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
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