The Christmas Pig

So our crazy elders and friends came up with this Christmas gift when we had our annual "White Elephant" gift exchange earlier this month. The "Christmas Pig," or "Piggy," as she's called has been making the rounds in Greenville and getting her picture taken everywhere she goes. Then we text the pics to our friends who were in on the original gift exchange.

When you pinch her ear Piggy starts to dance and begins to sing, "Said the night wind to the little lamb, 'Do you see what I see what I see...." The lyrics are followed by several pig snorts that can be confused with other bodily sounds.

Today, Piggy was on the accelerator for my last radiation treatment! Well, she wasn't on it when I was zapped (can't have baked ham yet!), but she hopped on the table afterward, and then as you can see made it to Starbucks for a skinny latte as she is watching her weight. She even made it to the hospital to visit a friend in pre-op, but sorry, no picture!

Okay, so it's weird, I know. But what a gift to have friends who know how to laugh and to finish cancer treatments before the new year! All praise and glory to God. Now we begin the long road of periodic scans, labs and check-ups to keep a vigilant eye on cancer. All glory to God for the past, present and whatever the future holds. Happy New Year!

Reconciliation

Reconciliation is difficult to practice in a self-absorbed, self-consumed and self-important culture. It is counter-cultural. It means I don’t get to hold on to my anger, or the desire to punish someone for being wronged/hurt. It can also mean that despite my actions I don’t get what I deserve.

It’s difficult to practice because it requires humility, unconditional love, and mercy. When we have been wronged, hurt, betrayed, wounded, or, disappointed it is the last thing on our mind. Heck, when people disagree with us, or hold a minority view with which we disagree, we are often ready to dismiss them simply because they hold a different view. Forget trying to even understand, or reconcile our differences.

At the heart of reconciliation is the idea of restoration. Restoring those who have been the source of pain is not very popular in a society that’s always looking out for #1. We restore, or “make things right”. Whether we are seeking reconciliation, or being asked to reconcile with someone the response isn’t optional for Christ-followers. We are the beneficiaries of heaven’s reconciliatory work through Christ:

10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. (Rom. 5:10)

20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.

21 And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, 22 he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, (Col. 1:20-21)

When we said, “Yes!” to Jesus we acknowledged His reconciling work between God and us, and we accepted the call to go and do likewise. We who are “in Christ” have no excuse from the personal responsibility to be reconciler’s in the world:

18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Cor. 5:18ff)

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (Ephesians 4:32)

Reconciliation seems to come hardest within marriages, family, work and friends. Maybe it’s because those are among our most intimate relationships and we know so much about each other. However, if you stop and think about it that’s exactly where reconciliation ought to begin. The practice of unconditional love and forgiveness should be present within marriage and family following the pattern of Christ’s reconciling work with the church (Eph. 5) and thereby becoming the foundational model for the rest of our relationships.

Next to Holy Week, Christmas should press all of us who call Christ, "Lord," into loving others unconditionally simply and only because that's what God has done for us through Christ. And to think it all began with the birth of a baby in a borrowed feeding trough. Now that’s preposterous! And so is reconciliation in a 21^st century world. Imagine what our world and relationships would look like if we really practiced the reconciliation we so desperately need and desire from God in Christ with others? It would be a game-changer! Thanks be to God for His gift of reconciliation through the babe of Bethlehem. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

INCARNATION Wordle

Nativity Reflections & 21st Century Ponderings

Elizabeth didn't join the naysayer's at the news of Mary's holy conception. She rejoiced in God's work....

Do we?

Mary never waivered....

Do we?

Mary pondered....

Do we?

Mary treasured up the birth of the Gospel "all these things" in her heart....

Do we?

The Shepherds heard God through His messengers and obeyed.....

When we hear from God do we obey?

Magi traveled a great distance to see the babe...

How far are we willing to go for Christ?

Shepherds couldn't help but praise God for all they had seen and heard....

Are we still as passionate about the Gospel story or has it grown old?

Magi shared precious gifts of their era with God's Son....

Do we share precious gifts of our era with Jesus, or leftovers?

No one gave up their room in the Inn for Christ.

Would we?

Joseph was indeed human, but he didn't flinch in his obedience.

Do I second-guess God, or am I as resolved in my obedience?

There certainly is a lot to ponder! Hail the incarnate deity!

No Mr. Holloway You Are Student Athletes!

College basketball showed it's ugly side Saturday in Cincinnati in the annual grudge match between U.C. and Xavier. Xavier was blowing out the Bearcats and in the final seconds things turned very ugly. Two Xavier players, Dezmine Wells and star player, Tu Holloway shoved Bearcat's player Ge'Lawn Guyn to the floor. That prompted a fight and bench clearing that ended with officials calling the game with time left on the clock. NJ Star-Ledger Sportswriter Brendan Prunty paints the picture:

In the ensuing melee, several players on both sides were seen swinging punches as the benches cleared. Television replays showed Cincinnati center Yancy Gates punch Xavier's Kenny Frease in the face and take a swing at another player who had come off of the Musketeers' bench.

After being struck, Frease staggered to the floor only to come up bleeding heavily from the left side of his face.

"That’s what you’re going to see from Xavier and Cincinnati," Holloway said after the game. "We got disrespected a little bit before the game, guys calling us out. We’re a tougher team. We’re grown men over here. We’ve got a whole bunch of gangsters in the locker room—not thugs, but tough guys on the court. And we went out there and zipped them up at the end of the game."

No Mr. Holloway, you are a student athlete. You are not "gangsters"! Your logic is flawed and your immaturity is glaring. You are not grown men. Grown men do not behave this way. Perhaps you should read up about the greats of your game who paved the way for you and other current players who enjoy the privileges of an NCAA Division 1 basketball scholarship. People like John Wooden, Bill Russell, Dean Smith, Henry Iba, Tony Hinkle, Pete Maravich, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird. I think you will find that your definition of great players and sportsmanship is totally opposite of what they accomplished in the days before "one and done", and pampered student athletes. Your attitude and words are the exact reason why the word, "thug" (your word not mine) is so appropriate. Thugs throw punches. Thugs talk about being "disrespected", spew verbal trash and think that Tweeting your feelings is more important than shaking the hand of your opponent after a hard fought game, win or lose! Mr. Holloway your brand of basketball is not mine. Let your words be spoken on the court. Learn to treat your opponent with respect even in the face of a loss. And by all means please learn how to win with grace and humility because at the end of the day there is always someone better than you, or me on the court, in the work place, and life.

I Believe I Failed Her

Most cancer patients and caregivers have a pretty good handle on living one day at a time. However, there are a few who are so focused on the negatives that they can't remain open to hope. I'm not saying they are right or wrong. Everyone battling this, or any other disease has to decide for themselves how they will act, or react. If you are naturally positive, or optimistic you will most likely choose hope, or even joy. If you are a "glass is half empty," or skeptical type you will probably choose to doubt or mute any positives. But the point is that we have a choice in how we are going to act!

Recently I observed a woman waiting on her husband while he was being treated. I saw her 3-4 times as I waited on my own treatment. As patients talked about their brand of cancer, side effects, and treatment plans with hope, or confidence she would always counter that her husband's is not "curable" in a sad, almost morose tone. I can't imagine the load she is carrying but as a fellow cancer patient I can say that her husband needs hope, confidence and joy. I'm not suggesting we deny the truth, but medical professionals, counselors and social workers repeatedly stress the importance of a positive attitude in chronic medical battles.

Several times I attempted to offer suggestions of things that may help them in the battle like available support groups and resources through the American Cancer Society, but each time she countered with an excuse that seemed to say, "I'd rather sulk and be hopeless than find anything positive in all of this." Keep in mind she didn't say that, but it was communicated because one of the patients made a remark to that effect after she left.

Now before you agree, or disagree with me hear me out. I couldn't help but think to myself, "Where is their pastor, small group, or Sunday School class support?" Maybe they've tried and found the same response, or maybe they don't have one! More troubling to me was the self-indictment of my own silence. Why didn't I offer to pray with her before, or after my treatment? Why didn't I pull her aside and give her my phone number and tell her to call me, or my wife to cry, vent, or just share?

This battle is too hard to go it alone. It's too relentless to attempt to think we can fight it without the help of others. Left alone with this disease, I would probably grow mad, depressed, or angry. I understand part of what she's dealing as I watch my spouse play the caregiver role with hope, confidence and joy despite the "down days", or periodic setbacks. Yet, she chooses hope. She chooses hope because she is one of the most prayer-saturated people I know. Her faith in God is greater than her fear of this (can I say it without offense?) damned disease!

Who is the person, couple or family in your world facing a similar battle? How have you responded? They need more than one meal, a cake, funny email, or card. Some of us are blessed to have many people like this in our lives offering words and expressions of hope. But you may be the only one in someone else's life. Let me encourage you to stay the course with them and keep in mind it's a long trip. Even if you are worried that you may be bothering them, continue to keep up the support, conversation and love. Trust me, they will tell you if it's too much.

In my own experience, a good friend and woman in our church sent me a card every single week of my chemo. Nearly all of them were hilarious and they usually arrived right after my chemo that week. I got to where I looked forward to go to the mailbox just to see what she had for that week. She has no idea how much of a difference that one little act of love made in my life, not to mention the many acts of others who were just as faithful in different ways. My point is simple, we all need help on this journey of life. Some will be harder than others to help, but God has called us to walk alongside the broken, wounded, sick, imprisoned and hungry. I feel as though I failed this woman regardless of her perceived melancholy affect. I also felt extremely fortunate and grateful to be a cancer patient who is surrounded by people who love and care for me unconditionally.

1 John 4:7-12 is a great reminder to those of us who walk by faith:

⁷Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. ⁸ Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. ⁹In this the love of God was made manifest among us, thatGod sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. ¹⁰In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. ¹¹Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. ¹² No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.

God help us to walk in love!

God Help Her!

I don't even know the little girl in her jammies who was awaiting radiation after my treatment today. She was waiting with her grandmother who continually offered positive words of great love.

Her bald chemo head was covered with a beautiful purple sock cap. Her big brown eyes were filled with the fatigue of battling this dreadful disease. Yet, there was hope in her eyes.

I have to be honest. I could barely get in the stall to change into my clothes before shedding a tear. And by the time I got to my car I couldn't stop crying. God help the innocents who battle this dreadful disease. I'm more than halfway through this mortal life, but she has just begun. She couldn't have been more than 6 or 7 years old. And yet, there she sat, awaiting another treatment.

"Lord, today I humbly ask that you heal this little angel from heaven. Touch her body. Bring healing, comfort and strength. I confess that I don't understand why the innocents suffer, but I trust You, and I accept Your sovereign will. Grant her peace and a long life. Give her grandparents and parents energy, strength and grace as they continue to accompany her in this battle! Hold her as Jesus did when he chastised the disciples for keeping the children from coming to Him. Grant favor upon her little heart and life in Jesus name, Amen."

Punitive Silence

Abraham Lincoln said, "To sin by silence makes cowards of men." Mr. President, I think you spoke truth far beyond your term and years when you made that observation. Think about it. How often do you and I remain silent when we should speak up? Think of the many issues of social injustice, prejudice, and alienation we choose to ignore, turn a blind eye toward, or fail to speak up for those who can't. What about our simple inability to speak up and weigh in on an issue, or cutting remark by someone toward someone else?

When I read this quote by Lincoln, I'm reminded of all the kids in high school who were picked on, or made fun of that I failed to speak up/out on their behalf. Instead of speaking up for the "fat" kid, the "geek", or the "jock", I chose (more often than not) to remain silent and by choosing silence it was assumed I agreed with the sentiment, or sarcasm being leveled. May God forgive my silence!

Families can be punitive with silence as well. Husbands and wives can go for days without speaking and punishing each other over something they can barely remember, or something that doesn't really matter in the big picture of life. Siblings can punish one another with silence as well. We can disagree and take everything so personally that we fail to see the person we really know beyond the slight, or dig that prompted our silence. We punish by cutting off contact and essentially retaliate for the perceived slight or hurt that's been done to us. Churches can do it too. Leaders can punish those who appear to be disengaged, or aloof from the fold for real, or unrealistic reasons. Bosses can punish employees with silence because they disagree with the employees' performance, or opinion on a specific issue, or project.

At 50, I've come to a place in life where I have little use for these mind games. And at the end of the day that's exactly what they are, mind games. Tit for tat. Eye for an eye. It's especially troubling when Christ-followers engage in this behavior. Whatever happened to the Scriptural admonition to "speak the truth in love"? Or better yet to be reconcilers?

Conversation and communication ALWAYS opens the door to clarification and understanding. Assumption is a deadly game. When I choose silence in response to someone with whom I disagree, or perceive to know their motives and essentially judge their heart I am left holding a bag that's way too big. Bottomline: Presumption of another's heart/motives is above my pay grade!

Silence is appropriate when we are angry, or don't know what to say. But at some point we've got to let go, or else we'll nurse a root of bitterness that can often be ruled by perception instead of reality. There's a great parable Jesus tells in Matthew 18 about a man who let an issue take root in his life that birthed a spirit of bitterness and an unwillingness to forgive.

My friend, Craig Loscalzo often says, "You never regret extending grace!" Frankly, I have trouble practicing that as much as I should. If I'm not careful, I can get to a point where I actually enjoy inflicting the punishment of silence. To be honest, I'm too old for it. My life is more than half over and I don't want to go out sulking, withdrawing in aloofness, or hurting others based on perceptions (real or not) that I am unwilling to address.

God help me to be more forthcoming and willing to speak the truth in love! Is there someone you've punished with silence? Give them a call, email, drop them a note and be honest. But be open to hearing their side of the issue. Who know's, we might just be surprised that they weren't even aware of the "perceived" pain they've caused.

¹⁵ Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. (Ephesians 4:15)

Old Friends

This is my friend Carl. He's the guy on the right! We have been friends since the first week of class during our freshman year at Butler University! Yes, 32+ years!

Carl was in our wedding and I was in his. We have watched our children grow up, walked together through career changes, health concerns as well as challenging and joyful family times. As they say in Jersey, "We know where the bodies are buried." LOL!

Carl surprised me on my 50th birthday. We were at the beach and he flew in for business in Charlotte and then drove to the beach to surprise me! I was blown away and his unexpected presence at the front door that night at 10 p.m. reminded me just how special and valuable the bond can be between old friends. I was humbled by his presence and lengths to which he had gone just to be with me. I will never forget it. I only hope I can be as creative for his 50th next spring. We played golf, ate out and told lots of stories that get bigger and better every time we tell them. It was a very special birthday surrounded by family and my old friend. Thanks be to God for the small gifts of friendship and family that we often take for granted. Every day is a gift and these were indeed some good days.

William Shatner's "Deep Fryer Love"

Who doesn't love the original Captain Kirk and Priceline's "Negotiator"? Enjoy Shatner on Deep Frying Turkey safety! Happy Thanksgiving!

This blogger does not endorse, approve, or recommend videos You Tube may promote after you view this one!

Turning 50

Next week, Thanksgiving week, I will turn 50 years old! Hard to believe that my life is more than half over. Yeah, I'm not expecting to live to be 100 and that's okay. At near 50 I've discovered some technical challenges of my age. BTW I like my age. Since "I" am the one turning 50 most of these thoughts begin with that personal pronoun "I" try to avoid using too much. Here's my age-technology challenges:

1. My children can text faster than I can type on a keyboard or talk.
2. I am not nearly as multi-task oriented as I think I am. Most 12-year olds have me beat.
   
3. Video posts to this blog from You Tube can be risky cause I don't know how to keep it from going to You Tube's home page after the video, which at times has questionable content. Oh yeah, I asked a late 20-something how to change the setting to restrict that content and she had no idea so I don't feel so old. If you do let me know!
   
4. Why would anyone think their daily life is worth Tweeting? Really, it's that important?
   
5. Why would anyone think someone else's Tweets are worth reading? Lady Gaga has over 15 million Twitter followers per Google. Are you kidding me?
   
6. I have never been on Face Book and have no idea how to do it, but I sure got a lot of invites to be somebody's friend. It's nothing personal, but all my invites to FB go into my SPAM folder.
   
7. I had a "Linked In" account years ago, before it was cool, now I'm ready to take mine down cause I can't keep up with all the solicitations to be someone's contact, or add them to my list. Plus, just because you know, or are linked to someone on my list doesn't mean I want to be to linked to you. Nothing personal BTW.
8. I am grateful to God that my kids are adults cause I'm not sure I could handle the technical wave of the next generation and 6-year old's with working cell phones.
9. I have actually mastered hands-free calling and the BlueTooth system in both of our cars! Yes, it's much safer than holding a cell phone in your hand while driving.
10. I long for the days before cell phones. Oh how I miss the days when the person being right in front of you was the most important at the moment and not a beep, ringtone, etc., of an email, text, or voice-mail message to interrupt. I'm really debating going back to a beeper!

Okay there's a ton more of these, but my aged MacBook is dying out and I don't have a slick Iphone 4, or Ipad 2 to finish this post. Have a great week. Live strong!

Doing the Right Thing!

One of the basic underpinnings of human morality is that we all have an obligation to protect those who cannot protect themselves. If I leave a restaurant and see a woman being assaulted in the parking lot, I have a moral duty to intervene on her behalf. If I wait to call the police, or go back inside and call someone else, I have forsaken a basic tenet of human morality and character. And before you say, “ What if they have a gun?” think about the victim. It could be my wife, daughter, sister, etc., and God forbid that would ever happen, but I would hope that someone in that situation would intervene on their behalf. In many states it's called the Good Samaritan law.

I knew of this moral obligation well before I was the age of the graduate assistant who stated in grand jury testimony that he witnessed the alleged crime at Penn State. He is now an assistant coach. I knew this basic principle as a 16-year old kid. If I knew it then, how could a graduate assistant in his early 20’s not know what is the right thing to do in regard to an innocent child and felonious behavior?

The tragedy at Penn State University surrounding the allegations of sexual abuse by a former assistant coach against innocent boys is depraved at best. As a result of one man’s purported repeated sickening actions, a legendary football coach, an athletic director, another administrator and a university president have lost their jobs. And given what little we now know, I believe this was the right call, albeit too late in my personal opinion.

Most disturbing is the grand jury testimony cited by Mike and Mike where Paterno acknowledged, in his words, that “fondling and sexual activity” had taken place per the then graduate assistant who reported it to the head coach. This is in a legal binding document, not hearsay. Hello!!!! What part of that in regard to an adult and a minor is not illegal? What part of that doesn’t make you want to physically grab your friend and former coaching colleague and haul his butt before authorities? What part of that would allow you to let that person return not once, but several times to your practice facility and have further access to young people?

The victims and their families can take small consolation in the fact that someone has finally taken a step to do the right thing regardless of media spin, public opinion and the reputation of a storied athletic program. This goes way beyond trying to protect the reputation of a university or athletic program. It goes to the heart of institutional oversight and organizational culture. It is about character.

Ga. State Head Coach and former ESPN analyst Bill Curry is a friend of Joe Paterno and had these comments on ESPN’s Mike and Mike show this morning:

Our sacred trust as mentors, coaches, and parents is the children and anything that causes such horror where they are concerned has always been more than I can bear. And to think of the betrayal that is involved in this case…I do know and love Joe Paterno, we’re not like brothers, but we are good friends, I know this, whatever he perceived the right thing to do whenever he learned what he knew, he thought it was the right thing….In the coaching profession you approach greatness by always taking responsibility. Joe has taken responsibility for his actions when he said, “I should’ve done more.” That doesn’t make it okay and help the victims but it means he is being a man about it.

Somewhere, somehow, something very basic broke down. This is not purported poor behavior. This is a felony! A felony! You are entitled to your opinion, but I cannot believe that simply informing your superior satisfies your moral duty. The bar is even higher for those of us who profess to be Christ-followers. James offers this counsel to all believers in this regard: Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.

Today, my thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. They need to be the priority at every turn in this situation now. Their health, welfare, well-being and future IS the single most important issue. And the current players who have nothing to do with this entire mess are second. They came to PSU to play football.

Let us pray for healing and lest any of us think too highly of ourselves, or too lightly of our own imperfections we must keep in mind that there but for the grace of God go any of us, or our favorite school, churches, coaches, etc. And we must remember, God did not fail in this mess, man did! May God have mercy on us all and may the victims and their families be drenched in His comfort.

Grateful for Our Vets!

Friday, November 11th is Veteran's Day. Take time to thank a Veteran you know for his/her service. Our World War II vets are vanishing the way of age, but your gratitude toward those who remain will not go unappreciated. Vets of Vietnam, Korea, Desert Storm, Iraq, Afghanistan, The Gulf War, and beyond deserve our heartfelt appreciation for their faithful and selfless service.

"Fair Winds and Following Seas," to all of our Veterans!

What a Gift!

Organ donor's family meet the man their father saved

"In Sickness and In Health"

The real heroes of diseases like cancer are not those of us who suffer the disease as much as the caregivers who, like us, never planned, or intended to battle such a fierce foe. Caregiving for cancer and other diseases is like boxing in the dark. You can't really see it, but you are constantly jabbing, poking and striking back through countless acts of unconditional love.

When we stood before our family, friends and God nearly 29 years to exchange our wedding vows Teri and I were clueless about what the future would hold. We were young, in love and ready to take on the world. Everything was in front of us. Children would provide the first wake-up call that being married and raising a family is one of the toughest, but most rewarding challenges humans can undertake. Pastoral ministry wasn't even on our radar. She was interested in HR and I was passionate about a promising broadcast career. Soon enough our first house, careers, a mid-career change, more housing, seminary and another child would present another reality. A few minor health issues in those early years were dismissed by our tender age and the dream of many years together to follow.

We closed our eyes as we celebrated our parent's 25th anniversaries and before we knew it both of them were celebrating their 50th! During that time changing diapers gave way to birthday parties, sleep-over's, school dances, taking kids to practices, a couple of moves, rehearsals, graduations, and eventually college applications. As the circle of life moved forward a couple of serious health issues reminded both of us that we were no longer that invincible couple, like most in their 20's that cannot see beyond the immortality of youth.

In the late 60's and early 70's I remember watching my paternal grandfather bathe, dress and care for "Mama" as diabetes and high blood pressure stole her sight, kidney function and ultimately the breath of this life. BTW they both sing with the saints! On one particular visit to their home as a pre-teen I remember catching a glimpse of my grandfather's fatigue and utter exhaustion from caring for the bride of his childhood. I was too young to recognize it, but upon reflection I have a greater appreciation for that long battle into the night they both waged with faith, hope and courage.

Recently as I watched a couple with a few more gray hairs than us (okay so right now I don't have any hair) interact with one another as she received chemo at the Cancer Center, I couldn't help but reflect on the parade of loved ones I've had the privilege to see in the role of caregiver at that special place. One particular couple have only been married two years! He is too young to be fighting this disease and as I watch her care for him I can't help but think of how strong their marriage is gonna be before they even have children!

Caregivers aren't just couples. I've walked a short while with parents of young children battling terminal diseases and marvel at where they find the strength. A good friend and woman I admire a great deal in Florida put her career on hold to care for her mother as they battle breast cancer together! Her husband has been there every step of the way with his support. I think of my mother-in-law and her sister (a cancer survivor) taking care of their older sister as she battled cancer. Another friend in Kentucky moved her father back and reordered their entire life and business so they could attend to this godly man's physical needs upon the death of her mother. Caregivers come in all shapes, sizes, colors, ages, race, gender, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds.

I've watched my Teri keep a stiff upper lip when doctors words weren't hopeful. I've admired the grace with which she extends to me when her plate is absolutely full. She has managed to keep our household running, work outside the home full-time and attend to the needs of our children and extended family without missing a beat. I've seen the determination in her eyes when chemo fatigue has sapped the last ounce of strength within me. Not to mention the depth of mercy and love when the "nasty" side effects of chemo come at the least expected time disrupting routines, schedules, and plans.

She is among the strongest women I know and that is a very, very short list. I've admired her resilience and quiet strength for a long time. She always sees the world or a situation through the eyes of hope and God's promise. Don't let the quiet personality fool you, she's a rock and a tower! But I also know she is tired of boxing shadows in the dark. She is exhausted and like all caregivers finds little time for herself to unplug, rest, renew and unwind. Every morning and every night I watch her disappear with her Bible, prayer journal and a devotion. Without fail it's how she begins and ends her day, every day! She refuels and renews as she leans into the One who holds her and as the old African American pastor used to say, "props her up on the leanin' side."

Lord, my bride has been so faithful in this promise: I, take you to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or worse, for richer, for poor, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish; from this day forward until death do us part.

Sweetheart, you continue to teach me profound lessons of life through your attitude, actions and words. May God wash your soul with an abundance of grace for the countless acts of love on my behalf. May I be found as faithful! From an overwhelmed, humbled and grateful heart.

Love, Almont

God bless the Caregiver's everywhere!

Stand Up To Cancer

Today we're rejoicing over the results of my PET scan. In my oncologist's words it was "normal". We were humbled and blown away with gratitude to God for His wonderful gift of modern medicine and healing. I still have another round of chemo this week followed by a period of recovery before beginning radiation therapy. There's still a long road to travel with years of ongoing scans and labs to monitor the disease, but this is indeed fabulous news! Recurrence of my form of NHL is most critical during the first two years of remission. My doctors will be vigilant as they keep an eye on it. We will not live with that fear, but will forge ahead knowing that no matter what happens God's purposes and glory are far more important than anything I have and could face in the future.

My joy was tempered when I walked through the waiting room only to see the faces of my fellow patients and warriors battling many forms of this ugly disease! Every single day in the United States 1,500 people die from cancer! 1 every minute! This is too many, but this is way too many given the explosion of growth in medical, biological, and technological research and science in the last 50 years. It's time to Stand Up to Cancer! Watch the video and see how you can help cut the red tape and expedite the pursuit of a cure for various forms of cancer.

I thank God for Dr. Edenfield (Cancer Center's of the Carolina's) and Dr's Levitan and Assimos at Wake Forest University Medical School. My life is better for knowing them. May God grant them rest in their hectic schedules and much joy as they treat and heal so many hurting people! The fight is NOT OVER, but our joy has doubled. Romans 12:12

Toast To God's Glory!

Last chemo treatment was today! Lift your glass and toast the Healer and Great Physician! Now a 3-4 week break before radiation to recoup from the chemo and many of the side effects, but not all. I already had my toast of the java kind, a Grande, 1/2 Caff Americano! And who said "hump day" is a bad day? PGFWABF!

Slip of Paper Left in Cancer Center Waiting Room!

Randoms: PET Scan & Pastor Appreciation Blog

PET Day:

Tomorrow is my mid-treatment PET scan. PET stands for positron emission tomography. A PET allows doctors to see how the organs and tissues inside our bodies are working. The PET also helps doctors assess, or analyze how treatment, like chemo, is working.

A PET is a form of nuclear medicine. A nurse or tech injects you with a tracer (radioactive chemical) which travels through the body and is absorbed by the tissues and organs being examined. The PET gives my doctors a 3-dimensional picture and will help my oncologist determine the next step of my treatment plan. Regardless of my PET results one thing is constant and sure: God is glorious and worthy of our praise!

Dr. Michael Catt is pastor of Sherwood Baptist Church, Albany, Georgia. The name of the church may sound familiar because they produced the movies, "Facing the Giants," "Fireproof", "Flywheel", and "Courageous". As a PK and pastor I must admit that his latest blog on Pastor Appreciation is on target and humorous. Most interesting was his admission that the church lost 800 members during his first 10 years! So glad leadership were more focused on the big picture of what was happening in their church! Click the link below to catch his blog:

http://michaelcatt.com/2011/10/pastor-appreciation/

To Be Known, Touched and Loved

One of the deepest needs humans in pain, trouble, and struggle have is to be known (presence) and to be loved. Another need equally as strong is to be touched. It's hard to say which of these is the most difficult for some people to do toward others. It depends how you are wired as to which of these is most difficult. That said, I would rather be sincerely touched and affirmed by someone who struggles with it than I would by someone who is going through the motions and isn't the least bit sincere about it. You know, people who are more concerned about appearing to "do the right thing" than actually doing the right thing for the right reasons.

Jesus knew the value of touch, presence and love. He practiced it regularly:

• Mark 1:40-45 (the leper)
• Matthew 9:28 (the blind)
• Mark 7:33 (the deaf mute)
• Matthew 8:15 (Peter's mother-in-law)
• Matthew 17:6-8 (the disciples at the Transfiguration)

Who are you knowing, touching and loving? I believe it is impossible to be sincerely filled and rescued by Jesus Christ and then be unable, or unwilling to know, touch and love those Jesus knew, loved and touched. You will never know the difference it makes to the hurting. You can:

• Simply Sit with them
• Pray over them (and according to James 5 anoint and pray over them)
• Touch them (hug, pat on the hand or back)
• Send a card, email, text, or phone call but back it up with your presence (don't wait to see if they feel like it, there's some things you just do because it's the right thing to do!)
• Take a meal to them
• Eat with them
• Tell them you love them in words and deeds

I'm indebted to the many people (both those I know and those far away I've never met) who have reached out and touched me through prayer and deep abiding love. Next week one of the strongest couples of prayer I know will be visiting our family from several states away. I can't wait to be anointed and prayed over by this godly couple and my family in the spirit of James 5.

Touch someone today in Jesus name!

50/50 or Hope?

I'm not sure there's a "right" way to battle cancer. Everyone with the disease and their caregivers has to learn what works for them in managing, coping and fighting the disease. Our family has learned that we can't do this without faith, a positive attitude and humor. We're not ignoring the disease and we certainly aren't in denial, we've just learned what works for us. We are realistic and we know this is serious, but we aren't pulling a Chicken Little running around crying, "The sky is falling, the sky is falling!"

This weekend we saw the movie, "50/50". The comedy is based on the true story about a pair of 20-something's who've known each other since high school and one of them is diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. Let me be clear. The movie is rated "R". The humor and language is at times very crude. If you're uptight about language don't go see it and don't think I'm making an endorsement for such language, or content. However, if you decide to go I'm asking you to dig beyond the language and go to the heart of the story. As the movie progresses a reality unfolds that I'm not sure you can fully appreciate unless you, or someone close to you has been engaged in the cancer fight.

I laughed and cried throughout the film because I have experienced many of the reactions and situations of the guy with cancer in the movie. From the "freeze frame" moment when you are told you have cancer by the doctor; to the outlandish things people who don't know what to say, or do, say to you; to the frustration of having your life consumed by a disease; to poignant moments that reveal the depth of the struggle to be positive and realistic despite the battle with side effects; and the tender moments when you realize that the love of family and friends is the most powerful earthly force in the cancer battle.

While I enjoyed the film there was one thing missing for me in terms of my personal fight with this disease. It was the absence of faith, or even more so, hope in God. The main character was able to pull through by sheer will, love of family, friends and humor. I'm not that strong! I wish I was, but if I'm going to be honest I have to admit that I've only made it this far because of my faith and relationship with Jesus Christ, and that's more a tribute to Him than me. I am deeply flawed and was BEFORE cancer. I would consider myself a fairly strong person, but I am too weak to battle this on my own. I need someone stronger to cling to. I need Jesus. I'm not picking apart the movie. I'm simply saying that I desperately need someone/something bigger than a good attitude, positive thinking, and sense of humor to face this disease. I need someone bigger than cancer itself to help me navigate the choppy emotional and physical waters of cancer. I need Jesus!

I guess 50/50 is decent odds without Christ, but we are ALL terminal. Life with Jesus not only extends the survival rate beyond death, but it provides hope in the middle of today's battle whether it's cancer, divorce, job loss, or something else. It's a hope rooted in unconditional love that extends beyond the grave:

35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 36 As it is written,

“For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.”

37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:35-39)

Liv's Laugh and Love

A 9-year old brings purpose and peace to the life of a star college athlete. And he brings her joy. Watch Justin and Olivia's amazing story!

The ACS Movement for More Birthdays

The "More Birthday's" movement by the American Cancer Society has picked up video endorsements from Lady Antebellum, Maroon 5, Justin Bieber, Keith Urban, Celine Dion and many more recording artists. I can't watch these commercials without crying. While Lady Antebellum & Keith Urban are more my style, Ricky Martin's version puts it best--"here's to a world with less cancer and more birthdays!"

The Divine Healer

A friend is working at historic John Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. The other day she walked by the 117-year old, "Divine Healer" (aka: Christus Consolator) statue that adorns the lobby of the domed, Billings Administration Building. She said the inscription made her think of me and my current battle with NHL. She's an RN so mercy, compassion, care and healing are in her blood.

Jesus words of comfort in Matthew 11 are at the base of the statue:

"COME unto ME All Ye That Are Weary And Heavy Laden And I Will Give You REST"

Oh how I need that in my life and not just during a health battle. I run to Him when I'm tired, hurting, broken, wounded, frustrated, seeking forgiveness, and desiring peace. These words remind all of us who follow Christ that THE Healer stands ready to hold, comfort, heal and help all of those who are weighed down by trouble, pain, sickness, or loss. This brings to mind a word of fulfilled prophecy about Christ found in Isaiah 53:

But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on him,
and by his wounds we are healed. {emphasis mine}

Everyone needs the Healer!

Click here (John Hopkins Hospital) for the full scoop on the statue from the John Hopkins' website.

Hold Me Jesus

Soul poet, Rich Mullins was only 41-years old when he went home to be with Jesus in 1997. It's hard to believe he's been gone that long. The many songs he left us are full of stirring lyrics and rich melodies. Succeeding generations have rediscovered the gifts he left us through recordings of present-day artists like Third Day, Todd Agnew, Rebecca St. James, Big Daddy Weave, Michael W. Smith and many others. In times of great trouble, challenge, pain and fear I run to the lyric rich hymns of my childhood and the music of artists like Rich Mullins. Lately, "Hold Me Jesus" has been running through my heart and head. Whether you're facing financial struggles, trouble in your marriage, aging parents, health battles, parenting issues, or whatever life has brought, I hope Rich's words wash over your soul as they have mine through the years.

Hold Me Jesus by Rich Mullins

Well, sometimes my life
Just don't make sense at all
When the mountains look so big
And my faith just seems so small

CHORUS:
So hold me Jesus, 'cause I'm shaking like a leaf
You have been King of my glory
Won't You be my Prince of Peace

And I wake up in the night and feel the dark
It's so hot inside my soul
I swear there must be blisters on my heart

CHORUS

Surrender don't come natural to me
I'd rather fight You for something
I don't really want
Than to take what You give that I need
And I've beat my head against so many walls
Now I'm falling down, I'm falling on my knees

And this Salvation Army band
Is playing this hymn
And Your grace rings out so deep
It makes my resistance seem so thin

CHORUS

You have been King of my glory
Won't You be my Prince of Peace

The Chemo Fog/Effect

For most cancer patients there are days when you don't feel exactly "right" and you know it's the accumulative effects of chemo, but you're hard-pressed to point to one specific side effect. I don't know if there is a name for it, but I've decided to call it the "Chemo Effect," or "Chemo Fog". It's more than a cold, more than the flu, totally unpredictable and altogether annoying.

You can wake up without nausea, leg cramps, mouth sores, tingling/numb hands and toes thinking you've got the day by the horns and suddenly realize you are having trouble finding specific words to complete a sentence. And you know the word, but you just can't form it in your brain. It's called Chemo Brain. Or, you battle mouth sores before bed and wake the next morning feeling pretty good only to discover that after a shower and getting dressed you are completely wiped out and you have killer reflux that won't go away despite the best reflux meds! You realize the toxic goo causing the mouth sores is now causing them in your gut! My point is that just when you think you've got a handle on your body something else happens.

Work can be a real challenge because at times you have trouble concentrating and the latest side effects are not very helpful in that department either. Twice this week I've had the best intentions to stay with it in my office, but have had to leave. Several times I've had these (don't laugh I'm not any more nuts than I was before chemo!) out of body experiences-----yes, something just doesn't feel quite right and you know you are not at 100%. It's like there's a fog over your body, but you can't explain it. I'm not talking about being unable to drive, or walk. And no, I don't see visions, or speak Yugoslavian, or suddenly have the ability to sing opera, but something just isn't quite right and no matter how hard you try you can't seem to make it better. It's okay because tomorrow there will be a different side effect as we all hang on to that week right before a chemo cycle when we are finally feeling a little normal, our counts are back up and we're about to go down that awful treatment road one more time!

Clinging to Jesus becomes even more important, vital and necessary with each cycle of treatment.

My People

Sitting in the infusion lab and getting the latest installation of chemo I look around and realize, "I fit here with these people." At the Cancer Center bald is beautiful and we stare at the people with hair (not really) because there are more of us without hair, lol.

Time in the chair is passed with loved ones and close friends stopping by to sit awhile, crossword puzzles, catching up on email, some watch DVD's, a lot of reading is done and some serious Ipod listening happens. Laughter is the ultimate medicine as you discuss the humorous side of cancer, chemo and it's side effects with fellow patients.

As the 6-hour drip party passes the second hour, the laughter between a group of us is abruptly halted by a harsh reminder that while this disease and its treatment can't steal love and joy, it does hammer you physically. A woman (not receiving treatment that day) is escorted into the lab by one of the caring front desk assistants as the woman is vomiting into her hands and nurses race to get a tray for her. I watch as my nurse leaps from doing something else and lovingly, tenderly puts her arm around the patient and walks her into a private area with a hospital bed and draws the curtain. After a couple of hours, some fluids and observation her husband is able to take her out with a wheelchair. She manages a faint smile as we cheer her on in total empathy.

I've learned that humor/laughter is an absolute must for those battling cancer and their family. A few, and I mean very few patients I've met have no sense of humor, or the ability to laugh in the middle of all of this. But, everyone has to process it in their own way and there's no one right way to cope. However, the sober reminder that this is a battle with serious side effects and symptoms is always lurking, like the woman escorted into the lab vomiting.

I guarantee she lost NO dignity among us as tough as vomiting in public can be. She is brave to us another fighter in the battle. She was a trooper and all of us have been there. She is another anonymous hero to me. I look around at these beautiful bald, wig and ballcap-covered heads and smile. I say silently to God, "Lord, these are my people! Heal, protect, comfort and encourage them with your grace. And for those battling this without Your presence help me to reveal You to them in gentle love when the opportunity arises. Amen."

Every life is terminal. And we are ALL, regardless of our health one day closer to seeing Jesus!

LIVESTRONG Manifesto

Remember The Past With An Eye on the Future

Do you remember this picture of the NYC firefighters raising the American flag at ground zero after 911? Do you remember the countless numbers of people from across the country (First Responders, Disaster Relief volunteers and more) who raced to NYC to pitch in and help with the rescue and clean up? What about the public memorial and prayer services across the country? Ribbons and flags on our cars? A deep sense of national pride, unity and camaraderie permeated our country.

The act of terror on American soil touched every American in some way. One of my favorite images following that dark day of terror was September 15th (only 4 days after the tragedy) when members of Congress on both sides of the aisles joined together and sang God Bless America on the steps of the Capitol. I remember thinking at that time, "perhaps our unity and purpose really is greater than any difference we have." From tornadoes, to hurricanes, war, heinous community crimes, or specific social injustices, Americans have an incredible ability to pull together and help each other in the face of such tragedies. I'm still naive enough to believe that the American people are the greatest resource of our country!

Today, our country seems so divided over politics and the economy. The vitriol and finger-pointing coming from Washington to the campaign trail is sad in light of how we responded as a united people on 911 and to support the Gulf region after Katrina, our military in Iraq and Afghanistan and more recently, the devastating 2011 southern tornadoes.

Some may say it takes a tragedy to bring Americans together, but I don't buy it. While tragedy may ratchet up our awareness/urgency, I think it reminds us how precious life is and how blessed we are as a people and I believe our unity runs deeper than our political party affiliation. Sure we have honest differences and ideas about the best way for our country to proceed for the future, but we are in this together!

I think the church forgets this as well. Sometimes we get set on our particular concern/agenda, or area of ministry at the exclusion of the big picture and God's glory. The cause of Christ is ill-served by division and disunity. Worship ceases where there is division (I did not say differences).

When we remember 911 we honor the thousands of victims and heroes of that dark day. We remember that even the worst imaginable attack on a sovereign nation can't withstand a nation at prayer and countless acts of love, charity, unity, hard work and commitment.

This weekend let's remember 911, but let's do it with an eye on the future and with a unity of purpose that is so powerful it stifles any attempts to bring harm to innocent people both at home and abroad! A united nation is a formidable opponent to evil and terror because it rises out of the ashes of destruction.

Oh yeah, for those who are Christ-followers remember that Jesus said we are to be known by our love for one another, even when we disagree. I also believe that a united church (all Christ-followers) is indeed the most formidable opponent to the evil one and terror because at the end of the day love for one another lives beyond destruction.

Side Effects I'd Like to Have

Anyone familiar with chemo knows there are side effects that accompany the toxic brew used to kill cancer cells and unfortunately good cells too.

I've had the privilege of experiencing the following common side effects, but I'm grateful they haven't been simultaneous, or continuous.

Here are some of the common side effects for my particular treatment, R-CHOP:

• Numbness/tingling/loss of feeling in hands and toes
• Hair loss
  
• Dry-mouth, Mouth and throat sores
• Nausea
• Cold, Sinus or Flu-like symptoms
• Constipation
• Risk for infection (neutropenia) due to low cell/blood counts
• Chemo brain (memory loss, focus issues, trouble finding the right word, etc.
• Bone pain (for those on Neulasta to boost blood cell production)
• Nosebleeds
  

It takes awhile for some of these to start so you can't get cocky and think you've dodged the bullet because you don't have one of them the week of treatment. Mine started 7-10 days after chemo and they continue, but none are severe. Then you have to begin the battle to treat the side effects! Welcome to the vicious cycle of chemo.

It occurred to me that some of us would like some alternative side effects instead of the common ones previously listed. So here's some side effects I'm hoping to develop in no particular order:

• Six-pack abs
• A head of thick and full black hair
• The ability to dunk a basketball
  
• Genius IQ
• Fluent in a second language without studying
• Plumbing and HVAC skills
• 7 strokes off my golf game

You gotta laugh! I thank God for my medical team and their vigilance in dealing with the ongoing issues related to chemo. My issues are nothing compared to some of my sisters and brothers battling for their lives with chemo and transplants. They are the real heroes.

Happy Birthday Dad

Labor Day weekend we celebrate my Dad's 80th birthday! As a PK my Dad has served in many capacities in my life. Dad is, or has been my: buddy, mentor, teacher, coach, pastor, friend, father and listener. He has loved my Teri like his own daughter and both of our children have been drenched in "Gran Dad'" love their entire life.

I could fill this blog with attributes and stories about my Dad and his character, integrity, humility, and love.

As I look back on my 49 years of Dad's 80, I smile. Yes, a smile is what comes to mind first and foremost. Dad has always had an extraordinary sense of humor, even in the middle of pain. His trademark smile is distinct. His eyes twinkle when he's about to tell a joke and you just know he is getting tickled. He sees humor everywhere and he isn't afraid to laugh at himself.

This weekend we will spend time as a family remembering and recalling special times as a family and I guarantee we will laugh often. As we gather together this weekend we will embrace the wisdom writer's truth: "A cheerful heart is good medicine."
Happy birthday Dad!

You Oughta Try....

So here's just one of many conversations well-meaning, but uninformed people often make when they are trying to reach out, or connect to someone with cancer and they really don't know what else to say. This one happened today with someone I barely know, but they know I have NHL:

"So, have you ever heard of colloidal silver? My aunt takes it and it has removed all her age spots! You should look into it. It might be worth checking out."

It's as if to say without actually saying, "Hey, maybe you should try this junk on your cancer." Others are far more blatant in promoting their "all natural" suggestion as a cancer treatment, or cure. Even more absurd is the fact that most of the people who pass this Internet medicinal lore along don't partake of the very thing they are recommending you put in your body, LOL!

Never mind the total lack of credible medical research on the natural cure being promoted, or the fact that if one of them could actually cure cancer big Pharma, or a major cancer research facility would have already snagged it up. It's like this elusive cure has been hiding in the shadows and no one knows about it except for a faithful remnant of people who recommend it to their cancer-stricken friends and family. Think about it. Seriously, really, think about it!

So to date here are the cures or "cancer reducing" diets or supplements people have passed on to me of which several also happen to be on the urban myth fact checking site, www.snopes.com

• Coffee
• Lemons
• Colloidal Silver
• Wheatgrass
• Lemongrass
• Asparagus
• Vinegar
  

I know most of these come our way via well-meaning folks, but before you stop and send the latest "cure" to someone via email think about it. How would you feel if you got more than one of these a day when your life is already in the hands of some of the areas most competent minds regarding the research and treatment of cancer? That's not to say that certain vegetables, juices and vitamins aren't beneficial, especially from the damaging effects of chemo, like free radicals that can roam the body after treatment, or those that help boost an already frail immune system. I promise you that someone with cancer would rather just have you sit with them, listen, or hold them in your prayers before someone sends them another miracle diet, or cure.

So here's a suggestion from someone who has cancer. Before you send it, or recommend it to someone else you try the suggested diet subsidy, "natural/organic" treatment, or cure yourself for 6 months followed by a comprehensive medical exam and labs to determine its legitimacy.

If you have happened to pass one of these along to me thanks for your intent to help. Don't take this personally, but try to put yourself in our shoes. I'm just asking you to exercise the same kind of wisdom and restraint ALL of us should before passing anything on to someone else whether it's by text, Internet, Twitter, Facebook, etc. Do your homework because you can rest assured that those of us who have cancer are learning and reading everything we can about our particular brand of cancer. My oncologist at Wake Cancer Center said I needed to be prepared for this and that people would come out of the woodwork offering me the most outlandish cures, or diets for cancer. I laughed when she said it and had no idea the depth of truth she was speaking. Man, she absolutely nailed it! Oh yeah, she and my Greenville oncologist happen to have advanced degrees and experience in the treatment, cure and management of cancer.

Okay, so I saved the best for last. Someone actually emailed me a diet that "prevents" cancer once they knew I was diagnosed with cancer, LOL! So if you have cancer already how does a preventative cancer diet work? You just gotta laugh, it is indeed the best medicine.

Sea Sickness Feeling

My new friend is hot, ginger tea. While my chemo comes with great anti- nausea meds it still doesn't totally cover the sea sickness feeling. I'm a coffeeholic, but I've cut way back on my java since chemo and have substituted more hot teas (ginger and green). I'm trying my best to avoid things that I really enjoy while on chemo so I don't risk creating a "bad memory" with the nausea.

Yesterday I was overcome with the love of our church family as I returned for the first time since my surgery in late July and my lymphoma diagnosis. I can't express the depth of our gratitude for the love these saints and sinners have lavished on us. Meals, cards, notes, texts, phone calls, driving me to chemo and sitting with me during the drip, and much more have been the tangible hands and feet of Jesus! I remain, overwhelmed, grateful, humble and broken. Labs on Thursday should give us a good idea where my blood counts are after last week's first round.

Bald Guy Update

There's something quite funny about a nurse covered in a gown, gloves and mask pulling chemicals out of a bag marked, "biohazard" to put in your IV! It's as if to say "we can't touch this stuff but we are going to inject you with it." Ha!

Managed the Rituxan without having to stop the infusion yesterday (apparently it's a big deal that I didn't have to stop), but I made up for it once home as I had the the typical flu-like symptoms (chills, fever, headache). Felt okay this morning so we were all systems go for the C-H-O-P part of the R-CHOP regimen. It took about 4 hours. In September for my second cycle I will get it all in one day, whoopee. Tomorrow I go for a blood cell boosting shot that actually hurts the bones because it is a inflammatory that helps the bones produce bone marrow and ultimately blood. This is important because the higher the cell count the better able you are to fight off, or battle potential infections. Hopefully the alopecia (hair loss) will kick in soon because I have already had to shave my head twice since the initial shaving! Funny, when I had thinning hair I couldn't grow hair and now that I'm trying to keep it off my head I can't, lol.

Big thanks to my nurse, Lynn! She's from Western MA and has a bulldog I really want to steal. Also thanks to my friends Gladys, and Dan J., who visited me yesterday at the Cancer Center. And Dan C., who not only dropped me off this morning, but stayed for about an hour!

I thought the 100 mg. of prednesone (5 days in a row following treatment days) would have me bouncing off the walls, but so far it's not keeping me awake! Maybe the phenegran is helping with that, ha. I met a couple who are in their second battle with cancer. She beat lymphoma 6 years ago, but was diagnosed a few months ago with breast cancer! Yes, she is one tough cookie and new hero of mine. Today she was wearing what her husband called her "bad girl" wig. I couldn't even tell she had a wig on it looked so good. What a precious couple with a great sense of humor!

CANCER TIP OF THE DAY: Hard candy and mouth lozenges are your friend! Tip #2: If you know someone with cancer don't be afraid and don't avoid them because you don't know what to say. That will backfire and the person with the disease will be wondering what they've done to you to deserve the silence. Even if you don't know what to say just do what my friend Sam says: "Just be there, you don't have to say anything." He's right!

Okay so we'll see how the days that follow go. You hang in there and remember cancer can't steal love, or joy.

Romans 12:12