Back to Home Page
Back to Memorial Page

August 13, 2004

My Dear Brothers and Sisters,

"Faith is the realization of things hoped for; and the evidence of things not seen." As I sat and listened to St. Paul last weekend, while gathering with the retired priests of the Josephite order here at my home away from home, I was struck by the power, mystery, and certainty of those words. How many times I have heard and read them and yet, this week, it's like they are brand new. "Realization...evidence..." Not just wishful thinking, or, "I hope...", but absolute certainty. How I needed those words, that truth, this week. Let me catch you up.

Late last week I was informed that this would be the week for my first bone marrow biopsy and DNA test since the transplant. This is the first big step in finding out what's been going on since the transplant. They already knew that I hadn't "rejected" the transplant because of the two bouts of GVHD with which I've been wrestling, but this would give us the first good look at whether or not there is a graft and, what's happened to the leukemia. Naturally, some anxiety sets in but then the word of the Lord through St. Paul! I don't have to worry or doubt. God has brought about all that is good in me and He won't change that now. "Realization...evidence." Though I don't see it yet I know He has done it! But that's not all! After an appointment on Monday for blood work and the rest, the folks told me to take Tuesday and Wednesday off. Everything was looking so good there was no need to come in. Wouldn't you know...Tuesday they call and say come in immediately! We've detected an infection in the blood caused by some problem with the catheter in my chest. That afternoon they started a "high dose" treatment of antibiotics that will need to be infused 3X's a day for two weeks. If it's not one thing it's another :-) "Realization...evidence..." God is still at work!

So, for right now, what can I say. A little setback but one that with your help in prayer we'll overcome. I wish I could tell you more but for right now we'll just have to wait a little longer. Continue to pray for me - and all the folks who stand in need of prayer. You have a power that goes all imagining and understanding. I pray for you daily. I'll see you soon.

"Wait on the Lord; be of good courage; and He will strengthen thine heart."

Peace and Love

Fr. Rick