PET Scan Results - May 10, 2007

Throughout the day today, God has recalled to my mind, the passage from James that our pastor read when he informed our church about Muggs’ diagnosis:

“Count it all joy my brothers, when you encounter trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing”.

This has been a trial – one we didn’t anticipate, and one we certainly would not have chosen for ourselves. This road has been a difficult one, but in the crucible, we have experienced the goodness, kindness, and faithfulness of God – he has met us here. That is not to say that there have not been times of doubt, fear and pain. These emotions have all been present, even prevalent at times. Still, God has demonstrated his care for us in so many unexpected ways. Consider these words from Isaiah 40:

“…the Sovereign Lord comes with power, and his arm rules for him. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. He tends to his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those who have young.

Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, or with the breadth of his hand marked off the heavens? Who has held the dust of earth in a basket, or weighed the mountains on the scales, and the hills in a balance? Who has understood the mind of the Lord, or instructed him as his counselor? Whom did the Lord consult to enlighten him, and who taught him the right way? Who was it that taught him knowledge, or showed him the path of understanding?

…Do you not know? Have you not heard? Has it not been told to you from the beginning? …He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth, and its peoples are like grasshoppers. He stretches out the heavens like a canopy, and spreads them out like a tent to live in. He brings princes to naught, and rulers of this world to nothing… ‘To whom will you compare me? Or who is my equal?’ says the Holy One. Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all of these? He who brings out the starry host one by one, and calls them each by name. Because of his great power, not one of them is missing.”

Most of us have read these words many times. When things seem to be going pretty well, I think we tend to forget their significance. Yet, God speaks into our lives through suffering. I read these words differently now. Through them, I am aware, not only of his great power, but of his specific care for us.

Muggs’ diagnosis of cancer did not catch God off guard – And though it surprised us, it didn’t surprise him. I am seeking his heart though this time, and though I don’t fully understand, I am endeavoring to trust in his plan for us.

There are a number of things that we have learned during this season. Here are a few of them:

• I have come to realize that our lives are but a teeny “blip” on the timeline of eternity. It challenges me with regard to how I spend my time. I am not nearly intentional enough in a number of important areas

• Through your example, we have learned how to better care for others who are suffering. So many of you have modeled the love and care of Christ before our family during this time of trial. We so much appreciate your care, and I trust that you are aware of our gratefulness, and that you sense the pleasure of God.

• We have become more aware of the suffering of others, and of the fact that suffering is one of the ways that we identify with Christ.

• We have learned that the pain that accompanies times like this, and faith are not mutually exclusive – that sorrow does not indicate the absence of faith. There have been times of deep pain and sorrow – but in our heart, we know that God is working this for our good. We don’t understand it all – but we are endeavoring to trust the heart of God.

Tonight, as I deliberated the choice between updating the blog and procrastinating, I received an anonymous comment here on the blog (I receive them on my Blackberry)… The writer encouraged us by reminding us of their prayers, and the prayers of others. Then closed by saying “Thank you for allowing us to walk with you through this journey". I knew then that procrastination was not an option - you have been so faithful in your care for us, I knew I owed you a timely update.


Mugg’s PET Scan Results

We received the results of the PET Scan today, and they looked good. There was significant improvement in the mass in the upper lobe of her lung, with only slight “uptake” – meaning that there were far fewer living cancer cells present in the primary tumor. Additionally, there was significant improvement in the pleural fluid, and in the lymph nodes in her chest. Also, there were no new lesions noted – meaning that there was not new cancer found. We are so grateful to God for this good report.


Muggs is finished with chemotherapy for now. But the cumulative effect of the chemotherapy has been hard on her, and she has not felt well for a couple of weeks now. Needless to say, she is growing weary of not feeling well. The doctor is recommending that we don’t begin with the Tarceva (maintenance drug) just yet. She wants for Muggs to recover some from the chemo, and doesn’t want to introduce medicine that will cause more side effects. Muggs will continue on the Avastin (not a chemotherapy drug) every three weeks as long as it is working. The doctor said that we would save the Tarceva “until we need it”

We are very pleased with the report, as you can imagine. Unfortunately, some patients get no results from chemotherapy, so we are thankful for the good care we are receiving, and for God intervening to bring healing so far.

In closing, I never want to neglect to thank you for the means of grace you have been to us. So many of you have carried us on your hearts, blessed us with meals, and diligently interceded for us. We have been humbled by your kindness and care for us – and we are so very grateful.

For the family,

Andy