Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Back home!
Got back home on Monday. Now the hard work begins! We continue to covet your prayers and your e-mails, cards and comments have been enouragements beyond description. Actually feeling weaker now than last week in the hospital but that's to be expected according to all of our literature. They want me to steer clear of public places for at least a month until our next meeting with our doctor in Cleveland.
Monday, December 21, 2009
TRANSPLANT DECEMBER 21
Dear Friends, It's day 4 after the transplant infusion. Rob's counts are very low - as expected and in his words it's "kicking his butt". His energy/strength is very low, the chemo is continuing to affect him from one end to the other (sore throat and digestive issues) and he doesn't feel like eating. As I said, all of this is expected but we are obviously hopeful that he will turn the corner soon. And as soon as his blood counts begin to recover (the stem cells take 7-10 days after infusion to mature and to be released into his bloodstream which then improves his counts), the symptoms that I listed above should begin to change for the better. The visits from family and dear friends, the cards, emails and prayer have certainly been an encouragement to us. We realize that all those things are part of what God uses to help us. We also continue to realize that God means every minute of this to be used toward our sanctification. We hope that we will be better servants on the other side of this and that we won't forget the many ways (in areas of trusting Him, being concerned about others and realizing that a relationship with Him is all that matters here on earth) that God is currently dealing with us. We also think that underlying all of this, He has drawn us closer to Him. Not in any mystical, undefinable way but in that He is changing our thoughts to reflect His Word. Please know though that we have our struggles also. We have fears and times of anxiousness. Many times we feel that we are almost out of strength. But we remember that the apostle Paul spoke of having difficult times yet in the end, he did not despair. And that is because he was upheld by God's "gracious, omnipotent" hand. And so the same for Rob and I! God never lies, He always sustains us and never leaves us. His goodness is constant and His power unending. We love you all and are so blessed through all your support and ministry. Merry Christmas! Kim
Friday, December 18, 2009
Transplant - Day 10
The actual reintroduction of my stem cells took place yesterday and was actually kind of anti-climatic. Only took an hour or so and then, poof, I'm finished. Now it's just a matter of recovery. My blood counts will all continue to go down for another week or so they tell me and then begin to gradually increase. I've had a lot less nasuea than I expected so that's been a blessing. Spiritually my biggest stuggles have been with my thoughts. I've got LOTS of time on my hand here and I'm finding it harder to read, concentrate, etc. Sometimes I can't imagine two more weeks of this. I don't think I'd do well in any kind of solitary confinement situation!
We were blessed with a wonderful visit from our dear friends Rick and Kim Snyder the other day who, among many other ways of ministering to us, gave us some great books. Among them is a great book on Puritan writings entitled: "The Valley of the Vision". Following is an entry entitled "The All God" which was particularly challenging and encouraging to me. Kim and I covet your prayers that these pure and godly thoughts may be ours as well:
MY GOD,Thou hast helped me to see,that whatever good be in honour and rejoicing,how good is he who gives them, and can withdraw them;that blessedness does not lie so much in receiving good from and in Thee,But in holding forth Thy glory and virtue:that is an amazing thing to see Deity in a creature,speaking, acting, filling, shining through it;that nothing is good but Thee,that I am near good when I am near Thee,that to be like You is a glorious thing: This is my magnet, my attraction.Thou art all my good in times of peace,my only support in days of trouble,my one sufficiency when life shall end. Help me to see how good Thy will is in all,and even when it crosses mine teach me to be pleased with it. Grant me to feel Thee in fire, and food and every providence,and to see that Thy many gifts and creatures are but Thy hands and fingers taking hold of me.Thou bottomless fountain of all good,I give myself to Thee out of love, for all I have or own is Thine,my goods, family, church, self, to do with as Thou wilt,to honour Thyself by me, and by all mine.If it be consistent with Thy eternal counsels,the purpose of Thy grace, and the great ends of Thy glory,then bestow upon me the blessings of Thy comforts;If not, let me resign myself to Thy wiser determinations.
We were blessed with a wonderful visit from our dear friends Rick and Kim Snyder the other day who, among many other ways of ministering to us, gave us some great books. Among them is a great book on Puritan writings entitled: "The Valley of the Vision". Following is an entry entitled "The All God" which was particularly challenging and encouraging to me. Kim and I covet your prayers that these pure and godly thoughts may be ours as well:
MY GOD,Thou hast helped me to see,that whatever good be in honour and rejoicing,how good is he who gives them, and can withdraw them;that blessedness does not lie so much in receiving good from and in Thee,But in holding forth Thy glory and virtue:that is an amazing thing to see Deity in a creature,speaking, acting, filling, shining through it;that nothing is good but Thee,that I am near good when I am near Thee,that to be like You is a glorious thing: This is my magnet, my attraction.Thou art all my good in times of peace,my only support in days of trouble,my one sufficiency when life shall end. Help me to see how good Thy will is in all,and even when it crosses mine teach me to be pleased with it. Grant me to feel Thee in fire, and food and every providence,and to see that Thy many gifts and creatures are but Thy hands and fingers taking hold of me.Thou bottomless fountain of all good,I give myself to Thee out of love, for all I have or own is Thine,my goods, family, church, self, to do with as Thou wilt,to honour Thyself by me, and by all mine.If it be consistent with Thy eternal counsels,the purpose of Thy grace, and the great ends of Thy glory,then bestow upon me the blessings of Thy comforts;If not, let me resign myself to Thy wiser determinations.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Transplant - Day 8
Rob is experiencing more of the chemo effects today so I (Kim) have been assigned the blog. We are so thankful that Rob has just received the last of his chemo today because although he still has a long way to go it's just very good to have this part of the transplant behind us. As Rob might have mentioned, the first 4 days (starting last Tuesday) were pretty good but then the side effects began in earnest on Saturday. We knew in advance of these side effects but it isn't easy to watch as the drugs do their job. But while that is true, we think that we are truly blessed to be able to have this treatment and a possible cure. I can also honestly write that these times of suffering have helped both of us draw closer to God and see that submission to His great truths (Trust His sovereignty, His commands are not burdensome, His will accomplishes glory for Him and good for us) is not only possible but is God's goal for us. I certainly don't claim to understand how God accomplishes all His purposes through trials but He addresses this subject many times in His Word and Rob and I are grateful that He teaches and comforts us with His words. I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your cards and prayers. The Bible does say that the "effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much," and we believe we are the recipients of God answering those prayers as He strengthens and helps us. And I also want all of you to know that your concern for us has been and continues to be a source of great encouragement to us. Tomorrow we will celebrate our 20th anniversary and although we're in the hospital I think it will be one of our most special anniversaries as we have been challenged to concentrate on what really matters in life. I'll sign off for now wishing you all a Merry Christmas. I'm also including Rob's address as some have asked for it, with much love, Kim.
Rob Ratliff
G110 Bed 5
Cleveland Clinic
9500 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44195
Rob Ratliff
G110 Bed 5
Cleveland Clinic
9500 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44195
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Transplant - Day 2
Arrived in Cleveland yesterday (Tuesday), was admitted and began receiving the first set of chemo last night. The first chemo drug (busulfan) is the mildest one and usually doesn't cause nausea, etc so that's encouraging but the next two are more powerful and more likely to cause side effects.
Reading through the Psalms so you'll probably get a dose of those as I keep you updated during the transplant:
Psalm 13:6 "I will sing to the Lord, Because He has dealt bountifully with me."
This is my prayer today. That I would not only agree with Scripture that God has and continues to deal bountifully with me no matter what my circumstances but that I will praise Him ("sing" to Him) for His past, continuing and future goodness to me. David pens these words not in a relative time of prosperity but in the midst of an incredible trial as related in verses 1 and 2:
"How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me?
How long shall I take counsel in my soul, Having sorrow in my heart daily? How long will my enemy be exalted over me?"
May our testimony in trials be like David's - not only reliance and trust in God but praise for His goodness despite circumstances.
Reading through the Psalms so you'll probably get a dose of those as I keep you updated during the transplant:
Psalm 13:6 "I will sing to the Lord, Because He has dealt bountifully with me."
This is my prayer today. That I would not only agree with Scripture that God has and continues to deal bountifully with me no matter what my circumstances but that I will praise Him ("sing" to Him) for His past, continuing and future goodness to me. David pens these words not in a relative time of prosperity but in the midst of an incredible trial as related in verses 1 and 2:
"How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me?
How long shall I take counsel in my soul, Having sorrow in my heart daily? How long will my enemy be exalted over me?"
May our testimony in trials be like David's - not only reliance and trust in God but praise for His goodness despite circumstances.
Friday, December 4, 2009
New admittance date
We're only moved back a week. I'll be readmitted for the stem cell transplant on Tuesday, December 8. Kim and I are currently enjoying the blessing of a weekend at home and we'll be here until leaving on Tuesday. Here's my new schedule:
I will be admitted on December 8 with chemo beginning then and accelerating on Dec 12. Great care is taken during the chemo part to insure that infection does not complicate things as the chemo will be destroying my natural immunity system making the dangers for infection increase. The return of my harvested stem cells is scheduled for the 17th followed by two weeks of monitoring and testing to assure that no complications are arising. If all goes well, according to the current schedule, I'll be released for home on New Year's Eve, the 31st.
I will be admitted on December 8 with chemo beginning then and accelerating on Dec 12. Great care is taken during the chemo part to insure that infection does not complicate things as the chemo will be destroying my natural immunity system making the dangers for infection increase. The return of my harvested stem cells is scheduled for the 17th followed by two weeks of monitoring and testing to assure that no complications are arising. If all goes well, according to the current schedule, I'll be released for home on New Year's Eve, the 31st.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Two great devotions - Spurgeon and MacArthur
Two awesome devotions today challenging believers with a Godly view of trials. As Kim and I reminded ourselves of today, it is not enough to not despair in trials but we are commanded and equipped to REJOICE in them! Not easy but wow!, what benefits when proper focus and thinking is in place and joy is the result. Here they are. Spurgeon's is first followed by MacArthur's:
“Thou hast made summer and winter.”
— Psalm 74:17
My soul begin this wintry month with thy God. The cold snows and the piercing winds all remind thee that he keeps his covenant with day and night, and tend to assure thee that he will also keep that glorious covenant which he has made with thee in the person of Christ Jesus. He who is true to his Word in the revolutions of the seasons of this poor sin-polluted world, will not prove unfaithful in his dealings with his own well-beloved Son.
Winter in the soul is by no means a comfortable season, and if it be upon thee just now it will be very painful to thee: but there is this comfort, namely, that the Lord makes it. He sends the sharp blasts of adversity to nip the buds of expectation: he scattereth the hoarfrost like ashes over the once verdant meadows of our joy: he casteth forth his ice like morsels freezing the streams of our delight. He does it all, he is the great Winter King, and rules in the realms of frost, and therefore thou canst not murmur. Losses, crosses, heaviness, sickness, poverty, and a thousand other ills, are of the Lord’s sending, and come to us with wise design. Frosts kill noxious insects, and put a bound to raging diseases; they break up the clods, and sweeten the soul. O that such good results would always follow our winters of affliction!
How we prize the fire just now! how pleasant is its cheerful glow! Let us in the same manner prize our Lord, who is the constant source of warmth and comfort in every time of trouble. Let us draw nigh to him, and in him find joy and peace in believing. Let us wrap ourselves in the warm garments of his promises, and go forth to labours which befit the season, for it were ill to be as the sluggard who will not plough by reason of the cold; for he shall beg in summer and have nothing.
Spurgeon, C. H. (1995). Morning and evening : Daily readings (December 1 AM). Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.
The Measure of Spiritual Maturity
In this I rejoice, yes; and will rejoice. Philippians 1:18
A believer’s spiritual maturity can be measured by what it takes to steal his joy. Joy is a fruit of a Spirit–controlled life (Gal. 5:22). We are to rejoice always (Phil. 4:4; 1 Thess. 5:16). In all circumstances the Holy Spirit produces joy, so there ought not to be any time when we are not rejoicing in some way.
Change, confusion, trials, attacks, unmet desires, conflict, and strained relationships can throw us off balance and rob us of our joy if we’re not careful. It’s then we should cry out like the psalmist, “Restore to me the joy of Your salvation” (Ps. 51:12).
Jesus said, “In the world you will have tribulation” (John 16:33), and the apostle James said, “Count it all joy when you fall into various trials” (James 1:2). God has His own profound purpose in our afflictions, but He never takes away our joy. To maintain our joy we must adopt God’s perspective regarding our trials. When we yield to the working of His Spirit in our lives, our difficulties will not overwhelm us.
MacArthur, J. (2001). Truth for today : A daily touch of God's grace (362). Nashville, Tenn.: J. Countryman.
“Thou hast made summer and winter.”
— Psalm 74:17
My soul begin this wintry month with thy God. The cold snows and the piercing winds all remind thee that he keeps his covenant with day and night, and tend to assure thee that he will also keep that glorious covenant which he has made with thee in the person of Christ Jesus. He who is true to his Word in the revolutions of the seasons of this poor sin-polluted world, will not prove unfaithful in his dealings with his own well-beloved Son.
Winter in the soul is by no means a comfortable season, and if it be upon thee just now it will be very painful to thee: but there is this comfort, namely, that the Lord makes it. He sends the sharp blasts of adversity to nip the buds of expectation: he scattereth the hoarfrost like ashes over the once verdant meadows of our joy: he casteth forth his ice like morsels freezing the streams of our delight. He does it all, he is the great Winter King, and rules in the realms of frost, and therefore thou canst not murmur. Losses, crosses, heaviness, sickness, poverty, and a thousand other ills, are of the Lord’s sending, and come to us with wise design. Frosts kill noxious insects, and put a bound to raging diseases; they break up the clods, and sweeten the soul. O that such good results would always follow our winters of affliction!
How we prize the fire just now! how pleasant is its cheerful glow! Let us in the same manner prize our Lord, who is the constant source of warmth and comfort in every time of trouble. Let us draw nigh to him, and in him find joy and peace in believing. Let us wrap ourselves in the warm garments of his promises, and go forth to labours which befit the season, for it were ill to be as the sluggard who will not plough by reason of the cold; for he shall beg in summer and have nothing.
Spurgeon, C. H. (1995). Morning and evening : Daily readings (December 1 AM). Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.
The Measure of Spiritual Maturity
In this I rejoice, yes; and will rejoice. Philippians 1:18
A believer’s spiritual maturity can be measured by what it takes to steal his joy. Joy is a fruit of a Spirit–controlled life (Gal. 5:22). We are to rejoice always (Phil. 4:4; 1 Thess. 5:16). In all circumstances the Holy Spirit produces joy, so there ought not to be any time when we are not rejoicing in some way.
Change, confusion, trials, attacks, unmet desires, conflict, and strained relationships can throw us off balance and rob us of our joy if we’re not careful. It’s then we should cry out like the psalmist, “Restore to me the joy of Your salvation” (Ps. 51:12).
Jesus said, “In the world you will have tribulation” (John 16:33), and the apostle James said, “Count it all joy when you fall into various trials” (James 1:2). God has His own profound purpose in our afflictions, but He never takes away our joy. To maintain our joy we must adopt God’s perspective regarding our trials. When we yield to the working of His Spirit in our lives, our difficulties will not overwhelm us.
MacArthur, J. (2001). Truth for today : A daily touch of God's grace (362). Nashville, Tenn.: J. Countryman.
surgery
They've determined the cause of my fever to be an infection association with my omaya (the stunt type thing that was inserted in my head in August to administer chemotherapy to my spinal fluid) so they're going to remove it. We're waiting for them to come and get me for this procedure as I type. After removal, I'll be put on an antibiotic regimen that will delay my stem cell admittance (it was supposed to be today, December 1) by probably two weeks. I'll keep you posted.
Please continue to pray for Kim and I specifically that we remain focused on God's goodness and His sanctifying purposes through all this in our lives. We were both challenged and encouraged today by both Spurgeon and MacArthur in their daily devotions (see next post) on this subject. The fact that it keeps popping up in our lives is no accident and as I've mentioned before, I covet your prayers for our Spiritual growth MUCH MUCH more than prayers for health and recovery which is only temporary in the scope of eternity.
With love,
Rob
Please continue to pray for Kim and I specifically that we remain focused on God's goodness and His sanctifying purposes through all this in our lives. We were both challenged and encouraged today by both Spurgeon and MacArthur in their daily devotions (see next post) on this subject. The fact that it keeps popping up in our lives is no accident and as I've mentioned before, I covet your prayers for our Spiritual growth MUCH MUCH more than prayers for health and recovery which is only temporary in the scope of eternity.
With love,
Rob
Friday, November 27, 2009
Small disappointment
Had a pretty discouraging disapointment recently. The stem cell collecting went great - I was done in two days - so we left on Wednesday for a long Thanksgiving weekend at home before returning back to be admitted on Tuesday. No sooner than we got home, however, that I started running a fever and we had to head back to the hospital, Lima first and then a midnight transport to Cleveland, where they admitted me early in the morning of Thanksgiving and are currently pumping me with antibiotics and trying to find the source of the fever. The disappointment reminded me again of how easy it is to lose eternal perspective. While I thought a long weekend was of utmost importance, I am reminded again that God's purposes are eternal and that His desire is to conform me into a person who glorifies Him by thinking and acting in the eternal realm instead of the temporal. I'll be the first to admit though, it sure ain't natural or easy.
Hebrews 4:14-16
Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Hebrews 4:14-16
Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Cleveland Culture
Since we've spent so much time in Cleveland, I thought it would be fun to check out the cultural sites of this great city. So where do we head first? Why to the house they used for the filming of "A Christmas Story" of course! When you get to this place, you wonder how in the world they found it or what set this house apart. It's in a typical old city neighborhood with run down houses though there was a wonderful view of a steel mill complex behind the house. There is a tour offered though we didn't take it (not very accessible) but we did go to the gift shop. I tried to talk Kim into the full size lace skirt lamp (one of which has a prominent spot in the front window to the house) but she nixed the idea. Settled for a couple of t-shirts.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Great stuff from Spurgeon
A personal favorite pastor/author of mine. Timeless though over 100 years old. This is from his evening devotion on Nov 11:
"He shall choose our inheritance for us."
— Psalm 47:4
Believer, if your inheritance be a lowly one you should be satisfied with your earthly portion; for you may rest assured that it is the fittest for you. Unerring wisdom ordained your lot, and selected for you the safest and best condition. A ship of large tonnage is to be brought up the river; now, in one part of the stream there is a sandbank; should some one ask, "Why does the captain steer through the deep part of the channel and deviate so much from a straight line?" His answer would be, "Because I should not get my vessel into harbour at all if I did not keep to the deep channel." So, it may be, you would run aground and suffer shipwreck, if your divine Captain did not steer you into the depths of affliction where waves of trouble follow each other in quick succession. Some plants die if they have too much sunshine. It may be that you are planted where you get but little, you are put there by the loving Husbandman, because only in that situation will you bring forth fruit unto perfection. Remember this, had any other condition been better for you than the one in which you are, divine love would have put you there. You are placed by God in the most suitable circumstances, and if you had the choosing of your lot, you would soon cry, "Lord, choose my inheritance for me, for by my self-will I am pierced through with many sorrows." Be content with such things as you have, since the Lord has ordered all things for your good. Take up your own daily cross; it is the burden best suited for your shoulder, and will prove most effective to make you perfect in every good word and work to the glory of God. Down busy self, and proud impatience, it is not for you to choose, but for the Lord of Love!
"Trials must and will befall—
But with humble faith to see
Love inscribed upon them all;
This is happiness to me."
"He shall choose our inheritance for us."
— Psalm 47:4
Believer, if your inheritance be a lowly one you should be satisfied with your earthly portion; for you may rest assured that it is the fittest for you. Unerring wisdom ordained your lot, and selected for you the safest and best condition. A ship of large tonnage is to be brought up the river; now, in one part of the stream there is a sandbank; should some one ask, "Why does the captain steer through the deep part of the channel and deviate so much from a straight line?" His answer would be, "Because I should not get my vessel into harbour at all if I did not keep to the deep channel." So, it may be, you would run aground and suffer shipwreck, if your divine Captain did not steer you into the depths of affliction where waves of trouble follow each other in quick succession. Some plants die if they have too much sunshine. It may be that you are planted where you get but little, you are put there by the loving Husbandman, because only in that situation will you bring forth fruit unto perfection. Remember this, had any other condition been better for you than the one in which you are, divine love would have put you there. You are placed by God in the most suitable circumstances, and if you had the choosing of your lot, you would soon cry, "Lord, choose my inheritance for me, for by my self-will I am pierced through with many sorrows." Be content with such things as you have, since the Lord has ordered all things for your good. Take up your own daily cross; it is the burden best suited for your shoulder, and will prove most effective to make you perfect in every good word and work to the glory of God. Down busy self, and proud impatience, it is not for you to choose, but for the Lord of Love!
"Trials must and will befall—
But with humble faith to see
Love inscribed upon them all;
This is happiness to me."
Monday, November 9, 2009
at the Hope Lodge
We've been blessed again with a place at the Hope Lodge which I mentioned in an earlier blog. Had my Horizon Catheter placed today with no problems. It's a bit uncomfortable right now but is sure going to be worth any discomfort considering that from now on I won't need an IV to give blood samples, stem cells or receive chemo. Kim and I were singing the hymn "How Firm a Foundation" yesterday. The entire hymn is so encouraging with the truths that are presented. For example, verses 2 and 3:
‘Fear not, I am with thee; O be not dismayed,
For I am thy God, and will still give thee aid;
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by My righteous, omnipotent hand.
When thro’ fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,
My grace, all-sufficient, shall be thy supply;
The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design
Thy dross to consume, and thy gold to refine.
I'm finding more and more that I need continual, repetitive reminders of God's wonderful truths or off I go letting my mind wander to worry, fear, etc. Please pray for us, especially during these next 6 weeks or so as my treatments intensify. Pray that Kim and I would be continually reminded of God's goodness, omnipotence and loving work in our lives through this time and that our "dross is consumed" to be replaced by the gold of God's righteousness.
2 Tim 2:19: "Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”
‘Fear not, I am with thee; O be not dismayed,
For I am thy God, and will still give thee aid;
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by My righteous, omnipotent hand.
When thro’ fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,
My grace, all-sufficient, shall be thy supply;
The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design
Thy dross to consume, and thy gold to refine.
I'm finding more and more that I need continual, repetitive reminders of God's wonderful truths or off I go letting my mind wander to worry, fear, etc. Please pray for us, especially during these next 6 weeks or so as my treatments intensify. Pray that Kim and I would be continually reminded of God's goodness, omnipotence and loving work in our lives through this time and that our "dross is consumed" to be replaced by the gold of God's righteousness.
2 Tim 2:19: "Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”
Thursday, October 29, 2009
what lies ahead (medically)
As mentioned, God willing, we are preceding toward a stem cell transplant which medically is the best shot we've got at keeping this thing from coming back. Of course we know that our wonderful Sovereign God has us and specifically my medical condition in His loving and perfect hands so His awesome will be wonderfully executed which, of course, is a great comfort to us as we look ahead to what is, humanly speaking, a rather scary process. First, next week I have a 10th "omaya" procedure scheduled to insert chemo into my spinal fluid on Tuesday the 3rd followed by an ekg, chest x-ray, lab work and a visit with my oncologist Dr. Smith on Thursday the 5th. Dr. Smith will go over all the recent labs with us and hopefully give us the green light to start on the road to the stem cell transplant.
Stem Cell Transplant
The particular type of transplant I am schedule to receive involves harvesting my own clean "baby" stem cells, as they've described by the Clinic staff, having me undergo an intense series of chemo therapy that will basically kill off my existing stem cells and hopefully any cells that will ever turn cancerous, and then re-introduce my own saved stem cells back into my body. The schedule right now looks like this:
Nov 9-27. Preparation for stem cell collection followed by 5 days (23-27) of the collection itself. The preparation will include the insertion of a catheter that will be used for the collection and future chemo as well as two weeks of treatments (16-20th) designed to ready my body for the harvesting which is to begin on the 23rd and last for 5 days. Assuming the harvesting goes as planned ...
Dec 1-24 I will be admitted on December 1 with chemo beginning then and accelerating on Dec 5. Great care is taken during the chemo part to insure that infection does not complicate things as the chemo will be destroying my natural immunity system making the dangers for infection increase. The return of my harvested stem cells is scheduled for the 10th followed by two weeks of monitoring and testing to assure that no complications are arising. If all goes well, according to the current schedule, I'll be released for home on Christmas Eve, the 24th.
Stem Cell Transplant
The particular type of transplant I am schedule to receive involves harvesting my own clean "baby" stem cells, as they've described by the Clinic staff, having me undergo an intense series of chemo therapy that will basically kill off my existing stem cells and hopefully any cells that will ever turn cancerous, and then re-introduce my own saved stem cells back into my body. The schedule right now looks like this:
Nov 9-27. Preparation for stem cell collection followed by 5 days (23-27) of the collection itself. The preparation will include the insertion of a catheter that will be used for the collection and future chemo as well as two weeks of treatments (16-20th) designed to ready my body for the harvesting which is to begin on the 23rd and last for 5 days. Assuming the harvesting goes as planned ...
Dec 1-24 I will be admitted on December 1 with chemo beginning then and accelerating on Dec 5. Great care is taken during the chemo part to insure that infection does not complicate things as the chemo will be destroying my natural immunity system making the dangers for infection increase. The return of my harvested stem cells is scheduled for the 10th followed by two weeks of monitoring and testing to assure that no complications are arising. If all goes well, according to the current schedule, I'll be released for home on Christmas Eve, the 24th.
another overdue update
I'm really not being good and being regular with this, am I! I'll fill you in on what we've been up to the last few weeks:
Oct 5-7: Our last schedule chemo treatment at Cleveland Clinic. Nice to get this part of the process behind us. A little expected nausea for a couple days after returning home but nothing major.
Oct 12-15. We returned to Cleveland for a lot of meetings and tests for the purpose of restaging my cancer and getting us prepared for what all of this has been leading up to: A stem cell transplant. More details on that in the next post. Hopefully the scans, blood work, spinal fluid analysis and bone marrow biopsy will show that the cancer is no longer present and allow us to continue on our transplant path. We enjoyed the benefits of the Hope Lodge for the first time on this trip to Cleveland. Hope Lodge is a facility 5 minutes east of the Clinic near the campus of Case Western that allows cancer patients and their care givers free stay while undergoing outpatient procedures at the Clinic. It's a very nice facility and we enjoyed yet another way God is providing for us in every need with our stay there. We are hoping to stay there again in the near future assuming our schedule goes as planned.
Oct 16-present. We've enjoyed some quite down time since returning from Cleveland on the 15th. Kim has been using the time to catch up on stuff around the house and we've been enjoying the time together re-establishing a consistent devotion time together with the help John McArthur's online resources at www.gty.org Personally my legs and consequently my walking have been getting stronger. I've been wearing braces regularly once again that were created for me a couple of months ago and have been enjoying greater mobility - walking more with the walker instead of staying in the wheel chair. I've been also sneaking out and driving a little more often to Delphos and back mostly. I'm tempted to get that 87 diesel Mercedes out and have some fun but don't think I'd get away with that! Had a wonderful blessing yesterday, Weds the 28th, with visits from 3 wonderful friends. My oldest friend, Dan Gamble, who I've known since 2nd grade found an excuse to get over to this area from his Marysville to spend a few hours with me and then I was surprised and blessed with a visit from Celina friends Ken Lange and Aaron Beougher who were on their way to a girl's volleyball game in Findlay and stopped by. It was a wonderful day! and I enjoyed catching up with 3 great friends.
Oct 5-7: Our last schedule chemo treatment at Cleveland Clinic. Nice to get this part of the process behind us. A little expected nausea for a couple days after returning home but nothing major.
Oct 12-15. We returned to Cleveland for a lot of meetings and tests for the purpose of restaging my cancer and getting us prepared for what all of this has been leading up to: A stem cell transplant. More details on that in the next post. Hopefully the scans, blood work, spinal fluid analysis and bone marrow biopsy will show that the cancer is no longer present and allow us to continue on our transplant path. We enjoyed the benefits of the Hope Lodge for the first time on this trip to Cleveland. Hope Lodge is a facility 5 minutes east of the Clinic near the campus of Case Western that allows cancer patients and their care givers free stay while undergoing outpatient procedures at the Clinic. It's a very nice facility and we enjoyed yet another way God is providing for us in every need with our stay there. We are hoping to stay there again in the near future assuming our schedule goes as planned.
Oct 16-present. We've enjoyed some quite down time since returning from Cleveland on the 15th. Kim has been using the time to catch up on stuff around the house and we've been enjoying the time together re-establishing a consistent devotion time together with the help John McArthur's online resources at www.gty.org Personally my legs and consequently my walking have been getting stronger. I've been wearing braces regularly once again that were created for me a couple of months ago and have been enjoying greater mobility - walking more with the walker instead of staying in the wheel chair. I've been also sneaking out and driving a little more often to Delphos and back mostly. I'm tempted to get that 87 diesel Mercedes out and have some fun but don't think I'd get away with that! Had a wonderful blessing yesterday, Weds the 28th, with visits from 3 wonderful friends. My oldest friend, Dan Gamble, who I've known since 2nd grade found an excuse to get over to this area from his Marysville to spend a few hours with me and then I was surprised and blessed with a visit from Celina friends Ken Lange and Aaron Beougher who were on their way to a girl's volleyball game in Findlay and stopped by. It was a wonderful day! and I enjoyed catching up with 3 great friends.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Macedonian giving
Wow! Sorry it’s been so (too!) long since we’ve updated this page. We’ve been enjoying the relative calm of 2 ½ weeks at home. Kim’s been catching up with household stuff she needs to get done and I’ve been trying to stay healthy and gain strength walking on the walker, etc. Actually trying to gain weight in preparation for more treatments which is something I’ve never had as a goal before. It’s actually kind of nice! It’s nice to have a reason to enjoy a milkshake daily!
We continue to enjoy the many blessings we’re receiving from the many wonderful people God has placed in our lives. The students and staff at Apollo literally overwhelmed us by having a dress down day recently in order to collect money to help us out. Going from my love of the Cincinnati Reds, students and staff paid to dress down in casual red colored clothing. My supervisor, Natalie, brought the outcome to Kim and I along with a picture of the staff dressed in red in my classroom and brought us to tears. What a joy it is to see God working in so many ways! Other blessings of heartfelt entries in cards and letters along with numerous Scripture verses from so many of you have ministered to us in wonderful ways. It reminds me of Paul’s commendation of the Macedonian churches in 2 Cor 8:1-5:
8:1 Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: 2 that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality. 3 For I bear witness that according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing, 4 imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 5 And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God.
Another thing God has worked on to both Kim and I through this trial is being on the receiving end of ministry. Kim and I share the trait of being private kind of people and while, I believe, God doesn’t want us to always be spouting off every little thing going on in our lives to others, we’ve been convicted of the fact that we’ve erred on the other end of the spectrum – being so private as to try to squelch the ministry opportunities God has provided to others in opportunities to minister to us. We’re both working on opening up our lives more and more to others – in fact this blog is an example of that – and welcoming the gifts others have in ministering to us. In the passage from 2 Cor above, I put myself in Paul’s position and think what a wonderful blessing the Macedonia giving was to him! I can’t imagine the encouragement that incredible giving ("beyond their ability" in verse 3) was to Paul and his crew during the trying times they faced in ministry. Kim and I are enjoying that same form of encouragement through the ministry of so many of you to us. You are not only ministering to us, you are teaching us many wonderful godly truths through your actions and we are very appreciative of it.
We head back up to Cleveland for 3 days of treatments this Monday through Wednesday (the 5th through the 7th).
In Christ’s love,
Rob
We continue to enjoy the many blessings we’re receiving from the many wonderful people God has placed in our lives. The students and staff at Apollo literally overwhelmed us by having a dress down day recently in order to collect money to help us out. Going from my love of the Cincinnati Reds, students and staff paid to dress down in casual red colored clothing. My supervisor, Natalie, brought the outcome to Kim and I along with a picture of the staff dressed in red in my classroom and brought us to tears. What a joy it is to see God working in so many ways! Other blessings of heartfelt entries in cards and letters along with numerous Scripture verses from so many of you have ministered to us in wonderful ways. It reminds me of Paul’s commendation of the Macedonian churches in 2 Cor 8:1-5:
8:1 Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: 2 that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality. 3 For I bear witness that according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing, 4 imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 5 And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God.
Another thing God has worked on to both Kim and I through this trial is being on the receiving end of ministry. Kim and I share the trait of being private kind of people and while, I believe, God doesn’t want us to always be spouting off every little thing going on in our lives to others, we’ve been convicted of the fact that we’ve erred on the other end of the spectrum – being so private as to try to squelch the ministry opportunities God has provided to others in opportunities to minister to us. We’re both working on opening up our lives more and more to others – in fact this blog is an example of that – and welcoming the gifts others have in ministering to us. In the passage from 2 Cor above, I put myself in Paul’s position and think what a wonderful blessing the Macedonia giving was to him! I can’t imagine the encouragement that incredible giving ("beyond their ability" in verse 3) was to Paul and his crew during the trying times they faced in ministry. Kim and I are enjoying that same form of encouragement through the ministry of so many of you to us. You are not only ministering to us, you are teaching us many wonderful godly truths through your actions and we are very appreciative of it.
We head back up to Cleveland for 3 days of treatments this Monday through Wednesday (the 5th through the 7th).
In Christ’s love,
Rob
Monday, September 21, 2009
Home again
Got home from Cleveland late last Wednesday the 16th. Physically, I had probably my worst day on Thursday. Nausea from the chemo resulted in not being able to keep anything in my stomach but, Praise God, I was able to keep a little bit of water down and able to keep my pill regiment in my system when I needed to take medication for pain, etc. Praise God as well for the fact that I was able to make my Thursday afternoon appointment at the St. Rita’s ambulatory care to get my important Neulasta (sp?) shot which is designed to increase my white cell production a week or so down the line when it drops due to chemo. Friday wasn’t much better but I was able to get just a little oatmeal and cereal down without throwing up as well as the water which is vital to make sure I don’t get dehydrated. Saturday was better and I stayed up until the 3rd quarter of the University of Cincinnati/Oregon State game (DVR’ing the rest to watch at 4:00 a.m. in the morning). Yesterday, Sunday, was more normal as I got up and around more and enjoyed the Bengal’s win at Lambeau. Today, Monday, I feel great.
I hope you all know how encouraging the cards and letters have been. I also appreciate the prayers and support from my colleagues at Apollo. The physical goal of being home is to get stronger in preparation for the treatments which lie ahead – the next of which is planned for Cleveland again October 5-7. Spiritually, God is awesome and remains so. I’m going through John MacArthur’s series on James and am challenged and encouraged daily. Yesterday in his sermon, MacArthur took us to Jeremiah 48:11
"Moab has been at ease from his youth :He has settled on his dregs, And has not been emptied from vessel to vessel, Nor has he gone into captivity. Therefore his taste remained in him, And his scent has not changed.
The "dregs" mentioned in this verse refer to the sediment left over in the wine making process that settled to the bottom of the wineskins. Obviously good wine does not contain these sediments so the wine making process also included a process by which the wine was continually transferred from one wineskin to another. Each pouring would separate more and more dregs until the final result, after repeated transfers, was wine without the dregs. The Prophet Jeremiah is comparing this process to remove the dregs to the trials God uses in one’s life to remove personal, or in this case, national "dregs". Specifically here, Moab as a nation had not had to endure trials. Their life had been "at ease" for a long time, not having to endure captivity, etc. The result being that the dregs had not been removed and Moab’s "taste" and "scent" had not changed. In other words, sin had not been removed and remained as a negative "taste" and "scent". All of us accumulate "dregs" and frankly, if our lives are without trial and suffering, we’re pretty content about letting those dregs not only exist but accumulate. What a wonderful Savior we have though! He doesn’t want us to have dregs and the negative taste and scent that is the result of dregs in our lives. He provides to us trials as opportunities to have these dregs removed. God is definitely continuing to address these dregs in our lives and Kim and I praise Him for these opportunities. I can definitely relate to the fact that when my life has been relatively "at ease" as Moab’s was, frankly, I don’t spend a lot of time addressing and removing those dregs. Trials, and specifically this current one, is God’s crash course of dregs removal. Please keep us in your prayers as God addresses these sins in our lives as Kim and I pray and hope as well that our brothers and sisters in Christ are addressing and removing them in yours.
In His Love,
Rob
I hope you all know how encouraging the cards and letters have been. I also appreciate the prayers and support from my colleagues at Apollo. The physical goal of being home is to get stronger in preparation for the treatments which lie ahead – the next of which is planned for Cleveland again October 5-7. Spiritually, God is awesome and remains so. I’m going through John MacArthur’s series on James and am challenged and encouraged daily. Yesterday in his sermon, MacArthur took us to Jeremiah 48:11
"Moab has been at ease from his youth :He has settled on his dregs, And has not been emptied from vessel to vessel, Nor has he gone into captivity. Therefore his taste remained in him, And his scent has not changed.
The "dregs" mentioned in this verse refer to the sediment left over in the wine making process that settled to the bottom of the wineskins. Obviously good wine does not contain these sediments so the wine making process also included a process by which the wine was continually transferred from one wineskin to another. Each pouring would separate more and more dregs until the final result, after repeated transfers, was wine without the dregs. The Prophet Jeremiah is comparing this process to remove the dregs to the trials God uses in one’s life to remove personal, or in this case, national "dregs". Specifically here, Moab as a nation had not had to endure trials. Their life had been "at ease" for a long time, not having to endure captivity, etc. The result being that the dregs had not been removed and Moab’s "taste" and "scent" had not changed. In other words, sin had not been removed and remained as a negative "taste" and "scent". All of us accumulate "dregs" and frankly, if our lives are without trial and suffering, we’re pretty content about letting those dregs not only exist but accumulate. What a wonderful Savior we have though! He doesn’t want us to have dregs and the negative taste and scent that is the result of dregs in our lives. He provides to us trials as opportunities to have these dregs removed. God is definitely continuing to address these dregs in our lives and Kim and I praise Him for these opportunities. I can definitely relate to the fact that when my life has been relatively "at ease" as Moab’s was, frankly, I don’t spend a lot of time addressing and removing those dregs. Trials, and specifically this current one, is God’s crash course of dregs removal. Please keep us in your prayers as God addresses these sins in our lives as Kim and I pray and hope as well that our brothers and sisters in Christ are addressing and removing them in yours.
In His Love,
Rob
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
A rare "blog" from Kim!
A "rare" blog from Kim today! As cancer has again entered our lives and in a more "pressing" way, I’ve been challenged to delve more deeply into the Scriptures to see what God wants us to know regarding trials and His workings in them. I’ve relearned (if that’s a word) that trials are limited in scope and duration. 1 Peter 1:6 reads:
"In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials. "
So no matter how deep the pain or far-reaching the effects of the cancer, neither will last forever. God will deliver us. God also promises that He will not allow us to go through anything that we’re not able to bear. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says:
"No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it."
God’s Word is good. Now since our Lord is completely good and completely powerful, we seem to come to a problem. Why is suffering allowed? I have heard that we can trust that God has purpose in suffering but that we might not ever know it until heaven. But I think that God has told us His purpose(s). He means first to test our faith - do we have faith ? and secondly He wants to add Christ-like characteristics to our lives through the trial. Both of those purposes are explained in the book of James. Even some materials and some hymns/choruses I’ve read over the years only conclude that God is with us in the trial and that we can look forward to being with Him as reasons for comfort. I believe both of those to be completely biblical and very comforting but I think we come up short if we don’t look at passages such as those mentioned in James and in Psalm 119 that reads "God has afflicted me in faithfulness so that I would learn obedience." I realize that those two passages barely skim the surface in addressing the question of why suffering is allowed but I believe them to be in line with the rest of God’s revelation of Himself. And I believe them to be the very means that God uses to comfort His children in suffering. He brings the trials into our lives so that we will examine to see if we truly have faith (and is there anything else in the world that matters more?) and if we have faith, He means to use the suffering to make us like His Son. I haven’t gone through my life knowing what those truths really mean and I think I am only beginning to now. But God is teaching me that His relationship to me/us is all that matters. Of course, that is worked out in our lives through the blessings of family and friends but His desire for me is to obey Him through trials that I might become like Christ. Maybe I am over-simplifying, and maybe these are well-known and accepted truths but I have had to be "brought around" to see things God’s way. He is so kind and good and I am grateful that He is with Rob and me each step of the way and we can depend on Him to keep working on our hearts. I write this as I sit here in Rob’s hospital room in Cleveland Clinic. His pain persists but is mostly manageable. He is receiving round 2 of RICE chemo (of which he will get one more) and 4 and 5 of the intrathecal chemo (of which he will receive 12 total). The plan is to go home tomorrow and come back in approximately 3 weeks for the last RICE treatment and then go from there. We do continue to ask that you pray for both of us to want to grow spiritually –we really do hold that as our highest desire. And as Rob’s immune system will be weak (to say the least) over the near future I would ask for prayers for health that would enable Rob to go through the treatments and for me to help him. We continue to be thankful for your prayers for us, for the ministry of our church family (ramp to our home, meals, visits, cards and financial help) and all the help from our family and friends (visits, meals new well pump, taking care of Kim’s Dad and Nadia and again, financial help.) I hope I’m not overlooking anyone or anything, just please know that anything you’ve done for us has been a help and comfort. We feel that we are being undergirded by all of your care for us and none of it is being taken for granted. We thank you for all the love that you’ve shown us. We love you all also and hope that we can minister back in any ways God might bring up. It’s time to eat dinner so goodbye for now. In Christ’s love, Kim
editor's note: I asked the love of my life to marry me 20 years ago this very everning! thankfully she said yes though I still have no idea why! Prov 31:10-31
"In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials. "
So no matter how deep the pain or far-reaching the effects of the cancer, neither will last forever. God will deliver us. God also promises that He will not allow us to go through anything that we’re not able to bear. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says:
"No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it."
God’s Word is good. Now since our Lord is completely good and completely powerful, we seem to come to a problem. Why is suffering allowed? I have heard that we can trust that God has purpose in suffering but that we might not ever know it until heaven. But I think that God has told us His purpose(s). He means first to test our faith - do we have faith ? and secondly He wants to add Christ-like characteristics to our lives through the trial. Both of those purposes are explained in the book of James. Even some materials and some hymns/choruses I’ve read over the years only conclude that God is with us in the trial and that we can look forward to being with Him as reasons for comfort. I believe both of those to be completely biblical and very comforting but I think we come up short if we don’t look at passages such as those mentioned in James and in Psalm 119 that reads "God has afflicted me in faithfulness so that I would learn obedience." I realize that those two passages barely skim the surface in addressing the question of why suffering is allowed but I believe them to be in line with the rest of God’s revelation of Himself. And I believe them to be the very means that God uses to comfort His children in suffering. He brings the trials into our lives so that we will examine to see if we truly have faith (and is there anything else in the world that matters more?) and if we have faith, He means to use the suffering to make us like His Son. I haven’t gone through my life knowing what those truths really mean and I think I am only beginning to now. But God is teaching me that His relationship to me/us is all that matters. Of course, that is worked out in our lives through the blessings of family and friends but His desire for me is to obey Him through trials that I might become like Christ. Maybe I am over-simplifying, and maybe these are well-known and accepted truths but I have had to be "brought around" to see things God’s way. He is so kind and good and I am grateful that He is with Rob and me each step of the way and we can depend on Him to keep working on our hearts. I write this as I sit here in Rob’s hospital room in Cleveland Clinic. His pain persists but is mostly manageable. He is receiving round 2 of RICE chemo (of which he will get one more) and 4 and 5 of the intrathecal chemo (of which he will receive 12 total). The plan is to go home tomorrow and come back in approximately 3 weeks for the last RICE treatment and then go from there. We do continue to ask that you pray for both of us to want to grow spiritually –we really do hold that as our highest desire. And as Rob’s immune system will be weak (to say the least) over the near future I would ask for prayers for health that would enable Rob to go through the treatments and for me to help him. We continue to be thankful for your prayers for us, for the ministry of our church family (ramp to our home, meals, visits, cards and financial help) and all the help from our family and friends (visits, meals new well pump, taking care of Kim’s Dad and Nadia and again, financial help.) I hope I’m not overlooking anyone or anything, just please know that anything you’ve done for us has been a help and comfort. We feel that we are being undergirded by all of your care for us and none of it is being taken for granted. We thank you for all the love that you’ve shown us. We love you all also and hope that we can minister back in any ways God might bring up. It’s time to eat dinner so goodbye for now. In Christ’s love, Kim
editor's note: I asked the love of my life to marry me 20 years ago this very everning! thankfully she said yes though I still have no idea why! Prov 31:10-31
Saturday, September 12, 2009
home
It's good to be home. Got dismissed from St. Rita's Thursday at about lunch time and have enjoyed the time since then getting used to being home again. The church guys did an incredible job installing a ramp for my chair and I can't thank them enough. Everyone who has seen it has complimented on how professional of a job it is. You guys should go in business! My parents came up yesterday and spent some time with us. It was wonderful seeing them again as I haven't seen them in over a month. We won't be able to spend much time away from home - especially in places with lots of people like church - as my oconologist has told me to keep away from such situations in order to keep as healty as possible for treatments.
I'm trying to set up a good routine at home between rest/recreation, the therapy exercises they gave me to continue and devotional time with God. I've found I get into bad ruts when I'm in situations where structure isn't a part of my life. If I don't create the structure, my sinful tendency is to get into bad habits. Of course this is no mystery to God who provided structure for His first created beings Adam and Eve - dividing the time into day and night and giving them jobs to do. The fact that this was done before sin tells us that the need for structure isn't because of our sinful nature. I believe God is a God of structure and having structure in our lives pleases him. Please pray for Kim and I as we establish structure and schedule at home. Also please pray for us and our trip to Cleveland on Monday for 3 days of chemo. Again, please pray primarily for growth and help pleasing Him!
With love,
Rob
I'm trying to set up a good routine at home between rest/recreation, the therapy exercises they gave me to continue and devotional time with God. I've found I get into bad ruts when I'm in situations where structure isn't a part of my life. If I don't create the structure, my sinful tendency is to get into bad habits. Of course this is no mystery to God who provided structure for His first created beings Adam and Eve - dividing the time into day and night and giving them jobs to do. The fact that this was done before sin tells us that the need for structure isn't because of our sinful nature. I believe God is a God of structure and having structure in our lives pleases him. Please pray for Kim and I as we establish structure and schedule at home. Also please pray for us and our trip to Cleveland on Monday for 3 days of chemo. Again, please pray primarily for growth and help pleasing Him!
With love,
Rob
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Daily Routine
I’m beginning my second week of rehab today so I thought I’d take you through a typical day. The nurses make sure I’m up by 7:00 a.m. at which time I take my bath/shower and get dressed. For the first few days, I took a sponge bath by myself but I’m now wheeling my wheelchair to the shower where I then transfer from the wheelchair to a shower chair to take a shower by myself sitting down. I get dressed and am eating breakfast usually at 8:00 a.m. During the day, I have 1 ½ hours of physical therapy, 1 hour of occupation therapy and ½ hour of recreational therapy.
Physical therapy is usually broken down to an hour block in the morning or afternoon and an additional ½ hour in the afternoon if my hour block is in the morning or in the morning if the hour block is in the afternoon. The goal of physical therapy is strengthening the muscles that I still am able to use and trying to regain movement in areas I currently am unable to use. The therapy consists of lots of exercises that concentrate on my stomach muscles on down as well as practicing getting up and walking with a walker. Today I met my goal of getting up and walking unassisted with my walker 100 feet. It was pretty strenuous!
The occupational therapy hour is broken up to a ½ hour in the morning and a ½ hour in the afternoon. The goal of OT is to work on things I’ll need to function at home and at work. We work on getting in and out of showers, getting off and on toilets, etc. I started off learning how to slide from my wheel chair to various items but have progressed to being able to stand with my walker and using the walker to get off and on the items I need to function day to day. St. Rita’s has an area on the rehab floor that simulates various situations. There’s a car to get in and out of and a kitchen with a fridge, oven, microwave and a sink to work on. There’s also a living room and an area with carpeted floor, etc to practice movement on.
To be real honest, I’m not quite sure what the goal of the ½ daily hour of recreational therapy is. We’ve practiced going up and down ramps, went outside and wheeled on a boardwalk type surface and played Wii bowling. They probably figure I don’t need any help having fun so they don’t know what to do with me!
I’ve appreciated the many comments and e-mails coming my way as a result of this blog. It means a lot.
Joshua 1:8 is one the memory verses I've been working on:
"This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth but you shall mediate on it day and night that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous and then you will have good success"
Preparing the people of Israel to enter the promised land, Joshua proclaims that that the key to prosperity and success in life is simple: meditating on the Word of God so that the people will obey God's Word. Pretty simple formula when you think about it. I'd venture to say that all of us want prosperity and success in our lives. That is promised by God through the obedience of His Word. Of course the prosperity and success that is spoken of here is prosperity and success as defined by Him which, like God's definition of "good" in Romans 8:28-29, is usually different than ours. Prosperity and success in God's eyes is being transformed into His image through His gracious work. I hope that God's Spirit resides in you and that you are daily enjoying the prosperity and success that is promised through meditation and obedience of His Word.
Rob
Physical therapy is usually broken down to an hour block in the morning or afternoon and an additional ½ hour in the afternoon if my hour block is in the morning or in the morning if the hour block is in the afternoon. The goal of physical therapy is strengthening the muscles that I still am able to use and trying to regain movement in areas I currently am unable to use. The therapy consists of lots of exercises that concentrate on my stomach muscles on down as well as practicing getting up and walking with a walker. Today I met my goal of getting up and walking unassisted with my walker 100 feet. It was pretty strenuous!
The occupational therapy hour is broken up to a ½ hour in the morning and a ½ hour in the afternoon. The goal of OT is to work on things I’ll need to function at home and at work. We work on getting in and out of showers, getting off and on toilets, etc. I started off learning how to slide from my wheel chair to various items but have progressed to being able to stand with my walker and using the walker to get off and on the items I need to function day to day. St. Rita’s has an area on the rehab floor that simulates various situations. There’s a car to get in and out of and a kitchen with a fridge, oven, microwave and a sink to work on. There’s also a living room and an area with carpeted floor, etc to practice movement on.
To be real honest, I’m not quite sure what the goal of the ½ daily hour of recreational therapy is. We’ve practiced going up and down ramps, went outside and wheeled on a boardwalk type surface and played Wii bowling. They probably figure I don’t need any help having fun so they don’t know what to do with me!
I’ve appreciated the many comments and e-mails coming my way as a result of this blog. It means a lot.
Joshua 1:8 is one the memory verses I've been working on:
"This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth but you shall mediate on it day and night that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous and then you will have good success"
Preparing the people of Israel to enter the promised land, Joshua proclaims that that the key to prosperity and success in life is simple: meditating on the Word of God so that the people will obey God's Word. Pretty simple formula when you think about it. I'd venture to say that all of us want prosperity and success in our lives. That is promised by God through the obedience of His Word. Of course the prosperity and success that is spoken of here is prosperity and success as defined by Him which, like God's definition of "good" in Romans 8:28-29, is usually different than ours. Prosperity and success in God's eyes is being transformed into His image through His gracious work. I hope that God's Spirit resides in you and that you are daily enjoying the prosperity and success that is promised through meditation and obedience of His Word.
Rob
Monday, September 7, 2009
The hospital gave Rob the opportunity for day passes for Saturday, Sunday and Monday to both give us an opportunity to see how things "worked" at our home regarding the wheelchair, shower, etc and to give him the chance to get out of the hospital! They told Rob to take it easy, to not have a lot of people over or go to a place with a lot of people. They did not, however, tell him not to help install a well pump! There he was, wheeling himself and being pushed around the yard, helping lower and raise the pump, giving instructions on the rewiring of it, crimping and wire nutting (I don't if that's a term) wires together, even involving himself in the blow torch part of the operation. We got the new pump installed on Saturday, dropped it back down into the well, turn it on and........ nothing. We figured out the problem was somewhere between the pump and the house but were just too tired to continue! Thankfully, Rick Snyder was able to come over early Sunday morning and found out the the problem was with bad wiring. Wires were replaced and, Bingo!, we had water! We also had a worn out Rob on Saturday. He also spent Sunday at home but decided to stay at the hospital on Monday where he entertained a wonderfully encouraging visit with his cousin Scott.
Kim
Kim
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
One of the biggest blessings I anticipate from this blog is the prayer support I think it will illicit from those of you who visit it. I'll be sharing requests from time to time but also want to share with you what we desire for you to pray for generally. The verses I've placed as part of my title are very familiar to most, at least verse 28 is:
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."
I've heard that verse many many times through the years, especially when people are going through tough times. The common understanding is that, for those who love God, God is going to work out the events in our lives so that it culminates in good. Which is exactly what verse 28 is saying. However, since people rarely tack on verse 29 with verse 28 (we'll get to that in a moment!), the "good" that a lot of people believe is going to happen are "good" things in our lives. You'll get a job, you'll find a spouse, you'll get well, etc. etc. etc. Paul's Inspired Word from God on this matter, however, does not end with verse 28. As we continue in verse 29, we find out that God, not us, defines what "good" is:
"For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. "
The "good" in verse 28 is referring to being "conformed to the image of His Son" in verse 29 which is the goal and purpose of all who are truly believers after our conversion. In other words, what these verses are saying is that God orchestrates all events in our lives, even pain and suffering, to accomplish His purpose in us: becoming more like His Son Jesus Christ! That is an awesome truth! It gives purpose and meaning to what is happening with all of us! We don't have to ask or pray to God to reveal to us what His purpose is in our circumstances because He has already revealed that to us in His Word. His purpose with all our circumstances is to glorify Him and conform us in to the image of His Son. With this purpose known to Kim and I, we are also reminded that it is not simply going through or getting through the trial that makes us more like Christ but obedience in the trial that results in the growth that God desires us to have.
With that in mind, I would implore each of you to make the main focus of your prayers not on healing or comfort, but that God would continually help Kim and I (which He will of course) daily seek to glorify Him throughout this event in our lives and seek out our own personal sins, replacing them with right thinking and right actions, so that His Spirit would continue to conform us in to the image of His son. Kim and I have already seen evidence of this taking place in our lives the last couple of months. He has humbled us on many specifics that have been a sinful place in our lives for too long and has helped us put off those sins, replacing them with God's righteous replacement.
Sometimes the focus on praying for healing is disguised under the banner of "healing so that you can more fully serve God in the future." Obviously the purpose of good health and healing is to enable us to serve and minister without restrictions. However, I would ask that you be directing your prayers towards helping Kim and I minister NOW within the situation. God has already allowed me privileges of sharing His Truth in my sickness that I would not have had had my summer gone on without incident. From the "christian" chaplain at one of the hospitals who was trying to sell his "learning how to use the power god has put inside us to heal us" to a deep conversation/sharing of the gospl with one of of our three unsaved children, I've already been blessed with opportunities and look forward to more. Please pray for the ministry opportunities God already has in store for us on a daily basis.
Wow! Sorry I hijacked this blog and turned it into a mini sermon! Thanks for enduring it!
In short, Kim and I do covet your prayers and appreciate your desire to pray for us. Please use this blog(mini-sermon!) as a guide as to the specifics of what we would desire you pray for.
If you choose to put me on a church prayer list, I'd ask that you not just put it on there "praying for healing" but that you would explain specifically what we would like people to pray for. That's been a burden of mine through my years as a pastor, the amount of time we spend praying for what are temporal things on earth (physical needs, healing, etc) instead of what is eternal. When you look at the examples of prayer Scripture gives us, there is very little pointed towards the physical while the vast majority of prayers is for the Spiritual. We should do, and pray, likewise.
With love,
Rob
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."
I've heard that verse many many times through the years, especially when people are going through tough times. The common understanding is that, for those who love God, God is going to work out the events in our lives so that it culminates in good. Which is exactly what verse 28 is saying. However, since people rarely tack on verse 29 with verse 28 (we'll get to that in a moment!), the "good" that a lot of people believe is going to happen are "good" things in our lives. You'll get a job, you'll find a spouse, you'll get well, etc. etc. etc. Paul's Inspired Word from God on this matter, however, does not end with verse 28. As we continue in verse 29, we find out that God, not us, defines what "good" is:
"For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. "
The "good" in verse 28 is referring to being "conformed to the image of His Son" in verse 29 which is the goal and purpose of all who are truly believers after our conversion. In other words, what these verses are saying is that God orchestrates all events in our lives, even pain and suffering, to accomplish His purpose in us: becoming more like His Son Jesus Christ! That is an awesome truth! It gives purpose and meaning to what is happening with all of us! We don't have to ask or pray to God to reveal to us what His purpose is in our circumstances because He has already revealed that to us in His Word. His purpose with all our circumstances is to glorify Him and conform us in to the image of His Son. With this purpose known to Kim and I, we are also reminded that it is not simply going through or getting through the trial that makes us more like Christ but obedience in the trial that results in the growth that God desires us to have.
With that in mind, I would implore each of you to make the main focus of your prayers not on healing or comfort, but that God would continually help Kim and I (which He will of course) daily seek to glorify Him throughout this event in our lives and seek out our own personal sins, replacing them with right thinking and right actions, so that His Spirit would continue to conform us in to the image of His son. Kim and I have already seen evidence of this taking place in our lives the last couple of months. He has humbled us on many specifics that have been a sinful place in our lives for too long and has helped us put off those sins, replacing them with God's righteous replacement.
Sometimes the focus on praying for healing is disguised under the banner of "healing so that you can more fully serve God in the future." Obviously the purpose of good health and healing is to enable us to serve and minister without restrictions. However, I would ask that you be directing your prayers towards helping Kim and I minister NOW within the situation. God has already allowed me privileges of sharing His Truth in my sickness that I would not have had had my summer gone on without incident. From the "christian" chaplain at one of the hospitals who was trying to sell his "learning how to use the power god has put inside us to heal us" to a deep conversation/sharing of the gospl with one of of our three unsaved children, I've already been blessed with opportunities and look forward to more. Please pray for the ministry opportunities God already has in store for us on a daily basis.
Wow! Sorry I hijacked this blog and turned it into a mini sermon! Thanks for enduring it!
In short, Kim and I do covet your prayers and appreciate your desire to pray for us. Please use this blog(mini-sermon!) as a guide as to the specifics of what we would desire you pray for.
If you choose to put me on a church prayer list, I'd ask that you not just put it on there "praying for healing" but that you would explain specifically what we would like people to pray for. That's been a burden of mine through my years as a pastor, the amount of time we spend praying for what are temporal things on earth (physical needs, healing, etc) instead of what is eternal. When you look at the examples of prayer Scripture gives us, there is very little pointed towards the physical while the vast majority of prayers is for the Spiritual. We should do, and pray, likewise.
With love,
Rob
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
A day off of physical therapy as Kim drove me up to the Clinic for an appointment with my oncologist and to have my stiches and staples removed (Kim's getting pretty good at city driving which used to freak her out - getting lots of practice!). We also worked on a schedule of upcoming treatments. 2 more R-ICE treatments at the Clinic where I'll have to spend at least a night each time and 2 treatments through my ommaya per week which, thankfully, will be given through a local oncologist.
Rob
Rob
In May of 2007, I was diagnosed with a form of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. After undergoing chemotherapy (CHOP) from June through October of that year, the disease went into remission. After a consultation with another oncologist in March, 2008, a round of radiation as well as two more intrathecal injections of chemotherapy into my spinal fluid (I'd already had one) were ordered. The disease continued to be in remission until the early summer of 2009. What began as muscle pains in my calves quickly progressed to weakness and limitation of movement in my lower legs. I then saw my family doctor and a neurologist who began treateing me for neuro-muscular problems. The treatments did not help and eventually I had constant pain in my feet and could only walk with great difficulty and a cane. A stay at St. Rita's hospital in Lima led to more tests and scans which, while not showing obvious signs of lymphoma, nonetheless showed signs of inflation within my spinal chord. I was given a more aggressive approach to the pain with increases in pain pills and lost a lot of the mobility I had due to the relative inactivity I had while in the hospital. I was released but the pain only increased and the mobility decreased until Kim and I decided (with the urging of caring friends) to drive to Cleveland and check into the Cleveland Clinic's emergency room for treatment there. The more advanced nature of the tests and scans given there showed that the cause of the neurological issues was that my NHL (non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma) had recurred within my spinal chord. This is a very serious condition and the Clinic responded with entering me into a series of chemotherapy (R-ICE) and more injections of chemo into my spinal fluid. After one treatment of each of those, an Ommaya reservoir (a shunt of sorts allowing injections of chemo treatment into my spinal chord fluid instead of using lumbar punctures for each one) was surgically implanted. I was released from the Cleveland Clinic on Friday, August 28 and re-entered St. Rita's in Lima, this time into their acute rehab wing for more intense work recovering as much strength and movement from my lower legs as possible and learning how to use various devices I may now need (wheelchair, walker, etc). They're really not sure what, if anything neurological, will be reversed as treatments continue.
Rob
Rob
Hi all,
Thought I’d begin this blog as a response to the many who, due to the recent medical issues in my life, have called and e-mailed lovingly for updates on my condition. Keeping everyone informed through this blog will not only serve to be efficient as our time is limited right now, but will also give all of you the opportunity to not only read of what’s going on and respond in blog form and more importantly in prayer. Thanks for visiting.
Here goes!
Thought I’d begin this blog as a response to the many who, due to the recent medical issues in my life, have called and e-mailed lovingly for updates on my condition. Keeping everyone informed through this blog will not only serve to be efficient as our time is limited right now, but will also give all of you the opportunity to not only read of what’s going on and respond in blog form and more importantly in prayer. Thanks for visiting.
Here goes!
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