Two years ago yesterday was one that will be etched in my mind forever. Tra had surgery to remove the lemon sized tumor in his colon, and when the surgeon talked to Johnny and me (and Tra's granddad) afterwards he said, "From what I can tell it appears to be a malignant tumor. . ." I knew right then that my life had changed dramatically. The embrace that my precious father in law and I shared immediately after and the tears we shed together over the love of my life and his firstborn precious son was such a powerful moment. I just wanted to stay in that hallway and not move. I didn't want to have to go out in the waiting room and have to hear all of the, "We're so sorry" "What can we do for you?" But when we walked out after semi-composing ourselves and approximately 30 or so people were there, the sweetest thing happened. Someone said, "Let us pray with you." It brings me to tears as I remember holding hands with my sweet friend Julia and with Johnny as many prayers were lead on behalf of Tra and our family. How incredibly thankful I am for such a strong community of believers who encouraged us and lifted us up during that HARD time in our lives. And not only were those people in the waiting room during the surgery, they were also at Aly and Matt's wedding on this day 2 years ago. Sweet, wonderful friends who rode that roller coaster of emotions with us. It was such a wonderful day---strangely wonderful. Only God could give us all such joy as we all got dressed and took family pictures with beautiful Alyson as she and Matt prepared for the biggest day of their lives so far (besides the day they accepted Christ, of course).
I know it is hard for her because every year on their anniversary, there is not only talk of their special day, but also the "this time 2 years ago, Tra was in surgery, etc, etc." My prayer for Aly and Matt and for our whole family is that although we will always have the memories of Tra's surgery, as the years go on that we will just be thankful that the Lord carried us through it and that we will be able to truly celebrate this precious, wondeful union between Alyson and Matt.
Happy Anniversary, sweet sister and brother in law!! I love thinking about your beautiful wedding and the greatest reception I have ever attended! Isn't God the greatest---to not only give you each other but less than 2 years later your precious, beautiful Adalyn Kate! I love you 3!
"Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak of them, they would be too many to declare." Psalm 40:5
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Happy Anniversary!
Posted by Shelly at 7:21 AM
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7 comments:
I remember that day so well- its hard to believe its been two years. I remember how humbling it was to realize one of my dear friends was not as invincible as we all seemed to be and how helpless we all felt. The Lord was so good to heal him completely! What a blessing your sweet family is to us. We love you all & praise God with you today for the deliverance He brought you!
The tears come as I remember your phone call and sitting up at the hospital so the guys could be with Tra while you were at Aly's wedding! Aly's was the only Willbanks wedding I've missed so far and only because we were with Tra! You looked so beautiful in your bridesmaid's dress as you made the decision to stand beside Alyson that night with Hayley about to pop out of you and let others minister to your husband for a while. I remember at the time thinking that it was such a good and precious choice. You're a wonderful woman, Shelma, and a blessing to your family and friends. We love you!
What I remember most about that time was the strength and grace God poured through you and all of the Willbanks familiy as you selflessly handled the joy of one event while dealing with the sadness and fear of another. The emotions of that weekend were overwhelming for everyone. . . but no one more than you, Shelma, with Hayley only weeks from being born. I cry now just remembering, but God is so faithful! I love that he can bring such joy after such pain! Happy Anniversary to Aly and Matt (we share the same anniversary!) and praise God for the healing he brought Tra!
I just can't believe that was two years ago! It seems like a lifetime! I remember being in Kauai and knowing something wasn't right with Tra. I remember being at dinner at The Beach House and Tra talking about his stomach and Cody polishing off most of Tra's meal because he couldn't eat it. I remember where I was the night you called me to tell me about the tumor. I felt so bad for Tra that for a few years he had been in pain but didn't know what it was from. Shelly I was always so impressed with the strength you had. Which you told me two years ago "it's all God" You are such a strong woman and you have great faith. I love your sweet Treacher family more than you will ever know! :) Oh! I do remember you looking so beautiful 9 months pregnant, running through the waiting room of the hospital, at 9:00p.m. in your bridesmaid gown with a smile on your face to see your man.(How's that for a run-on). I am SO HAPPY that your family is healthy and Tra is healed! I love you!
You 4 were incredible during that time. I thank God for each of you and for the precious blessing you continue to be in my life. I never imagined I would have such dear, close, fun, wonderful friends! I love you girls!!
Dear sweet Shelma,
You are an amazing woman and a godly example to everybody you meet. Thank you for your faith and for sharing that faith with others by the life you lead. You are very special to me. Thanks for being a blessing. Miss you and love you! Kara
I'm covering the receptionist desk right now, and people keep catching me making the "look at the lights to keep from crying" face. To think that I can feel such strong waves of emotion just by knowing the strength and faith you and your family have shelma, how much greater will that emotion be when we stand in front of our Savior? You are such a hero of mine. You always have been, but especially through surviving this trial in your life, you taught everyone around you how to be strong and let go and allow God to show you through the valley. I miss you and love you tons! And yes, happy anniversary to Aly and Matt!
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