Cathi Beneschan (Melvin)

Dearest Friends in Christ, Thank you so much for all of your support and prayers during my time of recovery from surgery in October. Many get-well cards, calls, warm wishes, hugs and wonderful homemade meals made me feel so loved and supported. I know that all of your love helped contribute to my quick healing and recovery. God Bless You All! Now, I need to let you know about an additional health challenge that has come my way.This is truly a praise and prayer request all in one! During the recent surgery, my surgeon had an odd sense about some tissue that was removed and sent it for testing. The tests revealed carcinoma cells in the tissue. This began the cycle of much more testing, scans, appointments with specialists and the like. All the while, I was doing well, feeling healthy and strong, with no symptoms of any kind. It has now been determined that I do have cancer.  I begin treatment Friday, November 10.The treatment will likely last at least 6 months, including chemotherapy and surgery.During this time, I will work from home, as I can, and I will join you in worship and fellowship, as I am able. Now I need to stop and praise God:This particular cancer is sneaky; it almost always has NO SYMPTOMS and is usually not detected until much later (it even manages to hide from many blood tests and scans) BUT…. PRAISE GOD!!! For the many delays that went into the timing of my surgery, so that the cancer was detectable, yet not so advanced as to be untreatable.   PRAISE GOD!!! For the wisdom of the surgeon who sent that tissue for testing, especially when that is not something that is commonly done with this type of surgery. PRAISE GOD!!! For all of the experiences God has given me in recent months; dreams, encounters, visions, “coincidences”, all that I have stored in my heart, not knowing. Now, as I “connect the dots”, I see clearly that He has been preparing me to be able to be strong, armed and ready for this battle and to know that I will be Fully Restored! PRAISE GOD!!! For my church family whom I love so much. You have shown me so much love and support all these 25 years. Even though I may not be able to be with you physically, for a little while, know that you are constantly in my heart and in my prayers. Love, Cathi Beneschan