Treatment Update

April 23, 2014

We have a little mixed news from this week's test results.  The labs were excellent.  The platelets are in the "normal" range at 208.

The MRI showed a 4 mm "spot."  Not definitively anything yet, but a "spot" worth watching.  As a result, the next MRI will be in six weeks.

Chemo (temador) will be resumed at a lower dosage since the previous platelet issue was quite serious.

We are reminded of a verse we were given at the beginning of this journey to seek divine guidance.  The decisions are not cut and dried and we desperately need the power of His Holy Spirit as we try to assess the best of various alternatives.  We find solace in Isaiah 30: 21-22 that states:

Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” 

We are constantly reminded of his caring embrace of us as we go through this trial and that he is showing us the way.  

Are You Kidding Me?

Are You Kidding Me?

April 2, 2014

Did you know that as a believer in Jesus we are presently---that’s real time--- seated with Jesus in the heavenly realms?  See Ephesians 2:4-6a.

But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.  And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus….

This statement of reality has been an uplifting revelation for me as I think about death. I don’t have to die to join Jesus.  In the here and now I can experience life with Jesus.   Further proof we are living in privileged space.  

Update on Condition:

Last week my platelets dropped to 6.  Normal is 150 to 400.  They’ve been in steady decline and as a result, I underwent a transfusion of platelets.   Today, testing showed the platelets had climbed to 25.  Further chemo has been suspended.  For now we wait for the platelets count to rebound and what further treatment is possible.  We anticipated treatment could result in complications.  However,  I feel fine except for fatigue.   Thank you all for your prayers for Mary and me.  We see the working of His Spirit daily in the strength He extends to both of us.