This week, however, we have really been tiny.... just mom, dad, and the 2 girls. At first with the crisis we are going through, I was a bit worried about us not being "bigger".... you know, there is power in numbers.
But this is the first time since Jennifer and I have been married (not to each other, of course) and since we have had kids (which for me, was 20 years ago) that we have been "back home" with just US 4. And it has really been kind of nice. Of course we love our spouses and we love our kids, but as we have faced the problems of this week, it has been actually kind of powerful to work through them as our little unit.
I think a bit part of that power is coming from the support of our networks and the love that we have felt from all of you.
Without going into too much detail, I wanted to post an update just to let you know what is happening so you will know WHAT to pray about if you are one that is remembering my family in your prayers.
Yesterday we learned that the tumor on my dad's esophagus is too large to surgically remove. It is stage 2 cancer, but the good news is that it is still self-contained and has not spread to his lymph nodes. The plan now is that he will have to go through chemo and radiation for about 20 consecutive days in an effort to shrink it. After the treatment, the surgeon will determine if it can be removed. So we had some good news as well as some bad news, but we have decided that KNOWING what we are facing is so much better than worrying about the unknown.
We are hoping to meet with the oncologist before Jennifer and I leave on Saturday to go back home, so that we at least have a name and a face and a schedule for the treatment....
The hardest part is leaving mom to do this on her own, but we are thankful that she has such a strong friend network close by that will be here to support them both.
So from our tiny family to all of you... thank you for the prayers, the positive energy and the encouragements that you continue to send our way. Please keep 'em coming.....
7 comments:
I've only just started following your blog. I am one of those strangers (half Danish) now sending positive vibes your way.
Thinking of you all!
I haven't had a moment to respond to your message on FB sweetie and I apologize. I'm so sorry to hear your fears were confirmed when it came to your dad. I'm glad though that it's not the worst stage and there is still hope. He will of course be in our prayers as you all will.
I know it's going to be so hard for you and your sister to leave your parents, your desire to stay and help and your desire to go back to your life are both strong. It won't be easy but know that God gives us all the strength to deal with the things he throws our way..and you'll make it through this as will your family.
Big warm hugs from Norway :-)
Keeping your family in my thoughts!
The older I get, the more envious I am of those large families. Your parents must be so grateful that you and your sister were able to be there this week. Prayers going up for your dad and mom.
He's still in our prayers here in Vestlandet.
Gud velsignet dere. <3
I'm really sorry to read about this diagnosis. Your father and family will remain in my prayers.
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