On Wednesday, Dec. 17th, Roger and I met with Dr. Pinover and the radiation team. They "tattooed" Roger with marks on his trunk which will guide them in their precision radiation. On Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday this coming week he will be receiving the radiation and we hope his severe back pain will soon be relieved. They will be targeting the tumor on his lumbar spine as well as several lesions on his sacrum that showed up on that second set of MRIs taken 1 1/2 weeks ago. This treatment is extremely delicate and potentially dangerous to Roger's spine and spinal cord. We continue to ask for your prayers for the Lord's protection against the harmful side effects and that He would enable the radiation to indeed fully zap the tumor and lesions. After Christmas the radiation will continue; we don't know the schedule just yet.
We are in the midst of all of the craziness that this time of year brings, preparing to celebrate Christmas with five of our seven children and their families. Two groups are traveling in from out of state: Andrew and Erin arrived from Chicago yesterday and Katherine and Rusty and their two children will travel from Virginia on Christmas day. Our children have been wonderful encouragers, supporters and prayer partners through the years of Roger's myeloma; it is a precious gift to be able to celebrate another Christmas surrounded by our large family, whether we are physically together or not.
This week we all lost a family member with has been with us for 18 1/2 years: our ancient little cat Shadow (known affectionately as Foop). This has been hardest for Roger, Cara and me, since we are the three who have been closest to her in recent years. Her going reminds us once again of the brevity of life and the ache of losing a loved one (and it's amazing how much you can love one of the furry variety).
It again brings us to remember that this life is but a brief prelude to the next, everlasting one. So thank the Lord for the joy of Christmas--the Hope of redemption from this fallen world through our dear Saviour, Jesus Christ. Roger and I and our family cling more tightly each year to the promise of our eternal home with the God who loves us and will take us to be with Him forever. (And I, along with Roger and C.S. Lewis--good company--are convinced that the Lord will spread His arms to include our animal friends there as well.)
Thank you for your prayers for Roger this coming week.
We pray for you for a Christmas full of joy.
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2 comments:
Dear Roger and Karen,
Please know that Anne and I are praying for you and family.
As you know, Dr. Pinover is my Radiation Oncologist as well. I have great faith in him and staff.
I also have my 3 tattoos in preparation for radiation in 2-3 weeks.
May the very life of Jesus continue to daily SUSTAIN you and COMFORT your heart.
In Jesus' love, Tom for Anne Taylor
Dear Roger and Karen,
I woke up early this morning, still jet-lagged, and got Daisy and Cara's SOS for prayer. I just want you to know that Tim and I are carrying you all in prayer. May Jesus comfort Roger, make His presence known in the hospital room, and keep both of you.
A heart full of love,
Lyn, for all of us
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