The following message was supposed to be put on the blog last week (8/21) but, due to technical ineptitude (mine), it wasn’t. Since it still remains pretty much the status of Gary’s treatment and condition, I’ll post it as is, with this quick footnote. Today, 8/29, was Gary’s 10th radiation session which means that we’re a third of the way to completion. Still not sure what effect the regimen is having, but we’re hopeful.
August 21, 2011 - – It was a month ago yesterday that we first learned of Gary’s illness and we’ve covered lots of ground – physical, emotional, spiritual – in four short weeks. Gary’s perspective of time has been a bit spotty and he tells us often that it just seems like 3 or 4 days that we’ve been dealing with his tumor; maybe that’s a mercy. The rest of us are tired but still honored and grateful to be carertakers of such a good soul. I played my last concert for awhile last weekend, having chosen to clean the slate so that I can devote my attention to my brother in the next few months. In the concert last weekend, I concluded with a story and song for Gary that we’ll try to post here sometime soon.
Gary began radiation and chemotherapy this past week and, after 4 of 30 treatments, there have been no bad side effects. The daily routine is really rather simple. Radiation treatments take about 10 minutes (the ride to and from town takes much longer) and chemo is simply one pill an hour before the radiation. Doctors and nurses have been more than kind and Gary reminds me often, with reference to the Amos Cancer Center, that “I don’t see this as my place of cure as much as I see it as my place of ministry.”
Thank you for your concern and prayers. We are more aware than ever that there are many, many people who are contending with all manner of hurts, losses, illnesses and challenges. Having you stand with us has been a gift indeed. Thank you. Thank you.
Sending BIG LOVE your way…and lots, and lots, and lots of prayers!
Connie
Prayers continue, my friend. Here and in Rome.
I loved the comment that your brother sees this as his place of ministry. It reminds me of a John Piper quote….
Don’t stop serving in seasons of great sadness. “Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!” (Psa. 126:5)
Tennessee is praying for your brother and for you and your family, as well.
Thanks for the update. Know that you will continue to be in our prayers. Hugs to all of you!
Thanks, Allen, for keeping us updated. We pray many times a day for Gary and the family. So glad that the treatment is not having a negative effect.
Thanks so much for the update! We continue to pray for Gary and the rest of the clan here at work. Please give Gary a hug for me and tell him I love him!
“I don’t see this as my place of cure as much as I see it as my place of ministry.”
Shouldn’t we all just “fill in the blank” of “I don’t see this as my place of ____________ as I see it as my place of ministry.” ?
Living the Word, loving the Lord–Thanks to Gary and all of your family as you lead us toward the Way, the Truth, and the Life. As much as we pray, we continue to be in debt for the inspiration you are.
“Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” Colossians 3:23
Allen, how wonderful you are to keep us all updated on Gary’s condition and to share your heart with us as you do. Our family loves you and your family, and we hold you close in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs to each of you.
Allen,
You and Gary have been on my mind and have come up in conversation with our many mutual friends more often than I can count. I pray you’ll both feel Christ’s presence with you in the middle of all this. Hope to see you soon.
AP
Allen, We continue to follow Gary’s progress and keep you all in our prayers. Your old pal, Jerry B
What a blessing for Gary to have the hope and peace as a Christian of being right in the middle of the will of God, no matter what the situation. I remember him saying before leaving for one of his many trips to Afghanistan, that he would rather people pray more that he be in the will of God, and less for his physical safety. What an encouragement his faith has been to me!
“…for such a time as this”
Heaven will only know how many folks will be won for the Kingdom as they come into contact with Gary during this time in his life. Thanks for being faithful in all things Gary!
Praying for you all!