Sunday, August 29, 2010
Friday, August 27, 2010
Health Update - 27 August 2010
Dear Friends,
I'll be honest with you; this week has been an up and down proposition. On Monday, I received advanced notice that my Friday CT scan did not look promising. In fact, several doctor friends of mine were suggesting that I abandon the program for according to the radiologist report, the cancer was growing again. However, on Wednesday morning, I met with my oncologist, Anna, and she had a different reading of the scan, explaining that much of what the radiologist interpreted as tissue, to her appeared to be fluid. Indeed, she confirmed that we have not experienced the shrinkage that we had hoped for; however, that by her read, the cancerous growth was insignificant. Therefore, Tracey and I decided to stay with the trial alittle longer.
However, as a result of this incident, it caused us to begin to fast track our deliberations and actions toward a "Plan B". One of which has been to investigate Dr. Thomas Vogl's treatment in Frankfurt, Germany. As a result of both phone conversations and emails, I received word that I meet his protocols and would be welcomed into his trial program. I later emailed him with the question as to whether any of those in the trial possessed the rarer mesothelioma sarcomitiod (which is what I have) to which he answered that four of his patients were and that they had experienced good results. This represents a revelation in that even the effective programs generally don't enjoy success with sarcommitiod like mine.
Kirk, my brother, summed it up this way, "It sounds like it now more a matter of "when" than "if" I will visit Frankfurt. I believe that's a fair statement.
Prayers points:
1) By remaining in the exisiting trial, I'm buying time because the cancer is being held in check and I'm keeping Anna, my oncologist, on side with me and it allows us time to manage the necessary planning for a 6 week stay in Germany.
2) I've initiated another gathering of my advisory group composed of special friends and medical advisors to assist me and Tracey in our deliberations for the future as well as batheing these important decisions in prayers. I refuse to rush into any decision; I want to spend ample time seeking God's face in all matters.
3) With the poor news at the start of week, it's knocked us around a bit but we thank God that just when we needed an infusion of hope, Dr. Vogl's reply came to us Tuesday night. This is a praise point: Thank Lord that you didn't forget me.
4) On Wednesday, I had my third chemo infusion and it always takes its toll; but I'm happy to say that so far so good. Pray that I can make to the weekend in good nick.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your prayers. The way God is working is no accident and I credit God's grace and the prayers of His people in sustaining me day by day.
If you want, go to the Subi Church website and listen to Tracey's presentation as she addressed the services at Subi on the weekend and was brilliant. We agreed that God is using this time in a special way; it's a hard time, but a good time as well.
Praise the Lord for that.
All my love to you,
Yours in Christ,
Graham
I'll be honest with you; this week has been an up and down proposition. On Monday, I received advanced notice that my Friday CT scan did not look promising. In fact, several doctor friends of mine were suggesting that I abandon the program for according to the radiologist report, the cancer was growing again. However, on Wednesday morning, I met with my oncologist, Anna, and she had a different reading of the scan, explaining that much of what the radiologist interpreted as tissue, to her appeared to be fluid. Indeed, she confirmed that we have not experienced the shrinkage that we had hoped for; however, that by her read, the cancerous growth was insignificant. Therefore, Tracey and I decided to stay with the trial alittle longer.
However, as a result of this incident, it caused us to begin to fast track our deliberations and actions toward a "Plan B". One of which has been to investigate Dr. Thomas Vogl's treatment in Frankfurt, Germany. As a result of both phone conversations and emails, I received word that I meet his protocols and would be welcomed into his trial program. I later emailed him with the question as to whether any of those in the trial possessed the rarer mesothelioma sarcomitiod (which is what I have) to which he answered that four of his patients were and that they had experienced good results. This represents a revelation in that even the effective programs generally don't enjoy success with sarcommitiod like mine.
Kirk, my brother, summed it up this way, "It sounds like it now more a matter of "when" than "if" I will visit Frankfurt. I believe that's a fair statement.
Prayers points:
1) By remaining in the exisiting trial, I'm buying time because the cancer is being held in check and I'm keeping Anna, my oncologist, on side with me and it allows us time to manage the necessary planning for a 6 week stay in Germany.
2) I've initiated another gathering of my advisory group composed of special friends and medical advisors to assist me and Tracey in our deliberations for the future as well as batheing these important decisions in prayers. I refuse to rush into any decision; I want to spend ample time seeking God's face in all matters.
3) With the poor news at the start of week, it's knocked us around a bit but we thank God that just when we needed an infusion of hope, Dr. Vogl's reply came to us Tuesday night. This is a praise point: Thank Lord that you didn't forget me.
4) On Wednesday, I had my third chemo infusion and it always takes its toll; but I'm happy to say that so far so good. Pray that I can make to the weekend in good nick.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your prayers. The way God is working is no accident and I credit God's grace and the prayers of His people in sustaining me day by day.
If you want, go to the Subi Church website and listen to Tracey's presentation as she addressed the services at Subi on the weekend and was brilliant. We agreed that God is using this time in a special way; it's a hard time, but a good time as well.
Praise the Lord for that.
All my love to you,
Yours in Christ,
Graham
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Wendell's Thoughts
Wendell & Martha Johnston (Graham's parents) visited the family in Perth from June 25 to July 27, 2010. The following are Wendell's thoughts.
Character Trumps Giftedness
Serious illness often comes unexpectedly. When it hits us or someone we love it can bring out the best in us or it can reveal some weakness in our character. Good health is a gift from God. We may take some credit for developing and maintaining our physical bodies, but serious disease often strikes healthy people. Sickness teaches us some valuable lessons and it allows God to work in ways we never imagined or planned.
Graham, you are a gifted man. You are a superb communicator. God has given you wisdom beyond your years. You have obvious leadership abilities. Your relational skills and your intelligence are at the top of the chart. You have accomplished so much for the Lord in your years of ministry. You have given yourself to the people of Subi church, and you have been available to many others around the world through your teaching endeavors. These gifts and abilities are from the Lord and I know that you give Him all the credit.
In light of all your gifts and abilities why would the Lord allow this to happen to you? Watching Tracey, Paige, and Carson care for you during these days is special. They are expressing their love to you in new ways. Their commitment to share with you in your struggle with cancer enables you to see the deep love and respect they have for you. To see the outpouring of love from so many of the people in Subi church has to be rewarding to you. Since you have served them in a variety of ways, they now have a chance to serve you. I am awed by the love and generosity of your friends. Many pastors serve for years and never see the depth of love and gratitude people have for them. The response from people all over the world continues to amaze your mother and me. God has pulled back the curtain so you can see the body of Christ at work through prayer. Your illness has touched many people and has brought them to their knees. This is just one way God is glorified through your struggle.
Jesus called 12 men and gifted them. He called them for fellowship and ministry (Mark 3:14). He gave them the ability to serve Him. He also called 72 people and sent them out to serve Him (Luke 10:1-24). He gave them power over evil spirits and the ability to cast them out. When they returned from serving Him, they were ecstatic about their giftedness. Even the demons submitted to them because they ministered in the name of the Lord. Jesus replied to their reactions by saying, “do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” Jesus was teaching them that who they were because of their faith in God was more significant than what they did. Character trumps giftedness. The apostle Paul states this truth in 1 Corinthians 12-13. He begins by explaining that gifts are given sovereignly by the triune God and that the church should desire the more significant gifts (The “you” is plural in 12:31, suggesting that leaders in the church should emphasize the gifts that have the greatest value for the congregation). Then Paul says, “now I will show you a more excellent way.” The apostle goes on to describe love as superior to all giftedness (1 Cor. 13). Faith, hope, and love are character issues and they trump all gifts.
Just today in the Dallas Morning News there was an article about Tom Landry, coach of the Dallas Cowboys. As you know, Tom was a Dallas Seminary Board member for many years and a devoted believer in Christ. The article quoted Alicia Landry, his wife. “He (Tom) believed character and integrity had as much to do with success as talent did, and that’s the kind of players he had around him. People saw that it worked.” Even in the sports world, character trumps giftedness.
Graham, you have been chosen by the Lord to serve Him. He has gifted you abundantly. This is obvious to anyone who knows about your ministry. Now, in the midst of serious illness we have an opportunity to see your character—who you really are. How you have responded to this cancer tells me more about you than anything you have accomplished through the gifts God has given you.
As devastating as your illness is you haven’t looked at yourself as a victim. Both you and Tracey have acknowledged that God is good and gracious even in the face of illness. Your desire for God to be honored and glorified through this speaks to the depth of your love for Christ. This is godliness at its best.
Sickness and suffering can bring out the best and the worst in us. Some of these good things I see in you are: (1) You have courage. You are determined to fight this disease and you are willing to do whatever it takes to overcome this aggressive cancer. (2) You are not trying to find someone or something to blame for this illness. God has allowed this for a purpose. This sickness is not because of some terrible sin you have committed or because you have displeased God. As David said in Psalm 103, “He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.” (3) Your reflection on the goodness and faithfulness of God is clearly revealed in your attitude and in the reports you have sent to the people of Subi Church. (4) Your love for the Lord has deepened and this is evidenced by your strong faith in your God. (5) Your appreciation of the many tributes and expressions of love reveals a humble spirit and makes it very appealing to your friends to minister to you during this time.
The battle is not over and the challenge remains. The days ahead may be even more difficult than the past few months. The “newness” wears off and the routine sets in. You must guard against impatience. It is easy to become irritated as time drags on and recovery seems so slow. There will be times when those around you, whom you love and cherish, will find the struggle equally challenging. They may not feel the pain and struggle as you do and may not know how to respond to you. You can help them through words and expressions of love and appreciation. There are some things that you alone must endure and your attitude and actions can make it easier for them to live with you through these trying times. I think we all fight the urge for self-pity, but this attitude never enhances our life and those around us. With the Lord’s help you can make this phase of your life a blessing.
One of the delights for Mom and me was to see the way you and Ben bonded during his time in Perth. His unselfish desire to serve you brought great pleasure to us. This is something parents dream about but rarely see it happen.
Our hearts, love and prayers are with you as we continue this journey together.
Wendell Johnston
25 August 2010
Character Trumps Giftedness
Serious illness often comes unexpectedly. When it hits us or someone we love it can bring out the best in us or it can reveal some weakness in our character. Good health is a gift from God. We may take some credit for developing and maintaining our physical bodies, but serious disease often strikes healthy people. Sickness teaches us some valuable lessons and it allows God to work in ways we never imagined or planned.
Graham, you are a gifted man. You are a superb communicator. God has given you wisdom beyond your years. You have obvious leadership abilities. Your relational skills and your intelligence are at the top of the chart. You have accomplished so much for the Lord in your years of ministry. You have given yourself to the people of Subi church, and you have been available to many others around the world through your teaching endeavors. These gifts and abilities are from the Lord and I know that you give Him all the credit.
In light of all your gifts and abilities why would the Lord allow this to happen to you? Watching Tracey, Paige, and Carson care for you during these days is special. They are expressing their love to you in new ways. Their commitment to share with you in your struggle with cancer enables you to see the deep love and respect they have for you. To see the outpouring of love from so many of the people in Subi church has to be rewarding to you. Since you have served them in a variety of ways, they now have a chance to serve you. I am awed by the love and generosity of your friends. Many pastors serve for years and never see the depth of love and gratitude people have for them. The response from people all over the world continues to amaze your mother and me. God has pulled back the curtain so you can see the body of Christ at work through prayer. Your illness has touched many people and has brought them to their knees. This is just one way God is glorified through your struggle.
Jesus called 12 men and gifted them. He called them for fellowship and ministry (Mark 3:14). He gave them the ability to serve Him. He also called 72 people and sent them out to serve Him (Luke 10:1-24). He gave them power over evil spirits and the ability to cast them out. When they returned from serving Him, they were ecstatic about their giftedness. Even the demons submitted to them because they ministered in the name of the Lord. Jesus replied to their reactions by saying, “do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” Jesus was teaching them that who they were because of their faith in God was more significant than what they did. Character trumps giftedness. The apostle Paul states this truth in 1 Corinthians 12-13. He begins by explaining that gifts are given sovereignly by the triune God and that the church should desire the more significant gifts (The “you” is plural in 12:31, suggesting that leaders in the church should emphasize the gifts that have the greatest value for the congregation). Then Paul says, “now I will show you a more excellent way.” The apostle goes on to describe love as superior to all giftedness (1 Cor. 13). Faith, hope, and love are character issues and they trump all gifts.
Just today in the Dallas Morning News there was an article about Tom Landry, coach of the Dallas Cowboys. As you know, Tom was a Dallas Seminary Board member for many years and a devoted believer in Christ. The article quoted Alicia Landry, his wife. “He (Tom) believed character and integrity had as much to do with success as talent did, and that’s the kind of players he had around him. People saw that it worked.” Even in the sports world, character trumps giftedness.
Graham, you have been chosen by the Lord to serve Him. He has gifted you abundantly. This is obvious to anyone who knows about your ministry. Now, in the midst of serious illness we have an opportunity to see your character—who you really are. How you have responded to this cancer tells me more about you than anything you have accomplished through the gifts God has given you.
As devastating as your illness is you haven’t looked at yourself as a victim. Both you and Tracey have acknowledged that God is good and gracious even in the face of illness. Your desire for God to be honored and glorified through this speaks to the depth of your love for Christ. This is godliness at its best.
Sickness and suffering can bring out the best and the worst in us. Some of these good things I see in you are: (1) You have courage. You are determined to fight this disease and you are willing to do whatever it takes to overcome this aggressive cancer. (2) You are not trying to find someone or something to blame for this illness. God has allowed this for a purpose. This sickness is not because of some terrible sin you have committed or because you have displeased God. As David said in Psalm 103, “He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.” (3) Your reflection on the goodness and faithfulness of God is clearly revealed in your attitude and in the reports you have sent to the people of Subi Church. (4) Your love for the Lord has deepened and this is evidenced by your strong faith in your God. (5) Your appreciation of the many tributes and expressions of love reveals a humble spirit and makes it very appealing to your friends to minister to you during this time.
The battle is not over and the challenge remains. The days ahead may be even more difficult than the past few months. The “newness” wears off and the routine sets in. You must guard against impatience. It is easy to become irritated as time drags on and recovery seems so slow. There will be times when those around you, whom you love and cherish, will find the struggle equally challenging. They may not feel the pain and struggle as you do and may not know how to respond to you. You can help them through words and expressions of love and appreciation. There are some things that you alone must endure and your attitude and actions can make it easier for them to live with you through these trying times. I think we all fight the urge for self-pity, but this attitude never enhances our life and those around us. With the Lord’s help you can make this phase of your life a blessing.
One of the delights for Mom and me was to see the way you and Ben bonded during his time in Perth. His unselfish desire to serve you brought great pleasure to us. This is something parents dream about but rarely see it happen.
Our hearts, love and prayers are with you as we continue this journey together.
Wendell Johnston
25 August 2010
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Health Update - 14 August 2010
Dear friends,
I've been reflecting on my health journey which began in earnest on June 1st. When first diagnosed, Tracey and I had to find ways to absorb words like "terminal"; "palliative care"; "inoperable". Initially, the dark weight threatened to tip us into despair. One of my responses was a simple prayer: "Lord, all I ask for is a fighting chance. Would you grant me a fighting chance to beat this illness?" When so many in this world are told the word, mesothelioma, it comes as a death sentence, followed by the words, "Go home and get your affairs in order."
I sit here now and marvel that God has provided me, not only with a fighting chance, but with treatment options, some of the world's best medical options. Through networks and existing relationships, God was going ahead of me long before I ever even dreamt of a rare cancer. I can't tell you how humble and grateful I am to the Lord. In Psalm 40, David writes, "I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry." Out of what David describes as "the slimy pit", (The Lord) gave me a firm place to stand." God's grace and mercy continues to amaze me.
I'm currently nearing the end of my second cycle in what is a six cycle treatment totalling 18 weeks.
In the coming week, I'll receive a CT scan to mark the progress of the CD-40 trial. Obviously, we're praying for a positive outcome.
The second chemo treatment coupled with the CD-40 infusion really rocked me this past week, but praise God, I'm doing so much better now.
As I enter this treatment period which represents a calm in the storm, here's how you can pray for me.
I've been reflecting on my health journey which began in earnest on June 1st. When first diagnosed, Tracey and I had to find ways to absorb words like "terminal"; "palliative care"; "inoperable". Initially, the dark weight threatened to tip us into despair. One of my responses was a simple prayer: "Lord, all I ask for is a fighting chance. Would you grant me a fighting chance to beat this illness?" When so many in this world are told the word, mesothelioma, it comes as a death sentence, followed by the words, "Go home and get your affairs in order."
I sit here now and marvel that God has provided me, not only with a fighting chance, but with treatment options, some of the world's best medical options. Through networks and existing relationships, God was going ahead of me long before I ever even dreamt of a rare cancer. I can't tell you how humble and grateful I am to the Lord. In Psalm 40, David writes, "I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry." Out of what David describes as "the slimy pit", (The Lord) gave me a firm place to stand." God's grace and mercy continues to amaze me.
I'm currently nearing the end of my second cycle in what is a six cycle treatment totalling 18 weeks.
In the coming week, I'll receive a CT scan to mark the progress of the CD-40 trial. Obviously, we're praying for a positive outcome.
The second chemo treatment coupled with the CD-40 infusion really rocked me this past week, but praise God, I'm doing so much better now.
As I enter this treatment period which represents a calm in the storm, here's how you can pray for me.
- I'd like to put some weight back on; pray that I'll be fully capable of eating healthily and exercising every day.
- I'd like to be productive and get some writing done, particularly with my good friend, Martin Sanders, in town.
- Pray that I'll create the space for meditation; biblical reflection; and soul rejuvenation daily.
The Lord has granted me the fighting chance I asked for; however, I must never forget, my hope lies not in my strength; discipline; or relative youth, but in the Lord. Please, keep me in your prayers.
Yours in Christ,
Graham
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Health Update - 8 August 2010
My Dear Friends,
I want to say upfront that this has been a good week. At times, I can awake from a sleep and as I lie in bed, it can still seem like a dream. "I'm not really that ill, am I?" "Whose's life is this again?" Then, the Lord gently reminds me, "Yes, son, but I'm with you and I will never forsake you".
On Wednesday, I began my second cycle of chemo but before commencing the next cycle, I underwent a PET scan to check my progress. Well, it's pretty good news. The downside is that the cancer didn't shrink but there are four positives. One, the cancer's growth has been stopped, which is something because it was growing out of control prior to commencing the treatment. Two, it's not spread to any new areas. Three, my oncologist, Anna, was pleased that the "hot spots" showing the densest cancer activity seemed to have cooled down. This pleased her greatly. Four, the cancer has moved away from the damaged ribs and the ribs seem to be healing and I'm enjoying less pain.
So what does this mean? It's a positive step in a long journey. Despite what some may say, I'm in this for the long haul. This is reminder to me and hopefully to you, that prayer works. Don't give up on me. God willing, we together can beat this thing and when we do, the people of Subi Church and all those gathered in spirit will stand together in corporate worship; we will raise our hands, and sing at the top of our lungs "How Great is Our God" because all the glory will go to Him.
On Friday, I received another ozone therapy and I'm already enjoying the benefits of this treatment to enable me through the chemo. This Wednesday, I receive my next infusion of the CD-40 trial drug. Pray that all will go well and that this treatment will have even greater impact as we progress forward.
On a sad note, my brother Ben, will be departing Perth on Tuesday. Ben has simply hung out, sat with me; served me; and done all within his power to help me through this time. Proverbs speaks of a friend who is closer than a brother. I'm just fortunate enough that friend to me is my brother.
Blessings on you all.
To His glory,
Graham
I want to say upfront that this has been a good week. At times, I can awake from a sleep and as I lie in bed, it can still seem like a dream. "I'm not really that ill, am I?" "Whose's life is this again?" Then, the Lord gently reminds me, "Yes, son, but I'm with you and I will never forsake you".
On Wednesday, I began my second cycle of chemo but before commencing the next cycle, I underwent a PET scan to check my progress. Well, it's pretty good news. The downside is that the cancer didn't shrink but there are four positives. One, the cancer's growth has been stopped, which is something because it was growing out of control prior to commencing the treatment. Two, it's not spread to any new areas. Three, my oncologist, Anna, was pleased that the "hot spots" showing the densest cancer activity seemed to have cooled down. This pleased her greatly. Four, the cancer has moved away from the damaged ribs and the ribs seem to be healing and I'm enjoying less pain.
So what does this mean? It's a positive step in a long journey. Despite what some may say, I'm in this for the long haul. This is reminder to me and hopefully to you, that prayer works. Don't give up on me. God willing, we together can beat this thing and when we do, the people of Subi Church and all those gathered in spirit will stand together in corporate worship; we will raise our hands, and sing at the top of our lungs "How Great is Our God" because all the glory will go to Him.
On Friday, I received another ozone therapy and I'm already enjoying the benefits of this treatment to enable me through the chemo. This Wednesday, I receive my next infusion of the CD-40 trial drug. Pray that all will go well and that this treatment will have even greater impact as we progress forward.
On a sad note, my brother Ben, will be departing Perth on Tuesday. Ben has simply hung out, sat with me; served me; and done all within his power to help me through this time. Proverbs speaks of a friend who is closer than a brother. I'm just fortunate enough that friend to me is my brother.
Blessings on you all.
To His glory,
Graham
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