Second Corinthians chapter one, verse nine is the passage I've chosen for my journey through prostate cancer. Although Paul was speaking specifically about the persecution he and other Christians endured for the Gospel, the emphasis is on the purpose. Persecution or trials of any form solely exist to make us rely on GOD alone, and not ourselves. They happen in order for us to exhaust ourselves of any self effort in order to realize that our total dependence should be on the One Who created, sustains, and has sovereign authority over everything, including our individual lives. One of the Lord's greatest pleasures is when we surrender all to Him so that He receives all the glory He deserves from us, especially those of us who claim Him as Lord. We must avoid using religious cliches and "christianese" to flatter God and make us appear spiritual to man. Yes, it is true – God is good all the time... But, is He good only when things are going good for me??? God is good because it is Who He is, whether our world is good or not. One of the hardest truths to swallow is the fact that prosperity and adversity come from the same Source.

To be clearer, God will sometimes break us in order to use us. A vessel broken by the hands of the Potter will often provide better service to Him because of a clearer understanding and greater reverence for the Maker. Broken or not, we must fully confess and admit to ourselves the words of the Lord Jesus: "...apart from Me you can do nothing."

Visit the blog archive and read from earliest to latest to get the details in chronological order.


10.05.2007

Part Ten: The Pre-Op

It's the third week in December 2006 - a few days from surgery. It's time for the pre-op! "Pre-operation" for those unfamiliar with the abbreviated term. Now, let me remind you: I've never had to go to the hospital for any type of surgical procedure whatsoever! First, I had to take off my shirt and have the nurse stick numerous wires to my upper torso to give me an EKG. Technology is amazing in this day and age. The machine she used only took approximately a minute to check my vitals. By the grace of God, I checked out fine. I was a little concerned because I know I'm not the healthiest guy on the block. For those who are not familiar with this type of procedure, it's necessary to check your vital signs to make sure that there are no other physical complications going on inside of you. Sometimes, depending on what else may be wrong, the doctor(s) can't operate until other issues are taken care of. I had a co-worker go to the doctor earlier this year to have a hernia removed. When they did his EKG they noticed that a few valves in his heart contained major blockage and instead of hernia surgery he ended up having open-heart surgery! That's why the pre-op is the routine thing to do!


Cynthia and I asked about the anesthesiologist who was recommended as one of the best and we were able to meet with him briefly. I had heard about how most post-surgery patients have symptoms of nausea and headaches because of the anesthesia administered to them during the operation. He explained the reason why is because of the use of medicinal "narcotics" in the anesthesia which he only uses when needed. He rarely uses them and is known for providing one of the most painless experiences in the operating room and post-surgery. We requested him right on the spot and he accepted as he jotted down my name and surgery date.


Now, check this out! As we spoke with the main nurse who would be assisting the surgeon, I asked her a serious question. I asked, "What's the youngest age of men that you've seen come through this hospital to be treated for prostate cancer?" She replied, "35." I know what you're thinking...that's very young, especially when normally it is a concern for men 50 years or older! Remember, I was diagnosed at 41 (no telling how long I've had it). But, 35? Man, that's a shocker! That's why I'm spreading the word and encouraging more guys to get checked - even before the age of 40! Her response stayed on my mind for a long time. It was almost hard to believe.


As the day drew closer and as education concerning my diagnosis increased, I began to lose my fear of surgery through much prayer and with my wife by my side!
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