New Release
THIS IS MY CUP
Our Faith Journey Through Leukemia
In September 2017, our world crashed when I, Forest, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Over the next several years, I experienced numerous chemotherapy sessions, radiation treatments, a stem cell transplant, many side effects, infections, and other cancer. There were moments when I felt near death. Despite these difficulties, our Christian faith was a source of strength and hope. This book, inspired by my wife, Pamela, is a personal account of our journey; mine as the patient and Pamela’s as the caregiver. The book is informative and filled with personal accounts and valuable resources for anyone interested in learning more about leukemia, caregiving, and how faith plays a vital role in recovery. Each chapter is chronologically written to reflect the progress of our journey. We refer to scripture and reflections on God’s presence during this time. It is a reminder that there is always hope, even in the darkest moments.
Forest Holmes grew up in a small tourist town in Michigan on the shores of Lake Huron. His love for life on the water led him to enlist in the US Navy and spent his time in the Naval Nuclear Power Program. While in the Navy, he served on a conventional-powered fast frigate and a nuclear-powered submarine. His final duty assignment was as an instructor at the Naval Reactors Facility in Idaho. In 1985 he was honorably discharged. The skills learned in the Navy Nuclear Power Program were directly transferrable to his new job at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) as a Health Physics Technician. After several years he transitioned into emergency management and participated in standing up a comprehensive emergency management program at INL. His role in emergency management varied over the remainder of his 33-year career at INL.
In 2017 he was diagnosed with Leukemia. During his time in chemotherapy and recovery, he found that many lessons learned in the Navy on a submarine helped him endure the time in hospitals and recovery at home. Following a successful stem cell transplant and recovery period, he briefly returned to work at the INL before contracting a Nocardia infection in the lungs and brain. This infection and the side effects from the treatment protocols ultimately led to his retirement from the INL in 2018.
Forest is a dedicated Christian devotional writer at Grace Lutheran Church in Pocatello, ID. In retirement, he enjoys researching and studying the Word of God. Through his devotional writings, Forest can share His love of Jesus with his fellow Christians. His next project is a Christian devotional book.
Forest, his wife Pamela, and their Siamese cat, Hobbes, live in scenic southeast Idaho. Forest and Pamela enjoy bicycling, kayaking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
Forest Holmes, Writer and Leukemia Survivor
Pamela Holmes is a highly skilled nurse and healthcare professional who has significantly contributed to the nursing community. Born and raised in Pocatello, Idaho, Pamela has always had a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of her state. After completing her Baccalaureate in Nursing, she worked as an Emergency, Trauma, and Intensive Care nurse, providing critical care to thousands of patients.
In 1983, Pamela became one of Idaho’s first flight nurses, a role she held for over 28 years. She was not only a dedicated flight nurse but also a nurse educator, teaching numerous cardiac and trauma courses to fellow nurses. Pamela’s passion for leadership led her to earn a Master of Science Degree in Healthcare Administration.
Pamela’s expertise in nursing and healthcare also extends to the legal field, where she worked as a legal nurse consultant, providing invaluable assistance in legal cases.
In 2011, Pamela took on the role of Nurse Case Manager, where she found great satisfaction in helping patients and families navigate the healthcare system. Her experience as a nurse proved invaluable when her husband was diagnosed with Leukemia in 2017. Pamela took on the role of his caregiver and provided him with exceptional care throughout his treatment and recovery. Her faith never faltered, and she remained a pillar of strength for her husband and family.
Pamela retired from nursing and healthcare in 2021. She enjoys traveling, bicycling, kayaking, and spending time with loved ones.
Pamela Holmes, RN and Caregiver
Reader Reviews
Chris J.
