Family and Friends - I have a number of updates on genetic testing, liver testing and colonoscopy results. First, I have an unexpected result from some very specific genetic testing. I have, through genetic testing, a disease called Hereditary Hemochromatosis. This is an iron overload disease which in my case puts my liver at risk of having too much iron stored in it. Although my iron levels are currently in normal ranges there have been past tests showing high levels of iron. Today I had a liver scan to identify how much damage has been done (extent of cirrhosis) due to liver scaring. Unfortunately, I had too much surgical scarring for the scan to do an adequate scanning of my liver. More testing and other imaging will likely be done. From my colonoscopy, I had four polyps removed with two polyps testing out as Advanced Adenomatous Polyps. These polyps have changed my schedule of colonoscopy to an annual schedule. I am thankful that these new polyps were not cancerous.  I am also thankful for my new gastro doctor who has been aggressive in ordering testing. I now see a fuller picture of how at risk my liver is. The main day by day issue of fatigue that I have is likely in part connected to Hemochromatosis and low Testostorone. Unfortunately treating low testosterone could increase negative hemochromatosis symptoms. I am asking for specific prayers against discouragement.  I want to continue to be hopeful during this season of health concerns. Also, for prayers for hope and healing for all of my family.

Bittersweet - Sometimes life and health journeys can become more bitter than sweet. As I write this day, I am remembering the most bitter day in human history - Good Friday. Our Lord suffered indescribable pain and suffering as he died on the cross. On Jesus hung the curse of our sins - He carried this weight - a weight without measure that no one else could ever bear. He was crushed under the load of our sins. At the end of this most bitter death - He spoke words of promise - a promise realized on Resurrection Sunday - It Is Finished! He had accomplished what He came for - Jesus reconciled all of us to a loving God. When He rose from the dead a sweetness overwhelmed a broken world. There will never be a day that was so sweet. There will never be 48 hours of such deep bitterness becoming uncontained sweetness.  The day is coming for all of us when bitterness will be a memory and sweetness will fill all of our endless days. I am so very blessed - blessed beyond my temporal life circumstances. I am so very blessed by your prayers! Be Hopeful!

He Is Risen - He is Risen Indeed!

Brian