Faith and Family

Hey everyone,

We wanted to share an update on Louie’s journey and pass along a big thank you for all the love, prayers, and support they have received. Marianne and Louie are focusing on Jesus, and through Him, seeing a lot of little blessings in the midst of this hard time.

Life has been busy with a lot of appointments and more coming up, but Louie and Marianne are finding peace in the way everything is falling into place. They’ve been praying together often and that is what keeps them grounded. The treatments are moving forward as planned, and they are just taking things one step at a time. It’s been a reminder that, even in the chaos, they’re not walking this road alone—God’s peace has been with them through it all.

Louie and Marianne are celebrating an early Thanksgiving this Saturday with Louie’s siblings. They’re planning a nice dinner together, putting up the Christmas tree, and setting up the Nativity scene. But more than anything, it’s going to be a time for prayer and worship—just taking a moment to thank God for the blessings they’ve experienced so far and focus on what really matters: their faith and family.

Speaking of family, Louie and Marianne recently enjoyed a much needed visit this week, and it was such an encouragement. They had a great meal, enjoyed some dessert, and spent time in prayer together. It really lifted their spirits and reminded them that they’re not going through this alone. God always seems to send just what they need at the right time, and that visit was definitely part of that.

Another family shout out! Marianne’s mom, Nita, will be joining them in Santa Clara for Louie’s first week in the hospital. As you can imagine, Nita’s already in full “mom mode,” making sure everything is taken care of for Louie and Marianne. Having Nita there will be such a huge blessing, Marianne and Louie are both really grateful for Nita’s love and support.

Louie and Marianne are also hoping that Marianne can stay at the JW House, which is right on the hospital campus, for the remainder of their stay. It’s a much more affordable option than a hotel, and it even includes dinner, which would be a huge help. The only catch is that there are only four rooms available, so they are waiting to hear if they will get one. Please keep them in your prayers, this would be such a blessing!

Please also pray that Louie’s radiation records would be obtained quickly, they are needed for his ongoing treatment and there seems to be an issue having them sent. 

On a positive note, Louie had a really encouraging appointment with his therapist today. His therapist actually thanked him for having such a great attitude through everything. Louie replied, “It’s Jesus!”—and truly, his faith has been such a big part of his strength and determination to fight this battle. I love that even in the midst of everything going on, Louie is sharing the love of Christ with those around him! 

Louie will be starting some new home exercises to keep his swallowing muscles active. The therapist told Louie to think of eating as exercise, with food being the “dumbbell” he uses to strengthen those muscles. He also got some tongue exercises to work on. We all know how much Louie likes to workout, so this shouldn't be a problem! 

Through all of this, Louie and Marianne have been blown away by the love and support they have received. The prayers, messages, and acts of kindness from all of you have made such a difference. It’s given them the strength to keep going, and they’re deeply thankful for every single one of you who has reached out or kept them in your prayers.

As we move into the holiday season, Louie and Marianne would love for you to keep praying and seeking God. They have seen God’s hand in this journey, and they’re so grateful for the power of prayer. They also want to encourage you to take time this season to appreciate your blessings and sow love and peace with your family and friends. 

Love you all!

Sara