blessed with many cards and letters of support. It seems that every day someone sends a note to pick me up. I'm reminded often of the greatest gift God has given me...my friends.
The nights are sometimes difficult as I have been having some trouble sleeping. Andrew normaly wakes up to help me at night, but I've been trying to let him sleep...he needs to get sleep too!
The biggest highlight of the last couple weeks has been the return of my mom! It has been so nice to have her around to help me and help Andrew. There's no substitute for mom time. :)
Tomorrow, we will be going to my sister's house for a big Easter dinner. Andrew's parents, brother and his kids will be there along with my mom. I'm excited for some Easter ham, potatoes and the rest of the goodies.
I'm still hoping for a miracle. It's hard when my body reminds me constantly of the challenges I face, but I'm learning to trust in what God tells me and not what I think.
Please continue to keep me in your prayers. I'm so grateful to have friends like you caring about and praying for...me.
Friday, March 31, 2006 0:11 AM CST
It was happy 4 year anniversary for Andrew and I today (:
What a night it was March 30, 2002...one to remember for us. It has gone so quickly already. We are still so much in love and thank God for each and every day we have together.
More rececently we have been doing some more thanking due to a tough couple past days...I was not with it and I wasn't able to function too clearly, however, we got through it and last night I was even able to go out to eat at the TAVERN restaurant before going up and spending the night in our anniversery suite at the Archer House Hotel. It was a great day both yesterday and today! Also, Andrew and I were able to celebrate with my sister and her husband-Barb and Dave and then my dear cousin Kathy is in town for a few days from Arizona-we had a great time!
Please help with prayers for continued encouragement....it has been tough this week, I still want to believe in complete healing. (and it is hard when you are experiencing some of the things I am going through...)
Love you all,
Brenda (:
Wednesday, March 22, 2006 9:05 PM CST
Good Evening everyone!
Just wanted to write quick before bedtime here. I had a great day today (: Hardly any pain after I woke up this morning. I ha a small headache, but it soon went away after my meds. Thank the Lord. Sometimes it sticks around, but not today!
I visited with my PT for the first time today, she basically just did an overall eval of my status before I begin seeing her on a regular basis, it was painfree (: is all I care about! She even gave me a little massage. (:
THanks Mary S for calling today ...I miss you and love you! Thinking of you and your FAMILY!
I meet with the OT tomorrow. Keep praying for my ears and hearing-still struggling with it.
Time for nightly routine...bless you all.
Love
Brenda (:
Wednesday, March 15, 2006 2:51 PM CST
Hello there!
I am having a good afternoon today(:
I am sitting up at the dining room table- after finishing a GREAT lunch- and was casually reading the newspaper with my mom over a cup of tea! Almost seems like a normal afternoon, finally. (:
THe snow is so pretty outside, and we hear more is coming tonight. Maybe another snow day for Andrew tomorrow!!!! We liked the one we had on Monday (:
Please keep praying for my hearing...I hear a lot of white noise in my head and it is so hard to hear people talk and it is hard for me to talk on the phone. SO ...pray for the hearing thing, that is what is most driving me crazy!
Thank you all and I give you my love as always!
Brenda (:
Saturday, March 11, 2006 12:12 AM CST
Good Morning!
Having a good one today and already lots of visitors on this Saturday.
My sister came over to make me poached eggs -YUM-O! I had two of them! My mom and andrew went out to breakfast at the Ole Store- they had a good one! Well, Andrew actually ordered 2 entrees he said...he couldn't help himself. Both were excellent he said.
My headaches are down still and that makes me happy, and so is my nausea. Yippee. Please pray for my hearing now. I have a mild hearing loss and it is hard for me to hear/talk on the phone,etc. THis is getting me a little depressed, but I know God is in control, so I just have to be patient!
Bath time...must go get clean!
Love you
Brenda (:
Tuesday, March 7, 2006 9:51 AM CST
Good Morning!
Well, Andrew is back to work 1/2 days now, starting yesterday. The kids all loved seeing hi again and it is good for him to be back working part time. My mom is here for 2 weeks to help take care of me while we get a schedule in place for Brenda-sitters during the afternoons, for the rest of the year. (Which is not that far away, unbelievably so.) It is so nice having my mom here-I am fortunate she can come so often to help me. (: BTW- happy b-day mom on the 4th!
My nausea is under control-thank you GOD and I am taking considerably less morphine on a day to day basis,yippee. My sister has helped me with my work out routine-exercising my legs...keep praying for them. They are still quite weak.
Again, I love hearing from you all and thank you for all your prayers! Love you!
Brenda (:
Tuesday, February 28, 2006 12:58 AM CST
Good Afternoon!
Keep prayinng for these headaches to go away. Every morning I wake up with a little one behind my eyes and temples...and it takes a little while for them to go away.
Thank you friends and husband for all the head massages, they help so much. (: Keep them coming!
The nausea is getting much better-meaning I am keeping more food down and not throwing it up as much. Yippee! I hope I can start gaining some strength back.
Have a super day and thanks for checking on me!
Love,
Brenda
Thursday, February 23, 2006 10:36 PM CST
Hi Everyone,
Sorry that it has been a little while since the last update. I have been a little under the weather.
My nausea was back for a while and now it has subsided again, thank God. It is tough on the body vomiting so much. However, I am keeping things down now...mainly soup and jello! Thanks Barb and Donna for keeping me stocked up! (:
Lately, headaches are giving me problems. I have been waking up at night with an aching head. ): Andrew has been giving me head massages quite frequently in the wee hours of the morning...please pray for peaceful nights and for the headaches to stop.
These last few days....I celebrated a birthday! I should say "we" because I was able to celebrate with my twin sister this year!!! The 18th was a good day! I had a piece of cherry pie (my favorite-thanks mom for a great pie) and Barb had a piece of banana cream (her favorite!) pie. What a treat! My parents were able to come up to visit for the occasion-check out the pics!
Love you all
Brenda
Monday, February 13, 2006 2:14 PM CST Hi Peeps! Thursday, February 9, 2006 12:45 AM CST Hello, Monday, February 6, 2006 10:46 AM CST Good Morning! Thursday, February 2, 2006 2:21 PM CST Good Afternoon Friends and Family, Monday, January 30, 2006 5:55 PM CST The rollercoaster continues.....
Wednesday, January 25, 2006 9:22 PM CST The benefit concert was awesome! What a night it was for Andrew and I. We were blessed every single second we were there. It felt so good to be out and to see so many faces that I haven't seen in soooooo long. What great medicine for my soul! Saturday, January 21, 2006 2:23 PM CST Happy Weekend! Tuesday, January 17, 2006 1:21 PM CST Good Afternoon! Thursday, January 12, 2006 8:23 PM CST Hello Everyone, Monday, January 9, 2006 6:56 AM CST Hello! Wednesday, January 4, 2006 9:11 AM CST Happy New Year! Friday, December 30, 2005 7:49 PM CST My radiation is done. (: I am glad that I don't have to go back to Mayo anytime soon. I am readgy for a break!
Tuesday, December 27, 2005 6:02 PM CST Hello Everyone, Sunday, December 25, 2005 3:40 PM CST Merry Christmas Everyone! Friday, December 23, 2005 8:09 AM CST HI Everyone! Friday, December 16, 2005 7:37 AM CST Brenda is at the Mayo Clinic until later today so she asked me (Andrew) to give you all an update in her absence. Saturday, December 10, 2005 5:03 PM CST HI Everyone, Friday, December 9, 2005 6:51 AM CST Good Morning Everyone, Tuesday, December 6, 2005 6:16 AM CST Hello, Friday, December 2, 2005 3:25 PM CST Happy December 2!
Sunday, November 27, 2005 11:25 AM CST Thank you everyone for the uplifting messages written on my guest book! I love hearing from everyone and thank God for all of you! Tuesday, November 22, 2005 1:48 AM CST Hello all, Friday, November 18, 2005 7:46 PM CST Hello Everyone,
Saturday, November 12, 2005 1:04 PM CST Thank you everyone for praying for us! We feel SO encouraged!!!! Friday, November 11, 2005 10:27 AM CST Pray...pray....pray... Thursday, November 3, 2005 3:14 PM CST Happy November Everyone (:
Friday, October 7, 2005 2:06 PM CDT Happy Fall! Thursday, September 22, 2005 11:06 AM CDT Hello Friends and Family,
Sunday, August 28, 2005 5:24 PM CDT Hello everyone,
Tuesday, August 16, 2005 9:50 PM CDT Hello Everyone!
Thursday, July 21, 2005 9:38 AM CDT Hello Friends and Family!
Sunday, June 19, 2005 7:53 PM CDT Hello Friends and Family, Thursday, April 28, 2005 9:32 PM CDT Hi Everyone, Monday, April 4, 2005 1:53 PM CDT Hello Friends and Family (: Tuesday, February 22, 2005 10:38 PM CST HI Everyone, Wednesday, January 26, 2005 8:59 PM CST Hi there faithful web watchers (: Saturday, January 8, 2005 7:17 PM CST Hi friends and family,
Friday, December 31, 2004 10:38 AM CST Hello Everyone and Happy New Year! Friday, November 26, 2004 2:46 PM CST Hi Everyone,
Tuesday, November 16, 2004 6:13 PM CST Hello Everyone, Saturday, November 13, 2004 12:37 AM CST Hello Friends and Family, Sunday, October 31, 2004 7:35 PM CST Hello Everyone and Happy Halloween! Saturday, September 25, 2004 5:25 PM CDT Hello Friends and Family, Wednesday, September 15, 2004 6:36 PM CDT Hello and Happy Fall to everyone!
Sunday, August 29, 2004 10:05 PM CDT Hello Everyone!
Tuesday, July 6, 2004 7:54 PM CDT Hello Everyone! Saturday, June 19, 2004 9:50 PM CDT Hello Family and Friends, Tuesday, May 4, 2004 8:15 PM CDT Hello Everyone, Wednesday, March 24, 2004 5:03 PM CST Hello everyone! Wednesday, March 17, 2004 7:39 AM CST "You hit a homerun....Brenda, everything looks normal...." my doctor said yesterday when he walked into the room where Andrew and I were waiting at the Mayo Clinic. I thought my ears were deceiving me, and I asked the doctor if he was kidding. Some of you out there would tell me ..Brenda why would he kid at something this important... he is a Mayo doctor...he probably would not kid about this! I guess I was so stunned at his words because that is what my heart truly wanted to hear. A smile and a "Praise God" came out from our lips as Andrew and I looked at each other with knowing eyes. We know how this happened. It was no mistake...it was the hand of God healing my body...anwering the many prayers that were flooding the gates yesterday..what a powerful and healing God we have! Thank you to all who have been sending prayers up to heaven for Him to hear, the power of prayer is real! Monday, March 15, 2004 1:04 PM CST Well, tomorrow is the mayo day. Already a bit nervous. I just wanted to thank you for taking time to sign the guest book. I am overwhelmed from reading all the wonderful comments you all posted, thank you dearly. It makes me smile knowing that so many people will be thinking about me tomorrow. Lots of love, Wednesday, March 10, 2004 12:01 AM CST Hello everyone! Welcome to this webpage! I finally found a way to keep everyone updated on my health. First of all I would like to thank the many people out there who have been praying for me. God is good and I believe that I will be healed...if not already! (:
Click here to go back to the main page.
Can you tell that I am feeling better? (: As of 2:14 pm today I am felling pretty good! I have been harboring a headache for the past day and a half and now it is gone (just having woke from my nap) and I am so happy...so very happy! Praise God!
Yesterday, we had a small group of people come over to pray for us, and it was awesome. I never turn down prayer-it just feels so good and you know God is listening.
Jesus said...
"Again, I tell you that if two ir you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my father in heaven. For where two if three come together in my name, there am I with them."
Matthew 18:19-20
My nausea is getting better, however, it is not entirely gone-so keep up the prayers for that. Also, my legs are pretty weak and it is quite hard to walk, so prayers for the Lord's strength to help restore my legs would be so helpful! And my right arm and hand are all pins and needles-prayers for that body part would be needed too.
Love you all and thanks for all the messages on the guest book- I love them!
Brenda (:
This week was a okie dokie week for me. On Tuesday I had to go to the emergency room for vomiting up some blood. I woke up Tuesday morning throwing up and did not stop all day. By 4:45 pm is when the blood started appearing in the waste basket. It was a little scary to see, and in we went to the ER. When we got there, Pat (bless his heart) was already there waiting to meet us with his Bible open and prayers pouring out. Thank you Pat. By the time we left that night, we had a handful of people there praying for us as they waited in the waiting room. THANK YOU EVERYONE! THe prayers worked, I was able to come home that night and the drugs they gave me for nausea are workng! There suspicion is that the blood was from an esophageal tear from straining so much when vomiting. I believe it. It takes a lot out of you that is for sure. I also received a liter of fluids, which felt great. I was sooooooooo dehydrated from not being able to keep anthing down.
Since then, the food has been staying down (: Glory!
I am just eating jello and soup, easy stuff-nothing too complicated- but at least it is staying down!
Right now, I am feeling good and remain strong in my faith and healing. God is with me and I am waiting upon Him for complete manifestation of my healing.
Take care,
Brenda
Sunny day here at 206 Spring Street in Northfield, as I am looking out my window from my chair. Just beautiful.
My nausea is decreasing fortunately, so thank you for those that were and are still praying for that. It makes such a difference in a day when you can keep the food down that you eat!
Went to my sister's house to watch the Super Bowl yesterday...did you all know that my sister and brother in law moved here to Northfield this last month? It is soooo nice having some of my family so close...especially my twin! (: We had so much fun and good treats to eat! I'm telling you, when I get better... I hope Andrew still does some of the cooking. He is getting to be quite the chef! He made 2 dips and shredded beef for sandwiches...it was fantastic. Way to go honey!
I am encouraged by Hebrews 6:11-12 today. "We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised." And God has promised me through the blood of Jesus-healing! So I just have to wait patiently for God's timing! -And pray for it to be soon! (:
Have a Glorious Day today and GOD BLESS YOU!
Love
Brenda
Thanks for checking in on me today! (:
I love to read your messages on the guestbook everyone, thank you for writing!
Still a little struggle keeping food down, but I will share with you something fun. It seems when I think of what food I am hungry for I think of Wendy's. So Andrew goes out and buys me a Wendy's meal and I am able to keep it down!!! Isn't that something! Forget the green juice...Wendy's here I come! hehe
God is blessing me, I think he knows how much I like to eat Wendy's fries dipped in frosty! Yum-o!
I am resting in the Lord and waiting on him still. Pray for continued strength for me...I need it. I ended up taking a little fall yesterday while I was in the bedroom. My balance was thrown off a bit, and I went down to the floor. Bumped my head and got a couple of sore areas. I am okay and iced everything up pretty good...just a little scary. But, God helped me through and I am up and around again with restored confidence.
Love you all and have a sunny day!
Brenda (:
Good day one day, the next not so good. I have been struggling with food once again. Somedays it stays down, others not at all. We are not sure why and have been just praying for relief.
Today was a restful day for me, slept in until 2:30! I guess I was tired. It felt so good just to rest listening to worship music. I may try it again tomorrow!
We are having night watches at our house where people come to pray from 12-3 and from 3-6 in the morning. Just another way to fight and WIN the battle! Also, it is another way for Andrew to get some more sleep-he was always up praying for me at night-it gives him a break. (: Thanks prayer warriers for your help!!!
Love & Hugs
Brenda
The music filled my spirit with hope and healing and the love that was there filled my heart 1000 times over. Bless you all and thank you to those that attended. GO BRENDA!
My nausea today subsided and I was able to keep food/liquids down, praise God. For the past 2 days leading up to the concert I was not able to keep anything down, blah! So, lets be grateful for each day and each new step toward healing. Amen!
Take care all, umtil next time (:
"Come to me, all you who are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30
This the verse that found me today. We all can give our burdens to Jesus and He will find us rest. Amen!
I have included a scanned copy of the newspaper article that was in the Northfield News this week about our story.Check out the picture section. Enjoy!
Thank you for praying for nausea-I did not toss my cookies at all on Friday!!!! Praise God! Keep praying for continued strength in my legs and for energy!
I love you all!
God Bless
Brenda (:
Thanks again for all the inspiring healing messages! I love to hear them all! God is good all the time and my miracle is waiting to happen...I just know it!
This week I am having a little trouble with nausea. I am finding myself not being able to keep my food down very well. If you could pray for the release of this feeling and for me to be able to eat and keep the food down, that would be wonderful.
Otherwise, my spirits are up and I am still smiling everyday! (: Check out some new pics, and take care!
Love,
Brenda
Note from Rejoice! Church:
This next Monday, January 23 at 7:00 pm Rejoice! is holding a benefit concert for Andrew and Brenda. All are invited to attend this night of night of fellowship and worship. The concert will be at the NHS auditorium.
Just wanted to let you know that this has been a week filled with prayer for Andrew and I, and we are soaking it all in!
(and loving every minute of it!)
Yesterday, Andrew amd I were asked to be the special guests to receive prayer from the Northfield Community City Churches/Community members as they gathered in the basement of the Community National Bank. It was an amazing experience being in the middle of the group getting prayed for by all the representatives from the community,where we all claim that Jesus Christ is Lord, and that He is our Healer! We are expecting a miracle!Praise God!
Today, Andrew and I went to the Healing Center up in Brooklyn Park to receive prayer. They have small groups ready to pray for those that need it, and we sure do. They had some great words for me, one being to rest in the Lord and let his prayer warriers (all you) carry me to healing. I was just getting worn out, always praying, reading the Bible, listening to tapes...thinking I am not doing enough. But, God wanted to tell me that I have done enough, my faith is more than sufficient and to just rest and accept His love. God is good, isn't he?
Tomorrow morning we are having some people stop by to pray as well...I am blessed.
I feel about the same strength wise, and continue to hope for improved mobility with my legs and right hand. The tumor I believe in my right shoulder has gone down some since last week! So that is great news!
Keep up your prayers, I appreciate them all!
Love
Brenda
Just wanted to let you know that for the past few days I have felt myself get a little stronger each day! My legs are finally starting to feel more like real legs! Sounds kind of funny, but it is true. They were all numb and tingly, and now they are starting to feel better and stronger. Yea!
Yesterday and today I even woke up in the morning with some energy! Boy, does that feel good when that happens. I haven't felt this way in a long time! Watch out world! hehe
Keep praying for my right arm and tumor in the right shoulder/armpit area. It is cutting off the nerve sensation to my right hand and it makes it hard to write/type and basically use it. The tumor has gone down some, but lets pray that it dissolves totally!!!
Have a happy and sunny day today everyone! Love you!
Brenda (:
So far this new year has been good to me! My swelling in my body has gone down some, and we pray that it continues to do so.(:
God is answering prayers big and small. I have been having trouble with nausea. There have been a couple of times where I have felt like I was going to throw up, but Andrew and I came against it in Jesus name and the feeling left! Praise God!
Andrew is taking the month of January off work to help me recuperate, and it is so nice to have him around. We are blessed that his job allows him to do that. As of right now, he is planning on going back to his classroom in Feb.
Our next scheduled Mayo checkup is at the end of Feb. and we are looking forward to a clean bill of health.
Andrew and some of our friends and family are taking turns praying and fasting during the month of January. If this is something you might be interested in doing, please email us at: gilbie@ll.net
Have a great day everyone!
Love,
Brenda
p.s. check out the new pics
Tonight Andrew and I are just taking it easy, trying to relax after a long week of doctor's appointments. Please keep praying for the tumor in my shoulder to shrink and dissapear and for the pain to go away there too.
Happy New Year Everyone, my prayers are for your health and happiness this next year!
Love
Brenda (:
Today I went to Mayo for my second to last radiation appointment for my tumor in my arm. My last radiation is this Friday already, for a total of 5 sessions. The side effects are not too bad, some swelling, nausea, tiredness, red bumpy skin- not my favorite ): The people there are so nice to me and the radiation itself is a piece of cake. I just ask God to protect my body, because you have these lasers going everywhere...I just hold my breath and try not to sneeze! They even mark you with a little tatoo dot, so they can be very precise.
The week before I finished radiation on my nerves below the spine, they said that the nerves were thickening up and suspected tumors growing on them. We will see if the radiation helps. They say it would take up to 2-4 weeks after the sessions to see if there was indeed improvement.
Keep praying for my leg strength and coordination as well as the tumor in my arm to go away quickly...need relief soon!
Keep you posted...
Love
Brenda
I love you all so much (: and thank you for your messages and prayers continuously, I smile and cry (good cry) when I read through the messages. My heart is joyful.
I had this image of me as a cup and God is pouring his love into it, filling it up. However, He is not stopping the flow when it reaches the top, He is continuing to pour without relenting. And...there is nothing I can do...He is continuing to show me his outpouring love... overflowing all around me and in me and through me and I am overcome with emotions of love, thanksgiving, and praise. I have never experienced anything like this before. Last night, I just sat there, and cried a great cry of emotion for all the Love that God is pouring my way and in the process, touching the lives of so many people I never would have thought possible.
Thank you God for using me, I am honored. Help me to continue to hope and believe in 100% supernatural healing,...if we believe, we will receive what we ask for in prayer.
Bless you all,
Brenda (:
This is Brenda (:
I am glad to be back home this week and cannot believe it is already 2 days before Christmas.
My spirits are lifted so high from the many prayers, messages,cards, songs, and gifts I have been receiving!!! I am so joyful! Even though my health is still in recovery mode, this still may be the best Christmas I have had...the reason for the season has been made more apparent to me and is much more important to me this year too. (: God is good, even in the darkest times. He makes them shine...through YOU! You are all my Christmas presents this year (: My favorites!
I go back to the Clnic today for radiation and then 2 times next week. Then I will be done. I am still on my nutritiion supplements too, anything that will help get me back to the new and improved me is what I am going to do!
I will write more soon, I promise... and until then remember the reason behind our love for each other.
I love you!
Brenda (:
It's been a long week. Let me start at the beginning. Monday afternoon, shortly after our Mayo appointment, Brenda began to experience some pain in her back and shoulder. She took her pain meds yet it continued to get worse so we decided to head to the emergency room here in Northfield. They got her pain under control and, after talking to the clinic, decided to send her by ambulance to Mayo in Rochester. We spent the rest of the day geting settled into a room and getting Brenda hooked up to an I.V. for her pain medication. After numerous doctor visits and anxious phone calls we were finally able to sleep. For the first night in a month Brenda slept through the night! It was such a joy to watch that sweet girl peacefully sleeping, an early Christmas present.
Tuesday brought more tests and meetings with several doctors and specialists. The results of the tests showed a small growth in a muscle of her low back as well as some cancerous "coating" on the nerves in her lower back. In addition, the tumor in her shoulder was presumed to be cancer. It was a difficult day until we began to get reports of what was happening at Papa Murphys in Northfield. Both Brenda and I began to cry as we heard of people waiting in line in the cold just to buy a pizza in support of us. The image of all those people sitting in the cold, singing Christmas carols, still brings tears to my eyes.(You gotta read the messages left by people on this website that night). I can't tell you all how uplifting it was to know how many of you in Northfield were behind us. That great news came just at the right time. We have to say a very big thank you to Sharon and Brian Parrish, the Papa Murphy owners, for leading the charge on such a fantastic event. They not only donated the pizzas and labor, but daily thought of new ways to advertise and get others involved. Pain medication is great for the body, but nothing refreshes our weary hearts like the love and support you all poured out on us that night.
The rest of the week was a blur of meetings with doctors, tests and phone calls. Brenda decided to begin a course of radiation to try and alleviate the symptoms in her lower back and her shoulder. She began the treatments on Thursday and will finish her back radiation in the middle of next week and her shoulder radiation within the next three weeks.
The good news is that her pain is well managed and under control. She is getting some consistant sleep and even gaining a little weight. We are so grateful for the wonderful care she received at the Northfield Hospital and the Mayo Clinic.
On the downside, the radiation treatments are not intended nor expected to be a cure so we are still leaning on your prayers and God's mercy for a complete healing. In the meantime we will continue to go forward in faith armed with the overwhelming love and support that you all have given to us through your prayers and messages. The best way we can think to say thank you is to get Brenda healed. We're gonna win this one.
Thanks for taking the time to read this entry. Brenda should be writing another soon.
God Bless,
Andrew
Went to Mayo yesterday and my doctor was a little alarmed at the muscle loss that I have been experiencing, as well as my tingly feet. It is hard for me to go upstairs and get up from chairs. I also have had back pain that he was concerned about too.
He thinks that it might have something to do with my spinal cord/pelvis area, maybe some pressure is built up there that is causing my discomfort.
On Monday I have scheduled a MRI of my pelvis/spinal cord area and bloodwork.
My tumor in my right shoulder is still giving me problems, and 2 of my fingers are tingly on my right hand. I think the tumor is pressing on my nerves there and therefore, I have this sensation.
Wish I could have delivered a better report to you all. Please pray for clean scans on Monday-free from cancer and for supernatural healing before then!
Love,
Brenda (:
Today I go visit my doctor at the Mayo clinic. I am concerned about the tingly feet that I have been experiencing for the past 5 days or so. My feet feel like they are on pins and needles all the time, and I want to find out why.
My sister and brother-in-law are up visiting this week in Minnesota, which is very nice. They are thinking of moving here..to Northfield. They are looking at houses today...it will be so nice to have them close. (:
Keep praying for less pain and sleep at night...and strength to defeat the enemy.
Love,
Brenda (:
I am just amazed at the number of people signing on to view the updates, thanks everyone for caring. I am blessed everyday by every mouse click on this page to see how I am doing. So, thanks for your clicks!
I am still experiencing pain in my legs and lower back and have been working with a variety of professionals to help relieve the pain. Mainly, so I can sleep at night. I am still averaging 2-3 hours a night. The tumor in my right shoulder is giving me some pain as well, so please pray for the tumor to shrink quickly. I need to get better soon....this pain stuff is not too fun and can be very consuming.
Overall, my spirit remains hopeful and I find myself saying over and over that "God is good, all the time." Even when I feel awful, I have to remember that... and believe that he will save me soon.
Take care all,
Brenda (:
Last night I finally got some good sleep! I slept in bed for 4 hours straight...and it was some deep sleep. Thank the Lord!
I woke up at 9:30 even wondering where I was!!! I was out of it! I haven't slept that hard in over 3 weeks! It was very comforting!!!
Thank you all for prayers for sleep...I hope I can get some more sleep tonight!
Much love,
Brenda (:
p.s. It is so touching hearing from all of you, it makes me cry to see how many people are praying for me and believing in healing. I can't thank you enough for writing encouraging notes to me (:
I had a great Thanksgiving in Ohio with my family. We had quite a few people show up at the Nissen Ranch. It was great to see everyone. I even was able to have a Thanksgiving meal that consisted of turkey, applesauce, cranberries, greenbeans and my favorite...mashed potatoes and gravey!!! YUM!!! I was so thankful for that meal! What a treat after the many long weeks of green juicing it. I had many things to be thankful for this Thanksgiving, it was a special holiday for me this year (:
My migrains are still missing in action and I believe that they will stay that way! I am still experiencing muscle cramping and lower back pain. Please continue to pray for these two things. I really need sleep and just to be able to lay down without hurting would be heaven.
I will keep posting updates, so stay tuned and I want to say a special message to a couple of people:
1. Thanks to my cousin Bill for holding a healing prayer session for me at home.
2. Thanks to all my concord students and families for writing to me...I remember you all!!!!! You hold a special spot in my heart.
Love, Brenda
ps. check out the new pics
Thanks for your prayers and continued support! We are overwhelmed with your graciousness.
Please pray for my leg cramping pain as well as the ability for me to get some sleep. I have only slept 30 minutes total in the last two nights so far. I am quite tired, and therefore hope I am making sense.
All my love,
Brenda (:
Thank you so very much for all the support and prayers we have been receiving this last week. The week has gone fast and the good news is that I am not in as much pain. It has been over a week without a migrane headache! Wonderful! It was to a point when I would get them everyday. Miracles happen. Also, my diet has changed and I am adding food to my diet now!!! Isn't that great! Not only do I get to eat toast, but veggie soup, fish, chicken, and baked potatoes with butter! Real butter!!!
I will keep you all updated and keep praying for the back pain and leg cramping!
Love
Brenda (:
We have had a hard couple of days with visiting the Mayo Clinic and finding out that they detect cancer in my brain was quite devastating. The recommended treatment was whole brain radiation-not a cure- just to help with pain. It would be for 15 days straight and I would lose my hair and quoting from the doctor.."feel like the soul was sucked out of me."
I am not choosing to do this treatment. I am choosing to fight back with PRAYER and other alternative methods that I have been trying.
God is with me and I feel him lifting me up in healing! Thank you to ALL of you again for praying!
FYI...friends here in Northfield are holding a whole day fast from eating to help fight the battle with us, if you are interested in joining wherever you are located.
Love
Brenda (:
and then pray some more. We need extra encouragment today and healing.
Pslam 103 is helping...thank you (:
Brenda (:
I have good news to report...my "number" is now down to a 3.5 rating. Whew! It is hard work, doing all the stuff I have to do, but it pays off! I have good days and still very painful days, so keep praying for my pain to subside and for the cancer to go away. Your prayers are precious to us and we believe that they will be answered speedily.
I have now added toast to my schedule, and it feels good to crunch on something finally! I almost cried when I found out that I could add this to my daily routine. I have it 3 times a day! Yippee!
Love you all and thank you for your constant support and help!
Still juicing like mad...
Brenda (:
I just heard last night some new results, and it is good news. I have gone down another point in the cancer rating system. I started out as a 6, went down to a 5 after 2 weeks and I just found out I am at a 4. I am halfway there! I need to be between 0-2, to be rid of this cancer business.
My thyroid and energy level have both increased and I am happy about that! I am still working on getting my lungs and liver/gallbladder back into shape.
The green juice is flowing through my body and keep praying for great results!
Keep you updated!
Brenda (:
I just wanted to take a minute and update you on my prognosis. Andrew and I went and met with some women who specialize in getting better through nutrition and prayer...the more wholistic approach some would say. They were so encouraging and positive that I just felt that this was the way to go at this time and it is time for my cancer to go!!! Amen!
So, I am on a pretty strict diet/schedule of what to do that I am kept quite busy. It is more work than my half time teacher job even. Thus, I had to take a leave of absence from work for the time being.
I am concentrating on getting better and have been blessed to be surrounded by people who are helping both Andrew and I stay on top of things. God is good to us and we are waiting for the day to tell you all that I am cancer free...pray that day comes within weeks!
Thank you for you many prayers and support!
Brenda (:
My heart tests came back normal! Whew! I was a little worried for a moment, but all is well. (:
It must have been a little anxiety that made my heart beat so fast...that's what I told the doctor! But at least now we know that everything is okay!
We are looking into a nutrionist for an alternative approach to healing. I will keep you updated!
Love,
Brenda
p.s. this page is dedicated to Ruthie (:
Just visited Mayo both today and yesterday. They are long days that tire me out! Andrew was with me so at least I was in good company!
On Monday we found out that my 3 spots are still there but have not grown at all. Which I am glad that they remained the same. However, my heartrate was quite high, 120 bpm. So, on Tuesday I went into have some heart tests done and more bloodwork. I will know the results in a few days.
I hope it is nothing serious, my body is tested out and I am worn out.
As for new cancer treatment, we are waiting to see what comes available over the next 6 weeks. So, keep praying for a full recovery!
All my love,
Brenda (:
I hope all of you are having a great summer!
As to my update, my most recent doctor's appointment (July 19th)came back with results that we did not want to hear.
They found 2 new spots in my lungs that they think might be cancer. One in my left and one in my right lung. As a result, they took me off the clinical trial that I have been on for the last 6 months.
We go back in 3-4 weeks, giving my body time to rid itself of the drugs that I have been taking. Before I start taking new drugs, my body must be all clear from the old ones. At that time, we will be discussing alternative treatments. But most of all the treatment that we need is prayer. Please pray for the spots to go away and that I will be healed...thank you!
I wil keep you posted (:
Brenda (:
I am sorry that I haven't been up to date on my website in quite awhile...I guess you could assume that no news is good news. (:
Well, I am still on my clinical trial-giving myself 2 shots a day of abt-510. My tumor is still there, but not growing. That is good! Please keep praying that it will disappear.
Our next appointment is June 28th.
School is out and Andrew and I are having a fantastic summer. We both have new teaching positions for next year. I am teaching 4th grade half-time and Andrew is teaching 1st grade..WOW!
I hope you all have a great summer (: Thanks for keeping me in your prayers!
Brenda
p.s. this entry is dedicated to Debra (:
Good news to report!
Everything is stable and is staying the same. No new growth at all. My doctor even said that "I am a miracle"-something that he has never said before. I came home and told Andrew and he replies with- I knew that! (: Our doctor also said that things are very hopeful.
Thank you for all your prayers!
Love
Brenda (:
I visted Mayo last week and everything is staying the same. The tumor in the left lung is still there, but not growing. I am continuing with the drugs and will do so until the tumor is no longer there...keep praying!
Andrew and I just had our Spring Break and along with that we were able to celebrate our 3rd Wedding Anniversary-March 30th! We went to Red Wing to the Saint James Motel to celebrate. Check out the photos!
Thanks everyone for your generosity and love.
Take care,
Brenda (:
Just visited Mayo last Wednesday and all is well. Everything is stable and I am continuing on for another 6 weeks of the medication. I am getting to be a pro at giving myself a shot..I think I am ready to try it on somebody else now! "Oh Andrew..." hehe
I go back again in 3 weeks..hope the news is good!
Love & blessings!
Brenda (:
Andrew and I just got back from our Mayo appointment today and all is stable. The tumor in the left lung is still there, but it is not growing. It is still the same size as it was 8 weeks ago. So, I am continuing on with another 3 weeks with the clinical trial. The shots are getting easier to handle, but I would still prefer not to do them! I also have decided to take a leave of absence from work for awhile. I believe I can take up to 12 weeks off. I plan on resting and getting my body back to being healthy!
Thank you for all the cards, calls, and prayers (: It warms my heart during these frigid Minnesota winter days.
Take care,
Brenda (:
This last week I went to have my 6 week check up at the end of my clinical trial. Right now everything is stable. The tumors in my lungs are still there, but they did not grow...which the doctor says is good news. I am continuing on the trial for another 6 weeks and then I will be reevaluated every three weeks.
Thank you still for being so dedicated in prayers...it is so overwhelming to know the support we have. Our hearts our filled with joy and love from your friendship and support (:
Love and happiness,
Brenda (:
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas (:
Andrew and I went back to Ohio to visit my family for a week. It was so snowy and white...more than Minnesota!
I am just finishing up my 6 week clinical trial this next week, and I go off to Mayo this Tuesday to see if the new drug is helping my tumors decrease. If the tumors do look like they are getting smaller, than I will most likely continue on the trial. If they are not changed, then I probably will go off the trial.
I will update this site after hearing the results of the tests.
Take care everyone,
Brenda (:
This last Tuesday I went down for much testing to get ready to start a clinical trial. I had a MRI done of my brain, a CT scan of my body, and 8 vials of blood taken. Whew! It was a long day. An MRI was not my favorite test to go through, the testing tube was so loud due to the magnets moving so fast. Thanks Tania for going with me today! (:
On Wednesday afternoon, Andrew and I went back down to Mayo to meet with the doctor to go over the test results. We also had to decide at this time if we wanted to go through a clinical trial called ABT510. It is where I give myself 2 shots a day, once in the a.m. and once in the p.m.
After meeting with the doctor, we decided that this was the best option-medically speaking. So, off I went to the lab to learn how to give myself a shot and to prepare myself for the first dose of treatment.
For the next 3 weeks I will be on the treatment, then I will have to go back to Mayo for evaluation. Then, another 3 weeks of treatment. The postive side of the situation is that the side effects are minimal. I just feel a little nauseous right after the shot and I get a little pink rash around the injected area. I can live with this.
The hope of this treatment is to stop the growth of melanoma tumors in my body, and to make the ones inb my lungs disappear.
Thank you everyone for keeping me in your prayers, we still believe healing will take place!
Love,
Brenda (:
Just wanted to write and update you all on the events of today. I went in for same day surgery this morning, and the surgery went well. No complications or anything, which is good. My incision is about 3-4 inches long, and is all bandaged up.
They did however, find melanoma cells in the little bump that they removed today. ): It was not what we wanted to hear and we are trying to keep our spirits up. Please keep us in prayer as we take one day at a time.
We will most likely meet with our doctor within the next couple weeks to see what options there are for me,
We will keep this page updated as we know more...
Thanks for praying,
Brenda
Andrew and I go meet with the surgeon this Monday, Nov. 15th to talk about the little new lump they are going to remove. The outpatient surgery will either be the next day or the following day. We should know what the biopsy tells us the same day as the surgery. We will inform everyone as soon as we can as to what that little bump turns out to be.
Thanks everyone for showering us in prayer...
God Bless,
Brenda (:
This last Friday (Oct 29) we went back to Mayo for more testing.
The spots in my lungs are still present-and the results were the exact ly the same. So... they did not grow over these last six weeks since they found them. I am glad about that. (:
My bloodwork is normal- so that is good too.
I did however, find on little bump on my backside that is new. I am going to have it removed next week. They will take a biopsy of the lump and see what type of cell make up it is. We are praying that it has nothing to do with melanoma and that the bump is benign.
We will meet with the surgeon early next week and then have sugery the following day. It will be same day surgery-so I will come home after it is removed.
I will keep you all updated as to what comes next, until then thank you for praying for us.
With love,
Brenda
Just to let you know...we didn't hear the news we wanted to hear this past Friday. ):
The doctors found some spots in both lungs that look like cancer cells. The next step is waiting a month before I go back for another CT scan to see if the spots have increased in size. We are looking at different treatment options, and will keep you updated as time goes on. Both Andrew and I are trying to remailn positive and to tust in our Lord.
Thanks so much for your prayers and keep praying!
Love you all
Brenda (:
All is well in the Gilbertson household these days! We filled up on fair food at the State Fair and now are trying to lose those extra 5 pounds!
My next appointment at Mayo is coming up soon! It is Friday, September 24th. Again, it will be an all day appointment filled with tests and culminate with the doctor's examination.
We are thinking positive and pray for good results!
Keep us in your prayers! Thank you!
Brenda (:
It is back to school for us...starting tomorrow already! We had a super summer and are looking forward to another wonderful year teaching. I am still thankfully healthy and Andrew is too! (:
As soon as I know the date of my appointment in September I will post it, until then take care my friends and God Bless (:
Brenda (:
Great News! Our appointment went well! Our doctor said we hit another homerun! (: I can get used to these appointments. Thank you again for all your prayers!
Our next appointment will be in the latter part of September. If this appointment goes well, we may be able to try and start a family! Kind of exciting!
Take care all and enjoy your summer!
Love,
Brenda (:
This coming Monday-June 21 is my next doctors appointment. I will have bloodwork done as well as a chest x-ray. Pray for awesome results (: That is what we are praying for!
Have a great summer and I will keep you posted of what we find out on Monday!
Love,
Brenda
It is finally May and all is well. I am still waiting to hear when my next apt will be at mayo...sometime in June.
I just wanted to let you know that my doctor at mayo-Dr. Edward T. Creagan just finished writing a book called- How to NOT Be My Patient. I am a couple chapters in and it is a good book-I recommend it to you. And....if you get to page 99, you might find something familiar to read about...a girl that moved up her summer wedding to be married in 10 days. No kidding!
Hope all is well for you this spring and plant a flower or two-They are fun to watch grow and then bloom into bright cheery colors!
Happy Spring!
Brenda (:
I am still so very happy from the news I heard a week ago today...both Andrew and I are still all smiles! (:
I want to thank you all for writing in the guestbook, I have loved reading what you all had to say...many of my days were made by your sweet and touching words!
Enjoy the spring months and I will keep you informed when our next apt will be.
Thanks again for writing...
Brenda (:
What is next.... we have our follow-up appointment sometime in June. Until then, I will continue eating right, exercising and most importantly -praying. (:
Love you all and thanks again for all your support!
Brenda (:
Brenda (:
I am gearing up for my next round of testing Tuesday, March 16th. I will undergo the usual bloodwork, chest x-ray as well as a PET scan. The PET scan will take about 3 hours...a long time to lay inside a tube that is for sure. We get to meet with our doctor that afternoon to get the results of all the tests from that day, so we will keep you informed. Keep praying!
Brenda (:
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