an update from Susan: 

Praises Abound

The Madden and Pohl Family want to thank all of you for the way you have ministered to us during the last six weeks. It was six weeks ago today we learned of Memory’s brain tumor and our world was turned upside down. But God had a plan, in fact it was His plan for us to walk this journey and to have so many others walking alongside us. I am beginning to exhale and wipe the tears of joy from my checks and stop literally shouting praises out loud since Monday’s news from the pathology report, although joy and praise still abound.

I flew back to Memphis today because Memory’s stamina and cognition were at a level that I felt comfortable leaving her to care for herself and William. Of course, she is not 100% and in fact doctors have said it could take up to a full year to reach that mark BUT she is doing amazingly well. She even drove me to the airport despite my insisting that I take an Uber… stubbornness runs in the family!

On Monday afternoon, Memory will meet with a neuro oncologist in Austin, Dr. Rebecca Fisher, to discuss in detail the pathology report and a plan moving forward. It will be comforting to have a second opinion plus Memory will need a local doctor for the MRIs needed every 3- 6 months for the rest of her life. Our prayers are that the good news is confirmed and she can resume to her normal daily life as soon as possible.

SO…I asked myself “what am I taking away from this life changing experience?”. First, I saw the incredible power of prayer. Many of you have joined us in praying without ceasing and storming His throne on behalf of Memory. The power of prayer does not flow from us but comes from the omnipotent One who hears our prayers and answers them- He is the source of the power of prayer and HE HEARD US AND ANSWERED US in a mighty way! Secondly, I realize what an incredible privilege it is to be in a community of believers. In Acts 2:40-47 the scripture talks about the first community of believers and how they shared in meals, prayer, fellowship, and teaching in order to meet one another’s needs. We have been the recipients of your “meeting our needs in the name of Christ “in such a beautiful way that I will treasure in my heart forever. Thirdly, I desire to view each day as a gift from above and will see the sunrise and sunset through different lenses now. GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME!

In deep appreciation and love for you all-

Susan Madden