The past two days have been filled with tests, doctor appointments, a colonoscopy, encouraging texts, prayers and an overall peace. God’s presence is always close by during my visits to MD Anderson and that brought a calm during my appointments this time. As said in previous posts, the nearness of God is our greatest good. This is certainly true for me.

At the end of all the visits, we were told that my scans were clear, the blood work looked good and the colonoscopy revealed nothing concerning (one small polyp and a marble from my childhood)…just kidding about the marble. To their knowledge, no cancer. However, we are scheduled to come back in three months (July). Our rock star liver surgeon told us that the three month rhythm of visiting MD Anderson will continue for a couple more years. The reoccurrence of stage 4 colon cancer is high enough that they want to keep an eye on me. Actually, I think they just enjoy seeing Mean Jean on a regular basis.

I am thankful for your prayers, encouragement and support. It’s funny, when I go into appointments I feel like I take all of you with me. When I started the prep process for my CT Scan during this visit (which usually surfaces anxiety), I felt comfort knowing I had hundreds of you with me. That is, until I had to strip down to get into my gown. Then I got a little conscientious about having you guys in the room. When I completed the CT scan, I realized this was actually the first time I did not have anxiety during the test. Thanks for being there.

I always leave MD Anderson with a bigger heart for those who are suffering and for the people that care for those who struggle. Throughout my appointments, I encounter people experiencing significant difficulties and I offer a soft prayer just under my breath, “Lord have mercy.” I also interact with people who act compassionately toward those in need. I appreciate their willingness to give, to help, to serve, to touch, and to bless. Whether they know it or not, they are instruments of God’s grace.

As we depart, we are filled with gratitude knowing that God is near, our friends are close by and our desire to be present with those who struggle is increasing.