DGW Health News

No News = More Good News for Today

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Mon, 24 May 2010 04:53:00 +0000

Friends, it has been weeks since I have updated you on Dad's health and this great miracle of sustained life he and Sandy are enjoying together. Those of you who keep up with Encourager know that Dad's health is stable and he has undergone some recent tests. Despite the tests showing that the cancer still exists and that DG needs will require more testing soon, DG and Sandy have gone on a 3 week trip back to Missouri and all parts in between to see family, friends and many of you! Part of the trip was a surprise visit to see my grandfather. The report from DG and Sandy is that the reunion with Grandpa Wood was sweet. DG and Sandy continue to enjoy the company of siblings, nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles, other family, and many friends. Here's a photo from one of today's visits.

Friends, please continue to pray for DG and Sandy. In about 10 days they return to Arizona for some more tests and the likelihood of the presence of more carcinoid tumors. But for now, please join us in continued thanksgiving for life and a life abundant.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer. Our hope for you is unshaken, for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort. - 2 Corinthians 1:3-7

A Picture May Be Worth 1000 Words

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 06:12:00 +0000

But a video of DG having cell phone issues while PREACHING a funeral is priceless. If you were wondering how DG is really doing, here's some footage. If you get this by email, go to a browser and type in dgwhealthnews.blogspot.com so you can watch the video.

Enjoy!

Happy 64th Birthday Dennis!

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 16:55:00 +0000

Funny how three words that we say so often to so many can mean something so different this year.

Dennis was born in 1946 in the Ozarks of Missouri. His history is storied. He's well traveled, well spoken and today, he's off all antibiotics and feeling quite well.

DG will tell you the best two decisions he has ever made were meeting Jesus in a revival meeting at age 9 and marrying Sandy. He has served the Lord with a genuine faith and an authentic care for God's people for more than four decades. In recent years he has suffered these carcinoid tumors with endurance and as a living testimony of what God can do in and through a diseased body. DG has had 63 other birthdays but few have been as special as today.

With the bout of meningitis behind him, DG is back in action and feeling remarkably well. He spent yesterday celebrating with the grandsons (there was falling in the pool antics and other typical shenanigans at Grammie and Tapaw's house) and then spent the evening with all of us over for dinner.

Today, Saturday March 20, DG has the unique honor to be back preaching today. He's preaching a funeral of a friend. The family has long been part of Church on Mill.

Please pray for Dennis has he cares for this family and their loss. Pray for DG's strength physically and emotionally. His own journey and the ups and downs of recent months will obviously be a big part of how God uses DG to care for this family and the church family. Thank you all for your continued prayer and concern for DG. I'm sure he would love to hear from you and he promised me last night, he's just starting back at reading and writing email.

Click here to send birthday wishes to DG!

Happy Birthday Dad! We love you and are so thankful to God as we celebrate with you this year.

DG Continues to Improve and Good News for Sandy

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 04:53:00 +0000

DG is now two weeks past the meningitis episode and has a week under his belt being home from the hospital. I had a good long telephone conversation with him yesterday. He was lucid. He does not remember a few days of his visit to the hospital. But this week, his thoughts are back in order and yesterday, he was ready to get out the house and accompany Sandy... to the doctor!

It's been a funny two weeks. From being nearly comatose with fever and riddled with meningitis bacteria only two weeks ago, DG had his picc line removed today and is now off the powerful meningitis antibiotics. He is back down to only one tube in his abdomen and is experiencing little pain. He's weak from another battle with infection, but his spirits are good and he's wanting to get some strength back. Praise the Lord!

Sandy also had a cyst aspirated this week and was reassured that it was indeed fluid filled and benign. As she lay on the procedure table, she heard a familiar voice. Dennis' IR (the interventionist radiologist that had performed many of his procedures and tube insertions) stepped to the table and performed Sandy's aspiration procedure. He was so relieved to tell her that the problem was little more than fluid and not to worry about cancer. Dr. D. said "the Woods can sure use some good news." I think he is right and with a good report, Sandy was greatly relieved too. Her procedure was quick and painless and she was home by the afternoon. Then, yesterday, she also went to the doctor about last year's episode with bladder cancer. She received a good report that the questionable spots had not returned. Again, praise the Lord!

I think now, we can all join DG and Sandy and ask God for a respite and some months of "normal". It would be good to go for a stretch without hospitals, procedures or antibiotics.

DG is by no means back to full health and he pretty week. He has lost more weight and he needs to continue to gain strength. Along with renewed strength, please also pray that DG can be strong enough to think scheduling a visit back to Missouri. My grandfather turns 84 in a couple of months and it has been almost two years (and many bumps and loops on this roller coaster ride) since DG has seen his Dad. They talk everyday by telephone, but I am aware that of all the things Dad and I have talked about lately, seeing Grandpa is on his mind and his heart. Please join us and pray for DG's strength to return and that there will be an opportunity for DG and Sandy to trek back to the Show Me State.

Friends, I am so glad to report DG's continued recovery (again). Your prayers are coveted and I so appreciate the words of encouragement that we received from so many of you. I'm reminded of the verse in Hebrews, that great "cloud of witnesses" spurring each of us on to enduring and finishing the race. DG, Sandy and the Wood family are so fortunate to have so many encouraging us on in the faith. And together, as we look to Jesus and what he did for each of us on the cross, I pray for each of you and that same endurance and encouragement.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. - Hebrews 12:1-3

DG Home from Hospital

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 16:54:00 +0000

A quick update to let you know DG has returned home from the hospital. He's on some IV antibiotics (I'm sensing a theme here) for the next two weeks, but he is home. He and Sandy are thankful for your prayers and concern. Pray the infection continues to respond and that the severe side effects of this very strong antibiotic would be few.

More later and thank you so much for your prayers!

Quick Post on DG's Progress

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 17:16:00 +0000

Just a quick update and as always a thank you for your prayers this week. It's Friday morning and I spent a bit of time yesterday evening with DG in the ICU. He was sleeping after many hours of testing and he was exhausted. I'm not sure if he was having an MRI or wrestling with the MRi tech, but he was tired.

Mom and I got kicked out about 7:00 p.m. for the ICU shift change and he talked with us for a few minutes. He remembered nothing of Wednesday and all was a fever-induced haze. But, last night he was talkative for a few minutes, he called my grandpa in Missouri on the telephone and squeezed my hand very hard when I dared ask him about his strength. Obviously his head was hurting quite a bit and they planned on some good pain meds to keep the pressure at bay during the night.

This morning, Mom got down there and a few minutes ago sent me this simple text message: Dad is getting into a chair to eat and they may move him to a regular room later today.

Remember, 48 hours ago a doctor looked at Mom and asked, "Are you sure you want to treat this aggressively?" And today, he's sitting up, eating and moving out of the ICU. God is a good God that hears our prayers. I said it yesterday and I'll say it again, Cancer may ultimately be the end of DG, but meningitis won't!

If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. - John 15:7

God Isn't Finished with DG Yet...

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:53:00 +0000

I should not be amazed by what God can do in 24 hours. How many times have I come to you almost dumbfounded to report another of DG's recoveries from grave and dark conditions.

Friends, Sandy got a call this morning at 7:50... It was Dad saying "I know my name today." He had already been visited by the doctor that saw him yesterday and she was astonished at his turn around. She said to him, "Dennis, they only call me to the ER in the most dire of cases." She went on to tell DG that she is totally amazed by his recovery. It is an total turn around. From DG's 104 fever, blown pupils and non-responsiveness yesterday morning to DG's call to Mom this morning, the doc was amazed, we are amazed and we are so thankful. DG's head hurts and he doesn't remember much of anything yesterday. But what a total change.

Thanks be to God and thank all of you dear, special folks. Some of you have prayed and you don't even know us.

Please, keep praying. DG isn't out of the woods yet. He will likely be in the hospital for a bit. They need to make sure his brain is rid of all the infection as well as his other parts. Infection is often sneaky, it hides and long outlasts its welcome in our bodies.

We all know that one day, cancer will likely overtake Dad, but today, it doesn't seem like meningitis will.

Two scriptures were incredibly helpful to me yesterday. A dear friend of my sister forwarded our request to many and reminded me that when followers of Christ agree and pray in His name, God hears us. And another friend reminded me that in Matthew 7, Jesus simply reminds us...

Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.

Thank you all for standing in the gap and asking on Sandy and DG's behalf.

A Little More Prayer

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 21:00:00 +0000

DG is not good. He has bacterial spinal meningitis and likely another sepsis infection in his blood. They continue to do tests and grow cultres, and they moved him to the ICU. Keep DG, Sandy and all our family in your prayers today. In your coming and your going, please lift us up to our Father in heaven. Thanks.

A Little Prayer Today for DG and Sandy

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:11:00 +0000

It's been several weeks since we've had reason to update you on DG's health and care. For the most part, he's been bumping along swimmingly and has had some issues here and there with the tubes in his liver. I know many of you keep up with his Encourager newsletter and have read about those challenges as well as Mom's recent fall and rib bruising.

This morning, DG had a terrible headache and scheduled an doctor's appointment. He then became disoriented and had some trouble getting out of bed. So, Sandy called 911 and he's in the ER now. Recent tests have showed decent liver function and some minor infection due to the tube readjustments. But, today is something slightly different.

We covet your prayers and are so thankful for your continued prayer support, even in my blog-silence. Our God is awesome and so gracious. Join me in lifting up DG and Sandy today.

My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to slip or to be moved; He Who keeps you will not slumber. - Psalms 121

DG Preaches Today

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 21:06:00 +0000

My words won't do much to add to what DG said today. You need to listen and the link is below. Thanks for your continued support and prayers.

http://www.churchonmill.com/sermons/

Roger and all of us

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. - I Thessalonians 5:18

Happy Thanksgiving (No One Other than the Turkey Was Hurt in the Writing of this Entry)

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 03:54:00 +0000

Happy Thanksgiving to you all. We have much to be thankful for this year. One gift we all are enjoying is Dennis at the holidays - the gift that keeps on giving. Six months ago, none of us was quite sure about what the holiday season would bring this year.
Well, this year brought the joy of DG standing in the kitchen, electric carving knife in hand (watch out for the cord, DG), taking chunk after hunk out of the bird.

Moments into the carve, DG turned to Sandy and shed a tear or two, tears of joy for his delivery from an incredibly challenging 2009. (see photo #2) (or maybe he was just excited the turkey wasn't too dry).

That's the kind of God we serve - we don't expect his ways and we certainly do not deserve his great mercy and grace. Moments of anxiety and sorrow have birthed the enjoyment of simple, perfect gifts from above. It is for this, the steadfastness of God's sovereignty where we are truly blessed and changed. We have so many of our own ideas about what's fair and right, what we deserve, and how we try to control our own plan.

But God laughs and knows so much better. His plans win out and his perfect knowledge and his Spirit's place in guiding and directing every day us are so much better than what our feeble and foolish minds can conjure. Conventional wisdom and the plans of men only several short weeks ago didn't have DG going to little league games, speaking at Grace Community Church last Sunday, meeting his peeps at the Starbucks or carving the Thanksgiving bird. The writer of the proverbs knew God's sovereignty all too well - The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. (Proverbs 16:9, ESV).

DG's health is in quite a miraculous state this November 2009 and it cannot be compared to July. Our joy and thankfulness for his delivery from those dark and trying days continue to be enjoyed despite the realities of his overall liver health and prognosis. DG's Liver enzyme counts are on the rise and moving in the wrong direction. DG did have some tubes removed this week, but the catheter will likely remain for months. Some days are marked by fatigue and DG's energies fail quickly. And through all that, DG is thankful for life, time with Sandy, another holiday season, more turkey carving and sitting by the fire pit with his grandsons.

I was reluctant to write this entry today. I saved it until pretty late because I was selfishly putting my foot down hard and refusing to acknowledge how precious each day is. I've argued with God over the last few days about my rights, my schedule, and my plans. I think more than once I actually prayed, "But God, you don't understand how busy and important I am."

But now as I finish today and prepare for a midnight mall run (to buy things I don't need at prices I can ill afford), God has once again checked my steps and safely guided mine back in line with His plan. The story of Joseph is a great picture of God's sovereignty and the frailty and folly of our own plans. As Joseph reunites with his brothers at the end of the story, I am encouraged by this incredible illustration of God's sovereignty and, like Joseph's brothers, I fall to my knees in awe and thankfulness...

So Joseph said to his brothers, “Come near to me, please.” And they came near. And he said, “I am your brother, Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life.

Happy thanksgiving. I am thankful to you all for your continued prayers and love for me, for my family and for DG and Sandy.

Rejoice and Again I Say Rejoice!

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 18:44:00 +0000

Friends, prayer warriors, family and interested parties,

It is with GREAT joy that I report that DG has been taken off ALL ANTIBIOTIC MEDICATIONS, intravenous or otherwise. In a great report from the infectious disease doctor (yes, the same doctor that wanted to call hospice just about 2 months ago), DG no longer has infection, he no longer requires those meds, the infection filled tumor is shrunk again, and they want to remove his TAC line!

DG called me this morning and with tears of joy was so thrilled to report this news. From septic shock, to the ICU and back again, from weeks of heavy medication to late hours of Nurse Sandy running DG on the meds, we can only give credit to God for hearing our prayers and delivering DG through this summer of challenges.

The plastic tubes remain, the catheter still remains and the cancer will continue to be a problem into the future. But this step of recovery is HUGE! Thank you for your prayers, your encouragement, your visits and your endurance to run along side DG and Sandy these many months. You are blessing to them and to me.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:4-8

Look Who's Back Behind the Wheel

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 02:11:00 +0000

I am out of town this week on a family vacation and I sent Dennis a text message asking how he was doing. He sent back this photo...

I sent him another text asking if he remembered how to drive and he replied, "After I hit two cars and a tree, it all kind of came back to me."

Thanks for your continued prayers and if you are in the Tempe area, consider yourself WARNED.

DG Back at Starbucks, the Good Reverend Esquire and Some Good Reports

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:37:00 +0000

DG Back at Starbucks
I am thankful and overwhelmed to report of God's continued grace and healing of DG. Last Friday morning, I stopped at the Starbucks near my office (and one of DG's favorites SBs locations) and there was DG.

Sandy had dropped him off for a milk (coffee isn't quite on his list yet) and some fellowship with the Starbucks folks. After more than 4 months of hospitalization, recovery, procedures, more hospitalization, slower recovery, and too many medications, DG is truly doing better. I can't begin to tell you how exciting and truly awesome it is to claim the promise of Psalm 40, verses 1-3:

I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be astounded. They will put their trust in the Lord.

Friends, family and prayer warriors, sing and rejoice with me at God's decision to hear our cries and deliver DG from this great summer of struggle. And thank all of you for many months of prayers, encouraging words, shared tears and coming along side our family. DG has many new obstacles and the cancer will never leave him, but the darkness of these summer months may be fading with Arizona's sweltering temperatures (yet another answer to prayer for us down here in the desert).

The Good Reverend Esquire
As if Friday wasn't exciting enough, DG was able to attend a special service on Sunday. I was licensed to the Gospel Ministry in a short ceremony at Church on Mill. I have been asked to perform a wedding by some dear friends and have never been licensed to do so. Having been called to a temporary worship assignment nearly five years ago, the Church graciously acknowledge that calling. DG was able to attend and lead in prayer. Pastor Chuck led the time
with encouraging and challenging words for me. It was a special and meaningful time.

Then, I preached and boy, am I glad that I don't do that every week. If you were there, thanks. If not, we missed you. You can listen some here. - Church on Mill Sermons.

Now I have three licenses, one of which should be subject to weekly governmental monitoring for possible revocation. I am licensed to ministry, to practice law and to drive. Most of you that know me should know which license requires the heightened scrutiny.

This Week's DG Health Report
Finally, I am happy to report that DG underwent some scans this week and the results are good. The cancer, while still in his system, is dormant and none of the tumors seem to be active. Many of his counts are returning to normal ranges (Or at least not as dangerously high or low as before) and his strength returns daily. He continues to have problems in two areas: infection and the likelihood of more infection. This source of this problem is really part of another problem that is unrelated to the cancer - prostate health. Yes, DG is 60something and needs a procedure. In healthy, non-cancer ridden, no massive infection kind of guys, this is a normal operation with a modest recovery. For DG, it presents a serious threat to his health. The other threat is that the catheter continues to cause more infection and without the prostate procedure, the catheter cannot come out.

So the doctors are conferring. Pray for wisdom and God's perfect timing for this next procedure and the subsequent removal of the catheter. Continue to pray for DG's increased strength as this will directly impact his recovery from this procedure. Pray for Sandy as she continues her nursing duties and helps DG with more activity and better recovery.

DG Home and He Wears Pants

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 02:01:00 +0000

Many of you have been inquiring about DG's health and recovery. As I have written to you before, no news is usually good news.

Yes, all is well and DG's better health means we continue to celebrate daily improvements. Thanks be to God for hearing our prayers (and yours)! It is a great joy to have DG improving, albeit slowly, rather than declining.

Yesterday marked a milestone. For the first time in four months, DG left his bedclothes and house slippers behind and donned a pair of khakis, a button-up black shirt and a pair of real shoes. With bags and tubes neatly covered up, he was dressed and up and around all day. Then, later in the evening, DG attended one of his grandson's baseball games. He was able to sit there, cheer a bit and enjoy about a half hour of baseball.

Don't misunderstand, DG's days are still marked by regular intravenous medication runs, sleepy side-effects and monitoring all kinds of bodily fluid output. The catheter is still an ongoing issue with solutions that may not be ripe for many more weeks. Sandy continues her duties as the chief nurse and she is regularly exhausted by running DG's meds 4 to 5 times a day, but the encouragement of a healthier DG is a great motivator for all.

There was a moment at the baseball game when DG looked at me and tears were in his eyes. He was sitting there, slighter of frame, weaker of strength, but absolutely thrilled to tears to be outside and enjoying a little league game. Through the tears he said to me, "I just didn't think I'd ever get back to one of these games." I put my arm on his shoulder, agreed and just enjoyed the moments.

For the last few months, DG may have not thought he would ever be well enough. Well, today he is as well as God needs him to be. And we are all so thankful!

And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. - Colossians 3:17

DG Coming Home today and Happy Anniversary DG and Sandy!

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 19:45:00 +0000

DG is still in the hospital today and it looks like the docs may let him come home later. There are new specialists and new tests being run and today's prayer is simple: pray for unity of thought and treatment for all professionals involved. Being sick and hospitalized is hard enough when the doctors agree on a course of treatment, but it is challenging and somewhat discouraging when the doctors are suggesting opposite courses of action. The good news about either option is that DG can come home soon and they will run additional tests on an out-patient basis. Your prayers for wisdom for all involved are coveted.

As you can see (if your email program does not display photos, go to the blog site - dgwhealthnews.blogspot.com - to view the photo), the happy couple celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary in style today. Sandy got all gussied up and DG put on his best gown and cravat. If you need a Godly and real example of marriage "in sickness and in health" - this picture is worth thousands of words. If you are in need of encouragement because the challenges of your own relationships seem insurmountable, look no further than DG and Sandy's lifelong devotion to one another. If you wonder what it means to put the needs of another ahead of your own, here is what sacrifice looks like. Thanks be to God for their 43 years together!

DG's Own Words: the Best Three Days in a While and then Back to the Hospital

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 03:19:00 +0000

Just when the darkness and struggle seemed too much. Just when DG's own spirits were weak. Just when doctors challenged us all with words of finality. DG said yesterday, "these are the best three days I have had in months."

Family was in town and we were all together for much of the weekend. DG was eating better, he walked more and even had the energy to get up and get himself a snack from the kitchen. He was encouraged by his recovery and had a better outlook for the days ahead.

And then BAM! DG woke up this morning with terrible bladder spasms and a fever. They wanted to take all precautions and and got him to the ER right away. The likelihood is that DG's foly is infected. They will admit him overnight and grow the right cultures to better understand how to treat this (new) infection.

I had so hoped to report to you the first two paragraphs of this post and to praise the Lord for DG's new hope. But the reality of DG's health and complications are challenging. It is definitely a one step forward, two steps back journey.

But what has not changed from yesterday to today is that God is good and the hope we have in Him is not conditioned on how we feel. God's love, provision and promise not are not lavished upon us when we feel better, healthier and have more money. That great love and our great hope in Him are constants when our circumstances are not. Thanks be to God!

Please pray for a short hospital stay and a quick return home for more better days. Pray that God would help DG's body heal quickly of this new infection and that this foly can be removed.

Malachi 3:6
I am God—yes, I Am. I haven't changed. And because I haven't changed, you, the descendants of Jacob, haven't been destroyed.

Hebrews 13:8
Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.

DG Home from the Hospital and the View from Pisgah's Heights

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:08:00 +0000

DG came home from the hospital Monday evening. He was probably ready last Friday, but health insurance/hospital red-tape kept him there a few extra days.

This hospital visit, albeit lengthy (another week) was somewhat uneventful and filled with lots of tests, but the docs did make some additional important changes to DG's meds. DG has come home with more IV antibiotics and a better understanding of how these infections are moving through and impacting his system. There are parts of his treatment and care that are improving and then there are some other concerns about DG's liver. If you talk to one doctor, he reads DG"s labs and reports as good and another doctor is very concerned by other numbers.

Clearing away all the sticky hubris from the doctors' reports and prognostications, there are a couple of themes that cannot be ignored: 1) these months of infection are taking a toll on DG's system and vital organs and 2) the cancer has not gone away.

The most critical issue is that DG's liver is having trouble cleansing his system of toxins. The antibiotics are working on infection, the tubes are working to restore good bile production, but the liver's cleansing fuction is faltering. DG's ammonia levels are too high. This is a common complication with serious liver problems but it is also a complication that can overtake the liver tissue and lead to liver failure. Last Monday's acute incident and hospitalization were related to ammonia toxicity. High levels of the chemical cause incredible fatigue and mental confusion. As if the infection wasn't enough of a battle, now DG's body is dealing with ammonia.

Because of the ammonia issue and the continued, ever-changing infection, this trip to the hospital, the doctors were realistic with DG about his prognosis. As we have known for months, it is not going to be the cancer that kills, but the complications from the attempts at the various cures.

Friends, we have been discouraged before and DG's life has been sustained by the prayers of the righteous and some plastic tubing. This time, the hope of some recovery and some better health seem dimmer. We are not likely talking about days or weeks, but time now is precious. The doctor suggested that DG take a trip or do something he really wants to do, see important people he wants to see and enjoy time at home with family. Right now, DG's weakness and medication side effects make those kinds of journeys seem unlikely.

But DG and Sandy have not given up. They are prayerful and hopeful that the fight against infection and the good signs of some improved liver health may win out. DG's spirits, while weakened and frustrated, have not failed. His physical strength is not great but he talks about getting back to better nutrition and looking forward to a visit from Sandy's brother and sister-in-law this weekend.

Today, DG is complaining of back pain and it is especially painful when he stands up. They are calling the doctor that inserts (and adjusts) the tubing in his side to make sure that a tube has not moved out of proper position. Please pray that this new symptom can be alleviated with that kind of adjustment. Please also continue to pray for Sandy. Her spirits are compromised and her task list is overwhelming her.

Two nights ago, I put the boys to bed and my wife was out at a book club meeting. I sat down with my guitar and opened the old baptist hymnal. A 19th century hymn and its forgotten lyric sang to me. As I worshiped the Lord and lamented this challenging season, the hope of God's eternal promises encouraged me. We love and serve the God of the universe that who hears our prayers and forever keeps His promises.

Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!

And bids me at my Father’s throne
Make all my wants and wishes known.
In seasons of distress and grief,
My soul has often found relief
And oft escaped the tempter’s snare
By thy return, sweet hour of prayer!

Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
The joys I feel, the bliss I share,
Of those whose anxious spirits burn
With strong desires for thy return!
With such I hasten to the place
Where God my Savior shows His face,
And gladly take my station there,
And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!

Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
Thy wings shall my petition bear
To Him whose truth and faithfulness
Engage the waiting soul to bless.
And since He bids me seek His face,
Believe His Word and trust His grace,
I’ll cast on Him my every care,
And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!

Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
May I thy consolation share,
Till, from Mount Pisgah’s lofty height,
I view my home and take my flight:
This robe of flesh I’ll drop and rise
To seize the everlasting prize;
And shout, while passing through the air,
“Farewell, farewell, sweet hour of prayer!”

The Great Infection Hunt Continues and Sandy Home and Recovering

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 05:47:00 +0000

DG is still in the hospital today (Wednesday). The doctors and nurses are waiting on more of DG's blood test results and checking all possible sources of infection. Some of the scans and reporst are back and showing that the dead tumor full of infection continues to shrink. This is good news.

But there is a new bacteria in DG's liver. Further cultures will help the doctors know what strain of bacteria is in there. The main concern here is that one of the possible culprits is a very serious bacteria. But for now, DG and the doctors wait for more test results.

The foly has bacteria so they changed that. But the TAC line has no infection.

Anticipating the seriousness of the new liver infection, the doctors have changed some of DG's antibiotics and he has restarted IV antibiotic treatment. Once again, DG's TAC line has a purpose and Sandy will have to play nurse (again) by running DG twice to three times daily with various antibiotic drips. DG will likely stay put in the hospital for several more days as cultures grow and as his body adjusts to new meds. (I'm sensing a theme here).

The most hopeful comments made by the doctors today were that DG's body is fighting and will continue to fight these infections. The doctors are confident that this is all manageable and that time and drug treatments will one day soon clear DG's system of these various bugs. Pray that day comes soon.

In the meantime, thank you for praying for Sandy. Her procedure went well and while she was under twilight sleep, the doctors did an additional scan to make sure there is not any other questionable tissue in her body. The procedure to remove the bad tissue in her bladder was successful and the doctors are hopeful that no further treatment will be necessary. Sandy came home yesterday a bit groggy, but by Wednesday evening, she was in little or no pain and feeling much better. She hopes that tomorrow (Thursday) she will be able to visit DG in the hospital for part of the day.

Some Godly men visited DG's hospital on Tuesday evening. I walked into the room to see Dad and joined these ten men by divine appointment. They were from a sister church in the area and they came to DG's hospital bed to encourage him and to pray. They read scripture and sang scriptural songs. They reached out and put their hands on DG as each of the ten voiced a prayer.

Thanks to those guys for taking time out to make that visit. I know it encouraged DG's heart during some anxious moments. Tuesday and today, he was separated from Sandy for the longest time since this recent health crisis began back in May. DG's heart was troubled and concerned for Sandy and his helpless state challenged him all the more. God's time was perfect and to these ten men, I am so thankful.

One of those men read all of Psalm 103 over DG as we all prayed together. God reminded me that we are to forget none of "His benefits." In our darkest hour, when life and circumstances challenge us most, God is unchanged. He is good. He is merciful. He is compassionate. His lovingkindness endures forever. He is a God with a redemptive plan, not a God with mean intentions or a punitive heart. The Psalmist reminds me that these challenges and trials are fleeting - even our bodies will wither and fade, but God and his Kingdom are forever. Bless the Lord, O my soul!

Psalm 103 - A Psalm of David.

1 Bless the LORD, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name. 2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget none of His benefits; 3 Who pardons all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases; 4 Who redeems your life from the pit, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; 5 Who satisfies your years with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle. 6 The LORD performs righteous deeds And judgments for all who are oppressed.
7 He made known His ways to Moses, His acts to the sons of Israel. 8 The LORD is compassionate and gracious, Slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness. 9 He will not always strive with us, Nor will He keep His anger forever. 10 He has not dealt with us according to our sins, Nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. 11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, So great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear Him. 12 As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us. 13 Just as a father has compassion on his children, So the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.
14 For He Himself knows our frame; He is mindful that we are but dust. 15 As for man, his days are like grass; As a flower of the field, so he flourishes. 16 When the wind has passed over it, it is no more, And its place acknowledges it no longer. 17 But the lovingkindness of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, And His righteousness to children’s children, 18 To those who keep His covenant And remember His precepts to do them.
19 The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, And His sovereignty rules over all.
20 Bless the LORD, you His angels, Mighty in strength, who perform His word, Obeying the voice of His word! 21 Bless the LORD, all you His hosts, You who serve Him, doing His will.
22 Bless the LORD, all you works of His, In all places of His dominion; Bless the LORD, O my soul!

DG Back in Hospital and Sandy has a procedure tomorrow

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 05:11:00 +0000

All. Your prayers are coveted tonight. After a routine blood draw from DG's TAC line, DG's temp began to spike. His strength failed and he couldn't stand up.

The doctor told him to go to the ER again. And here we are. They are running vitals and testing his blood. It is likely that his tac line or foly are infected. Pray for a quick diagnosis and a short stay. More details to follow.

If DG and sandy didn't have enough, tomorrow sandy goes in for a procedure to remove pre cancerous tissue from her bladder. This is a repeat procedure from last year and likely not serious. Pray for her quick recovery and a good report. Mostly pray for her worry as she would rather be with DG in these hours and anxious moments at the hospital.

Thank you all and thank God that nothing separates us from His love. May He lavish that grace, love and healing on Dennis and Sandy tonight.

More Recovery, More Infection and the Need of Encouragement

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 22:53:00 +0000

I must apologize. It has been a week or more since my last update and many have inquired about DG's current condition and recovery.

I have found that the challenges of life do not wait for someone you care about to have a serious illness. Cancer and its complications are not respecters of family, the first day of school, business, anniversaries, friends, earning a living, etc., etc., etc. It's not an excuse but a reality that truly took me by surprise. How often I would pray that God could stop the world so that we could celebrate and care for those we love when they are in need.

In these last 10 days or so, DG has continued on that slow road to recovery. This photo was taken 6 days ago and as you can see, DG has come so far from those darker days of early summer.

The doctor's chief concerns about DG's continued recovery is the infections in his body and how the antibiotics treating those infections are impacting the disease and DG's body. The last week has been one of continued hydration challenges, a new infection diagnosis and changes to how DG "feels" that are often different by the hour. Fever comes and goes but DG has gained a bit of weight back (maybe a pound or two).

The next issue for DG is likely the need to remove the TAC line that was implanted during his hospital stay. The new infection was probably caused by the TAC line. Pray that God gives the doctors wisdom about when and if removing that line is necessary. DG no longer needs it for drug delivery, but it is being used weekly blood testing.

In addition to the infections that seem to be lingering (and hopefully slowly fading), DG has been somewhat discouraged. His recovery has been so slow. The stifling Arizona heat does not allow him to walk outside. His strength is spent quickly and his energy level is inconsistent at best. DG's better health has afforded him clarity of thought and self-awareness. But that makes him all the more concerned an anxious about his health, Mom's well-being and even his own spiritual life. He complains of not being able to hear God and having such little strength to pray and read God's word.

For this, DG and Sandy covet your prayers the most. Pray to God for a quicker recovery and swifter strength to return to DG. Pray for the Holy Spirit in DG to comfort him in this weakness and give him the endurance to continue on this recovery road. Pray for God to reassure DG that the Holy Spirit is working without ceasing in interceeding on DG's behalf.

Thank you all for your prayers, emails, visits, calls, meals and general concerns. These precious gifts and generosity have been so helpful to DG, Sandy and all of our family.

Psalm 37

²² Those who are blessed by Him will inherit the land,
but those cursed by Him will be destroyed.

²³ A man's steps are established by the LORD,
and He takes pleasure in his way.

²⁴ Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed,
because the LORD holds his hand.

²⁵ I have been young and now I am old,
yet I have not seen the righteous abandoned
or his children begging bread.

²⁶ He is always generous, always lending,
and his children are a blessing.

²⁷ Turn away from evil and do what is good,
and dwell there forever.

²⁸ For the LORD loves justice
and will not abandon His faithful ones.
They are kept safe forever,
but the children of the wicked will be destroyed.

²⁹ The righteous will inherit the land
and dwell in it permanently.

DG Home and We Are Praising God for Many Things!

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 02:31:00 +0000

Thank you all for your continued prayer. DG was in the hospital all week and finally was able to come home this evening (Saturday).

There are many great answers to prayer to report and thanks be to God, He has heard our many requests and provided for many and in His perfect time.

The doctors and nurses worked diligentl with DG all week. They worked to detect and remedy the bad drug interaction and then spent the rest of the week helping regulate DG's fluid/blood coagulation issues.

This list highlights the overwhelming flood of changes, showing what God is doing and has done this week with DG's health:

The dead tumor full of infection has shrunk more than 50% in size
The medicine that was making DG terribly sick has been changed to one that does not
DG's liver function counts are all back in the NORMAL range
DG has two new infections, but his time in the hospital helped catch them and they are also being treated
The oncologist told him that once he recovers fully from this infection and complications, he can start on some new drugs for his type of cancer
The infectious disease doctor admitted he had no medical reasons to believe that DG was going to live through the infections and recover, but now Dr. G. is hopeful of DG's recovery
The IR doctor informed him that there are new types of drain tubes that may help to sustain his liver function into the future
All counts indicate that the infections are losing strength quickly
DG is off all intervenous drug tratments and has traded daily infusions for oral antibiotics!

Our God is a great God indeed. Friends and family, dear ones, I have come to you so many times in these few months with a heavy heart. The sting of discouragement and the utter dispair of DG's condition was all too often the subject of these updates. But today, we are enjoying a celebration of God's great deliverance and healing for DG. The cancer is not gone, but these months of deadly complications may finally be behind DG, Sandy and all of us.

I spent some time with DG on Wednesday night and for the first time in many months, I was so encouraged. But more than our talk and more than DG's stronger condition, there was a familiar book on DG's hospital table. Few things have encouraged me as much as knowing that DG's condition and health had so much improved that he asked to have his bible at his bedside.

Thank you all for your prayers and for continuing to lift DG and Sandy in your prayers. We serve a great and mighty God. His love and mercy endures forever.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.- Matthew 5:6

DGW Still in the Hospital But Some Good News to Report

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 18:11:00 +0000

DG is still in the hospital and indeed his body was reacting poorly to the antibiotic regimen. After multiple tests and consultations, they have switched his antibiotics and regulated some fluid issues.

DG is a new man. His condition on Monday was self-described as a not unlike a prisoner of war after years of malnutrition. But this morning he is alert, energetic and out from under the cloud of symptoms that were the primary result of the antibiotic he was taking. Monday was dark and painful, but Wednesday morning looks much better.

In addition to the drug regimen changes, the docs have consulted one another and taken another look at his liver. The scans and Xrays show that the infection filled mass (that used to be the cancerous tumor) in his liver has shrunk 50%! The doctors are very pleased with the reduction of the size of the disease and the prognosis for ridding DG of these (still multiple) infections is very good.

The other interesting news was that DG had a visit from his cancer doctor as well. His oncologist encouraged him that after this fight with infection is over, there are brand new drug treatments for patients with carcinoid. He encouraged DG to continue the fight against the complications and to look forward some new treatments and drugs that may help in the future fight with more of those pesky carcinoid tumors.

Thank you all for your prayers. Many sent emails and called. God's protection, intervention and guidance of the doctors was obvious.

Now, DG will likely continue his stay at the hospital until Friday. The doctors are taking every precaution with the new medication and want to monitor its impact on his blood coagulation and his fluid issues. With his good humors this morning, I can see that this hospital stay will quickly turn to boredom. If you are able and/or local, email me and I'll send you some details about visiting DG.

Thanks for your diligence in prayer, your encouragement and friendship.

DG Again on His Way Back to the Hospital

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 23:11:00 +0000

Please pray for DG this afternoon. He is experiencing more side effects from the drugs he is taking to rid his body of infection. The symptoms he is experiencing are those that describe lactic acidosis (see previous post) and the infectious disease doctor asked him to come in right away.

It is very frustrating to know that the team of docs is having such issues with medications, etc. The infection needs to be gone, but once again, the cure is so often worse than the disease. What is most specifically frustrating about this is that the drug information on this medication, Zyvox, specifically warns carcinoid patients. But yet, here DG is almost two weeks into a regimen of this very powerful drug.

Your prayers are coveted.

Pancakes, Target and TAC Lines - Oh My!

noreply@blogger.com (RogBlogger) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 16:49:00 +0000

I am so excited to report DG's slow improvement. He saw his primary care yesterday, the doc adjusted some meds and then DG WENT TO TARGET! The scare of the ER trip earlier this week is behind him. His appetite is slowly improving and with some adjusted meds, the doctors are hopeful for weight gain, less water/ weight loss and improved health overall.

Last night DG dreamed about pancakes, complete with preparing the batter, cooking them up and enjoying a full plate. So, this morning, he and Sandy had some pancakes.

These last couple of days have been a great encouragement to us all. Your prayers and support have made all the difference. Specifically, God has continued to affirm DG's recovery and life through so many even in the last few days.

- Melissa L., thank you for your words of encouragement. Melissa shared the scripture below with us all this week. God used it to speak to me. Melissa is fervent in prayer and such an example to me. This week, her words were so hopeful and her e-mail prayer so timely.

- That same day I received an email from a friend and faithful prayer warrior that God had spoken to her at almost the same time as Melissa's email arrived. Arlene said in her email,"I knew God was ready and wanting to do His work in your father. When I prayed I could actually feel the Holy Spirit warmly responding with a hearty, powerful YES!"

- Then, I saw someone I had not seen in a while yesterday. Joey is one of DG's Starbucks friends and has moved on to teaching (at the school where my children attend). He grabbed my hand, squeezed hard and asked immediately about DG. I gave my quick answer and the Spirit of God through Joey looked back and said, "I don't know why, but God has brought Dennis to my mind so many times in the last few months." I smiled and handed him a card with the blog address and said, "I know why God has been prompting you to pray."

Then finally, on that same day, Sandy had time to send me a quick email to let me know that DG started talking about writing the Encourager again. His Holy Spirit it seems cannot be subdued by fatigue, disease or a medicated haze. DG's desire to return to some kind of service, ministry and relationship with you is starting to eek out from underneath those plaid pajamas. I do not believe God is entirely finished with DG.

Today, our prayer request is simple - continued recovery and a 2:00 p.m. central line flush. The TAC line that delivers DG's meds is not working properly when the nurse tries to take blood. This is obviously a normal complication, and likely a simple fix. In weeks past, DG was often not communicating his needs but allowing Sandy to speak for him. But this morning, DG asked me to ask you all to pray for his 2:00 TAC line flush and specifically that it would be nothing more than a flush. The removal and replacement of the line is more painful and more invasive than DG and his body would prefer to tolerate. Thank you from DG for your prayers.

Thanks be to God for the promise of life, abundant and eternal. Take a big bite of it today. It's ours because Jesus paid for it all. My prayer for you today is to know that sweet goodness and joy of life. Even in the midst of great struggle, that life is ours today and I pray it tastes just like DG's first bite of those fluffy pancakes!

I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. - Psalm 27:13-14 NIV