Treatment Results

Harry was scheduled to return to the hospital tomorrow (August 31) for a fourth treatment. We were also to receive the results from CT scans that were done last week. These scans were to reveal whether chemo treatments were working.

Well, Harry and I got an unexpected call from his oncologist tonight. When she identified herself on the phone, we both held our breath. All day we have been a little anxious about what to expect. But we both have stood firm (and is still standing) on God's Word: He will take sickness away from our midst (Ex. 23:25).

Harry's oncologist shared the results: the treatments have stabilized the tumors in his lungs. Hallelujah!! However, the tumors on his bones and on his adrenal glands have slightly grown. With that, Harry's doctor is recommending a change in the course for his treatment. She is adding radiation along with the chemo, but the chemo medication is changing.

Harry and I are receiving this report as good news. We understood Harry's next step for his treatment was a maintenance drug, but the doctors are changing that recommendation. Evidently they have been encouraged by the stabilization of the tumors in his lung. The new treatment regiment is a blessing and a new source of hope.

Here are our prayer concerns as we move forward:
1. Pray that God will give Harry's doctor wisdom as she designs a new treatment program for Harry.
2. Pray that Harry will be able to eat more and gain more strength to get ready for the next round of treatments. He especially needs to get his red blood cell count up.
3. Pray that the next round of treatment will be effective on the rest of the tumors.
4. Pray that the side effects will not be as hard. Harry has really suffered because of the treatments.

Thank you, one and all, for your prayers. We know that God is working and feel His presence in our midst. We also have a great sense that He is working through Harry's doctor. It's all because of the prayers that are reaching the throne of God.