At this time of the year I usually give some type of update about my health. I have been so blessed to give positive reports these last four years, but this one is a bit different. The last couple of weeks in July blood tests came back showing an elevated level of protein in my blood which is a sign of multiple myeloma. These last ten days I’ve been ordered to go through every test the doctors could imagine. A mass has been discovered in one of my testicles so Thursday afternoon I must have surgery. (I’m planning on taking Lance’s spot in the Tour de France next summer 
) The possible good news is that this may be a source of the protein increase in the blood. The possible bad news is that I may be singing soprano on Sunday. Seriously, this surgery sounds like a rather simple procedure. I should go home Thursday and be back to work Monday. Later next week another blood test will show if there is improvement in the counts. Until we know these results there is not much to do. Doctors have shared various scenarios and we trust God will give wisdom when it is time to make decisions.
I am thankful for the peace God has given our family. We have decided to keep things ‘low key’ since we really don’t know what is ahead. I feel great and have had an abundance of energy. For this I am also thankful. Please continue to love and serve those you know who are going through difficulty. At this point our family has everything we need. I know many will be praying for us.
I always like to end these little writings with Scripture – a great source of hope for the believer. Here are some words from Paul that have encouraged me lately:
“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” Romans 15:4
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13
“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.” I Thessalonians 5:23-24
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” II Thessalonians 3:16
Hope, joy, and peace,
Dana