Some people start a blog because they're creative, expressive types and it's the perfect outlet. Others need something a little more concrete. The latter applies in our case.
If you're reading this, it's because we value the relationship we have with you and wanted you to be in the loop on what's going on in our family. Those who know Charlie well will find the humor in this: You could say the concrete event that got this blog started was Dave Ramsey. While taking Ramsey's "Financial Peace University" this winter, the FPU lesson on insurance led us to evaluate our life insurance policies. We decided to change the terms of our policy and shop for better rates, which then required a brief physical exam. The examiner came to the house one evening after work and took blood pressures, medical histories, blood samples, etc. No biggie, right? That's what we thought too, until we got the letter denying Charlie's coverage due to an elevated PSA (prostate-specific antigen).
The instructions were to have his doctor check him out and declare him healthy so they could continue with issuing the new policy. The doctor was as dismayed by this formality as we were, but he consented to do a prostate biopsy to settle it once and for all. The biopsy was performed, tissues sent off to a pathologist, and a follow-up appointment made. On June 8, we returned to the urologist's office to get the "clearance" paperwork and be on our way. As much as a person preps himself for the potential of bad news in this situation, you never know for sure what your reaction will be until you actually hear the words, "The biopsy was positive. You have cancer."
Those are the opening lines to the current chapter God is writing for our lives.
So glad you ran with this idea! I appreciate being able to keep up with what is going on, and how this came about.
ReplyDeleteI had a thyroid biopsy done in May, and had played the possible outcomes over in my mind. Thankfully, my results were negative for cancer.
Terri and Charlie - You know this already, but it is always good to be reminded that God is bigger than any cancer and although its reality can cause even the strongest faith to be challenged,we appreciate your obvious demonstration of faith. You can count on Linda and I to remind you how big He is and to be praying for you and His peace...we love your entire family and are honored God put our lives together...we trust our loving father.
ReplyDeleteThank you for including me in this. I know we have travelled some rough roads together. Please be assured that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteWow Terri, I'll be praying for you and Charlie as you walk down this road. I trust the Lord will hold you close and give you peace. I'll keep reading your blog to stay updated. I sure love you both!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you chose to listen to "Dave." You are regularly in my prayers. Thanks for taking the time to keep us updated. I see that this format has some definate advantages over email.
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