Linda means “beautiful” and the linden tree symbolizes love, prosperity, and healing. God is doing an amazing work, and He is not done yet! My mom, Linda, has been diagnosed with a rare soft tissue cancer called Leiomyosarcoma, and there is no medical cure at this time. There is also limited research and she has very few options for treatment, all of which have goals for longevity of life but reduced quality of life. This development in her health has become extremely daunting and challenging to navigate, especially with the choices she has for balance of life moving forward. There are so many unknowns, but from what we see on the scans there are some tumors and a few small nodules in various locations in the abdomen, but most concerning is a large tumor near her colon that poses the greatest threat. At this time, chemo treatment is the best option aside from doing no treatment, and as early as possible while her body is strong and capable of undergoing infusions. Without treatment, there is limited time for quality of life and comfort before becoming symptomatic.

We believe in a God that is so much bigger than this cancer. The timing of this diagnosis is proof that He is changing hearts and transforming lives, and this cancer is an interruption- a distraction- to prevent this beautiful work from blooming and an attempt to steal our joy. There is power in the name of Jesus, and no matter what this cancer tries to do, we will not be shaken, we will not break, and we will not let our tears of suffering be stronger than the everlasting joy of a life with God. We already know the fight will be messy, hard, expensive, and bring chaos however it can but God will still do His work through it all. We each have something to testify of how God has always been faithful- He always shows up to do something beautiful, and through the hard times of winter we get our pruning so in the spring we are a beautiful tree, producing the best fruits and reaching our maximum potential.

We ask that you join our prayer circle over Linda as she steps out in this faith on a path to recovery- because no matter how this goes, she will be free of this cancer one way or another and we are claiming that victory right now. We pray for peace over the Driskell family, for a hedge of protection over her heart and mind through the process, for finances to not become burdensome through the treatment, for strength and rest in her body as it fights through this round.

Thank you for supporting her and encouraging her along the way, and if you are able to contribute financially that’s also a much appreciated blessing. She also enjoys notes and cards, so anytime you wish to send her some encouragement to read and treasure please do so.

“In your steadfast love give me life, that I may keep the testimonies of your mouth.

Forever, O Lord, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens. Your faithfulness endures to all generations; you have established the earth, and it stands fast.”

Psalm 119:88-90