On the Journey With...
Carol Van Waarde
To effectively navigate this cancer journey, two components are essential. The first, without question, is the Lord. Without His intervention, we simply cannot muster the strength (in and of ourselves) to face the unpredictable ups/downs of a cancer diagnosis. Second, our community is equally critical; we need people who will walk, pray, weep, and celebrate alongside us. Their faithful encouragement is vital; without it, our souls would surely wither, profoundly impeding our body’s capacity to heal.
I am incredibly blessed to have a spouse who has patiently walked by my side through every twist and turn. Last week, as we celebrated her birthday, I was reminded afresh of what a wonderful life partner she is – especially through this challenging cancer journey. I really cannot imagine having tried to traverse this path without her. In this issue of the newsletter, I want to honor her commitment and share a few ways her support has been particularly helpful to me.
We’ve all heard the old adage, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” This truth carries a whole new level of significance when a spouse or close family member faces a life-altering health crisis. While marriage vows include “in sickness and in health,” few of us truly understand the weight of those words until that reality strikes. In those moments, each person in the relationship must decide if they are still “in.” It’s far from an easy path, and some, regrettably, choose not to take it. But from the very beginning, Carol declared without hesitation, “I am with you. We will fight this together. I am not going anywhere!” The conviction in her voice left no doubt that she meant it. That was her first – and perhaps most profound – gift she gave me.
Second, she never freaked out about any of this. With every report (good or bad), she remained remarkably even-keeled. Yes, we shared tears when the news was not what we hoped, and there were indeed numerous sad days. But she never went overboard. She never made the journey about herself. I never hesitated to process with her, because I wasn’t worried about overwhelming her. She gave me ample space to lament, neither shushing nor correcting my grief. She seemed to instinctively understand the nature of the emotional roller coaster, holding my hand (and heart) through every twist. Her unwavering steadiness anchored me. Indeed, her calm disposition undoubtedly contributed to our making sound decisions and pivoting effectively. I never once feared that the challenges would overwhelm her.
Finally, she has found a way to provide support without ever having to resort to nagging. Emotional stress feeds cancer, a vital insight for our chosen treatment plan. My daily regimen includes numerous medical protocols, a constant stream of supplements, and strict dietary guidelines. Add to that my faulty memory and inconsistent discipline, this could have quickly led to tiresome daily interrogations (“Did you do this? Are you taking that? Why are eating that?”). Instead, she skillfully figured out how to help me with accountability without it ever feeling like she was “on my case.”
To summarize, in this challenging journey, while our ultimate strength flows from the Lord, His gracious provision is often manifested through the support of those He strategically (and graciously) places in our lives. Carol embodies this truth in my life perfectly. Her initial, resolute commitment, her steady demeanor through every trial, and her wise, gentle accountability have all been nothing short of miraculous gifts. Her willingness to walk this out with me has not merely been a comfort; it’s been a pillar – grounding me. All of which has created an environment where both body and soul could fight and heal. For this partnership, I am genuinely grateful. It is absolutely clear to me that her care is a testament to God’s tender mercy and the power of true, unwavering love.
See Carol’s appearance on the latest Sidewalk Conversation podcast episode released last week!
Soul Care with
Pastor Jenn
To Pastor (verb): to shepherd, advise, and guide into a place of deeper spiritual understanding
“Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the rejoicing of my heart, for I am called by your name, O Lord, God of hosts.”
Jeremiah 15:16
Hungry? Depending on the time of day you are reading this, you just might be. Could be time for breakfast or maybe dinner is about to be served. I’m actually writing this just before lunch time so I too will be feasting soon.
This scripture in Jeremiah talks about a different kind of feasting…eating of the Word of God. It’s an interesting but effective metaphor. And, to be honest, I often think it isn’t always as metaphorical as we think. I find myself from time to time feeling hungry for something but I’m just not sure what. Often times, it’s my soul longing to be fed. I’m soul hungry.
We don’t think of it the same, do we? We rarely build our day around feasting on scripture. But it is at least as important as our daily meals. It nourishes in a whole different way. It gives us strength and endurance for the days challenges and adds joy and rejoicing to our lives in a way that food…well, it just can’t. It wasn’t meant to feed us that way. Only God’s Word can satisfy.
I’m praying for you this week. May you recognize the hunger in your soul and may that hunger lead you to a feast that only God provides.
Caregivers Corner with
Kathi Peters
To Support (noun): to provide assistance that enables one to function or act.
One of the most painful parts of being a caregiver is witnessing your loved one become someone you no longer recognize. This change can happen slowly, like a gradual dimming of a light, or all at once, as though a door has slammed shut between who they were and who they are now. Maybe they were once vibrant and talkative, and now they may seem quiet, withdrawn, or even irritable.
Perhaps they were always sharp and independent, and now they need help with even the smallest tasks. Maybe they say things to you that they never would have said before. These changes are often caused by the disease itself – its physical, neurological, and emotional toll – but knowing that doesn’t always make it easier.
As a caregiver, it’s okay to mourn the relationship you used to have. That grief is real. It deserves to be acknowledged, not dismissed or rushed through. Don’t push away the sadness. This is a real, valid kind of loss, what some call “ambiguous grief.” You’re mourning a change in relationship, a shift in connection, and that deserves space and compassion.
Here are few suggestions I have found helpful:
- Look for glimmers of who they still are. Even when David is quiet or withdrawn, sometimes I’ll catch a familiar expression, or he’ll crack a joke that reminds me he’s still in there. I hold on to those moments like gold.
- Find someone you can be honest with. Whether it’s a friend, a counselor, a support group, or your pastor—don’t carry this weight alone. You’re not meant to. Lean into what doesn’t change.
- Also, remember even when our loved ones change, God does not. Hebrews 13:8 promises, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” When the person you love feels distant or unfamiliar, remember that God is still right beside you. Constant. Loving. Strong. You can rest in Him when everything else feels unstable.
Worship Moment
I Speak Jesus
To Inspire (verb): to fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.
Song: I Speak Jesus (Spotify and Apple Music)
Band: Charity Gayle
From: “Endless Praise” (2021)
This is one of the songs that I have replayed time and again during this journey, and I was curious about the backstory. Here is what I have discovered: the song was collaboratively written by a team of songwriters: Jesse Reeves, Dustin Smith, Carlene Prince, Raina Pratt, Kristen Dutton, and Abby Benton.
The initial inspiration for the song came from a simple yet profound prayer by Jesse Reeves. During a songwriting retreat, before they began writing, Jesse Reeves simply prayed over the group, saying, “I just want to speak the name of Jesus over these people.” That was the entire prayer – nothing more, nothing less.
Dustin Smith was deeply impacted by this simple, powerful declaration. When they began their writing session, he suggested they craft a song based on Jesse’s prayer. Jesse initially responded, “All I did was say the name of Jesus.” This concept became the core of the song: the belief in the profound power and authority found in simply speaking the name of Jesus over any situation—sickness, depression, anxiety, fear, addiction, or darkness. The songwriters felt that with the word “Jesus” already so powerful, all they needed was a melody to carry it.
Charity Gayle’s version, resonated widely with listeners, making the song a global anthem. While she didn’t write it, she became the voice that stewarded its message to millions, highlighting the song’s call to proclaim Jesus’ name as a source of peace, healing, life, and breakthrough in all circumstances.
Poetic Encouragement:
With Julie Clarke
To Encourage (noun): to give support and hope to someone so that they will do or continue to do something.
Where Will Worship Take Us?
Where will your worship take you
To a place beyond your now
To declare the truth of who he is
When you can’t quite see just how
Where will the worship take you
Will you travel, soar and fly
Or will you sit here quietly waiting
For a different kind of high
Will it ring from your voices and your heart
Or drip from your finger tips
Will the words pour sweetly from your mouth
Or inspire a smile on others lips
Is this setback just a setup
For a different kind of truth
One that moves my head and my heart
Toward this faith that I must prove
Is this worship… that I write here
One that battles back the black
Awakened by sweet presence
Of the glory that I’ve lacked
Thank you for this moment Lord
Here I’m inclined to hear your heart
To enjoy, fully glorify
Your healthy, holy part
I shout to the doubt, and lock that out
With the power of what’s true
I make this moment beautiful
Because you’ve taught me what to do.
Nutrition Nuggets with
Suzanna Hake
To Nourish (verb): the act or process of being nourished.
Zucchini Tortillas (4-Ingredients, Gluten-Free, Baked)
1-1 1/4 lbs zucchini
1 tsp sea salt
1 egg, beaten
2 oz grated parmesan cheese (1/2 cup packed)
Coarsely grate the zucchini using a box grater. Transfer the strands to a fine-meshed sieve and set the sieve over a bowl. Sprinkle the salt over the top and toss to distribute it. Let stand for at least 15 minutes to drain.
Heat the oven to 450ºF. Line an XL sheet pan or two standard-sized sheet pans with parchment paper.
Squeeze the zucchini and press it against the sieve to remove as much moisture as possible. You’ll have between 1/2 to 3/4 cup liquid by the time you finish squeezing.
Transfer the drained zucchini strands to a large bowl. Add the egg and parmesan, stir to combine.
Measure a 1/4-cup to portion the zucchini tortilla batter into roughly five mounds, placing them on your prepared sheet pan, being sure to space the mounds evenly. Spread each mound out into a thin circle, 6 to 7” in diameter.
Bake in oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges begin to crisp, and the surface of each tortilla is speckled with golden spots of browning parmesan cheese.
Let the tortillas cool for one minute on the sheet pan, then transfer to a plate to cool completely.
To freeze, place the tortillas in an airtight bag and transfer to the freezer for up to 3 months.
Healing Prayer
Based on Biblical Promises
To Pray (verb): Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)
Gracious God,
We come before You now, mindful of all who seek Your healing touch. We pray, as Jeremiah did, “Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for You are my praise” (Jeremiah 17:14). You are the Great Physician, and we place our hope for restoration entirely in Your hands. We know You possess the power to make us whole, inwardly and outwardly.
We are also mindful of your Word in James 5:14-15, we lift up those who are sick, asking them to call upon You, the Great Healer. We pray, “Allow the prayers of the elders who are watching over them and anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord prove effective. Knowing that the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, as the Lord raises them up.” We humbly trust in the power of faith-filled prayer and Your Spirit to accomplish Your healing will. May faith blossom in their hearts, dispelling all worries and doubts.
We also recall Your promise in 2 Chronicles 7:14-15, “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.” Therefore, we humbly come before You, seeking Your face and turning from anything that hinders Your perfect plan for us. Please hear us from heaven, forgive our sins, and bring Your profound healing to every hurting body and every weary spirit.
In the powerful name of Jesus, Amen.
Piet's Ponderings
To Ponder (verb): to think about something carefully, especially before making a decision or reaching a conclusion.
My first and most vital morning task, though it may seem trivial, is to determine my daily focus.
Will I allow my thoughts to drift to the hard, inconvenient, bothersome, uncomfortable, and irritating, or will I purposefully direct my heart and mind toward the good I can do through His grace and strength?
Neglecting this personal morning assignment leaves me vulnerable, easily tossed about by life’s unexpected events/activities, which invariably means I will react impulsively rather than with wisdom.
So again, today, I proactively choose to be upbeat, hopeful, responsible, active, secure in His grace, and strong in Spirit—for this is fundamentally who I am, and to whose I am.
Care to join?
Piet and Otto's 90Day Health/Fitness Challenge
Quick review:
Otto and I have been accountability partners for several years and we decided to kick it up a notch over the summer. We have always batted around the benefits of our differing approaches to our meal plan and our exercise routines. Otto is mostly plant-based, I am more meat-based. Otto is also more on the aerobic side, I’m more on the anaerobic side. And for 90 days we are putting are approaches to a head-to-head test – while raising money for cancer patients and the families.
After one month, here is where we are:
On measurements:
Piet:
Waist 46 → 44.25 (1.75)
Chest 46 → 44.5 (1.5)
Thigh 24 → 24.25 (+.25)
Arm/Bicep 13.75 → 13.75 (no change)
Otto:
Waist 45 → 44.25 (-.75)
Chest 44 → 43.75 (-.25)
Thigh 21 → 21.5 (+.25)
Arm/Bicep 12.5 → 12.5 (no change)
Weight:
Piet
224.0 → 223.6 (-.06)
Otto:
193.6 → 193 (-.06)
Our wives verified the measurements and weights. So, interesting that both approaches have proven effective thus far. Should you want to vote for your preferred approach, you can make your voice known, by making a contribution to the cause HERE.
Support the work!
The Van Waarde Foundation underwrites and supports a variety of projects related to supporting, educating, and encouraging fellow cancer warriors and their families.
Thank you in advance for your prayerful consideration.
https://www.patreon.com/c/pietvanwaarde
