Marlene Mazik

I was planning to visit my son in South Africa at the end of March and was very much looking forward to it. But as of Valentine's Day, February 14th, 2017 my life journey took a huge curve, leading me in a direction I never imagined I would ever have to encounter.  I went to the hospital because I was experiencing severe pain in my right side and back. Through an ultrasound, they discovered I had a mass on my uterus, however, it was determined through a biopsy to be benign.  I was referred to the hospital in London, ON for surgery.  On March 13th, I underwent surgery, however, it was not very successful.  I awoke to find out I had ovarian cancer, which is an aggressive form of cancer and had already spread to some of my internal organs. Unfortunately, ovarian cancer is known as the "silent killer" because it often progresses before you even know you have it. My son, Kelvin stayed with me in London until I could go home. 


I returned home to Waterloo to recuperate from surgery and Kelvin and his wife, Denise cared for me and my needs. Unfortunately, on April 8th I was in surgery again, this time for a bleeding ulcer. On April 16th, I had a very unexpected visitor show up at my home. My son, Jeff, had returned home from South Africa and has stayed with me from that day on. His wife Terri and their daughter Samara have since joined him. They are staying with me to help support me in this season. 


It was suggested I start chemotherapy to shrink the tumors. My niece, Kristen, is an oncology nurse at Grand River Hospital. Kristen has been a tremendous support and has been able to help guide me in making decisions as well as connect me with the very best caregivers.  I've made the decision to proceed with chemo and had my first treatment on May 5th. I will undergo three cycles (one treatment every 21 days) before I am reassessed. The hope is that there will be some visible shrinkage at that time. 


This diagnosis has been most painful and very difficult to process. As a woman of faith, I would greatly appreciate your prayer support. I have some specific prayer requests. Shout out to Brenda Pue and her book "But If Not: 588 days living with cancer", for giving me the words for my prayer requests.

1) Prayer for my children, Jeff and Kelvin and their spouses, Terri and Denise, and my grandchildren, Mariah, Jessica, Bethany, Chantelle, and Samara that God would give them courage, draw them closer to Himself, and that they may see God's hand orchestrating the path I will walk over this next while. 
2) That the Chemo would do the job it is supposed to do and shrink the tumor. 
3) That I will keep my eyes focused on Him and that I won't become overwhelmed by fear. My prayer is that I'll kick this cancer in the but!


I will be posting updates (with the help of my daughter-in-law Terri) from time to time. I invite you to follow my journey through this blog.