December 31, 2009. Can you believe it’s already been 10 years (technically 9) since we entered the new Millennium? Seems like that just happened a couple of years ago, yet here we are, mere hours away from bidding farewell to one decade and welcoming a new one hoping it will bring along many blessings with it.
2009 will definitely go down in the books as a bitter-sweet year for us. As I reflected on that thought this morning, it occurred to me that 2005 and 2009 were both very similar for us in that aspect. In 2005, we were blessed with the birth of our first son, Jacob. Six months later, Jamie was diagnosed with oral cancer and our life was turned upside down for many months. Similarly, in 2009 we were blessed with our second son, Joshua, and once again had to deal with a cancer diagnosis, this time Leukemia. Kind of makes you wonder whether God has it in for us.
However, as I continued to compare 2005 and 2009, it became clear to me that our experiences in 2005 had in some ways prepared us for this one. For one, I realized that while her current disease may be more complex and difficult medically than the previous one, 2005 made us emotionally stronger and this journey has actually been easier in some respects. It was 2005 that also set the stage for the team of doctors we ended up with when she was diagnosed in June. Had 2005 not happened, we would not have had a high risk pregancy doctor at hand, nor would we have had an oncologist that already knew her. Her OB told us how lucky we were with this since many specialists will not TOUCH a pregnant woman for liability concerns. Heck, the local hospital even wanted to kick us out at one point. The oncologist was the one that was able to convince them to leave her there. What makes this all even more interesting is that she was never really supposed to have met him in 2005. Her oncologist always questioned why they had referred her to him since his main job was to administer chemotherapy, which she didn’t need. After a year following her, he told her she didn’t need him anymore. The dude has a great memory…. when he arrived in her room this past June, his first words were “Well, you need me now!”
It’s my personal belief that had we not gone through that first experience, Joshua, and possibly even Jamie, may not be with us today. As hard as it was at the time, it seems to have happened for a reason. It didn’t make sense then, and it only starting to make sense now. I remember being angry and questioning God and our faith; why was He placing this burden on us? Only now has that answer been revealed: He was preparing us for what was to come. We survived 2005 and as a bonus became a closer, stronger family. Those who know us know just how much love we have for each other and how close we are. I continuously thank God for this gift and pray that we receive similar blessings after our current journey comes to an end.
Thank you for all your generosity and prayers in 2009. Without them, I don’t think we could have made it this far. I wish our current journey would end along with 2009, but as a friend of mine going through a similar situation stated, we’ll probably be dealing with this through at least part of 2010. Please keep us in your prayers! Jamie is doing great right now, no doubt thanks to all the hundreds, if not thousands, of individuals lifting her up. The strength she has shown throughout this entire ordeal has no doubt been provided from above. And for those who ask “How do you do it”? All I can say is “Peace that surpasses all understanding”…. I’ve experienced it. I’ve literally asked myself the same thing: “With all that’s been happening… how am I able to even function?”. Sure, some days are better than others, but as emotionally weak as I am (I cried during WALL-E — here’s my man card), my only answer is that I’ve been given a peace from above as interceded by your prayers.
So to our friends and family,
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your care and prayers. In 2010 place God and family first; don’t sweat the small stuff; and keep the faith!
Have a blessed 2010!
Jamie, Joel, Jacob, & Joshua – The Quevedo Family
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Joel, this entry brought a tear to my eye. You and your family are truly an inspiration to us all. The way you have handled yourselves this past year is remarkable. I hope Jamie continues to improve and your family continues to prosper. Happy New Year.
I love this family picture! It is beautiful!
You have a wonderful testimony, and His word tells us that what we go through should bring glory to God. Your words do that and you will be awesomely blessed. All my prayers and admiration.
Your family is amazing and truth be told I think through this all your wife is as gorgeous as ever even more so now. She has a certain glow about her in this picture. Sometimes I wonder why God allows certain things to happen and I think some of those things I will never know the answer to. I wonder why my son has autism and my sister has 3 healthy kids. I won't know the answer. Sometimes people say it is because God knew you could handle it. Sometimes when it that situation you think well, I don't want to handle it. I want my life to be normal and like everyone elses. In 1986 my mom had cancer and I was only 9 and I thought she was going to die. But she didn't. God allowed her to live and from that point in my life I realized every day is truly a miracle. One thing I am sure of is that when you go through a situation like this we learn how precious life is and not to take even a single moment for granted. I pray for your family daily. I think you are an inspiration to all people. May God bless you and I pray that 2010 will be filled with nothing but good things. In HIS name i pray. AMEN.
Great post, Joel! I admit I cry too…it’s a healthy thing, and a sign of strength, in my humble opinion. God is good!