Update

We have now completed the first week (Tues-Friday) of the chemo and radiation therapy. I am most thankful to report that we have had a huge prayer answered. Jack has shown no signs of nausea with either treatment. He did not even take his anti-nausea pill on Friday or Saturday. He takes his chemo everyday (7 days/week) and radiation on Monday-Friday.

The Dr. predicted that the first week or two that Jack’s symptoms would likely get worse due to the swelling in the brain from the radiation. I would say that his walk has become more difficult the last couple of days. He actually walked on a non-paved path today and tripped and fell. He got some scratches and called Courtenay to come get him. This event is another first. Jack is so determined mentally but has not adjusted to his new body that doesn’t work so well. He does continue to be in good spirits but seems quieter than usual. Most of you know that Jack only speaks when he has something important to say. You can imagine how “quiet” must be! Thankfully, he still has no pain. I pray that he will not.

Jonathan arrived safely this morning to spend the weekend with us. A friend of mine who is in real estate picked us up and showed us several properties to buy. There are some very hopeful prospects that are close to Boston and are reasonably priced. Please pray that housing and jobs would be easy for Jonathan and Megan. Jonathan has had some good job opportunities already. I am sure Megan will also when she begins to look. They are busily packing, selling what they do not want to bring with them and trying to mentally make this transition.

Please pray that Megan will be blessed with peace as she experiences the pain of leaving all that she has ever known. I made this kind of transition in 1969. It is not easy. I must admit that my move to New England under the love and care of Jack gave me an opportunity to explore, develop, and mature in ways that I would never imagined if I had never left the South. The Lord certainly provides in so many ways even when we are unaware. It brings to mind the verse from Psalm 117:2 “For His merciful kindness is great toward us; and the truth of the Lord endures forever. Praise you the Lord.”

Jack prayed this evening before dinner that the Lord would prepare our hearts and minds for whatever that He has in store for us. He also prayed that God’s grace would be sufficient for these things as He has promised and that we would experience the peace that passes all understanding.

This experience has its joys, pain, and amazing love. We feel so embraced by the love and care and compassion shown to us by so many. I feel that I will never be able to say thank you enough for the calls, emails, gifts, flowers, cards, meals (especially from Wings at Park St.), genuine care, and legions of prayers being said for us. Yesterday, we received a beautiful card from a Bible study at Cape Cod. We did not know a single person that signed that card. We would like to embrace each one of you. The majesty of this outpouring of the kindness and love is bringing us much joy and awe. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. May the Lord bless each of you abundantly.

Carolyn