But now, O Jacob{Jessica}, listen to the Lord who created you.
O Israel, the one who formed you says,
“Do not be afraid, for I have redeemed you.
I have called you by name; you are mine.
2 When you go through deep waters,
I will be with you.
When you go through rivers of difficulty,
you will not drown.
When you walk through the fire of oppression,
you will not be burned up;
the flames will not consume you.
3 For I am the Lord, your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. Isaiah 43:1-3

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Next Steps - Cancer Don't Mess with Texas

Posted by Jessica's Little Brother Chad


Cancer Don't Mess With Texas!



 
I honestly don't know where the phrase "Don't Mess with Texas" came from, but from everything we have read it is true! At least when it comes to cancer. For the lack of  better terms Jessica's doctors say that she, quite honestly, has a strange cancer. Their initial thoughts were that she had renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer) and while this may still be the case, the problem with this diagnosis is that historically 29 year old females don't get this kind of cancer. More test are being run on the biopsy this week before a final confirmation can made. Jessica and Jason will meet with her oncologist on Friday for possible updates or solutions

However, armed with this knowledge, we have started researching what out next steps will be Quite honestly, in my mind there is only one step for us from here, and that is to beat cancer. In order to get to that step, we as a family want to arm Jessica with every possible advantage. It is with this in mind that we have been researching for the absolute best hospital and doctors to take care of her. Currently we have set our sights on sending Jessica to MD Anderson In Houston Texas.  Here are some reasons why...
  • MDA is one of the largest cancer centers in the world. 
  • MDA focuses exclusively on cancer and have seen cases of every kind. Their doctors treat more rare cancers in a single day than most physicians see in a lifetime.
  • MDA has ranked as one of the top two hospitals in cancer care every year since U.S. News & World Report began its annual “America’s Best Hospitals” survey in 1990. 
  • MDA has more nurses per patient than many hospitals in the country. 
  • MDA is world-renowned for using and developing front-line diagnostic technology. That lets physicians pinpoint each patient’s unique cancer and tailor treatment for the best possible outcome. 
In addition MDA has 18 Surgical Oncologist Urologist on staff that see around 700 Renal Cell Cancer patients annually. 

We have prayed about this decision and God has already sent several confirmations that MD Anderson is the absolute best place for Jessica to go for treatment. With that said there are certainly huge logistical hurdles that need to be jumped to make this happen. As a family we have already started the process, but we can use you help. As Jessica's brother, I have set a goal of $5000 by next Friday to help with Jessica and Jason's first trip to Texas.  I ask that you prayerfully consider how you might also contribute to what we know will be continual and astronimical financial expenses for Jessica and her family throughout this journey.

 I have set up a fundraiser at this address  http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/help-to-fund-the-battle-/52452 or donations may also be made at local Charter Bank locations.  I anticipate their expenses are going to continue to rise as well as Jason only has six weeks paid leave.   I will update you in the future on their continuing physical, emotional, spiritual and financial needs.   Please give as you are able.  We greatly appreciate your loving care and support.

Additionally please stay plugged into our blog for more in the future, and as always remember us in your prayers.

Love in Christ,
Chad

8 comments:

  1. I feel for all of you as you continue this journey. This beast has hit all of our families and continues to do so. My prayers are with Jessica and your family. May God be with you. I love ya'll.

    ReplyDelete
  2. wow..I'm blown away by this news. Of course, we will keep every one of you in our prayers, How can I get your updates. Will they come to my email or what. Please let us know how to pray.Don and Sandra Gilbert

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you clicked on the Subscribe by email link below. I believe that you will receive an email after each new update. But I will also be very diligent to post each new update to Facebook as well.

      Thanks
      Chad Crowe

      Delete
  3. Jessica
    Please know our prayers, thoughts and love are with you and your family!!
    Cory, Landra and Kenadie

    ReplyDelete
  4. We are praying wide open for you and with God's help we can stand strong on our faith that he will heal you in the best possible way. We love you and will do what ever we can to help you and your family. J & T.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Jessica
    Louise and I are praying for you and we will continue to pray for you and keep you in our thoughts. Your family will also be in our thoughts and prayers.

    Judy Clarke and Louise Spranger

    ReplyDelete
  6. The Blackburn familyApril 18, 2013 at 4:51 AM

    Thank you for the updates. We are praying for Jessica and the rest of the family. Hugs and love from Raleigh.
    Tama & Stuart Blackburn

    ReplyDelete
  7. Jessica
    i am praying for you. i hope that your day is going good. i will keep praying for you and your family. you are a very special young lady that is loved by all that meet you. lots of love going your way.

    love mel

    ReplyDelete