Wednesday, January 13, 2010

continued improvement and gratefulness

I am writing this at about 9 pm on Wed. after being up since 5 am and having two medical appointments that had us traveling to Jefferson Univ. Hospital in Philadelphia, then to Darby, PA, and back to Swedesboror, PA. It feels good to have this much energy. My trip to Jefferson was for a meeting with my oncologist and my 5th Avastin treatment. I asked Dr. Glas to quantify the "significant reduction" in the tumor. He said it was 25% less than the previous MRI. We have also reduced the anti-seizure medication, Keppra, to 1/4. and the steriod, Decadron to 1 mg. We continue to move in some good and great directions, and of course, are very grateful to God in whatever way He is using the prayers of people, the medical intervention, etc. I will continue to let Him orchestrate all involved. Thanks to you all who are praying for us. Continue to pray that we will stay faithful to honor God in all we do. Tomorrow is a visit to my clinical nutritionist for live blood cell analysis. It is always intriguing to see the look of my blood cells displayed on her computer monitor from the micrope. I appreciate so much Janice Picking's research, study and insight to this whole area. There are so many great medical professionals that we believe God has brought into our lives. We have so much to be grateful for.  Romans 15:13 still continues to keep us focused, May the God of hope fill you with great joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

This verse along with the definition of faith that I have developed from Ken Boa have been two key truths and ideas that have sustained us throughout this journey. Of course, God and all that He is continues to keep us focused, strengthened, and walking this journey with hope and purpose.

Faith is my choice to make what God has revealed through His Word, my truth and reality, in spite of my circumstances, feelings, and whatever my culture tries to impose upon me.

My God enrich your life tomorrow and you get to know Him or if you already do, walk with Him

Joel MacDonald

Joel

2 comments:

Dad & Mom said...

Joel MacDonald,
We think you are amazing and we know it is because your God is amazing.
Barb & Tom

Anonymous said...

Pastor Joel and Dottie,
I just wanted to let you know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers always.

Deb Riendeau and family