MULL-ING THINGS OVER “You have cancer!” They are not the words any of us want to hear. But, as you know, they are words spoken to many of us. I heard them directed to me on February 11th. For the past several weeks, I have been undergoing a series of tests – there was a problem but no one could quite put their finger on it. Six weeks ago, I was admitted to the Wilmot Cancer Center at Strong Memorial Hospital. After a number of tests, it was determined that I had MALT lymphoma. The strange thing is that I feel great, have kept my normal schedule and continue to eat, sleep and enjoy life. But, the reality is that I have cancer. It is Stage One which means it is very early in its development. I am in radiation treatments - aiming at having thirty of them. I have had experience with absolutely wonderful doctors. I am being treated with the utmost respect and gentleness. There is really nothing I can ask for or desire because of the competence of these women and men. I am grateful to live in an area where there is a Wilmot Cancer Center and grateful to have such highly competent doctors, PA’s, radiologists and nurses. It has all helped me to remain positive and hopeful. I have chosen, with the support of the diocese, to remain working. At the moment, nothing seems to be inhibiting my ability to serve you and the Church. I love my calling and enjoy working – besides, I am the guy who makes the big bucks – I need to work for them! Seriously, if I become impaired, I am prepared to step aside, but at this time I am hoping you will allow me to continue in my role here at Our Lady of Peace and we will continue to walk these Lenten roads together. (To be honest, in January, I did not expect this to be the type of Lent I would be living.) The pastoral staff here has been wonderfully supportive and I am deeply grateful to God that I have such wonderful people with whom to work. What can you do for me? I would appreciate your prayers and good thoughts. There really is nothing else I need at this time - except to finish this round of radiation. In these weeks before Easter, I do not believe I will have anything to report except that I am continuing radiation. As I was talking with my oncologist, I mentioned that I have had conversations with many people diagnosed with cancer. I have always told them to take things “one day at a time.” She smiled at me and said, “Perhaps, Father, now you need to take your own advice.” I guess that is what I am going to do. I am writing this to keep you informed. I don’t believe hiding things is good for any relationship and I have promised to be upfront and honest. I also look at this as another way to draw closer to God. During these Lenten days, the Church asks us to seek out ways for purification and renewal which will lead to a deepened relationship with God. We don’t always have to do extra things, sometimes we need to draw grace from what we are involved in - in the moment. This is the case for me. There is a reason for this; I want to live out the reason. Thanks for reading this. Thanks for your love and prayers. As we continue our Lenten walk, we are reminded today that Jesus was tempted and overcame the temptation with the grace of God. Jesus was renewed during his forty days in the desert. How are you doing in your renewal? It was only days ago that those ashes were pressed to your forehead and the journey began. We need to nurture our faith with life experiences that come our way. Those life experiences are good, bad and indifferent. But, they are all life experiences. Surprisingly, as we do this – we see God!
Posted on: Sun, 09 Mar 2014 10:39:14 +0000
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