"So it is the night before surgery...what are you thinking?"
I am tired and I really think I will be able sleep. Do not worry about me, I will be fine. Sleep well friends.
9.28.2006
9.27.2006
God is good....All the time
So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. Hebrews 5: 16
Every time I get my mail, I open my email, I check my facebook, my phone or doorbell rings there is someone encouraging me, telling me that they are praying for me along with their church and/or small group or offering financial support. I am so thankful for each and everyone of you reading this right now. I may not have my biological parents, but I have an enormous support system through the body of Christ. I am glad that I do not have to experience it any other way.
God is good, I don't know any other way to put it. I literally cannot fathom the amount of debt that I would be accruing if it were not for Him. I also cannot thank anyone who has given to any fund enough. If it were not for you my health would continue to deteriorate and I could possibly lose my life to this tumor. THANK YOU.
Again God is good. Tuesday morning I was told if I did not break the fever I had for 3 days by Wednesday my surgery would be cancelled. Well, I am happy to let you know my fever has not went above 98.4 degrees all day.
There are a few things that most of you do not know about that I would like for you to lift up in prayer.
1. A very good friend of mine is traveling in from Boston in the morning. I ask that we pray for safe travel and a good night's sleep because his flight leaves around 5 a.m.
2. This morning I found out that my great uncle Ronnie passed away. My brother and I cared for him deeply. We did not get to see him often, but we did see him for Jake's graduation party and I was able to speak to him just a week ago. He was very hurt when he heard of my tumor. His services will probably be Saturday, which means I will be unable to attend and that really hurts me. I wish that I could be there. I ask that you please remember our family during this time.
There is so much more I could write, but I should be getting to sleep. Thank you EVERYONE for EVERYTHING.
Every time I get my mail, I open my email, I check my facebook, my phone or doorbell rings there is someone encouraging me, telling me that they are praying for me along with their church and/or small group or offering financial support. I am so thankful for each and everyone of you reading this right now. I may not have my biological parents, but I have an enormous support system through the body of Christ. I am glad that I do not have to experience it any other way.
God is good, I don't know any other way to put it. I literally cannot fathom the amount of debt that I would be accruing if it were not for Him. I also cannot thank anyone who has given to any fund enough. If it were not for you my health would continue to deteriorate and I could possibly lose my life to this tumor. THANK YOU.
Again God is good. Tuesday morning I was told if I did not break the fever I had for 3 days by Wednesday my surgery would be cancelled. Well, I am happy to let you know my fever has not went above 98.4 degrees all day.
There are a few things that most of you do not know about that I would like for you to lift up in prayer.
1. A very good friend of mine is traveling in from Boston in the morning. I ask that we pray for safe travel and a good night's sleep because his flight leaves around 5 a.m.
2. This morning I found out that my great uncle Ronnie passed away. My brother and I cared for him deeply. We did not get to see him often, but we did see him for Jake's graduation party and I was able to speak to him just a week ago. He was very hurt when he heard of my tumor. His services will probably be Saturday, which means I will be unable to attend and that really hurts me. I wish that I could be there. I ask that you please remember our family during this time.
There is so much more I could write, but I should be getting to sleep. Thank you EVERYONE for EVERYTHING.
9.26.2006
Preparation Day
Today I go in for my preop appointment. I do not really know what to expect. I know my blood will be drawn again and I know that I will need to be able to aim (I will let you figure that one out)! Other than that I am without a clue.
Also, my emotions are really starting to take a toll on me. I simply do not feel like Angie anymore. I have never struggled with this before and it is turning into anger. Not anger at any specific person or even God, just the situation.
On a brighter note, my dad's nurse was able to get some of his records. I was told that the records were long gone, but some how she was able to get her hands on them. I am very interested in seeing how my dad's brain tumor and mine compare.
A HUGE SHOUT OUT TO THE BIG MAN UPSTAIRS!!! God provided the funds that I needed upfront for my surgery in less than one week. If you don't believe in miracles or God, I think it may be time to start.
Also, my emotions are really starting to take a toll on me. I simply do not feel like Angie anymore. I have never struggled with this before and it is turning into anger. Not anger at any specific person or even God, just the situation.
On a brighter note, my dad's nurse was able to get some of his records. I was told that the records were long gone, but some how she was able to get her hands on them. I am very interested in seeing how my dad's brain tumor and mine compare.
A HUGE SHOUT OUT TO THE BIG MAN UPSTAIRS!!! God provided the funds that I needed upfront for my surgery in less than one week. If you don't believe in miracles or God, I think it may be time to start.
9.22.2006
A few days into it...
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I ask that you pray for two friends of mine, I just heard that they were in a serious car accident. I don't know any details, but their trust in the Lord is amazing.
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A few days have passed and I feel that news has "started" to sink in. But, I do not ever feel that it really will, not even after surgery. Brain tumors have been such a big part of my life and the term has been thrown around like any other "sickness," such as the common cold.
Along the way I have had a few irritating factors arise, such as my finger, leg cramp, and now my glands on my left side are swollen. But, don't you worry. All issues have been addressed and the doctor retrieved more of my precious blood today.
I am very excited for the evenings events. I was invited over for dinner at my best friend's father-in-law's, aka Scott's dad's. I like that guy and I do not get to see him often. I wish I was a bit more perky for the night, but a little bit of blood being drawn wiped me out.
I feel that my last post was kind of a downer. I am sorry. I want this blog to be real and I was not feeling very positive that day. I learned a lot of information that I was hoping would miraculously disappear. I still believe God will heal me and it looks like he will be using the doctors to do so.
I ask that you pray for two friends of mine, I just heard that they were in a serious car accident. I don't know any details, but their trust in the Lord is amazing.
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A few days have passed and I feel that news has "started" to sink in. But, I do not ever feel that it really will, not even after surgery. Brain tumors have been such a big part of my life and the term has been thrown around like any other "sickness," such as the common cold.
Along the way I have had a few irritating factors arise, such as my finger, leg cramp, and now my glands on my left side are swollen. But, don't you worry. All issues have been addressed and the doctor retrieved more of my precious blood today.
I am very excited for the evenings events. I was invited over for dinner at my best friend's father-in-law's, aka Scott's dad's. I like that guy and I do not get to see him often. I wish I was a bit more perky for the night, but a little bit of blood being drawn wiped me out.
I feel that my last post was kind of a downer. I am sorry. I want this blog to be real and I was not feeling very positive that day. I learned a lot of information that I was hoping would miraculously disappear. I still believe God will heal me and it looks like he will be using the doctors to do so.
9.20.2006
Appointment #3
I am sure you all have been watching diligently for this post. Well, here it goes...
I will be having brain surgery on Sept. 29th. Sounds like fun doesn't it?
We have a little bit more detail, but not all of our questions are answered. Some of those questions will not be answered until after surgery. The doctor still believes it is a lower grade tumor, but it does need to be removed.
I know you are all concerned and I understand. But I am very tired from today's news and events. I ask that you please hold off your calls until tomorrow. I will randomly check my blog throughout the night, so that is the best way to get a hold of me. Thank you so much for your prayers.
I will be having brain surgery on Sept. 29th. Sounds like fun doesn't it?
We have a little bit more detail, but not all of our questions are answered. Some of those questions will not be answered until after surgery. The doctor still believes it is a lower grade tumor, but it does need to be removed.
I know you are all concerned and I understand. But I am very tired from today's news and events. I ask that you please hold off your calls until tomorrow. I will randomly check my blog throughout the night, so that is the best way to get a hold of me. Thank you so much for your prayers.
In preparation...
I know most of you realize that I will be finding out some pretty BIG news today. I ask that you pray the boldest prayers you have ever prayed. I am so scared. As I type tears have already started to come down my face. I know the Lord will bring me comfort and He will heal me even if He uses my doctors to do so. But, this is such a scary time for me being in the unknown.
~Don't worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4: 6-7
My appointment is at 12:45 p.m.
~Don't worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4: 6-7
My appointment is at 12:45 p.m.
9.19.2006
Christian Campus House: Angie Rhoads Fundraiser
I tend to be a worrier, especially when it comes to my finances. So when I first heard of my diagnosis, typically one would think of their overall well-being, my thought was "how the heck am I going to afford brain surgery." You can ask Jenna Wright, when I finally understood what was going on after my seizure all I was trying to do is remember if I had health insurance.
I am a very independent person. So this experience has really turned my world upside down. I cannot do anything on my own *literally*, which includes paying for my surgery, emergency room visits, medicine, doctor's bills, anesthesiologists and attorney fees.
The CCH is an amazing organization that has come beside me through so many difficult times. There are not words to express the gratitude I have for it as an organization and for the individuals who make it up. Its efforts continue to amaze me.
Please as you pray, consider supporting me through the Christian Campus House.
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As many of you know, Angie Rhoads has recently been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Angie has been an active part of our ministry for four years, serving as a leader and working as an office assistant. Many people have been blessed because of her life. Angie is 22 years old and was on schedule to graduate this December with a degree in Public Relations.
We are wanting to come together as a ministry to help her financially. Her dad passed away from a brain tumor when she was young and her mom passed away when Angie was 18. Angie has a younger brother who is living in Lee's Summit with a family who took them in when their mom passed away.
Angie has insurance through CMSU, but she has already maxed out the $10,000 through her ER visits and scheduled tests. Angie is not eligible for Medicaid due to her "adult" age, only if she is disabled, and/or her prognosis becomes worse, or other conditions enter into the picture. At this point that is not the case.
There is a financial aid program through St. Lukes that could possibly cover 75% of her costs. They have begun the application process, but at this point she has not been approved. Even if she qualifies, it doesn't pay the 25% that they requested upfront for the surgery. The upfront cost for the surgery is $15,750.
Today, she goes in for some more tests. She will have a follow-up appointment on Wednesday where they will hopefully schedule the surgery. They told her to expect the surgery within a couple of weeks.
What an incredible opportunity to come together as the body of Christ to help bless Angie. She has been through so much with the loss of her parents and yet has chosen to remain faithful to God. Even through her brain tumor, she has chosen to use this as a testimony for God.
Please send all tax-deductible gifts to Christian Campus House. 211 S. Maguire. Warrensburg, MO 64093. Please put "Angie" in the memo. If you have any further questions, please contact Jon or Jenna at the Campus House. (660-747-8723)
In Him,
CCH Staff
Jon Ralls and Jenna Wright
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I am a very independent person. So this experience has really turned my world upside down. I cannot do anything on my own *literally*, which includes paying for my surgery, emergency room visits, medicine, doctor's bills, anesthesiologists and attorney fees.
The CCH is an amazing organization that has come beside me through so many difficult times. There are not words to express the gratitude I have for it as an organization and for the individuals who make it up. Its efforts continue to amaze me.
Please as you pray, consider supporting me through the Christian Campus House.
***********************************************************
As many of you know, Angie Rhoads has recently been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Angie has been an active part of our ministry for four years, serving as a leader and working as an office assistant. Many people have been blessed because of her life. Angie is 22 years old and was on schedule to graduate this December with a degree in Public Relations.
We are wanting to come together as a ministry to help her financially. Her dad passed away from a brain tumor when she was young and her mom passed away when Angie was 18. Angie has a younger brother who is living in Lee's Summit with a family who took them in when their mom passed away.
Angie has insurance through CMSU, but she has already maxed out the $10,000 through her ER visits and scheduled tests. Angie is not eligible for Medicaid due to her "adult" age, only if she is disabled, and/or her prognosis becomes worse, or other conditions enter into the picture. At this point that is not the case.
There is a financial aid program through St. Lukes that could possibly cover 75% of her costs. They have begun the application process, but at this point she has not been approved. Even if she qualifies, it doesn't pay the 25% that they requested upfront for the surgery. The upfront cost for the surgery is $15,750.
Today, she goes in for some more tests. She will have a follow-up appointment on Wednesday where they will hopefully schedule the surgery. They told her to expect the surgery within a couple of weeks.
What an incredible opportunity to come together as the body of Christ to help bless Angie. She has been through so much with the loss of her parents and yet has chosen to remain faithful to God. Even through her brain tumor, she has chosen to use this as a testimony for God.
Please send all tax-deductible gifts to Christian Campus House. 211 S. Maguire. Warrensburg, MO 64093. Please put "Angie" in the memo. If you have any further questions, please contact Jon or Jenna at the Campus House. (660-747-8723)
In Him,
CCH Staff
Jon Ralls and Jenna Wright
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Spectroscopy/Fancy MRI
Yesterday morning I had, what I will just call, a fancy MRI. I am so happy that I do not have to go through that again. I don't really know how to explain it. It was very loud, confined, uncomfortable and long. Tears started to slowly come out when I was in the machine, but I knew that I was unable to move. But, before the technician was able to fully get me out of the machine I was in tears. I don't know if the technician knew how to react, but I couldn't control it. I may post more later today.
9.18.2006
Appointment #2
I leave in just 15 minutes to head down to St. Luke's for my tests. I would tell you the name of it, but I can barely pronounce it let alone spell it. I am not too nervous, pretty much I am just looking forward to coming back home and going back to sleep this afternoon. I know, I feel very old.
If you did not get a chance please look at "A Dream Come True," I am very excited about my photos.
If you did not get a chance please look at "A Dream Come True," I am very excited about my photos.
9.16.2006
A Dream Come True
I cannot explain how amazing last night was not only did I have most of my best friends there I got to meet some of the Royals and the man that has my dream job (PR). I was doing my best not to embarrass myself but only occasionally does that happen. I had a fantastic night, even though the Royals were not able to pull off a win. A special thank you goes to Jason Tischer for setting the evening up for me. I hope you get a glimpse of how special my night was through the slide show I have created just for you.
Also, thank you to all of you who have sent flowers, candy and other random gifts.
9.15.2006
Buck Night!
Ok, many of you already think that I am crazy for being a huge Royals' fan. Well, you are about to think that I am even crazier. The person I am most excited to meet is the Public Relations Coordinator for the Royals, he has my dream job. Maybe I can make some life-long connections. Hopefully, I will not embarrass myself trying to be memorable.
Thank you guys for being respectful and limiting the phone calls. As time goes on I feel that my body will adjust to all of the medications and will become stronger. God is working in me and I hope He is working in you. He is a big God. I cannot believe the amount of people praying for me. That in itself is overwhelming. Thank you SO much. I do not have words to express how grateful I am.
Thank you guys for being respectful and limiting the phone calls. As time goes on I feel that my body will adjust to all of the medications and will become stronger. God is working in me and I hope He is working in you. He is a big God. I cannot believe the amount of people praying for me. That in itself is overwhelming. Thank you SO much. I do not have words to express how grateful I am.
9.14.2006
Something small...
Well, we found out how much I can handle and last night may have been too much. I really wanted to see my friends in Warrensburg so I was allowed to go stay the night with Jenna Wilson and go to the Christian Campus House for our weekly worship. I really felt that overall the night went very well. This morning I woke up after a rough night of sleep to some very sharp pains across my stomach and moving into my back. As time went on it became more painful and very hard to breathe. Trust me, it takes a lot for me just to say I am in pain. I was able to call home and two friends that were close because I was by myself. When it was all said and done, I was offered my second ambulance ride of the week. By that time I was feeling much better. It appears that I had an anxiety attack.
Exciting news: Yesterday, Jason Tischer, Jenna's fiance', emailed the Royals public relations personnel. He told them about my parents and that I just found out about having a brain tumor. He also mentioned how I have been out in their stands with my royals' tee and my multiple signs that many people are embarrassed by. I am excited to say that tomorrow I will be getting to meet many of the Royals' players during batting practice.
Also, I hate to put this in here. But, with this morning's events it is very important that I get rest. Trust me I would love to call each and everyone of you and tell you how thankful I am for you. But, physically I cannot do it. So, if I do not answer my phone please do not take it personally. I am able to check my blog pretty often. I get every single message you leave. And every message is very important to me. Thank you.
This picture is of Cristin, myself and Bonnie before we attempted to canoe down the river on Saturday. Bonnie, also known as my partner is crime, is one that "experienced" the day with me. And Bonnie also gets to remind me of all the crazy things I said while I was out of it. A big shout out goes to Jenna Wright, another friend who "experienced" the day with me.
Exciting news: Yesterday, Jason Tischer, Jenna's fiance', emailed the Royals public relations personnel. He told them about my parents and that I just found out about having a brain tumor. He also mentioned how I have been out in their stands with my royals' tee and my multiple signs that many people are embarrassed by. I am excited to say that tomorrow I will be getting to meet many of the Royals' players during batting practice.
Also, I hate to put this in here. But, with this morning's events it is very important that I get rest. Trust me I would love to call each and everyone of you and tell you how thankful I am for you. But, physically I cannot do it. So, if I do not answer my phone please do not take it personally. I am able to check my blog pretty often. I get every single message you leave. And every message is very important to me. Thank you.
This picture is of Cristin, myself and Bonnie before we attempted to canoe down the river on Saturday. Bonnie, also known as my partner is crime, is one that "experienced" the day with me. And Bonnie also gets to remind me of all the crazy things I said while I was out of it. A big shout out goes to Jenna Wright, another friend who "experienced" the day with me.
9.12.2006
Appointment #1
I am very happy for much of the information I received today. But, please remember nothing of what I know is definite.
I went to see my nurseries for the first time today. He was able to read my scan from Saturday to inform us more of what is actually in my brain. From Saturday's scan, he was able to tell me that I may have a low grade brain tumor. He also told me that the bleeding that the Lebanon Hospital said that I have is actually calcium, which means it is growing slowly. He does not believe it is cancerous. More than likely I will be having surgery to remove the mass in the next few weeks. I have been very scared about losing all of my hair, but he reassured me today that I may only lose a strip and I will be able to cover it up.
I go in for more scans on Monday and a follow-up exam on Wednesday. And from there the scheduling and treatments will begin.
Also, my dad's doctor will be one of the people on my research team. For those of you who do not know, my father passed away of a brain tumor in Feb. of '92. I am encouraged by the doctor being on my team because he knows my father's medical history as well as some environmental issues that have occurred.
Thank you for everything you have done for me. There are thousands of people praying for me all over the country and I believe today was the beginning of a long list of things I am thankful for. God is going to take care of me and I will be healed by God, even if He decides to heal me through doctors. Please continue to pray for the specifics I mentioned yesterday.
I went to see my nurseries for the first time today. He was able to read my scan from Saturday to inform us more of what is actually in my brain. From Saturday's scan, he was able to tell me that I may have a low grade brain tumor. He also told me that the bleeding that the Lebanon Hospital said that I have is actually calcium, which means it is growing slowly. He does not believe it is cancerous. More than likely I will be having surgery to remove the mass in the next few weeks. I have been very scared about losing all of my hair, but he reassured me today that I may only lose a strip and I will be able to cover it up.
I go in for more scans on Monday and a follow-up exam on Wednesday. And from there the scheduling and treatments will begin.
Also, my dad's doctor will be one of the people on my research team. For those of you who do not know, my father passed away of a brain tumor in Feb. of '92. I am encouraged by the doctor being on my team because he knows my father's medical history as well as some environmental issues that have occurred.
Thank you for everything you have done for me. There are thousands of people praying for me all over the country and I believe today was the beginning of a long list of things I am thankful for. God is going to take care of me and I will be healed by God, even if He decides to heal me through doctors. Please continue to pray for the specifics I mentioned yesterday.
9.11.2006
Day 2
I had much hope for today with having my first round of doctor's appointments, but I was unable to get in today. My appointment is tomorrow @ 9 a.m. at North Kansas City-St.Lukes Hospital.
Another concern of mine is my finger, I know it sounds trivial. But, I believe I was bit by something poisonous. It is red and very swollen. I would typically take something to prevent it from getting worse, but we do not know what medication I can and cannot take do to the bleeding in my brain. We are waiting on a call from the doctor.
I have been overwhelmed with all of the phone calls, emails, visits and prayers. Thank you so much for letting me know I am not in this alone.
UPDATE: I just got back from the Emergency Room, where they looked at my finger. It seems that I have cellulitis. So now I am on an antibiotic as well.
Another concern of mine is my finger, I know it sounds trivial. But, I believe I was bit by something poisonous. It is red and very swollen. I would typically take something to prevent it from getting worse, but we do not know what medication I can and cannot take do to the bleeding in my brain. We are waiting on a call from the doctor.
I have been overwhelmed with all of the phone calls, emails, visits and prayers. Thank you so much for letting me know I am not in this alone.
UPDATE: I just got back from the Emergency Room, where they looked at my finger. It seems that I have cellulitis. So now I am on an antibiotic as well.
9.10.2006
With hope...
Words do not explain what is running through my head write now. I have been able to talk to many of you, many have received phone calls from others and some may be caught surprised.
Friday night I left for a canoe trip with the ladies of the CCH. We camped Friday night and began our canoeing adventure about 9:15 a.m. About an hour into our trip, I had a seizure and was taken to the hospital. There I had to under go many tests, one of which was a CT scan. The doctor told me that from the scan, I have an abnormality on my left frontal lobe of my brain.
Honestly, I don't know what this means for me. I do know that I cannot drive for six months because of the seizure I had yesterday (saturday).
The doctor's office will be calling tomorrow at 7:30 a.m. to tell us what appointments and tests I need to under go.
Specific concerns:
my family
insurance now and for the rest of my life
school
work
I will use this site as an update in regards to my health. I ask that you continue to pray for me. I am very scared and unsure about a lot.
Friday night I left for a canoe trip with the ladies of the CCH. We camped Friday night and began our canoeing adventure about 9:15 a.m. About an hour into our trip, I had a seizure and was taken to the hospital. There I had to under go many tests, one of which was a CT scan. The doctor told me that from the scan, I have an abnormality on my left frontal lobe of my brain.
Honestly, I don't know what this means for me. I do know that I cannot drive for six months because of the seizure I had yesterday (saturday).
The doctor's office will be calling tomorrow at 7:30 a.m. to tell us what appointments and tests I need to under go.
Specific concerns:
my family
insurance now and for the rest of my life
school
work
I will use this site as an update in regards to my health. I ask that you continue to pray for me. I am very scared and unsure about a lot.
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About Me
- angie
- I am a girl simply living the life God has put before me. As we both know it has had its ups and downs. But, He is using me in ways that I cannot imagine.