Day 0: "You have lymphoma."

Dr. Patel called and said the results of the CAT scan are that I have lymphoma. He told me over the phone because he couldn't have called and said, "Come on down to the office and let's have a little chat." Dr. Patel is a friend, and I could tell it was hard for him to break this news to me.

So there it is: a ton of bricks! What do you do with that?? I dropped everything and told a friend or two at work that I have lymphoma and I don't know what the future looks like, and headed down to Dr. Patel's in shock. Numb. Unreal. Really??

It was a Wednesday. That night was business meeting at church. Moderator and friend Rich led in prayer for me. Worship pastor and friend Jeff led in soul-strengthening worship songs. I still remember "Forever God is faithful. Forever God is strong. Forever God is with us. " (Thanks, Jeff. Manna!)

My friends in church expressed concern for me and to me. And still I was numb.

I went to Calvary Bible where I help with Awana, and they gathered around and prayed for me.

How I am loved!

I had given a talk a few days before about Peter walking on water, and so that was story was on my mind. I was in the same boat, so to speak. Jesus was inviting me to trust in Him in the middle of this raging storm and walk with Him. I was keeping my focus on Him, and not on the wind and the waves.

I asked Dr. Patel for some anxiety medication so I could sleep. I filled that prescription, but by the time evening came, I was at peace with the Lord. I slept soundly! And I haven't needed it yet.

My first post-cancer facebook post:

CT scan today shows 7 cm mass, likely lymphoma, in my left upper abdomen. Oncology appointment tomorrow pm. In the midst: "Forever God is faithful/strong/with us." Let's see what He has in store.