It’s a lot of fun to introduce my friend Dena Talmage today. Dena and I met while we were teacher’s aides in an autistic classroom in Grandville, Michigan, (the class which inspired me to write Lake Surrender).
She was a lot of fun to work with and has quite the mischievous streak. When I turned fifty, I was feeling old and didn’t want anyone to know I had a birthday. But Dena snuck down to the school’s office to make sure my BIG birthday was announced over the school’s loudspeaker to the entire school!
In the last few years, the Talmages have gone through a lot. The two of them have been partners in fighting his cancer. It’s an inspiring story that I wanted her to share. Dena is a talented writer who has kept a journal throughout their struggle and if you are interested, she writes in detail about it on her blog.
We wake up with it every day─ this cancer journey─and go to bed with it.
This is our life. Seven years ago we were told by the oncologist that it was advanced aggressive prostate cancer. The only thing to do was to “watch and wait” for it to get worse, then maybe they can help relieve the symptoms. Worse?
But God!
So we went home…and we cried and prayed and prayed and prayed…and then got to work! Doors closed. Then doors opened. We flew to Reno to consult with an Integrative Oncologist. Three weeks of treatment and nutritional education put us a road to healing. It’s been hard at times, real hard. We continue to research and try new things, but stick with the original Alkaline diet. Clean and green is how we strive to eat. We never give up trying to beat this thing!
The sun is shining through the windows of the exam room with a promise of spring. The room is light, but sterile. Posters are on the wall with all things urological. Exam room utensils and supplies are on the counter with the sink. Seven years ago this room looked the same. Memories came flooding back. I thank God for this room…that we are here now. I thank God that Dave is here…now. I take in a deep breath and reach for Dave’s hand.
Sitting in the doctor’s office, we talk quietly about the questions needed to be asked and what the doctor might need to know. Bloodwork and scans were done a couple days before. Dave feels good, real good in fact. His urological issues seem to be resolved after the surgery. He’s sleeping well, too. We chat a little back and forth while holding hands. Our moods are light, anticipating a good report.
The doctor knocks and enters the room with a big smile, extending his hand in a very warm greeting. He’s one of the best urologists in the area and we are so fortunate, no, blessed to have him on our team. His smile is infectious as he asks Dave how he’s feeling. He listens intently as Dave answers his questions and tells him how he’s doing since surgery. Remarkable, actually.
He tells us the stubborn cancer marker is down 15 points, but there are a couple of suspicious lymph nodes near the original cancer area. He looks at me, then to Dave. Normally he would recommend treatment, but given Dave’s remarkable story he tells us to keep doing what we’re doing. My husband beat the odds with Integrative and holistic therapies that God kept placing before us. Who would’ve thought with the original diagnosis of Stage 4, we’d be sitting here today talking lightheartedly?
Then our doctor grins big and shakes his head.
“You have a remarkable story!”
But God!
“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” ~Hebrews 4:16.
Enjoying life as God has blessed me with a wonderful husband and family. I am a redeemed, Beloved Daughter of God! I enjoy writing, gardening, both flower and vegetable gardens and my grandchildren; I enjoy learning more and more about living a long life as a healthy, happy woman.
One of my favorite verses: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”. ~ 1 Thes. 5:16-18.
Dena’s contact information:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/denatalmage
Erica Key says
Wow! What an incredible story. Keep sharing Dena, that it is so inspiring. Miss you all!
Erica Key
hindsfeetforthejourney says
Thank you Erica. That is so kind of you to say. We miss you all too! Hi to everyone in the family.
Deborah Rutan says
Dena is a truth-seeking, faith-filled warrior who supports Dave 100% in their battle against cancer! She is relentless in her pursuit of knowledge for natural remedies, healthy foods and alternative treatments…and it is working! I’ve known Dena for 32 years. She has overcome and grown as a person through many of life’s trials. She continues to be an inspiration to me and to all whose life she touches!