• Home
  • About
    • Our Journey
    • Popular Posts
  • Blog
    • Motherhood
    • Style
    • Home
      • Clarke Residence
    • Life
    • Verses
    • Faith
    • Travel
    • Blog Tips
  • Simply Clarke

  • Marriage
  • Shop
    • My Shop
    • Shop My Style
    • Amazon Favorites
    • Clarke Residence
  • Contact
    • Collaborate

Simply Clarke

Life
/
November 17, 2017

We Need Your Prayers

(Jennifer and I – December 2014)

This might be the hardest post I have ever written. We knew 2017 was going to be hard. We knew it. We even signed up for most of it. But… we didn’t know it was going to be THIS HARD. We knew that we were adding a new edition to our little family, but we didn’t know how hard the end of pregnancy would be. We knew were changing jobs, we knew we were moving, we knew we were living in a temporary location until our house was done being built… we knew these things. We mentally prepared for them. But, we weren’t prepared to hear the gut-wrenching word CANCER in 2017.

Kevin’s sister, my sister-in-law, Jennifer, has been diagnosed with Stage 4 Breast Cancer that has metastasized to her bones. She received the diagnosis days after delivering her sweet new baby boy into the world.

(Jennifer and Baby Kevin – July 2017)

I share this with you, because over the past five years, you have all become my friends. I have shared countless blog posts on my faith, our marriage, our kids, our joys, our failures… our life. And, I share this with you to ask for your support and prayers for my sister-in-law and our family.

This has been what seems to be a long journey so far with lots of highs and lows. Re-wind to a year ago August, you may remember that my sister-in-law got married in Hilton Head. We had such a fun wedding vacation. We watched her walk down the aisle as a beautiful bride, then in March, we found out she was expecting. We were over the moon excited to add a new little niece or nephew to the crew.

August 2016

Then, in April, the same week we found out her little baby was a boy we got the horrible news. The biopsy and scans revealed that Jennifer has breast cancer. Amidst the joyous time of pregnancy, she faced the agony of chemotherapy. She experienced her sweet baby kicking in her belly and losing her hair in the shower. She was not able to undergo all scans due to her pregnancy, but her team of doctors were confident in her treatment plan. At this point, she was officially diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Grade 3 Stage 2A based on the scans they could perform.

Baby Brody made his entrance into the world October 12, 2017 at 11:51pm. We were all relieved and excited for a healthy baby boy. There were plans for a mastectomy and radiation in the next few weeks, then everything changed. Our world halted. Day after day, we kept finding out they were doing more tests, another scan, more blood-work, another biopsy, more needles. It was bad news after bad news. They found that the cancer had spread to her bones in her spinal and pelvic area. Then, the surgeon confirmed that if one spot on her spine was not removed, it could paralyze her. Surgery was scheduled and completed successfully.

They left the hospital with a new baby, a 14 inch incision down her spine, a confirmation of Stage 4 Breast Cancer and a rather bleak outlook from the doctors about her future.

Friends, my heart just hurts daily and my mind is anxious for the future. Jennifer is in good spirits and her constant joking self. She is leaning into her sweet husband Rick, son Luca, new baby boy Brody, our family and her friends. We are surrounding her with lots of love, fun, and positive attitudes. She will fight, she is fighting. But, we are all scared. We are all fearful. And we need your prayers.

If you have any questions or comments you can feel free to share them and share her story. I want to ask again for you and anyone you know to pray for her. Our family would truly appreciate it. I hope that sharing the details of our journey will not only help her but help others, just as the goal of this blog has always been.

Pin this Post
Share this Post
18 Comments
Leave a Comment

You May Also Like...

Girls Weekend Photos

August 4, 2014

8 Summer Girls Weekend Ideas

August 1, 2014

Encouraging Your Friends

July 28, 2014
18 Comments
  • Magan
    November 17, 2017

    Oh such hard news!!! Praying for God to heal your sis in law!!

    Reply
    • Marquis Clarke
      Magan
      November 17, 2017

      Thank you so much for your prayers!

      Reply
  • Samantha Curtis
    November 17, 2017

    Praying so hard for you all <3

    Reply
    • Marquis Clarke
      Samantha Curtis
      November 17, 2017

      Thank you so much friend!

      Reply
  • Ashley Pletcher
    November 17, 2017

    Sending prayers <3

    Reply
    • Marquis Clarke
      Ashley Pletcher
      November 17, 2017

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  • Brittany @ Grace, Love, Life
    November 17, 2017

    Sending prayers.

    Reply
    • Marquis Clarke
      Brittany @ Grace, Love, Life
      November 17, 2017

      Thank you so much

      Reply
  • Laura Beth
    November 17, 2017

    My heart hurts. Sending so many prayers.

    Reply
    • Marquis Clarke
      Laura Beth
      November 17, 2017

      We so appreciate your prayers for Jenn!

      Reply
  • Sierra
    November 17, 2017

    As someone expecting a little boy this breaks my heart even more. Sending prayers!

    Reply
  • Marquis Clarke
    November 17, 2017

    Thank you so much!

    Reply
  • Lauren | Simply Elliott
    November 17, 2017

    Oh friend, my heart is breaking for your family. Fervent prayers for healing, comfort, and peace.

    Reply
  • Erin Phillips
    November 17, 2017

    Sending prayers her way and to your family during such a time of highs and lows!

    -Erin, Attention to Darling
    attentiontodarling.com

    Reply
  • Sharon Slater Miller
    November 17, 2017

    Gods plan is always perfect tho we can often question it. I am so glad you and your family are so faith based in God and all he can do your support is incredible Praying for you Jennifer

    Reply
  • Larry Moore
    November 18, 2017

    We’ve hugged, in the past, so just consider this a hug in cyber space, to show my love for you…….. and it’s also cheap.

    Reply
  • Mary Leigh
    November 20, 2017

    Oh my goodness. What a gut-wrenching year. I don’t even have words to fully express how hard I imiagine this to be. What a beautiful family! Wishing you all the best this time of year and sending prayers your way!

    Reply
  • Bethany Back
    November 21, 2017

    Praying praying!
    I cannot imagine what all of you are going through.

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel Comment

Previous Post
How To Handle Baby’s First Fever
Next Post
Christmas Etsy Finds
Hi, I’m Marquis Clarke

Hi, I’m Marquis Clarke

I'm a modern mom of two, who strives to encourage women throughout marriage and motherhood. I embrace life as it comes with kid meltdowns, family dance parties, and snacks galore. I believe that laughter is the best medicine, simplicity is perfection, and that life is breathtakingly beautiful.

Join the Simply Clarke community and receive weekly updates via email

Motherhood

Faith

Fashion

Home

Shop My Latest Faves

product_title_1

Bible

product_title_2

Coffee

product_title_3

Planner

product_title_4

Shades

  • Tuscan Tortellini Salad

    September 6, 2024
  • KidPik Review + Sale

    February 20, 2024
  • CreArt: Unique Gift Idea for Creative Kids

    November 18, 2023

Current Location

Current Location
Houston, Texas

  • #ad Big style, little price: Art Class Kids t-shirt’s from $8 and under at @Target! ✏️+ 20% off character backpack sets this week. 📚🍎

Get the styles kids love, at prices parents love even more!

❤️COMMENT “shop” and I’ll DM you the link to shop our favorite styles in my Target Storefront.

#TargetCreator #paidlink #TargetBacktoSchool
  • ✈️ Packing up today to fly out tomorrow so sharing my favorite Amazon travel outfits!

These are so soft and cozy, perfect travel outfits.

COMMENT “shop” for the link to these gems 💎 

#amazonmusthaves #amazonfind #traveloutfit #cozyoutfit #casualoutfit / https://liketk.it/5iDow
  • a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
  • ✨UNDER $15 ✨Hands down, my top 4 Favorite Amazon Tees! 💗 I own most of these in multiple colors and they are just so so good. 

COMMENT “shop” and I’ll DM you the link to shop these! 🛍️ (these are all on sale for prime days!) / https://liketk.it/5iwAT

#amazonmusthaves #amazonfind #primeday #casualoutfit
  • SALE ALERT ❤️ My favorite Target activewear shorts are on sale for $14!! I have them in green, navy and light blue (in 1st & 2nd picture).

So many other cute ones 30% off as well!

COMMENT “shop” and I’ll DM you the link to shop these, TODAY ONLY!

#target #targetcircle #activewear #targetmusthaves #targetmademedoit / https://liketk.it/5is5e
  • #ad The @BISSELLclean Little Green Mini Cordless is an @Amazon Prime Day MUST HAVE!

Whether you’re tackling car seat stains, cleaning up post-playdate chaos, or just cleaning up normal build up, the Little Green Mini keeps life mess-free so you can focus on the fun.

COMMENT “shop” and I’ll DM you the link to shop the #LittleGreenMini for 25% off! #PrimeTimeToClean #BISSELLPartner
  • We snuck in a little getaway the past few days at @thesanluisresort in Galveston, Texas. 

We were blown away with how this gem is so close to home and we didn’t even realize. 

From the moment you walk in the door, you just feel like it’s an elevated coastal escape. 

It’s very luxurious for adults, yet fun for kids. The views from our room were incredible and we could spend all day at their pool (it’s has the most serene vibe).

They also have daily kid-friendly activities and with their Island Explorer package - you get passes to Pleasure Pier.

All of us had such a good time and can’t wait to go back!

#thingstodoinhouston #galveston #texasvacation #texasgetaway #familyvacay #houstoninfluencer
@marquis_clarke
@marquis_clarke
•
Follow
#ad Big style, little price: Art Class Kids t-shirt’s from $8 and under at @Target! ✏️+ 20% off character backpack sets this week. 📚🍎 Get the styles kids love, at prices parents love even more! ❤️COMMENT “shop” and I’ll DM you the link to shop our favorite styles in my Target Storefront. #TargetCreator #paidlink #TargetBacktoSchool
1 day ago
View on Instagram |
1/7
@marquis_clarke
@marquis_clarke
•
Follow
✈️ Packing up today to fly out tomorrow so sharing my favorite Amazon travel outfits! These are so soft and cozy, perfect travel outfits. COMMENT “shop” for the link to these gems 💎 #amazonmusthaves #amazonfind #traveloutfit #cozyoutfit #casualoutfit / https://liketk.it/5iDow
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/7
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙

#texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
@marquis_clarke
@marquis_clarke
•
Follow
a few more memories from our trip to @thesanluisresort in galveston 🏖️ we had so much fun exploring the strand, relaxing at the pool and enjoying the incredible scenery. 10/10 recommend @thesanluisresort 💙 #texasvacation #thingstodoinhouston #houstonmoms
3 days ago
View on Instagram |
3/7
@marquis_clarke
@marquis_clarke
•
Follow
✨UNDER $15 ✨Hands down, my top 4 Favorite Amazon Tees! 💗 I own most of these in multiple colors and they are just so so good. COMMENT “shop” and I’ll DM you the link to shop these! 🛍️ (these are all on sale for prime days!) / https://liketk.it/5iwAT #amazonmusthaves #amazonfind #primeday #casualoutfit
4 days ago
View on Instagram |
4/7
SALE ALERT ❤️ My favorite Target activewear shorts are on sale for $14!! I have them in green, navy and light blue (in 1st & 2nd picture).

So many other cute ones 30% off as well!

COMMENT “shop” and I’ll DM you the link to shop these, TODAY ONLY!

#target #targetcircle #activewear #targetmusthaves #targetmademedoit / https://liketk.it/5is5e
SALE ALERT ❤️ My favorite Target activewear shorts are on sale for $14!! I have them in green, navy and light blue (in 1st & 2nd picture).

So many other cute ones 30% off as well!

COMMENT “shop” and I’ll DM you the link to shop these, TODAY ONLY!

#target #targetcircle #activewear #targetmusthaves #targetmademedoit / https://liketk.it/5is5e
SALE ALERT ❤️ My favorite Target activewear shorts are on sale for $14!! I have them in green, navy and light blue (in 1st & 2nd picture).

So many other cute ones 30% off as well!

COMMENT “shop” and I’ll DM you the link to shop these, TODAY ONLY!

#target #targetcircle #activewear #targetmusthaves #targetmademedoit / https://liketk.it/5is5e
SALE ALERT ❤️ My favorite Target activewear shorts are on sale for $14!! I have them in green, navy and light blue (in 1st & 2nd picture).

So many other cute ones 30% off as well!

COMMENT “shop” and I’ll DM you the link to shop these, TODAY ONLY!

#target #targetcircle #activewear #targetmusthaves #targetmademedoit / https://liketk.it/5is5e
SALE ALERT ❤️ My favorite Target activewear shorts are on sale for $14!! I have them in green, navy and light blue (in 1st & 2nd picture).

So many other cute ones 30% off as well!

COMMENT “shop” and I’ll DM you the link to shop these, TODAY ONLY!

#target #targetcircle #activewear #targetmusthaves #targetmademedoit / https://liketk.it/5is5e
@marquis_clarke
@marquis_clarke
•
Follow
SALE ALERT ❤️ My favorite Target activewear shorts are on sale for $14!! I have them in green, navy and light blue (in 1st & 2nd picture). So many other cute ones 30% off as well! COMMENT “shop” and I’ll DM you the link to shop these, TODAY ONLY! #target #targetcircle #activewear #targetmusthaves #targetmademedoit / https://liketk.it/5is5e
4 days ago
View on Instagram |
5/7
@marquis_clarke
@marquis_clarke
•
Follow
#ad The @BISSELLclean Little Green Mini Cordless is an @Amazon Prime Day MUST HAVE! Whether you’re tackling car seat stains, cleaning up post-playdate chaos, or just cleaning up normal build up, the Little Green Mini keeps life mess-free so you can focus on the fun. COMMENT “shop” and I’ll DM you the link to shop the #LittleGreenMini for 25% off! #PrimeTimeToClean #BISSELLPartner
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
6/7
@marquis_clarke
@marquis_clarke
•
Follow
We snuck in a little getaway the past few days at @thesanluisresort in Galveston, Texas. We were blown away with how this gem is so close to home and we didn’t even realize. From the moment you walk in the door, you just feel like it’s an elevated coastal escape. It’s very luxurious for adults, yet fun for kids. The views from our room were incredible and we could spend all day at their pool (it’s has the most serene vibe). They also have daily kid-friendly activities and with their Island Explorer package - you get passes to Pleasure Pier. All of us had such a good time and can’t wait to go back! #thingstodoinhouston #galveston #texasvacation #texasgetaway #familyvacay #houstoninfluencer
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
7/7

  • About
  • Disclosure and Privacy Policy
  • Collaborate

COPYRIGHT© 2020 Simply Clarke Site by Simply Clarke