"The doctor called today and it is cancer, so therefore God has purpose for this in our lives. I'm ready and confident that Christ will guide us and He will be what we need as we need it every step of the way. We have been given an opportunity to walk out our faith step by step.
My life verse has always been, 2 Cor. 7 But we hold this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing power may be of God and not from us. 8 We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained; perplexed, but not driven to despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed; 10 always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our body. 11 For we who live are constantly being given up to death for the sake of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may be manifested in our mortal flesh. Thank you everyone for your prayers and words of encouragement and please continue to pray for Father's will through this!"
We are using CaringBridge again to keep everyone updated on our latest journey.
June 12, 2020 – We have been waiting on the results of the pet scan from last week. George has been experiencing chest pain even though the lungs were clear of cancer. Dr. Brown told us that the same non small cell cancer has spread outside of the lungs into his chest. We will see the oncologist for further information and treatment options.
June 19, 2020 - Dr. Tanna had just seen George several months ago for his yearly followup and he was doing very well. Today the news was not what we wanted to hear.
There is a 2x2 inch tumor that has attached itself to the sternum and the ribs which is the cause of the chest pain. It is in the muscle of the chest wall and has eroded and damaged several ribs. No wonder he was in pain! She kept asking him how he had been working and walking around without a lot of pain. The cancer is very aggressive and high risk of moving to other parts of his body. It is stage 4 and inoperable. She wants him to start radiation immediately to block the pathways for growing elsewhere and to alleviate the pain it is causing him.
That afternoon he went to work and I cried! There were so many questions I still had but couldn’t ask. Neal helped us both that day and I am so grateful for his guidance to ask other questions.
June 25, 2020 – Dr. Rao, radiologist, was very optimistic and has George scheduled Monday, 6/29, for a brain scan and more scans of the tumor so that radiation can begin immediately. He will be having 33 treatments today, Monday – Friday.
We left his office with much hope. He will be able to drive himself to the radiology appointments as long as he can. Dr. Rao told us that this aggressive radiation cannot cure the cancer but can stop it from growing and moving to other areas. We see the oncologist again Wednesday to discuss her chemotherapy plan as well.
George has quit working as the pain has increased under his right arm down his side. These are the nerve pathways from the damaged ribs and where the tumor is located.
We are trusting God moment by moment. We have cried, laughed, pray, talk with family and friends and are extremely grateful for each of you. The cards, calls, texts, food and PRAYERS are so appreciated. Everyone - family, friends, work - have been so encouraging.
What do we need right now? Prayers, encouragement and your love. We do not know what each day brings, yet we know WHO controls each day! Proverbs 18:10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe.
Prayer requests: - We have been in “hurry up and wait” mode the past few weeks. Patience as we learn the treatment plan and he begins the chemo and radiation.
- That the scan tomorrow reveals no cancer in the brain.
- If you would be willing to drive him to treatment if needed, please let me know. I am working full time still and know I will need some helping hands, right now I just don’t know exactly what!
- Notes of encouragement to George. Visitation is difficult during the COVID outbreak.
At work I am able to listen to worship music. If you have any suggestions, please send me your favorites!
