Preliminary Results

When I got home, my housekeeper was waiting on the front porch for me. She said she wanted to go back in the house with me. Once I set my things down, she said that there was a message on the answering machine, and she was sorry but she had heard it when it came in. I knew what she was talking about right away. It was Dr. M. with the preliminary results we've been waiting for. However, the results are not set in stone. I guess there is still some question. So, they are being forwarded to Cedars-Sinai for a second opinion.

But, for now, he believes that Michael's cancer is primary kidney cancer. To my knowledge that's not a cell type, and perhaps that is what they are still trying to figure out. He wants to see us next week on Thursday or Friday to discuss everything and come up with a plan. I've already put in a call to our Dr. Joey for his input. We won't make any decisions without his advice.

I called Michael with the news as soon as I could. He took it in stride like he does everything. Bless his heart.

This does not come as a surprise to us. I've been very actively doing research for the last three weeks since the initial diagnosis. I'll be frank. Kidney cancer is a killer. This is going to be a tough fight. Please continue to pray. Our prayers are well-received in Heaven, and they can make a big difference. My grandmother sent me a little note and a devotion she liked yesterday. I want to share this with you because it's about prayer:

I'm comforted by Paul's words: "The Spirit also helps in our weaknesses" (Romans 8:26). Here the apostle uses a verb that means, "to help by joining in an activity or effort." God's Spirit is joined to ours when we pray. He intercedes for us "with groanings which cannot be uttered." He is touched by our troubles. He sighs often as He prays. He cares for us deeply - more than we care for ourselves. Furthermore, He prays "according to the will of God" (v. 27). He knows the right words to say.

Therefore, I needn't worry about getting my request exactly right. I need only to hunger for God and to reach up, knowing that He cares.

David Roper