Cross One Off the List

Michael's days of radiation are over. His report is that "it wasn't too bad." Each of the last three days, he was transported twice via wheelchair for a long walk through connecting walkways to the radiation department of Barnes-Jewish Hospital next door. After the typically long wait there, he would undergo about 20 minutes (10 minutes on each side) of total body irradiation. He would simply be positioned in an awkward sitting pose, be secured with various velcro straps and tape, and then . . . sit. Then they'd swivel him around and repeat the process. Even though it was boring, we pray that it accomplished its purpose.

The immediate side effects were not too severe. Thank you all for your specific prayers. After the initial day's sickness and jaw pain, he did not suffer much anymore. A general "sick" feeling remains, but it doesn't bother his spirits too much. The radiation is somehow quite harsh on the saliva glands which causes the jaw pain and some other odd reactions in the mouth. Again, Michael seems to endure those things with quiet grace. The long term effects of the radiation may not be felt for quite a while. He is expected to struggle with any exposure to the sun, cataracts, and some stunted growth within the next decade.

We are happy to say that we can cross off "radiation" and move on to the next challenge. Each day brings its own unique trials, but one of my favorite verses (Ps 46:1) says: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." What an amazing promise!