Jer: 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares The Lord, "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope."

Seems odd that the last time I updated this site, Greg was heading into treatment. Following is some background and the most current information on Greg's health.

The first diagnosis of this rare spinal cancer (ependymoma) for Greg was when he was 12 years old. At that time he had surgery and radiation.

At the age of 40 there was a recurrence. That was 10 years ago. Yes, he is 50! At that time it was in a more aggressive state. During the last 10 years, prayer, surgeries, different chemos, and proton radiation have held it at a slower growth progression.

His most recent MRI showed there is a new tumor in the bone on his L3 vertebra and a couple of other ‘areas of concerns’ higher up on his spine.

This biopsy of the bone did prove that this is the same type of cancer, ependymoma, which attacks the central nervous system. Previously these tumors were growing in the spinal canal (the ependyma and spinal fluid) and not attached or metastasized to the bone.

This present situation creates a challenge. Up to this point the surgeon has felt he has performed all the surgeries he can, short of cutting the tumor out along with cutting the spinal cord and causing more paralysis. The tumors have not responded with great benefits (vs. side effects) to the many different chemos that have been used over the past several years (as far as shrinking them). Proton radiation is a one time treatment to a particular area. Greg has had it in two different areas.

Soooo, the “Tumor Board” will discuss his case at their next meeting, which will be tomorrow, Friday (yes there is actually a board of “brainy” doctors and genius people that get together and talk about unusual tumors). The doctor that took on Greg's case in Bloomington Indiana at MPRI, Midwest Proton Radiation Therapy will be reviewing this new info also. I would much rather discuss discipling and evangelism, cookies and snacks or even coffee prep for 1,000 people wouldn’t you? Seriously, we are thankful there are such people that have the skills and gifts to do this research.

They would like to meet again with Greg to discuss the results of that conversation in the next week or two. Right now, we really don’t know any treatment plan, or if the plan will be a “watch and wait” to see how this will grow. All of this information, along with all the players involved, need to weigh in. The risks, side effects, options and long term quality of life each play a part in the decision going forward.

Currently, Greg is working full time. As I write this he is flying home from a business trip to New Jersey. He is not having symptoms like he has had in the past.

Our kids, Tyler 19, A.K. (Kyle) 20 and Kindra 22, have walked closely with us this entire journey and are a constant reminder of God's goodness to us. The boys help us a great deal around the house and spur us on daily. After graduation, Kindra started a full time job as a youth counselor and now lives in Quincy Illinois. Her encouragement from our long talks is treasured. We talk alot!

Your prayers, support and reminders of His promises are greatly appreciated and felt. Please pray for wisdom of all involved and patience in the waiting.

We are resting in His promises- John 16:33 "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world".

There is great peace in knowing The Overcomer of the World!