Way back in the seventies, while we were in missionary training a popular song was, The Choice is Mine. It captured our hearts, much as it did others’ hearts, and was heard repeatedly at least in the fellowship circles in which we were involved. That phrase came back to me yesterday (Tuesday) in a big way as I met with my radiation oncologist for my end of treatment exit appointment. “The choice is really yours on how you respond to this treatment” was his comment. Of course, he meant that a positive reaction would go a long way toward my recovery from the cancer treatment (Which begs the question, “Why should we have to recover from treatment?”). That those who take a positive approach do much better than those who don’t.
So pray with us that we would take a positive approach but that the positive approach would be to continue to trust God completely regardless of what might lie ahead. We realize that there may well be some truth to positive thoughts, etc. but also realize that our lives are in the hands of the Great Physician.
Here is where we stand in our journey through the cancer wars:
1. Yesterday I finished my last of 33 radiation treatments.
2. The side effects to this point are not too severe. Some definite weaknesses in the pelvic region where the radiation took place. Also a persistent feeling of fatigue and some lack of incentive.
3. We wait now for thirty days (July 30th is the next appointment) before returning to the doctor. This will give some time for physical healing to take place and give enough time for tests to be deemed accurate and verify whether the radiation was effective or not.
4. So we wait, rest, and recover for the next month.
5. Be assured, we are encouraged in completing this step! Radiation can be a daily occupation for which the compensation is not always of agreeable nature.
Pray for:
• Patience!
• The will to remain active. Being active and pursuing life is deemed very high on the list of critical helps. There are limitations including the normal “Don’t over do it!” precautionary statements but a need to find the power to engage in what might be termed ordinary activities is critical.
Thanks:
1. To all who have sent cards and emails of encouragement. During this past year we have heard from people just down the road, as well as from people on six different continents. We are still waiting to hear from Antarctica!
2. To all those who have called to chat. I don’t think I am the best chatter but it is good to hear your voices and Cathy usually fills in the gaps.
3. To those who have helped us financially. Individuals have helped out as well as churches. We never know where the help might come from and, here’s to let each of you know that all has been appreciated! Although our insurance pays the majority of our medical there are so many hidden costs but the Lord continues to amaze us with His provision. An example, a pastor called to insist that he come by to give us something. I tried to talk him out of it since he would have to go miles out of his way to come by our house. When he arrived he handed me a check from the church that I know had to come from people that were already stretched beyond their own financial limits. Thanks!
4. A real praise was the gift of closeness and seclusion. Let me explain. We had been driving 156 miles round trip each day. One week we stayed at my nephew’s place while they were away on vacation which cut our trip down by two-thirds. Before that week was over, some friends called and loaned us their cabin in the country that is only a few miles from the hospital.
I will close with the following quote from Romans 11:33 – “O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!”
Thanks again for all you do! Arnie & Cathy
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