Saw the Docs

I've been a bit busy and it has been hard to update. Seems like there is always something going on.

First, we saw both John's surgeon and oncologist on Tuesday. All went well, or perhaps as expected. The surgeon released John and felt he was doing well. The oncologist gave us the next chemo regimen, which will begin on Thursday, October 16. He will have 6-8 treatments, with one occurring every two weeks. If he stays on schedule and tolerates everything well, he will finish on January 22. This will be a long haul for us. Chemo is hard enough but with having just finished his last regimen on August 21 and having such an extensive and painful surgery on Sept. 11, this will not be an easy go. But, we know we'll make it through.

Deuteronomy 31:8
The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

We are delighted to have John's parents from CA, Bob and Joyce, parked in our driveway in their home on wheels. It is nice to have them there after a four year absence and Joyce seems to be doing very well - in spite of catching an Ohio cold.

PAM'S RANT - As a Christian, I'm ashamed to say it is hard for me to "keep a stuff upper lip" all the time. In other words, my faith waivers and I sometimes feel like I'm spinning out of control. Here is my advice to you, to help folks like me...PLEASE DON'T say with a gloomy expression, "Good luck with that." Luck is not involved. Prayer, focus on God's grace, diligent medical care, good nutrition, restful nights, positive support, caring and loving family/friends, and some semblance of control in at least a few areas of one's life, are what is involved. None of this has anything to do with luck - just lots of faith and lots of hard work. (PS - You wouldn't believe the number of medical personnel who used the good luck line on us! I mean, get a clue, people!)

Also, don't shy away from people who are facing serious medical situations or are hurting. People avoid us. It sucks. If it helps, practice something positive and encouraging to say beforehand. If you say you're praying for someone in need, then do it! Even a quick prayer is better than none. We know of someone who lost their son when he fell from a roof and people avoid them too. Hurting and grief are part of life. We can pretend they aren't there for our own comfort, but it is so much easier for the hurting or grieving person to have a brother to walk the path with.

Sorry, I just had to get that off my chest.

I hope you have peace in your heart today.