On February 7th, Racheal Humphrey heard the words that everyone dreads. She was told that she has cancer – liver cancer. Her mother, Lynda, remarked, “You don’t realize how fast you live each day until you hear words like this spoken.” I think we can all agree that a diagnosis like this gets your attention and helps you put your priorities in order. Most people know someone who has had cancer, but it’s not a diagnosis you expect for a beautiful, vivacious twenty-one year old.
When we hear that someone has cancer, the phrases “I’ll pray for you” or “You are in my prayers” are common. The Humphreys have heard these words often over the last couple of months. They are blessed to be surrounded and supported with love, concern and prayers from their family, church, and the community where they have lived their entire lives. Their faith in the Lord and the support of the wonderful people in their lives has provided them with encouragement during this difficult time. Their faith is strong and they sincerely believe that Racheal will be cured.
A friend of Racheal’s, Kasey Allen, decided to form a Relay for Life team to help raise funds for the American Cancer Society. Racheal named the team Racheal’s Believers – in honor of everyone who believes in God and prays for a miracle for her. Through e-mail and word-of-mouth, 64 members have been recruited with more being added every day. Racheal’s Believers hope to raise at least $5000 for cancer research to battle this horrific disease. Bracelets and tee shirts emblazoned with Racheal’s Believers can be purchased at Fanci Friends across from Jacksonville High School.
A fund has been started to help defray the cost of Racheal’s treatment. Donations to Racheal’s Raiders can be mailed to Celeste Hobgood-Prusaitis at 231 River Reach Drive, Swansboro, NC 28584. The Humphreys would like to thank the community for the love, support and prayers that have been sent their way. As Lynda said, “We are on a journey, and we will get through this with the help of our Lord and the support of our friends and family.”
Isaiah 53:5
But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,
and by his wounds we are healed.
Now you can check out Racheal’s blog at http://rachealsbelievers.blogspot.com
