As some of you know, over the past few weeks I have been to a few more Dr. appointments, but this time outside of Akron. I had one in Pittsburgh a couple of weeks ago and one yesterday at the Cleveland Clinic. I could ramble on and on about all the details about what was said at each appointment and how that compares or contrasts to other opinions and blah blah blah... but i'll spare you, and my fingers. After all, it seems as though my perception and understanding of my health is shifting with every new appt. So here is a summary of our most recent findings according to experts from the Cleveland Clinic and UPMC.
+ The tumor in my brain is not clearly progressing (growing) and there's doubt as to whether it has changed at all.
+ The dotted tumors up my spine aren't currently cause for alarm and aren't clearly progressing either.
+ The tumor in my lower back is presumed to be dying.
+ There could be a link between my tumors and a genetic issue present in extended family members.
+ Surgery on my lower back is still frowned upon and not ideal.
(Remember, All of this could change because both medical centers are still researching my tumor and all it's evil little nuances. Not to mention this is all based on my understanding of what the doctors said, which I mentioned before is always changing and rarely spot on.)
So it seems that suddenly, once again, the tide has changed. Once again it seems as though I can be a part of this process of healing. By eating with wisdom, taking care of my body, and counting on a large portion of God's grace, I'm back in the ring ready to go at it again. But please take this lesson i've learned to heart; Our health and physical well being is not promised to us on this earth and at any moment it could be taken away. While I'm excited at a potential improvement to my health, it's no longer an idol that I worship, and it shouldn't be one for you either. If my health or your health goes south, don't be surprised or angry with God because he promises blessings, but on a much deeper level. Over the next two weeks as the Clinic and UPMC review my case, my pathology and genetic information, everything could easily shift again; for better or worse. Pray for further strengthening of my spirit as my flesh seems to be really indecisive. Pray for the ministry I have through encountering so many doctors and nurses. But most importantly, pray that God would teach you these lessons i've learned through my journey so that you could be freed from idols that you are slaves to. It's liberating to live in a position where you don't count on your own plans for your life. I'm beginning to understand what it means to give to God our whole life, even the things we hold closest to us.
Thank you for your love and support, I really have been blown away by the generosity and support I've received from everyone in my life!
- Patrick
