The past few months have flown by so quickly! And, things are not at all the way that I had planned! Earlier this spring, I began working on a new book proposal. I interviewed people for the book, began writing it, and then something very odd happened. I became very ill, not just in one way, but many unusual things began happening to my body. I have suffered from chronic pain and fatigue for many years. However, this was very different. I was not able to walk, to bend, to exercise as usual despite having physical therapy for several months. The only time I experienced any relief was during pool therapy.

I went to my physician and inquired about the bizarre bleeding I was having, but she was unable to explain it. If it continued, then I would need a colonoscopy. Yes, it did continue and in addition to it continuing, I was gifted with another surprise. Although past menopause, I began bleeding in another area. I had been praying the Surrender to the Will of God Novena and desired to do the Lord’s will in all things. I kept abandoning myself to the Lord and began feeling as if He was calling me to a new mission.

I have been a prayer intercessor for several different groups for many years. Now I was to become the victim — the offering — for the conversion and reversion of sinners and the salvation of souls. “Your will be done, Lord”, I prayed. In the midst of the Sex Abuse Crisis in the Church, the Lord was asking me to pray for the victims, the innocent priests, and the abusers. At the same time, He was asking me to suffer as a means of reparation for both my sins and those of others. I thanked and praised Him for this grace-filled opportunity.

Seven doctors and numerous medical tests later, I discovered I needed a hip replacement and that I had cancer. While I had scheduled the hip replacement, it had to be postponed until I was cured of cancer. This was personally very disappointing, but God sees the broader picture and knows what is best for us. Now, I thought this isn’t so bad. I have the support of my dear husband. I can always count on him.

Well, not exactly. At least not this time. My dear husband has had A-fib for ages, which has always been under control with medications and supplements. Then, the A-fib returned and could not be controlled. Heart Surgery is the only solution. Now, he supports me as best as he can, but it is not without much struggle and pain.

“It hurts to become a saint,” a priest friend explained. Now, I am a long way from being a saint, but that is my ultimate goal. And, I would much rather work out my purgatory here on earth than after my demise. I am just asking the Lord to be gentle with me. I also pray for all the virtues and support I need to see this battle through. I know Jesus, Mary, Joseph, the holy angels, and the Communion of Saints will help me become victorious, no matter what the outcome.

Now, I humbly ask you to join me in prayer for the spiritual strength, stamina, and fortitude to remain faithful to the Lord. I am praying that He will transform all my vices into virtues as he purifies me and as I draw nearer to Him. Pray for my dear husband, too. He has to live with me.

If you would like to assist us with our financial challenges during this difficult time of battling cancer and heart problems, please see our GoFundMe campaign to donate. Thank you for considering this and for sharing it with others. We need your help. God bless you!

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