Never let your circumstance determine the presence of God

I really think I should consider a job in the medical profession! I told everyone WEEKS ago that Papa Vern has Stage 4 cancer, and everyone said I was being a debbie downer, in my defense... I'm not a downer, I am a realist. And truth be told, the realist in me is very frustrated. I am frustrated because I feel like everything is taking too long... Papa Vern was diagnosed in January, and its now February and we are just finding out the stage and getting a treatment plan together... Yes, I should become a dr. based on my ability to google and webmd faster than any dr. thus far has come up with answers...

Papa Vern has a dr. appointment with radiation oncologist, Dr. Elhani tomorrow. Radiation should last 7-8 weeks and will be done simultaneously with chemotherapy. Side effects from the radiation will include a breathing tube, and probably feeding tube as well. These are not permanent, but more of an inconvenience. (I guess a feeding tube makes DIET dog food seem not that bad!) It is also going to be hard for Papa Vern to talk in the next couple of weeks. If I had thumbs, I would teach him to text... Better leave that to the humans... If you don't have Papa Vern's cell phone number, feel free to contact Nana Bebe, Sean or Amanda to get the number and send him some love! We are also accepting all forms of cards, scripture, jokes and other inspirational material...

Chemo & Radiation will be done at the Texas Oncology Center in Lewisville, same place that Nana Bebe went to. The staff there is very friendly, Nana Bebe and Papa Vern feel comfortable using them again.

A chest scan and blood work still need to be taken to determine if the cancer is centrally located or has spread. Surgery is a last resort. The dr. thinks that with the chemo and radiation all tumors should be taken care of, but only time will tell.

Things to pray for:
1. For the doctors to work swiftly and accurately
2. Minimal side effects to chemo and radiation
3. Cancer is centrally located and will be knocked out completely for total healing
4. Papa Vern and Nana Bebe's spirits, that they will continue to be comforted and find peace
5. Lowes has told Papa Vern not to worry about his job, however its still a concern. Please pray for financial peace through this time.

Papa Vern has been a loyal employee to Lowes for many years now and is a value to them. We are thankful that they are truly being understanding and accommodating. Should you have any home improvement needs, shop at Lowes. Let's support them while they support Papa Vern.

In the book of Genesis, the Lord was with Joseph through adversity after adversity. I have no doubt that the Lord is with Papa Vern through each step of the healing process, and will continue to be with him through adversity.

"Never let your circumstance determine the presence of God." -Chris Plekenpol, author of Faith in the Fog of War

Much Love,
Harley