Psalm 71:1-4 In you, O Lord, do I take refuge; let me never be put to shame! In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; incline your ear to me, and save me! Be to me a rock of refuge, to which I may continually come; you have given the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress.
We have just returned from seeing the doctor at the cancer clinic.
He had good news for us again. The CT Scan which we underwent last Tuesday showed that all the remaining cancer in the pelvic bone and kidney has reduced. For this we praise our God.
We also learned from the doctor that the plan is to stay the course, that is, to continue to take the chemo pill for four week periods with two weeks rest in between until, hopefully, the cancer completely disappears.
The doctor has reduced the dosage hoping that in this way the pain in the feet will not lead to in ability to get around as it did the last time.
One of the noteworthy comments the doctor made was that it appeared to him that I am one of the 'lucky' ones. I explained to him that I have a rather strong faith system and that I would attribute the healing to that rather than luck.
We continue to praise God for the wonderful work He is doing in our lives.
We firmly believe that it is His good pleasure to use the doctors and the medication to see that His will is done.
We thank so many of you who have continued to show interest in our well-being, who have encouraged us with well chosen words, etc. We also see the Lord at work in our lives in that way.
Rita and I would like to take this opportunity to point you back to the words with which I began this blog, the words from Psalm 71. They certainly apply to God's work of healing from cancer that was considered by experts to leave me with only about five months of life on this earth after July 30. Well, the Lord, had a different plan and through the prayers of the saints and His good pleasure He has extended my life. Praise be to Him. But even more importantly He has healed us from sin, a cancer that affects us all.
At this time of year our society celebrates Christmas. It has the word Christ in it but sadly so litte of His work is remembered. But for all those who believe He is salvation from the effects of sin, from now on into eternity. Praise be to Him. We hope that you will all celebrate fully that aspect of Christmas, for only then will you have a truly joyous Christmas and a blessed 2011.
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.
Pieter de Boer
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Thursday, November 25, 2010
November 25, 2010
Greetings to All:
Today I am at the mid-point of my third four-week chemo regimen. As you all know, the Lord has been using this regimen to send healing. At the same time it always brings along certain discomfort. As the days pile up the side effects increase. By now they are not unexpected and therefore also less of a surprise. Still the discomfort is there again and will likely increase for the next two weeks.
The mouth and tongue are super sensitive and the taste buds do not function (normally). Food is eaten for survival but is less enjoyable. My skin is dry and some nausea and reflux is starting to appear again. Although the latter two items are less intrusive as I have been given some medication to alemiorate these symptoms. There is also a marked reduction in energy. The thing to do, I imagine, is to lay low. To understand what is happening and to actually realize that I am ill and need to rest and be patient.
However, it appears that I have gotten used to the idea of healing and feeling well when I am off the pill and even during the early stages of taking the pill. But I must also continue to realize that the Lord is teaching me patience and that His healing does not come without some physical discomfort. I pray for patience.
At the same time Rita and I also express abundant thanksgiving in our prayers. I suppose that is an important point to stress especially because our neighbours in the USA are celebrating Thanksgiving Day today. We have heard that the American Reformed Church in Lynden, Wash. had a worship service this morning. We are glad to understand that they recognize the true focus or thanksgiving.
Although we Canadians have had our Thanksgiving Day more than a month ago we continue to give thanks every day. At our home we particularly give thanks for the healing we have and are receiving. We also give thanks for the many prayers that have gone to throne of God on our behalf. We further give thanks for the many other means of grace God gives us to strengthen our faith and to worship Him with. We give thanks for the tasks our God still lays before us and the strength He gives us to do them.
We are also thankful for what the Lord is doing with so many others who we also know to be suffering with cancer. We pray for healing for them as well and are thankful for the situations where He has sent that. And in the end we always realize that 'Thy will be done" is not only a fall-back position for when things don't go our way, but it should be our true desire, for His will alone is truly good and right.
My present chemo regimen is schedule to complete on Dec. 9 and on Dec. 14th I a CT Scan has been scheduled for my pelvic area to see what has/is happening to the cancer there. At present I am able to do far more with my left hip area than I have been able to for the previous six months. Nothing else has been scheduled before my next visit to the cancer clinic. That is schedule for Dec. 22. I suspect that I will be put on a fourth four-week regimen starting Dec.27. If all of this is true than we look forward to a wonderful end of the calendar year and all the attendant celebrations with good energy and much health.
Rita and I wish all of you a joyous Christmas and a blessed year of our Lord 2011.
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow
Pieter de Boer
Today I am at the mid-point of my third four-week chemo regimen. As you all know, the Lord has been using this regimen to send healing. At the same time it always brings along certain discomfort. As the days pile up the side effects increase. By now they are not unexpected and therefore also less of a surprise. Still the discomfort is there again and will likely increase for the next two weeks.
The mouth and tongue are super sensitive and the taste buds do not function (normally). Food is eaten for survival but is less enjoyable. My skin is dry and some nausea and reflux is starting to appear again. Although the latter two items are less intrusive as I have been given some medication to alemiorate these symptoms. There is also a marked reduction in energy. The thing to do, I imagine, is to lay low. To understand what is happening and to actually realize that I am ill and need to rest and be patient.
However, it appears that I have gotten used to the idea of healing and feeling well when I am off the pill and even during the early stages of taking the pill. But I must also continue to realize that the Lord is teaching me patience and that His healing does not come without some physical discomfort. I pray for patience.
At the same time Rita and I also express abundant thanksgiving in our prayers. I suppose that is an important point to stress especially because our neighbours in the USA are celebrating Thanksgiving Day today. We have heard that the American Reformed Church in Lynden, Wash. had a worship service this morning. We are glad to understand that they recognize the true focus or thanksgiving.
Although we Canadians have had our Thanksgiving Day more than a month ago we continue to give thanks every day. At our home we particularly give thanks for the healing we have and are receiving. We also give thanks for the many prayers that have gone to throne of God on our behalf. We further give thanks for the many other means of grace God gives us to strengthen our faith and to worship Him with. We give thanks for the tasks our God still lays before us and the strength He gives us to do them.
We are also thankful for what the Lord is doing with so many others who we also know to be suffering with cancer. We pray for healing for them as well and are thankful for the situations where He has sent that. And in the end we always realize that 'Thy will be done" is not only a fall-back position for when things don't go our way, but it should be our true desire, for His will alone is truly good and right.
My present chemo regimen is schedule to complete on Dec. 9 and on Dec. 14th I a CT Scan has been scheduled for my pelvic area to see what has/is happening to the cancer there. At present I am able to do far more with my left hip area than I have been able to for the previous six months. Nothing else has been scheduled before my next visit to the cancer clinic. That is schedule for Dec. 22. I suspect that I will be put on a fourth four-week regimen starting Dec.27. If all of this is true than we look forward to a wonderful end of the calendar year and all the attendant celebrations with good energy and much health.
Rita and I wish all of you a joyous Christmas and a blessed year of our Lord 2011.
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow
Pieter de Boer
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
November 10, 2010
Greetings to all:
Yesterday was Rita's birthday. In the morning her mother, and her five siblings with spouses all came by to celebrate. In the evening her local in-laws and spouses minus one, all her children minus one with spouses minus two, came over to continue the celebration. The Lord was good to her and to me to allow this celebration with so much family. There was much joy in our gatherings. We could rejoice about the goodness of God to Rita in that she has received many good years in which rich blessings could be showered upon her. Of course, when reflecting, she and we can also remember unhappy times, sadness and sorrow. But the Lord has kept her through them and given a day of celebration. We are happy we could enjoy this day together and with so much family. We praise(d) Him for it.
Today we received more reason for praise and thanksgiving. Although we had to bring our youngest son to the airport after a wonderful week of visiting, we received exciting news from the cancer clinic doctor this afternoon. Whereas he told us six weeks ago that the cancer in the chest and lungs had reduced, this time he informed us that he could not find any cancer on the x-rays at all.
He cautioned us that there might still be smidgeons left that he did not see, but he could not see any cancer on the x-ray. He also tested the leg which has been affected by cancer in the left pelvic bone and confirmed that there is better movement and less pain than there has been since April of this year. We are moved to tears of joy at the great blessings the Lord has granted in response to the many prayers brought before his throne.
The doctor advised experimentation with reduction in pain pills and increased excersize of the left leg. When we cautiously asked if it was permitted to speak of progress he concurred that we have definitely seen positive progress as the result of the chemo therapy. We rejoice greatly at the gift of healing the Lord has given.
We are going to start the third four-week chemo pill regimen this Friday, after which a CT scan has been scheduled for mid-December. We pray the Lord for continued healing by His great physician's hand.
We thank all of you who have included us in your prayers and who have visited us in person, by phone or by mail. Your Christian fellowship has been blessed and has comforted us greatly.
Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow.
Pieter and Rita de Boer
Yesterday was Rita's birthday. In the morning her mother, and her five siblings with spouses all came by to celebrate. In the evening her local in-laws and spouses minus one, all her children minus one with spouses minus two, came over to continue the celebration. The Lord was good to her and to me to allow this celebration with so much family. There was much joy in our gatherings. We could rejoice about the goodness of God to Rita in that she has received many good years in which rich blessings could be showered upon her. Of course, when reflecting, she and we can also remember unhappy times, sadness and sorrow. But the Lord has kept her through them and given a day of celebration. We are happy we could enjoy this day together and with so much family. We praise(d) Him for it.
Today we received more reason for praise and thanksgiving. Although we had to bring our youngest son to the airport after a wonderful week of visiting, we received exciting news from the cancer clinic doctor this afternoon. Whereas he told us six weeks ago that the cancer in the chest and lungs had reduced, this time he informed us that he could not find any cancer on the x-rays at all.
He cautioned us that there might still be smidgeons left that he did not see, but he could not see any cancer on the x-ray. He also tested the leg which has been affected by cancer in the left pelvic bone and confirmed that there is better movement and less pain than there has been since April of this year. We are moved to tears of joy at the great blessings the Lord has granted in response to the many prayers brought before his throne.
The doctor advised experimentation with reduction in pain pills and increased excersize of the left leg. When we cautiously asked if it was permitted to speak of progress he concurred that we have definitely seen positive progress as the result of the chemo therapy. We rejoice greatly at the gift of healing the Lord has given.
We are going to start the third four-week chemo pill regimen this Friday, after which a CT scan has been scheduled for mid-December. We pray the Lord for continued healing by His great physician's hand.
We thank all of you who have included us in your prayers and who have visited us in person, by phone or by mail. Your Christian fellowship has been blessed and has comforted us greatly.
Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow.
Pieter and Rita de Boer
Thursday, November 4, 2010
November 4, 2010
Greetings
Almost three weeks have gone by since my last blog. I have been blessed in the past weeks with good experiences. The past three weeks have included the last two weeks of my second four week chemo pill regimen and four days of the two week rest from the pill. This second four week regimen has gone better than the first go around. Of course, the first time I did not know what to expect. This time around I could base my expectations on what I experienced the first time, and by way of comparison I can say that the second time around was easier. I also had the benefit of some medication to deal with the nausea and reflux. Both of these side effects did occur but to a lesser degree. Also a decrease in energy was noticed in the last week. The side effects most notably present in the fourth week also held over into the first number of days of the rest week. However, today I am feeling an increase in energy and less stomach and reflux problems.
Although the side effects are unpleasant they have served to remind me of the serious illness that I have. During the first rest weeks and first few weeks of the second chemo regimen I had good energy and little or no side effects leading at times to a positive outlook that may have been unrealistic about the seriousness of my illness. We hope and pray that the good feelings and stronger energy level may be indicative of the chemo doing its job. Next week Wednesday we have appointments for blood work, x-ray and to see the cancer clinic doctor. We hope for good reports.
We remain convinced however, that our situation, yes, our life itself is in the hands of our heavenly Father. He has given us much reason for joy and we know that in the end we depend on Him, and Him alone. Doctors, medication, prayers and communion of saints are all means that He has chosen to use to achieve His ends. We thank our gracious God for all these means. We are convinced that the prayers of saints are of much value to us. (James 5) We are also very grateful for the communion of saints we are allowed to experience so much of. We value the Biblical love so many have shown to us by visits, cards, words of encouragement as we meet in the course of the days, and the prayers that are sent to the throne of God for us.
Numbers of people have spoken of literal prayer lists that they have at their homes. This reminds us of so many others who are also suffering; some with a variety of cancers, others with different illnesses, still others with none physical difficulties. This leads us to the command to bring the difficulties of our brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ before the throne of our Father. He is indeed our Chief Physician. We are still living in a world affected by sin, sin that makes us all guilty before God's throne of perfect justice. But there is a solution to our guilt. Our Saviour Jesus Christ has taken on human flesh and blood in order that He could suffer and die as we were destined to do as the result of sin. Through faith in Jesus Christ this payment for sin has been accepted by God as payment for our sin and guilt. We praise and thank God always for such a greeat salvation. Each and every moment of our lives it is our desire to thank God for this marvelous work in our lives.
Adam and Eve were created by God to serve and praise Him forever. They (and in them we too) failed because of our rebellion in wanting to be like God rather than serving Him. But having been graciously and mercifully forgiven of all our sins we now want and must live an obedient life of thankfulness in all we do each and every day. With the help of the Holy Spirit we are able to make an imperfect beginning in this calling. However, soon we will be delivered from this imperfect life which is nothing more than a constant death, and will appear without spot before the righteous judgement seat of God and will reign with Him over all things.
While we await our departure we pray for strength and energy to continue to do His will in all things for as long as He will allow.
With joy and thankfulness in God through Jesus Christ,
Pieter de Boer
Almost three weeks have gone by since my last blog. I have been blessed in the past weeks with good experiences. The past three weeks have included the last two weeks of my second four week chemo pill regimen and four days of the two week rest from the pill. This second four week regimen has gone better than the first go around. Of course, the first time I did not know what to expect. This time around I could base my expectations on what I experienced the first time, and by way of comparison I can say that the second time around was easier. I also had the benefit of some medication to deal with the nausea and reflux. Both of these side effects did occur but to a lesser degree. Also a decrease in energy was noticed in the last week. The side effects most notably present in the fourth week also held over into the first number of days of the rest week. However, today I am feeling an increase in energy and less stomach and reflux problems.
Although the side effects are unpleasant they have served to remind me of the serious illness that I have. During the first rest weeks and first few weeks of the second chemo regimen I had good energy and little or no side effects leading at times to a positive outlook that may have been unrealistic about the seriousness of my illness. We hope and pray that the good feelings and stronger energy level may be indicative of the chemo doing its job. Next week Wednesday we have appointments for blood work, x-ray and to see the cancer clinic doctor. We hope for good reports.
We remain convinced however, that our situation, yes, our life itself is in the hands of our heavenly Father. He has given us much reason for joy and we know that in the end we depend on Him, and Him alone. Doctors, medication, prayers and communion of saints are all means that He has chosen to use to achieve His ends. We thank our gracious God for all these means. We are convinced that the prayers of saints are of much value to us. (James 5) We are also very grateful for the communion of saints we are allowed to experience so much of. We value the Biblical love so many have shown to us by visits, cards, words of encouragement as we meet in the course of the days, and the prayers that are sent to the throne of God for us.
Numbers of people have spoken of literal prayer lists that they have at their homes. This reminds us of so many others who are also suffering; some with a variety of cancers, others with different illnesses, still others with none physical difficulties. This leads us to the command to bring the difficulties of our brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ before the throne of our Father. He is indeed our Chief Physician. We are still living in a world affected by sin, sin that makes us all guilty before God's throne of perfect justice. But there is a solution to our guilt. Our Saviour Jesus Christ has taken on human flesh and blood in order that He could suffer and die as we were destined to do as the result of sin. Through faith in Jesus Christ this payment for sin has been accepted by God as payment for our sin and guilt. We praise and thank God always for such a greeat salvation. Each and every moment of our lives it is our desire to thank God for this marvelous work in our lives.
Adam and Eve were created by God to serve and praise Him forever. They (and in them we too) failed because of our rebellion in wanting to be like God rather than serving Him. But having been graciously and mercifully forgiven of all our sins we now want and must live an obedient life of thankfulness in all we do each and every day. With the help of the Holy Spirit we are able to make an imperfect beginning in this calling. However, soon we will be delivered from this imperfect life which is nothing more than a constant death, and will appear without spot before the righteous judgement seat of God and will reign with Him over all things.
While we await our departure we pray for strength and energy to continue to do His will in all things for as long as He will allow.
With joy and thankfulness in God through Jesus Christ,
Pieter de Boer
Friday, October 15, 2010
October 15, 2010
Greetings:
It has been almost two weeks since my last post. In actual fact not many things have changed from then. Yet, there are things to report and to be thankful for.
I am now almost two weeks into my second four-week session with the chemo pill. I can not exactly remember the timing of the side effects from the first round, but I seem to be feeling better this round than the first time. I have received some medication for nausea and reflux. These appear to be working well. Also my energy level continues to remain higher than it was before I learned of the cancer. Folks who visit or who see me when I get out frequently remark that I am looking better than previously. All these things are encouraging and in themselves may be serving to improve my frame of mind and perhaps even physical condition.
Although the above is part experience and part speculation, one thing is sure. I am overwhelmed by my own joy. I am thankful beyond words for the grace of God Who answers prayers and provides me with everything I need, even in abundance. It is truly so that I can at times not find appropriate words to express my the joy I feel about my energy level and lack of side effects or pain.
I have been able to continue to do my work as an elder in the congregation by visiting and phoning the members placed in my care. Together with Rita (my wife) I have been able to get out and visit and do other necessary and pleasant things.
We were saddened to hear of my sister's brother-in-law's sudden passing away, also from cancer, in Ontario. She and her husband have flown to Ontario to be with family and to attend the funeral. We pray for God's comfort and strength for the de Gelder family. We also remember others who suffer with cancer. There a number of Christian sisters who suffer in this way. One sister, in particular has expected to pass on for some time already, but the Lord continues to prolong her earthly life. Her faith remains strong and she enjoys the worship of our God whenever she is able to attend church but looks forward to worshipping Him in perfection without pain and suffering. But she remains patient in waiting for the Lord's hand to take her home at His time. Her example has been and is a blessing for me and many others, I am sure.
There is another sister who has had breast cancer and is receiving chemo treatments because her cancer was genetic, and even though she is presently cancer free, preventative measures need to be taken to try to prevent a re-occurance. The chemo treatment she receives brings considerable suffering so we remember her and her family in prayer.
There is a third sister who also had breast cancer and became cancer free, however at present she suffers from lung cancer and has also contracted pneumonia. She suffers greatly from difficulty in breathing and has to stay in hospital. Her joy at being cancer free was all to short and now she suffers again. We pray for her and her family that the Lord will have compassion on her and provide healing and easing of the suffering she is enduring.
Finally, we have heard from a minister of one of the Canadian Reforemd Churches nearby that the doctors have good hope that they can cure him from the colon cancer they discovered and removed. They plan to treat him with chemo therapy once his body has recovered from the surgery. We pray that the Lord will bless the treatments and that he will spare our brother from much suffering during the treatments.
We note how the Lord is busy with all His children. His hand is at work in all our lives. It is not only in sicknesses that we should Him at work but also when we are healthy we need to remember that we are His and He will guide our lives even though it is our responsibility to live obediently for Him.
Let us remember to pray for one another in sickness and in health. Our Father will hear our prayers and He will answer them. Of that we can be sure.
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.
It has been almost two weeks since my last post. In actual fact not many things have changed from then. Yet, there are things to report and to be thankful for.
I am now almost two weeks into my second four-week session with the chemo pill. I can not exactly remember the timing of the side effects from the first round, but I seem to be feeling better this round than the first time. I have received some medication for nausea and reflux. These appear to be working well. Also my energy level continues to remain higher than it was before I learned of the cancer. Folks who visit or who see me when I get out frequently remark that I am looking better than previously. All these things are encouraging and in themselves may be serving to improve my frame of mind and perhaps even physical condition.
Although the above is part experience and part speculation, one thing is sure. I am overwhelmed by my own joy. I am thankful beyond words for the grace of God Who answers prayers and provides me with everything I need, even in abundance. It is truly so that I can at times not find appropriate words to express my the joy I feel about my energy level and lack of side effects or pain.
I have been able to continue to do my work as an elder in the congregation by visiting and phoning the members placed in my care. Together with Rita (my wife) I have been able to get out and visit and do other necessary and pleasant things.
We were saddened to hear of my sister's brother-in-law's sudden passing away, also from cancer, in Ontario. She and her husband have flown to Ontario to be with family and to attend the funeral. We pray for God's comfort and strength for the de Gelder family. We also remember others who suffer with cancer. There a number of Christian sisters who suffer in this way. One sister, in particular has expected to pass on for some time already, but the Lord continues to prolong her earthly life. Her faith remains strong and she enjoys the worship of our God whenever she is able to attend church but looks forward to worshipping Him in perfection without pain and suffering. But she remains patient in waiting for the Lord's hand to take her home at His time. Her example has been and is a blessing for me and many others, I am sure.
There is another sister who has had breast cancer and is receiving chemo treatments because her cancer was genetic, and even though she is presently cancer free, preventative measures need to be taken to try to prevent a re-occurance. The chemo treatment she receives brings considerable suffering so we remember her and her family in prayer.
There is a third sister who also had breast cancer and became cancer free, however at present she suffers from lung cancer and has also contracted pneumonia. She suffers greatly from difficulty in breathing and has to stay in hospital. Her joy at being cancer free was all to short and now she suffers again. We pray for her and her family that the Lord will have compassion on her and provide healing and easing of the suffering she is enduring.
Finally, we have heard from a minister of one of the Canadian Reforemd Churches nearby that the doctors have good hope that they can cure him from the colon cancer they discovered and removed. They plan to treat him with chemo therapy once his body has recovered from the surgery. We pray that the Lord will bless the treatments and that he will spare our brother from much suffering during the treatments.
We note how the Lord is busy with all His children. His hand is at work in all our lives. It is not only in sicknesses that we should Him at work but also when we are healthy we need to remember that we are His and He will guide our lives even though it is our responsibility to live obediently for Him.
Let us remember to pray for one another in sickness and in health. Our Father will hear our prayers and He will answer them. Of that we can be sure.
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.
Monday, October 4, 2010
October 4, 2010
Greetings to all who read this:
Since the last time I posted an update things have been well. Not taking the chemo pill has restored my energy and eliminated the side effects. I might even be able to say that I have felt better than before starting the chemo pill about six weeks ago now.
I have been off of the pill for two weeks and have started a new four week regemine this morning. But I am pleased to do so as last Thursday the doctor at the cancer clinic showed us that two cancer spots on the chest/lung had reduced in size during the four weeks I was taking the chemo pill. We were very pleased to hear this good news and hope that the same thing was happening to the other cancer spots. The doctor has only checked the chest/lung area this time but we hope that he will check the kidney and pelvic areas after this next four week regemine.
As the result of feeling better these past two weeks we have also been able to do more things. We have been out more and were also able to do some elder work. It is wonderful to feel that the Lord still has work for us to do while we are in this life.
We joyfully live day by day and are happy to do the work He sets before us. We also trust that His plan for our lives is good and we hope that we may perform the tasks He assigns to us to glory of His name and edification of His people. Surely when we can do that our own faith will be strengthened as well.
We continue to enjoy the many visitors that look us up and the many cards we receive. Our family also continues to encourage us to stay in tune with what is happening in our lives. We thank them very much.
The de Boer brothers and sisters have started a habit of coming together for an evening every four weeks to chat and catch up, but also expressly to sing Psalms and Hymns together. This has become a highlight for us and a wonderfully edifying experience.
We also continue to remember others who are also dealing with illnesses similar to ours. We remember them regularly in our prayers. In particular we commend Rev. R. Schouten, Sr. J. Wubs, Sr. N. Krabbendam and Sr. H. Aikema to our heavenly Father and His care as they are also dealing with cancer in their lives.
May our loving and gracious God also be with all who read these words and give them His Holy Spirit to direct you all to Him in faith for salvation, eternal life and above all to the glory of His name.
Since the last time I posted an update things have been well. Not taking the chemo pill has restored my energy and eliminated the side effects. I might even be able to say that I have felt better than before starting the chemo pill about six weeks ago now.
I have been off of the pill for two weeks and have started a new four week regemine this morning. But I am pleased to do so as last Thursday the doctor at the cancer clinic showed us that two cancer spots on the chest/lung had reduced in size during the four weeks I was taking the chemo pill. We were very pleased to hear this good news and hope that the same thing was happening to the other cancer spots. The doctor has only checked the chest/lung area this time but we hope that he will check the kidney and pelvic areas after this next four week regemine.
As the result of feeling better these past two weeks we have also been able to do more things. We have been out more and were also able to do some elder work. It is wonderful to feel that the Lord still has work for us to do while we are in this life.
We joyfully live day by day and are happy to do the work He sets before us. We also trust that His plan for our lives is good and we hope that we may perform the tasks He assigns to us to glory of His name and edification of His people. Surely when we can do that our own faith will be strengthened as well.
We continue to enjoy the many visitors that look us up and the many cards we receive. Our family also continues to encourage us to stay in tune with what is happening in our lives. We thank them very much.
The de Boer brothers and sisters have started a habit of coming together for an evening every four weeks to chat and catch up, but also expressly to sing Psalms and Hymns together. This has become a highlight for us and a wonderfully edifying experience.
We also continue to remember others who are also dealing with illnesses similar to ours. We remember them regularly in our prayers. In particular we commend Rev. R. Schouten, Sr. J. Wubs, Sr. N. Krabbendam and Sr. H. Aikema to our heavenly Father and His care as they are also dealing with cancer in their lives.
May our loving and gracious God also be with all who read these words and give them His Holy Spirit to direct you all to Him in faith for salvation, eternal life and above all to the glory of His name.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
September 23, 2010
Greetings to all:
This past Monday was the first day that I did not take the oral chemo pill. I have been taking it for four weeks. This regimine of one pill per day will hopefully reduce the spread of the cancer and perhaps even take some of it away. However, the treatment has side effects. These side effects were provided to us in a list, along with some things we could do to ameliorate them. Early on we did not notice side effects but as time went on we did. It seems that the more pills we took to more the side effects increased. The most difficult to handle was the nausea and acid reflux. Towards the end of the four week period vomitting in the mornings also became part of the routine.
We are happy to be able to take a break from this treatment. The side effects have also lessened. nausea and acid reflux have reduced to almost none by yesterday and again today.
We are thankful for being allowed to feel better this week and hope it continues for the balance of this week and into next week as well. On Thursday of next week I am scheduled to see the doctor at the cancer clinic in Surrey. I imagine he will prescribe another 28 days of the same treatment (pill). I am also curious to discover how they will measure the success of the pill.
I continue to suffer very little pain although I do take a pain pill every five hours or so just to keep the hip pain in check.
The fatique is still present however I do feel more energy this week than in the past number of weeks.
In all these things we see the hand of our heavenly Father. We pray regularly for healing and trust in Him - and He provides. We truly experience the 'amazing grace' of our Father.
Visitors continue to help in dealing with our situation. They show the love of God through the communion of saints. They provide opportunity for us to witness of His nearness.
So many have promised to pray for us and we experience the answer to the many prayers in the experiences noted above. We ask for your continued prayer and thank you for it.
Pete and Rita de Boer
This past Monday was the first day that I did not take the oral chemo pill. I have been taking it for four weeks. This regimine of one pill per day will hopefully reduce the spread of the cancer and perhaps even take some of it away. However, the treatment has side effects. These side effects were provided to us in a list, along with some things we could do to ameliorate them. Early on we did not notice side effects but as time went on we did. It seems that the more pills we took to more the side effects increased. The most difficult to handle was the nausea and acid reflux. Towards the end of the four week period vomitting in the mornings also became part of the routine.
We are happy to be able to take a break from this treatment. The side effects have also lessened. nausea and acid reflux have reduced to almost none by yesterday and again today.
We are thankful for being allowed to feel better this week and hope it continues for the balance of this week and into next week as well. On Thursday of next week I am scheduled to see the doctor at the cancer clinic in Surrey. I imagine he will prescribe another 28 days of the same treatment (pill). I am also curious to discover how they will measure the success of the pill.
I continue to suffer very little pain although I do take a pain pill every five hours or so just to keep the hip pain in check.
The fatique is still present however I do feel more energy this week than in the past number of weeks.
In all these things we see the hand of our heavenly Father. We pray regularly for healing and trust in Him - and He provides. We truly experience the 'amazing grace' of our Father.
Visitors continue to help in dealing with our situation. They show the love of God through the communion of saints. They provide opportunity for us to witness of His nearness.
So many have promised to pray for us and we experience the answer to the many prayers in the experiences noted above. We ask for your continued prayer and thank you for it.
Pete and Rita de Boer
Friday, September 10, 2010
September 10, 2010
Hello to all
The past days have been mainly good. We thank God every day for the gift of a new day and pray that we may serve Him well in it.
Tuesday of this week I experienced nausea and acid reflux for most of the day. These were among the side effects of the oral chemo therapy that I have been advised to follow. There are a few less difficult effects as well, but these two were very debilatating.
On Wednesday my GP (family doctor) called to see how I was doing. She confirmed that the blood tests I had done about 10 days prior looked good and hence I did not get a follow up call from her then. I discussed the side effects of the chemo and she suggested I call the cancer clinic to confirm some suggestions she had to help. I did as she suggested and we were able to pick up some Gravol and Zantec at the drug store and those side effects have not bothered me in the last three days, We are thankful.
We continue to enjoy visits from our relatives and friends. The blessing of the communion of saints is ever present. We also appreciate the many cards and phone calls we have received. And we are thankful that so many promise to remember us in their prayers for healing, and above all comfort and contentment in the ways of the Lord,
We are thankful to God for the comfort of His Word and the many blessings He has given to us in these daysn as well as in all of our life. His nearness and blessings of the past also convince us His promise to stay with us in all circumstances of life.
We pray that He will continue to watch over us from day to day, strengthening us for each day a new, until we shall finally live with Him in eternal bliss.
Pete de Boer
The past days have been mainly good. We thank God every day for the gift of a new day and pray that we may serve Him well in it.
Tuesday of this week I experienced nausea and acid reflux for most of the day. These were among the side effects of the oral chemo therapy that I have been advised to follow. There are a few less difficult effects as well, but these two were very debilatating.
On Wednesday my GP (family doctor) called to see how I was doing. She confirmed that the blood tests I had done about 10 days prior looked good and hence I did not get a follow up call from her then. I discussed the side effects of the chemo and she suggested I call the cancer clinic to confirm some suggestions she had to help. I did as she suggested and we were able to pick up some Gravol and Zantec at the drug store and those side effects have not bothered me in the last three days, We are thankful.
We continue to enjoy visits from our relatives and friends. The blessing of the communion of saints is ever present. We also appreciate the many cards and phone calls we have received. And we are thankful that so many promise to remember us in their prayers for healing, and above all comfort and contentment in the ways of the Lord,
We are thankful to God for the comfort of His Word and the many blessings He has given to us in these daysn as well as in all of our life. His nearness and blessings of the past also convince us His promise to stay with us in all circumstances of life.
We pray that He will continue to watch over us from day to day, strengthening us for each day a new, until we shall finally live with Him in eternal bliss.
Pete de Boer
Saturday, September 4, 2010
September 4, 2010
Greetings to all:
Finally, another update.
One of the reasons it has been too long since the last update is that we have been blessed by many visits. This is only by way of explanation and certainly not meant as a complaint. The communion of saints and the love of the brotherhood surely shines in our lives. We are also very grateful to our family members who remember us regularly by dropping in for a coffee and a chat to see how we are doing.
Another reason will be the tiredness that continues to come and go. Usually after a visit it is good to take some time to rest and that can quickly lead to a nap.
This past week has gone by without a doctor visit; while it did start with a scheduled blood test at the lab. However, it appears that the blood readings were in the acceptable category as no doctor called to follow up. We are grateful that there was no need to see a doctor as it also has given us an opportunity to catch up on the status of things and to become used to our situation.
The Lord continues to bless us with faith in Him. He uses His Word as well as His people to comfort and strengthen us.
For the past two weeks I have taken medication in pill form. It is hoped that this pill regimen will slow the spread of the cancer and perhaps even kill some of it. It has also had other positive effects on others who have also had the type of cancer I have. The instructions with the pill indicate that some side effects may occur. We are experiencing some of them. Tiredness and nausea are the two that seem to affect me the most. We have been able to deal with things quite well, so far.
We pray that the Lord will use the medication to His glory. We will likely not hear much in the way of effect of the medication until about two or three weeks from now.
I suspect the doctor will call us for an appointment after four weeks of use of the pill. At that time we must stop using it for two weeks.
Rita has called me for supper, so I have better go.
May our heavenly Father be with us all and may we worship Him in uprightness and truth tomorrow.
Pete de Boer
Finally, another update.
One of the reasons it has been too long since the last update is that we have been blessed by many visits. This is only by way of explanation and certainly not meant as a complaint. The communion of saints and the love of the brotherhood surely shines in our lives. We are also very grateful to our family members who remember us regularly by dropping in for a coffee and a chat to see how we are doing.
Another reason will be the tiredness that continues to come and go. Usually after a visit it is good to take some time to rest and that can quickly lead to a nap.
This past week has gone by without a doctor visit; while it did start with a scheduled blood test at the lab. However, it appears that the blood readings were in the acceptable category as no doctor called to follow up. We are grateful that there was no need to see a doctor as it also has given us an opportunity to catch up on the status of things and to become used to our situation.
The Lord continues to bless us with faith in Him. He uses His Word as well as His people to comfort and strengthen us.
For the past two weeks I have taken medication in pill form. It is hoped that this pill regimen will slow the spread of the cancer and perhaps even kill some of it. It has also had other positive effects on others who have also had the type of cancer I have. The instructions with the pill indicate that some side effects may occur. We are experiencing some of them. Tiredness and nausea are the two that seem to affect me the most. We have been able to deal with things quite well, so far.
We pray that the Lord will use the medication to His glory. We will likely not hear much in the way of effect of the medication until about two or three weeks from now.
I suspect the doctor will call us for an appointment after four weeks of use of the pill. At that time we must stop using it for two weeks.
Rita has called me for supper, so I have better go.
May our heavenly Father be with us all and may we worship Him in uprightness and truth tomorrow.
Pete de Boer
Monday, August 16, 2010
August 16, 2010
Time has marched on. The weekend has past and a new work week has begun. However at the de Boer households many are on vacation. The P. de Boer clan, in particular is away from work. As you probably all know the venue of our holiday has changed. For me a week was spent in hospital and our sons and daughters have spent hours there too, However, this past week end was hospital free and church focussed.
At Willoughby Heights we celebrated the Holy Supper of the Lord. The three out of town de Boers (with attestations ) joined Mom and Dad.
The wonderful news of salvation through the grace of Jesus Christ alone was heard, seen and experienced.
The word proclaimed and applied by Rev. Souman was comforting for both the ill and those who love them.
It was good for me to meet Jackie Wubs, a member in my district who has been challenged with cancer for some years now. Her steadfastness, patience, as well as readiness to die has been a constant comfort to me before and after I was diagnosed with a different form of cancer.
On both Saturday and Sunday evenings we (the P de Boer clan) were invited to Kent and Belinda's home (Belinda being our only daughter) for dinner. The togetherness, 'gezeligness', communion of saints, fellowship and family unity in faith was wonderful to experience and to witness.
No new medical news was received and so our worship of God went on uninterrupted. The time for congregational worship as well as family and individual woship were taken advantage of. Each one had opportunity for edification and to thank the Lord for His near-ness. God has been good, is good and will be good. We trust him in all things.
Pieter de Boer
At Willoughby Heights we celebrated the Holy Supper of the Lord. The three out of town de Boers (with attestations ) joined Mom and Dad.
The wonderful news of salvation through the grace of Jesus Christ alone was heard, seen and experienced.
The word proclaimed and applied by Rev. Souman was comforting for both the ill and those who love them.
It was good for me to meet Jackie Wubs, a member in my district who has been challenged with cancer for some years now. Her steadfastness, patience, as well as readiness to die has been a constant comfort to me before and after I was diagnosed with a different form of cancer.
On both Saturday and Sunday evenings we (the P de Boer clan) were invited to Kent and Belinda's home (Belinda being our only daughter) for dinner. The togetherness, 'gezeligness', communion of saints, fellowship and family unity in faith was wonderful to experience and to witness.
No new medical news was received and so our worship of God went on uninterrupted. The time for congregational worship as well as family and individual woship were taken advantage of. Each one had opportunity for edification and to thank the Lord for His near-ness. God has been good, is good and will be good. We trust him in all things.
Pieter de Boer
Friday, August 13, 2010
August 13, 2010
A calendar check shows that today is indeed, August 13, a Friday. For a person being in unfamiliar territories and moving from place to place without previous plans to do so an excuse can be made for not exactly knowing what day it is. Still we are sure it is a day of the Lord; and that gives us great comfort.
The past ten or so days have been a whirlwind of unusual activity. Doctor visits, one CT Scan after an other, xrays, and intoduction after introduction to one specialist after an other. At the same time family was arriving from out of province; visits were a pleanty when we were at home and just right when we overnighted in hospital.
As most of you have heard, I have an agressive cancer. The news of illness and cancer, and then one that has spread, all came in a very short time. The news was difficult to absorb. It was difficult for me, my wife, our children as well as many other family and friends. Yet, the Lord has not forsaken us but has been with us everystep of the way. He has been there with His Word, He has been there with His Spirit, He has shown us the strong and loving communioin of saints, He has clarified His free grace, His salvation, based only on the suffering and death of His only Son, our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
The prognosis by the doctors is calculated in months, but all of our times are in the hand of the Lord.
In all the recent developments, we have increasingly seen the hand and plan of the Lord - He is Majestic!
For the present we will be monitored by blood tests at the local bio-chemical labs and my local GP. If and when other blood transfusions might be necessary they will be done on an out-patient basis.
There is also a palliative care group in Langley, headed by a Dr. Maureen Adamson. I have not met this specialist yet, but she will be calling me soon. I have met Dr. Lo, her compatriot in White Rock while in Peace Arch hospital. He is a very wonderful and sympathetic man. He has told me it is his hope to guide me with respect to pain, on the contiuum from this lfe into the next. We all, family, friends and brothers and sisters in the Lord, pray that our God - Father, Son and Holy Spirit - will lead us through the contiuum from mortal life to eternal life.
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.
Pieter de Boer
The past ten or so days have been a whirlwind of unusual activity. Doctor visits, one CT Scan after an other, xrays, and intoduction after introduction to one specialist after an other. At the same time family was arriving from out of province; visits were a pleanty when we were at home and just right when we overnighted in hospital.
As most of you have heard, I have an agressive cancer. The news of illness and cancer, and then one that has spread, all came in a very short time. The news was difficult to absorb. It was difficult for me, my wife, our children as well as many other family and friends. Yet, the Lord has not forsaken us but has been with us everystep of the way. He has been there with His Word, He has been there with His Spirit, He has shown us the strong and loving communioin of saints, He has clarified His free grace, His salvation, based only on the suffering and death of His only Son, our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
The prognosis by the doctors is calculated in months, but all of our times are in the hand of the Lord.
In all the recent developments, we have increasingly seen the hand and plan of the Lord - He is Majestic!
For the present we will be monitored by blood tests at the local bio-chemical labs and my local GP. If and when other blood transfusions might be necessary they will be done on an out-patient basis.
There is also a palliative care group in Langley, headed by a Dr. Maureen Adamson. I have not met this specialist yet, but she will be calling me soon. I have met Dr. Lo, her compatriot in White Rock while in Peace Arch hospital. He is a very wonderful and sympathetic man. He has told me it is his hope to guide me with respect to pain, on the contiuum from this lfe into the next. We all, family, friends and brothers and sisters in the Lord, pray that our God - Father, Son and Holy Spirit - will lead us through the contiuum from mortal life to eternal life.
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.
Pieter de Boer
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
August 9-10
What a blessing Sunday was! An opportunity for all of us to worship our heavenly Father and praise His holy Name! As a family, we continue to rejoice in God's steadfast love and faithfulness!
On Monday, August 9th, the children and grandchildren of mom and dad were able to spend some time together at a children's indoor playground. It was nice to be together in this way and to enjoy each other's company. Mom went to visit dad at the hospital and she and dad had an excellent time together. They both really enjoyed this time together.
In the afternoon dad was visited by his five children. This was a hilight for dad and for us his children. It was a relaxing and gezellig time together. After Derrick showed up, Dad sat up and asked who was getting the coffee. There we were, dad and his five children have a coffee together. These are moments that we will continue to cherish in the time that God allows!
On Monday, we were hoping that Dad would be able to come home on Tuesday afternoon. The doctors wanted to test his hemoglobin levels and make sure that they were high enough. Well, after testing the blood on Tuesday, August 10th, Dad was given the option of having more blood and going home on the Wednesday, or going home today and having to go back next week Tuesday for the transfusion. Dad chose to stay in the hospital today and has received the assurance from the doctor that he can go home on Wednesday morning! We look forward to seeing dad sitting in HIS chair tomorrow, D.V.
On Tuesday, dad received a visit from a nephew and neice and their two guests from Brazil. It was a great experience for all the participants of the visit. The Brazilian brothers expressed gratitude to dad for teaching them things about life that can't be learned in a seminary and the one brother also was moved at dad's ability to speak in such a confident and comforting way, a way that brought comfort (and tears) to dad's guests while they intended to encourage dad... which they most certainly did, too!!
In the busyness of all sorts of activities we continue to rely on God's faithfulness every day. Of particular strength today was when dad read Psalm 86 after he had had his dinner. It fit in so nicely with a conversation that was had earlier in the evening. We can be assured that God has saved ME; each of us; all those who fear His Name!
And... while dad was sitting on the edge of his bed, looking out the window he simply said, "Praise God from whom all blessings flow..." Indeed!
On Monday, August 9th, the children and grandchildren of mom and dad were able to spend some time together at a children's indoor playground. It was nice to be together in this way and to enjoy each other's company. Mom went to visit dad at the hospital and she and dad had an excellent time together. They both really enjoyed this time together.
In the afternoon dad was visited by his five children. This was a hilight for dad and for us his children. It was a relaxing and gezellig time together. After Derrick showed up, Dad sat up and asked who was getting the coffee. There we were, dad and his five children have a coffee together. These are moments that we will continue to cherish in the time that God allows!
On Monday, we were hoping that Dad would be able to come home on Tuesday afternoon. The doctors wanted to test his hemoglobin levels and make sure that they were high enough. Well, after testing the blood on Tuesday, August 10th, Dad was given the option of having more blood and going home on the Wednesday, or going home today and having to go back next week Tuesday for the transfusion. Dad chose to stay in the hospital today and has received the assurance from the doctor that he can go home on Wednesday morning! We look forward to seeing dad sitting in HIS chair tomorrow, D.V.
On Tuesday, dad received a visit from a nephew and neice and their two guests from Brazil. It was a great experience for all the participants of the visit. The Brazilian brothers expressed gratitude to dad for teaching them things about life that can't be learned in a seminary and the one brother also was moved at dad's ability to speak in such a confident and comforting way, a way that brought comfort (and tears) to dad's guests while they intended to encourage dad... which they most certainly did, too!!
In the busyness of all sorts of activities we continue to rely on God's faithfulness every day. Of particular strength today was when dad read Psalm 86 after he had had his dinner. It fit in so nicely with a conversation that was had earlier in the evening. We can be assured that God has saved ME; each of us; all those who fear His Name!
And... while dad was sitting on the edge of his bed, looking out the window he simply said, "Praise God from whom all blessings flow..." Indeed!
Sunday, August 8, 2010
August 5-8
The Pieter and Rita deBoer family reunion scheduled for the week of August 8th in Hecla, MB was moved to Langley, BC because of the news that Dad deBoer has cancer on the kidney. With this sudden change in plans, the children from Ontario and Manitoba made quick plans to fly to BC to be with the rest of the family during this challenging time.
On Thursday, August 5th, the children from Ontario (Derrick and Chris' families) arrived in BC and were able to greet mom and dad. On the way to mom and dad's home dad received a phone call telling him that his calcium levels were too high and that he needed to check himself into the hospital after a scan that was scheduled at the hospital. This dampened our mood as we had hoped that we would be spending a lot of time with mom and dad at home. Nevertheless, when we got home, dad and mom called the doctor and were told of the plans that the doctor had for them, namely medication through IV to get the calcium levels down and then get some more scans completed that were scheduled for the following week.
Dad and mom went to the hospital, got the scan completed and then he was admitted to the hospital. Providentially, dad got room 401, the nicest room on the 4th floor and a private room too! The family is able to come and go as we please and we can fit quite a few guests in the room, for which we are grateful.
On Friday, August 6th, Dad got the result of the previous day's scans. His head scan was all clear... nothing to see! A few jokes were made and we were pleased with this result. However, the scan of dad's chest identified a number of nodules on the lungs and we were disappointed with this result. In the meantime, we were also told that while dad's calcium levels were too high, his hemoglobin levels were falling and if they fell too low, dad would need a blood transfusion. Dad also had a bone scan on Friday. The results would be known on Saturday.
Saturday, August 7th, was a tough day. Mom and a few others went to visit dad in the moring. Uncle Harry (Dad's oldest brother, although younger than him) was there already. When the rest arrived we were impressed with how well dad looked and we were hopeful that the calcium levels were dropping and that the hemoglobin levels were stabilizing. After Uncle Harry left, Belinda dropped by quickly to wish Dad a good day and then she had to jet off. In that brief visit the doctor stopped by with an update on dad's condition. He had the results of dad's bone scan. Much to the surprise of the doctor and thus, also us, it appeared that the cancer was spread much further than anticipated. Dad's sore hip, which he has been complaining about for some time and which doctors had suggested had nothing to do with cancer, was apparently full of cancer and was indeed the cause of this discomfort. The doctor expressed concern that dad could quite easily fracture his hip if not careful because of all the damage the cancer had done already. This changed dad's prognosis quite considerably. The term "palliative" care was mentioned in passing but it stung all the same.
When the doctor left we were able to shed tears and express our confidence in God's goodness. Reading Psalm 121 and praying together was a great source of strength and we were able to leave Dad's hospital room with confidence that God would provide all of us with the strength we needed.
On Sunday, August 8th, the doctor and palliative specialist came to visit dad. The doctor and dad discussed further steps first and then the palliative specialist was able to talk to dad about pain management.
At this moment, it looks like dad will be transferred from Peace Arch hospital to Vancouver General Hospital on Sunday evening or some time on Monday. The specialists at that hospital will discuss a plan of action for dad's treatment and will see what treatment plan is best for dad. We expect dad to be in VGH for a day or two and then have him come home. It was also during this discussion that the doctor gave dad a life expectancy of about five months. It was longer then some of us expected and was a sense of relief for dad and the family. It means dad will probably be home and able to take care of some of the things he would like to do before he might be taken home.
There has been a lot of crying, praying, scripture reading, laughing, praying, and more laughing during these days. We never doubt Dad's confidence of his salvation in Christ nor do we ever doubt God's faithfulness. He is so good and the overflowing fountain of all good. He is perfectly wise in all His ways and this is a great source of comfort for dad and the rest of the family and his loved ones.
We also get a great source of strength from the various communion of saints of which we are members. It shows how we are not simply a family with a mother, father, five children, and fifteen grandchildren. No, we are more than that... we are members of a great family with our Father in heaven and many brothers and sisters in Christ who is our King. To our triune God belongs all the honour and glory.
On Thursday, August 5th, the children from Ontario (Derrick and Chris' families) arrived in BC and were able to greet mom and dad. On the way to mom and dad's home dad received a phone call telling him that his calcium levels were too high and that he needed to check himself into the hospital after a scan that was scheduled at the hospital. This dampened our mood as we had hoped that we would be spending a lot of time with mom and dad at home. Nevertheless, when we got home, dad and mom called the doctor and were told of the plans that the doctor had for them, namely medication through IV to get the calcium levels down and then get some more scans completed that were scheduled for the following week.
Dad and mom went to the hospital, got the scan completed and then he was admitted to the hospital. Providentially, dad got room 401, the nicest room on the 4th floor and a private room too! The family is able to come and go as we please and we can fit quite a few guests in the room, for which we are grateful.
On Friday, August 6th, Dad got the result of the previous day's scans. His head scan was all clear... nothing to see! A few jokes were made and we were pleased with this result. However, the scan of dad's chest identified a number of nodules on the lungs and we were disappointed with this result. In the meantime, we were also told that while dad's calcium levels were too high, his hemoglobin levels were falling and if they fell too low, dad would need a blood transfusion. Dad also had a bone scan on Friday. The results would be known on Saturday.
Saturday, August 7th, was a tough day. Mom and a few others went to visit dad in the moring. Uncle Harry (Dad's oldest brother, although younger than him) was there already. When the rest arrived we were impressed with how well dad looked and we were hopeful that the calcium levels were dropping and that the hemoglobin levels were stabilizing. After Uncle Harry left, Belinda dropped by quickly to wish Dad a good day and then she had to jet off. In that brief visit the doctor stopped by with an update on dad's condition. He had the results of dad's bone scan. Much to the surprise of the doctor and thus, also us, it appeared that the cancer was spread much further than anticipated. Dad's sore hip, which he has been complaining about for some time and which doctors had suggested had nothing to do with cancer, was apparently full of cancer and was indeed the cause of this discomfort. The doctor expressed concern that dad could quite easily fracture his hip if not careful because of all the damage the cancer had done already. This changed dad's prognosis quite considerably. The term "palliative" care was mentioned in passing but it stung all the same.
When the doctor left we were able to shed tears and express our confidence in God's goodness. Reading Psalm 121 and praying together was a great source of strength and we were able to leave Dad's hospital room with confidence that God would provide all of us with the strength we needed.
On Sunday, August 8th, the doctor and palliative specialist came to visit dad. The doctor and dad discussed further steps first and then the palliative specialist was able to talk to dad about pain management.
At this moment, it looks like dad will be transferred from Peace Arch hospital to Vancouver General Hospital on Sunday evening or some time on Monday. The specialists at that hospital will discuss a plan of action for dad's treatment and will see what treatment plan is best for dad. We expect dad to be in VGH for a day or two and then have him come home. It was also during this discussion that the doctor gave dad a life expectancy of about five months. It was longer then some of us expected and was a sense of relief for dad and the family. It means dad will probably be home and able to take care of some of the things he would like to do before he might be taken home.
There has been a lot of crying, praying, scripture reading, laughing, praying, and more laughing during these days. We never doubt Dad's confidence of his salvation in Christ nor do we ever doubt God's faithfulness. He is so good and the overflowing fountain of all good. He is perfectly wise in all His ways and this is a great source of comfort for dad and the rest of the family and his loved ones.
We also get a great source of strength from the various communion of saints of which we are members. It shows how we are not simply a family with a mother, father, five children, and fifteen grandchildren. No, we are more than that... we are members of a great family with our Father in heaven and many brothers and sisters in Christ who is our King. To our triune God belongs all the honour and glory.
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