A few months ago I shared not just one but two different posts on the surprise medical emergency that I found myself faced with 7 months ago. As a follow up, I wanted to pass along a few new updates here on the backend of the Fall open heart surgery and subsequent diagnosis of the cancer mass that was removed in October:

-My wife and I spent a full day at the hospital a few weeks ago, getting a chest CT and brain MRI scans. Praise God, each of these were CLEAR! The doctor will do a PET scan and another chest CT again in July as we keep praying for good news. My cardiologist also just let us know that they are doing another Echo test to check one artery that they are not sure is functioning properly. More news to come on this in July. 

-The recovery from open heart surgery has been brutal. Pressure on my chest bones is still uncomfortable now over 7 months later. The doctors tried to tell me how slow and tedious the recovery would be, and they couldn’t have been more correct.

-Post-surgery complications can often be significant. I came down with a wicked case of pneumonia about a month after surgery, and this left me with lung fluid and pain that is slowly getting better but still causing issues today. It feels better for a few days and then will hurt for a day or two. Any bending, lifting, or other types of strain make it hurt. This all has been a domino effect stemming from the major surgery.

Many Blessings

While I wouldn’t wish heart cancer on anyone, I can see numerous blessings that have come from this crisis:

-I am now even closer with God as I walk with Him each day. I see His grace and mercy, most clearly through His sending Jesus to die on the cross to forgive my sins. This hard time has grown my faith and reliance on Him. In the words of Charles Spurgeon: “I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages.”

-I am more aware than ever of eternity. I have always known that eternity is coming, but it feels closer and more real now than ever. Scripture feels as alive as ever, as does singing praise to God in church with other believers, especially songs about heaven/eternity. Along with this, I am certainly telling more and more people around me about God, Jesus, the Bible, heaven, and hell. 

-I am incredibly grateful for today. Whether it be the opportunity to serve and lead others at work each day, spending time with the kids and family, or being able to take part in serving at church…I couldn’t be more grateful for every moment and every opportunity! It’s so easy to stress our way through each day, and that is no way to live. God certainly has provided food and shelter (and MUCH more), so with this I am content and thankful!

In Closing

Who knows what the future will hold, but we know The One who controls it. Prayers are still greatly appreciated. We would all do well to remember that we are not promised tomorrow and that the Scriptures are clear about what comes after our time runs out, so it is worth searching the Word to know! Nothing could be more important.