...The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. James 5:16
Thank you for the outpouring of prayers and support. It is awesome to know that my dad is being lifted up to the Great Physician from hearts around the globe! This picture was taken 4 days before Christmas, and while my dad was weak and pale, he could still function normally. I can only give my uneducated, simple version of what's going on. In November 2003 (right before our dossier for K4 went to China) he was diagnosed with malignant melanoma, already in his lymph system. He underwent radical surgery, radiation and chemotherapy which seemed to eliminate the cancer. However, a few months later it was found in an inoperable site near his shoulder, collar bone area. Since that time he has undergone treatment to retard the growth of the existing cancer. In October it was found in previous surgical sites and had metastasized to his brain. Roughly 30 days later, right after Thanksgiving, he underwent a procedure using a cyberknife to try and retard the brain tumor, which is located behind his optic nerve. Now, 30+ days post procedure, he began experiencing mental confusion and seizures. Despite our earlier thinking that there is a surgical "fix" for this, we now know, from MRI, that his condition is caused by swelling and pressure on his brain, which is a potential side effect of the procedure. It is like a bruise in that the only cure is "time." He is much like a stroke patient. He can't communicate clearly and mutters meaningless words and phrases, he is uncomfortable and in pain, he can't understand simple commands, can't walk and doesn't recognize his loved ones. The good news is the brain tumor has not grown and there is no indication of new cancer or brain damage from the seizures. He will remain in ICU under constant care until he shows signs of improvement. As a family, we pray the Lord will grant him time to heal, extended moments of clear thinking and the ability to recognize those who love him so much. Most of all, we pray that whatever the state of his mind, the Lord is working in his heart so that he can make a sound decision for salvation. Thank you for joining us in prayer! Kuyler wrote these words on a card we took to Dad yesterday:
"Granddad, I know you're a tough guy, so you need to get better. I want to talk to you about all the times we fed cattle, drove around in the truck and you gave me ice cream for lunch."
Thank you for the outpouring of prayers and support. It is awesome to know that my dad is being lifted up to the Great Physician from hearts around the globe! This picture was taken 4 days before Christmas, and while my dad was weak and pale, he could still function normally. I can only give my uneducated, simple version of what's going on. In November 2003 (right before our dossier for K4 went to China) he was diagnosed with malignant melanoma, already in his lymph system. He underwent radical surgery, radiation and chemotherapy which seemed to eliminate the cancer. However, a few months later it was found in an inoperable site near his shoulder, collar bone area. Since that time he has undergone treatment to retard the growth of the existing cancer. In October it was found in previous surgical sites and had metastasized to his brain. Roughly 30 days later, right after Thanksgiving, he underwent a procedure using a cyberknife to try and retard the brain tumor, which is located behind his optic nerve. Now, 30+ days post procedure, he began experiencing mental confusion and seizures. Despite our earlier thinking that there is a surgical "fix" for this, we now know, from MRI, that his condition is caused by swelling and pressure on his brain, which is a potential side effect of the procedure. It is like a bruise in that the only cure is "time." He is much like a stroke patient. He can't communicate clearly and mutters meaningless words and phrases, he is uncomfortable and in pain, he can't understand simple commands, can't walk and doesn't recognize his loved ones. The good news is the brain tumor has not grown and there is no indication of new cancer or brain damage from the seizures. He will remain in ICU under constant care until he shows signs of improvement. As a family, we pray the Lord will grant him time to heal, extended moments of clear thinking and the ability to recognize those who love him so much. Most of all, we pray that whatever the state of his mind, the Lord is working in his heart so that he can make a sound decision for salvation. Thank you for joining us in prayer! Kuyler wrote these words on a card we took to Dad yesterday:
"Granddad, I know you're a tough guy, so you need to get better. I want to talk to you about all the times we fed cattle, drove around in the truck and you gave me ice cream for lunch."
Update:
Dad is showing slight signs of improvement this afternoon. He has short, though not continuous, moments of recognition and understanding of simple commands.
4 comments:
Connie, I'm thankful for his slight improvement. Please know that I am praying for your father and your family.
Jill
Oh my the picture of Kayden and your dad is precious. Hold on to the love of an inocent child..... you may not be the child anymore but you are his child, and know that he loves you too. You know that we are praying for you dad and most important his salvation. Please let us help you in any way possible. Love Always, April
Connie,
We are praying for you, your family and for your dad. We are glad to hear that there appears to be a slight improvement. Please let us know if we can help in any way.
Brad and Kim
Hi Connie - I lurk checking to see when your sweet boy will arrive home, but I read about your dad and just wanted you to feel the prayers of yet another warrior. Hoping the improvements continue.
Sending hugs and love your way,
Heather (Oct DTC)
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