Hard news, and a healing

Thu 07/26/07
I received the Mayo Clinic pathology report faxed to my office – not good news. Susan's tumor is a malignant, grade IV glioblastoma, not the milder grade III oligodendroglioma. The tissue has unusual characteristics more commonly seen with the milder tumor, so it looks like oligodendroglioma. Dr Scheithauer at Mayo is the global expert in brain tumor pathology, so kudos to the LB Memorial staff for getting his opinion. I confirmed the report was sent to UCLA and I forwarded it to LBMMC Neurosurgeon Barry Ceverha also.
I spoke with Dr Nghiemphu, who recommends surgery within two weeks followed by simultaneous radiation and chemotherapy for this more rare and deadly tumor. Experimental clinical trials are usually available for Glioblastoma patients; but not for Susan since she had breast cancer last year – she would need to be cancer free for 3 years. We'll consult with Drs Liau (UCLA) and Ceverha (LBMMC) to decide who will operate.
To me, this is the perfect setup for God to do something miraculous. I believe in Him and His power. Lord, have mercy.
We had a 1pm appointment in Long Beach for Susan's abdominal CT scan. The nurse had difficulty getting a good vein for the contrast solution; but the scan finished quickly.

I truly was rattled by the Mayo Clinic pathology report that revealed Susan's tumor is a grade IV glioblastoma instead of the lesser oligodendroglioma. Several weeks ago, a doctor told me glioblastoma is a death sentence. Mind you, he's one of many gifted and experienced physicians who work in clinical practice focused on known conditions, standard treatments, and probable outcomes. They know more about specific areas of God's creation than I ever will, yet God seems so far removed from their clinical realm. I've had several times where fear or despair have come over me, and I've pushed them away. A time of worship on the 405 freeway brought my focus back to the Living God, God the Healer.
On our way to church for Oasis, I spoke with Susan about the Mayo report, she with her 10-12 inch incision on her scalp, her impaired vision, her vertigo, her muddled memory, and her numb right foot. We talked about the ominous report and uncertain outcome. She believes she will not die yet – that God has work and witnessing for her to do on this earth. And she is not afraid to die. We resolved again that we will not fear, we will not despair, and we will trust God for healing. We will wait on the Lord while we pursue every medical option available.
Oasis was amazing. The Holy Spirit was in charge. Bob & Chris Olson sang over the congregation, then Mitch VanderWal read scripture and we entered into prayers of praise together. I shared our perspective with those gathered, feeling awkward that as a leader of Oasis, so much attention was drawn to my wife while there were other cancer patients in the room who were more unnoticed. Oh well, this is where God has put us, on display. I shared Philippians 2:16-18 and Daniel 3:18. We had a time of deep, emotional worship, turning the focus from ourselves to God. Vicki shared how the Spirit led her to organize the prayer vigil. Ken spoke from the heart and prayed, followed by silent prayer, and more deep worship and prayer. As the night, concluded, Vicki was impressed to pray for healing of Susan's vision. A group of people rallied around with Melanie Gunsolus obediently ministering. When Sue opened her eyes, she was looking directly at Melanie, seeing beautiful eyes instead of just "shiny glass!" And she was seeing colors, not just shades of grey! Thank you, Lord!
Melanie was confident Sue would receive healing when the Holy Spirit came upon her and she felt a "transfer" go from her to Susan, similar to what she's experienced in the past with other healing. Pastor Ken watched our niece Alyssa's face as Susan was healed and described the happiest expression he's ever seen – a mixture of joy, wonder, and amazement. It was holy ground as faith became sight. Thank you, Lord!