Faith, Hope and Love

Today was my last Herceptin (chemo) injection. Sixteen months from diagnosis to completing treatment. I am so thankful for all the prayers and kindnesses extended to me during the last 16 months. I know the path was made easier for me due to support from church, family and friends.
I will have scans and follow-up tests August 20th and a three-month check up in October. My prayers have been answered and I am so very thankful.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace, as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13Blessings to you !!
Love,
Ellen

Pink Luncheon

On July 9, I attended the Horizon of Hope Pink Luncheon, hosted by Tami Longaberger, CEO and owner of Longaberger Basket Company in Ohio. The luncheon is held in honor of breast cancer survivors who are nominated by basket consultants all across the U.S. My sister, Carol, nominated me and I was selected to attend. (The lunch is free, I paid for travel.) About 170 women attended the lunch which was held in Tami's home, Eschman Meadows. The mansion is beautiful! One entire end of the house is a great hall, elegantly furnished, that functions as a meeting place for a variety of Longaberger events. The attendees gathered at the Longaberger Homestead, near Dresdin, and were carried by bus to the mansion. Several employees served as hostesses and guides once we arrived. The room was decorated in a spring theme, with eggs and birdhouses as centerpieces and, of course, pink tablecloths and napkins. Naturally, all the tableware was Longaberger. The Longaberger company has partnered with the American Cancer Society since 1995 to support breast cancer research. Two dollars from the sale of each Horizon of Hope basket goes to the ACS - which has raised about $14 million since 1995. Following the lunch, Tami provided an opportunity for each of the guests to speak to her, have a photo taken and get a basket authographed. This signature tradition is central to Longaberger's business philosophy - that each worker is proud of the work (really artistry) and signs the basket. The Longaberger logo, the basketweaver's initials and the date guarantee that the basket is genuine -hand made in the U.S.A.
Carol and I spent the rest of Thursday and Friday shopping at the Homestead and in Dresdin. It was really fun to stay in a B & B that was once Dave Longaberger's home (founder of the company). I also made some incredible friends - sisters, really, that share a similar story to me.
I will complete treatment on Monday, July 27. Dr. M. will schedule scans at the end of August to establish a new "normal" for me. I have been feeling very good and have experienced less foot problems in the last few weeks.
Marlin and I are planning a long weekend trip to San Antonio, Texas, at the end of July, to see my sister, Nora, who is hosting our sibling reunion this year.
I am continually blessed by the people in my life. I continue to covet your prayers and praise God for healing and health.
We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him. Romans 8:28
Love to you -
Ellen