GRACE.
Preface this with an apology for dropping the ball on my Turmeric blog posts. Life has taken a high traffic road, and I've been stuck. Here, is a story of Grace to share.
GRACE.
I have to say, this situation Tory has found herself in tests my faith. Prior to this, we were avid church goers, worked hard helping to spread God's peace... then a headache/earache turns into a full blown brain tumor metastasized from melanoma somewhere- and today, my sister in Christ, lays in hospice, valiantly waiting for her last breath. She spent almost a year fighting this with all the medical professionals had for her... and even more...her husband will become a widower, and her children will now be without their mother.
Sitting with her during her last hours on this earth, considering God and His Plan, I could not resolve the question of "where is God now?" An age old question, indeed...
As I expressed this out loud, the revelation of truth came swiftly.
We had been diligently serving God through this ministry. Much time sacrifice to do this. I watched as Tory took on the burdens of others- serving pretty much selflessly, with no real gratitude being shown from the recipients. Yet, Tory hung in- and helped every time... to the detriment of her own life space.
I came to the conclusion, sitting by her side, feeling her frustration...that Tory is one of the strongest individuals I know. She fought this fight and many other of lifes battles, with great valour- accepted treatments she knew would have severe side effects- just to make that herculean effort to keep her life on earth. Two brain surgeries, (which paralyzed her swallow mechanism) full brain radiation, blasting experimental chemo- followed by cyber knife surgery, followed by immunotherapy- and all that entailed-.. Not being able to walk, eat, drink, barely able to communicate- watching as the world goes by.. clinging to the hope that the grueling course of chemotherapies would stop the cancer from continuing.... it didn’t work.
I didn’t understand Gods plan, and segwayed to the idea that there are some things we will never be able to intellectualize. Then it hit me.
So many people have been inspired by Torys fight. Her spirit. Her desire to live no matter what she had to do. She has children to raise, and animals to love, and a husband worth his current weight in absolute GOLD...
The Grace in which she handled this debilitating disease is noteworthy, for sure. She never complained, never gave up, kept her faith.... and the unshakable family. Right there is a testimony to God. George took the wheel on this, and never let Tory be alone for a minute of this journey. He juggled his job, raising the kids, and caring for Tory- who has been tube fed throughout the day, and gets up at all hours of the night needing help... their absolute undying love, and his dedication to quality health care for his wife- gave a strong meaning to me about what "for better or for worse" really means.
I don't know anyone else who could demonstrate that level of continuous strength, courage ... and this goes to both of them AND the family... Georges parents- who have been an indescribable support and source of love and strength, Torys sisters, keeping things as fun as possible...Torys mom... What a testament to Gods great plan- for people to be examples of Gods request for us… to love each other, share each other’s burdens, and be a light to others who are engaged now, or engaging in the future- in a comparable situation.
HA. It’s not over till the Fat Lady Sings? UGH. It must be over, soon.... as we sang to Tory last night- Jessie, Gianna and Myself (the fat lady)... Tory. So much love for you. You have left us with an invaluable message. I’m not exactly sure what it is, as the battle was lost… the war has ended… and now, we just wait for you to go Home to God. Tory- I will miss you. Everyone whom this story has touched, will never forget and will be forever changed by your demonstration of dignity and grace during this horrific experience… AND we will be watching for signs from Heaven from Victoria Elizabeth Harvey for the rest of our lives here. Until we meet again…. I love you. <3
Randi
Tory finally was home in her own bed. George was overnight working, and Tory had the entire bed to herself...and was expressing her appreciation for having the whole bed to herself.... after so long in a hospital bed. As you can see, the loving spirit continues to flow. God Bless Us All.
I thought maybe some people may like the opportunity to help this family- learn more about them... so I am inserting their GO FUND ME link.... https://www.gofundme.com/toryharvey