Restored

Back in 1999, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. At that time I underwent a lumpectomy with radiation followed by a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction. After that surgery, I suffered a postoperative infection due to radiated, thin skin with poor healing capability. That infection parked me in the hospital for five days and cost me another surgery. At that time, I was about 31 years old, and I was in my third year of medical school. Spending those days in the hospital taking pain medication and antibiotics caused me to lose track of my days, and I entered a depression. Not only was I sick, but I also had a deformed chest wall with an active infection. During that time, I cried out to God for help and restoration. I spent many days shedding tears, not knowing if I would ever feel “normal” again. Slowly but surely, God wrapped His loving arms around me and healed me.

Last year, I had a required maintenance reconstructive surgery. Both my surgeon and I were very much aware of my increased risk for infection. However, the surgery went well, and I healed well. Two weeks ago, I had to undergo another reconstructive surgery. Just like the previous time, I worried about a postoperative infection. Postoperative day number five, my incision started to become red and appeared inflamed. My mind started going down that road to infection, and I became anxious. I called my family and friends and asked them to please pray for me. I asked them to pray for my healing and restoration to health.

When I saw my doctor the next day, he looked at my incision and immediately knew that I didn’t have an infection. He told me I had an allergic reaction. You can imagine my relief as I almost cried tears of joy. I had already imagined a hospital stay, intravenous antibiotics, and possibly another surgery resulting in a deformed chest wall. I left his office that day with a huge weight lifted, and I thanked God for His goodness.

Perhaps you are experiencing a time of depression or anxiety due to poor health, a desperate situation, or grief. I encourage you to employ prayer warriors to pray for you. Our God is one of restoration, and He hears your cries for help. He will surround you with His love by bringing people to your aid, and He will bring comfort from unexpected places and people. He cares for you.

“The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures: He leads me besides the still waters. He restores my soul…” Psalms 23:1-3a.

“But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds….” Jeremiah 30:17a