Dear family and friends:
Here we are, a few days before Christmas, in Dunkirk, Maryland, across the Potomac from Alexandria, Virginia.
Nunc dimitus, Lord, but not yet! I have had such a good several days, that I could almost say, "Lord now let your servant depart in peace!" For my eyes have seen, my ears have heard, my hands have touched, and my tongue has tasted what I take such delight in, that I could almost say, "It doesn't get any better than this; take me now, Jesus!" I won't because I know that the best is yet to come - our Lord Jesus!
I have, nonetheless, within the last ten days seen all of my children (except one) and all of my grandchildren (but one) and the wonders and beauty of the countryside between Orlando and the D.C. area. And, while the local inhabitants are weary of it, I find the crisp wind and weather refreshing (in limited exposures).
And just last Sunday I heard the most glorious music at the Cathedral of St Luke; the anticipatory anthems of Advent and the blending of voices in awesome harmony. I heard the cheery greetings of folks, soon to be reunited with their distant relatives, greeting me as family.
I touched the face and held the hand of my beautiful bride, Amy, with whom I have been married now forty-seven years; on December 21st, we celebrated our anniversary in an amusing tradition, a feast, on the road, at McDonald's. I look into those wondrous blue eyes and marvel at her love, courage, tenacity, and patience. What a gift from God!
AND, I have had three of my most favorite meals in five days: Chinese food at the Ming Bistro (Orlando); a dozen fried oysters (at Fuller's in Fayetteville, N.C.); and chorizo and eggs and Mexican beans, at our eldest daughter Katie's, in Dunkirk! Take me now Jesus!.... but not yet. Christmas dinner of turkey and all the trimmings are only two days away. Yummmm!
And most especially, I am privileged to have been through an extensive medical procedure not available not so long ago, and marvelously healed with very few side effects or inconvenience. Thank you Jesus!
Yes, all of this is privilege. From the sight, to sound, to touch, to taste, to healing. It is truly Grace: undeserved and unmerited. I could understandably say, "Nunc dimitus," except that there are so many who do not know that Grace that I am privileged to experience. I hear the Lord's voice gently saying, "As you have received, give."
May all of you know the miracle of the Incarnation and the glorious truth that unmerited and undeserved, Grace has come to us! Gloria! Alleluia! Merry Christmas! God has blessed us, every one!
Your brother in Christ,
Dick
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Blog #37 12/16/2010 - Witness the Good News! Alleluia!
Dear Friends and Family:
I hate to always be making excuses for being so irregular; but somethig went kaflooey with either my computer or server or something else, and I got knocked off the blogspot and couldn't get back onto the net to make any additons since late November. It took Amy (blessed be the same) to work with the thing and get me a new password so that I could continue.
And this is the latest news concerning the multiple myeloma: Yesterday's visit to the doctor revealed that if my "M-spike" numbers (that has something to do with a measurable amount of malignant cells in a blood sample) continue to fall as they have recently, we can use the terms "complete response" (to the stem cell transplant) and "remission." Those are terms we have never heard him use in regards to multiple myeloma. Praised be Jesus! Alleluia! Yea God! and Hot Tamales!
We fairly floated out of the office. But as we did so, another couple came out with us. In the elevator, I asked if a stem cell transplant was in the offing. The woman said with sad eyes, "Yes."
I responded, "Well, I'm at day 131 after my transplant," swelling a little in pride (as though it were my doing).
Both she and her husband responded happily, "But you look so good! You look terrific!" I swelled a little more. They were so pleased to know the good news that the procedure can work, and without that witness would probably have born some of the same dread and concern I had.
As we walked into the parking lot, Amy (the real evangelist in the outfit) turned back to the woman and said, "Be sure to take Jesus with you!" The lady beaned and said, "Oh I always do!"
Even so, she and her husband needed that witness; she needed to hear good news.
That's true especially in this season prior to Christmas, even among the believers. Be sure to share the witness of the presence of Jesus to those who may already profess Him as Lord. These are difficult times and the words of encouragement concerning His presence - Emmanuel - God with us - have never been more important than now. Jesus IS the reason for the season. Share that in every encounter you have, every conversation - especially with clerks and salespersons who often get the worst of the season.
Have a blessed Christmas! I have already been given my Christmas present: such good news! And, thanks to you all (all y'all) I have been receiving the benefit of your prayers and encouragement for months! Prayer works! Keep sharing the Good News!
Much love in Christ Jesus,
Dick
I hate to always be making excuses for being so irregular; but somethig went kaflooey with either my computer or server or something else, and I got knocked off the blogspot and couldn't get back onto the net to make any additons since late November. It took Amy (blessed be the same) to work with the thing and get me a new password so that I could continue.
And this is the latest news concerning the multiple myeloma: Yesterday's visit to the doctor revealed that if my "M-spike" numbers (that has something to do with a measurable amount of malignant cells in a blood sample) continue to fall as they have recently, we can use the terms "complete response" (to the stem cell transplant) and "remission." Those are terms we have never heard him use in regards to multiple myeloma. Praised be Jesus! Alleluia! Yea God! and Hot Tamales!
We fairly floated out of the office. But as we did so, another couple came out with us. In the elevator, I asked if a stem cell transplant was in the offing. The woman said with sad eyes, "Yes."
I responded, "Well, I'm at day 131 after my transplant," swelling a little in pride (as though it were my doing).
Both she and her husband responded happily, "But you look so good! You look terrific!" I swelled a little more. They were so pleased to know the good news that the procedure can work, and without that witness would probably have born some of the same dread and concern I had.
As we walked into the parking lot, Amy (the real evangelist in the outfit) turned back to the woman and said, "Be sure to take Jesus with you!" The lady beaned and said, "Oh I always do!"
Even so, she and her husband needed that witness; she needed to hear good news.
That's true especially in this season prior to Christmas, even among the believers. Be sure to share the witness of the presence of Jesus to those who may already profess Him as Lord. These are difficult times and the words of encouragement concerning His presence - Emmanuel - God with us - have never been more important than now. Jesus IS the reason for the season. Share that in every encounter you have, every conversation - especially with clerks and salespersons who often get the worst of the season.
Have a blessed Christmas! I have already been given my Christmas present: such good news! And, thanks to you all (all y'all) I have been receiving the benefit of your prayers and encouragement for months! Prayer works! Keep sharing the Good News!
Much love in Christ Jesus,
Dick
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Blog #36 11/23/2010 Prepare ye the way
Dear family and friends:
Since my liberation on day #100, an incredible of week has just gone by, and the "season" has just begun! A gathering of clergy and lay, from arch-bishops, bishops, and priests to highly motivated laymen and women gathered at a meeting entitled "Communion Partners" for two days last week to speak of bonds of unity in our Lord Jesus; of hopes and challenges, strengths and needs. We in the United States speak with so much fear and anxiety, while third world bishops, in the very midst of physical oppression and danger, speak with such confidence and hope. One comment I heard was, "Americans run through their garbage disposals, in a week, enough food to feed the nation of Nigeria for a month."
We have so much to be thankful for, and yet we often think of ourselves as bereft of what we once had and deserve to have again. We are much like the Israelites bemoaning the memory of the bread, onions, and leeks they once had in days of slavery back in Egypt.
The week ended with a retreat at our conference center whereat Bp. Alden Hathaway spoke of leadership exhibited in the book of Nehemiah. The whole project begins with the leader acknowledging the wretchedness of the situation and his own sin, and lamenting with a broken heart. Through our sin, our own grievious sin, we have laid waste to the Lord's beautiful plan, and we should grieve that reality and repent.
Then follows deep and serious conversation with the Lord to begin the restoration. I believe that we are in a restoration process....it is the season of preparation for a great repentence, revitalization, repair, and restoration.
I don't think that these two gatherings I attended, just prior to Advent, were coincidental. The season of repentance and repair is upon me, and I don't think I am alone. Let us all, as the scripture encourages us, "Prepare (ye) the way." The season is soon upon us! Alleluia!
Have a glorious Thanksgiving. The Lord is truly merciful and bounteous!
Your brother in Christ,
Dick
Since my liberation on day #100, an incredible of week has just gone by, and the "season" has just begun! A gathering of clergy and lay, from arch-bishops, bishops, and priests to highly motivated laymen and women gathered at a meeting entitled "Communion Partners" for two days last week to speak of bonds of unity in our Lord Jesus; of hopes and challenges, strengths and needs. We in the United States speak with so much fear and anxiety, while third world bishops, in the very midst of physical oppression and danger, speak with such confidence and hope. One comment I heard was, "Americans run through their garbage disposals, in a week, enough food to feed the nation of Nigeria for a month."
We have so much to be thankful for, and yet we often think of ourselves as bereft of what we once had and deserve to have again. We are much like the Israelites bemoaning the memory of the bread, onions, and leeks they once had in days of slavery back in Egypt.
The week ended with a retreat at our conference center whereat Bp. Alden Hathaway spoke of leadership exhibited in the book of Nehemiah. The whole project begins with the leader acknowledging the wretchedness of the situation and his own sin, and lamenting with a broken heart. Through our sin, our own grievious sin, we have laid waste to the Lord's beautiful plan, and we should grieve that reality and repent.
Then follows deep and serious conversation with the Lord to begin the restoration. I believe that we are in a restoration process....it is the season of preparation for a great repentence, revitalization, repair, and restoration.
I don't think that these two gatherings I attended, just prior to Advent, were coincidental. The season of repentance and repair is upon me, and I don't think I am alone. Let us all, as the scripture encourages us, "Prepare (ye) the way." The season is soon upon us! Alleluia!
Have a glorious Thanksgiving. The Lord is truly merciful and bounteous!
Your brother in Christ,
Dick
Friday, November 19, 2010
Blog #35 11/19/2010 More Praise the Lord Results
Dear Family and Friends:
Part of the Day #100 assesment had not been endured at my last posting. The most recent "trial" was a six hour toasting in the MRI machine. The noise is terrific! I had those little spunge ear plugs stuffed so far into my ears that they were about to come out of my nose! Even so, the "clunky-whang-whang-whang" is almost hypnotic. I think I've already given you my recipe for making that experience tolerable, the last time I had the lengthy MRI: I went back to my earliest memory and came up through grandparents, earliest childhood friends, schools, cub and boy scouts, camping trips, band trips, grade school, junior high, high school, college, fraternity, on through to the present. Six hours in the machine lets you remember a lot!
This time, since the exercise was not unique, it was harder to do, so I went to the "Lord is with you" (Emmanuel) times I can clearly recall and I dwelt with the Lord in those very wonderful occasions.
Oh, have I been blessed through my life....more than I deserve. One of my greatest blessings has been this encounter with multiple myeloma. Had it not been diagnosed and knocked me out of parish ministry in a very frustrating situation, I would never have come to Central Florida. Here, I have been nurtured in a thousand ways which I was able to recall as I encountered my faithful Lord again. I will count this last MRI as one of those blessings found in an unexpected place.
And, one of my greatest blessings is my beloved wife Amy. Her strength is awesomw, not only in faith, but in her tolerence and management of me during these past serveral months. She would get face to face with me and firmly say, "Dick, you KNOW that you can't do that just yet, so stop your whining!" And I would..at least audibly
Then, yesterday we got the MRI results. The doctor said that it revealed a significant reduction of leisons in the pelvic area. Alleluia! Praise the Lord! and Hot tamales! I am convinced I am healed!
Sunday, day #101, we went to the "big" church service at the cathedral where I assisted. Some didn't recognize me with my present "do." My head is now covered with half inch white fuzz, growing in all directions. I have a tuft of hair sprouting in the middle of my dome, growing straight up; periferal hair is lying down, aligned with all points of the compass. I present a kwepie doll appearance, or since it's all white, maybe like a Dairy Queen cone! Some find it endearing, but I'd rather it lay down (which it won't!).
We're off this afternoon to greet and hear our dear friend and former mentor, Bp Alden Hathaway who is speaking at our conference center. What a great servant of the Gospel! And incidentally, he has had his own dealings with multiple myeloma. We will, however, have more to say about Jesus than medical conditions!
Thanks for your prayers...They have really done miracles!
In His love and peace,
Dick
Part of the Day #100 assesment had not been endured at my last posting. The most recent "trial" was a six hour toasting in the MRI machine. The noise is terrific! I had those little spunge ear plugs stuffed so far into my ears that they were about to come out of my nose! Even so, the "clunky-whang-whang-whang" is almost hypnotic. I think I've already given you my recipe for making that experience tolerable, the last time I had the lengthy MRI: I went back to my earliest memory and came up through grandparents, earliest childhood friends, schools, cub and boy scouts, camping trips, band trips, grade school, junior high, high school, college, fraternity, on through to the present. Six hours in the machine lets you remember a lot!
This time, since the exercise was not unique, it was harder to do, so I went to the "Lord is with you" (Emmanuel) times I can clearly recall and I dwelt with the Lord in those very wonderful occasions.
Oh, have I been blessed through my life....more than I deserve. One of my greatest blessings has been this encounter with multiple myeloma. Had it not been diagnosed and knocked me out of parish ministry in a very frustrating situation, I would never have come to Central Florida. Here, I have been nurtured in a thousand ways which I was able to recall as I encountered my faithful Lord again. I will count this last MRI as one of those blessings found in an unexpected place.
And, one of my greatest blessings is my beloved wife Amy. Her strength is awesomw, not only in faith, but in her tolerence and management of me during these past serveral months. She would get face to face with me and firmly say, "Dick, you KNOW that you can't do that just yet, so stop your whining!" And I would..at least audibly
Then, yesterday we got the MRI results. The doctor said that it revealed a significant reduction of leisons in the pelvic area. Alleluia! Praise the Lord! and Hot tamales! I am convinced I am healed!
Sunday, day #101, we went to the "big" church service at the cathedral where I assisted. Some didn't recognize me with my present "do." My head is now covered with half inch white fuzz, growing in all directions. I have a tuft of hair sprouting in the middle of my dome, growing straight up; periferal hair is lying down, aligned with all points of the compass. I present a kwepie doll appearance, or since it's all white, maybe like a Dairy Queen cone! Some find it endearing, but I'd rather it lay down (which it won't!).
We're off this afternoon to greet and hear our dear friend and former mentor, Bp Alden Hathaway who is speaking at our conference center. What a great servant of the Gospel! And incidentally, he has had his own dealings with multiple myeloma. We will, however, have more to say about Jesus than medical conditions!
Thanks for your prayers...They have really done miracles!
In His love and peace,
Dick
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Blog #34 (really) 11/13/2010 Day 100 Whoopie!!
Dear Family and Friends:
This really is day 100 since the stem cell transplant!! Whoopie! We made it! And we are still without internet at the house, so this is once again done from Panera's amidst the dishes, the other "cool" folks who eat and go online.
Our travail with the phone company still goes on since the 1st of November and the "bundle" we have been trying to get out of. The T.V. came to change us out and managed to cut off our phone and our internet. Despite the phone company promises to come and get us set up again (since the 3rd) we are still without phone or internet. We are trying to be Christian about all of this, but sometimes it seems that our "charity" wears a little thin after being promised that a supervisor will call us right back...and nobody has ever called! Nobody! Nada! Zilch! after at least one promise per day since the outset.
But, the Lord is good! Alleluia! I am now officially out of the limited quarentine I've been in and can now move about more freely, and intermingle with "the unwashed." So, I'll go to morning services at the cathedral and assist in the service. Later, Amy and I will attend the annual parish picnic. ( I suppose I should wear a mask just to make some effort not to be exposed to someone with a cold..or worse) Anyway, we're going and I couldn't be more excited and thankful for the Lord's healing!
We are scheduled to be set up again with phone and internet by the 16th....so, God willing, I'll be able to get back to the blog in a more reasonable time. On Thurs, I get some more info about how I'm doing. I know I'm healed...my doctor just needs to catch on!
Much love and thanks for your effective prayers and support,
In Christ,
Dick
This really is day 100 since the stem cell transplant!! Whoopie! We made it! And we are still without internet at the house, so this is once again done from Panera's amidst the dishes, the other "cool" folks who eat and go online.
Our travail with the phone company still goes on since the 1st of November and the "bundle" we have been trying to get out of. The T.V. came to change us out and managed to cut off our phone and our internet. Despite the phone company promises to come and get us set up again (since the 3rd) we are still without phone or internet. We are trying to be Christian about all of this, but sometimes it seems that our "charity" wears a little thin after being promised that a supervisor will call us right back...and nobody has ever called! Nobody! Nada! Zilch! after at least one promise per day since the outset.
But, the Lord is good! Alleluia! I am now officially out of the limited quarentine I've been in and can now move about more freely, and intermingle with "the unwashed." So, I'll go to morning services at the cathedral and assist in the service. Later, Amy and I will attend the annual parish picnic. ( I suppose I should wear a mask just to make some effort not to be exposed to someone with a cold..or worse) Anyway, we're going and I couldn't be more excited and thankful for the Lord's healing!
We are scheduled to be set up again with phone and internet by the 16th....so, God willing, I'll be able to get back to the blog in a more reasonable time. On Thurs, I get some more info about how I'm doing. I know I'm healed...my doctor just needs to catch on!
Much love and thanks for your effective prayers and support,
In Christ,
Dick
Friday, November 5, 2010
Blog #33 11/05/2010 Indeed the Implications & Future
Dear Family and Friends:
When last I was able to go online, I titled that blog with something to do with my medical tests, the results, the implications and the future in light of all this. Since then, we've had a major blow up and disconnect with our server, which was "bundled" with our phone and t.v. We've had a divorce in that relationship and now I'm sitting at Panera's doing my blog. Consequently, I'm off line until our next choice in servers can hook us up next Friday! So, I will be even more irregular in my communication until that gets fixed.
AND in the meantime, we've had an election..so the general title of "The Results, the implications, and the future in light of those results" is indeed appropriate. I think I'll get off now and let Amy have her shot as the internet, with the promise that I'll be back as soon as possible.
Thanks for your patience and your prayers!
Faithfully,
Dick
When last I was able to go online, I titled that blog with something to do with my medical tests, the results, the implications and the future in light of all this. Since then, we've had a major blow up and disconnect with our server, which was "bundled" with our phone and t.v. We've had a divorce in that relationship and now I'm sitting at Panera's doing my blog. Consequently, I'm off line until our next choice in servers can hook us up next Friday! So, I will be even more irregular in my communication until that gets fixed.
AND in the meantime, we've had an election..so the general title of "The Results, the implications, and the future in light of those results" is indeed appropriate. I think I'll get off now and let Amy have her shot as the internet, with the promise that I'll be back as soon as possible.
Thanks for your patience and your prayers!
Faithfully,
Dick
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Blog #32 - 10/30/10 The Future in Light of the Results
Dear Friends and Family:
Took another short break after last week's sad news about the VTS chapel fire. So far, I haven't heard any reason for the fire, but it put me into a bit of a funk in light of the current destructive bent of the Church (Episcopal) as a whole.
But, back to the business at hand, and my ponderings concerning the results of my recent tests: (1) the multiple myeloma has been beaten 'way down (2) Implications are that I still have some myeloma, albeit not much and, (3) cancer, being cancer, has a way of being eventually corrosive to the well being of the host , so plans for the future need to be made.
Ah... to address the future. Doris Day, in the classic movie "The Man Who Knew Too Much", sang a song "Que Sera." The first line went thusly: "Que Sera, sera, whatever will be will be; the future's not ours to see. Que sera sera." The implication being that you needn't plan anything because what's already planned (by Fate) is going to occur, regardless. In fact, an old Jewish saying is: If you want to amuse God, make plans."
I am very excited about what's ahead, although I haven't any idea of what the future holds. I do think it prudent, however, to at least look at some of the things I likely won't do. That means addressing and pruning "the bucket list."
Here are just a couple of the things that I've always thought I wanted to do that I think circumstances (mostly money and age) dictate that I finally jettison:
Flying lessons: Costs a great deal of money to learn to fly and more to keep renting a plane often enough to remain proficient. My soaring will have to come at the I-Max theatre or in those rare but wonderful dreams wherein I congregate with eagles.
Around the World trip: In all probability I won't get to see the Great Wall of China, the Great Pyramids and sites of Egypt; Victoria Falls; St Petersburg, Russia; or, The Amazon. I'll have to depend on Rick Steves and his travelogs.
Learning another foreign language: German and French are out. I speak a moderate amount of Spanish which can be improved; I however, had a dickens of a time with Hebrew and Greek, and I haven't gotten any smarter in the meantime. Let them speak English, and a bit louder please.
There are still plenty others left in the bucket about which I can be more definite:
Yellowstone in Winter. (providing it hasn't blown us all away in the meantime!) That's where Amy and I met nearly 47 years ago, and where we hope to go for our 50th anniversary in the not too distant future.
I'll address the future more in subsequent editions but close this by a biblical reference: Ephesians 2:10: For we are God workmenship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
I think I'll not only prune some of my desires, I'll look more earnestly in that bucket for the things God has already prepared for me to do that I've been ignorant of or have been avoiding (like Jonah's refusal to go to Nineveh).
As an act of some determination, I have this week gone thru some of the "stuff" I collected in my top bureau drawer. Some of the items don't seem so precious now, but there are others that I still need to hold on to. Pray for me!
Thanks for your prayers and patience!
Faithfully,
Dick
Took another short break after last week's sad news about the VTS chapel fire. So far, I haven't heard any reason for the fire, but it put me into a bit of a funk in light of the current destructive bent of the Church (Episcopal) as a whole.
But, back to the business at hand, and my ponderings concerning the results of my recent tests: (1) the multiple myeloma has been beaten 'way down (2) Implications are that I still have some myeloma, albeit not much and, (3) cancer, being cancer, has a way of being eventually corrosive to the well being of the host , so plans for the future need to be made.
Ah... to address the future. Doris Day, in the classic movie "The Man Who Knew Too Much", sang a song "Que Sera." The first line went thusly: "Que Sera, sera, whatever will be will be; the future's not ours to see. Que sera sera." The implication being that you needn't plan anything because what's already planned (by Fate) is going to occur, regardless. In fact, an old Jewish saying is: If you want to amuse God, make plans."
I am very excited about what's ahead, although I haven't any idea of what the future holds. I do think it prudent, however, to at least look at some of the things I likely won't do. That means addressing and pruning "the bucket list."
Here are just a couple of the things that I've always thought I wanted to do that I think circumstances (mostly money and age) dictate that I finally jettison:
Flying lessons: Costs a great deal of money to learn to fly and more to keep renting a plane often enough to remain proficient. My soaring will have to come at the I-Max theatre or in those rare but wonderful dreams wherein I congregate with eagles.
Around the World trip: In all probability I won't get to see the Great Wall of China, the Great Pyramids and sites of Egypt; Victoria Falls; St Petersburg, Russia; or, The Amazon. I'll have to depend on Rick Steves and his travelogs.
Learning another foreign language: German and French are out. I speak a moderate amount of Spanish which can be improved; I however, had a dickens of a time with Hebrew and Greek, and I haven't gotten any smarter in the meantime. Let them speak English, and a bit louder please.
There are still plenty others left in the bucket about which I can be more definite:
Yellowstone in Winter. (providing it hasn't blown us all away in the meantime!) That's where Amy and I met nearly 47 years ago, and where we hope to go for our 50th anniversary in the not too distant future.
I'll address the future more in subsequent editions but close this by a biblical reference: Ephesians 2:10: For we are God workmenship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
I think I'll not only prune some of my desires, I'll look more earnestly in that bucket for the things God has already prepared for me to do that I've been ignorant of or have been avoiding (like Jonah's refusal to go to Nineveh).
As an act of some determination, I have this week gone thru some of the "stuff" I collected in my top bureau drawer. Some of the items don't seem so precious now, but there are others that I still need to hold on to. Pray for me!
Thanks for your prayers and patience!
Faithfully,
Dick
Monday, October 25, 2010
Blog #31 10/25/10 An interruption - the Chapel remembered
Dear Family and Friends
"We interrupt this broadcast with late breaking news! Today, we learned that...." I remember that during WWII a radio program that was interrupted by these words spoken in a somber steady tone could only mean something bad had happened. Whatever lighter program we were listening to had to be delayed.
I was in the process of speaking about my test results, their implications, and future plans in light of the previous two. I am going to delay the third part a bit because I am distracted by some sad news that I received over the weekend.
On Friday, Oct 21, the Virginia Theological Seminary's chapel burned to the ground in an unexplained and fast moving fire. Amy and I are aghast at the reality that that beautiful building no longer exists. For the three years of my seminary life, every class day began in that sacred space. Every Wednesday evening we sang for our supper, seated in those choir stalls. Many a family and educational issue were lifted to the Lord there. I sought the Lord's help in dealing with teenage kids and in passing Greek and Hebrew. I'll never forget praying with one of my professors there, at noon, just before a critical Greek test. To say "I found Jesus" there would not be irony.
But the most devastating aspect of this fire lies in the date - sixteen years to the very day of the last time I was in the chapel: our middle daughter Susie's wedding. On a beautiful October afternoon in 1994, with the entire East coast ablaze in radient fall colors, Susie walked down that aisle to meet her groom.
The first of our three daughters to marry, she had asked me to officiate. I wondered if I could "marry off" one of my precious children. Could I give her away to Arthur? It was in that struggle that I came to the fullest understanding of srewardship. She was never mine or Amy's to keep and hold forever. She was always God's child and given to us to raise until she chose someone to be her mate for the rest of her life. As her priviledged parents, we were only her stewards until her wedding day. What a blessed reality! Thank you Lord for that priviledge!
Of course, the wedding did present some minor issues. How could I walk her down the aisle and then ask, "Who gives this woman to be married to this man?" and then proclaim "her mother and I do!" without sounding as if I were talking to myself? So, we had our good friend and former neighbor, Pastor Bill Graham do the initial greeting and inquiries.
Then shortly afterward, just prior to the reading of the Epistle, came a moment that became part of the seminary's wonderful history. From opposite the sacristy, mewing quietly and pleasantly, down the center between choir stalls came Baxter, the seminary cat, his collar bell jingling ever so audibly. He meandered in and stood momentarily beside Bill, looking up and around for recognition and a rewarding pat. All this provoked truly sacred amusement as everyone within reach wondered what to do. Then, after but a momentary debut, Baxter was scooped up by the acolyte and ferried out from whence he had come. At that moment all angst and tension fled, and nothing but joy and blessing prevailed.
I am sad that such a beautiful place is gone now. I am sad for all those alumni who remember it as I do, and sad for those present seminarians who came back this morning to the terrible reality that morning chapel would have to be in some new site.
But, the chapel was a building and not a life. (No one was injured in the blaze) The worship of the One true God and of His only Son Jesus can be and is done in the rudest of sites with every bit as much effectiveness. Praise God!
We do, however, have our pleasant memories. And we do have pictures of the wedding party (sans Baxter) taken in from of the altar. These will suffice.
"And now we return to our regularly scheduled program" (maybe tomorrow).
Your brother in Christ,
Dick
"We interrupt this broadcast with late breaking news! Today, we learned that...." I remember that during WWII a radio program that was interrupted by these words spoken in a somber steady tone could only mean something bad had happened. Whatever lighter program we were listening to had to be delayed.
I was in the process of speaking about my test results, their implications, and future plans in light of the previous two. I am going to delay the third part a bit because I am distracted by some sad news that I received over the weekend.
On Friday, Oct 21, the Virginia Theological Seminary's chapel burned to the ground in an unexplained and fast moving fire. Amy and I are aghast at the reality that that beautiful building no longer exists. For the three years of my seminary life, every class day began in that sacred space. Every Wednesday evening we sang for our supper, seated in those choir stalls. Many a family and educational issue were lifted to the Lord there. I sought the Lord's help in dealing with teenage kids and in passing Greek and Hebrew. I'll never forget praying with one of my professors there, at noon, just before a critical Greek test. To say "I found Jesus" there would not be irony.
But the most devastating aspect of this fire lies in the date - sixteen years to the very day of the last time I was in the chapel: our middle daughter Susie's wedding. On a beautiful October afternoon in 1994, with the entire East coast ablaze in radient fall colors, Susie walked down that aisle to meet her groom.
The first of our three daughters to marry, she had asked me to officiate. I wondered if I could "marry off" one of my precious children. Could I give her away to Arthur? It was in that struggle that I came to the fullest understanding of srewardship. She was never mine or Amy's to keep and hold forever. She was always God's child and given to us to raise until she chose someone to be her mate for the rest of her life. As her priviledged parents, we were only her stewards until her wedding day. What a blessed reality! Thank you Lord for that priviledge!
Of course, the wedding did present some minor issues. How could I walk her down the aisle and then ask, "Who gives this woman to be married to this man?" and then proclaim "her mother and I do!" without sounding as if I were talking to myself? So, we had our good friend and former neighbor, Pastor Bill Graham do the initial greeting and inquiries.
Then shortly afterward, just prior to the reading of the Epistle, came a moment that became part of the seminary's wonderful history. From opposite the sacristy, mewing quietly and pleasantly, down the center between choir stalls came Baxter, the seminary cat, his collar bell jingling ever so audibly. He meandered in and stood momentarily beside Bill, looking up and around for recognition and a rewarding pat. All this provoked truly sacred amusement as everyone within reach wondered what to do. Then, after but a momentary debut, Baxter was scooped up by the acolyte and ferried out from whence he had come. At that moment all angst and tension fled, and nothing but joy and blessing prevailed.
I am sad that such a beautiful place is gone now. I am sad for all those alumni who remember it as I do, and sad for those present seminarians who came back this morning to the terrible reality that morning chapel would have to be in some new site.
But, the chapel was a building and not a life. (No one was injured in the blaze) The worship of the One true God and of His only Son Jesus can be and is done in the rudest of sites with every bit as much effectiveness. Praise God!
We do, however, have our pleasant memories. And we do have pictures of the wedding party (sans Baxter) taken in from of the altar. These will suffice.
"And now we return to our regularly scheduled program" (maybe tomorrow).
Your brother in Christ,
Dick
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Blog #30 10/21/10 Implications (of the test results)
Dear Family and Friends:
(2) Implications of the Test Results
The tests done three weeks ago revealed that although the multiple myeloma had been dealt a tremendous whallop, the disease still exists in my system. I still have bone cancer. In fact, I still have two cancers: Bone and prostate (so far minute, being dealt with by shots of Luperon).
Not so long ago, the implication of such news would have resulted in the anticipation of painful and ineffective treatment and an inevitable and grusome death.
That, thankfully, is no longer the inevitable truth in all cases of cancer today. It might be, however, for those who those who did not get or perhaps ignored early warnings and did not get early diagnosis and treatment. And some cancers are just plain awful from start to finish and are agonizing for patient and family. Truly sad. My heart and prayers go out to them.
For me, early detection, the slow advance of the disease, and the development of newer and less traumatic drugs have given me a brighter outlook, even if the advance of the disease is inevitable (according to the doctor). I thank you Lord Jesus for that mercy!
The test results are clear: "Dick, you still have active cancer cells in your body."
The implications of the test results and of the reality of mortal flesh are also clear: "Dick, you aren't going to get out of this alive! You are, in fact, dying."
That awareness, however, is more truly a blessed reminder, than a devastation. I am "winding down." "The sand is passing through the pinch in the glass." And thus it has been since my birth. That said, I don't see me adopting the morose mindset of the 17th Century meta-physical poets who held that life was from birth a steady march toward the obscurity of inevitable death.
Knowing and accepting that this life always ends in death, I would rather use these test results as a wake up call to be more aware of life. In my next post, I will refer to the metaphysical poet John Donne who penned the famous words, "Therefore, never send to find for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee," and speak of future plans.
Thanks for you many prayers and support.
Faithfully,
Dick
(2) Implications of the Test Results
The tests done three weeks ago revealed that although the multiple myeloma had been dealt a tremendous whallop, the disease still exists in my system. I still have bone cancer. In fact, I still have two cancers: Bone and prostate (so far minute, being dealt with by shots of Luperon).
Not so long ago, the implication of such news would have resulted in the anticipation of painful and ineffective treatment and an inevitable and grusome death.
That, thankfully, is no longer the inevitable truth in all cases of cancer today. It might be, however, for those who those who did not get or perhaps ignored early warnings and did not get early diagnosis and treatment. And some cancers are just plain awful from start to finish and are agonizing for patient and family. Truly sad. My heart and prayers go out to them.
For me, early detection, the slow advance of the disease, and the development of newer and less traumatic drugs have given me a brighter outlook, even if the advance of the disease is inevitable (according to the doctor). I thank you Lord Jesus for that mercy!
The test results are clear: "Dick, you still have active cancer cells in your body."
The implications of the test results and of the reality of mortal flesh are also clear: "Dick, you aren't going to get out of this alive! You are, in fact, dying."
That awareness, however, is more truly a blessed reminder, than a devastation. I am "winding down." "The sand is passing through the pinch in the glass." And thus it has been since my birth. That said, I don't see me adopting the morose mindset of the 17th Century meta-physical poets who held that life was from birth a steady march toward the obscurity of inevitable death.
Knowing and accepting that this life always ends in death, I would rather use these test results as a wake up call to be more aware of life. In my next post, I will refer to the metaphysical poet John Donne who penned the famous words, "Therefore, never send to find for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee," and speak of future plans.
Thanks for you many prayers and support.
Faithfully,
Dick
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Blog #29 Oct 19, 2010 Processing the Report
Dear Family & Friends:
(1) The Test results
It's been a while since I last made contact; I went to the doctor's last week and got the results of all the tests that had been done a fortnight before. The doctor was very "up" as he related the findings, but frankly we were disappointed. We had prayed and hoped to hear that not even a tiny bit of multiple myeloma could now be detected. I was prepared to hear that I was one of those five per cent who are completely healed by the stem cell transplant process.
Well, that's not what we heard. The doctor said, "You never get rid of multiple myeloma." But we did learn that mine had been really whalloped by the transplant and that of the cells in the marrow, only .07% were abnormal. That's .0007! Itty-bitty! And that is very good! But....still there is some. I still have multiple myeloma, and it's likely to grow over time.
The rate of that growth is likely to be very slow as that seems to be characteristic of my particular disease, so I am going to begin a regimen revlamid (one pill a day/3 wks, then off a week) to keep the level knocked really low.
I will give monthly quanities of blood and urine samples to check on status. And we will continue that until the numbers change, up or down, and then we will do something different. When that will be, and what we will do is not known. We do know that the numbers could go down further. We also know that there are other medications available and that new ones are being developed all the time.
At one time, I was told that the stem cell process results in an average of a 5-8 year extension of life. I was also told that life expectancy following diagnosis was only five years, but that was over nine years ago! So, I am 'way ahead of the curve and going strong! Alleluia!
Repeating the trnasplant is not an option: (1) Medicare pays for only one in a lifetime. (two of the shots I was given for stem cell stimulus cost $80K each!!!) (2) My body could not take the "stress" of another transplant. (I wondered about that since I really never was aware of real stress during the first transplant. Oh well. It's not an option now, anyway)
So, there you have all the news fit to print. I took a while to process it and am still at it. This is deep stuff so I have decided to deal with this in three parts: (1) the test results. (2) the implications (3) the plans for the future.
I am on day #75 and charging toward day #100 and "liberation!" I have "cabin fever" like you can't believe, and am ready to get back to living. But with this latest news, I am thinking, and praying that my living will be more focused on mission and ministry in Jesus' name.
Thanks for your continued prayers. Please pray that the revlamid doesn't result in some sort of side-effect that makes me any more goofy that I already tend to be. In Jesus name, I am
Your brother in Christ,
Dick
(1) The Test results
It's been a while since I last made contact; I went to the doctor's last week and got the results of all the tests that had been done a fortnight before. The doctor was very "up" as he related the findings, but frankly we were disappointed. We had prayed and hoped to hear that not even a tiny bit of multiple myeloma could now be detected. I was prepared to hear that I was one of those five per cent who are completely healed by the stem cell transplant process.
Well, that's not what we heard. The doctor said, "You never get rid of multiple myeloma." But we did learn that mine had been really whalloped by the transplant and that of the cells in the marrow, only .07% were abnormal. That's .0007! Itty-bitty! And that is very good! But....still there is some. I still have multiple myeloma, and it's likely to grow over time.
The rate of that growth is likely to be very slow as that seems to be characteristic of my particular disease, so I am going to begin a regimen revlamid (one pill a day/3 wks, then off a week) to keep the level knocked really low.
I will give monthly quanities of blood and urine samples to check on status. And we will continue that until the numbers change, up or down, and then we will do something different. When that will be, and what we will do is not known. We do know that the numbers could go down further. We also know that there are other medications available and that new ones are being developed all the time.
At one time, I was told that the stem cell process results in an average of a 5-8 year extension of life. I was also told that life expectancy following diagnosis was only five years, but that was over nine years ago! So, I am 'way ahead of the curve and going strong! Alleluia!
Repeating the trnasplant is not an option: (1) Medicare pays for only one in a lifetime. (two of the shots I was given for stem cell stimulus cost $80K each!!!) (2) My body could not take the "stress" of another transplant. (I wondered about that since I really never was aware of real stress during the first transplant. Oh well. It's not an option now, anyway)
So, there you have all the news fit to print. I took a while to process it and am still at it. This is deep stuff so I have decided to deal with this in three parts: (1) the test results. (2) the implications (3) the plans for the future.
I am on day #75 and charging toward day #100 and "liberation!" I have "cabin fever" like you can't believe, and am ready to get back to living. But with this latest news, I am thinking, and praying that my living will be more focused on mission and ministry in Jesus' name.
Thanks for your continued prayers. Please pray that the revlamid doesn't result in some sort of side-effect that makes me any more goofy that I already tend to be. In Jesus name, I am
Your brother in Christ,
Dick
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Blog #28 10/07/10 Significant Dates
Dear Family and Friends:
Well, I'm still abiding, here on day #63. Come on Day #100! And yet as I say that, I realize I am wishing away my life, mildly restricted as it is. What a shame! Lord, I repent of that, and ask your forgiveness!
In my funk, I whizzed right past a significant date: Oct 4th, The Feast of St. Francis. Oh, what a day that was when I pastored a small church in rural Texas. We did a blessing of the animals in the school yard; all the school kids brought their annimals. And where most kids grow up and join FFA, everybody has at least one animal! calves, ponies, lambs, goats, chickens, ducks, snakes, fish, birds, cats and dogs of all sizes and descriptions, antfarms, gerbils, rats, etc. Fortunately, tho there some in the area, no one ever brought a skunk, rattler, bison, or ostrich. In my twelve years of spritzing the critters, I never got bit, and only once did a distressed kitty get away. (She stayed away from home about three days before coming back. I was absolved)
Those children who couldn't bring live animals were encouraged to bring a stuffed animal, so that nobody got excluded. With 130 students, we practically made a morning of it! Whooeee! What a day! From the lips of children came praise to God for the glory of His creation, as it did from St. Francis. Every day should be so significant.
But, there were days of grieving when someone lost a pet, or worse, a loved one. A hole had been made in the fabric of life, and for the moment, nothing brought them comfort. That was and is true for child and adult. We have all known that vacuum that only the grace of God can fill.
Recently, a number of our friends have lost their life's companion, and I grieve for and with them, especially on the anniversary of that passing. It's a significant date, and one I hope to remember with them so that I may lift them up in my prayers instead speeding through this minor "trial" of mine. "Lord, forgive me and make me an instrument of your peace..."
Enjoy this day...it is a day the Lord hath made. Rejoice and be glad in it!
Faithfully,
Dick
Well, I'm still abiding, here on day #63. Come on Day #100! And yet as I say that, I realize I am wishing away my life, mildly restricted as it is. What a shame! Lord, I repent of that, and ask your forgiveness!
In my funk, I whizzed right past a significant date: Oct 4th, The Feast of St. Francis. Oh, what a day that was when I pastored a small church in rural Texas. We did a blessing of the animals in the school yard; all the school kids brought their annimals. And where most kids grow up and join FFA, everybody has at least one animal! calves, ponies, lambs, goats, chickens, ducks, snakes, fish, birds, cats and dogs of all sizes and descriptions, antfarms, gerbils, rats, etc. Fortunately, tho there some in the area, no one ever brought a skunk, rattler, bison, or ostrich. In my twelve years of spritzing the critters, I never got bit, and only once did a distressed kitty get away. (She stayed away from home about three days before coming back. I was absolved)
Those children who couldn't bring live animals were encouraged to bring a stuffed animal, so that nobody got excluded. With 130 students, we practically made a morning of it! Whooeee! What a day! From the lips of children came praise to God for the glory of His creation, as it did from St. Francis. Every day should be so significant.
But, there were days of grieving when someone lost a pet, or worse, a loved one. A hole had been made in the fabric of life, and for the moment, nothing brought them comfort. That was and is true for child and adult. We have all known that vacuum that only the grace of God can fill.
Recently, a number of our friends have lost their life's companion, and I grieve for and with them, especially on the anniversary of that passing. It's a significant date, and one I hope to remember with them so that I may lift them up in my prayers instead speeding through this minor "trial" of mine. "Lord, forgive me and make me an instrument of your peace..."
Enjoy this day...it is a day the Lord hath made. Rejoice and be glad in it!
Faithfully,
Dick
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Blog #27 10/ 02/ 2010 Day # 58
Dear Friends & Family:
The real day of testing was last Thursday, 9/30. In anticipation of day #60, I surrendered lots of blood and another sample of bone marrow drilled from my hip (which drilling I will address momentarily). The word is that I will get a full report on my condition in a couple of weeks...day #70. And with the confirmation that things are looking good, I won't have to repeat that keester jab for another year! Alleluia!
Speaking of which, I would like to tell you about that bone marrow biopsy procedure. It hurts like fury! Some procedures, by their very nature do. But, the other day, as we were awaiting that procedure, we could feel an unusual tension about the clinic that had everybody sort of tiptoeing about. Something had happened (unknown to us) and there was a palpable angst in the air. So, when the PA and the nurse came into the room to do the biopsy, I asked if we could begin with a prayer. This sweet young PA said enthusiastically, "We could sure use it!"
We always pray before medical procedures but sometimes don't include the practicioner. But we should! Dr. Bill Reed, president of the Christian Medical Society, urged people to always pray with and for their doctor before they undergo any surgical procedure. For one, it relieves the doctor and the patient of the presumption that the doctor is the healer. Healing is in the hands of Jesus.
Secondly, the prayer gives a peace and grace to all involved, and a sense that each has a special place in the healing process. And lastly, there is that holy resignation to the healing process that goes beyond the surgery: the element of time.
Albert Eistein once said, "God invented time so that everything doesn't happen all at once."
I am resigned to the time element of healing, but reluctantly. I'm still a long way from day #100 when most bans will be lifted...assuming that the indicators are all still positive. Nonetheless, I feel ready to tackle a whole lot which that sweet PA (younger than any of my daughters!) smiles and says, "Nope! Not yet!" In fact, she says I can't mow the grass for six months!! But, that's what we do in Florida!
The point of this babble is that each person can and should pray with their physician and bathe everything that has to do with medical procedures in prayer, acknowledging His sovereignty, His grace and peace, and His timetable. Amen!
Abiding in His love and peace, and thankful for your prayers and encouragement,
Dick
The real day of testing was last Thursday, 9/30. In anticipation of day #60, I surrendered lots of blood and another sample of bone marrow drilled from my hip (which drilling I will address momentarily). The word is that I will get a full report on my condition in a couple of weeks...day #70. And with the confirmation that things are looking good, I won't have to repeat that keester jab for another year! Alleluia!
Speaking of which, I would like to tell you about that bone marrow biopsy procedure. It hurts like fury! Some procedures, by their very nature do. But, the other day, as we were awaiting that procedure, we could feel an unusual tension about the clinic that had everybody sort of tiptoeing about. Something had happened (unknown to us) and there was a palpable angst in the air. So, when the PA and the nurse came into the room to do the biopsy, I asked if we could begin with a prayer. This sweet young PA said enthusiastically, "We could sure use it!"
We always pray before medical procedures but sometimes don't include the practicioner. But we should! Dr. Bill Reed, president of the Christian Medical Society, urged people to always pray with and for their doctor before they undergo any surgical procedure. For one, it relieves the doctor and the patient of the presumption that the doctor is the healer. Healing is in the hands of Jesus.
Secondly, the prayer gives a peace and grace to all involved, and a sense that each has a special place in the healing process. And lastly, there is that holy resignation to the healing process that goes beyond the surgery: the element of time.
Albert Eistein once said, "God invented time so that everything doesn't happen all at once."
I am resigned to the time element of healing, but reluctantly. I'm still a long way from day #100 when most bans will be lifted...assuming that the indicators are all still positive. Nonetheless, I feel ready to tackle a whole lot which that sweet PA (younger than any of my daughters!) smiles and says, "Nope! Not yet!" In fact, she says I can't mow the grass for six months!! But, that's what we do in Florida!
The point of this babble is that each person can and should pray with their physician and bathe everything that has to do with medical procedures in prayer, acknowledging His sovereignty, His grace and peace, and His timetable. Amen!
Abiding in His love and peace, and thankful for your prayers and encouragement,
Dick
Friday, September 24, 2010
Blog #26 - 9/24/10 - Oblamov the sluggish
Dear Friends and Family:
"I'm here!! Don't pay the ransom!" Actually I've been here the whole time, but have fallen into some unexplainable lethargy. I get up late, eat a little, wander about the house aimlessly, fall back into bed for another hour or so. No pain; nothing really wrong with me, except that I have no oomph to accomplish anything.
"So what's wrong with that?" you ask. "If that's all you have to do, then that's all you have to do. Take it easy."
Well, that's not I have to do, but that's about all I'm allowed to do. If I do go outside, I see all the things in the yard and garden that need attention...but I'm not supposed to be in the sun or play in the dirt (pollens and bacteria). I can take walks or ride my bike, but that's circular...like a critter in a hampster run. I have in my mind lots of things to do, but I can't do them.
I'm mindful of a book by the Russian author Goncharov entitled "Oblamov." (There was a term created for such a man and his condition: "Oblamovism.") Oblamov was the pampered son of a wealthy land owner. He moved to the big city and was accustomed to the life of an aristocrat: he got up late, was fed and dressed by a servant, and only thought about what he should do in regard to the estate he eventually inherited. The first 140 pages of the book describe Oblamov's attempt to get out of bed (around 11a.m.) whilst pondering what to do about the report that he finally got around to reading. His estate manager was stealing him blind. While Oblamov mentally debates alternatives, he eventually sits up in bed and swings his feet over the side; his right foot searches for and eventually finds its slipper; more mental debate; left foot searches about, locates its slipper, begins scrunching into it...more debate...more scrunching...more debate...less scrunching...mental fatigue...no scrunching..."oh well, there's tomorrow"...one foot now free of its slipper, then both feet unfettered...and fall back into bed!!! I was going nuts as I tried to read this book! "Get your lazy @!#$#! out of bed!!
The upshot of the book is that Oblamov's German friend, who is a real type-A, eventually gets him out of bed, into the social stream, introduces him to a beautiful young lady, and now Oblamov's turning and burning, getting up about 6:30, to the great distress of his man-servant. About page 600, however, he's won the lady's heart and he begins to think about marriage; he starts pondering the implications and responsibilities of marriage and starts getting up later. As the rousings go from 7:30 to 8:30 to 9:30, my mind is screaming, "Oh no! Don't do that! GET UP!"
And Oblamov eventually returns to his former condition, only at the end of the book (page 700+), he has married his shapless former housekeeper who is content to let him sleep all day. The German friend marries the beautiful lady and is very successful in every venture. And after slugging my way through the wretched book, Dick Grant never took another nap for about the next two years!!!
In contrast to that, as I seem to sleep many times during the day, I have to remind myself, I am a "human being," not a "human doing." There are times when it is my job to "abide," not to "accomplish." In my waiting upon Him, God will accomplish what needs to be done.
And He has been doing that. Last week's report from the doctor was both good news and not so good. All my test results are very encouraging. I doing great! What is discouraging to me is that I had hoped to get out and about in time for the men's retreat the 1st of October, the clergy conference a week or so later, and some neat things at the cathedral thereabouts. The truth is that my liberation date is not until day #100 from the transplant, and that is not until November 13. Phoooey!
I shall endevor to pull up out of this dip into Oblamovism and at least do this post more reliably. Thanks for your continued prayers and well wishes!
Faithfully in Christ,
Dick
"I'm here!! Don't pay the ransom!" Actually I've been here the whole time, but have fallen into some unexplainable lethargy. I get up late, eat a little, wander about the house aimlessly, fall back into bed for another hour or so. No pain; nothing really wrong with me, except that I have no oomph to accomplish anything.
"So what's wrong with that?" you ask. "If that's all you have to do, then that's all you have to do. Take it easy."
Well, that's not I have to do, but that's about all I'm allowed to do. If I do go outside, I see all the things in the yard and garden that need attention...but I'm not supposed to be in the sun or play in the dirt (pollens and bacteria). I can take walks or ride my bike, but that's circular...like a critter in a hampster run. I have in my mind lots of things to do, but I can't do them.
I'm mindful of a book by the Russian author Goncharov entitled "Oblamov." (There was a term created for such a man and his condition: "Oblamovism.") Oblamov was the pampered son of a wealthy land owner. He moved to the big city and was accustomed to the life of an aristocrat: he got up late, was fed and dressed by a servant, and only thought about what he should do in regard to the estate he eventually inherited. The first 140 pages of the book describe Oblamov's attempt to get out of bed (around 11a.m.) whilst pondering what to do about the report that he finally got around to reading. His estate manager was stealing him blind. While Oblamov mentally debates alternatives, he eventually sits up in bed and swings his feet over the side; his right foot searches for and eventually finds its slipper; more mental debate; left foot searches about, locates its slipper, begins scrunching into it...more debate...more scrunching...more debate...less scrunching...mental fatigue...no scrunching..."oh well, there's tomorrow"...one foot now free of its slipper, then both feet unfettered...and fall back into bed!!! I was going nuts as I tried to read this book! "Get your lazy @!#$#! out of bed!!
The upshot of the book is that Oblamov's German friend, who is a real type-A, eventually gets him out of bed, into the social stream, introduces him to a beautiful young lady, and now Oblamov's turning and burning, getting up about 6:30, to the great distress of his man-servant. About page 600, however, he's won the lady's heart and he begins to think about marriage; he starts pondering the implications and responsibilities of marriage and starts getting up later. As the rousings go from 7:30 to 8:30 to 9:30, my mind is screaming, "Oh no! Don't do that! GET UP!"
And Oblamov eventually returns to his former condition, only at the end of the book (page 700+), he has married his shapless former housekeeper who is content to let him sleep all day. The German friend marries the beautiful lady and is very successful in every venture. And after slugging my way through the wretched book, Dick Grant never took another nap for about the next two years!!!
In contrast to that, as I seem to sleep many times during the day, I have to remind myself, I am a "human being," not a "human doing." There are times when it is my job to "abide," not to "accomplish." In my waiting upon Him, God will accomplish what needs to be done.
And He has been doing that. Last week's report from the doctor was both good news and not so good. All my test results are very encouraging. I doing great! What is discouraging to me is that I had hoped to get out and about in time for the men's retreat the 1st of October, the clergy conference a week or so later, and some neat things at the cathedral thereabouts. The truth is that my liberation date is not until day #100 from the transplant, and that is not until November 13. Phoooey!
I shall endevor to pull up out of this dip into Oblamovism and at least do this post more reliably. Thanks for your continued prayers and well wishes!
Faithfully in Christ,
Dick
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Blog #25 9/12/19 Remember where you were when...
Dear Ones:
Well, 9/11/10 came and passed with many folks remembering where they were and what they were doing on 09/11/01, and anticipating what 09/11/10 could bring if a misguided soul sparked a radical Muslin reaction to his burning 200 Korans: a negative recollection and an even worse negative anticipation.
I remember where I was on that first 9/11/01: I was scheduled to begin my first chemo therapy for mutiple myeloma, but was waved off by the last minute discovery that I had pneumonia (of which I was completely ignorant). I was thereupon ushered into the hospital for ten days of intense antibiotic therapy. Our youngest daughter accompanied me, and after getting "hooked up," I sat there in the bed with nothing to do, having exhausted every topic of conversation. "Shall we watch a game show?" she asked. "Sure, I shrugged. And all we saw on every channel were images of the collapsing towers. At first, I thought it was a moderization of the "War of the Worlds." It took a while for reality to sink in. And for the ten days I was in hospital, that's all there was to watch on t.v. Woe is me!
I have some other "do you remember where you were?" instances: (a) when Manilla fell to the Japanese; (b) when Roosevelt died; (c) when Tuman defeated Dewey; (d) when North Korea invaded South Korea; (e) when the "Iron Curtain" was raised, and when it was dismantled. With excpetion of the last, each was accompanied by an even greater negative anticipation, most of them never realized.
I also remember where I was when I first was aware that the Lord had spoken to me through His Word. We had been involved with a Charismatic prayer group and I was struggling with the whole idea of the "gifts." I don't remember the provocation for my reading chapter 14 of John's gospel, but I well remember descending the stairs to our family room, when verse 12 stood out in my consciousness with clarion volume: "I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these because I go to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name and I will do it." (John 14:12-14 NIV)
I stood at the bottom of the stairs and said aloud, "The Lord did not leave a powerless church when he went to His father." The penny fell!
I remember where I was when that happened! What a glorious "God-moment!" It has been followed by an ever developing anticipation of how that's going to be lived out, not just in my life, but in the lives of the Church! That's exactly what happened to the two men on their way to Emmaus; Jesus opened their minds to the truth of scripture. And they never forgot where they were when that happened!
I hope you have had such an experience where you can quickly bring to mind the circumstances when you heard the Lord clearly. If that proves difficult, then just go to a memory when you felt absolute peace, and ask Jesus where He was in that instance. It's a place to start, and a good place to remeber where you were when you discovered His presence.
Pressing on toward the mark, I remain
your brother in Christ,
Dick
Well, 9/11/10 came and passed with many folks remembering where they were and what they were doing on 09/11/01, and anticipating what 09/11/10 could bring if a misguided soul sparked a radical Muslin reaction to his burning 200 Korans: a negative recollection and an even worse negative anticipation.
I remember where I was on that first 9/11/01: I was scheduled to begin my first chemo therapy for mutiple myeloma, but was waved off by the last minute discovery that I had pneumonia (of which I was completely ignorant). I was thereupon ushered into the hospital for ten days of intense antibiotic therapy. Our youngest daughter accompanied me, and after getting "hooked up," I sat there in the bed with nothing to do, having exhausted every topic of conversation. "Shall we watch a game show?" she asked. "Sure, I shrugged. And all we saw on every channel were images of the collapsing towers. At first, I thought it was a moderization of the "War of the Worlds." It took a while for reality to sink in. And for the ten days I was in hospital, that's all there was to watch on t.v. Woe is me!
I have some other "do you remember where you were?" instances: (a) when Manilla fell to the Japanese; (b) when Roosevelt died; (c) when Tuman defeated Dewey; (d) when North Korea invaded South Korea; (e) when the "Iron Curtain" was raised, and when it was dismantled. With excpetion of the last, each was accompanied by an even greater negative anticipation, most of them never realized.
I also remember where I was when I first was aware that the Lord had spoken to me through His Word. We had been involved with a Charismatic prayer group and I was struggling with the whole idea of the "gifts." I don't remember the provocation for my reading chapter 14 of John's gospel, but I well remember descending the stairs to our family room, when verse 12 stood out in my consciousness with clarion volume: "I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these because I go to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name and I will do it." (John 14:12-14 NIV)
I stood at the bottom of the stairs and said aloud, "The Lord did not leave a powerless church when he went to His father." The penny fell!
I remember where I was when that happened! What a glorious "God-moment!" It has been followed by an ever developing anticipation of how that's going to be lived out, not just in my life, but in the lives of the Church! That's exactly what happened to the two men on their way to Emmaus; Jesus opened their minds to the truth of scripture. And they never forgot where they were when that happened!
I hope you have had such an experience where you can quickly bring to mind the circumstances when you heard the Lord clearly. If that proves difficult, then just go to a memory when you felt absolute peace, and ask Jesus where He was in that instance. It's a place to start, and a good place to remeber where you were when you discovered His presence.
Pressing on toward the mark, I remain
your brother in Christ,
Dick
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Blog #24 09/06/10 "Ora Labora"
Dear Family and Friends:
"Ora Labora" is the tune name for the hymn that begins, "Come, labor on. Who dares stands idle on the harvest plain, while all around us waves the golden grain?" A nice guilt-laden song which of late has been banging around my little pea-brain. I guess part of my discomfiture is not so much physical as mental, as I wait idly for this old carcass to get some stamina. There is so much that needs doing, but I can't cut the mustard. While I have no particular complaint, I just don't have the oomph to do very much at all, even to read! So, you guys will have to labor on; I'll just have to watch, for now!
Last week's venture to the doctor's office revealed that things are going along swimingly and all blood counts are now back to normal. I don't even have to report in to the clinic this week! Whoopie! Even so, I am still cautioned about being around crowds without a mask. I can even drive with Amy in the passenger seat! Alleluia!
Time marches on; I'll be out and about 'ere long. Your cards and emails are always a blessing! Thanks for you prayers and encouragement!
Much love in Christ,
Dick
"Ora Labora" is the tune name for the hymn that begins, "Come, labor on. Who dares stands idle on the harvest plain, while all around us waves the golden grain?" A nice guilt-laden song which of late has been banging around my little pea-brain. I guess part of my discomfiture is not so much physical as mental, as I wait idly for this old carcass to get some stamina. There is so much that needs doing, but I can't cut the mustard. While I have no particular complaint, I just don't have the oomph to do very much at all, even to read! So, you guys will have to labor on; I'll just have to watch, for now!
Last week's venture to the doctor's office revealed that things are going along swimingly and all blood counts are now back to normal. I don't even have to report in to the clinic this week! Whoopie! Even so, I am still cautioned about being around crowds without a mask. I can even drive with Amy in the passenger seat! Alleluia!
Time marches on; I'll be out and about 'ere long. Your cards and emails are always a blessing! Thanks for you prayers and encouragement!
Much love in Christ,
Dick
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Blog #23 9/01/10 Slowly! Slowly! Easy does it!
Dear Friends and Family:
Another week gone by...slowly...yet it is really hard to believe that I entered the hospital to begin the transplant process a month ago! Time passes by even when you're not having fun!
And God bless Amy! She takes such good, patient care of me! As I told someone else, she reminds me of a patient mother who restrains her crawling baby boy who scrambles to the edge of the bed (and a certin fall) by grasping his leg or his nightie and hauls him back to safety: "Whoa now, Dick! Not so fast!"
Yesterday, Amy did take me out to Lowes, to Bed Bath and Beyond, and to the grocery store. I was estatic! But, I came home and slept for a couple hours!
My last two doctor's visits have both indicated the stem cells are reproducing into the right number of appropriate cells, etc. etc.! Yea God! This is stem cell Day #26 and on day #30 they do some more extensive blood work. Day #60, we do a restaging which is a soup-to-nuts peekie-peekie at all systems, including a bone marrow biopsy. (Though it hurts like fury, I'm really looking forward to it!)
All that's left to do now is sit patiently while my stem cells continue to grow and my bald pate attempts reforrestation. It's been two weeks since I mowed and shaved my head, and I don't even have a 12 o'clock shadow! I do see, however, a few little nubs in front of my ears (where sideburns used to dwell). But, that will take some serious time and growth before I can do a comb-over with them! Meanwhile, I look like a taxi with its doors open! Ah, vanity, vanity!
Thanks again for all your prayers, cards, and encouragement!
Your brother in Christ,
Dick
Another week gone by...slowly...yet it is really hard to believe that I entered the hospital to begin the transplant process a month ago! Time passes by even when you're not having fun!
And God bless Amy! She takes such good, patient care of me! As I told someone else, she reminds me of a patient mother who restrains her crawling baby boy who scrambles to the edge of the bed (and a certin fall) by grasping his leg or his nightie and hauls him back to safety: "Whoa now, Dick! Not so fast!"
Yesterday, Amy did take me out to Lowes, to Bed Bath and Beyond, and to the grocery store. I was estatic! But, I came home and slept for a couple hours!
My last two doctor's visits have both indicated the stem cells are reproducing into the right number of appropriate cells, etc. etc.! Yea God! This is stem cell Day #26 and on day #30 they do some more extensive blood work. Day #60, we do a restaging which is a soup-to-nuts peekie-peekie at all systems, including a bone marrow biopsy. (Though it hurts like fury, I'm really looking forward to it!)
All that's left to do now is sit patiently while my stem cells continue to grow and my bald pate attempts reforrestation. It's been two weeks since I mowed and shaved my head, and I don't even have a 12 o'clock shadow! I do see, however, a few little nubs in front of my ears (where sideburns used to dwell). But, that will take some serious time and growth before I can do a comb-over with them! Meanwhile, I look like a taxi with its doors open! Ah, vanity, vanity!
Thanks again for all your prayers, cards, and encouragement!
Your brother in Christ,
Dick
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Blog #22 8/26/10 Twiddle-Dee, Twiddle-Dum
Dear Family and Friends;
Today's Day #21 for my little stem cells as they make themselves into new white cell, red cells, plateletts, and after our visit to the doctor today, the report's looking pretty good. Platelettes and white cells are now all within the completely normal range, and the red cells are not far behind.
They were a little concerned today, that my blood pressure was low (for me - 90's) and my pulse rate was elevated (like 115 bpm), and I complained about hot flashes. They concluded that I needed hydration, so they drizzled a quart of saline solution into me over the next 90 minutes while Amy had nothing to do but stare off into the distance (she'd forgotten to bring her book!).
And was it ever cold in that facility! Brrrrr! We think that the reason is that one of the nurses is about two weeks from delivery date and she's carrying a hot bisquit in the oven! All the other satff had sweaters to put on; they gave me a warmed blanket, but Ames just bore up onder it.
It's a waiting game now, for me (us), with some thumb twiddling, as I try to drink more each day, do more exercise, eat a little more (food still is not appepizing) and of course get plenty of rest. Not a very busy calendar, but any of those enterprises I've mentioned, sets me down panting; yet, the day seems to get away from me pretty easily.
We've gotten a wondrous number of cards and calls from very prayerful and encouraging folks. Thanks so much! It's truly a gift from God's host when you receive more first-class mail than junk! Makes me almost cry to think that people are not much into sending Christmas cards anymore because of the cost! (I'll leave that one in God's hands!)
Peace and joy to you all, in our Lord Jeus' name.
As ever in His Hope,
Dick
Today's Day #21 for my little stem cells as they make themselves into new white cell, red cells, plateletts, and after our visit to the doctor today, the report's looking pretty good. Platelettes and white cells are now all within the completely normal range, and the red cells are not far behind.
They were a little concerned today, that my blood pressure was low (for me - 90's) and my pulse rate was elevated (like 115 bpm), and I complained about hot flashes. They concluded that I needed hydration, so they drizzled a quart of saline solution into me over the next 90 minutes while Amy had nothing to do but stare off into the distance (she'd forgotten to bring her book!).
And was it ever cold in that facility! Brrrrr! We think that the reason is that one of the nurses is about two weeks from delivery date and she's carrying a hot bisquit in the oven! All the other satff had sweaters to put on; they gave me a warmed blanket, but Ames just bore up onder it.
It's a waiting game now, for me (us), with some thumb twiddling, as I try to drink more each day, do more exercise, eat a little more (food still is not appepizing) and of course get plenty of rest. Not a very busy calendar, but any of those enterprises I've mentioned, sets me down panting; yet, the day seems to get away from me pretty easily.
We've gotten a wondrous number of cards and calls from very prayerful and encouraging folks. Thanks so much! It's truly a gift from God's host when you receive more first-class mail than junk! Makes me almost cry to think that people are not much into sending Christmas cards anymore because of the cost! (I'll leave that one in God's hands!)
Peace and joy to you all, in our Lord Jeus' name.
As ever in His Hope,
Dick
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Blog #21 8/22/10 Pressing on towards the mark
Dear Ones:
Pressing on towards the mark is scriptural and quite noble. But for me, now sprung from the hospital some five days, it isn't pressing very hard. I do well to get up, use the bathroom, walk around the house once or twice, maybe eat something and fall back in bed exhausted. It feels like a day's work.
But, bless Amy's heart, she noted that all my stem cells are juvenile, just like a newborn baby's: "all newborns do is eat a little, blink and look around, poop, and go back to sleep. Go back to bed, Dick." That permission not to have to be "productive" is very welcome!
This afternoon, however, I discovered another souce of fatigue. I have an army of pills to take, and over half of them list "drowiness" as one of the possible side effects. So, there! If you come to visit, and I am sleeping, don't worry, it's part of my daily routine. I don't mind being roused and sociable. And, if you come and I am sitting up and "awake," after a bit, I might just sort of lean over on you and go to sleep! ZZzzzzzzz!
I am getting stronger by the day and rejoicing to greet each new day! This is Day #17 of my "new cells" and I am pressing on toward the mark, day by day. May the Lord be glorified in this victory! AMEN!
Peace and joy! Thanks for the continued prayers!
Dick
Pressing on towards the mark is scriptural and quite noble. But for me, now sprung from the hospital some five days, it isn't pressing very hard. I do well to get up, use the bathroom, walk around the house once or twice, maybe eat something and fall back in bed exhausted. It feels like a day's work.
But, bless Amy's heart, she noted that all my stem cells are juvenile, just like a newborn baby's: "all newborns do is eat a little, blink and look around, poop, and go back to sleep. Go back to bed, Dick." That permission not to have to be "productive" is very welcome!
This afternoon, however, I discovered another souce of fatigue. I have an army of pills to take, and over half of them list "drowiness" as one of the possible side effects. So, there! If you come to visit, and I am sleeping, don't worry, it's part of my daily routine. I don't mind being roused and sociable. And, if you come and I am sitting up and "awake," after a bit, I might just sort of lean over on you and go to sleep! ZZzzzzzzz!
I am getting stronger by the day and rejoicing to greet each new day! This is Day #17 of my "new cells" and I am pressing on toward the mark, day by day. May the Lord be glorified in this victory! AMEN!
Peace and joy! Thanks for the continued prayers!
Dick
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Blog #20 8/18/10 Don't pay the Ransom!
Dear family and friends:
"Don't pay the ransom! They let me go!!" was what one of my dear friends would always hollar as he came through the door when he was late for the meeting.
And I'm free now, too! They let me free from the hospital shortly after noon today, and I didn't know whether to laugh or cry with joy! Despite the stiffling heat, freedom is great; and all autos, houses, children at play, restaurants, birds flying, people strolling, etc. etc. have a new color and interest about them.
We return to the doctor's clinic tomorrow to learn further details about meds, limitations, and activities. In about two weeks I will have to do another bone marrow biopsy to see how those new little stem cells are regenerating, and then about a month and a half after that, I do the whole restaging process (another bone marrow biopsy, x-rays, MRIs, blood work, pulmonay, etc,). No rest for the wicked.
We got home, ate lunch, took naps, and then it was outside on a stool as Amy took the clippers to my thining topknot. Whether it was because I was in a bright red tee shirt, or because of the indignity of it all, a bright red cardinal sat right above her and crticized the whole operation. Maybe he was just making dibbs on the tufts of hair lying about. So now I'm shorn.
We took a short walk, and looked up to see a wonderful rainbow in the sky - a wonderful sign of promise and hope.
Don't pay the ransom...it's already been paid by God's Son Jesus. I am free! And have been for a long time! Alleluia!
As ever in Christ,
Dick
"Don't pay the ransom! They let me go!!" was what one of my dear friends would always hollar as he came through the door when he was late for the meeting.
And I'm free now, too! They let me free from the hospital shortly after noon today, and I didn't know whether to laugh or cry with joy! Despite the stiffling heat, freedom is great; and all autos, houses, children at play, restaurants, birds flying, people strolling, etc. etc. have a new color and interest about them.
We return to the doctor's clinic tomorrow to learn further details about meds, limitations, and activities. In about two weeks I will have to do another bone marrow biopsy to see how those new little stem cells are regenerating, and then about a month and a half after that, I do the whole restaging process (another bone marrow biopsy, x-rays, MRIs, blood work, pulmonay, etc,). No rest for the wicked.
We got home, ate lunch, took naps, and then it was outside on a stool as Amy took the clippers to my thining topknot. Whether it was because I was in a bright red tee shirt, or because of the indignity of it all, a bright red cardinal sat right above her and crticized the whole operation. Maybe he was just making dibbs on the tufts of hair lying about. So now I'm shorn.
We took a short walk, and looked up to see a wonderful rainbow in the sky - a wonderful sign of promise and hope.
Don't pay the ransom...it's already been paid by God's Son Jesus. I am free! And have been for a long time! Alleluia!
As ever in Christ,
Dick
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Blog #20 redeux 8/17/10 Special Air
Dear Ones:
Unless I hit the wrong key again, I'll publish my last blog from within the confines of the hopital tonight! Praise the Lord, I'm free to go home tomorrow! Alleluia! whoopie! and Hot Dang! I will have been here only two and a half weeks, and believe me, that's long enough!
One of my recent visitors, however, asked me what this experience has meant to me. I thought only briefly to respond, "I come from this somewhat ashamed of the very shallow response I have had when learning that someone (especially someone young) has been sentenced to two to five years or more in prison." Albeit, these are not nice people, the thought that someone is confined to a cell a third the size of this room, with someone else, with incessant noise, constant fear, with no window, no visitors, no attending nurses to check on my welfare, no phone, no cards, no hope of seeing day except for a few hours, has shaken me. Forgive me Lord for having no more pity on the prisoner than I have had! And to think that Nelson Mandela came out of 26 yrs of mostly solitary inprisonment sane is incredible!
I leave this particular room to whomever is so privileged to have it: beautiful view, the only flat screen t.v. in the ward, the biggest refrigerator, and an overview of the helo pad. The last has given me the awareness of the many trips to and fro the pilots and crew make, and of the need of healing the people they ferry have. I have prayed for them on each occasion that they arrive, and I leave here almost reluctantly, as though leaving my post. Amy patted my hand gently and reminded me, "The Lord will provide someone for that. You're coming home."
Well, Im not sure what I am going to do with my new found sentiment, but I tell you that tomorrow, I am going to take a deep breath of freedom and give praise to my Lord!
I will learn more about what I can and cannot do after I get sprung, but I suspect it will be very limited; sorta like "house arrest.
I surely have felt your prayers and encouragement, and will love to see you if you care to drop by the house. Call before you come as I am sure we will have many hours yet to come in the doctor's clinic.
Much love to you all on my next to last day at "Stem Cell Camp."
Your brother in Christ,
Dick
Unless I hit the wrong key again, I'll publish my last blog from within the confines of the hopital tonight! Praise the Lord, I'm free to go home tomorrow! Alleluia! whoopie! and Hot Dang! I will have been here only two and a half weeks, and believe me, that's long enough!
One of my recent visitors, however, asked me what this experience has meant to me. I thought only briefly to respond, "I come from this somewhat ashamed of the very shallow response I have had when learning that someone (especially someone young) has been sentenced to two to five years or more in prison." Albeit, these are not nice people, the thought that someone is confined to a cell a third the size of this room, with someone else, with incessant noise, constant fear, with no window, no visitors, no attending nurses to check on my welfare, no phone, no cards, no hope of seeing day except for a few hours, has shaken me. Forgive me Lord for having no more pity on the prisoner than I have had! And to think that Nelson Mandela came out of 26 yrs of mostly solitary inprisonment sane is incredible!
I leave this particular room to whomever is so privileged to have it: beautiful view, the only flat screen t.v. in the ward, the biggest refrigerator, and an overview of the helo pad. The last has given me the awareness of the many trips to and fro the pilots and crew make, and of the need of healing the people they ferry have. I have prayed for them on each occasion that they arrive, and I leave here almost reluctantly, as though leaving my post. Amy patted my hand gently and reminded me, "The Lord will provide someone for that. You're coming home."
Well, Im not sure what I am going to do with my new found sentiment, but I tell you that tomorrow, I am going to take a deep breath of freedom and give praise to my Lord!
I will learn more about what I can and cannot do after I get sprung, but I suspect it will be very limited; sorta like "house arrest.
I surely have felt your prayers and encouragement, and will love to see you if you care to drop by the house. Call before you come as I am sure we will have many hours yet to come in the doctor's clinic.
Much love to you all on my next to last day at "Stem Cell Camp."
Your brother in Christ,
Dick
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Blog #19 8/15/10 A Glorious Sabbeth
Dear friends and family:
This is the day the Lord hath made; let us rejoice in it and be glad! Although I didn't sleep well, I awoke (again) at 8:30 and felt gloriously refreshed. The day got better from then on.
My white blood cells have risen to 0.5! Ta da! I thought that meant I was within a day or so of release, only to learn that the count has to be over 1000. But any step, even a small step is cause for rejoicing. And apparently I am trading hair for white blood cells as my toppage is beginning to rain down on my keyboard, even as we speek.
Last night I bade Becky goodbye as she journeyed home today to Chicago, her hus band, daughter, and her career. What a blessing it was to have her here for 10 days. After she left, I sat down and composed another blog (#18); I edited, rewrote, composed, spell-checked, etc., marveling at its wit and wisdom, and pressed "Publish Post" and apparently bade it farewell as well. The blogsite responded by announcing "You have successfully published your post", but fired it off into cyberspace somewhere. It is not to be found!
Oh well, must not have been all that good.
The summary is this: entering week three in Stem Cell Camp. I am in good spirits, have no physical complaints, other than hair loss (which is no big deal) and my left eye is no longer blue....its blood red! Something busted loose and what would normally be just some "red eye" is quite blood filled. Doctor figured my platelets are low, so I've been given some donor plateletts to help stop these little "bleeds."
It was especially good to see my brother Charlie this afternoon. Kaye brought him to see me and that delighted me. We had a good visit.
I close this day in prayer and thanksgiving for His nearness and goodness. Thank you Lord!
As ever in Jesus,
Dick
This is the day the Lord hath made; let us rejoice in it and be glad! Although I didn't sleep well, I awoke (again) at 8:30 and felt gloriously refreshed. The day got better from then on.
My white blood cells have risen to 0.5! Ta da! I thought that meant I was within a day or so of release, only to learn that the count has to be over 1000. But any step, even a small step is cause for rejoicing. And apparently I am trading hair for white blood cells as my toppage is beginning to rain down on my keyboard, even as we speek.
Last night I bade Becky goodbye as she journeyed home today to Chicago, her hus band, daughter, and her career. What a blessing it was to have her here for 10 days. After she left, I sat down and composed another blog (#18); I edited, rewrote, composed, spell-checked, etc., marveling at its wit and wisdom, and pressed "Publish Post" and apparently bade it farewell as well. The blogsite responded by announcing "You have successfully published your post", but fired it off into cyberspace somewhere. It is not to be found!
Oh well, must not have been all that good.
The summary is this: entering week three in Stem Cell Camp. I am in good spirits, have no physical complaints, other than hair loss (which is no big deal) and my left eye is no longer blue....its blood red! Something busted loose and what would normally be just some "red eye" is quite blood filled. Doctor figured my platelets are low, so I've been given some donor plateletts to help stop these little "bleeds."
It was especially good to see my brother Charlie this afternoon. Kaye brought him to see me and that delighted me. We had a good visit.
I close this day in prayer and thanksgiving for His nearness and goodness. Thank you Lord!
As ever in Jesus,
Dick
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Friday, August 13, 2010
Blog #17 8/13/10 Down in the Valley
Dear Family and friends:
What comfort the 23rd Psalm is at this point! "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me; thy rod and they staff they comfort me."
So I am abiding in the valley of nadir (lowest ebb in my white blood cell count), in more or least perfect peace. For today, I think I went even lower than that! To help me sleep last night, I was given two Abient tabs (5mg@). Holy toledo! I woke up at 8:30a.m., took a stroll around the ward, went back to sleep, sleep till noon, strecthed a little, back to sleep, etc. Didn't eat lunch until 2:30and got ready for bed (nite-nite) at 3:30p.m.! Amy and daughter Rebecca came in at 5:30 and woke me up! Be careful of that stuff!
Other than that, I feel fine, but I noted that one of my eyes has turned reddish. Hmmmmm.
Thanks again for your prayers! Glory to God in Jesus!
Dick
What comfort the 23rd Psalm is at this point! "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me; thy rod and they staff they comfort me."
So I am abiding in the valley of nadir (lowest ebb in my white blood cell count), in more or least perfect peace. For today, I think I went even lower than that! To help me sleep last night, I was given two Abient tabs (5mg@). Holy toledo! I woke up at 8:30a.m., took a stroll around the ward, went back to sleep, sleep till noon, strecthed a little, back to sleep, etc. Didn't eat lunch until 2:30and got ready for bed (nite-nite) at 3:30p.m.! Amy and daughter Rebecca came in at 5:30 and woke me up! Be careful of that stuff!
Other than that, I feel fine, but I noted that one of my eyes has turned reddish. Hmmmmm.
Thanks again for your prayers! Glory to God in Jesus!
Dick
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Blog #15 8/10/10 Down in the valley!,,,for sure!
Dear Ones:
I'm been screaming at this laptop,"No! No! No! I've not said anything yet! Don't publish just the title!" But sigh, I've sent out two pretty blank posts because I pushed the wrong button twice! Must be the drugs (couldn't possibly be operator error.)
Well, I am, as it were, "enjoying ill health." According to the blood reports, I entered my "nadir" phase (bottoming out) yesterday, and my white blood cell count is .1. I guess that means that the old blood cells (red, white, and platelets) are all run out of this old corse, and the new stem cells ones should begin reproducing healthy new cells 'ere long. It's hard to imagine being in a physical condition wherein I could contract just any old disease merely by contact or inhalation, and I have no natural defense against it. Oh the wonder of God and the wonders of the science He has led us to! May His name be forever praised!
And while at this moment I feel no ill effect, some things could get uncomfortable...stomach, bowels, throat and mouth. But, thank you Jesus, I am only a little tired, but have a full set of hair, and both eyes are still blue!
This computer seems to be operational, but I have received individual notes and calls that tell me they cannot respond to this blog. Don't know where the problem lies, so just individually email me at
Again, thanks for the cards. calls,and especially the prayers
Wallowing in my nadir, but comfortably safe in His arms, I am gratefully yours,
Dick
I'm been screaming at this laptop,"No! No! No! I've not said anything yet! Don't publish just the title!" But sigh, I've sent out two pretty blank posts because I pushed the wrong button twice! Must be the drugs (couldn't possibly be operator error.)
Well, I am, as it were, "enjoying ill health." According to the blood reports, I entered my "nadir" phase (bottoming out) yesterday, and my white blood cell count is .1. I guess that means that the old blood cells (red, white, and platelets) are all run out of this old corse, and the new stem cells ones should begin reproducing healthy new cells 'ere long. It's hard to imagine being in a physical condition wherein I could contract just any old disease merely by contact or inhalation, and I have no natural defense against it. Oh the wonder of God and the wonders of the science He has led us to! May His name be forever praised!
And while at this moment I feel no ill effect, some things could get uncomfortable...stomach, bowels, throat and mouth. But, thank you Jesus, I am only a little tired, but have a full set of hair, and both eyes are still blue!
This computer seems to be operational, but I have received individual notes and calls that tell me they cannot respond to this blog. Don't know where the problem lies, so just individually email me at
Again, thanks for the cards. calls,and especially the prayers
Wallowing in my nadir, but comfortably safe in His arms, I am gratefully yours,
Dick
Monday, August 9, 2010
Blog #14 (I think) Back on the blog! (I think & hope)
Dear Friends and family:
Today began week two in Stem Cell Camp, and so far, with the exception of getting stir crazy after only one week (of maybe three)I,m doing very well. My stem cell count has not dropped yet as it's supposed to, so here I sit in a waiting mode. The doctor and nurses all assure me that in time, I will feel like the bottom of the fish tank. That's called my "nadir." So, I spend my time reading, watching t.v., strolling around the ward floor with my "tree", thinking, praying, writing, snoozing, etc.
Amy got my computer back from the repair man and so far it seems to be doing o.k., although it did refuse to send the entirety of a email response I typed out. In fact, it wouldn't send any of it until I put it into "draft" status, and then sent only part of it. Sigh!
I have a very nice view from my room of the lake opposite the hospital, and I can see the pretty red flowers on the bridge on Mills street. the helo port is just below me, so I get to watch that activity. Wheee!
I've had some visitors and lots of cards! Daughter Becky will remain here until the 15th, and that's such a blessing. Thanks for thinking of me and saying such beautiful prayers.
Now, that's something I can do while I'm just sitting about. If you'd send me the names or situations you'd like prayer for, I crank them out for you for sure!
Blessings, peace and joy from Camp,
Dick
Today began week two in Stem Cell Camp, and so far, with the exception of getting stir crazy after only one week (of maybe three)I,m doing very well. My stem cell count has not dropped yet as it's supposed to, so here I sit in a waiting mode. The doctor and nurses all assure me that in time, I will feel like the bottom of the fish tank. That's called my "nadir." So, I spend my time reading, watching t.v., strolling around the ward floor with my "tree", thinking, praying, writing, snoozing, etc.
Amy got my computer back from the repair man and so far it seems to be doing o.k., although it did refuse to send the entirety of a email response I typed out. In fact, it wouldn't send any of it until I put it into "draft" status, and then sent only part of it. Sigh!
I have a very nice view from my room of the lake opposite the hospital, and I can see the pretty red flowers on the bridge on Mills street. the helo port is just below me, so I get to watch that activity. Wheee!
I've had some visitors and lots of cards! Daughter Becky will remain here until the 15th, and that's such a blessing. Thanks for thinking of me and saying such beautiful prayers.
Now, that's something I can do while I'm just sitting about. If you'd send me the names or situations you'd like prayer for, I crank them out for you for sure!
Blessings, peace and joy from Camp,
Dick
Saturday, August 7, 2010
BLOG # 11 AUG 7, 2010
Dear Family and Friends,
This computer has been acting up but we are back in business and ready to report the last two days.
Dick had all his stem cells transplanted on Thursday and did great. They were talking about splitting the doses between two days but changed their minds and got it over with in 21/2 hours. I was there in his room and they put in 10 20cc syringes ,monitored his temp. and blood pressure as well as giving him huge amounts of fluids. That is to flush out the dead cells they killed off with the chemo.
It is an amazing procedure. He had to get up frequently to use the bathroom so was worn out after it all plus they gave him a diuretic to get rid of all the extra fluid. Katie came in the afternoon and then we came home to rest. We picked up Becky at midnight, so it was a full and taxing day for all of us.
Friday was a let down day and Dick was exhausted. His stomach has been upset and he is very tired so we cleared out of his room and he got some good sleep in the afternoon. I came home and slept too while the girls and their cousins went out for dinner. The girls went back in the evening and said Dick was much better and they walked the halls with him. I talked to him later and seems the sleep and resting was what all of us needed to recharge.
The doctor is very pleased with his progress but does say the low period is coming as the rest of the dead cells get out of his system and the stem cells have to reproduce the necessary cells to get the body going full steam.
We continue to stand in awe of what the Lord is doing and give him the praise and the glory for this wonderful gift of life he is giving Dick.
In His love and peace.
Amy
Dear Family and Friends,
This computer has been acting up but we are back in business and ready to report the last two days.
Dick had all his stem cells transplanted on Thursday and did great. They were talking about splitting the doses between two days but changed their minds and got it over with in 21/2 hours. I was there in his room and they put in 10 20cc syringes ,monitored his temp. and blood pressure as well as giving him huge amounts of fluids. That is to flush out the dead cells they killed off with the chemo.
It is an amazing procedure. He had to get up frequently to use the bathroom so was worn out after it all plus they gave him a diuretic to get rid of all the extra fluid. Katie came in the afternoon and then we came home to rest. We picked up Becky at midnight, so it was a full and taxing day for all of us.
Friday was a let down day and Dick was exhausted. His stomach has been upset and he is very tired so we cleared out of his room and he got some good sleep in the afternoon. I came home and slept too while the girls and their cousins went out for dinner. The girls went back in the evening and said Dick was much better and they walked the halls with him. I talked to him later and seems the sleep and resting was what all of us needed to recharge.
The doctor is very pleased with his progress but does say the low period is coming as the rest of the dead cells get out of his system and the stem cells have to reproduce the necessary cells to get the body going full steam.
We continue to stand in awe of what the Lord is doing and give him the praise and the glory for this wonderful gift of life he is giving Dick.
In His love and peace.
Amy
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
BLOG #10 AUG 4,2010
Dear Friends and Family,
I will try to follow Dick's outline tonight and hope it looks similar to his. Not quite sure how it goes but certainly not running all together as last nights. I also have to edit what I said. I told you he had 10 million stem cells but that was 10 syringes full. He put out 4.6 million, still alot.
He will have 5 put in tomorrow morning and 5 the next day. I can be there and they do it in his room over an hours time. Amazing and not as restrictive as we were led to believe.
He can have visitors and there is not masking, gloving, or gowning. The only time he has to wear a mask is when he is out walking in the hall. His door is to be closed all the time and we need to be washing our hands constantly but generally not as anxiety provoking as before. he is welcome to have visitors and you can come up or call to say "hi". The number is 407-303-1550
Room 3782. I know he would enjoy a call or visit.
He still feels pretty well but will begin feeling the effects of the chemo about Sat. or Sunday. Then until the stem cells start to develop into the red and white cells of the new bone marrow.
Katie and I went in for a shorter time today as he needed some space and will not rest or stop talking if we are there. We are happy to read but he seems to think he has to entertain us.
Becky comes tomorrow and what a blessing the girls are. Someone else to do some of the thinking and processing and making sure I am hearing the right things.
Dick sends his love and assures you he is receiving your prayers and feels the power and strength they are bringing.
In His love,
Amy
I will try to follow Dick's outline tonight and hope it looks similar to his. Not quite sure how it goes but certainly not running all together as last nights. I also have to edit what I said. I told you he had 10 million stem cells but that was 10 syringes full. He put out 4.6 million, still alot.
He will have 5 put in tomorrow morning and 5 the next day. I can be there and they do it in his room over an hours time. Amazing and not as restrictive as we were led to believe.
He can have visitors and there is not masking, gloving, or gowning. The only time he has to wear a mask is when he is out walking in the hall. His door is to be closed all the time and we need to be washing our hands constantly but generally not as anxiety provoking as before. he is welcome to have visitors and you can come up or call to say "hi". The number is 407-303-1550
Room 3782. I know he would enjoy a call or visit.
He still feels pretty well but will begin feeling the effects of the chemo about Sat. or Sunday. Then until the stem cells start to develop into the red and white cells of the new bone marrow.
Katie and I went in for a shorter time today as he needed some space and will not rest or stop talking if we are there. We are happy to read but he seems to think he has to entertain us.
Becky comes tomorrow and what a blessing the girls are. Someone else to do some of the thinking and processing and making sure I am hearing the right things.
Dick sends his love and assures you he is receiving your prayers and feels the power and strength they are bringing.
In His love,
Amy
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
August 3,2010 First Day at Camp Dear Ones,I will try to keep you updated while Dick is getting use to his new cabin and counsellors. He lucked out in getting some really cute and delightful nurses, so I think his letters home may be limited and very short. Too much to do to keep him busy.Katie and I have decided the process getting him into the campsite was probably harder than the transplant itself- to begin on Thursday and again on Friday. We were finally called that a bed was available at 2:30 PM having been told to be ready early in the morning of the 2ND. He was to have that central line checked and probably replaced. Being the nurse that I am I had him NPO(no food) since midnight so he would have no trouble with anesthesia. Well, we waited and waited and then we were called. When we got there admitting said he had no bed. Since "bed management" had called us but not admitting, we had to wait another 45min. and then when finally transported the paper work had us in the wrong unit. Again being the nurse I said we would go to the right unit no matter what and they would be there waiting. Well, they knew we were to be there but the room still was not ready. Anyway we were sent to xray to check the line and yes it was in the wrong position and the reason we had 12 days of problems getting the blood out and flushing it. So another line was put in and the poor guy didn't get any dinner until 8PM.We truly bless the Lord for giving us peace through it all and allowing our joy to remain. We really overdid the camp thing just to keep our spirits up and I think the nurses think we are rather crazy. But we did alot of laughing and tucked him into bed for an evening of the first round of chemo, blood draws, lots of ice to chew to keep the mouth very wet and not to have the mucous membranes in his mouth to start breaking down.Katie and I went in this morning around 8 and he was awake and finishing breakfast.. Since he had little sleep and gets preventive meds to keep down the nausea, he was dozing off and on but in good spirits. Apparently the real strong side effects come after the transplant and the cells begin to take hold. Not quite sure of all the physiology but we are praying for minimum side effects. The amazing news was that he was able to produce 10 million stem cells and they usually hope for 3 to 5 million. The Lord is certainly providing ,as a man his age,71, usually doesn't get that many. As I recall Moses didn't start out on his journeys until he was much older and you know about Abraham.The other interesting bit about all this is that all the information we were given before hand about the unit and isolation is out dated. We do not have to mask, gown, or glove. All the detailed preparation they said to get his clothes clean, put in a hot dryer and into plastic bags is no more.The nurses were aghast at all the preparation so I gave them the manual to review and there are going to be some new instructions. The xray instructions were also out dated and they don't do general anesthesia. In fact he barely had any and it was very painful. Again I have to give God the glory because my usual MO would have been to hit the roof but He gave me great peace and calm which had to be Him.In spite of the glitches we do feel blessed that we have the facilities and procedures available as well as a sense of the Lord's 24/7 Presence. My heart goes out to the many,many wearied, sad, angry, and lost people we see around us. If they just knew how loving and willing our Lord Jesus is to gather them up and do for them what He is doing and will do for us.Again, thank you all for the prayers, calls, and cards. You are what God calls the Body of Christ and have kept us enveloped in His grace.In His love,Amy
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THE FIRST ATTEMPT
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Monday, August 2, 2010
Blog #8 Aug 2, 2010 - Going to Transplant Camp
Dear Ones:
Ta Da! The day's arrived and I am all packed, but they haven't called me yet to say that my room's ready and to "Come on down!" Twiddle thumbs, etc.
This packing to leave home gets down to what you think is important to take: like clearing out in advance of rising water or an advancing enemy. I remember a sobering pictiure of an elderly woman fleeing the war in Bosnia, wearing a hat with veil, a fur collar piece, a dusty suit, torn hose and low heels, dragging a small suitcase down a rocky dirt road. What an utterly pathetic look of hopelessness she had on her face. I see similar vingnettes in the many homeless in our city.
In complete contrast, I sit here with my Bible, the Book of Common Prayer with Hymnal, My Upmost for His Highest, a couple books and articles, some tablets to write or draw on, some pictures of my family to pin to my bulletin board, and an outrageous greeting card that blares out the "Star Wars" theme song when opened! I have some new pajamas and slippers, some underware (all checked for holes), some shorts and shirts and footie socks, all new toiletries, and a grin as wide as they come! I'm going to Stem Cell Transplant Camp!... and I can't wait to get this show on the road.
This past week has been a daily trial to get this central line (the thingy in my chest) to work properly, so I may begin with a minor surgery to replace it. It needs to flow easily in order that the fragile stem cells are not damaged when reintroduced into my blood stream.
So, let's go!
Amy will continue the blog until my computer is fixed and I feel up to it.
Thanks for the prayers and many expressions of encouragement!
Much love,
Dick
Ta Da! The day's arrived and I am all packed, but they haven't called me yet to say that my room's ready and to "Come on down!" Twiddle thumbs, etc.
This packing to leave home gets down to what you think is important to take: like clearing out in advance of rising water or an advancing enemy. I remember a sobering pictiure of an elderly woman fleeing the war in Bosnia, wearing a hat with veil, a fur collar piece, a dusty suit, torn hose and low heels, dragging a small suitcase down a rocky dirt road. What an utterly pathetic look of hopelessness she had on her face. I see similar vingnettes in the many homeless in our city.
In complete contrast, I sit here with my Bible, the Book of Common Prayer with Hymnal, My Upmost for His Highest, a couple books and articles, some tablets to write or draw on, some pictures of my family to pin to my bulletin board, and an outrageous greeting card that blares out the "Star Wars" theme song when opened! I have some new pajamas and slippers, some underware (all checked for holes), some shorts and shirts and footie socks, all new toiletries, and a grin as wide as they come! I'm going to Stem Cell Transplant Camp!... and I can't wait to get this show on the road.
This past week has been a daily trial to get this central line (the thingy in my chest) to work properly, so I may begin with a minor surgery to replace it. It needs to flow easily in order that the fragile stem cells are not damaged when reintroduced into my blood stream.
So, let's go!
Amy will continue the blog until my computer is fixed and I feel up to it.
Thanks for the prayers and many expressions of encouragement!
Much love,
Dick
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Blog #7 7/28/2010 BIG shots in the tummy & spinoff
Dear Ones:
A total of 8 Nupegen shots in the tummy ended Monday night with the addition of another drug called Plexifor....which is another word for "Holy Toledo! That's EXPENSIVE!" The nurse said that this is THE drug that gets the stem cells swimming readily, but that it's expensive. I remembered that I had once had some heart med that started at $1,800, so I started there. Her sad look made me make a couple more bold guesses. "No," she said, "it's $40,000 a vial and you're getting two vials."
We almost needed CPR at that point! $80,000 worth of clear fluid got poked into my tummy Monday night! Then after almost nine hours of stem cell spin-off the next day, I was advised to get another round of that liquid gold! I told Amy she ought to take me to the Antiques Road Show and ask them what they thought my tummy was worth and see how close to 160,000 they came!
But, the good news is that the drugs did their job and after a second day of 7 hours, enough stem cells had been harvested! Yea God! Now what I need is a keester transplant after all those hours of sitting on mine through the apheresis (spin off)
Part of the long time spent is apparently due to some problem with the thingy in my chest (central line - trifuge). So, the first day, the machine spent some time balking at my low production. The second day, they used my arm vein for collection and the central line for return.
Anyway, I'm all set for the chemo on Monday, after they determine if my central line can be cleared or needs to be replaced. (Oh joy! The first one hurt a'plenty....they'll need to knock me out for the removal of the first and replacement with a second line!)
Oh, I did find out why I couldn't sleep well....hot flashes! One of the side effects of the Nupegen. Ladies, you have all my sympathy!! I leaped up at 2:30 this a.m. thinking the bed was on fire!
Eldest daughter Katie is coming in Saturday. Happy day.
Thanks for the love, prayers and encouragement.
Yours in Christ's love,
Dick
A total of 8 Nupegen shots in the tummy ended Monday night with the addition of another drug called Plexifor....which is another word for "Holy Toledo! That's EXPENSIVE!" The nurse said that this is THE drug that gets the stem cells swimming readily, but that it's expensive. I remembered that I had once had some heart med that started at $1,800, so I started there. Her sad look made me make a couple more bold guesses. "No," she said, "it's $40,000 a vial and you're getting two vials."
We almost needed CPR at that point! $80,000 worth of clear fluid got poked into my tummy Monday night! Then after almost nine hours of stem cell spin-off the next day, I was advised to get another round of that liquid gold! I told Amy she ought to take me to the Antiques Road Show and ask them what they thought my tummy was worth and see how close to 160,000 they came!
But, the good news is that the drugs did their job and after a second day of 7 hours, enough stem cells had been harvested! Yea God! Now what I need is a keester transplant after all those hours of sitting on mine through the apheresis (spin off)
Part of the long time spent is apparently due to some problem with the thingy in my chest (central line - trifuge). So, the first day, the machine spent some time balking at my low production. The second day, they used my arm vein for collection and the central line for return.
Anyway, I'm all set for the chemo on Monday, after they determine if my central line can be cleared or needs to be replaced. (Oh joy! The first one hurt a'plenty....they'll need to knock me out for the removal of the first and replacement with a second line!)
Oh, I did find out why I couldn't sleep well....hot flashes! One of the side effects of the Nupegen. Ladies, you have all my sympathy!! I leaped up at 2:30 this a.m. thinking the bed was on fire!
Eldest daughter Katie is coming in Saturday. Happy day.
Thanks for the love, prayers and encouragement.
Yours in Christ's love,
Dick
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Blog #6 July 25 Shots in the tummy
Dear Family and Friends:
This being Sunday evening, we've just returned from the hospital for the 6th of 8 shots of Nupegin I am to receive (2 per day at 7:30a.m. and 7:30p.m.). This drug causes the sterm cells to come out of the bone marrow and flow in the peripheral blood stream. Even so, this twice a day to the hospital for shots in the tummy get old fast. BUT, that's better than them having to get the stem cells out of the marrow, as that's a major ooowie!
Turns out this thingy in the chest isn't so bad after a day or so....maybe it softens up with the body temperature, or gets more flexible with movement. Anway, sleeping on it hasn't proven difficult....just sleeping is. Don't know why, but I seem not to get to sleep very thoroughly before I'm awake again. Maybe it's this medication.
This is the week of apheresis - the spinning off of the stem cells: that's a 4-6 hr/day for three days process, much like kidney dialysis. Now that's going to get boring, I think.
In specifics, please pray that I have the ability to produce enough stem cells, and only healthy stem cells are spun off and harvested. Thanks!
To God be the glory! Amen!
Yours in Christ,
Dick
This being Sunday evening, we've just returned from the hospital for the 6th of 8 shots of Nupegin I am to receive (2 per day at 7:30a.m. and 7:30p.m.). This drug causes the sterm cells to come out of the bone marrow and flow in the peripheral blood stream. Even so, this twice a day to the hospital for shots in the tummy get old fast. BUT, that's better than them having to get the stem cells out of the marrow, as that's a major ooowie!
Turns out this thingy in the chest isn't so bad after a day or so....maybe it softens up with the body temperature, or gets more flexible with movement. Anway, sleeping on it hasn't proven difficult....just sleeping is. Don't know why, but I seem not to get to sleep very thoroughly before I'm awake again. Maybe it's this medication.
This is the week of apheresis - the spinning off of the stem cells: that's a 4-6 hr/day for three days process, much like kidney dialysis. Now that's going to get boring, I think.
In specifics, please pray that I have the ability to produce enough stem cells, and only healthy stem cells are spun off and harvested. Thanks!
To God be the glory! Amen!
Yours in Christ,
Dick
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Blog #5 - July 22, 2010 The Central Line
Dear family and friends:
Now we're really in this for keeps! Now they've messed with my body in a serious way, for sure! Now I've got this "thingy" hanging out of my chest, and it's danged uncomfortable! Further more it's going to make many things inconvenient if not impossible.
On the "off the list of things I can do" is much activity involving my arms...like golf , swimming, swatting at flies, etc. Also, taking a shower is out! I have to keep the area clean and dry, so it's tub baths or wash rags or stinkin'! Since going outside at this time of year involves persperation, I reckon I'm also sorta housebound, too. Mutter, mutter.
Then there's the whole process of trying to sleep with this contraption and the potential of rolling over on that side - that's going to startle me wide awake, cause this thing hurts a bit.
But listen to me crabbing, in the middle of a medical miracle! Just a few years ago, I'd have been on the other side of the turf, nine years after diagnosis with bone cancer. Forgive me Lord!
But even so, Lord, I'd like to get a little better accustomed to this, please! And, next week, when they go to spinning off my stem cells, please let there be only cancer free stem cells collected, and re-introduced into my body on Aug 5th. And all to your praise and glory! Thanks!
Now we're really in this for keeps! Now they've messed with my body in a serious way, for sure! Now I've got this "thingy" hanging out of my chest, and it's danged uncomfortable! Further more it's going to make many things inconvenient if not impossible.
On the "off the list of things I can do" is much activity involving my arms...like golf , swimming, swatting at flies, etc. Also, taking a shower is out! I have to keep the area clean and dry, so it's tub baths or wash rags or stinkin'! Since going outside at this time of year involves persperation, I reckon I'm also sorta housebound, too. Mutter, mutter.
Then there's the whole process of trying to sleep with this contraption and the potential of rolling over on that side - that's going to startle me wide awake, cause this thing hurts a bit.
But listen to me crabbing, in the middle of a medical miracle! Just a few years ago, I'd have been on the other side of the turf, nine years after diagnosis with bone cancer. Forgive me Lord!
But even so, Lord, I'd like to get a little better accustomed to this, please! And, next week, when they go to spinning off my stem cells, please let there be only cancer free stem cells collected, and re-introduced into my body on Aug 5th. And all to your praise and glory! Thanks!
Monday, July 19, 2010
Blog #4 - July 19
Dear Friends and Family:
Getting into the week of "real stuff" happens. Wednesday, I get the results of the last of my tests done last week. The bone marrow biopsy, last week, was painful, particularly since they had to do it twice. Double oowwwie! But the results were very good - the numbers are way down: less than "point one percent" malignancy in the marrow. Lungs and heart muscle checked out, too.
I also have my veins (in the arms) examined - if they are big enough, I won't have to have a centrol line placed in my chest. If not big enough, I'll have the line put in Thursday - day surgery..
I get four days of Nupegin shots - twice a day, 8a.m. and 8 p.m. That draws the stem cells out of the marrow into the periphery blood system. I don't know exactly how I'll feel at that time, but I guess I'll feel something!
Apherisis, the drawing out of my blood, spinning off of the stem cells, and the return of the remaining cells (red, white, platelets) to the blood system is next. Takes 3 or 4 days, four hrs/day (like dialysis). We're looking to harvest 2 million stem cells, 3 million is better, 5 million gives us enough to repeat this 5-8 years down the path. Of course, we're praying that it will never need to be repeated!
On the 2nd of August, I enter isolation and begin 2 days Melforin, the "killer drug" that kills off all cells in the marrow. 4th is a day of rest. August 5 is "day zero," the reintroduction of my stem cells into the blood stream, and the beginning of my body healing itself by these stem cells making healthy new white and red cells, and platelets in the correct number and balance.
Sometime during that process, I or Amy will let you know how it's going.
Thanks for many expressions of love and prayer,
In the Lord's peace and love,
Dick
Getting into the week of "real stuff" happens. Wednesday, I get the results of the last of my tests done last week. The bone marrow biopsy, last week, was painful, particularly since they had to do it twice. Double oowwwie! But the results were very good - the numbers are way down: less than "point one percent" malignancy in the marrow. Lungs and heart muscle checked out, too.
I also have my veins (in the arms) examined - if they are big enough, I won't have to have a centrol line placed in my chest. If not big enough, I'll have the line put in Thursday - day surgery..
I get four days of Nupegin shots - twice a day, 8a.m. and 8 p.m. That draws the stem cells out of the marrow into the periphery blood system. I don't know exactly how I'll feel at that time, but I guess I'll feel something!
Apherisis, the drawing out of my blood, spinning off of the stem cells, and the return of the remaining cells (red, white, platelets) to the blood system is next. Takes 3 or 4 days, four hrs/day (like dialysis). We're looking to harvest 2 million stem cells, 3 million is better, 5 million gives us enough to repeat this 5-8 years down the path. Of course, we're praying that it will never need to be repeated!
On the 2nd of August, I enter isolation and begin 2 days Melforin, the "killer drug" that kills off all cells in the marrow. 4th is a day of rest. August 5 is "day zero," the reintroduction of my stem cells into the blood stream, and the beginning of my body healing itself by these stem cells making healthy new white and red cells, and platelets in the correct number and balance.
Sometime during that process, I or Amy will let you know how it's going.
Thanks for many expressions of love and prayer,
In the Lord's peace and love,
Dick
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Blog #3 Time gets neaerer 13 July
Dear Ones:
When last I blogged, I was on the cusp of what I had heard was going to be a terribly painful prostate biopsy. Done week before last, it's hardly worth mentioning. Uncomfortable, a bit, but painful...not in the least. Of the dozen snipits taken, however, one had a 1% malignancy. So, the urologist says we should repeat the biopsy in another couple of months, but that's when I am going to be rather puny from the stem-cell transplant.
So, what to do about the prostate cancer in the meantime? Urologist says, and myeloma doctor concurs, I take a series of shots of Luperon that stymies (stultifies? freezes?) the prostate cancer until I am well enough recovered from the stem-cell transplant to address it. More stuff in the system. Doc says a possible side effect is like "hot flashes." Am I going to get weepy, too? O boy! Nuff said about that.
Tomorrow, I begin the x-rays, the MRIs, the lung and pulmonary tests, plus another bone marrow biopsy (ouch!). Prayers then are going to be very helpful! Thanks!
The Lord is our great physician! He will be with us throughout, but thanks for your love, prayers, concerns, and support. We really feel them!
Blessings and peace to you all,
Dick 'n Amy
When last I blogged, I was on the cusp of what I had heard was going to be a terribly painful prostate biopsy. Done week before last, it's hardly worth mentioning. Uncomfortable, a bit, but painful...not in the least. Of the dozen snipits taken, however, one had a 1% malignancy. So, the urologist says we should repeat the biopsy in another couple of months, but that's when I am going to be rather puny from the stem-cell transplant.
So, what to do about the prostate cancer in the meantime? Urologist says, and myeloma doctor concurs, I take a series of shots of Luperon that stymies (stultifies? freezes?) the prostate cancer until I am well enough recovered from the stem-cell transplant to address it. More stuff in the system. Doc says a possible side effect is like "hot flashes." Am I going to get weepy, too? O boy! Nuff said about that.
Tomorrow, I begin the x-rays, the MRIs, the lung and pulmonary tests, plus another bone marrow biopsy (ouch!). Prayers then are going to be very helpful! Thanks!
The Lord is our great physician! He will be with us throughout, but thanks for your love, prayers, concerns, and support. We really feel them!
Blessings and peace to you all,
Dick 'n Amy
Monday, June 28, 2010
Blog #2
Dear Family, friends, boys & girls, prayer warriors, idle curious, etc.
Well, there are not things in my life that don't have additional aspects; i.e., not only am I going to do a stemcell transplant in August for the bone cancer, I now have to be concerned about the ol' prostate as well. Seems that in one of the recent blood screenings, my PSA was 4.0 from 2.4 the previous year. A second PSA went down to 3.8, but a third PSA was up to 4.3.
"We want a prostate biopsy!," says Amy.
"Who's this 'we' you're referring to?" says I. But, you know who won the day in that brief exchange. Of course Amy's right, so, tomorrow a.m. (Tuesday) I suffer that indignity south of the belt line. No riding the bike tomorrow afternoon, I'm told.
All my male "friends" have assured me there's no greater pain known to mankind, but my female friends counter with, "try having a baby, sissie!" Neither are particularly comforting.
I suppose the results of this could alter the bone marrow transplant timing, but I don't know. I get all the re-staging test done in the last two weeks of July, which includes a bone marrow biopsy, which I already know hurts like fury.
But on to more cheerful news. All this is in the Lord's hands, and I know He is especially fond of me. It is well with my soul!
Peace and joy! Thanks for your prayers!
Dick/Dad
Dick/
Well, there are not things in my life that don't have additional aspects; i.e., not only am I going to do a stemcell transplant in August for the bone cancer, I now have to be concerned about the ol' prostate as well. Seems that in one of the recent blood screenings, my PSA was 4.0 from 2.4 the previous year. A second PSA went down to 3.8, but a third PSA was up to 4.3.
"We want a prostate biopsy!," says Amy.
"Who's this 'we' you're referring to?" says I. But, you know who won the day in that brief exchange. Of course Amy's right, so, tomorrow a.m. (Tuesday) I suffer that indignity south of the belt line. No riding the bike tomorrow afternoon, I'm told.
All my male "friends" have assured me there's no greater pain known to mankind, but my female friends counter with, "try having a baby, sissie!" Neither are particularly comforting.
I suppose the results of this could alter the bone marrow transplant timing, but I don't know. I get all the re-staging test done in the last two weeks of July, which includes a bone marrow biopsy, which I already know hurts like fury.
But on to more cheerful news. All this is in the Lord's hands, and I know He is especially fond of me. It is well with my soul!
Peace and joy! Thanks for your prayers!
Dick/Dad
Dick/
Sunday, June 20, 2010
First try at blogging
Dear folks, family, friends, etc.
Had wonderful Father's day. First Church, then home to open some terrific presents, and then out to lunch with our friend Cornelia Kyser at a local Mexican Restaurant. Then home for a nice nap, a phone call from Becky, Pat, and Clara. And now to this attempt at blogging. So, here you have it. Don't have any pictures to include, but wouldn't know how to do it anyway.
You have received this as a maiden voyage attempt. If you wish to be excluded from the list, you are out of the will, too. So, please respond. Hokay?
Thanks!
Your loving blogmaster...
Dad
Had wonderful Father's day. First Church, then home to open some terrific presents, and then out to lunch with our friend Cornelia Kyser at a local Mexican Restaurant. Then home for a nice nap, a phone call from Becky, Pat, and Clara. And now to this attempt at blogging. So, here you have it. Don't have any pictures to include, but wouldn't know how to do it anyway.
You have received this as a maiden voyage attempt. If you wish to be excluded from the list, you are out of the will, too. So, please respond. Hokay?
Thanks!
Your loving blogmaster...
Dad
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