Dear Praying Friends,
Thank you for praying. Here is an update on the latest tests, including CT scans, MRIs, and bloodwork, followed by the inevitable waiting period. Anyone who has been through this knows how those quiet days before hearing results can stretch endlessly. Hope and anxiety often become constant companions during these times.
The news this time was steady. No new cancer. No worrisome changes. The spot on my left kidney is unchanged since May. My right kidney removal area is still clear. The lymph nodes under observation remain unchanged, and the rest of my organs show no additional concerns. In the cancer world, “stable” is the word you pray for. Not going backward, not moving ahead, just holding the ground. For me, that is reason enough to stop and give thanks to God again.
But there is more to living with cancer than test results. What most people do not see is the daily reality of life without adrenal glands. Addison’s disease affects everything: my energy, my rest, my ability to handle stress, and even how I fight off simple infections. I have to be careful with every change in weather, every unfamiliar ache, and every surprise. The routine most folks take for granted is no longer simple for me.
The most significant inconvenience I face is not just the disease itself, but the over a hundred pills, weekly injections, enemas, and a handful of different drinks, electrolytes, and alternative treatments to keep my system working and fighting cancer. Most days, medication alarms and reminders dictate my schedule. None of it is what I ever expected. Some days, it feels like my body is more chemistry lab than anything else.
My Shepherd is so good to me. I am still able to teach, write, and love my family. “Stable” means another chance to show up, another day to walk with the people I love, another reminder that God’s faithful love truly does not waver.
How You Can Pray With Me
Pray for peace in my heart, whatever tomorrow’s results or symptoms may bring.
Pray for the strength to keep serving and loving well.
Pray for wisdom for my medical team, that they will have insight and clarity for the road ahead.
Pray for grace on the days when I am weary, that God’s strength would be enough.
Pray for Betty. There is no doubt in my mind that it is much more difficult for loved ones than for the patient. Pray that she will have the strength and comfort to care for her own heart as she cares for me.
Pray that I will use my life for His honor and glory. I have no desire to be a victim when I know my Savior already won the victory.
If you are walking through your own diagnosis or any season of pain, please know you are not alone. God never leaves us, not for a moment.
Thank you for your friendship, your prayers, and every kindness you have shown. You are a true gift to my family and me.
With a grateful heart,
Austin