First of all, I want to thank the many people who have written us, saying that they are praying for Susette and our family.  You can't know how very much your prayers mean to all of us.  We honestly believe that this is a spiritual battle and the prayers of the saints are critical for victory.

Susette has been diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma.  This comes as a shock to all of us and has impacted each of us in different ways.  But our reliance on the "Rock of our Salvation" has held us together and is providing the supernatural strength to help us endure and pursue victory in His name.

In the next week, we will be returning to Southern California for further testing, staging and treatment.  We don't know how long this will take.  Everything, at this point, depends on how much the cancer has spread.

During this time, we would appreciate your continued prayers for Susette and our family.  We would also appreciate your prayers for the children and staff at the orphanage.   Our outstanding and capable staff at Maison de Lumiere will be carrying on the day-to-day operational activities at the orphanage in our absence.

Today, we told the children at the orphanage what was happening, which evolved into a powerful prayer and worship symphony that I'm certain rocked the heavenlies.  The children's faith is strong and is a testament to God's mighty work in their lives.   

Thank you for your continued prayers.  We are on the battlefield already cheering our Lord for the victory ahead.

God bless you.

Trusting in Him,

bill Manassero

P.S.  On a very personal note, this is not an easy email to send.  My heart aches.  Susette is the apple of my eye -- the girl of my dreams.  The thought of anything ever happening to her hits me too hard to even write in this email.  i love her so very very much.  So, if you see me, and i am not being the pillar of strength i want to be for her, please shoot up a quick prayer for me.  i would really appreciate that.  God bless and thank you.