Not Feeling Well

From Missy - I just heard that Kristi is already having some sickness from her first chemo treatment. Please pray for God's peace to flow over her and that the discomfort would pass quickly. Thanks!

5/28 from Kristi

Today is done! went well as things can go.... So now I hope for a restful sleep... Thanks for all the prayers again.... Tired so I think sleep will be coming sooner rather then later....

5/27 Update from Kristi

Woooow today was long, and tomorrow will be, too. I had my pic line put in, chest x-ray done, spoke with the doctor, and ran back and forth from one building to the next! Results came back as Hodgkin's, so this means chemo treatments every 2wks for 6months.... That is an answered prayer for sure! Another blessing is the 50% that MD Anderson covers also applies to meds! So that is great news as well...

My doctor gave me some meds to cut some of the pain from the pic line being put in so waiting for that to kick in... Tomorrow I have to go to a class to show how to take care/ clean my line out, another test with my breathing, 1st chemo treatment at 3:30 which will take 3 hours, and talking to some people in the administration department. Friday another class and hopefully home after that! God is good and definitly in the mix of things.

As I was getting the pic line done, I was lying there thinking. Thinking about all this time, as life passes us by, as we go through the motions, we hear of this person or that person who has cancer and feel sadness or a sense of grief for that person, or we see someone that is going through it by the sign of loss of hair, but that is where it stops. We don't really think beyond that, we never really have to, until we are in it. How many tests are involved, all the poking and prodding, the moments of pain, the tears that are shed, the receiving of the reality that all is out of our hands and you decide to solely trust God... I have a peace through all of this that God has me right where He wants me, and I know there is a purpose and plan in all things.. Sometimes I lie on the table feeling like a Guinea pig, thinking about how soon, very soon, I will have a bald head, how will people treat me, I don't want to be treated different or sickly... A tear will fall, and then I remember I laid it down, I laid it all down, for the joy of the Lord.... That is where I rest my head, in my Big Papa's hands.... Nighty night friends...

5/26 Oncology Appointment - Update from Kristi

Well, I met with the doctor today, and the great news is that I do not have it in my bones or in any organs! The preliminary came back but the doctor can't give me a definite answer yet on what kind of cancer it is until further information comes in, which we are hoping for tomorrow (the holiday delayed everything). He is leaning more towards Hodgkins though now, but he is still waiting. Tomorrow I will get my pic line put in and if it is Hodgkins will probably have my first chemo treatment as well.

He has filled me in on some of my life style changes that I will need to be aware of, and I'm trying to swallow the hair loss which will be 3weeks after the first treatment. So Jaclyn, we will probably need to chity chat soon! No more gardening for a while for me! Which anyone who knows me, knows that is a real bummer... No more walking around bare foot, or getting in the pool with my kiddos (because of the pic line they are putting in my arm) just things I guess ya just take for granted ya know! I know this is for a season, and all seasons have an end... Well, unless ya live in New Orleans or the south for that matter! haha If it's not Hodgkins and it is large cell lymphoma, I will have to be admitted to the hospital for 5 days for treatment ! So lets pray it's not that!

Wish I had more to say or tell, but just really happy right now it is not in my bones or organs! Thank you GOD.... Thanks again, for all the prayers and love and I will keep you updated as things progress! Much love sent to all.

A Thought to Ponder on this Beautiful Day!

This is a quote I saw on the Living Proof Ministry blog. I thought it was so inspiring, so I thought I'd share!
~Missy

"Quit living as if the purpose of life is to arrive safely at death. Grab life by the mane. Set God-sized goals. Pursue God-ordained passions. Go after a dream that is destined to fail without divine intervention. Keep asking questions. Keep making mistakes. Keep seeking God. Stop pointing out problems and become part of the solution. Stop repeating the past and start creating the future. Stop playing it safe and start taking risks. Expand your horizons. Accumulate experiences. Consider the lilies. Enjoy the journey. Find every excuse you can to celebrate everything you can. Live like today is the first day and last day of your life. Don't let what's wrong with you keep you from worshipping what's right with God. Burn sinful bridges. Blaze a new trail. Criticize by creating. Worry less about what people think and more about what God thinks. Don't try to be who you're not. Be yourself. Laugh at yourself. Quit holding out. Quit holding back. Quit running away. Chase the lion."

- Mark Batterson

Update from Kristi

Well, glad today is finally over! The last of the tests!Yeeeeea... I am tired, and trying to fight off this sinus headache! All went fine with the biopsy though so that is great news! Thank you all for your prayers, the support means sooo much! Just knowing you have so many people that care and that are walking with you in this means so much! Now looking forward to Tuesday to get results and get the plan in action.

Weekend Update from Kristi

Yesterday was a rough day for me, as my roller coaster journey of emotions has begun! My days truly are day to day, which is hard for me being that I like to plan and have things organized and structured. I seemed to get emotional with the simplest questions, which then in return makes me feel stupid so I'd cry again.... Just not a good day, but still have my peace that I am holding onto. That is what gets me through the day....

Today though, I think with sleep and journaling in my book, along with prayer is better.

*Next week on Tuesday (5/19) I go to meet for my consultation and with the anesthesiologist for my biopsy, so that will be an easy day. I decided to be put under since my last experience with my chest biopsy kinda overwhelmed me a bit - seeing everything the doctor was doing and hearing them talk, along with the monitor being on the other side of my face and feeling it... Yeah, wasn't my cup of tea! ;O) Then Wednesday I go in at 10:30, procedure will be at 12:30, and I should be out be 4:30. So please pray that this one will be a good biopsy and NOT get crushed!

*The following week on Tuesday (5/26) I have an appointment to meet with the doctor for my results of the bone marrow test, PET scan, cardio scan and biopsy. That is when we will find out what we are exactly dealing with and our plan of action! It won't surprise me if the doctor wants to get me in ASAP after that to start chemo, being that is what he was going to do before he realized the biopsy scheduling wouldn't be right away.

I went to the Relay for Life Friday night and a lady from the cancer association was talking to me. She said there was room on the platform for me and she would love for me to share my testimony/story/journey with cancer. She said it would give God so much glory, and thousands would be able to hear it. Anybody that knows me "knows" that I can not staaaaand getting up in front of people, especially people I do not know... It will have to be God orchestrated, and His timing that is for sure.... So, we will see... She said it would also be great to have someone that is my age up there as well, to touch lives and to remind people this fight is not just an age thing. It can happen to anyone. So pray with me in that please! Hope all have /had a wonderful weekend. It's good to be home with my family again.

Upcoming Plans from Kristi

Kristi sends this update today:

Today they are trying to schedule me for (next week)
Wed. :pre val & anesthesia consult for biopsy
Thurs.: biopsy
and the following week probl. Dr. apt. on Tues. (@ this apt. they will know what we are dealing with and the plan of action)
Please continue to be in prayer for God's hand in the decision making process and with the anesthesiologist.

Let's continue on in prayer :)

Glitch with Paypal / ChipIn

We had a small glitch with the Paypal system. For some reason the ChipIn was not sending the money to Kristi's account. If you donated before May 14th, your money is sitting in your Paypal account. Please cancel the transaction and resend via the ChipIn. Both accounts were reset and are working perfect. Thank you. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Update from Kristi - Day 2 at MD Anderson

Today was a really rough day. The usual bone marrow test is 10-15 minutes , but mine took almost an hour ! They did 2, one on each side and had to also take a biopsy of the marrow. My bones are also very good and thick so that took some time as well. I had a local , and needless to say, I won't be doing that again unless I am under. That huuuuuurt!

I met this older lady named Rose there who is also going to be having chemo done. God uses us in the everyday or should I say all/any situations! Go God, even in the midst of a not so good situation..... Supposed to be home for the weekend, looking forward to time with my family, gosh I miss them! I thank all of you again for your hearts and prayers, food for my family, help with my kids, and financial support. You have no idea how humbled I am by all of this, know idea at all..... be blessed...

An Update from Kristi - First Day at MD Anderson

Today was a busy day, the place is like a metropolis ! Wild and crazy stuff! I really like my Dr., and he reminds me of Hugh Grant with lighter hair! Nope, no English accent either... ;O) Today was just meeting with him, filling out papers and getting blood work done. He thinks it's either Hochkins or large cell lymphoma, but leaning more to "large cell". Tomorrow will be a day of testing. cardiograph (to make sure my heart is strong), bone marrow test (to make sure it's not in my bones, since this is cancer of the blood), and PET scan (to make sure I don't have it in any of my organs). Tonight dinner and tomorrows breakfast are no carbs or sugars and can not eat anything after 8am until PET test is over and that is for 4:30pm! Arrrrg [:o / I DO have to have another biopsy but that is not scheduled yet, but he is hoping for it to be Friday. He wants to have all these tests done ASAP so we can start chemo right away. Hope all had a blessed day! Tiiiiill next time...

p.s. from Missy - If you are like me, you are probably wondering what the prognosis is and what exactly will be involved in her treatment! It is still too early for them to say with certainty which type of lymphoma they are dealing with and to specify the exact treatment plan. So, let's continue to pray for clarity and wisdom for her doctors! I am encouraged and believe that our sweet Kristi is going to do great! We are with her every step of the way!

A Prayer for Kristi by Beth Varnado Luca

LORD, I lift up Kristi, as she enters the next week of testing.

I pray that you would provide her with the very best medical team there is at MD Anderson.

That not one cell of cancer would be over looked or missed.

Lord, use the great faith that Kristi has to impact those around her through the day to day and those who are watching from a distance.

Use the great faith you've given her to encourage those who are watching and praying who are already believers and to astonish the non-believers who are watching, so that your name may be glorified.

Lord, we ask that if it is your will, the medical team you provide will be a team of believers. A team that sees not with human eyes but through the eyes of faith. A team, who along with Kristi, are able to see past the "bad news" the test results may reveal to the gateway for a miracle. A team who believes all things are possible with our God. Mark 10:27

And Lord, more than anything else along this journey help us to remember that you are Sovereign. Let us remember and take comfort that you are Lord, the ultimate healer, the Great Physician, Jehovah-Rapha, THE GOD WHO HEALS and You are all we ever need.

We Praise Your Holy Name Jesus Forever and Ever, Amen

Ways to Help

We are trying to collect money to help with parking 12 to 15 dollars a day and get meals for her family while she's at MD Anderson. There is a donation link on this page (right hand side).

If you would like to provide a meal for her, but can't make or deliver it, contact Stephanie at 512.924.5321 or stephanie@denbighcherry.com. We have several people willing to cook and deliver.

Thanks!

An Update from Kristi - 5/12 Oncology Visit

I spoke with Kristi after her appointment, and she sounds really good! Here's the update she emailed me to send out.

o.k. this morning @ the appointment, we found out that the biopsy was inconclusive. They are going to need to take out a lymph node to do it. I have my appointment scheduled with MD Anderson tomorrow @ 1:00 and am expected to stay 5-7 dys. At my Dr. visit today they said the CAT scan of my lower abdomen showed a few swollen lymph nodes , but I was not shocked with this @ all. God is so good, that I didn't even need to pay for my Dr. visit today! It was stamped "Pyd" !!! Go GOD!!!! If yall don't know Him, ya need to, cause HE'S my banker.... Oh my gosh, another praise! (Our AC just went out in our car) Chris's uncle just called and told us not to worry, get it taken care of.... I am just in AWE!!!! And here is another "God Provision" Chris just received a call today with someone wanting to do a service contract with him , so he will be doing that on Thurs. ! I sooo thank everyone for the prayers that are and have been lifted up . God is faithful, HE is our provider, He is the Rock on which we are standing on. TO GOD BE THE GLLLLLLLORY!

Oncology Appointment Today

Kristi is headed to her oncologist appointment this morning. I believe that she'll get the biopsy results back today as well as the remainder of the body scan results.

She received a call from MD Anderson today as well. They let her know she would only be 50% covered. She was also informed that she would be there for 5 to 7 days when she goes there tomorrow (they will probably be doing the bone marrow biopsy and PET scan there). She will be treated as an out-patient. A relative has graciously given her mom a place to stay in Houston close to the hospital. Parking there is 12-15 dollars a day. We will open up her Care Calendar for the rest of the week once we know how long she is going to be there (there's a link on the right hand side of this page). You can donate to her account directly through her donation link on this page. Thank you!

Donations for the Berry Family

We are raising money to help Kristi Berry with medical bills, travel expenses, and anything else she may need during her fight against Lymphoma. All money goes into an account that they can personally access for any of their needs. May your kindness return to you in the same beautiful way it was given.

There is a donation button on the right hand side of this page, so please begin asking God how you can help. Thanks!

A Prayer for Kristi by Beth Varnado Luca

My Prayer of Peace for Kristi

LORD, I lift up Kristi, this precious child of yours.

I pray peace upon her and her family as they embark on this incomprehensible journey, your peace that surpasses all understanding - Philippians 4:7.

Let the peace that you give them and the provisions you grant be a shining testimony to all that you are bigger than anything of this world. Let your name be praised and your Son be glorified in this. For you are her God and you are Jehovah-Shalom, THE LORD OUR PEACE.

LORD, your word tells us that you shall supply all our needs according to your riches in glory in Christ Jesus - Philippians 4:19.

LORD, I pray that Kristi and her family not want for one thing; that not even one bill come into their home that you have not already provided for. Let Kristi and all those who know you take great comfort and rest in your power throughout this situation, that they may be a glorious testimony to you Jehovah-Jireh, THE LORD WILL PROVIDE.

Let all come to know that the God of Israel is the one and only true God, and that through Him, by way of the cross is salvation.

Let those who do not know you feel compelled to follow along in this journey to see if what we say is true. Cause them to hunger and thirst for you and make known to them through this journey that the unbearable, insatiable thirst and hunger they feel can only be quenched by You. Let there be clarity of mind as you draw them to You. And as they call out for you, dear Lord, I know you are faithful to give them the peace they seek just as you have given your peace to Kristi and to us.

Praise His Holy Name Forever and Ever, Amen

Update from Kristi

I thank yall so much for the prayers, speechless and moved! Prayer request is, Dr. apt with oncologist on Tues @ 10:15 , Appointment with MD Anderson on Wed., GOD"S hand in the financial aspect of this. We do not have insurance, so as you can imagine the bills will be coming in. I have to continually remind myself that God is my banker. I am choosing not to be consumed with fear and honestly that does not come easy for me when it comes to finances. He continues to grow me in this area, and continues to remind me that so many things are out of my control and totally in HIS. IT IS A CHOICE! This is the area that we def. need prayer in, for God's mighty hand and outstretched arm to be in this . My God made the heavens and they earth, He can move mountains, and I know how small this is to HIM. After all HE did part the Red Sea! Mighty is my GOD .... Mighty is He! Thanks for standing in the gap in my time of need, and for walking this walk with me and my family!

Updates from her FB Page

They found that it has spread. It is in her spleen and other places. They are waiting for a few more tests to see where all it has gotten to. Next week she will have a pet scan and a bone scan to see if it has gotten in to her bones. We are waiting to hear if the tests say it is Hodgkin's or non-Hodgkins.

She is headed home.

First Tests

Here is the update I sent out on the evening of May 7th.

Dear Friends,

As many of you know, Kristi is in the hospital undergoing tests due to a mass in her chest. Kristi has asked that I send out this message to update you on the latest news. I have tried to include those that know her through Celebration, but if I have included anyone who does not know her or left anyone off, please let me know. Also, please feel to pass this on to others that know Kristi who are not on Facebook.

Today her doctors took a biopsy of the mass and attempted to perform a whole body scan. There were some problems with the scan, so they were only able to assess the upper half of her body. Based on what they were able to see, the doctors believe they are dealing with a Hodgkin's type lymphoma that has spread throughout as much of the lymph system as they could see. In the coming days, they will perform a PET scan and bone marrow biopsy to gather more information and pathologists will analyze the biopsy results. The doctors need to determine the exact type of lymphoma and stage as well as to pinpoint exactly where it has spread. The next two weeks will be full of tests and there will likely be many decisions to be made.

Here are some specific things we can pray over:

* Pray for a complete healing.
* Pray for the testing process to go as smoothly as possible and for the doctors to make accurate interpretations of the results.
* Pray that Kristi will be accepted for Medicaid as she is not covered by health insurance
* Pray that MD Anderson, a cancer research hospital in Houston, will be able to take her case and begin her treatments soon.
* Pray for Kristi to continue to feel God's presence and power.
* Pray for her husband Chris, daughter Kolbi, and sons Sheth, Bailey, and Gage. Her children are homeschooled and her husband works on commission, so there are many aspects to cover in prayer.

Kristi has requested that friends continue to pray and to please feel free to post on her Facebook and send emails. She is overwhelmed, and as I'm sure you can imagine, her phone is ringing constantly. We should all refrain from calling her for the time being. Let's let her know we are here but also give her the rest she needs. I will send out updates as I get them. Thank you for praying for my friend.

Standing in Faith in Our God,
Missy

Swelling

Kristi noticed some swelling in her arm. She went to see her doctor who immediately sent her to the hospital. A mass the size of a baseball was found in her chest.