Monday, July 5

My Friend of 36 years

Many of my friends and regular readers will remember this photo of my friend Jo Ann and myself. This was taken last year just before Jo Ann and I left for the Charley Pride concert. She had the tickets given to her and had chosen to invite me along. I'm so glad I went because now Jo Ann is in critical condition.

Last December, Jo Ann was diagnosed as having cancer of the lower jaw. They operated December 23rd and the prognosis was she was cancer free. The health care system chose to believe that, even though the cancer had spread from her jaw to her lymph nodes. They didn't do anything else except take care of the jaw...no X-rays or tests to see if the cancer had spread.

About two weeks ago, I tried several times to reach my friend. No answer. This was very unusual because she has a big family and someone is usually home. I finally got her and she told me that she's been to the ER and several doctors in those three days. They had diagnosed her with cancer of the lungs. The right lung was full stage 4 and there was some cancer in her left lung as well. Terminal, they said.

Jo Ann was in the hospital for 3 days and then went out of town for an appointment with her cancer doctor. He sent her home and said they would talk about chemo on the next visit.

A few days later, Jo Ann was on oxygen at home. She was very weak and not doing well. She returned to hospital last Friday night around midnight. I've seen her several times since then and her siblings have flown in from eastern Canada and the USA.

Today I went to see her and once again the cancer has spread. It is now in her stomach and her liver. She told me the doctor has been bugging her to have chemo but she has no desire to do that. I told her it was her choice and that she needed to stick to her guns and do what she wanted to do.

I know the inevitable. My friend is going to pass from this earthly plane. I wonder how I will cope. We have talked at least 3 times a week for all those years... more often everyday. I'm not upset because I have lost many loved ones to cancer. I'm well aware of the circle of life. However, my one desire is that she not suffer.

Jo Ann is on morphine and resting comfortably. Please pray that she will continue to live out her life without the severe pain she was feeling a couple of weeks ago.

16 comments:

  1. JoAnn is in my thoughts and prayers. I'm so sorry. I understand your desire that she not be in pain, not suffer. Like you, I have seen many close ones suffer from cancer.

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  2. I'm so sorry. I remember when she had her surgery. I'll be praying for her and for you and the family s well.

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  3. I'm sorry that you are in the process of losing such a dear friend. From your description, I'd say she is very wise to forgo chemo, but I'm sure it's difficult for all concerned.

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  4. oh Mary and Jo Ann - I pray for you both - and to know she knows the Lord Jesus as her Saviour, and that you will see each other again -
    a friend for 36 years (and counting) - what an incredible blessing, and through the pain, He will bring her through the pain. much love♥

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  5. Oh Mary, I'm so sorry to hear this turn JoAnn has taken. I will be praying for rest and comfort for her and peace for you. take care sweet friend.

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  6. You know, dear Mary, you're in my thoughts as is your friend.

    YOU my dear have a heart of gold!!

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  7. I will keep her in my prayers. What a wonderful blessing to have such a special friendship. Hugs my friend.

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  8. When you have a friend that long and as close as you are, then it is like a sister. We will pray with you that she does not suffer. Peace be with you my friend.

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  9. I am so sad to hear this, Mary. And I am sad and a bit angry that the health care system has failed her in this way. And the president wonders why we don't want his health care system that he has devised. Sad!

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  10. I am so sorry about your friend. Cancer is such a mean disease. I pray for you and your friend.

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  11. I"m speechless.


    God Bless you both.

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  12. Pryaing for her comfort and ease. And yours as well...

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