This is not my story.  It's the story of my friend, Melissa, which I'm sharing today.  It's perfect timing, really, since she just turned 40 yesterday.  Yay Meliss!  But a year ago, we didn't know if she would see this day. 
The story really started years ago as a tumor began to grow in Melissa's spine, without her knowledge.  With strange back and neck pain on and off for years, Melissa had grown used to her back "issues."  But in the fall of 2009, the pain hit an all-time high and Melissa couldn't bear it.  She had a CT scan and an MRI (if I remember correctly) and there it was:  a big tumor growing in her spine.
The pictures didn't answer whether the tumor was malignant or not, and frankly, it didn't matter.  Leave the tumor and Melissa wouldn't live.  Surgically remove the tumor and Melissa might not live.  Neuro-surgeons around the country declined to operate.  When a few offered hope, Melissa stood up to that tumor and went for it.  In the face of odds I choose not to write here (God has no "odds" anyway), Melissa faced surgery.
The preparation was daunting and the doctors filled her with steroids that were uncomfortable themselves.  Melissa's surgeon was encouraging but realistic.  If she lived, Melissa likely wouldn't walk again.  And so we prayed.  At least four congregations prayed.  And her friends prayed some more.  And she had the hugest Caring Bridge page you've ever seen.
One year ago last week, Melissa had that life-threatening surgery.  PRAISE THE LORD, the entire tumor was removed.  In one shot.  AND SHE LIVED.  But not only did she live, she walked.  Just a week later.  Oh. My. Goodness.  What a testimony to God's greatness in this woman, Melissa.
Looking back, it's hard to even wrap my arms around where we were a year ago.  Yes, there are some lingering effects.  But for the most part, Melissa is whole.  And just as lively as ever.
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So I dedicate this Memorial Box Monday to Melissa, my girl, who showed us how God can walk with us through the Valley of the Shadow of Death to the other side.  Thank you Jesus for your healing powers.  AMEN!!