Monday, May 16, 2011

Standing strong in prayer for my friend Stacey...

I found out late last night, that my dear friend Stacey Peretz, is again fighting her MDS, a pre-leukemia cancer, that she has been going toe to toe with for about 18 months now. It's reared his ugly head again, and this time more aggressively. There has been a website set up by artist John Banovich, and a silent auction to help defray some of the medical costs that she and her family have been going through. Please take a look. Read her story and send her some love. Take a look at the beautiful paintings, sculptures and prints up for sale, or make a donation if you can. Stacey is in the fight of her life and she needs all of our prayers, thoughts and well wishes. http://www.staceyperetz.com/

Stacey is such a lovely and spirited woman. I have known her for about 25 years now, having worked with her together at art publisher, Mill Pond Press, for many years. She has since moved on and is working directly with John now, of course with her usual enthusiasm and vigor. She has always been a do anything, for anybody kind of lady. She has a terrific sense of humor and is a get 'er done kind of gal. Just my kind of person. A woman after my own heart.

Stacey is a devoted Mom to her beautiful teenage daughters Sierra and Cherie. Gosh, I remember well when they were born, so I guess we really do go back a few years.

I just want Stacey to know how much I admire her courage and tenacity in the face of this illness she has been struggling with for so many long months. She has been my friend throughout my ongoing struggle with MS and has always told me how much she admired me. Well, it's your turn now, girl.

I want you to know what an inspiration you are to me and to so many others.We are astounded by your resilient spirit. You are one strong lady, standing firm in the face of this ugly disease and saying NO - you will not beat me, I've got more living to do!

Please know that all of us continue in prayer for you. God is going to get you through this. You have so many friends, artist friends (who are helping through the silent auction) and all of your family pulling for you.

I sent you a verse this morning on the website John set up for you (that is so awesome, by the way), but I wanted to send it again and I want to ask you to believe it with all your heart, because I do:

"Have faith in God", Jesus answered. "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain,' Go throw yourself into the sea' and does not doubt it in his heart, but believes that what he says will happen, it WILL be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, BELIEVE that you have received it and it will be yours."         Mark 11:22-24

I am claiming that verse for you Stacey. I am believing that Almighty God will heal you from this wicked disease in His perfect time. Stay strong. Please, don't give up hope. I know it's hard because it's come back again, but this time, the Lord will take care of this for you. He wants to heal you. You need to believe with all your heart and soul in His faithfulness and His promises. The Lord is still performing miracles everyday, and I'm one of them. You know that - and you've seen my miracle. Now it's time to claim your own miracle so God can be glorified!

I love you pretty lady,

Blessings and abundant love to you and your family,
Nicki

I have two verses for today. The one above from Mark 11:22-24 and then another great verse from  

James 5:13-15

"Is anyone of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. Is anyone of you sick" He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will lift him up..."  


My prayer for today:

Father God:
Thank you for Stacey's life. Thank you for the blessing of knowing her. I come to you today Lord, humbled by your awesome presence. You are Jehovah Raffa, the God who heals. I know Lord that you can take this nasty cancer away from Stacey. I am praying against this cancer in her body, in Jesus name! Remove it from her Lord, so she can go about her life with enjoy her wonderful girls for many years to come. I know you can heal Lord, I have seen it in my own life. I pray now for Stacey, Lord. Give her the strength she needs to continue to fight this cancer. Have her believe in her heart that you will heal her. Your word says that if we just believe, it will happen! We are claiming that promise for Stacey right now Lord, and we know that you are faithful. Surround her and her family with your loving arms of comfort and peace during this difficult time.

In Jesus Name I pray,
Amen



This flower is for you dear friend......hugs and prayers coming your way :)