A Very Good 'Good Friday'

Last year on Good Friday, Elena was in the hospital. It was day 24 of what would turn out to be a 29 day stay in the hospital. Elena had just begun her treatment for her relapse of leukemia. 

Last year, we couldn't imagine what our next hour would hold, let alone a year from then.

It has been a year.
Today is Good Friday.

At Elena's clinic visit we were given very good news.  Elena looks great. She is showing no signs of GVHD and her counts are holding steady!  And the good news didn't end there.  We also found out that we can start relaxing Elena's restrictions with regards to social interacting and diet.  While we know that it will take some time to get back to "normal", Elena is ecstatic with the idea of "finally being free".  We certainly share in her enthusiasm and were so excited to see and hear the sheer joy in her voice when she said earlier today that "this was the best day ever".

This was the best news we could expect to hear today and we give all of the glory to God! He has brought us through a terrible storm. He has brought us to today. He has used you to remind us that we would make it, no matter what!

A year ago, on a very dark day, our friend Stacee reminded us that even on the darkest of days, we can experience the hope and joy His promises bring. Because Jesus died and rose again, we know this life is not all there is. We have the hope of heaven! 

So many years ago, this day was the darkest of days, Jesus' crucifixion.
But, in the bible, Jesus says  "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?" John 11:25-26

We are grateful for this reassurance.
We are grateful for God's sacrifice for us.
We are grateful for His promises, grace, and steadfast love.
We are grateful to each of you for your prayers and for being the hands and feet of Christ to us.

We are so very grateful for this good day!!

In Him,
The Tates

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
John 14:27

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