My mother is not supposed to be diagnosed with an incurable disease. She’s not supposed to need a feeding tube and device to assist her speech. Not my mother. She’s supposed to live to 90 years old and meet each of my (future) children and sit at the head of the table for every Christmas meal.
But, apparently, it is happening to me. My mother was diagnosed, as we feared, with Progressive Bulbar Palsy, at the Phoenix Mayo Clinic last week. I’d never even heard of the disease until May, when my parents’ research regarding my mother’s symptoms listed Bulbar Palsy as a possible match.
Her excellent doctors at Mayo confirmed my parents’ suspicions, but, happily, reassured her that she is still in the initial stages, which means that she might have 2-3 years left with us on earth. There are also various measures she can take to increase her comfort. We’ll just have to wait and see what lies ahead in the goodness of Christ.
Katie,
I began to pray for your mother today, specifically for her miraculous recovery, but the Lord stopped me. Not from praying, but for my intention. I received the very strong thought that her recovery is not His Will. Why not? Heck, I don’t know. Why did she get sick in the first place? Why are you struggling to have a children? Why did I? Answers will not be had until we reach our eternal reward (good motivation for getting there!).
Anyway, I then reconsidered my prayer. What is the Lord willing? What can we ask for that is not outside of His Will? Peace. That is what He wills and what we need. So I will pray for peace. Peace in her heart, your father’s heart, your heart, and all of your siblings hearts. For the peace in one’s soul that brings joy out of the horrible of situations. And also for peace in your family, that your mother’s new journey will be a light to those in the darkness. May the Lord grant her the strength to use this evil for good. Certainly the lose of speech (song) is a great gift for your mother to offer Him. I will pray that she does so beaming brightly.
I am so sorry to hear your news, but, sad as it may be, knowing is better than not knowing. divinemercy (above) shared beautiful sentiments – I will try to echo her prayers.
Frances
Oh, sweet Katie. I am so very sorry. I don’t know that I have any words that will make you feel better but know that Dan and I will be remembering you and your loved ones in our prayers. If you need a friendly ear or just a hug please come over any time for a visit!
I’m so sorry, Katie. Praying for your mom and your entire family…
Katie, you know I’m here whenever you need to talk.
May God be with you and your family.
Katie,
Be assured of our prayers for you mother, and your entire family. I must say that in working with patients who have debilitating conditions requiring any number of interventions, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve recognized the Spirit of the Lord in these poor patients. It’s as if one could recognize Christ in their suffering and be moved to care for them as you would care for a child. Hearts of stone crack and break open at the sight and thought of those who suffer. So, basically, while your mother may go through a difficult time, she will bear Christ to souls who may be in dire need of Him through the dignity inherent in her gift of life. All the while, I can only imagine the difficulty of watching someone you love go through such an illness. Frances and I love you Katy and Devon. Peace be with you,
David
Dear everyone,
Thank you so much for your kind words and prayers. I want affirm all of your words about the Lord’s gift of this illness. I, also, feel that Our Lord’s gift will not be a cure but will be great fruitfulness through suffering. My mother’s suffering might be the only way that various members of my family can be converted and saved, hearts softened, and relationships healed.
It has been amazing watching the way that my parents’ love, always so vibrant, is being even more deeply purified and strengthened; there were moments that they almost shone when they looked at each other when I was with them in June. Our Lord desires our good even more deeply than we do, and I know this illness is part of His great goodness.
Hi Cat! I mean, Katie! It’s Trish Powers here – you’re ole roomie
. I’ve been lurking on and off since I ran into Adrian Reimers and he gave me an update on your life and marriage to this fine young man! I was able to come across this website via google, or perhaps something Dr. Reimers gave me.
Anyway, I could no longer stay “lurking” as I came across this post. I am SO sorry to hear the news of your mom’s illness. You may remember that I was a hospital chaplain and I work with medical ethics, so I know the challenges and difficulties something like this presents. I also know the amazing Graces that come from what seem to be the most awful of situations – and I’m glad to know that you are resting comfortably in the peace and consolation of our Lord.
And, if I may “catch up” all in one post, please know of my IMMENSE joy for you and Devin on your marriage, and for the life you are building together
. We should stay in touch -
love ya,
t.
I’m so sorry for the news about your mom. Please know that she, you and your family will be in our prayers–that God give you the graces you need to endure His holy will.