Natalie's Story!!!
Not more than 3 months ago I underwent Brain surgery to remove a tumor, which now would have been an easier fix... 

 

I was told I had an extremely rare Autoimmune Disease. Drs around here are not familiar with and have only treated me with high doses of daily steroids.  I have been on steroids for 10 months now. I have had so many battles and side effects with these harmful killers. They do more harm to your body than good... But at this point I would only survive 2-3 days without them. 

 

I have contacted several known hospitals for treatment and many refused to take in my care. However, I found Duke University in NC was willing to follow me and and continue treatment with this rare disease. 

 

Approximately one month later I was back in the hospital again for an infection that I incurred during my recovery time. Although I felt sick... I never truly knew what was really going on "INSIDE". I saw 4 specialist, tried numerous antibiotics and continued on with fevers for 3 weeks at a time. 

 

My body soon became so weak, I couldnt even stay awake on a daily basis without napping.  My mind couldn't remember the simplest words. My appetite started to decrease and my muscles became weaker. Each and every day I started to become more and more bed ridden. I tried so hard to function on a daily basis especially for my kids. All my 3 yr old sees (mommy's sick again). I sit down on the swing to watch him play and serve quick meals until daddy comes home to handle the rest. 

 

As I sit here today and try and understand the REAL TRUTH...  I mentally become stronger. I don't have any doubt in my mind that I will succeed. Of course, I have a bit of fear, but I have the Lord watching over me and he truly gives me a sense of peace I have never felt. I know with him by my side, I will too get through this. 

 

About 2 wks ago I was diagnosed with a large malignant mass in my chest... Which has also spread to my neck. We are still testing and waiting for my final stage at this point. This too is a bit of a rare Lymphoma... Since I have both B & T cells present. 

 

For those who know me, know I don't really ask for help but I will today. 

My only request would be a special prayer in my name to help heal this body of mine that I have been called to live in. 

 

I want to truly thank all my family, church family, work family and friends for their love and support during this time. They have helped with my kids, dinner, cleaning and keeping me company while I take on this new challenge. I couldn't ask for more support and love than I have received. I'm so grateful for each and every single one of you.

 

And to my exceptional husband... Jose Campos for holding it altogether for Us. He truly has been my main back bone through it all. He gives me strength, courage and determination each and every single day. 

 

I loved you then

I love you still

I always have

And always will!

 

THIS IS THE BEGINNING OF OUR NEW JOURNEY!