A Special Day in Our Lives
Today is a significant day in our lives. The date will be given a special place in our collective memories along with our marriage anniversary, the birth dates of all our 5 children, and the loss dates of miscarried children now in heaven. Today marks the end of my personal cancer journey. Four years after being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, and three years after ending chemotherapy and radiation treatments, I have graduated from oncology care.
The past 4 years our lives have been marked with trips to the Medical Specialty Clinic in Jackson for regular checkups and blood tests. The appointments have grown farther apart over time as symptoms did not return and tests were positive. We were blessed to enjoy unsurpassed medical care from our Oncologist, Dr. Clyde Smith, and all the nurses and lad specialists there, as well as the incredible staff at the Jackson-Madison County General Hospital Cancer Center. Our gratitude to them knows no bounds. They are truly special care-givers.
According to the oncologist’s report today, I have less than a 1% chance of the lymphoma recurring. I am released from his specialized care and will need no more cancer checkups. After today, a normal yearly physical is all that is required to maintain a watch on my health, and can be obtained through our primary care physician.
As we reflect on this odyssey, we can trace the mighty hand of God in every detail. His grace was always present with us, even through the dark days of despair while suffering chemotherapy. His presence was always felt, even when I suffered and considered giving up. His love and compassion were manifested through countless friends. Their ministry to me often made the difference when I debated giving up or hanging on. Many churches and people I have never met lifted our ordeal faithfully in prayer for months. In an incredible turn of events I would have never expected, God has recently led us to serve one of the most faithful of those praying churches. God’s provision repeatedly astounded and humbled us as it came from the most unexpected of sources. Although costs for my care approached $250K, we currently owe just over $3000 on an interest-free account. Many who have known me before “the cancer days” agree that I am a different person. I would agree. I see life differently now. I value my family and my time with them much more. I see greater value in others and am more sympathetic to their suffering. God has grown me in ways I believe were impossible apart from an extended period of suffering and trusting.
I have made the following statement many times in conversation and while preaching, but allow me to go on record here by penning the words: I AM THANKFUL FOR THE EXPERIENCE AND WHAT GOD HAS ACCOMPLISHED THROUGH IT. To Him be the glory!!
