We got a call about 9:00 a.m. informing us to be at the hospital at 1:15. We waited and prayed. More emails came in to Joan and me with an outpouring of support. It was overwhelming. A brother-in-law called to pray over the phone with us. Thanks Bob.
My co-workers were just informed today of my situation. We are geographically spread out, but thank God we are coming together in prayer. It’s awesome to work at a place with fellow believers.
Pastors Duane and Steve came by to pray with us before we left for Parkview. Pastor Steve read from Isaiah 41:13 “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” What inspiring words!
I was being wheeled on a hospital bed from the prep area to the hospital surgery area. It's a long way through many hallways. There was a short area where there were some windows to the outside. I really wanted to see outside. I was able to see the sky briefly. I asked for a sign – something to let me know He was there, I just wanted some assurance that He had this. I didn't get a sign. I got a word instead. I was looking for something in the sky, instead this ran through my head, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” It’s from Hebrews 13:5 (KJV). That’s all I needed, no signs were required. I was fine after that. God is so good.
We know a bit more now, but we still do not have the whole picture. I had a stent inserted. It is a wire mesh device that opens up the esophagus so I can swallow food more easily. Dr. Sharma said that it appears that the cancer has spread to the liver. He is certain that we will start with chemo soon. We meet with the navigator and the nutritionist tomorrow (Tuesday). I am scheduled for a PET scan on Wednesday morning, again looking for any additional spread of the cancer. We meet with one or maybe two oncologists on Friday.
When I was waking up from the anesthesia, I was in a lot of pain and discomfort. The pain left as soon as the anesthesia wore off. The discomfort in my throat left after I drank a numbing solution. Liquids are all I get the rest of today. I get more substantial liquids for the next two days and then I finally get some soft foods after that.
As Dr. Sharma shared the news with Joan, he said something to the effect, “anyone who knows me, knows I'm not arrogant, but I'm just so glad that I'm Bill’s doctor…that I get to take care of him…this is what I do.” Joan shared with him that we both have a great deal of faith. Dr. Sharma looked right at her and said, “Then it must have been the Lord who wanted me to be the one to take care of him.” Prayer works. God hears and He cares.
Bill, I am one of Joan's cousins. My family nick name is Ria. On fb I am Angie Rush. Anyway, just saw these posts and wanted to tell you a Reader's Digest version of my story. Was diagnosed w/ malignant melanoma in 1977 when my son was 4 months old. Had 10 surgeries and the last was a left radical neck procedure which found 6 out of 20 lymph nodes positive for metastasis. Not good! The cancer started on my cheek in front of my left ear.The cancer had spread to my neck. The docs told me I had 2-3 months to live in Dec of 1980! By the grace of God, I am still alive!!!! I had faith that God would save me because my son needed me. He is 39 now. There are no words to express my gratitude to God for allowing me to live and be married to the most incredible man! My husband married me knowing my diagnosis and told me we would deal with cancer together. My son's father left us after the last surgery. He was not able to deal with it. I have been married to Larry for 34 yrs and he is part of why I'm still here.
ReplyDeleteA cancer diagnosis is hard to process, I know. From what I can gather from reading Joan's fb posts, it seems as though you have a wonderful family and support system in place which will give you cushion you need when times get tough. My throat was affected by the radiation and many surgeries and diagnostic testing. It was hard to swallow but found the liquid meals like Carnation Instant breakfast and the like mixed with ice cream were soothing and nourishing.
Please know I am praying for healing for you as well as peace in accepting this trial. if you ever want to talk about your cancer fight or mine , I would like the opportunity to know you and give you what ever support I can.
Blessings to you and Joan,
Ria AKA Angie Rush
Thank you for reaching out to me. Your post came through while we were waiting at the hospital today. What a wonderful testimony you have of God's graciousness in sparing your life. You inspired me today when I really wasn't feeling that great. I'm amazed at how God has sent so many people alongside to encourage me. Praise God and thank you, Ria.
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