Dad’s Cancer Journey Category
Hearing My Father’s Voice
Posted on August 27, 2021 Leave a Comment
It’s after 2:45 in the morning. I desperately need to fall asleep since I’ve got a very long day ahead. Usually, I would’ve been snoring at least 3-4 hours ago already. Yet, when I need sleep the most it just doesn’t seem to come easy. So, I’m just praying I will fall asleep very soon. […]
Dad Gave Me His Torch
Posted on July 29, 2021 1 Comment
It has been exactly 72 days since my 72 year old dad took his last earthly breath. My last conversation with him was a little over 20 hours prior to his passing. For that moment it was just him and me in the emergency room. Dad made it very clear that he was completely ready […]
We Grieve With Hope
Posted on May 28, 2021 1 Comment
I’ve been a little more silent than most have come to expect from me. Honestly, I’ve really not had much to say or the strength to say it. We all know losing a very close loved one is never easy. Watching someone battle a terminal illness for so long is never easy. Trying to think […]
Counting The Blessings
Posted on May 24, 2021 Leave a Comment
I’m well aware that grieving the loss of my dad will take time. I know ahead are a year of firsts without him. In fact, I’m sure there will be many times throughout life where his presence will be majorly missed. However, I also know I must continue to count my blessings today and everyday. […]
It Was His Time
Posted on May 22, 2021 Leave a Comment
As most of you know my daddy left this earth for Heaven this past Tuesday, May 18th 2021. I’m writing this date as a day I will never forget this side of Heaven. There’s no doubt it was the best thing to ever happen for dad. But, a day after preaching his funeral reality is […]
Thank You All
Posted on May 22, 2021 Leave a Comment
From the bottom of my heart I want to thank anyone who has prayed or shown support for our family during this difficult season. There’s something about brokenness that unites us all. It’s never fun to grieve. However, great grief often reflects great love. To love anyone deeply is to wish they never leave your […]
Just 15 Hours Away
Posted on May 21, 2021 1 Comment
Well, it’s the night before my daddy’s funeral. With every hour that passes reality speaks loudly. My dad is no longer living in this world. He’s got a new home and eternal address. He’s in Heaven where everything is perfect and pain free. However, for now I have to get used to this earthly life […]
Some Last Memories Together
Posted on May 19, 2021 Leave a Comment
Our last fishing trip, board game, walk & talk, funeral, and the last time we held hands for now. I’m so thankful for the times we shared and the dad God gave me.
See You Later Dad
Posted on May 19, 2021 Leave a Comment
Today, we said a somewhat surprising goodbye to my dad. Even with my hospice experience I just didn’t see it coming this fast. Less than 24 hours after dad was admitted to hospice he breathed his last time this side of Heaven. Most of our very large family got to say their final goodbyes. Evidently […]
Many Raw Emotions
Posted on May 18, 2021 Leave a Comment
I’ve been by the bedside of hundreds of dying men and women. For years, I’ve felt called by God to be by their bedside. Not that I have some magic words or super powers. Somehow, God has equipped me to help others make a peaceful and hopeful eternal transition. For the last 17 months I’ve […]
The End Is Near
Posted on May 17, 2021 Leave a Comment
I’m just getting a chance to catch my breath. Today, has been one of those days I won’t soon forget. Things with dad recently have just kept getting worse and worse. Trying to keep him comfortable and safe became harder and harder for mom. Trying to even figure out what to do next was very […]
In The Valley God Is There
Posted on May 14, 2021 Leave a Comment
I know I’ve been pretty silent concerning any updates on my dad. That’s because sometimes you just don’t know exactly where things are headed. Dad continues to be very fatigue and not feeling like doing much of anything. Honestly, we’ve barely had one full conversation the last two weeks. I’m lucky if we exchange a […]
Dad Is Just Wiped Out
Posted on May 8, 2021 Leave a Comment
Written May 5th, 2021 Dad has been spending most of his recent days in the bed. It has been obvious he can barely hold his head up most of the time. Mom has been doing an excellent job of trying to keep him comfortable morning, day and night. But, time has revealed that things haven’t […]
In A Waiting Chamber
Posted on May 8, 2021 Leave a Comment
Yesterday, my dad received a blood transfusion. That blood definitely perked him up and strengthened him some. Unfortunately, he is still very weak. His appetite has been way off for weeks and that continues to be the case. Dad has lost a bunch of weight over the last few months. Tonight, he has been suffering […]
God Take This Pain
Posted on May 4, 2021 Leave a Comment
Anyone who has watched someone suffer knows it’s just not easy. Anyone who has lived in nonstop pain knows it can feel unbearable. These first two sentences would definitely describe my mom and dad in that order. Things don’t feel very hopeful in their house right now. Dad’s pain has just been keeping him down […]
My Little Faith Walker
Posted on May 3, 2021 Leave a Comment
My youngest son Asher has one of the biggest hearts I’ve ever known. He cares so deeply about people and animals. Just the thought of someone’s pain brings him to his knees. He always prays the most heartfelt prayers. That makes sense because he always says “daddy they come from the heart.” Tonight he prayed […]
Drastic Decline In Platelets
Posted on April 28, 2021 Leave a Comment
You can look at dad’s numbers and see how drastically his blood platelet levels have dropped over time. The last few months of chemotherapy have really been tough on his body. There are so many different kinds of chemotherapy for Multiple Myeloma Cancer. However, this particular one is obviously not agreeing with dad’s system. I’m […]
Another Record Low
Posted on April 28, 2021 Leave a Comment
Well, dad got up this morning with his pain seemingly more bearable than usual. So, him and mom headed to Charleston Oncology for his appointment. From everything mom could see they figured he would definitely be able to get this week’s chemotherapy. That was if his blood platelet level was okay. It usually is after […]
Keep Praying My Friends
Posted on April 23, 2021 Leave a Comment
Anytime you’re in the fight of your life everyday is a blessing. But, lately dad and mom have been carrying a very heavy burden. Yesterday was another tough pill to swallow. Dad went to get his weekly chemotherapy only to discover his body couldn’t handle it. His blood platelet level was the lowest ever at […]
Embrace Each Season
Posted on April 17, 2021 Leave a Comment
Dad went back to the radiologist today. After looking at the pet scan they marked him all up in preparation for more radiation. He will have 3 different areas treated all at once on his hips and back. Hopefully, he will experience some much needed relief in the weeks to come. Concerning his chemotherapy and […]
What A Long Emotional Day
Posted on April 14, 2021 Leave a Comment
First of all, I want say that my parents are two of the most wonderful people I know. I’m proud of their Godly example and thankful to be called their son. They say that adversity introduces a man to himself. Well, if that’s the case, mom and dad have demonstrated they are far beyond average. […]
Only God Knows
Posted on April 14, 2021 Leave a Comment
Tomorrow my dad has a very big appointment with his cancer doctor. He just finished another week of radiation. It remains to be seen if dad will get tomorrow’s weekly scheduled chemotherapy infusion. That depends on his blood work. His pain has been very up and down the last several days. Most of the time […]
God You Take Over
Posted on April 11, 2021 Leave a Comment
Yesterday and today especially my dad has really been dealing with lots of pain. Seems like a fire that is never quite put out. When it’s bad it’s really bad. His shoulders, hips, back, legs and obviously many places throughout his body have been devastated by his cancer. Every day is a different battle, but […]
Pastor To Pastor
Posted on April 9, 2021 Leave a Comment
Had a really good visit with my parents tonight. Dad and I were talking earlier tonight about the ministry. How very challenging and rewarding it can be. How he has seen me have to deal with many of the challenges he once faced in his 48 years as a pastor. We both agreed that pastoring […]
Dad’s Prayers Were Answered
Posted on April 5, 2021 Leave a Comment
It’s just one hour after resurrection Sunday. I’ve had a very long day. After preaching two Easter services we had to be at two different family gatherings. After a 14 hour day my body is just struggling to settle down. Easter was a God made day in many ways. First, I got 7 1/2 hours […]
Daddy Prayed For Me
Posted on April 4, 2021 Leave a Comment
Well, after literally being up all last night. I’m hoping my nighttime meds will have me fast asleep soon. Tomorrow is not just any Sunday for me. It’s world changing resurrection Sunday. I really want to be at my very, very best. However, I’m not actually feeling my best right now. My voice has been […]
Something To Smile About
Posted on April 1, 2021 Leave a Comment
Oh what a joy it was to finally talk with my dad on the phone earlier. It’s been at least a week since he could even dialogue at all with me. His pain has just been blinding and disrupting his life so much. I just kept praying that we could hopefully see him smile again. […]
Living On Prayer
Posted on March 31, 2021 Leave a Comment
Well, dad’s doctor’s appointment went as well as we could expect. His blood platelet level has doubled. Therefore, he will receive his weekly chemo infusion tomorrow. Hopefully his body can handle more treatment. Based on his present frailty that will only happen through prayer. Now, dad’s greatest felt pain was definitely addressed. He will have […]
Where Is The Easy Button?
Posted on March 30, 2021 Leave a Comment
Dad’s unpredictable pain continues to make his life at best feel bearable. He and mom really don’t know their days from their nights anymore. Mom has to practically help dad up 24/7 for him to safely get up anytime. Dad’s left shoulder is basically useless and causing him insane pain. A walker is used at […]
Dad’s Struggles Continue
Posted on March 26, 2021 Leave a Comment
Well, it’s been awhile since I’ve updated you about dad. One, I’ve been totally off social media for the past week. Two, there just really hasn’t been a whole to say until recently. For the past few weeks dad has continued to rapidly lose weight even with a good appetite. I would love to blame […]
Please Keep Praying
Posted on February 17, 2021 Leave a Comment
I know so many people are struggling in this season one way or another. Sadly, most of us don’t feel like we can physically support one another the same due to social distancing. But, no amount of distance can stop our prayers for one another. My parents still need those prayers to keep coming. This […]
Update On My Dad 2/4/21
Posted on February 5, 2021 1 Comment
So, the last week especially has been really tough for my dad and mom. It all started when dad spiked nearly a 103 degree fever 8 days ago. Anything like that is extremely scary when the doctor had just informed him that his immune system has hit rock bottom. By the grace of God we […]
It Was Different But
Posted on December 24, 2020 Leave a Comment
Praise God we all able to get together for Christmas with mom and dad. We did so today because the weather allowed us to gather safely outside. It was different, but much like this past Thanksgiving. It was just a blessing to still have dad with us. Due to dad’s necessary pain meds he was […]
Keep Praying For Dad
Posted on December 23, 2020 Leave a Comment
In so many ways this Christmas will be different and full of emotions. It remains to be seen if our entire family will gather together at all. Dad has certainly had his share of setbacks lately. He spent hours at the emergency room this past Saturday due to extreme pain in his eye. He was […]
God Whatever You Want
Posted on December 20, 2020 Leave a Comment
My dad was a pastor for 48 years. He can’t remember any church being closed more than a few times period. I’ve been in the ministry 27 years and I can only remember the church being closed a couple times ever. Yet, here I am pastoring a church that has not met “inside” for corporate […]
Even In The Bad Times
Posted on December 15, 2020 Leave a Comment
I’ve been off social for nearly one month. I’ve not preached on a Sunday in over 3 weeks. For many reasons I had to step back from the world as I once knew it. I desperately needed to catch my breath. I had to get my own self healthier physically, emotionally, and spiritually. That is […]
Taking An Extended Break
Posted on November 30, 2020 Leave a Comment
I’ve not been on social media in quite awhile. I don’t plan on being on here for several more weeks. Last Sunday night I had another major neurological breakdown. I’ve not had one that severe in at least 3 years. My body is still recovering from feeling so fried inside. Of course, initially it brought […]
When The Pain Runs Deep
Posted on November 19, 2020 Leave a Comment
Toxins have been building up inside of me for weeks. Last week was very tough. This week has been tolerable, but still somewhere miserable. My nerve pain is consuming my body. My entire face is flooded with painful nerve sensations. I feel so irritable most of the time due to my ramped up pain. The […]
I’m Really Upset, But
Posted on November 17, 2020 1 Comment
Well, my dad had a very big doctor’s appointment today. We were optimistic that it would finally confirm the reason for 5 months of extreme pain in his head. His recent surgical biopsy was the only way to verify that he was battling temporal arthritis. Unfortunately, the biopsy showed that dad does not have this […]
The Prayers Are Working
Posted on November 16, 2020 Leave a Comment
Dad had a much better day on Sunday. His morning started out a little rough. But, Dad’s pain is back to being under control. He really does look day and night different when he’s not enduring breathtaking pain. I enjoyed a great visit with dad and mom right after Sunday worship. As for me, my […]
Dad Turned 72 But
Posted on November 15, 2020 Leave a Comment
Unfortunately, my dad didn’t end up having a great 72nd birthday. That is at least from a pain management standpoint. However, I’m so glad he is still here. I can tell his mind and body are flat wore out from his cancer battle. He’s definitely a fighter, but sometimes the fight is just way bigger […]
Thank You Jesus
Posted on November 6, 2020 Leave a Comment
Now, I may still be sore and limited in certain movement. But, there’s no doubt things are trending in the right direction. This heating pad on my back right now feels like Jesus with skin. The medical massage I got earlier was Heaven sent at Total Wellness. Then, I went back for another neck and […]
While I Was Sleeping
Posted on November 6, 2020 Leave a Comment
Last night I had a full night of sleep for the first time in many days. By that I mean uninterrupted. I didn’t wake up tossing and turning. I wasn’t feel one ounce of pain while I was actually sleeping and that’s a God thing. Today, I woke up just feeling very sore and cautious […]
Finding Peace In Chaos
Posted on November 6, 2020 Leave a Comment
Well, let me start this out with some good news. Today, dad safely endured being put under anesthesia. Then, his doctor removed surgically a biopsy from his temple. It will be at least early next week before he hears any results. At the very least we figure he is battling temporal arthritis among other things. […]
When The Pain Is Blinding
Posted on November 5, 2020 Leave a Comment
My health is presently not good at all. You name it and it hurts on my body. I’m trying my best to weather this storm and see beyond this misery. I know this isn’t my first rodeo with pain. Still it makes everything harder when I’m consumed with such misery. Nights have been the worst. […]
Pray For My Parents
Posted on September 2, 2020 Leave a Comment
My dad and I just finished one of our daily night time talks. As usual it was full of many different emotions. We both can see God’s grace, recognize the pain and still pray in full faith. We both know God always has a plan. We just don’t always know how that plan will look […]
The Best Father’s Day Ever
Posted on June 27, 2020 Leave a Comment
There’s never been a Father’s Day I’ve not been grateful for my dad. However, this year is different than all the rest. Everything changed after our long ride to the hospital that December night. I remember thinking on the way you certainly looked very sick. Then, I was blown away hours later to hear that […]
49 Years Of Saying I Do
Posted on June 11, 2020 Leave a Comment
Forty nine years ago two special people said “I do” to each other. This was no light hearted ceremony of exchanged vows. They both promised a lifetime of love to one another. Their love has proven true for better or worse. Their love still remains in sickness and in health. They started out just a […]
Plenty Of Reasons To Pray
Posted on March 14, 2020 Leave a Comment
This week has seemed in many respects like a bad dream. Far beyond my own body surprising me with much unwanted pain. I feel like the entire world around me is in panic mode. Who knows how many more places will be shutdown soon as the world stares at the threat of this Coronavirus. Even […]
A Total Setup By God
Posted on February 14, 2020 Leave a Comment
It’s been over 9 hours since I heard the news. Since God showed up and showed out on my dad’s behalf. I’m still wondering when I’m gonna wake up from this dream. No matter when I think of what God has done. I just keep shaking my head. I’ve never felt more awe struck and […]
I’ve Seen Enough To Pray More
Posted on February 13, 2020 Leave a Comment
I’ve decided I must write this while I’m at my highest point of confident faith. I’ve seen a lot the past 5 years alone. I’ve seen God resurrect a little boy who was sure to leave this earth. I’ve seen God restore my health, life and ministry. Now, I’ve seen God take the prayers of […]
I CANNOT BELIEVE IT !!!
Posted on February 13, 2020 Leave a Comment
I just got a phone call from my mom. She was very hard to understand due to her intense crying. My heart dropped as the only words I could understand at first were “Your Daddy.” As her voice got clearer I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Could this really be true! They had just […]
My Daddy Made It
Posted on February 9, 2020 Leave a Comment
Today marked exactly 50 days since we discovered my dad is fighting cancer. I would say that was the exact day my entire life perspective drastically changed. So often we think we’ve got forever on this earth. Then something exposes our humanity and the brevity of life. All things considered dad is doing the best […]
Some Good News About Dad
Posted on February 6, 2020 Leave a Comment
Haven’t updated you guys lately concerning my dad. His pain and nausea have been much more under control in recent days. His doctor gave him a two week break from his chemo injections. Mainly so his body could get some much needed rest. However, he will get another infusion tomorrow. Overall, I can sense my […]
Learning From A Boy
Posted on February 4, 2020 Leave a Comment
Today, I had the joy of visiting with my dad. He was much more comfortable than many past visits. They decided a week ago that his body needed some rest from his chemotherapy injections. However, the reality of his condition is beginning to take it’s toll on him and mom. The past six weeks have […]
God Turned Things Around
Posted on January 27, 2020 Leave a Comment
This long day has been full of moments worth celebrating. These moments involve my church, my dad and my health. I believe all three are trending in a much healthier direction. Let me briefly explain myself. One, it was a breath of fresh air to attend the church I pastor. I walked through the doors […]
Renewed Strength Found
Posted on January 26, 2020 Leave a Comment
We were blessed to go out to eat with my parents tonight. It was so good to see dad out of the house. Even better it was great to see dad looking somewhat comfortable. After some new pain meds he was able to rest a few hours. That rest gave him just the lift he […]
So Much On My Mind
Posted on January 25, 2020 Leave a Comment
Right now, I feel I could write a book. Not about the past, but just expressing my present feelings. My heart and body have really been hurting. My wife said something that was pretty profound. She said “you know the two are connected.” Yes, I know that sounds so silly. However, there’s no denying my […]
Keep Praying For My Dad
Posted on January 23, 2020 Leave a Comment
My dad is once again in a whole lot of discomfort. I hate to see him or hear him crying. However, that’s what makes me know the pain is so great. We are seeking to trust the Lord with every step. We’re praying for God to bring healing to his body. His kidneys are still […]
Keep Them Coming Please
Posted on January 21, 2020 1 Comment
It’s been a 31 day roller coaster ride. Most days we’ve had more questions than answers. Of course, you hope and pray for divine intervention. Even still, each day brings many doubts. I could tell in dad’s eyes he knew his cancer was aggressive. All he needed to do was go by the chaos abounding […]
Gotta Give You Up
Posted on January 19, 2020 Leave a Comment
Dad it’s becoming a normal routine. I wake up several times throughout each night with you heavy on my mind. Of course, I’m concerned about all that is going on with you. I go to bed with you heavy on my mind. I wake up each day with you heavy on my mind. Deep down […]
Pray About Everything
Posted on January 16, 2020 Leave a Comment
Well, my dad looked a lot better tonight. At least, compared to the past several weeks. The circles under his eyes give away his sleepless nights. His constant agitation gives away his discomfort. But, sometimes things can only get better. Overall, I see increased strength and his appetite has improved. Probably the biggest reason for […]
Learning To Fight Differently
Posted on January 13, 2020 Leave a Comment
Dad preached again this Sunday. Even though he could have collapsed any moment. I can totally relate to the calling he feels within him. I’ve had countless Sundays I had no business getting out of my bed. Still God put a fire in my bones compelling me to share His words of hope with others. […]
Always Hope In Christ
Posted on January 3, 2020 Leave a Comment
Tomorrow will be 2 weeks since my dad discovered he has cancer. Even still today was a good day. His kidneys have improved a little. His pain has become a little more manageable. The eye of the tiger is back in his eyes. Regardless of this disease’s progression. His doctor really feels confident in their […]
Sad But Glad Christmas
Posted on December 26, 2019 Leave a Comment
Well, it’s been a very blurry past five days. The blurriness began after finding out my dad is battling some very serious health issues. Since then our family has just been walking through this valley together. My dad is still in the hospital and only time tell when he gets to go home. Anyone knows […]
