Prostate Cancer Update #1

BACKGROUND

Months ago, I had a routine blood test.

Those results indicated I might have prostate cancer.

That led to more blood tests.

Then came an MRI.

It was a 4 out of 5. 

Then came a biopsy.

There were weeks between each of those milestones.

Last week, I talked to my prostate doctor, Dr. Johnston.

I was informed I have an aggressive kind of cancer.

The next step is surgery and radiation.

She does not do either of those procedures.

She sent a referral to two different specialists.

She said their office will contact me by the end of the week.

But I was not contacted.

CURRENTLY

I was disappointed that I was not contacted.

I called Dr. Johnston's office today, Monday, June 23.

Over the weekend, I have been feeling anxious.

I have known I have prostate cancer for months.

But that description, an aggressive kind of cancer, has me worried. 

I was told that as long as the cancer remains in the prostate, I am safe.

But if the cancer metastasizes, then it can get into my lymph and blood.

That could lead to cancer infecting my heart, lungs, and bones.

Any of those could kill me. 

FEELINGS

Rationally, I know that I too must die just like every other human.

As a Christian, I understand and embrace that I will go to heaven.

My home in heaven will be much better than here on earth.

Frankly, I am tired of the negativity in the news. 

I would be pleased to leave this madness behind. 

Over the weekend, I was feeling anxious and mildly depressed. 

There is nothing I can do to move things along any faster. 

I thought many times about death.

I used all kinds of techniques to shift my attention away from death. 

I told some friends that I am willing to die soon.

But I would rather live much longer if I can best serve others.

I do not want to be lingering on a deathbed for years. 

That is my greatest fear.

LEGACY

My father lived until he was 94 and was healthy until his last year.

Both of my grandfathers lived well into their 80s.

I have been fully expecting to see my 90th birthday while healthy.

Presently, I am 72 years old.

I have been working on projects to get my many lessons online.

I have been planning and preparing for that for many years.

I have never been married and have no children or grandchildren.

Leaving my hard-won lessons for others after I die is my legacy.

I lacked wise guidance in my college years. 

I drifted into alcohol and drug abuse like my peers. 

I was on the fast track to die of an overdose.

Then God answered the prayers of my mother and her friends.

God radically shook up my life and opened the door for drug rehab.

I lived in an intentional Christian community in Houston for 18 months.

That is where I learned about the Bible and Jesus.

All those around me lived a life entirely devoted to following the Lord Jesus Christ.

My lessons night help people follow Jesus by faith daily.

Also, I have dozen of short and practical lessons about how to navigate life. 

GRATITUDE

I have learned over the decades that gratitude is an excellent antidote to depression.

I feel grateful that my prostate cancer was detected early.

There has been zero pain, so it could have kept getting worse.

It might have metastasized and infected one or more organs.

That could have killed me.

By contrast, in July of 2022, I had a cramp in my gut that sent me to the ER.

That was the first sign of my colon cancer.

It was removed surgically within weeks. 

THANKS

As I have told them my news about the cancer, they asked how they can help.

The primary way to support me and others is through prayer.

Pray earnestly with faith.

Besides prayers, you can help me by reading this and future updates.

Lord willing, the specialist will call to set appointments soon.

Each one will meet with me. 

Each one will arrange a hospital visit for their procedure.

After that, I have no clue how I will feel physically, mentally, and emotionally.

This kind of writing compels me to articulate my thoughts and feelings in words.

That helps me process the chaos swirling inside me. 

Knowing that some caring people are reading this brings me comfort. 

PRAYER

The main prayer request is that the cancer remains inside my prostate.

My entire prostate is surgically removed. 

It does not infect my lymph nodes or blood.

The radiation does its job as designed.

My recovery is smooth and easy.

I have energy, strength, and focus to continue my projects for the glory of God. 

I invite your comments and questions.

Thanks for each of your prayers.

Shalom

John