Monday, May 31, 2010

May 31st update 9:26AM

Thank you for the prayers over the platelets. Looks like they are getting a little better. Nick is reaching the end of the pain meds. He said last night that he feels anxious (doctor said he would probably have some withdrawals, even with weaning). I just spoke with him and he is not feeling good, he says he can tell it is the withdrawals. Please pray those symptoms will lessen quickly and he will even out with it very soon.

I think as he becomes more clear minded he is realizing what he will face next. He is asking a lot of questions about his radiation and chemo. It makes me sad when I think about all he has already conquered and then what he still has to face.I am his biggest cheerleader and I assure him it will all be just fine! I know if you visited yesterday you would not have noticed nor would he probably have shown it, but he was struggling with some depression. Which is very normal. But I am so amazed at his courage and his overall awesome attitude.He encourages me!! When I think I have something to feel bad about, I have to take a step back at look at all my man has been through and all he still going to face.

Your visits, prayers, phone calls, cards etc...ALL of it provide a source of encouragement to him and to me and Aaron. One constant for Nick, that I hear him say almost everyday "God will take of us, I have turned it ALL over to him and He is in control". I guess you could say that is Nick's motto!!! Really for the three of us there is no other way we want to live this.

Look at the great things the Lord has done for us already. Psalm 126:3 The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.

In spite our circumstances we are comforted by Him daily.Psalm 119:76 May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant.

How else can we explain the joy that comes from within , even when we are facing the unknown?Psalm 19:8 The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.

We know God will continue to give us what we need. The thing is sometimes what we think we need and what HE knows we need can be very different. So we just have to believe and trust in His decisions for our lives. We always want what is best for our loved ones right?,well. our Father wants the same for us. Isaiah 48:17 This is what the LORD says— your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.

I am not sure where I first read this "Every time I count my blessings, I count you twice." It is true, you are blessings in our lives and we are so thankful for each of you. It has got to be a marvelous picture from the Heavens, God watching his children gathered together weaving a tapestry of love for each other.

Remember our troops today and always. Have a very blessed Memorial day.

Be joyful,

The Badidas













Saturday, May 29, 2010

Prayer Request/May 29th 9:14PM

Nick is still doing good. His platelet count has been low and he is passing some blood. A bit more today than yesterday. So they started an IV and are giving him platelets. Not sure where the blood is coming from. He is not experiencing any pain. Aaron and I noticed he looked pale today compared to the past few days. Please pray that this is something very minor. He is doing so well and says he feels fine, so we just are praying for NO set backs. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

In Jesus' name,

The Badidas

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Thursday May 27th 9:23PM

Nick is continuing to make great progress at Brooks. The therapist is now saying good possibility of him going home in 7-10 days!! He is starting to come out of that pain med fog, which is so good to see. He is joking around more, just really getting back to his old self. It will be so great to have him home. The house just isn't the same without him here. I look over at that empty recliner and I get a big knot in my throat.

It is hard to believe it had only been 9 days since the surgery. So many prayers answered with that. The fact that Nick's pain was not even close to what they thought it would be, is nothing short of a miracle, not to mention the awesome recovery he is making with his back and arm. The covering of prayers over that surgery are continuing to be answered everyday. I am thrilled you all are witnessing God's great work in our lives.

I think back to January and how I felt like I was falling into a depression. God brought me a friend to confide in who was feeling the same way. That friend sent me straight to God's word, James to be exact. Together we went through it verse by verse. It began to completely transformed me. I could not get enough. It was all in God's perfect timing. I had always looked up scripture & memorized some of it, but I don't think I really absorbed it and the impact it could have in my life until now. I am ashamed to admit I think I actually took The Bible for granted. But NO MORE!! Now, we are on to Philippians!!I am also beginning a study in Proverbs. There is no particular order we go in. Just letting God lead us and being obedient to learning and living by His word. It is exciting!! I know now He was preparing me and equipping me for what was to come. I cannot praise HIM enough for the gift of His Holy Word and that precious friend who guided me there.

Thank you to all of our amazing friends and family who keep us lifted up daily in thoughts and prayers. We are so blessed by each of you and we pray for God's blessings upon you always.

The Badidas

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Can I just say a joy filled day!!! Nick had a lot of therapy evaluation today. HE could be at Brooks any where from 3 weeks to 3 months. We know Nick over achiever and always ahead of schedule.

I just wanted to be a little nosey and see what they were doing with him, so I decided to go back up during afternoon therapy he was with occupational. She told him 3 words to remember and said she would ask him in 5 minutes what there where......5 minutes came, around he remembered 2 of them and I could not remember ANY of them. It got Nick tickled (made me nervous) and the therapist said I was distracting him. Kissed Nick bye and left!!

They are continuing to wean him off the pain meds. If you visit him you will notice right now he is a little foggy on some things that will get better over the next week or so. It kind of frustrates Nick because he cannot control it. But he is doing great. He said I am going to beat this!! We have surrendered.

Surrender: Let Go and Let God Work by Rick Warren
Surrender yourself to the Lord, and wait patiently for him. Psalm 37:7

Surrendering your life means:

Following God's lead without knowing where he's sending you;
Waiting for God's timing without knowing when it will come;
Expecting a miracle without knowing how God will provide;
Trusting God's purpose without understanding the circumstances.

You know you're surrendered to God when you rely on God to work things out instead of trying to manipulate others, force your agenda, and control the situation. You let go and let God work. You don't have to always be in charge. Instead of trying harder, you trust more.

Amen!

The Badidas

Monday, May 24, 2010

Monday May 24th 2010/7:43 PM Update

Looooong day!!! Nick is getting settled into his new place at Brooks. Here is the run down we were given on visiting. We can visit 11:30-1:00 (lunch) and 5:00-9:00pm Monday-Friday. Everything in between is therapy time. Weekends are pretty wide open. He may have some therapy Sat-Sun. Not has changed with that since my Mom was there it was the same way then (4 yrs ago). It is a great facility and we are confident they will help him. Nick has asked that we come during the times recommended by Brooks because he is serious about about the rehabilitation and wants to hit it full force. That man is determined to beat this.

Continuing to pray healing scriptures over Nick daily. As I was walking past the radiation department at Mayo today I saw a lot of sick people waiting to get radiation. I realized unless God has other plans, that will be Nick in there in a few weeks. I am praying that God prepares us for that time with an abundance of strength both mentally and physically.

Praying these verses right now:
Isaiah 58:8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.
Jeremiah 33:6 Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security.
Isaiah 53:5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.

God brought joy to me in such an amazing way today. He confirms to me daily that He hears my cries. He is healing wounds and mending fences and He does it such a spectacular way!! I really cannot praise Him enough for what I see unfolding in our lives.

We love you and thank God for each of you.

Praise Him!!

The Badidas

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Super Sunday!!!! Loved being back at Church. Cannot wait for Nick to be there with us. We had a small problem today with some over medicating. Nick was really out of it and not making sense the last couple of days. There were orders to start weaning him from the pain meds on Friday the 20th....but that never happened (not sure why). His pain level is a one (PTL!!). I spoke with pain management today and they are getting it controlled now. Still looking to go to Brooks Tuesday??? But will keep you posted. So all is good and he is continuing to heal so well.

So much to be thankful for. I am constantly amazed at the people that are being ministered to through all of this. You never know who God will place in your path for you to witness to. Friends, family, a stranger in the waiting room. I heard a story this evening from a friend who was coming to see Nick and ended up having a lengthy conversation and then praying with a lady in the lobby at the hospital. That's just one of the stories...there are many more. Doctors have walked in on a prayer circles in Nick's room and said "they could have listened to us pray all day". You never know who, when or where. Just be ready. God has given us the ultimate guide to prepare us....HIS Holy Word. You have questions? His Word has your answer. Your having struggles in your life? His word will comfort you and give you peace. Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so! I think we all heard that as a child,simple but so true. His word has provided our family with immense peace and comfort. We continuously rely on His word to navigate us through this journey. Without IT we would be lost, with IT will never have to be! Praise Him!!

Blessings,

The Badidas

Saturday, May 22, 2010

Quick Update/Saturday Evening 10:44PM

Nothing new today which is a good thing. For us and for Nick I think it was a chilled out day. He is ready for the next phase which is Brookes Rehab.

Aaron and I really had an afternoon of peaceful rest. I am thankful for the joy and laughter we have shared together today. I was thinking that I could fill up a whole page with all God's little miracles since this started. I am waiting though because I know there are many more to come. HE amazes me in the way he is keeping my heart so joyful. I am like how can I be so joyous when I have all of this stuff going on in my life? There is only one answer, JESUS!!

I have recently begun a Bible study in the book of Philippians, I was awed by the fact that Paul was writing from prison, chained to a Roman guard, but consistently used the words joy and or rejoice in his letter to the Phillipians. He saw his circumstance as a way to still spread the gospel. What a amazing way to gloirfy God....through any and all circumstances we have in our live. He could be using any of us as a vessel for His Glory!! How exciting is that!!

I appreciate all your encouragement for these posts. I really do not know what I will end up typing when I start. I honestly just write what is in my heart.

Philippians 3-11
I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart; for whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God's grace with me. God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.

May you always feel HIS love,

The Badidas

Nick is in a room!!!

Good Morning,

Nick has finally been moved to regular room.He is in room# 521. Talked to him this morning told him peeps are waiting to come see him. He said and I quote " that's great, just ask them to go easy on me because it is hard for me to talk". The hoarseness is normal and will get better over time.

I will be in and out at the hospital today, so text me if you have any questions. Thank you for your patience and have a very blessed day!

Tammy

Friday, May 21, 2010

Friday May 22nd

Today was a pretty good day. Nick said he felt more tired today. He has become very hoarse. Didn't want to talk a lot. But he ate well, did a little physical therapy. The advisor from Brooks Rehabilitation came by and did an evaluation. It looks like he will be going inpatient there. My Mom was at Brooks twice and they were awesome both times. So we think that will be a real blessing as far as getting him mobile again both with his arm/hand and back.

You all are so sweet about wanting to come and visit. I keep hoping they will get him transferred to a regular room, but they are still saying they have none available. There is a sign posted on his door that says limited visitation, family only (pastors of course). I promise as soon as he is transferred I will post room number and you are all more than welcome to visit!!! It is kind of good right now because he is able to get rest and really try and rest his throat from the hoarseness that has come on. I try to keep you all updated and I tell him of ALL the well wishes being sent his way. I read him the texts I get throughout the day as well. He feels the love!! And he loves you all so much! His heart is full.

His ICU room is starting to fill up with some cards. I read them all to him. I have a bag ready to pack them up and take them to the next destination.You never know what will encourage someone and the cards do!! There is a slight chance he may go directly from ICU to Brookes either Monday or Tuesday if they cannot get him in a regular room. And I know there is visitation there. But again will keep you posted.

We are blessed! God has promised to take care of us and He is, He always will. We are encouraged every day by the progress we are seeing. We are strengthened daily, because He gives us strength. We are so hopeful because He provides us with so much hope. One of my favorite verses "The Joy of the Lord is your strength" Neh 8:10. That is what I pray people see, that our strength comes from our joy that we have in our Savour no matter what the circumstance is. Yes, we have our moments of fear and the "what if's" but they quickly fade once we begin praying. The Bible says pray for everything big or small and believe and it will be yours:

Mark 11:23-24... I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, "May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea, and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart. I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you’ve received it, it will be yours."

Thank you for praying and believing with and for our family. We are blessed to have such amazing family & friends.

Joyous and free,
The Badidas

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Thursday May 20th update

I walked in this morning to find my sweet man eating breakfast and he enjoyed a very big lunch as well!! Physical therapy started getting him up today. He walked a bit and sat up in the recliner for a good while. I have to chuckle that they (the nurses & doctors) seemed amazed by his pain level or lack of it!!!! I try to explain to them that it is being covered by prayer. Hopefully tomorrow he will get moved to a regular room. I will keep you posted on that.

I see so much determination in Nick. He still has a long way to go but it WILL happen. It is all being left at the feet of Jesus. When I see things upfolding like they are, it just confirms to me that we are apart of something so much bigger and better. I have witnessed so many amazing God things take place already. It is like God has this "to do" list for us and He is checking things off one by one. God encourages us daily by answering our prayers and sending us people that love and support us when we need it most.

What personal struggles do you need encouragement for this week? Lay them at the feet of Jesus and you will find the peace and comfort that only He can provide.

In HIS Name,

The Badidas

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Wednesday evening update/May 19th 9:47 PM

I heard an old,old story how a Saviour came from glory, How He gave his life on calvary to save someone like me I heard about His groaning, of His precious blood's atoning then I repented of my sin And won the victory.
Oh, victory in Jesus, My Saviour forever. He sought me and He bought me with His redeeming blood. He loved me ere I knew Him and all my love is due Him .He plunged me to victory beneath the cleansing flood. I heard about His Healing, of His cleansing pow'r revealing. How He made the lame to walk again and caused the blind to see. And then I cried"Dear Jesus,come and heal my broken spirit"And some how Jesus came and brought to me the victory. Oh, victory in Jesus,my saviour forever!!!!

I love this hymn, it has always been one of my favorites. The words are so pure and telling our our Saviours love for us. I have been humming it all day!

Today was a good day. The prayers for decrease in Nick's pain are being heard please keep praying! It looks like they may have it under control.No signs of infection so far, already he has movement and mobility in his week arm (doctors said could be month's before he had movement) Thank you Jesus!! He passed the swallowing test, so no feeding tube, PTL!!! ( I even fed him jello this evening). He sat up for a few minutes...that was so awesome to see! What causes him so much pain is the spasms (they can take his breath at times). But overall he looks good. He already has his neck and back brace on, that he will be sporting anywhere from 2-3 months. We told him we will decorate it and make it look cool!

We told him about prayer chain and fasting with the kids and adults. He was so overwhelmed.
He keeps thanking Jesus and saying He is what this is all about...he amazes me. I thought I could not love him anymore but God has showed me I can . The miracles came big today. We just want to praise Him!

Psalm 72:18-19
Praise be to the LORD God, the God of Israel, who alone does marvelous deeds.
Praise be to his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen and Amen.

Praise Him Always,

The Badidas

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Surgery Update 5/18/10 8:51PM

I just do not even know where to start!! What a day!! The surgical part is finished and the surgeon was very pleased with the way things went. The next 48 hours will be critical as far as swelling, pain, blood clots forming, infection etc...Nick went in about 7:30 AM and was in surgery until about 4:30-5:00PM. He had no fear this morning and appeared very peaceful. We spoke with the surgeon in detail about 5:50 and he said Nick will be in ICU 2-3 days. We are heading back up to see him shortly he wasn't going to be in his ICU room until around 9:00pm. I cannot wait to see him.

Can I just say over joyed and full of thankfulness for God's goodness today. Let me tell you how your prayers worked for us. Knowing Nick would be in surgery all day and the many serious risks involved with the surgery, you would think we would be anxious and full of fear during all those hours........NO WAY....NOT ONCE. I am here to testify to you about the power of you prayers & fasting. They brought us supernatural peace ( We were walking in a huge peace bubble today). They bound away any fear that could have crippled our thoughts. They took what could have been an unbearable situation and made it more than bearable. They brought my man through a dangerous surgery. I could go on and on. God heard your pleas and answered your prayers!!! Glory, Glory, Glory to HIM forever.

I witnessed God's children at work today on the 4th floor. The Word being spoken, many, many circles of prayers throughout the day, encouragement, laughter, God's love in the fullest. Really I cannot express in one post what I was witnessed today. All God, all good, all day long!!

Together we tackled a big hurdle today. More are coming, but we will go forth with all of God's wisdom, guidance, grace and love and tackle them too!

Your visits, prayers, texts, emails & voicemails were gift's throughout this day. You have all glorified HIM and I hope you can feel the warmth from His smile tonight.

Our immediate prayer requests are:

No infection
No blood clots
No swelling
pain relief

Psalm 95 1-6
Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.
Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.
For the LORD is the great God, the great King above all gods.
In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him.
The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land.
Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker;

A post from Aaron:
Though it might not be saying much from 16 brief years of experience, I don't know any other way to say it: I am in awe. What I experienced the past few days is incomparable, as I saw the love of Christ pour out from friends who, to me, are like family. For most, a day like today would've been solemn, fear-filled, and long. For us, it was joyful, peaceful, and...well, it was still long. :)

God reminded things to me that I, for one, needed to see...that prayer is effectual beyond our deepest understanding, that he is present in everything, and that his peace transcends even the greatest of fears. I've been trying to find some way to express my gratitude and joy...the holy elation that fills me today...but it's something that I can only feel, and not fully explain. I'm humbled, and it's a feeling I don't want to lose, because it gives me such great love for Christ and His people. What the Lord did in a little over 10 short days has put a perspective on my life that gives such great purpose to such an overwhelming journey.

I know that each prayer, each offering to God, each word spoken in Christ today surrounded us and my father with a holy presence. The thankfulness I feel toward God and the people he has put in our lives is indescribable. I saw prayers answered in hours today...my God is limitless. I saw laughter and joy amid the long hours filled with anxious thoughts...my God is limitless. I felt the love of His people every step of the day...yes, my God is limitless.

I cannot thank the incredible people who were there for us today, be it in person or in prayer. The Spirit of God is so alive, and the blessings we experienced with the success of the surgery and the protection of God over my father is a but a small, glorious testament to what our Savior can do through faith.

I know that a long road still lies ahead, but I believe now more than ever that God will take us every step of the way according to His will.

-Aaron



Thanking for your love,
The Badidas

Monday, May 17, 2010

Visitors for tomorrow

You all are so sweet to ask about visiting tomorrow. Here is the deal..... I will have family there early so we would request no visitors(except Pastoral) before 9AM. I would like for the family to have prayer time together before anyone arrives.

You are more than welcome to come visit, pray or just say hello. I would ask that visits are limited to about 15 mins or so. As you can imagine, it can get very overwhelming at times while we are having to wait. I see the visits as providing little moments of encouragement and love throughout the day!!

We are so blessed!!! Words simply cannot express our gratitude for you prayers and support during this time. I feel we are going into this batlle fully armored by His love and yours.

In HIS Hands,

The Badidas

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Sunday May 16th 5:08 PM/ Have Hope

Hello All,

Nick has had an ok couple days. He has been very tired and dosing off a lot. But he says the pain has eased off enough allowing him to rest better.That is a blessing!!I can tell he is having a hard time thinking clearly from all the pain meds. But as long as he is comfortable that is all that matters right now.

His only request is that I bring him whatever food he is craving. He says he has no control over anything else so he wants to eat some of my good food before Tuesday!! LOL...anything for my man! (and no he is not requesting low sugar foods)! They are already starting to prep him for Tuesday with a lot of blood work and IV fluids.

Aaron and I took our cardboard testimonies to the hospital to share with him! Still as emotional! Chets people know what I am talking about. For others who are not familiar.... this is a powerful way to share a testimony of hope.(you can check out on you tube..it is worth it).

Humbled, free, joyful and hopeful are just a few of the emotions I felt today during that time. Their were moments of sadness before going on the stage, just because I was wishing Nick could have been there. But I was so honored to have Aaron by my side.

We are so grateful for the awesome prayer/fasting chain that has been started for Tuesday. Adults and teenagers!!! It is our big circle of love that will keep us floating in God's peace bubble!

We will choose to live in hope. God is bigger than this cancer. If we say we are turning it ALL over then we will and not take it back for a minute.We will choose to be joyful, grateful & humbled by the many miracles that will unfold by HIS hands. We are free in Jesus because we choose to live only for His approval. Through the good and the bad HE's got our back! To God be the glory always!!!

Many of you have asked me about sending cards. Let me tell you Nick loves him some cards. He still has the ones from last year's surgery. Thank you for the encouraging ones we have already received. You can send them to our home address and I will take them to him. Email me or inbox me on FB if you need the address.

We love you all so much!! I hope you know we are feeling all of your love, prayers and encouragement!!

May you always have hope,

The Badidas

PS I will probably not update again until Tuesday evening.

Friday, May 14, 2010

New update/Friday May 14th 10:12 PM

Wow, really not sure where to begin, so much info. The team of doctors meet early this morning and have decided that Nick NEEDS surgery. From a neurological stand point he is weakening. They feel if they wait his spine could collapse completely.

We spoke in detail with the surgeon that will be doing the re-building in damaged area of the spine. I cannot even begin to explain to you how complex this is not to mention ALL the risks involved. There will be a team of different doctors (about 8) in the OR so all areas will be covered. They will get out as much of the tumor as they can, but say will not be able to get it all, so later on he will require additional radiation and chemo. He will have to wear a neck/collar brace for a while (could be up to 3 months). They will operate through front of his neck first then turn him over and finish through his back. When I ask how long will surgery last Surgeon said "all day most likely". He will go to ICU for a couple of days. Recuperation will be long & very painful.

His surgery is schedule for 7:00 AM Tuesday Morning. We will have family here that day my sister, my stepdaughter, Aaron will be there of course. We are not telling Nicks dad (90 yrs old) he couldn't handle it.

Now that is what the doctors have said. God may have different plans (shorter surgery time, shorter recuperation, less pain etc..) I know I missing some info but I think I have covered the gist of it.

There was a lot of info to process with this and as you can imagine. Initially,as you could imagine, very upsetting to Nick, but after it started to sink in, he knows it is what is best and he trust the surgeon and feels safe with him. He was in good spirits, smiling & joking when we left him tonight.

Aaron and I were talking today and I asked him are we just numb to this right now or are we walking around in God's peace bubble? It has got to be the power of all the prayers surrounding us. There is no other way to explain being able to absorb all this info, knowing what your loved one is facing and still having hope and joy in your heart. I am telling you I can't make this stuff up.....We are truly living daily on the hope we have in Jesus. We glorify Him for all He has done and all He will continue to do. I wish I could tell you all the ways He still blesses us daily!!

Have a blessed weekend and I hope you are able to expereince God's peace bubble!

The Badida's
The joy of the LORD is your strength. Neh 8:10

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Preliminary results from Todays Biopsy 5/13

Well, not the news we wanted to hear from the preliminary results. Early findings indicate definitely cancer and that it has spread to the spine. Still more info to come from biopsy, hopefully tomorrow like the type of cancer etc...Dr. Miller (did biopsy today) said that he is meeting with the rest of the medical team tomorrow and hopefully they will get a PET scan ordered asap. PET scan will show ANY "hot" spots from head to toe...hot spots indicate cancer. Basically, they are looking to see if it has spread/or other tumors have formed anywhere else. PET scans are a better cancer identifier than a CT scan. They are covering everything.

So where does this leave us right now? That is what I asked the Dr. Miller. He said if the cancer is only in the spine they will continue to try and shrink it with radiation and then try and get rid of it with chemo. That would be our prayer now.... that it is ONLY in the spine and no where else AND that the tumor will respond to radiation. Apparently some do , some don't. If it has spread, well I am not even going to go there right now. That's just not an option!!

Nick was still very groggy this evening when the Doctor came in to speak with him about this. So I am not sure he will grasp this whole thing until tomorrow. He said he just wants to know everything so he can process it. God must really being showering us in His supernatural peace right now(I am feeling kind of numb). I am asking myself is this the calm before the storm?? NO it has to be that God is just comforting us so much. He is a shield for our pain and your prayers are providing us with a blanket of peace.

This a the biggest fight of Nick's life (really all of ours)....We may be tired and weary.... but we have so much HOPE. Job 6:8"Oh, that I might have my request, that God would grant what I hope for."

I am sure we will know more tomorrow. Our faith will never waiver from knowing that He is a great and mighty healer.

"But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed." Isaiah 53: 5

Praying for a Miracle,

The Badidas

Thursday Morning/New Procedure Schedule

Just got a call from Nick/A different Radiological Oncologist came by already this morning (PTL!! Love when they move on things quickly). He is going to do do a different type of biopsy on Nick today sometime between 12:30-1:30 (getting him scheduled now). Doc said it is a little more dangerous to do this way but he feels confident he can get a good bone fragment to get a successful read.Nick seemed relieved and comfortable with this Rad. Onco.

We are praying for success with this biopsy. Heading out to hopsital in a bit and will update you all this evening.

Will be praying this verse all day today: Psalm 33:20 We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield.

Love to you all,
Tammy

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Very quick update Wednesday Evening 5/12 9:29PM

Nick said that one of the oncologist stopped by this evening and said that they were not able to get enough bone to get a read on infection and or see if anything has spread. They (doctors) are discussing another way to try and get a better bone fragment?? I will know more tomorrow when I get up there. But I wanted to let you all who have been waiting and praying with us that no answers will be found through this biopsy.

Not going to question why? (well not to the Lord anyway) but have several questions for the doctors tomorrow. It was great to see my church peeps tonight and feel so much love!!!

Waiting and praying......

Tammy

Wednesday 5/12/10 update 4:23

Hi Sweet Friends & Family,

Not really much to report today. They are holding off on any additional radiation until the biopsy results come back (which hopefully will be tomorrow). Doctors have again increased some of the pain meds (the one he gets in a pill form). Everything seems to be at a stand still.He is not getting worse (PTL!!)however, I do not see him getting better YET!! But no news in my book is good news. And the longer it takes to get the news, the longer we have to pray for God's healing miracle to happen!!!

We shared a couple of hours "just us" today and it was so sweet. We know what each other is thinking without saying a word(kind of weird but kind of not). I assured Nick there is Master plan no matter what news comes back. I am amazed by his strength and his faith. He worries more about me & the kids more than himself. And we only worry about him. I am so blessed!

Take no one or nothing for granted is on my heart heavy today. I am guilty of that often. So many things come to us easily. I want to be more thankful for the things God allows me to have and not the material things, but the REAL things, my family,friends, health, contentment, joy, peace & happiness. The things that matter most.

Colossians 2:7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

Colossians 3:15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

Ephesians 5:20
Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In The KJV:
The word thanks appears 73 times
The word thanksgiving appears 28 times
The word thank appears 27 times
The word thanked appears 3 times
The word thankful appears 3 times
The word thanksgivings appears 2 times
The word thankfulness appears 1 time
The word thanking appears 1 time
The word thankworthy appears 1 time

I want to life a live designed by thankfulness for Him.

Have a very blessed evening and know that we are truly thankful for each and everyone of you and your continuous prayers!

The Badidas

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Nick's biopsy went well. We have no preliminary reports yet. Hopefully tomorrow. Occupational therapy came in to work with him this morning. He is still having a lot of difficulty with the numbness in that left arm area. As you can imagine he was very uncomfortable when he got back from having the biopsy and very tired. He is still experiencing about the same level of pain. He says he gets very brief periods of relief. Basking in those small moments.

No word yet of any release date. Now we wait to hear. Very hard for us to do, makes us antsy. Today during a prayer time I was having, I asked God to place a hedge of protection around us, also asking Him to bind away anything that was not of Him. When we are weak and tired Satan will use that time to be crafty and try to tear us down. Matthew 16:23 Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men."

Know in Him we can feel renewed and restored . We can walk in His peace. HE has equipped us for the battle whatever it may be. Protected in His armor we can do anything!! What will worry accomplish?Luke 12:25 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Can I get an amen on that anybody?


Today I am so thankful for no bad news, that I saw my man laugh, that sweet friends and family came and provided me with such joy, that I got to hear all about Aaron's day, and for all the prayers and love sent our way!!

God's Blessings to You All,

The Badidas


Monday, May 10, 2010

He is my rock!

Hi Friends,

There is a lot of info from today. I will TRY and condense it as much as I can.

#1 Pain-they have now put Nick on a morphine pump to try and get some kind of handle on this pain. They want him up & walking and right now that's not happening. There is a pian management team involved and they are really working hard. The pain won't go away completely for a while but it can get to a point where it is manageable with the right meds (at least that is the goal).

#2 Steroids-because of the high dose of steroids his blood sugar is spiking dangerously high (over 500) He has been placed on a VERY strict diet and insulin injections.

# 3 Tomorrow at 12:45 he will have a biopsy on the tumor. Checking for several things:

A. type of cancer (Doctors suspect highly likely same type that was on his liver) (Heal me, O Lord and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved; for thou art my praise. Jeremiah 17:14)

B. if the cancer has spread to the bone (Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and healing shall spring up quickly.Isaiah 58:8)

C. for an infection in the bone (But he was wounded for our transgressions he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him;and with his stripes we are healed.Isaiah 53:5)

D. for any other type of cancer (Whatever you ask for in Prayer with faith you will receive. Matthew 21:22)

Praying these verses over that biopsy tomorrow!!! God's word says it, we believe it with all of our heart and soul.

I hear all the info, ask all the questions, respect all the answers....but I know my God is bigger then anything and everything that is taking place. I know my man is a source of strength for me and others even in that hospital bed. I have never loved and admired him more. My heart overflows with greatfulness when I think of how lucky I am to have such an amazing husband.

I am not just saying this....we REALLY feel all the love and prayers.We are so blessed by all of you. There is a story unfolding here...His story and we are all apart of it. Amen and Amen!

In HIS Healing Hands,

The Badidas

Sunday, May 9, 2010

evening update on Nick/ 9:55 PM Sunday May 9th

Nick seemed to be more at rest today. Hopefully they are finding the right combination of pain relief. He said it is about 5% better (we will take that). He says his swallowing feels a little weird (could be side effect of radiation). His second dose of radiation went fine.

We tried to go for a walk around the floor but he could not be on his feet for maybe 10 mins because of the pain. For those of you who have visited him you will see he is usually lying on his right side because that is how he gets some relief.

The doctor mentioned maybe a Monday release. But we think probably Tuesday?? They want to make sure the pain is controlled before he comes home (and so do we).

He is strong for the wonderful visitors that come!! But emotionally as you can imagine he is suffering and scared. I feel so helpless when I see this big, strong, wonderful man crying from pain & fear. But he knows even with the unknown God is in control. I am praying God will help me to be his greatest encourager. That I will know the right words to say when he is at a lowest points.

At times I forget that we have to find the blessings. They are there God will make sure of it. We just need to have our hearts open enough to recieve them when they come. Through this trial others are watching and listening as we testify about the goodness of our sweet Lord. Maybe someone that has never accepted Jesus into thier heart will witness the joy and peace that only He can bring during times of sadness and pain and will come to know Him. Only the Lord knows!

Today I am grateful for the clear CT scan (a prayer answered, Glory to Him!!), the rest Nick recieved, for the pain to have eased off a bit, for the wonderful visitors that came, for our friends that pray for us, to be able to hug my husband and son and tell then I love them.

Our God Reigns,

The Badidas

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1

New Update/Sunday May 9th 9:39 AM

I update this morning with so many emotions. First of all such gratefulness and joy to our Lord that Nick's CT scan from yesterday has came back clear and showing no additional tumors at this time. PTL!! HE is King and glorified through this news. Now we know what we have to focus on.

Nick called and was in tears from the pain of the current tumor. He said he feels so useless as he cannot do anything but lie in one position to get any relief. The doctors are working very hard to find the right pain med combo that will help him but not incapacitate him so he can still function.

It is crazy how you can feel gratefulness & joy about one thing but also immense sadness about another. Besides my sweet Lord and Savour there are two other people I live for, my Nick and my Aaron ( I jokingly refer to us as the 3 Musketeers!!). There is only one place to go when I feel depleted...on my knees and to my Lord crying out for his love and peace to fill me up. He let's me know He is with us always carrying our load , shining His light into our darkness, assuring us He is on control if we let Him. He is equipping us for the battles they lie ahead and most of all that He will love us through anything & everything. It is Him and Him alone that will will provide ALL that we need.

We are so thankful for our friends, our church and each other. Your phone calls, emails, texts, and most of all your prayers provide a blanket of comfort to us that we are so grateful for.

Happy Mother's Day to all you sweet Mom's!! The joy of the Lord is your strength! Neh 8:10

Glory in the Highest,
The Badidas


Psalm 33:22 May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you.

Saturday, May 8, 2010

update 7:12 PM/Saturday

As of this evening no word yet on the CT Scan from today. I feel that is a good/God thing. Nick finally seems to be resting confortably. His first round of radiation went fine. We had many sweet visitors throughout the day and some awesome prayer time this afternoon! It all really lifted Nick's spirit up so much. I am so proud of my husband is such an inspiration!

Haley & Aaron spent the whole day with me and I can't thank them enough for that.

I share each and every encouraging word you all send with Nick. We never take your prayers for granted...it is what gets us through. God willing will be at Church in the morning to pray my man up! I am grateful for what God has brought to us today, time together as a family, special time
with friends and a very blessed prayer time!

I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. Job 19:25

Blessings to you all,

The Badidas

Update 5/8/2010 2:36

Hi Friends,

We found out this morning as Nick was getting ready to go in for his first radiation treatment that this treatment will ONLY shrink the tumor (if the tumor does indeed respond). There is talk of possible chemo following the radiation. Nick is still in a lot of pain. They are trying to get it to where it's manageable through steroids and pain medicine. Sometime today he is having a scan done on his upper body to check for additional tumors.

We are trusting and believing in Jesus' name that there are NONE. They're going to take things step by step, and that begins with treating what they're aware of right now. Not sure of any release dates as of yet...probably early next week sometime, but they're seeing how he does with the pain.

Will update later if I get any additional info. Thank you for your continued prayers and support.

Also, he is able to see visitors for short periods of time. He is room 334 at the Mayo Clinic.

Blessings,
Tammy
I cannot sleep up at 6am. Physically tired but mentally not at rest. Praying and believing for a miracle! Praying Nick is in less pain today and that his first round of radiation goes well. I was thinking last night maybe God wants this thing gone away for good and this is the way He is going to do it. He is leading and we will follow. I will share all the wonderful posts and emails with Nick. They are so encouraging and so appreciated. Will update later when I have more info to share.

Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.

Friday, May 7, 2010

5/7/2010

In the multitudes of my (anxious) thoughts within me, Your comforts cheer and delight my soul! Psalm 94:19....got some anxious stuff this morning Lord!

Friends,

For those of you who have Facebook you saw this was my status I put up before 9 AM this morning. God knew already how this day would go.

Nick has had some back pain for the last 6 weeks or so. He thought he had pulled a muscle or pinched a nerve. He had several visits to his chiropractor and many massages. He never really experienced total relief. Then he started experiencing some numbness in his left hand. The pain became so severe today that we took him to Mayo. I prayed so very hard last night that God reveal WHATEVER it was causing him pain!

After an preliminary MRI our fears were confirmed. He has another tumor that has grown onto his (level 7 T-1 nerve) vertebrae. Right where he was having his pain. It has literally crushed that vertebrae. By this afternoon he was in excruciating pain.

The neuro-surgeon said that the tumor was in a difficult place for him to do surgery. So the treatment plan would most likely be radiation.

As of this evening when I left this is what we were told:

Doctors did second MRI this time with contrast to get a better picture of the tumor (size, and to be sure there are no other tumors) The oncologist and neuro-surgeon and many other doctors will all meet tomorrow morning to get a firm plan of treatment. We trust them!! and our God!!

OK as I was typing this the radiological oncologist called. They will start treating this tumor immediate (tomorrow morning 9:00) with radiation. 10 treatments...our prayer is that this works. With radiation comes fatigue, possible hair loss, sore throat and difficulty swallowing. This is an aggressive tumor praise the Lord they found it.

As much faith as we have and we do.... the devastating emotion this brought to the three of us today was almost more than we could bare. The why's came!!! So we do what we know best, we called in an army of prayer warriors.YOU!!! Hear me load & clear friends the PEACE came over us. By the time we left Nick tonight he was joking around (he did have quit a bit of pain meds) So hopefully he is able to sleep and rest his mind tonight. Tomorrow will be a very telling day.

I told him that we had the prayer chain in motion and he said "it feels so good to be loved by everyone" he was feeling it for sure!!! We do not know what tomorrow will bring... but we do believe and trust God to be in control. I will update you all as soon as possible tomorrow.

We love and appreciate you all.Your prayers work miracles!!!

In God's Healing Name,
The Badida's