A Christian singer and songwriter, who has been bringing Bible based songs to children for over five decades, recently received a rare cancer diagnosis.
Back in May, Mary Rice Hopkins went in for what she thought was just a routine ENT appointment. However, the doctor ended up finding a concerning lump on the back of her neck.
"Not long after, while travelling overseas, another lump appeared on the front," said Hopkins in a post on Facebook. "From that point until July 7, I’ve been through two biopsies, countless tests, blood draws, and—just this past Tuesday—a bone marrow biopsy."
On July 7, with her husband by her side, Hopkins was diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.
"This has been one of the hardest things I’ve faced. But I also know—I am not facing it alone," said Hopkins. "God’s grace has truly carried me, and thankfully, prognosis and plans have moved quickly."
Hopkins says there is some good news in all of this. She says she has been accepted into a promising immunotherapy clinical trial at City of Hope in Duarte.
"The doctors are hopeful, and the early results are encouraging," Hopkins explained. "I’ll receive 24 injections total, along with a daily pill. I’ll have weekly treatments for 6 weeks, then the schedule becomes less frequent over the next 2.5 years."
Hopkins says she knows that God's got this and says she has felt all of the prayers from friends, family and strangers afar.
"I'll be honest—this isn’t how I imagined being “used by God.” But I’m here, trusting that He will bring purpose through it all."
Even though Hopkins is facing a tough road ahead of her, she says God has shown up in many meaningful ways already.
"Before any of this began, both of our kids were able to move near us. Truly a miracle I never expected," said Hopkins. "We had a full house during a remodel. I can’t even begin to describe what a gift it is to have them close now. God knew I’d needed them near."
Just before her diagnosis, Rice was preparing to launch a refreshed version of her website and YouTube channel, filled with new animations and songs. She is now asking listeners to share and subscribe and share her page.
"It’s never been about money—it’s always been about sharing hope, joy, and God’s love."
Hopkins is asking for continued prayers as she moves forward in her battle.
"Your prayers mean more to me than I can ever express."