Thursday

February 26, 2026

    Anniversary day. One year ago, I had my surgery to remove the cancer from my backside. I'm meeting with Dr. Tran next week, but she called me today to talk about the CT and PET scan (more on that in a minute). 

    My last post shared that Cathy and I were going to the Marriage Event at our church. Over 250 couples came and enjoyed a great dinner, a couple of fun games, and a fantastic message from Pastor Bobby on Malachi 2:14, "The Wife of your Youth." Saturday, we went to Las Brisas in Laguna Beach for Valentine's lunch. Not only is Las Brisas where we had our first date, but we also had our engagement date, and our first lunch as husband and wife there. It all started 21 years ago on March 6th. 

    I had 5 different doctor's appointments and/or procedures the past two weeks. It started with a blood test for my hematologist checking on my iron levels. It's better than last time so we are going to monitor and do it again in 3 months. I saw the radiation oncologist the next day and he is very happy with the way the area looks and has responded to the treatment and gave me the thumbs up for a follow-up in 6 months. That week finished with a PET scan. Because a dye is involved, they want to put the IV into my arms. Problem, I have very deep and hidden veins so once again, they had to use an ultrasound to find a usable vein. The dye experience is always interesting.  You don't feel anything at first and then there is a warm sensation through various parts of the body. The PET scan showed no signs of the cancer metastasizing anywhere else. 

Jeremiah 30:17a... For I will restore health to you, and your wounds I will heal, declares the LORD

    This week started with a CT scan. That also came back with no evidence of cancer anywhere. The two scans did show that I have a kidney stone so I'm working on that with my urologist. One positive was that the PET scan and CT scan showed my urologist everything he needed to know, so I was able to cancel a blood test, CT urogram, and follow-up appointment from the calendar.

    I continue to appreciate everyone's prayers.  They definitely have made a difference, not just for me but for our other friends who have gone through the cancer journey this year. Both of the ladies in out fellowship group are also cancer free at this time, and we are all doing well. 

Colossians 4:2... Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 

    I enjoyed my first senior citizen event this week. During the month of February, San Diego Wild Animal Safari Park offered free admission to anyone over 65. Cathy and I took our sister-in-law Diane and Cathy's mother. We had a great time, and it was a chance to prove that I'm doing very well. There was too much walking for Cathy's mom. We rented a wheelchair and I pushed her all around the park, up and down. Walking those 5 miles a day came in handy. 

    Still to come, follow-ups with the surgical oncologist, my GI, and my ENT. I also have the second step in a tooth implant in two weeks (putting the post in). After that, I will be done with year check-ups and regular appointments and I'll get to enjoy a month with no doctors. 

Proverbs 3:5-6... Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.  In all your way acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. 

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