Some of you may have noticed I have not been active on peebs.net for some time. Some of you are also aware of the reason, but I thought it appropriate to make a brief factual statement, and to ask for prayer.
Monday, September 26th 2011 was like any ordinary day, Edna and I both fully occupied in various activities. When I came down from my study late at night however Edna said she had developed a terrible pain. In the early hours of the Tuesday I took her up to our local Forth Valley Royal Hospital believing that the pain was caused by gall stones. Tests did not confirm this, and an MRI scan later that week revealed significant tumours on the liver. There were further tests and a biopsy confirmed they were secondary tumours, from an unidentified primary.
The primary site of the cancer still remains unknown, but Edna has now had 3 cycles of chemotherapy, finishing on the 10th January. This left her very, very weak, although she has regained some strength as the toxins from the chemo worked out of her system. Last week, Thursday 19th, they did another CT scan, and yesterday we were told this shows that in spite of the chemotherapy, the cancer has advanced. The doctor has therefore advised cancelling the remaining 3 cycles of chemo which had been planned – they would do more harm than good. No alternative chemo is proposed.
The situation now is that Edna may improve temporarily as the negative effects of the chemo wear off, but the last hope of any cure, or even prolonged remission, has gone. We value the time we have left together, not knowing how long or short it is.
This struck without warning, with devastating suddenness, and since the diagnosis all activities I was involved in have been put on hold – my studies, church work, Gideon work, etc., as well as contributing to peebs.net. Care for Edna must take priority. I have wanted to contribute to a number of discussions, but was unable to devote the time to it. I may in due course but only if and when time allows.
In the meantime, Edna remains strong in her spirit, in her faith trusting everything to the One who will never leave us or forsake us. We value more than words can express being consciously aware that our names are being mentioned continually at the throne of grace by our many friends. I simply ask that you will pray that we will both receive strength for whatever lies ahead.
Best wishes and love to all
Iain
