Hiya All,
So over the past few week food’s been sticking a bit, my throat has felt ‘odd’ and I decided to call the gastro intestinal nurse (Eleanor Church) at Bedford South Wing. She thought that my symptoms warranted further investigation and today I had an emergency (short notice) endoscopy (camera down the throat) under sedation. Unfortunately it appears as though the main tumour in my oesophagus may well be growing again. I was hoping that the health problems were just due to radiotherapy scaring but the consultant who conducted the test said ‘I see no evidence of scaring’ and ‘it seems as though it is growing again.
They showed me the pictures, the tumour on the first scan was clearly visible as a pale lump. On the scan I saw today it was smaller but still there. It would seem that it shrunk and then grew again. They took a biopsy today so we still have to wait for the formal results. The chance that it is not malignant is very unlikely as it is in the same spot. As it happens chemo starts again tomorrow – just in time it would appear. Oh well let battle two of the war commence – I’m up for it.
To everyone reading this be under NO DOUBT. My health up till this point has been 100% a miracle of God. Remember I was given between 9 & 12 months (the average with this cancer) and here I am in month 10 still functioning and feeling fine. Even if God decides that it is downhill from this point onwards I would still be grateful for this past wonderful summer, making it to Amy’s wedding and graduating back in June. I am going to keep on fighting, I remain happy and positive!!
The wedding is getting closer. Our wonderful Christian MP (Alistair Burt) is trying to help by contacting the British Consulate in Canberra and trying to move things along on the visa for James. He will forever have my vote (which as a ‘Champagne Socialist’ is quite an admittance). As things stands all should happen on the 18th October – we might even not have to go to Vegas!
Well guys sorry to be the bearer of bad news.
Please pray for tomorrow; if I’m honest I’m dreading chemo round #5. Without a PICC line it will hurt and I’m a wuss!
See ya guys
Blessings!
Dave
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Weekend Wonders!
Eh Up Me Ducks,
Hope you all had a great weekend!
Just coming to end of a great weekend with Adrian, Ann, Sam, Ben & Rachel (my little brother and his family) who came for pre-wedding plans, measurements and alterations. Just three weeks to go! AD & Ann helped us print and fold thousands of Alpha leaflets ready for the church course which starts next week.
This morning I preached at Southend Methodist Church (in Bedford) and my brother and Ben (who is a chorister at Derby Cathedral) came with me. This afternoon we had a great few hours on the boat and James played for the Clapham Colts and won 4-3. All in all a successful weekend
Still no groom here (minor point), he’ll make it (I’m sure!), getting a bit late for Scotland now, might have to go to Vegas after all.
Health is OK(ish), food is sticking a little but the oncologist said this might happen and could just be scaring from the radiotherapy (hope so). Chemo starts again Wednesday – urgh...
See ya
David
Hope you all had a great weekend!
Just coming to end of a great weekend with Adrian, Ann, Sam, Ben & Rachel (my little brother and his family) who came for pre-wedding plans, measurements and alterations. Just three weeks to go! AD & Ann helped us print and fold thousands of Alpha leaflets ready for the church course which starts next week.
This morning I preached at Southend Methodist Church (in Bedford) and my brother and Ben (who is a chorister at Derby Cathedral) came with me. This afternoon we had a great few hours on the boat and James played for the Clapham Colts and won 4-3. All in all a successful weekend
Still no groom here (minor point), he’ll make it (I’m sure!), getting a bit late for Scotland now, might have to go to Vegas after all.
Health is OK(ish), food is sticking a little but the oncologist said this might happen and could just be scaring from the radiotherapy (hope so). Chemo starts again Wednesday – urgh...
See ya
David
Thursday, September 25, 2008
PICCS 'n' STUFF!
Hi Guys
Loads to tell you; firstly, the PICC line. I went on Tuesday for blood tests and the PICC line to be fitted. For those new to my blog this is a permanent tube fed into a vein in the crook of your arm and pushed all the way to your heart. The chemo hurts a lot less through a PICC than into your hand. Well the first time round it went in really easily but this time they pushed and pulled and tried both arms but to no avail! I look like a pin cushion. Basically, the chemo earlier in the year has mucked up my veins. All this means is it will have to go into the back of my hand instead. I asked them why it hurt so much. First time round my first course of chemo went into my hand and hurt a lot. They told me that the chemo I’m on has the same PH as neat bleach! Ouch; that’s got to hurt! Trust me it does!
Anyhow, chemo starts again on Wednesday; I’ll survive no doubt! I can tell I’m ready for some more, my swallowing isn’t too good again and I feeling a bit sick after meals. This could just be from the scaring – let’s hope so! Pray that it is not the ‘big C’ making a buggery comeback.
Still no news on James Fokken’s visa, he’s not here yet. 100% too late for a legal English wedding but still OK for Scotland. If Scotland becomes impossible then off to Vagas! We have to get this girl wed somewhere legally before the all important Christian ceremony. Any ideas guys?
The team that runs XLR8 (the Wootton New Life Church youth group) met on Monday to discuss how things are going. We decided to work on the atmosphere in the chapel so set about with some subtle lighting, big screen video worship, Chris Tomlin (latest big ‘thing’ in funky worship) blasted out through an IPOD player – Methodism embraces the 21st century. It went really, really well! The kids loved it. Afterwards I did a bible study on heaven & hell – yep we believe in both – nutty Christians!
Had a mad few days travelling with Teresa to Wales and then London – really busy but home now.
Adrian and Ann are coming for the weekend; lots of dress fittings for Rachael (their daughter and my niece and God-daughter too) and hopefully with a good forecast lots of boating too. I promise I’ll report back on all the fun! How many ! Exclamation marks! Can I put? In one blog!!!!!
See ya, you mad supportive troops!
Bless ya
Dave
Loads to tell you; firstly, the PICC line. I went on Tuesday for blood tests and the PICC line to be fitted. For those new to my blog this is a permanent tube fed into a vein in the crook of your arm and pushed all the way to your heart. The chemo hurts a lot less through a PICC than into your hand. Well the first time round it went in really easily but this time they pushed and pulled and tried both arms but to no avail! I look like a pin cushion. Basically, the chemo earlier in the year has mucked up my veins. All this means is it will have to go into the back of my hand instead. I asked them why it hurt so much. First time round my first course of chemo went into my hand and hurt a lot. They told me that the chemo I’m on has the same PH as neat bleach! Ouch; that’s got to hurt! Trust me it does!
Anyhow, chemo starts again on Wednesday; I’ll survive no doubt! I can tell I’m ready for some more, my swallowing isn’t too good again and I feeling a bit sick after meals. This could just be from the scaring – let’s hope so! Pray that it is not the ‘big C’ making a buggery comeback.
Still no news on James Fokken’s visa, he’s not here yet. 100% too late for a legal English wedding but still OK for Scotland. If Scotland becomes impossible then off to Vagas! We have to get this girl wed somewhere legally before the all important Christian ceremony. Any ideas guys?
The team that runs XLR8 (the Wootton New Life Church youth group) met on Monday to discuss how things are going. We decided to work on the atmosphere in the chapel so set about with some subtle lighting, big screen video worship, Chris Tomlin (latest big ‘thing’ in funky worship) blasted out through an IPOD player – Methodism embraces the 21st century. It went really, really well! The kids loved it. Afterwards I did a bible study on heaven & hell – yep we believe in both – nutty Christians!
Had a mad few days travelling with Teresa to Wales and then London – really busy but home now.
Adrian and Ann are coming for the weekend; lots of dress fittings for Rachael (their daughter and my niece and God-daughter too) and hopefully with a good forecast lots of boating too. I promise I’ll report back on all the fun! How many ! Exclamation marks! Can I put? In one blog!!!!!
See ya, you mad supportive troops!
Bless ya
Dave
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Great Weekend
Hi Guys
Sorry about the secrecy regarding last weekend, we'd arranged a surprise party for my Dad's 70th birthday - obviously I couldn't talk about it! We all went up to Derby and hid at my brother's house until they arrived - he seemed genuinely surprised. It was great to see all the family and celebrate together.
In the morning we had a family (All Age) service at church - great turnout nearly 60 there (59 to be precise!). We shared breakfast together beforehand which is always brill - what a fab church.
Could do with your prayers guys, I've been feeling a bit low recently - panicky - suppose it's the impending chemo starting up again; ask the Lord for some peace for me would you? Thanks! October is shaping up to be mad, chemo, wedding, half term in France. Eek.....
The timescales ae up for James & Amy today so it looks like they will have to marry legally in Scotland a few days before the church service inn Bedford. Seems as though we'll be flying up to Edinburgh the Wednesday before the wedding. He could still make it here in time but only if his passport arrives tomorrow. Pray it does! Do your stuff God!
I'm of to a meeting at Church now with leaders of other local New Wine churches to discuss how we might work together more - can't beat a bit of fellowship with like-minded friends can you?
All the best everyone
Dave
Sorry about the secrecy regarding last weekend, we'd arranged a surprise party for my Dad's 70th birthday - obviously I couldn't talk about it! We all went up to Derby and hid at my brother's house until they arrived - he seemed genuinely surprised. It was great to see all the family and celebrate together.
In the morning we had a family (All Age) service at church - great turnout nearly 60 there (59 to be precise!). We shared breakfast together beforehand which is always brill - what a fab church.
Could do with your prayers guys, I've been feeling a bit low recently - panicky - suppose it's the impending chemo starting up again; ask the Lord for some peace for me would you? Thanks! October is shaping up to be mad, chemo, wedding, half term in France. Eek.....
The timescales ae up for James & Amy today so it looks like they will have to marry legally in Scotland a few days before the church service inn Bedford. Seems as though we'll be flying up to Edinburgh the Wednesday before the wedding. He could still make it here in time but only if his passport arrives tomorrow. Pray it does! Do your stuff God!
I'm of to a meeting at Church now with leaders of other local New Wine churches to discuss how we might work together more - can't beat a bit of fellowship with like-minded friends can you?
All the best everyone
Dave
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Poetry Please!
Hi All
Had to just quickly blog about last night's poetry reading from our friend Dawn Bauling. It was fantastic, she is so talented. Dawn read a number of poems from her first published collection 'Loud Voices In The Quiet Child'.
One of my favourites is this little beauty called 'Campagne':
Champagne
in the morning,
before love and after,
blurs the day's sharp edges, leaving
sweet burps.
Cool eh? If you like the book (I can recommend it) drop me an 'e' at peaktandd@aol.com it is £7.99.
It was great to meet up with some old Woodside friends last night too.
See ya
Dave
Had to just quickly blog about last night's poetry reading from our friend Dawn Bauling. It was fantastic, she is so talented. Dawn read a number of poems from her first published collection 'Loud Voices In The Quiet Child'.
One of my favourites is this little beauty called 'Campagne':
Champagne
in the morning,
before love and after,
blurs the day's sharp edges, leaving
sweet burps.
Cool eh? If you like the book (I can recommend it) drop me an 'e' at peaktandd@aol.com it is £7.99.
It was great to meet up with some old Woodside friends last night too.
See ya
Dave
Friday, September 12, 2008
Doin Good!
Hi All
Sorry I haven't blogged in a while, things have been a little hectic.
I went to see the oncologist on Monday for my regular appointment. No real news apart from the 'putting back' of my chemo to October 1st. This way I should get one round in before the wedding and another afterwards. Joy! I'm having a PIC line again (fitted on the 23rd Sept) as the platinum based chemo hurts like hell if it goes into a vein. I'm a wuss, I confess! I did talk to him about the prognosis now, the main tumour is under control but the little nodules remain a concern; lets pray that the chemo and prayer continue to do their job. I'm feeling really well at the moment and swallowing is fine. All being well I should be back to work full-time from January - what a year.
Had quite a busy week church wise, went out for a meal on Monday to Dave & Ellens (thanks guys great veggie grub and fellowship), Tuesday XLR8 (youth group) started up again, Wednesday we had a strategic planning meeting for the building project (amongst other things), Thursday saw the first night of the new group for younger kids called the Rock and tonight our mate Dawn Bauling launches her new poetry collection. Wow; its great to be busy!
The church building project is really exciting and you can view the early plans on the church website at www.woottonnewlife.org.uk. This Sunday we have our brill 'All Age Worship' with breakfast beforehand so if you at a loose end you'd be welcome to join us from 9.30 am for breakfast and 10.30 am for the service.
A plug for John & Amanda's inn 'The Bear' at Alderwasley Nr Belper, Derbyshire. They're having an Abba night and hog roast on 0791 999 4026 with tribute band Mamma-Mia. More info at www.bear-hotel.com.
Thanks for checking in on me. I'll have lots to tell you after the weekend, but can't tell you now - it's a surprise.
For your prayers James Fokkens still hasn't received his visa. This is getting serious, if it is not through in the next few days the wedding date is in jeopardy. It might be that they have the religious ceremony (thus married in the eyes of God) and then complete the legal formalities after the honeymoon. I'll keep you posted.
Have a great weekend
Dave
Sorry I haven't blogged in a while, things have been a little hectic.
I went to see the oncologist on Monday for my regular appointment. No real news apart from the 'putting back' of my chemo to October 1st. This way I should get one round in before the wedding and another afterwards. Joy! I'm having a PIC line again (fitted on the 23rd Sept) as the platinum based chemo hurts like hell if it goes into a vein. I'm a wuss, I confess! I did talk to him about the prognosis now, the main tumour is under control but the little nodules remain a concern; lets pray that the chemo and prayer continue to do their job. I'm feeling really well at the moment and swallowing is fine. All being well I should be back to work full-time from January - what a year.
Had quite a busy week church wise, went out for a meal on Monday to Dave & Ellens (thanks guys great veggie grub and fellowship), Tuesday XLR8 (youth group) started up again, Wednesday we had a strategic planning meeting for the building project (amongst other things), Thursday saw the first night of the new group for younger kids called the Rock and tonight our mate Dawn Bauling launches her new poetry collection. Wow; its great to be busy!
The church building project is really exciting and you can view the early plans on the church website at www.woottonnewlife.org.uk. This Sunday we have our brill 'All Age Worship' with breakfast beforehand so if you at a loose end you'd be welcome to join us from 9.30 am for breakfast and 10.30 am for the service.
A plug for John & Amanda's inn 'The Bear' at Alderwasley Nr Belper, Derbyshire. They're having an Abba night and hog roast on 0791 999 4026 with tribute band Mamma-Mia. More info at www.bear-hotel.com.
Thanks for checking in on me. I'll have lots to tell you after the weekend, but can't tell you now - it's a surprise.
For your prayers James Fokkens still hasn't received his visa. This is getting serious, if it is not through in the next few days the wedding date is in jeopardy. It might be that they have the religious ceremony (thus married in the eyes of God) and then complete the legal formalities after the honeymoon. I'll keep you posted.
Have a great weekend
Dave
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Wedding Bells
Hi GuysTrying to be good and blog every day! Been doing a few jobs with Amy & Teresa at the office today - Amy started work for Kip McGrath as office manager officially yesterday and it is great to have her on board.
We are counting down the days until James arrives on the 12th of September, Amy is missing him terribly. She's been so good and hasn't been to her new house yet - wants to wait until they can go together - how sweet is that?
Our house has become 'Wedding Central'; the house is full of frocks, RSVPs, hats and wedding mags. I need a suit but I'm holding off until after my next chemo and the inevitable weight loss after which I will be a svelte 11 stone and buff (I wish!!!). Can't beleive I'll be a father-in-law; any tips anyone? To be honest just really overjoyed to be around for the big day - it wasn't too certain earlier in the year.
Well I'd better go and supervise bath-time for little Carys who went back to school today as a big year 3 girl.
See ya
Dave
Monday, September 1, 2008
Over The Hills & Far Away
Hi Everyone,
We made it home yesterday after what seemed like the longest flight in history! Another 22 hours in the air; I've watched every film Quantas offers! This time we stopped off in Bangkok. On Friday night (before we left) we met up with Phil & Jen (James Fokkens Dad & step-Mum) in Sydney and went out to China town for dinner. It was great to meet them in advance of the wedding; we had a really great night.
I've added some pictures and a video of our visit to Hillsong Church. All the shots are of their Church building not a conference centre or hired hall - it really is an amazing place. Having said all that I wouldn't swap it for Wootton New Life (missing my mad church after a month away).
My health is fine at present, I see the Oncologist on Monday and chemo starts again a week on Thursday. Urgh.. Please keep praying for me; the medics expect the nasty to re-appear at any time; I'm in faith that it won't.
I'm still on the veggie diet and not missing meat. I drank whilst in Aussie but will be back 'on the wagon' again from tomorrow.
God Bless
Dave
We made it home yesterday after what seemed like the longest flight in history! Another 22 hours in the air; I've watched every film Quantas offers! This time we stopped off in Bangkok. On Friday night (before we left) we met up with Phil & Jen (James Fokkens Dad & step-Mum) in Sydney and went out to China town for dinner. It was great to meet them in advance of the wedding; we had a really great night.
I've added some pictures and a video of our visit to Hillsong Church. All the shots are of their Church building not a conference centre or hired hall - it really is an amazing place. Having said all that I wouldn't swap it for Wootton New Life (missing my mad church after a month away).
My health is fine at present, I see the Oncologist on Monday and chemo starts again a week on Thursday. Urgh.. Please keep praying for me; the medics expect the nasty to re-appear at any time; I'm in faith that it won't.
I'm still on the veggie diet and not missing meat. I drank whilst in Aussie but will be back 'on the wagon' again from tomorrow.
God Bless
Dave
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