Gene Marker Test

So today I did the gene marker tests at Sonora Lab. They spin the blood on ice and send it to

California....and in about 10 days they will have the results back. Dr. Burzynski will determine if

there are cancer cells left in the body and if so, if they are over expressing proteins. This week is

also my ct/pet scan and then I'm off to the clinic in Houston Texas for an appointment on June

3rd. In the mean time, we are organizing our home and enjoying our lively little chihuahua

named Cookie.

I was actually sick for the last 3 weeks with a sore throat and am finally feeling better.

Yeah!!

Lessons I've learned

This past year with cancer has taught me a lot and people have asked

what I have learned.

So, I will share some of the most important things.

First, God lives and loves each of His children regardless our faith, color, or

religion.

I have met or talked with so many cancer patients that come from different faiths,

countries, etc. and they have expressed that they were guided to the Burzynski

Clinic from God. (The clinic where I go for my cancer treatment)

God cares for all of His children. He doesn't just care for those that are members

of our faith. He hears and answers all of their prayers if they ask in faith, believing

that they will receive direction.

Secondly, Faith in God is a real power. Just as magnetism is not seen but you can

feel the effects of it....so faith is not seen but the effects can be felt. Seeing with the

natural eye and hearing with our ears is not a sure way of knowing something. Our

physical bodies are imperfect and can deceive us at times. God uses the Holy Ghost

to speak to our spirits so that we can have a more sure knowledge of truth.

Learning to put our trust in God is what this earth life is all about and when we do

put our trust in God then we are strengthened beyond any earthly ability we may

have. I was told by the best oncologists that there was nothing I could do for this

particular kind of cancer. I had an average of 3 years left to live if I did the

strongest chemo in the hospital and bone marrow transplant twice. No one has

had success with living very long with mantle cell non-hodgkins lymphoma cancer.

I decided to put my trust in God and not in science. God directed me another way

that was not traditional medicine. My oncologist has decided to work hand in hand

with Dr. Burzynski because he knew that he could offer me no hope. I am in

remission and will find out in a few weeks if it is complete remission yet. I have

never doubted that I would get all the way better because God witnessed to my

spirit that I would be healed.

I testify that God lives, He loves all of His children no matter what color and what

circumstance they may be in. I have been blessed with tremendous peace and

strength beyond my own through this cancer experience. I know that Jesus Christ

atoned for our sins and that He is the way back to our Heavenly Father. I also

know by the spirit that Pres. Monson is God's mouthpiece and speaks His words to

us today. Life is wonderful. The Gospel is true. The scriptures bring the Spirit and

have sustained me and have fed my spirit through this whole ordeal. I love to feast

upon them daily. Just as our bodies need nourishment, so do our spirits. I am so

grateful to be a member of God's true church and want everyone to have the

blessings that I enjoy because of it.

Thank you for your prayers and example and to me.

Dr. Burzynski

Take a look at these news clips about Dr. Burzynski. He is becoming more well known
and I am so grateful for all he has done for so many patients...including me.

:) Margaret

http://www.khou.com/great-day/gdh_051210_seg1-93591354.html

http://www.khou.com/great-day/gdh_051210_seg2-93591594.html

Mother's Day

I'm excited to hear from our missionary son, Thomas, today. He will be calling from Washington

this afternoon.

It will be great to hear his voice and to feel of his spirit. Every year, I ask my kids and their

spouses to stand up and sing my favorite hymn to me and I'm looking forward to hearing them

sing it today. It's "I Know That My Redeemer Lives." They are all coming over for dinner today

(all that are in state) My children bring great joy to me as they

follow the Savior and trust in his plan and it brings such peace to my heart and soul. Just like

any other mother, my greatest wish and desire is to know that my family is happy:) and true

happiness comes by following the Gospel Plan of Happiness.

I wish all mothers could feel the peace and joy that I feel today. I love my dear mother and

mother in law who are in heaven and was thinking about what gift to give them even though they

aren't on this earth any longer. Larry and I decided that we would show increased love to one

another this year and serve each other more...that is the gift that our mothers would want.

Happy Mother's Day! (My husband got me a darling little puppy! She's so cute!)

Love Life

So grateful for life! I remember embroidering a quote for my mother that said "Life is fragile,

handle with prayer". So true!
This has been a busy week with grand kids and the other day I was on the ground with 2 of them and a baby playing with the "marble magic." The thought went through my head how blessed I was, as I kept pulling baby Miriam away from the marbles, to get to enjoy my grand kids and see them grow up.
It's also nice to have more years on earth with Larry and to get to see my kids and their spouse raise families of their own. I know that prayer has truly changed the course of my life.

This weekend Larry and I are getting to see Aaron do the Iron Man! I've proud of him and grateful to get to go to St. George for this event! I'm also so excited for Maria and Bryan as they are expecting another baby!
...and to think that a year ago I was very very sick with this cancer. I'm so f0rtunate to be alive and well and to have this time with my family and friends on earth. I just feel like shouting for joy!!

Family Reunion

Recently our family had a wonderful reunion. We met at my cousin's house where the kids rode

horses, there was a hay ride, food, music, visiting, and good times together.

We planned for the next one to be in 2 years. I get to be in charge of it along with my cousin and her husband from Idaho. We are excited to work together.
I have the best family and they are very supportive and bring lots of sunshine and smiles to my life!
All of my kids and their families were able to come except for Thomas who is in Washington on his mission. Oh...I am super excited for Mother's Day because I get to talk with him on the phone.
A couple of days ago, some people from his mission were down and we had them over for dinner along with Thomas' companions family. It was so fun to get acquainted. Because of the busy life...I have decided that this week I will schedule in a time to relax each day!
It's really nice to feeling so well.

Wish I had money to help people

One of my greatest desires is to help people. People contact me from many different states to

inquire about the Burzynski Clinic. I tell them my miracle story and how I was directed to go to

Dr. Burzynski and how I am in remission.....perhaps complete remission now....I don't know

yet. (But, I know that I will be!) I have been in contact with a young man from Washington state

the last few weeks...he has Lymphoma and is desiring to go to the clinic. His name is Mark. I

wish I could help him financially. But the best I could give him was my testimony of how God

blesses his children and provides a way for them to accomplish what they ask for in faith that is

right. I shared with him the story in the Bible of the 7 loaves and fishes and how that after Jesus

gave thanks for it...the food multiplied and it fed thousands. Giving thanks for what we have has

blessed me so much. I remember one month, my grand children had colored pictures for me for

money and donated it to my cause, other grand children gave pennies, a jar full of money was

delivered to our door....it wasn't near enough...but by giving thanks....somehow it ended up

being enough. Others came by and left money at my door and I was able to pay for the pills. It is

really amazing how it works. One of my favorite scriptures is "And he who receiveth all things

with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him,

even an hundred fold, yea, more." D &C 78:19

God truly loves his children and is the Great Provider.

I Know He Lives!

This year has been incredible. It was exactly one year...tomorrow...that I was diagnosed with

mantle cell non-hodgkins lymphoma. It's been a journey and I have not been alone. God has

carried me and has been with me every step of the way. I have an incredible family and loyal

friends which have been a great support to me. Thank you to all that have contributed money,

offered prayers, and given service. I love each of you. God has provided for my needs and has

inspired great doctors to know what medicines my body needs. I feel great and am well on my

way to complete remission.

This year, my grand daughter, Rebecca and I are in the Mesa Arizona Easter Pageant. It's called

"Jesus The Christ". (www.easterpageant.org)

We are in 4 scenes together. Buyers at the temple-Jesus teaching the multitude and healing

the people--The Triumphal entry--and the finale.

One of my favorite parts is when Jesus heals the sick people. I reach out to Him as if I want

to touch Him and be healed. But...in my heart, I already know that He has touched me and has

healed me. I think in my mind instead...that I just want to thank Him for blessing me.

It's a miracle!

Then towards the end of the pageant when we all sing "I Know He Lives"....

I sing with all my heart...because I know that Christ lives today. I like to share that message.

He continues to speak to His prophets and to heal and bless us.

I invite all that are able to attend the pageant to come and bring your families and friends.

It's a wonderful way to celebrate the life and teachings of Christ! I hope it doesn't rain

because even if it does the show goes on!

I love people

I was just thinking about how much I love people. I love my husband and it was so fun to go

with him to visit our daughter Christina and her husband and baby up in Hurricane Utah this

last weekend. It's hard to have had them move out of state....but it was fun to visit them.

I love my brother Richard. He brings a special warm spirit wherever he is. His love for me and

others truly shows. He's been working on our computer and I love to be around him.

I love to talk to Maria during the day...just chatting about whatever. It was great to go to my

nephew's wedding yesterday and hear Pres. Huber give such wise counsel in the temple. I

enjoyed visiting and meeting new people at the reception. Then a great friend, Arline Parker

called today and scolded me gently for not writing on my blog. I told her that I had totally

forgotten....I guess I have been feeling too good!!! I love her. Then, I discovered a darling note

written by an old friend of mine that said she was thinking of me for no reason. Within the note

was $100 for my pills. God is continuing to pour out the blessings through friends. And.....to

top it off....2 seconds ago...my husband called and said he invited Bryan and Maria and Tate over

for dinner. It's almost 6:00 now....so I better make something besides the beans that I have

cooking in a pot. I love my husband and family and friends. Life is great!

Sunshine

A lady recently wrote about me on her blog and said that I was probably lying about my health

because it couldn't be as good as it sounds. She wondered what reason I had to hope. I wrote

back to her and then I got a phone call from her. We had a very nice conversation and I basically

explained my feelings to her. She has cancer as well and other problems. I have been thinking a

lot about happiness and hope and how that it is a choice. We all have our personal struggles and

I work at being happy just like the rest of the world.


Today, I was singing a hymn about sunshine and it made me realize how important it is to have

it in our hearts. Here are the lyrics.

You can make the pathway bright, Fill the soul with heaven's light, If there's sunshine in your heart;
Turning darkness into day, As the shadows fly away, If there's sunshine in your heart today.
If there's sunshine in your heart, You can send a shining ray That will turn the night to day;
And your cares will all depart, If there's sunshine in your heart today.
You can speak the gentle word To the heart with anger stirred, If there's sunshine in your heart;
Tho it seems a little thing, It will heaven's blessings bring, If there's sunshine in your heart today.
If there's sunshine in your heart, You can send a shining ray That will turn the night today;
And your cares will all depart, If there's sunshine in your heart today.
You can do a kindly deed To your neighbor in his need, If there's sunshine in your heart;
And his burden you will share As you lift his load of care, If there's sunshine in your heart today.
If there's sunshine in your heart, You can send a shining ray That will turn the night today;
And your cares will all depart, If there's sunshine in your heart today.
You can live a happy life In this world of toil and strife, If there's sunshine in your heart;
And your soul will glow with love From the perfect Light above, If there's sunshine in your heart today.
If there's sunshine in your heart, You can send a shining ray That will turn the night today;
And your cares will all depart, If there's sunshine in your heart today.

So.....what is the sunshine that we put into our hearts and how do we get it? It is the Son of god.

I like the words of Peter in 1 Peter 3:8-12.

Basically, he explains how we should be acting if we truly want that sunshine!

(We would strive to be of one mind, have compassion, love others, be courteous, have no guile,

seek to have peace, not return evil for evil, etc.)

Then Peter said that the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous and his ears are open unto

their prayers. I really like those verses.


I am trying to make a conscious effort each day to have sunshine in my heart and it isn't always

easy. I mess up a lot...and then try again. I am trying to put God at the center of my

life. The scriptures are a great strength and comfort to me as is prayer and service. I love the

hymns and beautiful music. They also give me strength. I try to remember to serve others.

My motto is "Do my best with God's help." So, I am trying to go forward with a smile:) and trust

in the Lord. He is certainly someone that I can trust...and in the process....I find sunshine in my

heart and it brings me happiness!

Coloring For a Cure: Written by Maria (Margaret's daughter)

My mother, Margaret Manning, was diagnosed with MANTLE CELL LYMPHOMA CANCER on her birthday last year (March 20, 2009). She immediately began treatments at the Burzynski Clinic in Houston, Texas. Family, friends, and loved ones donated generously as insurance didn't pay for all of her medications. Currently (February 2010) Margaret is 90-95% well! She is in partial remission but has been advised by Dr. Burzynski to continue her treatment plan until the cancer is completely gone.

In an effort to help raise money for the last few months worth of medication, Margaret's grandson, named Tate, came up with his own plan of how he could help his Grandma. He said, "I have it ALL figured out... I'm going to color pictures from my coloring book and sell them for money!" Later that night, Tate sold his first picture for five dollars... He was ecstatic and determined to continue making a difference. During the last two months, Tate has raised over $100 from selling pictures that he has colored! Tate's idea has gained momentum and now 7 precious children have volunteered to join him in his efforts.

Would you like to BUY a colored picture from Tate, Rebecca, Anson, Ryan, Emma, Lily, Shyre, or Brityn?!? (See pictures below) Just donate ANY amount of money (at least enough to cover the stamp) and one of the children below will mail a picture back to you!

(Please make sure that your Paypal address is correct. If you have a preference of who you'd like to color your picture, please specify in the "notes section" of Paypal, otherwise we'll just rotate between the children).

Please email Maria
onesmartchicken at gmail dot com
if your child would like to participate in "Coloring For a Cure"

Feelings

Six days ago, my mother in law had a severe stroke and is in a hospice center. It's very difficult

to have her in this condition and it breaks our families hearts. I know that it won't be long and

she will be moving on to the next stage in life....which is to return to our Heavenly home.

Because I know for myself that Heavenly Father lives and that Jesus Christ conquered sin and

death, it makes it easier to deal with death when it comes. I found a very special poem that

touched my heart and I would like to dedicate it to my mother in law at this time.


You are the other Mom
I got the day I wed your son.
And I just want to thank you Mother
For the lovely things you've done.

You are a lovely Mother,
And I am a lucky wife!
I wonder if you know how much
you've added to my life.

You used to pat His little head,
And now I hold his hand.
You raised in love a "Little Boy."
And gave me then a "Man."

(I love you Mother!)

Then, at the same time, I've been thinking about Thomas, who is serving a full time mission for

the Lord in Washington State. In just two days, it will be a year since he has been out. One

more year left and we will have him home! Yea! Yet, at the same time, we are receiving so

many blessings from his service that I want to have him continue. But most

importantly, he is teaching the gospel to my brothers and sisters in Washington and that makes

me happy. I feel very blessed to have the true gospel of Jesus Christ in my life and to know of

God's plan for me. So, we are planning to send him a special love package for Valentines Day

and for his 1 year mark as well. The main thing he wants is pictures. It's hard for Thomas at

this time to be away from family especially because he loves his grandmother so much. But, he

has a great understanding of God's plan and he will be fine.

I feel so blessed to have a wonderful husband who loves his parents so much. Larry and I have

had some real choice experiences singing hymns to his mother and just being there with her.

Also, Larry has also enjoyed spending time with his Dad and going out to dinner together.

These are hard times and but we will get through them.

Feeling carried

Sometimes I feel that the Lord is carrying me. Actually....all the time. He has blessed us in so

many ways that I just don't have enough fingers and toes to count the blessings on. For

example, he helped us modify our house loan, a bill for $1,000 was just dropped and the

company wrote it off, our dental credit card percentage was dropped 20%...amazing. Our

daughter, Maria, posts our business on Craig's list and we are starting to get a lot more work

because of it! Joseph, our son in law is working for us and doing a great job with bids and we

are starting to see the fruit of his labor. Richard, my brother, is in the middle of creating a new

website for our business and is quite the master mind when it comes to computers. I could just

go on and on and on. I hope that everyone can experience the love and support in their lives

just as I feel love and support from my dear husband, family, friends, and especially the Lord.

God is my best friend and I love Him with all of my heart.

He has made my burdens light and continues to warm my heart and fill my

life with joy!

I'm happy and find so much joy in teaching my grandchildren piano and singing

lessons. They are just so cute and delightful to be around. I think they actually help me to heal

in many ways. Just being around them makes my heart smile!

On a lighter note, last night I dyed my hair a dark brown.

It's been a year since I put any color on it and my doctor said I shouldn't use any chemicals on

my hair but that I could use henna from the health food store. I was skeptical at first

because my sister said that it made her hair turn red. So, I heard that if you add coffee to the

dry henna in the preparation stage instead of water that it helps to eliminate the redness. So,

Larry and I went to MacDonald's and bought coffee. It was so embarrassing. I made sure that

the lady at the window knew what it was for. I stayed up late last night following the

directions exactly. It has to be on the hair for 3 hours. So by 1:30 or 2 pm I had finished. It

was a job...but it turned out! Yea! Hope it lasts a while. I was getting tired of the mousy

grayish brown color. It makes me feel even better to have my hair darker again. Also,

I got a pair of glasses so now I can see better. I'm just feeling like a new person!

Also, I had an appointment with my oncologist, Dr.Kellogg, a couple of days ago and he said

that he also feels that I am in partial remission just as the other doctors had stated.

He said to keep doing what Dr. Burzynski prescribes....because it is working.

He is amazed at the progress and probably quite surprised as well!

Raining blessings from heaven

This week it has rained almost every day....almost continually at times. Just like the rain has

fallen down, money has also been pouring down to help me with my medicine. Last Sunday, a

member of our bishopric came to our home. He gave us an envelope with a note inside that

said, "please give this to Margaret Manning." Inside was $1000 to use towards my

pills. Then each day, others have contributed. A family member brought over $500 this week.

It just made me cry because I knew they needed it. My grandson several times gave me money

that he had earned. Once it was about $4, another time a penny, another time $5.04. A dear

friend sent a lovely note and donated $10. She is so sweet and such an example to me. A grand

daughter brought over money and quietly put it into my pill bank. Grandpa caught her. I am

soooo blessed and Heavenly Father surely hears and is answering our prayers in my behalf. My

prayer is that every one that helps me in any way will be blessed a hundred fold.

Home from Burzynski Clinic

Yesterday we returned home from the Burzynski Clinic in Houston Texas. We had a good trip

and found great results with my health. My daughter Maria and her 5 year old son, Tate, and I

flew out together and stayed at the CandleWood Hotel. Tate was so fun to have along and was

very well behaved. Because of his eagerness to learn and exciting personality, he delighted

everyone we met and added much to our trip. Maria was very helpful as usual and drove the

freeways like a pro. She helped in many ways and was great company.

We met with my 3 doctors in a large consultation room on the 2nd floor. Dr. Burzynski, Dr.

Kubove, and Dr. Weaver were all there together to discuss my health. Basically, my gene

marker test is normal and my Pet/Ct scan results were very good. The skull base and neck is

normal. The chest is continuing to improve. I have one node that is on the right chest area that

is slightly larger than normal but smaller that the last pet scan findings. The abdomen is clear,

the pelvis is as well. Dr. Burzynski said that I am in partial remission. I am 95% better but

must stay on the medications until at least my next 3 month visit. They want to make sure that

the cancer completely leaves and doesn't come back.

Next, we met with the radiologist and he compared several of my ct/pet scans.

It's amazing to see the difference. My body was covered with enlarged active

cancerous glands back in March of 2009, and now 10 months later, I am almost completely

well. What a miracle. Dr. Kline, the radiologist said that about 45%-50% of the patients get all

the way better. I am part of that percentage. Also, my gene marker test came back normal.

Yeah! So, I am doing really good. The Burzynski Clinic is one of my favorite places to be. It is

booming with activity, as they are very busy. People fly in from all over the world and are

getting great results. Most of these people are those that have not been given any hope from

traditional medicine and are given up to die. The feeling in the clinic is one of great hope and

love and the staff is happy, upbeat and very energetic. They are some of the most

knowledgeable doctors and nurses that I have met. So, I enjoyed my visit very much and am

very happy with my progress. I will be staying on the same medicine until told otherwise,

and will continue to follow what the doctor tells me to do. Life is wonderful. God is working a

miracle and I have a big smile on my face!

Recent health update

I am feeling pretty good and am well over the laryngitis and "flu or near walking pneumonia."

I'm so glad! Last week was my 4th Ct/Pet Scan and next week is the trip to Houston, Texas to

see Dr. Burzynski. I'm really looking forward to finding out how my gene marker test was as

well as the Ct/Pet Scan. Just wondering if the medicine will change or what he will say. I'm so

glad that my daughter, Maria is going to go with me as well as her son Tate. He was been

saving money for me all along and it will be a blessing to have him with us. For some reason,

he makes me feel better just to be around him. Maria is wonderful and will be a great help as

usual. Today, I saw my endocrinologist who recently ran some more thyroid tests. I was

officially diagnosed with hypothyroidism (Low thyroid) and will be starting on the medicine in

the morning. So, I should be feeling better in many ways. Hypothyroidism runs in the family,

as I have 2 sisters with it and many other family members as well. I have had many of the

symptoms for some time now but have put it on the back burner since cancer took preference.

I will write more next week and give a thorough update.

End of year

This year has been quite the adventure! I've learned about faith and miracles.

God is certainly mindful of me and of each of His children and He surely keeps

His promises. So, at the beginning of 2009 I wrote down some goals for myself. Some of these

goals were to get new carpeting, to lose weight, and to read a book monthly. But, then in

March, my life took a different course and I had to reevaluate my New Year's Goals.

I no longer cared about carpeting, losing weight or reading a book monthly.

My goal was to get over cancer and to do my part in this miracle that was unfolding.

Some of the things that I have learned are:

That the Lord has a plan for each of us and knows us personally
That He cares about our desires and wants us to SEEK for our righteous desires
That we need the prayers of others and also their faith and help
Friends and family are such a great support
The scriptures are a great source of strength and comfort
The importance of often and fervent prayer
People are so generous with their money
The Lord sure does love His children!
God truly loves to heal and perform miracles!

So, my cancer adventure has been hard, tiring, adventurous, and a great learning experience.

I know that it is not only blessing my life but it is also blessing the lives of many people,

including my husband, my children,their spouses and my grandchildren.

It won't be long and this cancer adventure will soon be coming to a close.

My health is returning and life goes on...

Blessings never cease and 2010 is going to be a great year for the Manning Family!

Feelings of Christmas

I have mixed emotions this holiday season. Christmas was absolutely wonderful! It was great

to have each of our children and their spouses and our grandchildren over and it felt so warm

and wonderful. All except Thomas, who is serving in Washington as a missionary But, he called

and just warmed our hearts even more! I was totally spoiled by everyone and it felt so good.

I'm used to it. ...it's true. Being sick has it's ups and down. One of the downs is that the food

that I serve usually isn't very good. I try to simplify and it's just not the same. Even with lots of

help in the kitchen somehow the homemade cooking is still missing. We had the huge tortillas

and beans and salsa and all the fixings. Many people helped. But, because the tortillas were a

couple of days old... for some reason we couldn't get them soft and they just weren't the best.

Maria worked hard in the kitchen and insisted on me opening her gift early Christmas morning

so as to use it in serving the meal. She said that I would love it. I did! It was a lazy susan with

ceramic gold containers with a center bowl. It was perfect to serve the food on Christmas day

and the food looked beautiful in it! We received special gifts from each of our children as well.

Each of the married children, which is all of them but Thomas, gave a gift to each couple.

James and Julie had brought a homemade bean salsa which was delicious. It was put into 4

different containers and Julie put it into the kitchen. For some reason, I thought it was for the

meal and so I dumped a couple of them into a container into the lazy susan for everyone to

enjoy. James and Julie have only been married since August and it was her first Christmas with

us. She didn't say anything at first....but later James told me that the bean salsa's were

intended to go to the other 4 couples for their gifts. I felt really bad. There were only two left,

so just two of the couples got to have their gifts. Oh well. I wish I could be perfect and not

make mistakes but somehow I just keep making them. James and Julie were nice about it and

overlooked it.

Then Christmas night, Larry got up with cramps in his legs and when he almost fell I braced

him with my body and helped him back onto the bed. In doing so I hurt my left knee. So, I

have a brace on it and it is injured. So, Larry is at church right now, and I am home alone again

with the same old conjestion and the knee problem. But, wonderful news is that my voice came

back and I was able to talk with Thomas on Christmas Day. That was the best Christmas gift

ever!

Oh, and I mustn't forget the very special Christmas Eve that Larry and I experienced. At first, it

wasn't so wonderful....as we were struggling to finish our homemade gifts for our children. We

were saying to ourselves, "how did we ever do it in the past....why are we so slow this

year....and how are we ever going to get all the pages stuffed into these plastic sheets to put into

the books...." When all of a sudden we heard someone knock on the door or ring the doorbell.

Larry went to the door and there was a heavy basket with a pink and white checkered cloth

over it. He brought it in and we looked inside. There was fresh citrus fruit and a big jar filled

with quarters and other coins in it which was labeled "Christmas Jar". Then we opened a gift

that was in the basket and it was a book entitled "Christmas Jars". We had never heard of this

book and thought this was pretty special for someone to think of us. We sat on the couch

together and our hearts melted. Here we were having a hard time and someone was out doing

something so wonderful for us. We wanted to read it Christmas night but were too busy...so we

decided to read it together after Christmas. (We are now about 3/4 through it and are enjoying

it so much together...it's our night time story!) It wasn't but 10 minutes later when there was

another knock at the door. I went to the door and didn't see anyone. Then I looked down and

saw a large container of cashews and 2 bank envelopes stuffed with money. I brought them in

and we sat on the couch together to count the money. We started crying together as we

counted out the 100-crisp dollar bills that someone had so carefully put into the envelopes for

us. People are so kind and thoughtful. It surely made our Christmas so special. Larry and I

worked faster and had renewed energy. By about 2 am we had finished our gifts and crashed!

Late Christmas morning, we were just getting up when the phone rang. Larry saw it was

Washington. He answered the phone and said, "Thomas?" I jumped up and grabbed the other

phone. What a wonderful Christmas morning. He couldn't talk long but wanted to tell us that

he was going to call a couple of hours earlier than expected. Our hearts felt so good and it was

certainly Christmas!

No voice

Today is Sunday, and I had to stay home from church. I've had a bad sore throat and laryngitis.

Not fun! I whisper and ring a bell when I need Larry to help with something. It's so funny!

It's wonderful to have the Priesthood in my home and that Larry could give me a blessing.

I just have to get better so that I can talk to our missionary son, Thomas, when he calls on

Christmas Eve or on Christmas Day...we don't know when he will be calling yet.

Our oldest daughter, Maria, made lunch for us today and it was so delicious.

She made whole wheat spaghetti and a fruit drink with spinach blended up in it.

It doesn't sound very good, but it was the best!

We enjoyed the two family Christmas parties last night. One was for Larry's side of the family

and was held at the church building. We enjoyed a lovely dinner, a great story, message from

Grandpa, and a hayride. The other was for my side of the family and was held at my sisters,

Martha's home. We arrived after dinner, as both parties were on the same evening. But,

we so much enjoyed visiting and hearing the musical performances. It was wonderful!!

Having two parties on one night was a little too much for me and by the end of the evening,

I had lost my voice. But, it was great to see family and just be together.

...Well, Larry is in bed and it is super late... so, I will hurry off to join him soon. He set up a

humidifier next to our bed to add a little moisture to the air and to help with my throat.

That was so nice of him. Larry is really good to me and is constantly serving and helping me

out. I am very blessed to have such a wonderful husband!

I just want to add, what a blessing it is to be alive and to get to enjoy this wonderful Christmas

season with family and friends!

Our Family Party

I'm so excited for our Larry and Margaret Family Party tomorrow. We have a wonderful

tradition every year of going to a nursing home and performing for the elderly people.

Then, afterwards, we all come to our house for pizza and make ginger bread houses! So fun!

We started performing when Aaron and Jonathan were little and have kept it up through the

years. Some people give gifts and money to those in need at Christmas, and that is a great

thing to do, but as we really never had much money to give away, we decided years ago to share

something that we did have....music! It's very rewarding and humbling to go into the nursing

homes and find it a privilege to get to share some of the Christmas Spirit with them.

Although when we leave, we find that they blessed our lives far more than we did theirs.

We visit and hand out candy canes afterwards. It really makes my Christmas

special because, not only do I get to hear my children and grandchildren perform, but get

to see the smiles on the faces of the elderly as well. It's a great tradition and we plan on keeping

this throughout the years. Larry and I are singing a song together and are enjoying practicing

practicing it every morning. Along with the hustle and bustle of Christmas, music

brings that special glow inside. We are going to miss Thomas this year as he is in Washington

serving a mission for our church. Maybe he will find an opportunity to sing for others as well.

Peggy Sue Golf Tournament

Although I missed going the the tournament, I was there in spirit. I so much appreciate all who

gave up their Saturday (and the wife's who gave up their husbands) to golf the 18 holes in my

behalf. The hat's turned out so nice...thanks to Ellen Rogers and her son Jeff. Bryan Stradling

deserves a big hand for all that he did in my behalf. (and Maria as well!) So many people

donated money and time and I don't how to begin to thank everyone.

But, I just couldn't go to bed with out attempting to express my deep appreciation to all that

were involved. It comes down to love. There are so many Christ-like people out there. One

person donated $5. Some $75... others more. Another donated $1,000. All the money

combined sure adds up. Thank you...thank you...thank you....to all of you that helped in any

way. I love you all!

Peace

Throughout this whole cancer experience, I have felt such deep peace. It has sustained me and

given me great comfort. I know what it is like to be held in the Lord's hand and to be blessed

while experiencing a deep trial. He has truly been with me every step of the way and is

continuing to bless my life and to give me strength. This Christmas season I want to testify that

God lives and that He loves each of His children. I know that miracles have not ceased and that

healing continues even in our day. I have such a wonderful husband that is very supportive and

helpful to me. He loves me and that means everything to me. I am blessed with such great

children that have strong faith and are there for me constantly. They, along with so

many others have sacrificed much in order to help me. Thank you to all that pray for me and

give so generously to help me get my pills. May God bless each of you with your needs this

Christmas season. Good news! I made the Easter Pageant along with my granddaughter

Rebecca. So, we will be having a very special experience this spring. It will be wonderful to

participate in testifying of Jesus Christ through music and acting!

Thankful List

Here are a few things I'm grateful for today.

That may kids and family could come over today for Thanksgiving Dinner and that

we had such a great time together

I am thrilled to be alive and getting better.


It's exciting to be a part of a "healing miracle" even though I would rather be the one helping

and praying for someone else. I'm so happy that I am getting better.

I'm thankful for my family. I have wonderful parents, parents in laws, sisters, brothers, in laws,

a great husband and fantastic children and darling grandchildren! So blessed!!

I'm grateful to have a house to live in with good food to eat and clean water to drink.

Also, I'm thankful for a comfortable bed and pillows, and a bathtub with warm water.

I'm thankful for a living prophet to guide us in these perilous days.

I'm very thankful for a loving Heavenly Father and for His plan for his children, for our

Saviour, who personally suffered for me and is making it possible to be healed.

I'm also grateful for our son, Thomas, who is serving a full time mission in Washington State

and for all the missionaries that are serving throughout the world and sharing the gospel of

happiness with my brothers and sisters.

I'm so grateful for the scriptures and for the strength that I get from searching them.

Probably one of the most important gifts that I have is that of the Holy Ghost and I am so

grateful for the peace that is mine even in the midst of trials.

God is holding me close and easing my burdens. He has not forsaken me but has been there for

me every day.

I am sooo grateful for His help and also for everyone that is helping me get well through their

prayers, faith, money, service.....and support!

Life is wonderful and these are just some of the things that I am grateful for today!

Wonderful Son in Law

I just want to say something about Bryan Stradling on this blog. He is really going the extra

mile and serving me, his mother in law, with putting together the Peggy Sue Golf Tournament.

It's true that all the family is helping him, but, it was his idea and he is heading it up. That is

really nice of him and it means a lot to me. I hope that many people support us in this event

and that we can make the money needed for my pills. Anyway, I just wanted to say how much I

appreciate Bryan's love and support.

Yesterday, Larry and I took a walk together with our darling grandson, Craig. We walked to

my sister Mary Nielson's house and had a nice visit and then walked home again. We walked

about 3/4 a mile and I was just fine. So, my energy level is certainly increasing and I am soooo

happy that I'm getting well. Truly, Heavenly Father is watching over me and taking care of my

needs. I have great peace inside.

My friend

I just want to share a special experience that happened this morning. A dear

friend called me and said that she was reading her scriptures this morning and

thought of me. So, she called and said that she is concerned about having a big trial in her life

someday and that she wants to be prepared for it. So, she was studying the atonement and is

trying to increase her faith. She asked me how I can remain happy and positive through my

health trial. She realizes that I am getting better and that a miracle is occurring and wanted to

ask about what has given me strength to meet my trial. She is so sweet and it touched me heart

to think that she is trying to prepare now...for the future. Most people don't even think about

trials until one hits them. So we talked and cried together. I told her that I don't have to worry

about things because the Lord told me I would be healed all the way and instructed me where

to go to get the help I needed. I just trust in the Lord and know that He keeps His promises.

At the same time, I am doing the things He asked me to do. I know that it is not occurring just

because of my faith. It is because of the faith of so many. Faith is real and it precedes the

miracle. Then she asked if there was anything else that has blessed my life and gives me

strength, and I told her about D & C 98: 1-3 and how the early saints were being persecuted and

how they were instructed to handle trials. They were given 5 things to do. I learned those

steps when my husband was so sick and now I can apply them to myself and I am... and they

work.

They are to fear not, let your hearts be comforted, rejoice evermore, in everything give thanks,

wait patiently on the Lord for he has heard our prayers....and all things will work out for our

good.

So, life is wonderful and I am again very grateful for the tender mercies that the Lord is

granting to me.

By the way, I just got back from a nice long walk around the neighborhood and to the retention

basin and I feel great!

Recovering

The flu got me. Sunday I was down all day and then Monday as well. It's strange

how you start to feel better and then get sick again. Maria brought us in a delicious

chicken soup...it is the best. I loved it. Also, she made me carob brownies with

whole wheat flour and honey, They are very moist and yummy. Larry just went to

the store for me and I am so taken care of and blessed.

Someone very special gave the money to buy a months supply of my Tykerb

medicine, which took a tremendous amount of stress off of Larry. It was so helpful!!

Also, my son in law, Bryan, is putting together a "Golf Tournament" to raise money

for me. He has put a lot of time and effort into it and it should be very successful. It

will be the first Saturday in December. I hope that anyone who is interested in

golfing or helping in anyway will contact Larry or me or Bryan Stradling. All my

kids are helping out with it. They are calling it "Peggy Sue's Golf Tournament", as it

is my nickname. My real name is Margaret Susan but the popular name of the day

was Peggy Sue. So.....Bryan sometimes calls me by that name. He is so funny. I am

grateful for a very supportive family. They make me smile and feel happy and

loved.

I am looking forward to feeling better from this dreadful flu and then trying out for

the Easter Pageant with my grand-daughter this Friday. Hope we make it!

Grandchildren

It's so much fun to play with and watch my grandchildren. They are the cutest and so

adorable. As Aaron and Andrea are moving, I get to watch some of their children. Rebecca, age

5, brought with her a special envelope which was all sealed up with money inside. On the outside

she had written "Rebecca Disneyland Money". Then she gave it to me for my pills. She said

that she had earned it by doing lots of chores and was saving it for Disney Land... but she

changed her mind. I was so touched.

We emptied it onto the bed and counted out the nickles and dimes and pennies. It was two

dollars and 95 cents. What a sacrifice. It really is special that my grandchildren want to help

me. I know that their money is like the widow's mite and that the Lord recognizes their money

as such. I love being their grandmother.

Blessings from Heaven

As you know, we have been strugling to pay for our expensive pills to keep me alive. But, the

Lord is right there to bless me through so many angels on earth. My brothers and sisters each

contributed and together were able to come up with $1,100, which is very helpful. Then today,

another angel dropped $100 off at my door.

Larry's parents gave us money as well. It's wonderful to know that I am being taken

care of and that somehow the money comes in. Our son in law, Bryan is also

working to put together a golf tournament with pledges, to go towards my medicine. I

know that our loving Heavenly Father watches over us and He hears our heartfelt prayers. So

many people on earth are in tune with the Spirit and are willing to sacrifice for little old me. I

feel very blessed! (By the way, if anyone ever reads this blog and has questions about my experience at the Burzynski Clinic you can email me at musicmanning@gmail.com and I would love to talk with you about it)

False Alarm!

Sorry about the mix up. Larry King ended up having a substitute and they wanted

to talk about the boy and the big balloon that went up into the sky. So.....the Dr.

Burzynski is suppose to on either tonight or Friday night. Please try to watch it if

you can.

I had a very special blessing occur today. Larry and I have been concerned about

getting more pills for me as it is quite costly. We just don't have the money right

now and needed to order them. After much pleading, the Burzynski Clinic is going

to send us a week supply of the PB (cancer pills) free. Yay! That will give us some

more time. Also, my sister, Mary, said that some of my brothers and sisters gave

her some money last night at her birthday party to give to me. So, I may be able to

by my Tykerb on Wednesday. I know that the Lord is watching over me and our

family. But, please continue to keep me in your prayers and pray that we will be

able to have the pills that I need to live! Thanks so much, Margaret

CNN

Exciting News!

Dr. Burzynski will be on the Larry King Live Show (CNN) on Monday,

October 19th at 6 pm. He is going to talk about what they do at the clinic

and why he can help people with cancer. I'm so excited to see the show

and hope that everyone I love can see it too. He's kind of shy but very

intelligent and full of energy. Hope you can watch it.