Hi Dave,

There’s a verse, “train up a child in the way they should go, and when they’re old they won’t depart from it.” You and Irene have done that brother — the biggest blessing in reading your book is the deep and heartfelt response to the very difficult circumstances from your daughters .... worth more than gold.

You guys remain in our prayers friend.

Dave McQuade

What a joy it is to read daily from your websute.  The words of Laura Gschwend share my heart beat about Irene’s green thumb and the Kingdom.  I so appreciate those who have a wonderful use of the English language and can express it.

The other that I so appreciated was by Joni Eareckson Tada - this picture was so clear and that is how Irene showcases who Jesus Christ is. 

I pray today that you both do not grow weary in well doing for Jesus Christ.

Carolene

Hi Dave & Irene.

I had no idea. I can’t believe all of the things that you guys have been through. Kristi told me about your situation yesterday. I asked her to send me the link so I have been looking over the web site. Wow. I will be praying for you all.

Very good job on the web site. Very informative and does a great job of bringing glory to God.

Thanks

Don Sleeper

Hi Dave and Irene,

I have been on a recent journey in my devotional life where seeing God’s Glory in “the kingdom of God” as Jesus often referred is best seen in the weakness of all who call Jesus Lord.  The most common expression of God’s Glory is best seen within our weakness.  We often may attribute to someone that they have character in the way they handle themselves, or that they have great skills or giftings.  But who gets the glory?Weakness makes the best and clearest way to see us stripped of our veneers.  If we are weak yet look to be strong what other explanatation is there?  You both have come to mind often and I see God’s glory shining through your day to day challenges, the times of being weak.  Staying alive is not living, but living life each day we are given is to be alive.  I am seeing God’s Glory shinning through you.  Thanks for being a beacon that points me to our source of all things.  I will continue in our prayers for your current pursuit of medical procedures and feeling God’s immeasurable touch in the simple moments of the day to day.

I love the series Reed did on suffering and was excited to see it listed on your site.  Another wonderful form of God’s Glory!

Our Love,

Dave and Edie

My wife and I would like to extend our thoughts and prayers to your family.  My wife, Deborah sue was diagnosed with Breast cancer on her 50th birthday Dec. 2002, in Aug 2003 she was diagnosed with malignant melanoma on her eyelid.  She was treated with a lumpectomy for both and was due to be in remission for BC Mar of this year.  On thanksgiving of this year she collapsed and was rushed to the hospital which found a large pleural affusion in her chest.

Test results confirmed metastatic malignant melanom throughout her chest and lungs.  It has been a roller coaster ride ever since.  I can’t begin to tell you how blessed we are.  We have the same good days and bad days resulting from Biochemo therapy that many others experience as well.  Although her prognosis is grim, her spirit remains strong and our faith affords us the gift of clinging to each small victory with hope as opposed to dwelling on the overall crisis.  My wife, as is yours; is an inspiration to all who come in contact with her. She is also an example of the fragile nature of our lives.  In the end all that really matters is our faith, friends and families.  God bless you and your family we will be praying for you.  John Crouch

Hi Dave,

I visit Irene’s web site often. I am surprised that she didn’t make some of her famous “blueberry dessert” for your super bowl bash. What an awesome ministry and influence her web site accomplishes. It is interesting how life is so paradoxical; when we think that we are comforting and encouraging an individual, the truth of the matter is that they are a much greater encouragement to us. In 1 Thes. 3:7, the apostle Paul says that it was the steadfast faith and labor of the believers that gave him the comfort and encouragement to endure his afflictions; that our labor is not in vain. My mom ministered to me more in her affliction than I ever could have done for her. I had flown to California to visit her, planning my words carefully, preparing my emotions for the painful visit. When I opened her bedroom door, there she was, sitting on her bed dressed in her brightest dress, with a big smile on her face. I asked, “how are you doing, mom”? With a big smile, her face beaming, she replied, “I’m standing on the promises.” That took every bit of “Mr. tough” out of me. She demonstrated a faith, in her Lord, that I will remember always, and hope to attain.

I will be in prayer for you and Irene. You have blessed the multitudes.

Philippians 1:29 is an interesting verse. We have been granted a privilege.  I will let you read it. It is hard to fathom, at times. Keep striving.

Know that He is God.

Your friend,

Phil

Dave and Irene....

We continue to strongly support you both in our Prayers....One day at a time sweet Jesus...the old song goes...And its so true....Dave the thoughts and flow of the story journaling Irenes illness along with your giftedness will have eternal impact....We are grandparenting in NC until the 12th....Have a Blessed Lords day...Our love to all...Jack

Dave and Irene,

We are anxiously awaiting the arrival of the copies of “Irene’s Journey of Faith” we ordered when we returned from vacation this week.  We plan to give a copy each to several friends of ours who have prayed for Irene over the course of time.  Your updates are wonderful, inspiring, and sure help us know the best way to pray day to day.  We continue to lift up Irene each day, for the ultimate healing in the long term, but also for just what’s needed to get through each day. 

Isaiah 65:24 - “It shall come to pass that before they call, I will answer; and while they are still speaking I will hear.”

With love,

Steve and Sue Azevedo

Hi Dave…

And actually, this is to Irene—I went on your website today at your suggestion; bless your heart, what an honor it is to know that my devotional book and other words of encouragement have been used of the Lord to strengthen your heart.  I just wanted to thank you, dear Irene, for going the extra mile and keeping your smile despite the tremendous physical challenges you are facing.  You have not let this disability “define” who Irene Dias is; but you have used this disability to showcase who Jesus Christ is.  That’s why your story is such a huge inspiration.  Give your husband a “head hug” for me and greet your children, too.  My prayer for you today is from Psalm 31:24, “Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.”

May hope and help, peace and grace be yours, dear Irene…

Joni

Dear Dave and Irene,

We were excited to learn the news of Irene’s kidney function improvement.  Yea!  I last read your site on 1/23 and recalled it saying you would not update until 1/28 so I hadn’t checked in for a few days.  Dave and I had some wonderful prayer time yesterday and specifically felt led to ask the Lord to wake up Irene’s kidneys.  God was already doing it before we prayed.  God really is amazing.  We just got your book in the mail today too and look forward to reading it.

Love, Dave & Bev

Irene and Dave: Just finished your book, Dave, wonderful tribute to Irene.  I only just heard about your battle, Irene, I apologize for having my head in the sand. You are a phenomenal role model for those battling adversity.  Congratulations for your message. Someone said tough times never last, tough people do.  You are the best example.  God bless you both, the world needs more people like you.  Congratulations on the website, a marvelous tool. Best wishes. Never, never, never, never give up according to Churchill.  We know you won’t.  Ken and Sue Noack

Dear Irene,

I have not had the opportunity to meet you yet but I worked for a time with Dave while I was at Passalong.  What a great and uplifting blog that you two have put together.  I keep trying to book a trip to northern california and they keep getting pushed.  I look forward to one day soon getting together in person with you all.  You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Lee
Speakerheart.com

Dave and Irene,

I wanted to reach out to you today. Irene, I just became aware of your plight. I’ve known Dave for about 6 years now. Mostly in a business capacity but have always thought the world of him. I knew he would have someone as special as you in his life because he was always so kind and considerate to me.

My wife recently lost her best friend to breast cancer after a long fight. 5 years to be exact. Her friend mostly ignored the Doctor’s orders and the cancer overtook her. We prayed that she’d recover and prayed that she’d listen and take her doctor’s instructions to heart.

From my wife Stephanie and myself, we send the warmest of wishes and pray for a cure and for Irene’s speedy recovery. Anything short of your doctor telling you to jump off a bridge ........ listen to him/her.

Paul & Stephanie Francoeur

Dear Irene and Dave,

The Lord faithfully brings you to mind in prayer.

Love to you.

Susan

Dave and Irene --

What a legacy you are leaving your family and loved ones. The daily entries have been so rich and meaningful. No matter what a day brings to either of you .... I hear a constant theme of the faithfulness of God, the gracious courage of Irene and love and devotion from Dave.

What an honor and treasure it is to both journey with you and pray from afar and know that God is answering our hearts’ cry for healing and strength.

Our love and prayers today and tomorrow

Joe and Sally