Healing

'Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track. Don’t assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don’t, dear friend, resent God’s discipline; don’t sulk under his loving correction. It’s the child he loves that God corrects; a father’s delight is behind all this." Proverbs 3:4-6 The Message


While biopsies may not be fun, Doug has settled into a regimen of obtaining them yearly. It's been two and half years now since his diagnosis of prostate cancer. Initially, we were in a state of grief and emotional distress. The word "cancer" evoked countless emotions within each of us. Over time, God has taught us many things about ourselves and also about Himself, the Great Physician.

In January, Doug had his third biopsy. This is our second "cancer free" biopsy. The doctor can not explain where the cancer went, because the course of treatment we chose was holistic.  Doug's  treatment plan was a change of diet and a decision to pray our way through it. Our initial decision was based upon the type of cancer and fully supported by his doctor. In fact, Doug and I were inclined to seek surgery or other options, but his doctor recommended we proceed slowly. He said, "research showed the type of cancer he had was slow growing."  We chose to have yearly biopsies and bi-annual check-ups with blood-work, etc.

In January, Dr. Morgan said, "I don't know what you are doing, but keep doing it. I can not find the cancer. We know it was there and we know we have not done anything to remove it. I know I am biopsying in the correct area, yet it is NOT showing up."

Doug said, "God can take it away!"

Dr. Morgan jumped up and hugged Doug and said, "Stay focused on that!"

Doug was Dr. Morgan's last patient of the day. It was a beautiful sight to see Doug and Dr. Morgan basically skip down the halls chatting about how good God is as we prepared to leave.

Doug will continue to have biopsies and tests as scheduled. With each positive result we are thankful for the time we have been given and pray God continues to bless us with many more years together. Doug and I have learned to trust God with each moment of our lives. We have also learned to embrace the blessings and adventures in our path. Each day is a new day; keep your focus on God and trust Him with every detail of your lives.

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,
Andrea Bowling Perdue

Praise

The word "Praise" is not near a big enough word! We can not express our thankfulness adequately to our Heavenly Father for answering our prayers.

Yesterday, as we sat in the doctors office waiting for test results there was a peaceful quiet. Both Doug and I sat in silent prayer as other patients came and went. The commotion of nurses, doctors, and staff hummed as they proceeded with daily tasks; Time moving forward as it most certainly does and will continue to do until the end of all time.

Dr. Morgan bounced into our room with a HUGE smile on his face and said,

"It's great news! This is what we always want to see! NO growth in cancer in a year!"

What sweet relief and excitement we both felt. Victory unlike I have ever known or felt. Today, we continue to praise GOD and thank HIM for what HE is doing in and through Doug's body.

We also thank GOD for each of you, for your love, encouragement, and prayers. We are truly blessed to have so many lifting us up in prayer. May GOD bless each of you.

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea Bowling Perdue

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST

Please storm the heavens in prayer for my husband, Doug. Recently, his PSA levels jumped from .8 to 7.4. After repeated blood-work, the levels maintained an elevated status. We met with our urologist in late December. After examination, he scheduled a biopsy. Today, Dr. Morgan did 12 biopsy's. We meet with Dr. Morgan on January 25th to discuss the results and treatment options, if necessary.

Up until today, Doug did NOT want to discuss his medical situation. The children and I respected his request. We only shared it with some family and a few close friends. After Doug's biopsy, he asked me to write about his medical situation.

Doug loves the Lord and knows the power of prayer. He and I both appreciate your love, encouragement, and prayers more than you will ever know.

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,
Andrea

Reunion Of Hearts

Not rain, not humidity, not even pesky mosquitoes thwarted the plans of Doug's classmates. Memories and love spilled forth as they shared their hearts with one another. Beautiful smiles and warm hearts radiated as laughter sprinkled with tears fell upon many. God's presence spoke loudly!

Time well spent, valued, and cherished. One never knows if tomorrow shall come. With reality held in hand, Doug approached these events with purpose, grace, and serenity. He purposed to listen carefully and hear the hearts of his classmates.

Privileged I am to have viewed this weekend through the heart of my best friend and husband, Doug. I praise God for his presence in my life and I pray he and I will share many other reunion of hearts with others along the way.

"Friends come and go. They seldom know, but they do change you."  Laurence Craig-Green

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea