05/08/2014 Update

Today I went in for another CEA blood test and to hear the results of the CT scan that was done last week. The waiting and anxiety build-up is now over. The CT scan was clear and my CEA level continues to be normal (under 1.0). No evidence of disease! Praise be to the Lord!

In addition to the anxiety that comes along with these sorts of tests; this week was also stressful for other reasons. Cancer Survivor Network (CSN) is an online support forum that I have used over the past two years. I have gotten to know quite a few people through their posts and through email. It has proven to be a very useful place where people help each other with understanding and managing through the cancer battle.

I connected to one person in particular on this site. We exchanged several emails and frequently posted replies on each other’s questions and comments. We were both stage IV colon cancer and our cases and treatments were similar so we had a lot to share.

In hind-sight the connection with Joe was predictable. We were both born in 1964. We lived within 1 ½ hours from each other. We are both married with children and engaged in children-related activities. Working professional we were both determined to not let cancer treatments derail our careers. We were both Christian men. Add we were both engaged in a battle against a common enemy, with common experiences.

Joe died this past Monday.

He was a kind and gentle person. He was supportive and encouraging to me and everyone on the CSN forum. Joe was a husband, father, employer, employee, coach, and Christian man who truly loved and was loved. There is no doubt that he will be deeply missed by many. A man like Joe makes more of an impact on the people in his life than he could imagine. And I consider myself lucky to have known him.

I feel loss and sadness with Joe’s passing but I know that he is shining bright in paradise today.

Thank you Lord for today. This is truly a beautiful day on this good earth. And thank you Lord for Joe. He was a kind and gentle servant and I know he is now with you in heaven. Shower Joe’s family and friends with Love and Light. Bring them to peace. Restore their souls. This I ask in the holy name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Today the sun is shining. Warm weather has prevailed. And I can breathe easier and relax with the good news from the doctor. God is good.

Thank you all for your continued prayers and support. And know that I am praying for each of you daily.

God bless and keep you all.

Sincerely,

Philip

Please get a colonoscopy if you are 50 or over!!! It could just save your life!!!