Standing in Faith

Happy December!  I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and are enjoying the cool weather!  

There is a lot going in in the lives of Louie and Marianne these days so here is a quick update.  Louie had his pet scan yesterday and we would love it if you would all join us in prayer and standing in faith that he is cancer free!  We know that we serve a mighty God who hears our prayers and knows our hearts and we believe that His will is going to be done in and through Louie.  Louie and Marianne will get the results from the scan on December 12th and then will head to Stanford to head and neck oncology for a second opinion.

In other big news, Louie and Marianne have sold their music store. It is very bittersweet for them! They have loved the people they have had the privilege to meet and work with! With all they have been dealt this past year they haven't been able to give it the time or attention it needs and it became a financial burden.  They know that God has His hand on their lives and look forward to what God has in store for them!  

Louie and Marianne also celebrated their 7th wedding anniversary this week! They are so thankful for the past 7 years and look forward to their future together!  As always, thank you all for your continued prayers! Louie and Marianne look forward to reporting back with a good report! God Bless!

Dare to believe!

Since the last update Louie and Marianne have been quite busy!  They have participated in 2 cancer walks and raised over $2300.00 for Selma's Cancer Support.  They also went to Relay for Life in Lake Elsinore and spent time with Marianne's sister, Karen and her team called faith and hope for a cure.  They had an amazing time.  Marianne and Louie have really begun to understand what a great need there is for fundraising.  The cost for cancer care and treatments are extremely expensive, even if you have medical insurance. They would like to encourage everyone to donate regularly even if it's just to save your pocket change every month.

Louie saw Dr. Flam almost a week ago on October 15th. He is gaining weight and his blood pressure was good! His surgical sight is continuing to heal and the side effects from the radiation are beginning to dissipate.  Dr. Flam said Louie no longer needs the Herceptin, he justified its use during chemo and radiation when it would be most effective. He said that they weren't able to use the Herceptin as early as they should have because they couldn't get approval from the insurance so he used it as a precaution.  

Although the doctor told Louie he would need to be on the Herceptin for 1-2 years that has changed because Herceptin use in Head and Neck cancer is different then in Esophageal or Breast cancer.  There is a greater risk for spread in those cancers and the recurrence in Head and Neck is 90% in Louie's neck and 10% in his lungs.

They also asked about a pet scan and the doctor would like for Louie to rest for 12 weeks so that they don't receive any false positives. The doctor says he believes that Louie is cancer free. Marianne asked for evidence to support that and he said "Believe me, I know what I'm doing..."  Let's join together and pray that this would be true in Jesus' name!

Louie has an appointment for a second opinion at Stanford University so Marianne and Louie are currently working with a patient coordinator.  They are getting all of Louie's records from the diagnosis to date for a Head and Neck specialist to review. They will wait for Louie's petscan results before heading up there for his appointment.

In the mean time Louie is gaining his strength back, his taste buds are beginning to wake up, and he is feeling better and better with each day.... he is looking forward to this time to reflect and recover.  His testimony continues to grow with each passing day and he doesn't want to become complacent and forget what God has done. 

He wants to remind everyone of the important things in life; love each other, forgive, pray, fellowship, say you're sorry, be kind, reach out, pay it forward, be the hands and feet of Jesus, say thank you, don't let the enemy steal what is yours, declare God's Word and dare to believe!

As always, a big thank you to everyone for helping Louie and Marianne on this journey... they are so blessed and then some!

Never the same!

It has been awhile!  I am happy to report that Louie is staying strong and excited to almost be done with treatments, only two more weeks!  He is currently undergoing radiation Monday through Friday and chemo on Tuesdays.  He is doing surprisingly well and is only suffering from a few side effects including some redness and slight burning on the radiation side, inability to taste much of anything and a scratchy throat.  The Oncologists continue to be amazed at how well Louie has tolerated the treatment.  After treatments are over Louie will be given some time to rest before he has another Petscan.  We continue to thank God for working through Louie and for the strength He provides!  What a great and loving God we serve!

Marianne and Louie are keeping busy preparing for Selma's Cancer Support Circle the City Walk.  The theme is going to be giraffes, "Stand tall in the fight against head and neck cancer."  They will be participating in this 24 hour event along with family and friends.  They are going to camp out at Pioneer Village in Selma and will be hosting a free oral cancer screening at the two campsites.  If you would like to join their team please contact Louie or Marianne and they will get you registered.  If you would like to support them in this event feel free to send a donation to Selma Cancer Support with a note for team Louie Rodriguez.  You can mail the check to one of two places:

Selma's Cancer Support

2128 North Street

Selma, Ca 93662

Selma's Cancer Support 

c/o Louie and Marianne Rodriguez

1711 Tucker Street 

Selma, Ca 93662

Louie and Marianne recently had a family reunion and it was quite a fiesta!  They both enjoyed seeing their loved ones and had a wonderful time!  Louie is looking forward to the next season of what God has planned for him!  Specifically, he is looking forward to not having to go to the cancer center everyday, seeing his son Dan get married in November, seeing his family from near and far at the wedding, a complete cancer free diagnosis and regaining his physical strength and gaining some weight back!  

Louie is excited for a sense of normalcy in his life yet he knows that he will never be the same!  God has changed him and revealed so much to him through this journey.  Louie and Marianne continue to see God at work in their own lives as well as the lives of others.  They have learned that you definitely can not out-give God!  

Thank you again for your continued love, support and encouragement, it means the world to Louie and Marianne!  John 3:16

Until next time, keep on praying!

The Hands and Feet...

I would like to start by saying thank you for all of your prayers for Louie!  Yesterday Louie and Marianne found out that they have been granted a year-long approval for the medication needed for the mutation.  This approval is for a replacement medication as a specialty therapeutic.  This is wonderful news even though it means Louie has to have more chemo.   This is going to be a great relief because out-of-pocket medical bills have been hitting them pretty hard.  Again, thank you for your prayers, God is good!

Yesterday Louie also had his 2nd day of radiation consultation and simulation.  They met with a social worker, nurse and the radiation oncologist.  The simulation was extremely confining and restrictive which proved to be rough on Louie and made him feel claustrophobic.  Louie had a face mask made for him which added to his anxiousness.  The good news is his treatments will only last 10-15 minutes.  He will undergo 37 treatments beginning August 8th.  We ask that you join us in praying for Louie as he begins the next leg of his journey. 

Louie and Marianne also spoke with the Chemo Oncologist yesterday and he will let them know Tuesday (Louie's 48th birthday!!!) whether or not any chemo will accompany the radiation.  Louie's infection is continuing to clear up and he is slowly beginning to eat normally again.  They will meet with a dietician on August 12th who will help them plan his meals during radiation.  Lets continue to pray for God's guidance for the doctor's as they care for Louie.

Louie and Marianne were extremely excited to return to church this past Sunday, it was great for them to be there.  Louie was still sick from the infection so the deacons anointed him with oil, laid hands on him and prayed.  They also spoke declarations over him, it was very comforting to have them come and pray.  Louie and Marianne continue to be blessed by the hands of Christ.  Last Tuesday Louie was so sick and weak that he had to be taken to his appointment in a wheelchair.  When they returned home their pastor along with Nancy and Steve were there to lay hands on him and pray.  God's timing continues to be spot on, always just when Louie needs it most. 

Louie and Marianne said that a highlight of their week was receiving a scrapbook of photos from my family.  We sent them a book filled with pictures of their (adorable) grandkids.  They love our kids so much and our kids adore them.  Liam prays for his Papa every night before dinner.  He asks God to make him not sick any more and for the tiny ugly germs (how he would describe an infection) to get out!  We were happy to send a little ray of sunshine into Papa and Grammie's week!

Please keep on praying and be the hands and feet of Jesus like so many have been (Bobby, Nancy, Steve, David, Sam, Keith, Pastor Jared, Fanny, Una, Rosalie, Michael, Magali, Penny, Rita and everyone else that have been just that to Louie and Marianne).  You can be the hands and feet by simply praying for others, delivering a meal, mowing a lawn or just stopping by to deliver a hug.  Marianne and Louie love you guys and appreciate all you have done and continue to do for them. 

Remember to wish Louie a very happy birthday Tuesday!  He will be celebrating on Saturday by having THE BEST BBQ all the way from Texas, Rudy's!  He is so excited and said it almost brings a tear to his eye, lol! 

Lots of love!

God's perfect plan

Last week Louie and Marianne saw a different Oncologist (theirs was out of town) and Louie's blood pressure was good but he lost 6 lbs and his sodium was a little low.  He wasn't dehydrated but was still having stomach complications so he was given a long-lasting shot to help with this.  He had been having a rough time sleeping and struggling with the side effects of the chemo but he is happy to be disconnected from the port so he can sleep on his stomach again!  

Louie and Marianne heard back from the insurance company and the Her2 mutation medication was denied but Louie was given his 3rd dose last week.  They will begin the process of appealing the state insurance board as they are already almost $7,000 into the treatment.  Please pray that God will sort out the details in this matter, they are not worried though because whatever the outcome God is in control!  Louie and Marianne feel extremely blessed that they have a doctor who is on their side and doing everything he can to give Louie the best possible care.  They are trusting that God will make a way!  They continue to trust God is everything and know that He will never leave them or forsake them, He is always there!  

This week the chemo has continued to be really rough on Louie's body and he lost another 5 lbs but they are trusting that God will not give them any more than they can handle.  Their Oncologist was still out of town this week so they met with the same doctor as last week.  This doctor has been more sensitive to Louie's symptom management which has been a real blessing.  They are running some tests to be sure Louie doesn't have an infection and put him on some new medication to ease the discomfort.  At this point they have stopped all treatment until they can get this resolved so in the mean time Louie will get some much needed rest and some time for his body to strengthen.  He is starting to have a bit of cabin fever and is having to eat a pretty bland diet (he is missing his cookies and milk!!) so we are praying he will begin to feel better, get the rest he needs and that there is no infection.

Louie and Marianne continue to trust God in this journey and Louie speaks His name and His Word out loud and often.  Louie shared today that he went to God first with his healing, for many years he has gone to God in prayer.  He remembers asking God to heal him and let the tumors dissolve.  He has been prayed over by pastors, evangelists, family and friends but God has other plans.  God has a journey for Louie and it is all in HIS perfect timing!  We can already see how many people have been changed by hearing Louie's story and trust that God will use this for His glory.

Louie and Marianne continue to be beyond blessed by all of their wonderful family members and friends.  They feel your prayers and their love for the body of Christ continues to grow each and every day.  They love the pictures, texts, cards, emails and support you all continue to pour out.  They read each and every message they receive so keep them coming!  A big thank you to all of those that showed up at their home to pray and offer encouragement, Louie and Marianne cherish your love and friendship.

Louie and Marianne are also happy and excited to see God's healing hand in the lives of others, He deserves all of the glory and honor and praise.  Please join with us in praying for God to work in and through Marianne and Louie on this journey.  

Latest Appointment

Hi everyone!  Sorry for the delay in getting this up but it has been pretty busy around my house with family visiting and the 4th of July fun!  Hope you all had a great day yesterday!

So as for an update, Louie saw the Oncologist again this past Tuesday.  He has lost 3 lbs but his blood pressure and blood counts continue to be good!  Louie and Marianne thought they would be going in so that Louie could get his chemo pump refilled but it turned out that he needed to get his second dose of Herceptin (HER2 medication-Louie and Marianne should hear back on the appeal to the insurance company in a few days, keep praying!).  Louie also had to stay for treatment, additional testing and because he was dehydrated he also had to stay and be hydrated.  What should have been a short day turned into 6 hours at the cancer center but Louie and Marianne made the best of it.

Louie will have a consult with the radiation oncologist very soon!  They will be giving him the HER2 medication weekly and will be adding another chemo drug to help the radiation be more effective beginning with a 7 day infusion.  Louie is still fighting the side effects of the chemo so keep praying! Louie and Marianne are still working together to figure out the best diet for Louie and the best way to manage his side effects.  Marianne is working hard to meet all of Louie's needs and asks that you would pray for her as she learns and grows through this time.

Louie and Marianne are feeling especially blessed that her Uncle flew all the way from Troy, Ohio!  He is taking time to support them, spend quality time with them and help them through this trying time.  He also accompanied them to the appointment and because he was there the doctor checked Louie for dehydration!  God is continuing to place people in the lives of Louie and Marianne to bless them, God is so good!

Please continue to pray for Louie!  We are extremely thankful for all the works God has already done and a big thank you for all of your constant prayers.

God heals for free!

Louie and Marianne went in to see the oncologist this past Tuesday and so we have another update for all of you.  Louie's blood pressure is good, he hasn't lost any weight and on top of that his blood counts are normal!

Last time I posted we asked that you pray specifically that the insurance company would approve the medication for the Her 2 mutation.  Unfortunately it was not approved but with God there is always a way!  The Oncologist told Louie that he is going to add it to his treatment anyways because it is the right thing to do, how awesome!  The doctor has decided to appeal the insurance company and send a request to the drug manufacturer on their behalf.  After filling out tons of paperwork the doctor let them know that he is going to do absolutely everything he can to take care of them.  He assured them that he will fight the insurance company and take legal action if necessary (according to one of his staff members he has taken on and sued insurance companies often and won).  He is a wonderfully devoted doctor!  We ask that you all unite with us in agreement that God has already given Louie and Marianne victory over this! 

The doctor went on to tell them about 2 other cases where this medication was used successfully for the same type of cancer and in both cases they achieved complete remission.  Let's pray the same outcome for Louie in his fight!  The doctor is determined to press on, he ordered the additional chemo from the pharmacy, Louie and Marianne are joining the doctor and stepping out in faith.

This specific medication the doctor would like Louie to use is extremely expensive.  The loading dose is $3,450.00 and then it costs $1,750.00/week (Louie will be on the medication now through radiation).  Louie also has a seven day infusion coming up.  I am sure we can all imagine how overwhelming and shocking the price on the medication had to have been to Louie and Marianne! In the moments following receiving this news Louie looked at Marianne and said "God heals for free!  He already paid the price!"  What an amazing way of facing yet another roadblock in this crazy road to recovery! 

After seeing the Oncologist Louie had his chemo and they were informed that they no longer have to make their co-pay each visit, praise God!  They spent 10 1/2 hours at the cancer center and were exhausted after a very long day.  When Louie and Marianne arrived home they were greeted by 10 of their friends and family members from church.  Even though they were extremely tired God knew that it was the perfect time.  They were blessed with flowers, food, chocolate cream pie (Louie's favorite!) and gift cards!  They also took them time to minister to Louie and Marianne and sing a beautiful song called "I am the God That Healeth Thee" over them.

Please continue to join us in prayer and thank you to all of you for the constant love and support!

Dare to believe!

Hello again!  It's been awhile!

The benefit dinner for Louie has now come and gone and it was a huge success!  There was a wonderful turnout, the food was fabulous and the entertainment was so much fun.  The audience even convinced Louie to play the drums!  Marianne and Louie want to thank everyone for attending and for all of the hard work that went into making it happen.  They definitely felt the love (and the heat...it was 109 degrees!!!)

 My family and I were beyond blessed to be able to fly out from our home in Kansas to attend.  Liam and Kaili loved the time they were able to spend with Grammi and Papa (Marianne and Louie) and Liam is still talking about having big muscles like Papa! We were able to get our In n Out craving taken care of and even went to the zoo as well, it was a great time!

Louie and Marianne saw the oncologist again this past Tuesday and got an update.  Louie has only lost 3 lbs total since being diagnosed, his blood pressure is still good and he has only had a few side effects (blisters on his lip, bloody noses, fatigue and nausea) which are all normal reactions to the chemo.  The doctor explained that Louie will have one more chemo cycle which will begin next week (lasting 2 weeks) and then he will have a week off to rest.  Immediately after that he will begin radiation along with a low dose of chemo for 6-8 weeks.

The cancer is still localized in his neck (at the surgical sight) as well as in level 5 where the 1 cancerous node was removed.  The doctor is doing everything he can to reduce the risk of recurrance, he even down graded the cancer from stage 4 to stage 3, praise God!!!!

The oncologist performed some extra tests on Louie and he did test a strong positive for Her 2 mutation.  This has the potential to promote the growth of the cancer cells so Louie and Marianne have applied for approval for a chemo drug that could help.  Please join them in praying that the insurance company will approve the medication and that it will be effective!  This drug is currently approved for breast cancer and esphogal cancer so we are praying that it will also be approved for parotid gland cancer so that Louie can be one of the first to use it!  In Jesus name we will all join in believing that God will take care of this mutation whether it be through this medication or some other way.  With God there is always a way!

Louie is continuing to take it easy which allows him time to pray, thank God, study his Bible, minister and fellowship with others and enjoy sitting in the Lord's presence.  Louie and Marianne want everyone to know that everything isn't perfect but even in the most difficult times God is faithful.  They know that as they go through this trial they need to stand, declare and dare to believe all that God has for them!  They will not allow their faith to be weakened, they know that God is ever present and that there is something for them to gain through this battle with cancer.  They have decided that they will not sit home and let cancer become a prison, they will instead be fruitful, help others and continue to lean on the promises of God!  I think we could all benefit from that kind of attitude, no matter what our circumstances, don't you?

Here is a verse from Louie and Marianne for you to ponder today:  

Philippians 1:29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him.

 Just as Paul considered it a privilege to suffer for Christ so does Louie.  This is hard to wrap our heads around because we do not by nature consider suffering a privilege. Yet, when we suffer illness, hardships, family problems, loss of loved ones, etc.. if we chose to faithfully represent Christ, our message and example affect not only us but others for good. It takes our eyes off of earthly comforts, strengthens the faith of those who endure, and it unites believers to pray and fight the enemy for a Godly cause! We will tell the world that the gospel is true by living this out!

As a final encouragement to you, Louie and Marianne are choosing to take God at His Word and they would like to dare you to believe the same in your own life.  What God has done and continues to do for Louie, He WILL do for you!

Keep on praying!

-Sara

Chemo Round Two

Yesterday Louie and Marianne headed back to St. Agnes for round 2 of Louie's chemo.  They saw the Oncologist first and had some blood drawn.  Louie's white blood cell count was good and the Oncologist was again very encouraged and gave them a good report. 

Louie and Marianne were blessed during Louie's first chemo treatment by a nurse named Jessica who took the time to really explain everything and make Louie feel comfortable.  They were pleasantly surprised when they saw Jessica open the waiting room door yesterday and call Louie's name, God is good and continues to show his favor!  Praise God for people like Jessica who use their job to bless others everyday.

Louie has experienced minimal side effects from the Chemo thus far which is a huge answer to prayers!  Louie doesn't have to receive his Chemo at the cancer center again until June 4th which is great news as well.  The way that Louie's chemo will work is he will have it going through the port in his chest 24 hours a day until May 28th and then he will have a week to rest. Please continue to pray that Louie would have little to no side effects and feel well through this time. 

Marianne and Louie want all of you to know how overwhelmed with gratefulness they feel for the body of Christ.  God continues to use the right people at the right time to bless and encourage them through conversations, texts, phone calls and more.  They received words of encouragement, healing and life (along with some awesome food) from James and Myrna Horn as well as from Steve and Sarah Guidry, thank you all for being God's hands and feet!   They cannot stop thanking God for all He has done, Marianne and Louie will never be the same.  Our God is faithful!

A very special thank you to all of Louie and Marianne's friends and family, church body and new friends they have made along the way!  Thank you for supporting them, encouraging them and for your time and prayers.  They love you all!  Keep on praying!

Chemo Round One

Yesterday Louie and Marianne met with the Oncologist again and got some more information and insight.  It was a long hard day but Louie was able to get some peace after speaking to Uncle John in Ohio.  Praise God for placing people in our lives at just the right time, He is faithful!

The Oncologist says that Louie's blood pressure was the lowest it has been and his heart muscle is in wonderful condition!  We are still waiting to hear back on the mutation tests but the PET scan revealed that the cancer has not metastasized anywhere, another answer to prayers!

Louie's diagnosis is a high grade Carcinoma of the right Parotid.  It is a moderately advanced cancer so he will be undergoing aggressive Chemo and Radiation to make sure there is no recurrence or microscopic cancer left in his body.  Please pray that the treatment will be extremely effective and that Louie will  feel good as he continues going through the treatments.

Today was Louie's first Chemo treatment and he did very well.  It has been a bit rough the last couple of days but Louie knows that God is in the driver's seat and he is sitting comfortably in the passenger seat.  Louie will have a total of three Chemo treatments, each one lasting twenty one days.  Most of it will be done at home through an infusion system and he will have one week during each phase to rest which is wonderful.  After Chemo he will have 6 to 8 weeks of radiation and then after another period of rest he will have another PET scan. 

This is sure to be a long and hard road for both Louie and Marianne so let's continue to lift them up daily.  Louie is glad to be done with his first treatment and is feeling better now that he knows more of what to expect.  Louie is a fighter and continues to choose to trust in God and choose to be joyful even in such a difficult time.  God is bigger than cancer and cares deeply for His children.  He promises to care for us and walk with us and we are thankful for that promise!

Thank you again for your love and support, it is truly appreciated!

Oncology Appointment

Yesterday morning Louie and Marianne went to see the Oncologist and were able to get some more answers.  The doctor was extremely thorough spending almost an hour with them explaining Louie's diagnosis and the next steps he needs to take.  

To put it as simply as possible, Louie has been diagnosed with head and neck cancer (Parotid gland high grade carcinoma that has metastasized to a lymph node in his neck).  There is more to it than that, but it is a lot of information, God will take care of all the details!  

The next step for Louie is for him to undergo a week of testing and treatments.  This will include a chest x-ray, PET scan, dental treatments, blood tests and an outpatient surgery to install a dual port (a device that will allow for quick and easy access to a vein for administering medication).  All of this will be done this week and will help with staging the cancer.  The doctor is also ordering additional testing to check for 1 or 2 types of tumor mutations which will determine if Louie would benefit from additional medication. Louie will begin with between 4-12 weeks chemo starting the week of May 13th followed by 6 weeks of radiation and then another PET scan.  Please join us in praying for for Louie and Marianne through these continued trials praying specifically that the treatment would be extremely effective.  

James 1:12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

Now for some of the good news!!!  The Oncologist was very pleased that the Lipoma on Louie's back is unchanged and his chest x-ray from 2006 is also unchanged with no evidence of metastasis.  He has no facial palsy and his blood pressure was great.  The Oncologist told Louie and Marianne that he has a personal interest in Louie so we know he is going to get the best treatment possible by someone who cares about him!  The most amazing thing about all of this is Louie has absolutely no symptoms which would indicate the cancer has spread!    Louie is proclaiming that God has the last word!  Let's continue to praise God and thank Him for all He has already done and what He will continue to do in and through Louie.  As always your love and support means the world to Louie and Marianne, to God be the glory!  

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Until next time!  

-Sara

Another visit to the doctor!

Louie had an appointment with the surgeon today and we got good news once again!  The doctor removed the rest of Louie's stitches and said Louie looks great! He said Louie can slowly resume activities like driving, yard work, exercising, etc.  He was very impressed with how quickly Louie continues to heal, it has only been 2 weeks since the surgery.

The doctor's staff are always excited when they see Louie, in fact two of them said he is a miracle and they will always remember him.  God continues to use Louie and these trials to transform lives!  Louie is quite popular amongst the staff, I think it has something to do with the love and joy he shares with those he meets :)))

The surgeon thanked Marianne and Louie again for the gift they gave him which was a small plaque for his desk with Phillipians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." The doctor said when future patients ask him what they can do for him he will ask them for something with a verse that is meaningful to them.  That way he can remember each patient by their scripture they chose!  How awesome is that? 

Now on to the medical stuff.  The cancer the doctor found was in a low neck node and he will be meeting with the tumor board this Thursday. The board is from Stanford University and they will be meeting to determine the best course for a cure, the doctor said he will refer Louie to the best radiology oncologists for the diagnosis.  Louie and Marianne feel so appreciative that the surgeon is so thorough and taking such great care of them!  God knew what He was doing when he chose the surgeon to care of Louie!

Louie and Marianne meet with the doctor again next Wednesday to find out more.  In the past, the doctor has always been quick to let them know what to expect or what he suspected Louie had.  Today however the doctor said he thought he knew, but decided not to say anything.  Louie and Marianne wonder if the doctor is hesitant to say anything because of all the miracles that have already taken place.  Maybe he is getting ready for another miracle!  

Even though they do not have a diagnosis Louie and Marianne are still encouraged!

They are standing upon God's continued healing. He's going to finish what He started!

Louie and Marianne continue to be so thankful for your prayers and support and would like to share some of the love with the awesome surgeon who has been taking care of Louie.  If you would like to help out send a card or letter thanking Doctor Brien Tonkinson. His address is Central California Ear, Nose & Throat 1351 E. Spruce Fresno, Ca 93720.  Let's shower Doctor Tonkinson with God's love and tell him how much we appreciate the time he has put into helping Louie beat cancer!  

Until next time!  -Sara

Ways to support!

There have been lots of people asking how they can help support Louie and Marianne so below you will find two ways you can! 

First, if you live in or around the Selma area you are invited to benefit dinner on Saturday June 8th at 5:00 p.m. at Lincoln Park in Selma, Ca.  If you would like more information please let us know and we will send you the rest of the details.

Another way you can help is by sporting a bracelet supporting Louie's battle against cancer.  The bracelets have Louie's name on one side and Psalm 118:17 on the other.  You can get a bracelet by making a donation of any amount.  They are available at Kratos Music Center, Valley Life Community Church and Selma Chamber of Commerce.  If you do not live in the area and you would like to donate and receive a bracelet either leave a comment below or email Marianne at mariannerodriguez12@gmail.com. 

90% of the proceeds will go directly to Louie's medical expenses and radiation treatments and the remaining 10% will go towards neck cancer research.  Please make checks payable to Valley Life Community Church.

Doctors visit today

Louie went in to see the doctor today as a follow up to his surgery.  The doctor says Louie looks great and he continues to heal extremely fast, the doctor even removed half of the stitches today (much sooner than expected).  The doctor also removed the Jackson Pratt drain that Louie had in place.

Marianne and Louie return to see the doctor again next Tuesday to have the rest of the stitches removed and to get the results from the cancer panel.  The surgeon says it looks like Louie will probably have to have some radiation, he continues to be very positive and encouraged!  Louie needs to continue to rest and take it easy.

Marianne and Louie have been so blessed by the doctor and the work he has done.  They brought him a gift today as a little thank you.  The doctor asked if he could open it and said he hoped it was something with scripture on it (and it was).  It is so awesome to see God working not only in the Rodriguez family but in the doctor and many others as well.  The doctor hugged Louie twice today at the appointment and Louie was glad to hear all of the good news.  God is good!  You will all be happy to hear that Louie finally got his In-n-Out burger today after his appointment :))))  I sit here in Kansas wishing I was there to enjoy one with him!

Louie continues to be thankful for all of you and feels like God is really speaking to him.  He is trying to be still and listen to the direction God is giving him.  He wants to share the amazing things that God has done and wants to use his experience to change the lives of others.  He would like for God's children to know that God can and will do miracles for anyone.  God loves all of His children and would do anything for them!

Louie continues to seek the Lord and serve Him.  If you live in or around Selma, Louie will be giving his testimony this Sunday.  He will be speaking at 10 a.m. at Valley Life Communtiy Church in Selma. God is going to do great things through Louie, come out and hear his miraculous story!

Thanks again for your love and support!

-Sara

Happy to be home!

Happy Monday everyone!  Louie and Marianne had a great weekend at home.  They were surrounded by lots of family and friends and spent a lot of their time in the Word and in prayer.  Louie is feeling wonderful physically and his heart if overflowing with thankfulness!

Marianne has found her calling as nurse to Louie :)  She is enjoying taking care of him and watching him heal at a supernatural speed.  Louie continues to be proof that God can and will do miraculous things for His children. 

Louie and Marianne would like to say a special thank you to all of you for continuing to pray for Louie and to all of the people who have stopped by, called and texted them.

Louie's question today is "Is there someone you can show God's love to today?  How will you do it?"

-Sara

Heading home!

Louie and Marianne are happy to say they get to go home!  They were able to meet with the doctor and were given tons of information.  Here are some of the highlights of the report:

-Louie's diagnosis is called Pleomorphic Adenoma (the most common tumor of the salivary glands) gone bad.
-The doctor removed 30 lymph nodes and only one of those was positive for cancer.  The cancerous node was found in level 5.  The location of lymph nodes are referred to by levels, see photo below.
-The doctor was going to stop the surgery after level 3 but felt like something wasn't right (can you say Holy Spirit???) so he continued on through level 5.  The cancerous node would not have been found if he had stopped!
-The doctor is not pleased that the cancer was found in level 5, we are unsure of why but will find out more as time goes on.

-Doctor seems positive that radiation will be part of Louie's treatment plan but it will still go to a cancer panel to determine the plan of action.
-Louie's weight gain is no longer a concern for the doctor, but you can still bake him something yummy :))))
-The next medical steps won't take place for about another month.
-Louie and Marianne should be heading home any time now and Louie is instructed to take it easy and lay low.

Louie with the doctor

Louie and Marianne continue to be blown away by the way God is working.  As they were talking to the doctor he told them that there was no way he could have done the surgery alone.  He pointed up and said "He was with me."  The doctor is giving the glory to God and says that prayer and faith works.  How awesome is that?  We are all feeling an overwhelming sense of joy and God deserves all of the praise for what He has done.  I am sure Louie and Marianne can't wait to get home, thank you all again for your steadfast prayers and support! 

Prayer Request

It looks like the doctor won't be in until 4:00 or 4:30 and the nurse says they may have to stay one more night.  Louie and Marianne would love to head out today and enjoy the comfort of being home, please pray that this would be possible.  Thanks everyone!

The Lord at work.

Today has been a wonderful day for Louie and Marianne so far.  Louie is feeling great and continues to heal faster than anyone thought imaginable.  Louie slept well last night and is even rocking his blue jeans today, haha!  They are hoping that the doctor will be in to discharge them after lunch today.  They are still accepting visitors today if you would like to stop by, room 677 at Saint Agnes in Fresno.

Healing quickly!

Both Louie and Marianne continue to be blessed by the way the Lord is working through their family and friends, literally God's hand extended.  His body and His word are both alive and powerful and they are very thankful!  Tuesday the pathology report will be in so please keep on praying!

 Reading the Word.

If you live in the area there will be a dinner for Louie on Saturday June 8th at the Selma Senior Center and Russ Noble Band Stand.  Dinner will begin at 5 o'clock and Joey V's Bringing it Back Band will be performing.  I know that Louie and Marianne would love to see you all there! 

Question of the day from Louie is "How can you be His hands and feet today?"  Post a comment below for Louie to read :)

-Sara

A day of praise!

Marianne and Louie are praising God and happy as can be this evening.  As the day has progressed it has continued to get better and better.

They were able to meet with the doctor today and he let them know that a second surgery will not be needed!  He also let them know that pathology would have called if the results weren't good, so praise God for no news.  The doctor also commented on how wonderfully the incision on Louie's neck has healed, he couldn't believe how great it looked. 

There was a special moment today when the doctor looked at Louie and said he would never forget him for the rest of his life.  He then pointed up to the heavens and said "it was God."  Wow.  God is good all the time!

Marianne was able to talk to a family friend today who is a police officer and he let her know that there will be a spaghetti dinner fundraiser in Louie's honor.  How cool is that?  He also said he would get them a police escort home from the hospital :)))

It looks like Louie will get to head home tomorrow and the doctor is optimistic that the cancer will be treatable with some radiation.  We thank you again for all of your prayers and couldn't be happier with they way God is working! 

Leave a comment letting us know what you are thankful for in your life, Louie is enjoying reading your comments!

A walking miracle!

Much to my surprise I received a phone call this morning from Louie himself!  He sounds absolutely wonderful and it was awesome to hear his voice!  Louie says he is feeling great and even walking around.  He isn't in any pain (praise the Lord) and hasn't had to take any pain medication.  He is on antibiotics and has a temporary drainage tube in place, they are hoping to meet with the doctor again today.  This morning the nurse couldn't believe how well Louie was doing and said he may even be able to go home today or tomorrow!  If you would like to visit today you are absolutely welcome to, just try to keep your visit short so Louie can get some rest.

God is continuing to use Louie and these trials to speak to and through the entire family and is revealing Himself.  Louie proclaimed in the name of Christ that God is still in the miracle business and he was right!  We are all in awe of how well Louie is doing and how seamlessly the surgery went.  To God be the glory for all He has done!

Time for some rest!

Sara here again with the final update of the night!  The family was able to go in and see Louie and he is doing great!  He wanted to know how his hair looked and even said he is ready for some In-n-out!

Yummm!

He is absolutely overflowing with joy and was blown away that upon waking up he could blink and move his mouth (what an answer to prayer).  His pain level is very low and he has been talking up a storm.  His mom had to help remind him to be quiet and rest!  The family couldn't be more happy with the outcome today.  Lots of rest is in order for Louie,  he is still in recovery waiting for a room.  Thank you again for all of your prayers and support, God is good!

Prayer works!

I am extremely pleased to report that Louie is out of surgery and doing wonderful!  Thank you Father!  Marianne reports that Louie is wide awake and even smiling :)  The doctor even came out proclaiming that prayer works and that this is a good day!  Surgery could not have gone any better.  The whole family praised in the hallway!!!

Marianne got a full report from the doctor, here are some of the highlights:
-All of the tumors were successfully removed and Louie is in recovery
-All of the cancer was under the nerves and it was all removed
-The way the tumors were laid out and how the cancer grew was ideal for removal, doc said it was the absolute best case scenario
- A skin graft wasn't needed, the doctor was able to use the skin on the neck
-Louie should be home in 3 days, no intensive care was needed
-The only damage done was slight nerve damage to the right corner of his mouth and it is only temporary

Can you say WOW?  How great is our God?

God is continuing to use Louie and this trial to bring others closer to the Lord.  God is working to bring restoration to those around Louie and continues to build the family stronger.  The whole family is overjoyed and thankful for your unified faith and prayers.

Please pray that the type of cancer Louie has will be responsive to treatment and pray for a quick recovery and lots of healing rest. 

No visitors today, check back tomorrow to see if Louie is feeling up to having guests. 

-Sara

Ahead of schedule....

Just heard that the tumors are out 2 hours earlier than we anticipated!  God is in control and His timing is perfect!  The surgeon is closing up Louie's neck now and Marianne will receive a full update from the doctor in an hour!  Thank you all for your steadfast prayers! 

-Sara

Nice to finally meet you....

This morning as the doctor came in to talk with Louie about the surgery he stood at the foot of the bed and said "Nice to finally meet you Louie."  This seems a bit odd because they had met before.  The doctor was referring to the peace and sense of calm that Louie was filled with since they last met, the initial shock had worn off.  Before going in for surgery Louie continued to speak of the peace and love he feels.

Before the surgery this morning the family gathered together and prayed.  They are proclaiming the "healing scriptures," check them out here:  Healing Scriptures.

The family at the hospital

This morning Louie had miracles on his mind.  Louie knows that through the grace of God he is going to be a living miracle.  He wants to be a witness to those around him and prove that miracles still happen today and he will be the evidence.  God is at work!

Medically, the cancer in the tumors is fast growing with an unknown origin.  After the tumors are removed they will be sent off to pathology and in 1-2 weeks they will have a more clear diagnosis.  Once they know what it is specifically a cancer panel will give Louie a treatment plan.  The next surgery will be in 4-6 weeks.

Louie will likely be in surgery for another couple of hours and the doctor is optimistic about his recovery.  He says that Louie may be able to go home in as little as 3 days!  One thing of medical importance is Louie's ability to move his neck after surgery, please pray that Louie will be able to do this as soon as possible to aid in healing.  The doctor is hoping to have Louie moving his neck and maybe even eating tonight, let's pray that this will be possible!

 Before surgery

The doctor's number one concern while Louie is recovering is his weight gain.  If you would like to help Louie feel free to send him some sweets, I hear he loves cookies :)))))

This is where the healing begins....

Hi all,

Just got an update from Marianne.  Louie went in for surgery around 8 a.m. this morning and the doctor was very encouraging!  He said he will be operating for about 3-6 hours so Louie and Marianne told each other "see you in a few hours." 

Praise God for the confidence we have in Him and for the peace only He can provide. Continue to pray for the surgeon to be guided and directed by the Lord and for the cancer to be contained in the tumors.  Pray for peace and strength for Marianne as she waits.  Our God is bigger than cancer!

Keep your eye out for the next update and keep on praying!
-Sara

This is the day....

Louie and Marianne arrived at the hospital this morning to begin preparing for surgery at 5:30 a.m..  Surgery is scheduled to begin at 7:30 a.m..

Louie is proclaiming this morning that "this is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it!"

Check in throughout the day for updates, we will do our best to let everyone know how Louie is doing.

Feel free to leave a comment to encourage Marianne and Louie today, they really do cherish all of the love and support that you all have been pouring over them.

We serve a mighty God!  Keep praying!

-Sara

The journey begins....

Louie and Marianne

On April 3, 2013 Louie and Marianne found out that Louie has cancer.  That is one word you don't ever want to hear.  From the moment they found out they have been caught up in a whirlwind of emotion and LOTS of prayer.  Louie and Marianne have spent a lot of time reflecting on how very blessed they are and say they are definitely "feeling the love."  They are surrounded by wonderful family, friends and church family.  They are grateful for all of the prayers, love and words of encouragement that you have all been showering them with.

 

Before surgery (neck tumors)

Along with a diagnosis like cancer comes clarity on what is truly important and it offers us a new perspective.  Louie would like to challenge all of you to take a step back and ask yourselves if there are things you are holding on to that God can help you let go of.  Are there blessings in your life that you may be overlooking or taking for granted that can restore your joy today?  Louie is choosing joy and peace in the midst of his circumstances and is proclaiming that GOD IS BIGGER THAN CANCER!  Isn't is amazing how God can use Louie to encourage his brothers and sisters in Christ at a time like this?  

This morning Louie and Marianne woke up and studied Psalm 118-119.  They took time to seek God and ask for peace and strength during this time of trial.  They have spent the majority of the day on the phone and knee deep in paperwork preparing for surgery.

Louie will check in to Saint Agnes Hospital tomorrow morning April 10th at 5:30 a.m.  Surgery will begin at 7:30 a.m. and we will do our best to keep everyone updated on how it goes.  Check back in tomorrow to get updates and find out when they will be taking visitors. 

Louie and Marianne would ask that you pray for them and pray specifically for the following:
-Pray that the cancer would be contained in the tumors
-Pray for the surgeons hands to be used and guided by God
-Pray for strength and peace for Louie

Louie and Marianne will be updating the blog periodically with updates as well as questions that Louie comes up with for you to ponder (and comment if you would like, he will be checking comments!)

The first two questions are:
Do you believe in miracles?
Whose name is above all names?

 

Tomorrow Louie's road to recovery begins and he is putting his spiritual boxing gloves on, he is ready to FIGHT!

Lot of love, 
Sara Mardock (daughter of Louie and Marianne)