Janna Jones

Janna Jones, the daughter of GCI pastor Jim Kissee, gives the following update:

I would like to thank everyone for the prayers, thoughts and cards. I have been so touched and encouraged by the cards that I have received from all over the U.S., plus from England and Australia. Your taking the time to do this for me means so much. I am 31 weeks pregnant now and baby girl (to be named Lilah Elaine) is doing well. Her 30 week ultrasound showed her to be right on track growth wise at 2 lbs., 13 oz. Our current plan is to induce labor on November 30 (38 weeks five days gestation) and then surgery to remove the cancer and my entire thyroid on December 13. The surgeon described the surgery as tedious and estimated that it would take about three hours. Your prayers for him and me would be much appreciated. A recent ultrasound of my neck showed that I do have cancer in some lymph nodes in my neck which means it has spread a little further than we had hoped. The surgeon will take those lymph nodes in the surgery. Testing following the surgery to stage the cancer will determine if I have to go through radiation.

Overall I would say I am doing well. I am continuing to work three, twelve hour shifts per week as an ER nurse. Those shifts are becoming more and more challenging, but I am trying to work as long as I am able. We recognize that December is going to be a challenging month but we are surrounded by friends and family willing to help us. We are also of course looking forward to welcoming our baby girl into this world and introducing her to her very sweet big brother (Zander, age tw0). Thanks again for the thoughts, prayers and cards. The outpouring of love we have received during this unexpected set of circumstances has really helped to carry us through. My husband Nate and I are both so appreciative.

With love, Janna

Janna Jones

847 S Campbell Ave

Springfield, MO 65806