Mountain Removed: New Life and New Beginnings!!!

Dear Victorious and Faithful Friends,




The Monday after this past Christmas, I received a pathology report stating that I had breast cancer. Today, the Monday after Easter (Resurrection Day), I received the results of the PET scan from last week...no metastasis!!! Jesus was born to take our sins, heal our diseases and provide a way for us to be with Him throughout eternity. I do not believe in coincidences. The report declaring the resolution of cancer coming today is just another example of how my God speaks, and I believe He is saying to all of us that His resurrection makes "New Life and New Beginnings" possible, whether a disease needs to be eradicated or our sins need to be wiped away. Today is the day of "New Life and New Beginnings." Let's seize this gift by giving ourselves unreservedly to Jesus, accepting His free gift of salvation in its fullest measure!!!





Many Praises!



I continue to follow Peace no matter the pressure applied to my soul to do otherwise.



This morning I typed out, "The PET scan came back negative." I declared the good report in obedience to a prompting of His Spirit before I physically received the report of no metastasis to any other place in my body!!!



I have resumed my regular work schedule and duties.



Strongman and I celebrated the Passover Seder last Thursday with some dear friends (Thank you, Dave and Lori). This celebration was of special significance to me as I am a living example of the "Death Angel passing over."



I received the second MRSA culture results this morning, which came back as negative. I am officially clear of infection as per Pinnacle Health System policy!



My lifestyle has dramatically changed. I now exercise at least 5 days a week, walking/running 3 miles (5 K) each day. Dairy has been eliminated from my diet , as well as, processed sugar, caffeine, and butter/margarine. My meat (animals that walk on land) intake has been severely restricted, while I am blessed to enjoy salmon three times a week.



My new oncologist has described himself as "a worker bee in the hands of God." I'm not sure if he has a personal relationship with Jesus, but he does respect my beliefs.



It's wonderful to feel great and have some energy! This in itself has been a miraculous transformation as I have been a "tired person" since my teens. The cause of my fatigue was most probably "estrogen dominance." Which is being treated by my change in diet and exercise. http://www.estrogendominanceguide.com/symptoms-of-estrogen-dominance-in-women



Strongman has encouraged me to stand in what my heart tells me in regards to further treatment and gives me a complimentary viewpoint with his logical, left-brained way of thinking. He has the ability to see through the fog to the point of an issue. Since I tend to process with my heart, he balances me.



Continued Prayer

The PET scan did show some esophageal irritation, which I'm thinking is due to the stress of two surgeries, the infection, and all the Motrin I was taking for pain relief. I took Motrin, because the narcotic made me "loopy." ;) The oncologist wants me to take Tums with calcium before supper each day. I was just asking Jesus over the weekend if I was getting enough calcium in my diet. I love the way He answers me.



The blood results were normal and according to the doctor, "You are no where close to menopause." I take this as a praise, but in the doctor's eyes this is not good. As long as my ovaries pump out estrogen, the chance of reoccurrence of cancer is higher. I want God's direction on this, ovaries release different types of estrogen, some of which are cancer preventative.



My next surgery will be in July, please pre-pray against complications. I don't want any more infections!



Thank you all for standing with me. "Beautiful" is the only word that can describe the support I have received throughout this season of trial. Jesus has shown me that with Him, we can have peace no matter what circumstances envelope us, and in that peace, His power is released!!!



With Much Love Always...

Beautiful Grace :)



P.S. The attachment shows some of my flowers. I choose them because yellow signifies a gift from God and the red stripes are symbolic for the stripes Jesus took for my healing. Be blessed my friends!!!



Mountain Removal: "The Death Angel has Passed Over, Celebrate!"

Dear Persevering and Anointed Friends,



Yesterday, two specialists gave their opinions regarding my current "trial."

During the first appointment, the plastic surgeon looked at my left graft site and declared quietly, that it was dead, and I would lose it. Last Wednesday, my breast surgeon apologized several times, saying that she was sorry, but that the tissue was dead and will be lost. By all medical accounts, this tissue is dead. The medical term for dead tissue is termed necrosis. Necrotic tissue is black, hard, immovable...lifeless. As a nurse, looking at the tissue with physical eyes, I agree with their assessment, BUT I have been declaring life over this dead tissue. If Jesus can raise a dead man (Lazarus), why can't He bring life to a little bit of dead tissue?


Since last week, I have seen this dead tissue puff back up, and am now even seeing pink, healthy tissue at its base and up the side. Yes, God still needs to bring this dead tissue life, but I am seeing the first fruits of declaring life!!!! Praise be to my Beautiful Friend!!!!

Hebrews 11:1 (New King James Version)

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

During the second appointment, the oncologist interpreted the pathology reports on the tissue taken from the left breast in detail. Apparently, the previously unknown cancer is fed by my own estrogen, progesterone, and HER-2/NEU (a genetic mutation of the human growth hormone). The doctor is questioning the HER-2/NEU positive status, because it is generally not seen in this type of cancer, and dramatically changes the course of his recommended treatment. The cancer tissue has been sent to California for specific testing of its 21 genes, one of which is the HER-2/NEU. 


If, indeed, the tissue is HER-2/NEU positive, then the new biolytic agent known as Herceptin will be prescribed. After sharing my research on this drug with Strongman, his response was, "Yea, real nice stuff. Sounds like something I would give to off someone." (See link for information on why Strongman said this).



Out of curiosity, the doctor asked how I came to decide to have the left breast removed. I repeated to him, what I typed above and also, said I was not at peace with the Tamoxifen treatment. His respectful reply, "That's not logical." I quietly replied, "Faith isn't always logical." I think this shook him a little, because He whole-heartedly believes I need to take Tamoxifen (See link for information on why I am uncomfortable with this).


Chemotherapy...the cancer they found was 6 mm (very tiny), but invasive in that it had broken through the milk duct into the surrounding tissue where it could have had contact with my bloodstream, possibly sending rogue cancer cells any where else in my body. Chemotherapy is generally not recommended is for cancer 6 mm or less, the HER-2/NEU status will play an important part in the doctor's recommendation for or against chemotherapy.



The "incidental" finding of cancer in this tissue, was definitely a God-ordained act. It was God who gave me peace to go with the bilateral mastectomy. I listened to the doctors, prayed, and had MANY praying for me, and came to a decision based on peace. We all know why God led the way to the double mastectomy; to remove the unknown cancer and to make His glory to be made manifest through me.



Obviously, please pray that the staining test (a very subjective test) used to determine the original HER-2/NEU status was inaccurate and that on the genetic level (more precise) the Her 2 status would be NEGATIVE.

Wouldn't it be awesome if the California genetic pathologists would determine that the cells are actually benign? The mucinous cell can either be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). If my oncologist questions the validity of the HER-2/NEU positive status, why not let's find out that the actual cancer diagnosis is incorrect. Let's pray it into reality!!!

Continue to declare life from death for the tissue in question the left side, I am seeing life return!!! Praise the Lord Who holds me in the palm of His hand!!!!

Wisdom and continued peace. Also, for God to make each step and responsibility of my healing apparent. I want Him to make all decisions regarding my whole life, not only this small part of it!!! My desire is to co-operate with Him, not blindly live my life by human wisdom.

I had a rough night of intense chest muscle spasms Sunday night into Monday. I was feeling so good on Sunday, that I only took one muscle spasm pill instead of the normal four. The med I am on should be weaned off slowly, not cold turkey, and as a nurse I should have know better. :( On Monday, I was drained, tired, and very sore from the previous night, which affected me emotionally.




The best part...PRAISES!!!!!


My dear and true friend Patti B. prayed for me on Monday as I shared my heart and my physical pain with her. She declared life and healing. And even after viewing the dead tissue (she's a nurse too), refused to believe in what she saw physically and continued to stand with me for life from death. How much better a friend can a person have? :)

Since Monday, the pink tissue is increasing and is overtaking the necrotic tissue...yea, Life overcomes death!!!!

I am thoroughly enjoying home schooling my Fire (who sets a warrior example for me) without the pressure to get done before leaving for work. Sorry, PPI friends; I do Love you though!!!!



I am worshipping Jesus freely with my whole body; I have no limitations and complete range of motion, which continues to surprise every doctor I see.
The Lord has continued to open up doors for me in order to encourage others going through similar circumstances. I even have made contact with a lovely lady from Florida who just had brain surgery. Many of you may not know that I had brain surgery 23 years ago. That particular trial and how God guided me through is still encouraging people 23 years later. PRAISE, PRAISE, PRAISE!!!

Yesterday, I received an email from Chuck Pierce regarding Passover and the statement, "Passing over into a season of Triumph!" Immediately I heard, "The Death Angel has passed over you. Celebrate!" I proceeded to call my friend Lori N. and ask if we could celebrate the Passover Feast with her family in April. Lori said, "Yes!" :)

Last night, I slept in my bed for the first time since my surgery, freely moving on my back and from side to side without one single chest muscle spasm. YES!!!!

I continued to be overwhelmed (in a good way) by the Love, support (emotional and physical) and prayers by friends, family, the Body of Christ (through many churches in unity) and people from my community and the world (through my Internet connections).

I marvel at how God takes a difficult situation and uses it to propel us into our destiny. For months preceding the diagnosis, I prayed for God to stir up my heart's embers of passion for Him and for His people again. He answered my prayer. Oh, how I Love Your ways, Abba!!!!

I praise God for discovering like-minded, passionate lovers of Jesus through this trial by fire. I am blessed by you!!! (Elise J.)

For those of you who read these updates with struggles of your own, please be encouraged! There is a God Who cares about everything that hurts you. He desires for you to open Your heart to His great Love for you. I am a living testimony to what His Love can accomplish!!! I will be forever grateful...Thank You, Jesus!




With Much Love ALWAYS...


Beautiful Grace :)

Dear, Faithful Friends,


I am not able to do stairs at the moment, but my sweet Strongman has set up a temporary computer system here in my living room. I didn't have all the email addresses, so I hadn't sent out a mass update, but Tony just uploaded my addresses, so here it goes.

In one word...JESUS!!! Surgery went fantastic, the graft appears healthy (yea), the range of motion in my arms is weeks ahead of schedule (can't wait to start dancing again), and I was discharged on Friday morning. The only bump in the road was on Sunday, I started becoming nauseated and lethargic and eventually couldn't keep anything down. I ended up being readmitted to the hospital for IV fluids. Apparently, my toleration of narcotics is minimal. My BP was dangerously low. I told the girl wheeling me to my room to watch me for signs of seizure activity, because I felt as though one was very close.

I was discharged yesterday afternoon after I proved I could eat and keep it down. I am managing my pain on mostly Tylenol and less than half of the narcotics. Still need the Valium at 1/2 to 1/4 of the dose to manage the muscle cramps, but really I am doing well!!!

BUT enough of me. I was able to pray for my night shift nurse who was having pain in her knee d/t degeneration. She cried because I prayed. My surgeon walked in on me as I was worshiping (with headsets on) my hands raised to Jesus. :) I've told so many people how Jesus has given me peace through out this ordeal. I could go on and on and on. Satan meant to shut me up, BUT my mouth is speaking more and more for Jesus, so he (the evil one) might as well give up!!!! :)

The immediate prayer request is for the left graft site. It appears to be becoming necrotic (dying). Please speak life over it. Necrosis can spread and cause infection, and I won't have it in Jesus' name. I WILL NOT REMAIN SILENT!!!

Today I received a blessing that made me cry uncontrollably. When Jesus heart is manifested through His people, I can't help but to weep. I feel so loved, more love that can be contained, that it has to overflow my eyes!!! Jesus, You are beautiful through Your people. Thank you, Beautiful iBeJulio's Momma! I Love you and I Love your family!


Another one of my faithful praying friends, "Pure-Hearted Intercessor", gave me the most wonderful gift today. As she was interceding for me, she opened her eyes to find a white feather on her left knee. For those of you who know me intimately, you know Jesus gives me feathers as a sign of His Love and protection. My friend will be presenting the feather to me as a beautiful gift from my Jesus.


How is it possible that one woman can be so blessed? Only by Jesus!!!!


I will not trust in the horses and chariots of men, but I will trust in my God, Who covers me with His wings and hides me in His shadow. A lovely place to be...ALWAYS!!!!


Thank you for praying, standing and loving me!!!


With Much Love ALWAYS...


Beautiful Grace

Removal of the Mountain-The Richest Woman in the World

Hello, Cherished Ones,



I saw the plastic surgeon this morning, and have decided to proceed with the surgery on February 3rd. I will, at any time until then, change the plan if God directs it.



I want to remind you all again, that if you feel the Lord placing anything on your heart in regards to this situation, please share it with me. You never know when you might be the one to confirm something the Lord has already spoken to my heart.



I cannot thank you all enough for your support through prayers, calls, cards, words, and my personal favorite, hugs and kisses. :)



On Sunday morning my Facebook status was, "I'm the richest woman in the world." This trial has been one of revelation for me, so much so, that I don't even see it as a "trial." Jesus has taken what the evil one has meant for destruction and has used it to reignite my fiery passion for people and my desire to see them love Jesus with all of their hearts!!! My situation has given me numerous opportunities to speak of the Awesome God I Love!!!



While on the way to church on Sunday morning, I heard the "Revelation Song" on the radio, and thought to myself how much I wanted to sing that song in worship again. Guess what song I heard the worship team practicing as I walked into CCC? You guessed it, the "Revelation Song." Anyone who saw me as I walked into the building would have seen the hugest smile on my face. My soul is so rich with blessings from my Jesus, that I am overflowing!!!



Thank you all for holding me up in prayer. It is working!!!



With Much Love...

Beautiful Grace, aka, The Richest Woman in the World!!!

Ephesians 3:7-9 (Amplified Bible)

Of this [Gospel] I was made a minister according to the gift of God's free grace (undeserved favor) which was bestowed on me by the exercise (the working in all its effectiveness) of His power.

To me, though I am the very least of all the saints (God's consecrated people), this grace (favor, privilege) was granted and graciously entrusted: to proclaim to the Gentiles the unending (boundless, fathomless, incalculable, and exhaustless) riches of Christ [wealth which no human being could have searched out],

Also to enlighten all men and make plain to them what is the plan [regarding the Gentiles and providing for the salvation of all men] of the mystery kept hidden through the ages and concealed until now in [the mind of] God Who created all things by Christ Jesus.

Removal of the Mountain- Hearing God's Voice

Peace, Sweet Peace!  Experiencing Peace in the midst of a diagnosis of breast cancer seems unrealistic, but possible.  My soul has been at Peace during the process of sorting through mountains of information regarding the treatment options.  Thank You, Jesus!!!  Since my natural personality tends to worry, I can only say that the Peace I am experiencing is miraculous!

The treatment options laid out before me include a lumpectomy followed by radiotherapy (5 days a week for 5 weeks) combined with Tamoxifen (5 years). 

While reading about the common and not so common side effects of the Tamoxifen, I broke down; immediately, I turned away from man's knowledge and cried out to God for Him.  I was not about to lose the awesome Peace I had been experiencing.

The surgeon also proposed another option of double mastectomy, thus eliminating the need for follow up radiotherapy and Tamoxifen.

At this point, the lumpectomy that had been scheduled  is canceled, and I am awaiting an appointment with the plastic surgeon. I want to know all of my options before proceeding!  The appointment is January 24th, if you want to pray.  :)

Breast cancer has not been the only serious diagnosis I have been given.  Twenty-three years ago, I was diagnosed with an arteriovenous malformation  (similar to an aneurysm) located in my left frontal cortex (left front portion of my brain). 

I had been experiencing severe headaches due to the pressure the AVM was placing on the surrounding brain tissue, and it had started to leak, which caused a seizure.

As penned in the post, "What Then is Love?" grim predictions were given...if I chose not to have surgery, “don’t lift more than five pounds, don’t get constipated, don’t sneeze or cough,” the neurosurgeon advised. In addition, the unthinkable, “You will not be able to have children, and even with these precautions, the AVM could possibly rupture anyway causing coma or death. If you choose to have the surgery, there will be six months, at least, of slurred speech, a very high possibility of short-term memory loss, possibly long-term memory loss, right-sided weakness, and if it went sour... coma or death,” the surgeon reported.

Not having a clue what to do, I was extremely upset!!  I had never experienced fear to that intensity previously.  After receiving the report of the ct scan at work, I was so scared that I needed to leave mid shift. 

I had heard of people experiencing miraculous healing and believed that God sometimes chooses to heal in that way, but I was desperate to hear God, let Him tell me what to do, how to proceed.  I was sitting on my bedroom floor with the TV turned to the 700 Club.  As the ticker tape like prayer line number scrolled across the bottom of the screen, I decided to call for prayer.

The faith-filled man I spoke with declared miraculous healing, "God will heal you without surgery."  I whole-heartedly believed that this was God's answer to my dilemma, but God's plan took a different path.

As I listened to the prayer warrior, from behind me I felt a cool breeze on my back.  I then felt (not seen, but felt) a hand placed between my ear and the phone's receiver, muffling the man's voice.  In my other ear, I heard another voice loud and clear, "Bellann, have the surgery.  I will take care of you."  I thanked the man for praying and then hung up the phone.

I thought, I think I just heard the voice of God.  The next thing I realized was that ALL of the fear I had been experiencing was totally gone.  I was experiencing the peace that surpasses all understanding.  The God of the universe had just audibly directed my path!!!

And God did take care of me!!!  I experienced none of the side effects predicted by the doctors!!!  I moved in such Peace that a fellow nursing student told me after my surgery that she thought I had been in denial of the gravity of the situation.  :)

I am retelling this story to you now, because I want to make it perfectly clear.  God will direct my path now as He did twenty-three years ago!

Lord, You know all things, beginning and end. You have promised to direct my paths, because I recognize and acknowledge Your sovereignty!!!  Cancer is like a cold to You (taken from Pastor Dave Hess).  You are the One I trust.  Thank You for the knowledge You pour out through man, but ultimately, my trust remains firm in You!!!  AMEN!!!

My ears are open...