More Chemo & Radiotherapy In 2010

Hi Guys,

Well had the full CT scan this morning and then a meeting with my oncologist and upper GI nurse. It would appear that things are pretty much as the endoscopy suggested yesterday. The tumour has spread from it's original site in the junction of the gullet into the top of my stomach. This growth combined with the radiotherapy damage (fibrosis) is causing the swallowing difficulties. Talking to Dr Bulusu it would appear that I've done very well to have no spread until now and he doesn't seem too concerned. I'm booked in for a course of radiotherapy at Addenbrookes and the start of Chemotherapy (Capacitemene tablets) after Christmas. This should help keep the little blighter in place.

The good news is that there is no sign of any secondary tumour which is a real relief, liver, lungs etc. are all clear. He's explained how the tumour and fibrosis affects the 'motility' of the oesophagus and stomach meaning that food doesn't go down as quickly as it might and my brain gets told by my belly 'I'm full'.

All in all, two years on things could be a lot worse, I respond well to chemo and it's been 18 months since the last treatment. I'm relying on your prayers and God's intervention.

Thanks for checking in.

Dave

Bad News I'm Afraid....

Hi All,

I know, I know, I've not blogged for ages. I've been well and not had a lot to say. Unfortunately my swallowing has deteriorated recently and so tests (which were for once not scheduled) were swiftly arranged. Yesterday I had an endoscopy which showed (so I am told) the tumour spreading into my upper stomach and up my oesophagus from the lower junction where it was originally. This is the first really bad news for over 18 months.

I have a full CT scan and meeting with my hero oncologist today so will blog tonight with the latest news. I will keep blogging if I'm starting treatment again too.

Just to fill you in with other news, we had a great two weeks in Antigua early in the month - fantastic sunshine therapy and then back to the snow. Amy held the fort business wise whilst we were away and did a great job. She's in Aussie with James at the moment. We're off to the cottage in France with my Mum and Dad for the new year.

Congratulations to Anthea Burrell (my best mate's daughter) who has just given birth to a bouncing (9lb 7oz - ouch) baby boy called Cody. He's a fantastic little chap and I've already had lots of holds and cuddles and tackled an 'interesting' nappy! Not lost the knack!

Check in later for more news and if you have kept looking at my blog despite me not writing too much recently then thanks.

As always Teresa is working hard and looking out for me; thank-you my darling.

Have a great Christmas everyone.

Luv Dave xx

1 Year And No Treatment!

Hi Everyone

Just a quick update from the Redfers. I'm doing OK; a few swallowing problems but nothing to worry about. My next appointment with the oncologist is in January and I'll post again then and let you know how it's going.

I'm not going to bore you all with the minutiae of my life; to be honest the more I told everyone the more some people felt empowered to comment on the vast number of holidays I take! I plan to take loads more too! Seriously, when I was in treatment it was great to keep everyone up to date with all the detail but now I'm so much better it seems a bit 'precious'.

It's been a year since my last chemo - a whole year and I'm still well; how cool is that?

Check in again in January 2010 for the latest update.

Have a great Christmas & new year everyone.

Best wishes

Dave xx

Slobber, slobber etc...

Hi Troops,

Firstly thank-you for all your kind comments - you are all heroes!

Well just had a wisdom tooth out - actually just the exposed root from a previous 'bodged' extraction. Had to go to the Maxo-Oral-Facial unit at Bedford South Wing Hospital. It took a crow bar, extra shots of Novacane, 4 stitches and a dental surgeon with a strong wrist. Glad it's gone; it was painful exposed roots etc....

Teresa's birthday today, started with a champagne breakfast at a local hotel then had to go back to bed. Champagne with breakfast is to be recommended but, you need a sleep afterwards. Nothing dodgy just an overwhelming fatigue.. Happy Birthday Florence.

Signing off now for two weeks, off to France and the cottage for a nice half term holiday. I'll blog again when we get back.

Thanks for checking in again...

Luv Dave xxxxx

WOW!!!! Note The Changed Blog Title

Dear Friends,

Just changed the blog title from 'Cancer Fight' to 'Cancer Survivor'. 18 months with no growth or spread. God, Florence (& my family), the NHS and my friends (WNL Church, Stamps, Hearns, and their Lordships Burrell & Forsell) are so good!

The tumour is not growing, not spreading in fact really behaving its evil self. The swallowing problems are caused by fibrosis from last year's radiotherapy, the worst I'll need is a stent if it gets any worse.

Not got another appointment now until 2010 and, wait for it, no scan beforehand. Might I actually be in the few % of sufferers who survive this disease? Starting to beleive it now.
Have to say I was VERY nervous before this scan. You have to prepare yourself for the worse because if you get bad news and haven't even thought you might where does that leave you? Sleepless night last night and actually felt sick this morning.

So thank-you for your prayers & your friendship.

God Bless

David

xxxxxxxxxx

Update (Again!)

Mallorca was fantastic; great room, pool etc. superb weather and the kind of hotel with a watchtower and sniper in case of undesirables (and children) trying to muscle in! Seriously a brill weekend. Teresa was able to do a bit of business too whilst there. Loads of sun, swimming and tapas.

Here's the timescales for the next few day.

Tuesday: Off to the BUPA hospital early in the afternoon for a minor procedure. Bloomin chemo mucks up everything! Scan then at Bedford South wing at 5.00 pm.

Wednesday: 10.15 - See my hero oncologist for results which I promise I'll post straight away.

Friday 16th: Having my wisdom tooth out - no jokes please...

Pray for me - swallowing is not fantastic so it might be growing again - let's hope not.

Thanks for checking in

Dave xxxx

Quick Update

Hiya All,

Had a fantastic weekend in France with my mates, brill weather, great company and lots of superb French meals. Thanks David & Adrian for being such wonderful mates and putting up with my inane ramblings!

I'm with Teresa at a business conference this week and then off for a weekend in Majorca which should be fun.

My scan is next Tuesday with results on Wednesday. I'm hoping for the best but my swallowing is not too good at the moment. We'll see and of course I'll blog straight away.

Thanks guys...

Hi All,

Once more thanks for checking in on me; it’s great to know that you care! We are doing really well at the moment; business is brisk for Teresa and I’m well.

I had a great fishing trip two weeks ago on a rough channel off Newhaven. Needless to say I caught only one fish! Actually I was quite relieved having watched the others desperately trying to get hooks out of slimly thrashing half dead fish. The boat was pitching and rolling and a couple of our compatriots parted company with their early morning fry up. All good fun. Thank goodness for travel sickness pills. Actually is was a great day; loads of fun and a first for me.

Teresa picked up her new car today, a long awaited Merc convertible (SLK), goodness knows she deserves it; she works so hard. Must admit even a ‘none car lover’ me enjoys driving it!

Last Sunday the Wootton youth group (XLR8) lead the harvest service. I was so proud of them. They planned the whole service and even preached. Young people get such a bad press but these guys are heroes. We are sponsoring Bedfordshire Young Person Of The Year (YOPEY) and this week I’ve lead two assemblies in local schools promoting the whole event. It culminates with a big award ceremony at Woburn Abbey in November with the Duke of Bedford. The whole idea is that young people who are excellent role models are revealed, recognised and rewarded.

I’m at Cliff this week for a MPhil tutorial and then to France on Thursday for a long weekend with my good mates David and Adrian who I went to Spain with earlier in the year. The week after we have a master’s conference followed by a few days Majorca visiting a friend and new franchisee. It’s all go!

I’ve stopped preaching on a Sunday but I am running a 7 week bible study at WNL on ‘A People Called Methodists’ and we’ve just started Youth Alpha with XLR8. So all in all I’m keeping busy.

Health’s OK, next scan is soon and I meet with the oncologist next on October 9th.

Well, think that’s about it for now,

Luv Dave

Brittany Pics

Me and Amy....

Amy & James

The Redfern Clan

My Grandfather's war Grave near Caen

Loubie......

My girls

My Florence....

The studly son....

Great Weekend

Hi all; had a fantastic (albeit) hectic weekend. We headed off to Derby on Saturday morning to drop the kids off at my mum and dad's before heading up to John & Amanda's hotel 'The Bear' near Belper in Derbyshire. At 4.00 they renewed their wedding vows in a lovely ceremony and then we had a great black tie evening 'do'. There was a brilliant comedian and musician followed by a hog roast and fantastic live band; we danced the night away. Found a great silver dickie bow to complement the dinner jacket and tie in the anniversary theme.

In the morning we headed down to Ambergate to visit my auntie and uncle who have a new camper van which we had a good explore of, then back to Derby for a lunch and a snooze in mum and dad's conservatory.

On Monday Teresa's mum and sisters Debs and Linsay joined us. We have lunch at the Bell (pub opposite our house) and then had a sunny afternoon on the boat. It was great to see them - we had a laugh and a drink or two.

I Met with Graham (our minister) yesterday afternoon to talk through the preaching issue. Feel relieved to have laid it down for now - I was getting increasingly stressed by it and to be honest running out of things to say! If I'm still clear next year I'll pick it up again. Graham was really gracious; all my appointments on this plan have been covered - I'm told not to worry!

Really looking forward to a mad sea fishing trip to Newhaven on Sunday with my mad mate David B and 'the boys'. Really don't 'do' fish so if you want any fresh fish on Monday just let me know!

Next scan is Oct 2nd with the results a week later - hope it will be OK. Should be!

Thanks for checking in.

Love

Dave

Back Home

Hi All,

Back home after a great month at our cottage in France; unbelievably we only had two days rain in over a month - surely a Brittany record? Amy and her husband were with us for the first week, then we had some time on our own followed by a week with my brother and his kids. All of it was brill - we also manage to re-furbish the bathroom and track down (no mean feat) a French carpet fitter for the bedrooms. Really looking forward to our next family holiday there in October and a mad weekend with my mates David & Adrian scheduled for later in September.

My health has been really good, no swallowing problems, no pain and no Swine Flu! Had my precautionary Tamiflu with me though. Seen the consultant at the BUPA hospital this week regarding a few post chemo side effects - all sorted now.

Made the decision in the last few days to lay down my preaching for a while. Started when I was 14 and never had a sabbatical so time for a break. Feeling a bit 'dry' spiritually at the moment - happy but 'dry'. Starting a 6 week teaching programme mid-week at WNL soon which I'm looking forward to preparing and delivering; it's the Sunday stuff I'm letting go for a while. Actually life is great in general, being a 'house husband' is fun - Chloe does the ironing though. I've spent this week doing DIY and gardening. Also had a great 'bloke's night out' on Wednesday in Market Harborough. Teresa has been grafting away at a Summer School which started the day after we got back, actually 11 hours after we got back. Hero woman!

Tomorrow Teresa and I are off to Derbyshire for our great friends John & Amanda Stamp's Silver wedding 'do'. Congratulations guys! They have always been there for us and we are so happy and privileged to be joining them on their special day.

Well, thanks for checking in after such a long break.

God Bless

Dave xx

HIYA!

Hi All,

Had a great time in Malaga with my mates; the sun shone, the pool was warm and the beer cold - perfect. Thanks to David And Adrian for inviting me and sharing their fantastic villa and apartment with us all. Did some painting whilst I was there; here's a pic of me next to a wall I whitewashed!

I was only going for four days but phoned my patient and long-suffering wife who gave me an extension for another two days - thanks darling. The villa was in a spectacular spot about 30 miles inland for Malaga - amazing mountains and hair raising roads. The weather was perfect; a steady 30C all the time with a nice breeze.

Since getting back things have been mad! I've been decorating (front-room) and helping Teresa prepare for a Kip McGrath induction course for new franchisees. We've just run this over the past three days (Fri - Sun) and so are ready to take tomorrow off.

Took the kids to see the latest Harry Potter tonight - the dullest film I have EVER seen - yawn...

Health-wise I've been great. What I was told was permanent damage to my pancreas from radiotherapy seems to have righted itself and I'm not needing to take the Creon Enzymes anymore. Thank-you Lord! Swallowing is fine and my appetite not too bad, my weight as settled at a healthy 12 stone. Got an appointment with a private surgeon on Tuesday evening re a small side effect of the chemo (no detail - too shy) but other than that I'm 100% well.

At this stage I am in month 19 having been given an average life expectancy of 9 months originally. Few people make it this far without surgery which of course I can't have (too late at diagnosis sadly). I am so grateful to the NHS, Macmillan Care, My church, friends and mega-wife the fantastic Teresa for all their support. Also to my mate David B for being such a great listener and wise counsellor. You are all heroes.

I've decided not to blog again now until the end of August; off to France in a few days for a month and the Internet connection is not too good. Check in with me again over the bank-holiday weekend.

Thanks guys

David

Lots To Tell You!

Hello faithful blog readers; got loads to tell you so brace yourselves for a monster blog today.

Firstly I got the results back of the blood tests and everything is fine, no diabetes which is really encouraging – seems as though the radiotherapy only damaged the ability of my pancreas to produce digestive enzymes not insulin. All other results were quite normal (they screened for everything); they could even tell I’d had a drink or two the day before on father’s day! My private medical insurance company have agreed to pick up the tab on some minor surgery I need to clear up yet another chemo/radiotherapy side effect so I’ll be off to their nearest hospital in Bury St Edmunds for a few days soon.

It was my birthday yesterday (27th 44 years old) and Teresa and I had a great couple of days on the boat on Thursday and Friday. Yep, after the previous week’s near sinking it was a bordering on a miracle that we took it anywhere but it was successfully craned out, pumped out, dried out and cleaned out (along with my wallet). We set off on Thursday heading up the river (towards the sea) to Buckden Marina. As the crow flies it’s only 15 miles or so but takes 10 hours on the gloriously winding River Great Ouse. We tackled 8 locks (each way) from the tiny ‘Roxton’ to the monster, scary and very deep ‘Castle Mill’. We moored at Buckden and then walked into the village for a night at ‘The Lion’ a 14th Century pub. The weather had been glorious all day, really hot and by the time we reached the hotel we were very tired – needless to say that despite the four-poster bed we were fast asleep by 9.15! Friday’s trip back to Bedford was far more eventful. There’s nothing like cruising through locks in torrential thunder storms. At least the rain was warm!

On Saturday Teresa was working so I headed down to the marina with the kids and spent a great day ‘pottering’. Now ‘pottering’ is code for cleaning, polishing and generally nerding around. Whilst I was ‘pottering’ the kids were being introduced to the delights of fishing by the kids on the next door boat. Carys actually caught four – quite the angler. Needless to say I bought them a ‘starter’ rod today. Must confess to being a little squeamish about the maggots. They stink. And wriggle. Yuck.

Today saw me in action on the church front twice. Most of the WNL congregation headed of to Boston to lead a ‘Wootton On Tour’ service. Those of us who were left celebrated the Lord’s Supper (communion) @ 9.00. Because all of our musicians were in Boston my limited guitar playing skills were called on to play. Straight after the 9.00 service I was preaching at Kempston East. The passage for this Sunday was Acts 12 where Peter is set free from prison by God; great passage and I really enjoyed preaching.

This afternoon we met James & Amy at the boat and had a great picnic on the Bedford Embankment. It was all fabulously English, picnic on a checked blanket, brass band, even a shower of rain; perfect!

This week sees me finishing off the decorating before heading off with Teresa (to carry the bags) on a business trip to Northern Ireland on Thursday. I’m looking forward to my bloke’s trip to Spain the following week.

Think that’s about all for now – have a great week.

God Bless

Dave

GREAT DAY (BUT WET FEET!)

Had a great appointment with the oncologist yesterday. I'm in the 5% that make it with this cancer to the 18 months point - BRILL! And (the most amazing thing) my next appointment is not until the 2nd October! The whole summer with no appointments, no treatment and HAIR! What could be better? Also when Teresa asked him if we could book our 25th wedding anniversary cruise for April 2011 he said 'go for it'!

What a mad journey. I give thanks to God for all His healing, to the NHS for all their care, to my friends for their support and of course to my wonderful wife and family for holding the bucket during chemo, mopping my brow as yet another camera was inserted down my throat, up my bum and even (yes) up my nose. Thanks guys.

On a realistic front the battle now is to ensure through healthy living, prayer, positive attitude and LOTS of holidays with family and friends (roll on Malaga) we keep what is still a malignant tumour in my oesophagus and not see it spreading elsewhere. I have been promised a CT scan and endoscopy whenever I feel like I need one so I need to keep myself alert for any changes, aches and pains.

WARNING: I hope to live very well and hopelessly expensively so the blog from this point onwards might not be for the fainthearted. Having a run in with the grim reaper is a great wake up call to enjoy yourself. Spent too many years with a big dollop of Protestant Evangelical guilt (yuck what a waste of energy) and that driven work ethic. No more. If you are our friends be prepared to be exhausted by partying!

The reference to 'damp' in the title of today's blog is I reference to the near sinking of my boat yesterday. We arrived at the marina to find a foot of dirty water in the cabin and all our boaty possessions floating and covered in slime. Got soaked feet paddling around rescuing things. My pride and joy looked VERY sad. Oh well, only a 'thing'. The great guys at the marina who were about to go home pumped it out and craned it onto the bank where the leak is being tracked down. Hopefully she'll be 'bunged up' cleaned out and afloat by Sunday - Father's Day.

Happy Birthday to Amy (my eldest) who is 21 today; have a great day. Also Chloe who is 23 today and gone off to Alton Towers with the Goodsons from church. Have a great day both of you we love you both very much.

Well think that's about all for now - I'll carry on blogging as you seem to want me too. Also, it sort of matters that the stories with happier endings are on the blog too. Too many blogs end with a final entry by a partner or friend that starts... 'Fred lost his courageous fight...', I know other cancer patients read this so I'll keep going. If you are facing the cancer fight too then some advice:

1. Stay positive and dump the negative friends ASAP (mentioning no names!)
2. Spend time with positive friends and if you haven't got any find some ASAP
3. Pray and if you don't; start ASAP,
4. Stop working if you can afford to (realise not all can)
5. Book some holidays!
   
   See you guys
   
   Luv ya
   
   David
   xxxxx

Still Good News....

Hi All,

Heard from the hospital today that although I've still got a malignant tumour it is not growing or spreading. The scan was no different to the last one. This is great news and is as good as it gets at this stage. I'm chuffed! Bloomin marvelous!

We had a great weekend in London, the Kip McGrath conference was really positive with loads of new announcements and products and we've come back all fired up. Fallen in love with Selfridges - especially the awesome pant department, can't beat those Calvins. Could have spent a fortune!!

Thanks to all those who have commented and encouraged me to keep blogging. I will; it sort of helps me. If you don't like it, don't read it!

Teresa is off to Wales for a few days and I'm at Cliff on Wednesday, need to catch up on my dissertation - seriously. Stopping over though probably won't get much sleep.

Once more thanks to all those who folow the blog, thanks to all @ WNL, family and friends especially Nick & Sarah and David B.

See ya soon

David

Sorry!

Sorry I haven't blogged for so long. Had a bit of a blogging crises of confidence. I’ve had a few negative comments about the style/content and have started feeling it was all getting a bit dull.

I have a full body CT scan on Thursday; if it’s clear (hope so) then I’ll almost certainly stop blogging. If it is negative then I’ll keep going to make sure everyone knows what’s happening. Getting the balance of my meds right is proving a little tricky, but when I get it right I’m really well at the moment. Swallowing is OK, digestion improved, no aches and pains. All good stuff.

On the news front we had a great holiday in France with fantastic weather. We did all the normal stuff and had some great afternoons on the beach. We’re back in August with Amy & James and my brother and his family. We headed back in time to lead the Pentecost service at Wootton New Life we then had a great evening on the boat. Since then I’ve demonstrated my appalling boating skills to my mate David who took his life in his hands on a boat trip with me at the helm. Had a great time introducing him to the delights of slimy locks, wet ropes and freezing in June.

Teresa and I are off to the annual Kip McGrath conference in London this weekend. We’re stopping in Central London so should have a few retail opportunities. The deal to buy the East Midlands Kip McGrath master franchise has now gone through (finally). Teresa is working so hard; I’m very proud of her. It’s not always easy with me not fully ‘in harness’. Amy working for us full time is really going well; she’s a hero!

In early July I’m off to Spain with some mates for a ‘blokey’ week in Malaga – should be fun. Never done anything quite like that before – feel quite gown-up but hope it will be a totally chilled immature week. He, he..

So guys thanks for checking up on me again. I’m doing well and prayerfully hopeful about Thursday’s scan.

See ya
David

Hi All,

Well in France now, we arrived on Saturday after a quick tour of Kip McGrath’s South West centres in Taunton, Exeter & Truro on Thursday & Friday.

Finally managed to get our French internet connection sorted after months of hassle; only ‘dial-up’ but at least I can blog now.

We’ve had great weather since we arrived, warm and sunny and been onto the beach twice – even managed a paddle though it was cold! Today is a bit greyer so it’s a ‘stop in and do jobs’ day; the forecast for tomorrow is good again so I think we’ll head down the coast to Carnac.

Health is OK. Managed to get the Creon dose right at last. Creon is the enzyme pill I have to take for the pancreas problem. I think it comes from pigs, oink, oink. Too higher dose leaves you with cramps, too lower dose with the runs. It’s trial and error but I think we are about right now. We are being VERY good, healthy eating and exercise and actually managed to get below 12 stone for the first time in years loosing the two stone of chemo (steroids) weight that piled on last year. Got to stay pos and feeling good about life! Sorry if I ever come accross as too smug!

It’s great to spend some time as a family; every time we come we are reminded of why we love Brittany so much and it is not just the wine (honest).

Thanks for checking in on us again.

See ya

David

Argh BT!!!!***

Been off-line, BT letting us down again - finally got it sorted!

Well had a great few days went up to Grantham & Lincoln and Grantham at the end of last week with Teresa on Kip business - I resisted the temptation to view the Margaret Thatcher memorial birth place museum - tempted but resisted; opted for stabbing a compass repeatedly into my leg instead as it struck me as more fun! Had a night in a nice hotel full of people having a week's holiday in Grantham (party animals) even the hotel's staff seemed bemused as to why??

On Saturday my mate David came over for the day, met Teresa and the children, walked the dog, had lunch, mucked about on the boat on the boat for a bit, had a laugh. In the evening the highlight of televisual year 'Eurovision Song Contest' I love it! What a FANTASTIC show, we even managed to come in the top 5 (albeit 5th). Moscow did a great job.

On Sunday morning I was preaching at our Clophill congregation, had a great time - this is a lovely welcoming church that is begining to see growth and renewal - it was a joy to lead them in worship.

In the afternoon we nipped to Next (as you do) and, having finally shed all that chemo induced weight I bought a new pair of 32" jeans - WOW. Mr Slinky pants returns. Seriously the medication leaves you bloated and fat and feeling better about myself is great. Keep positive = keep well. On that front I'm feeling fantastic at the moment, got a real bounce in my step. On Saturday went for a run around the country park and last night managed a bike ride with David B which has left me with stiff legs and an aching bum.

We are off to France on Friday, but going down the day before to do a few centre visits for Kip in South West first.

Well think that's about all for now... see ya troops

David

x

Fully Rested

Hi Troops

Just got back from retreat, had a FANTASTIC two days in the countryside around beautiful Launde Abbey. It's a wonderful place, very peaceful and relaxing. Spent the two days walking, talking (always a favourite of mine) and exploring how I feel about everything at this stage of the 'fight'. To be honest it doesn't feel much like a fight at the moment but may do as and when treatment starts again. Let's hope it never will.

I have actually returned feeling very content, very peaceful, very cared for by God, family and friends. I suppose that's what retreat is all about. Having retreated I'm ready to advance.

What have I learned?

1. That I am loved and how much I owe to those who love me.
2. That I've just got to live for the moment.
3. That life (even when it seem tough) can be full of wonderful moments.
4. That I feeling well, happy and content and so I have the resources for any future treatment.
5. That in the words of the song 'whatever will be will be'. This is not fatalistic, it is realistic. God's in control after all.
6. That I am created in God's image by him and he loves me the way I am.
7. On a lighter note that my new aftershave smells fantastic!

Thanks to those I spent time with around Launde and especially Ashley despite the scratched nose!

Health is good at present the 'Creon' seems to have solved the pancreas problem, swallowing is fine, next scan is due in three weeks. Keep praying the nasty stuff stays dormant.

Thanks for checking in on me again.

Luv

David x

Hope Springs Eternal

Well on Tuesday night (at the XLR8 youth group I help lead at church) we did a bible study on 'hope'. It's great to have 'hope' and life becomes hard work with it. There have only been a few moments during the past 18 months when I felt that hope had abandoned me and mainly whilst in a post chemo haze. Feel full of hope now, positive and looking forward to the summer. Got a real spring in my step and I'm looking forward to my retreat next week.

Over the past few days I've just been pottering in the garden and doing a few bits for Teresa at Kip. Last night we had a great evening last night on the boat with Amy & James and I cooked on a one burner gas stove. It was a cool night but with the heater on, some candles lit and a few G&Ts down our necks we were very cosy. Teresa and I spent the night at the marina and didn't wake up until the amazingly late hour (for us) of 9.30! What a pair of lazy slugabeds! Needless to say Teresa has worked all day despite it being her day off; she works so hard.

My garden resembles Kew and I'll try and post a few pics tomorrow, I love gardening and Chloe says that she can hear me humming the whole time I'm out there. It's VERY therapeutic.

Meeting a old work colleague at our Kip centre tomorrow who is in the process of setting her own centre up and then on Sunday we have our 'Sunday Supplement' church breakfast together followed by our 'All Age Service' - always a great morning. Hoping to boat on Sunday afternoon and then I'm off to rural Leicestershire on retreat for a few days. Probably won't blog whilst I'm away but will when I come back.

Have a great weekend.

God Bless

David

Great News: No Treatment For Now!

Hi All,

Great news; no treatment for now; BRILL! My oncologist feels that although the tumour is still there it is behaving itself and not growing so they'll leave it be - might only be a few thousand cells in actuality. Great news - really wasn't looking forward to more chemo and radiotherapy.

My digestive problems they feel are almost certainly down to a scar damaged oesophagus from the radiotherapy.They also think that there might be some permanent damage to my pancreas from the radiotherapy too. They've put me on yet another drug this time called 'Creon' which gives you the enzymes your mucked up pancreas can't.

Can't beleive I am this stage with no treatment and hardly any cancer. Seems as though God does answer prayer if we ever doubted it.

Thanks for checking in (again)

David
xx

Great Weekend

Hi Bloggettes,

Just had a great weekend (most of it spent afloat) so by definition it was great. On Friday Teresa travelled up to Cliff college with me for my tutorial, it took ages to get there through the mad bank holiday traffic!

After Teresa finished work on Saturday we spent the afternoon on the boat catching some rays. Chloe took Carys and James to Wickstead Park (nr Kettering) and in the evening we had a great BBQ - the first of the season with Amy & James F.

On Sunday Teresa and I bunked off church and took the boat down through three locks on the River Great Ouse to Great Barford. The weather was fabulous, the river quiet and we got a good spot right outside the Anchor pub where we had a great evening meal. Had a cosy night in the boat watching the DVD 'Australia'. Got a good night and awoke to tea and bacon butties. James, Carys, James F and Amy joined us at about 9.30 for the journey back. Sadly the weather was not so good on the journey home. It rained, well, it is a bank holiday. Arrived back at our home marina complete with the obligatory grazes, bumps, sun burnt face and green slime marks from the locks. PERFECT.

Got a three day retreat booked next week at Launde Abbey, actually Launde is full but I'm going to stop in a nearby hotel or pub and travel in as a day guest. Looking forward to some 'me' time, got a few things to work through, some issues to explore, some books to read.

I've got my oncologist' appointment at 11.30 tomorrow and should get my treatment schedule then. Not quite sure what will start when at this stage but I'll let you know tomorrow.Health remains OK - can't handle big meals or watching others eat once I finished but apart from that I'm in really good 'fettle'.

Best wishes to blogging friends Geoff (on Pilgrimage to the Holy Land) and David (off to Spain) - any room in your suitcases guys if I promise to behave?

Thanks for checking in again.

Have great week.

David

Update On a Mad Life

Hi guys; thanks for checking in.....

Thursday 23rd

I went on a jolly with Teresa to Bath on Thursday. We stopped in a great hotel in Bradford on Avon which is a really pretty village, a real tourist trap - can't believe we'd never been before.

Friday 24th

Teresa ran a regional meeting for Kip McGrath South West on Friday whilst I did a bit of sightseeing. Meanwhile (back in Bedford) the boat FINALLY got its newly painted bum back in the river.

Saturday 25th

Carys and I spent the morning cleaning the boat, we started off with soap and water, tried cif and ended up with neat bleach. She looked as good as new by the time we finished. We all headed off on our first cruise of the season in the afternoon.

Sunday 26th

Church in the morning and then lunch on the boat. We had another afternoon on the river and then a great evening with Nick & Sarah Hearn who had put together a great feast! Also they had bought me my own personalised bottle of Bell's. Now that's a gift!

Monday 27th

We spent a wet Monday training some colleagues from Kip McGrath.

Tuesday 28th

My hard-working wonder wife headed off to Wales this morning for some Kip centre meetings and I had to suffer guess where? Yep, on the boat! I did break off momentarily to help take the church youth group to Milton Keynes ten-pin-bowling. Spent the night at the boat which was cosy despite being woken up by a noisy and persistent goose at about 3.00 a.m.

Wednesday 29th

The river looked fantastic this morning, the sky was blue, the sun shone all was well with the world. I hit the office with Amy for a few hours before lunch in Milton Keynes with my mate David - nothing better than putting the world to rights! I took Carys swimming this evening before cooking dinner ready for Teresa's return.

Health

Great health-wise at the moment, swallowing is fine, no aches and pains. I have an appointment regarding the next course of treatment on Tuesday at the Bedford Primrose Unit. bring it on!

You guys are brilliant friends. Thanks for your prayers and care.

David

Derbyshire

Well, here I am in sunny Derbyshire at Cliff College for the day to change those well overdue library books and add another few thousand words to the dissertation. It's fantastic up here today, warm and sunny. Glad to be retired!

Yesterday I met up with my friend David for a leisurely lunch before running the church youth group in the evening. Tomorrow I'm going with Teresa to Bath where she has a regional meeting for Kip McGrath on Friday morning. As you can see I'm taking it really easy. Not.

Really frustrated that my old tug of a boat is STILL ON THE BANK! A boat was once described as 'a hole in the river you throw five pond notes into'. (Ponies are fed £5 notes Sian) Sun is shining, gin is cooling. Recent boat/drinking legislation which was to outlaw the practice of boozing and cruising applies to all boats 22'+. Mine is 21'6'' - Alleluia. It's only allowed to go 4MPH and the river is about 3 foot deep. Even the dog has her own life jacket. Floating gin palace in actuality but still on blocks. Time to shout (plead really) at the staff at Priory Marina.

Not a very good Methodist am I?

Oh well.

See ya

Dave

Weekend Stuff

Had a fun few days after Friday's good scan news.

On Friday after the hospital we shot up to St Ives (that's Cambs. not Cornwall) to the marina we bought our boat from last June. The previous owner had dropped some bits off that were in his garage which it has taken us a year to collect. The marina owners have been tripping over the stuff for 12 months. Boat really should be back in the water by the weekend after vast expense coughed up for an engine re-furb! The re-furb was nothing to do with me inadvertently putting 5 litres of water in the petrol tank last year or that the 4.3 litre inboard is built for water-skiing and we are only allowed to idle away at 4mph on the Great Ouse.

In the evening we took the kids to the pictures to see 'Race To Witch Mountain'. Good film - recommend it if you have kids.

On Saturday I took Carys to Rookery Farm at Stoke Bruerne, met up with my friend (another David) who was there with his daughters and cute granddaughter. Carys loved the animals, baby goats were wonderful. Much less hassle than a pony Sian.

On Sunday we had the day at Alton Towers which was brill. Did all the white knuckle rides Oblivion, Nemesis, Rita etc.. lovely weather which is just as well as we got soaked on the log flume and rapids. Afterwards mum and dad hosted a big family get together at their place where we all ate a fantastic tea (thanks mum!), drank my dad's scotch and put the world to rights. We also indulged in the obligatory boring of all disinterested parties by making them suffer our holiday photos; which everyone graciously endured. Camel, desert, beach, yawn etc.. We headed home this morning and have pottered about since on Kip stuff.

Think that just about sums up all that's been happening. Healthwise I'm feeling well, swallowing is great, feeling positive, going to be in that % that make it and continue to prove the stats wrong.

As always thanks for checking in; keep praying.

Luv

David

More Thoughts...

Actually thinking a little more about the great results and appointment earlier. Dr Bulusu (my oncologist) actually played down the endoscopies that had shown no evidence of malignancy last year. We thought that the previous results were good news and therefore the more recent negative endoscopy result was bad. He suggested that the difference between a neg and pos result can just be as simple as where the biopsy is taken or how deep they 'dig' for the sample. What he was saying is that the tumour hasn't 'come back' it never actually 'went away'. The amazing thing remains how it hasn't spread to anywhere else. I'm 18 months in and feeling great. They are really pleased with me. I'm going to be in 5% who make it you just see!

I'm retired now really - just pottering around a little bit with Teresa & Amy at Kip McGrath; aiming to keep the stress down and aid ongoing recovery. Keep praying guys!

David

CT Scan Results - Good

Hi All

Just got back from the hospital after the CT scan and results. Good news is that nothing has spread; it's still cancer and remains (and always will be) inoperable but none of the little areas of malignancy they found elsewhere in last year's tests have grown. Treatment will start again in two weeks, more chemo and radiotherapy to keep it in my oesophagus. It can't get better than this at this stage really so, all in all a good day!

I may be going for tracheal radiotherapy where the isotopes are delivered down the throat rather than from the outside. My oncologist is waiting to see some of the latest stats regarding this. He is concerned that I could end up a stricture (closure of the gullet). This would probably be in Southampton or Birmingham as it is not offered locally yet.

So off to enjoy the next couple of weeks before treatment starts again!

Thanks for checking in.

Dave

The Desert!

Hi Guys!

Just wanted to post a blog tonight (give Sir Redfern a break) Today we spent a few hours at a really nice beach and Spa hotel. I have no idea what the name of it was but I can gurentee you it sure was a luxurious one. Despite putting on factor 50 three times today I still managed to burn! The sun beams down and today I believe it was 36oC. Hot stuff.

Anyway...after we had enough of that we went back to the hotel to ready ourselves for our Sand-Dune Safari evening! WOW! Nothing can quite sum up that experience. It was just so fantastic! We went in these 4x4, that took you off into the Desert and they just put their foot down and you'd be thrown all over the car and as you can imagine it was a 4x4 it just flew over these massive dunes. At times it felt like some of the drops and climbs were vertical. Just SO scary but loved it!! I'm still buzzing.

After an hour we stopped off at one of the millions of  sand dunes and watched the sun set. There were 70 4x4 cars. No matter how far you looked the desert seemed to go on and on for miles and miles! Fantastic scenery. Better than what you see in movies! We ate out there too in a camp like place? There were camel rides -us young ones went on. Carys and I are 'tattooed' and I had a smoke too! (haha) It was a great day and nothing can sum up this experience. Wow-wow wee wa!

Tomorrow we plan to have a quieter day, it's David and Teresa's 23rd Wedding Anniversary tomorrow so they've planned a night out at the docks. (joke) they're off on a cruise tomorrow night. Not sure if David mentioned the apartment? For those who watch MTV cribs? It's better than what you get on there! x's 100! Gosh life is hard isn't it at times eh? 

Happy Easter everybody don't do anything we wont do!

Luv Chlo Chlo 

Pictures! 

The beach at the beach spa hotel

View from beach

The dare devils who took us on this Safari!

In the desert before we set off. 

Wild Wadi Water Splash-a-rama Kids Haven

Had a great day at Wild Wadi yesterday. Here's the famous Burj Al Arab hotel as seen from there...

Carys had a fight with a water shute. Ouch...

Great rides though and Carys is already looking less sore. She went straight back on the ride!

Dubai Marina - Where The Hotel Is!!

We are based in Dubai Marina - very posh!

Our Hotel

Not too handy with IT - sorry can't turn the pic round.. argh...

Dubai On The Way...

Hi guys from mad Dubai; we arrived early on Thursday after an overnight flight from Heathrow. Me in the Heathrow business lounge....

Nearly there....

Not Long To Go....

Well guys, had a busy old weekend; Amy and I handed out balloons in Bedford town centre to publicise Kip and then our great friends Nick and Sarah came round for a Chinese in the evening. It was an early start on Sunday as I hadn't finished prepping up the palm Sunday service and then Amy and James came and spent the evening with us.

Today with hit the shops in Milton Keynes for holiday shopping which was fun but very tiring! I'm not feeling too good at present, quite tired and dodgy tummy wise. On the hospital front my full scan is on Friday 17th with the results and consultation straight afterwards. We've got to hope it hasn't spread anywhere else; assuming it's still in my oesophagus the next course of treatment should start that same day.

We are really looking forward to Dubai; leaving here at about 4.00 pm on Thursday to go to Heathrow - we've saved our Emirates points up and are going business class but coming back economy. I'll try and blog my way through the trip!

God Bless everyone

Dave

The Little Blighter Is In My Lower Valve

First Things First

My Dear Blogettes....

Now Sian & Jackie. My one re-occurring nightmare (seriously) is where I own a horse that I keep forgetting about. I remember after 3/4weeks and go to the stable to find it thin, fly blown and covered in horsey poo. I clean it, feed it and then forget about it again for another three weeks when the whole nightmare occurs. Argh.... I love Carys but not enough to buy a horse. Why, when Sian has one we can 'borrow'???

Now onto things a lot less scary than horses: cancer. Had yet another meeting with the oncologist today. On the whole it went well. Here's the basic gist:

1. They are VERY surprised it's taken this long to come back, the fact it's come back now is actually surprisingly good news: it should have re-occurred long before now.
2. They are not sure if it is a new tumour or or old stuff that's grown, come to the surface and re-appeared.
3. There's lots they can do as I'm effectively back to where I was in January 2008.
4. I can have more radiotherapy (big surprise) including some new stuff they do from the inside as opposed to firing it at you from outside.
5. I have a fully body CT scan on April 17th. The issue is; has it spread or not? If it has then the radiotherapy won't happen. The most likely spread is to my liver. They have made me an appointment an hour after the scan on the 17th. for the results so no weeks of waiting this time!
6. Dr Bulusu (my oncologist) is going to try and get me some further treatments that are 'off piste' including some new anti body treatment. Some of these I might have to pay for.
7. There is no approved treatment for re-occurring esophageal cancer because until recently you just died from it. I'm going to be a Guinea Pig.
8. On the whole they were much more positive and upbeat then we'd anticipated. Brill!
9. Dave lives to fight another day!!
10. They checked out my abdomen as I've had the squits for weeks and they think it's just a bug.
11. I can go to Dubai!

And oh! My boat is going back into the water next week! Bottom has been scraped and anti-fowled and the engine totally refurbished at a nose bleeding level of expense. We are ready to cruise! And you know how I love to cruise! Wondering! If I can add any more exclamation marks to a blog!!!

By the way if you want to know what appeared on the Google search list when (worried about the strange colour of my squits) I typed 'orange faeces' in the search engine e mail me at peaktandd@aol.com and (assuming I consider you able to cope) I will email back and let you know! Christians be warned; it's VERY funny but well dodgy!!

This morning (and tomorrow too) I had the privilege of taking an assembly on the subject 'What's Easter All About' at a local senior school. Had a 'congregation' of 600!! They were brill; very well behaved and 100% attentive. Wish the average Methodist congregation was the same.

Well guys must sign off now and pour myself a scotch.

If you are breaking up for Easter this weekend have a good holiday. If you're off to Spring Harvest have a great time and all the best to my mate Geoff whose speaking there this year.

God Bless All!

Dave.

Thursday It Is!

Hi All

Well my oncologist and Macmillan nurse are back from their travels today and I'm booked into see them on Thursday @ 4.00 p.m.. Seems like a million years away but I know that it's not really! Obviously I remain quite anxious - must keep busy! I have a Kip Seminar tonight, some training design to complete for Teresa tomorrow and a day at Cliff College on Wednesday so I'm sure time will fly.

Church was refreshing on Sunday - Teresa and I are leading and preaching next Sunday. We are celebrating Passover at XLR8 on Tuesday.

Only a week to go until Dubai - getting excited and certainly going regardless of when the chemo starts again.

Jackie - sorry to hear about your loss; our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Thanks as always for checking in on me and caring.

God Bless

Dave

Coming To Terms - It's A Notso Bad!

Well my friends slowly coming to terms with the thought of facing the battle again. Some facts:

1. I was only given 9-12 months (on average) to live last January and here I am in month 15.
2. I have had a number of scans since where they could find nothing - Praise God!
3. I am feeling quite well, no pain, can still swallow and the miseries are lifting.
4. I am generally fit so in a good place to fight.
5. We are doing OK so don't have to worry about finances, jobs etc. (like so many do - bless em).
6. I have the support of a fantastic wife, great family and wonderful church at WNL.
7. The worse that can happen for a Christian is complete victory. Seriously death holds NO fear whatsoever. By the way I have no intention of croaking it just yet but of course I've thought about it. We sing a song at Church which goes like this... There's a place where the streets shine with the glory of the lamb, there's a way we can go there we can live beyond time... no more pain, so more suffering, no more sadness, no more tears, no more sin, no more sickness, no injustice no more death, because of YOU (meaning Jesus of course!).

So, as the song goes 'always look on the bright side of life' - off for a full Ulster Fry Up (breakfast) and certainly a pint or two of Guinness.

What out Derry; here we come!!

Luv

Dave

Tour De Eire!

Well we landed in Cork on Tuesday, drove to Killarney on Wednesday and then up to Galway and today all the way from Galway to Londonderry. WOW; what fantastic scenery on the west cost; mountains, valleys and surf! We have driven through rain, hail, sleet and sun and enjoyed five rainbows along the way. The rainbow is a great reminder of a God who keeps His promises.

I'm beginning to get everything into perspective now - keen to get the chemo underway ASAP and keep the blighter in my oesophagus and nowhere else. It's not easy thinking about starting again but, life is worth fighting for. I'm not sure if it is psycological or not but I'm not feeling too good at present very 'tight' in the chest depratment. Got to see my oncologist on Monday if I have to wait all day!!

Thank-you to those who have posted comments (Sian, Jackie, Jane) and all those who would if they could work out how to!

We are heading back on Saturday after a regional meeting for Ulster.

Well guys.. thanks again. Trying to keep positive.

Luv

Dave

Oh !##***!!!***~ & BLAST....

Thanks Amy for updating everyone earlier....

Yep guys, there's a new, fresh and horrible looking viscous little sod of a white speckled tumour in my oesophagus - at least I can see the little bugger (on the endoscopy pic) and so my visualisation techniques can be based on reality. They are not sure if it's totally new or an old 'patch' they missed before but whatever it is certainly growing (for the first time) and malignant. Not good. However, you know me Mr Positive Pants (actually fine new ridiculously expensive Calvin Klein pants) and 'better the devil you know'. At least there can be a focus to the fight now. We are, in reality back to square one. In essence we face battle # 2 and I'm up for the fight - bring it on your miserable bitch! OK, rant over - needs loads of prayer from my Christian brothers and sisters and any other incantations, positive energy and good vibes from those of other faiths and non. Please.

This is the first negative news since my healing in Stockholm last April which was nearly 12 months ago. Baring in mind the original prognosis of 9-12 months (on average) this is in actuality quite positive.

I knew it was back. Just read my last few blogs. Why? Well physical changes as my swallowing got worse and (as with the first time) psychological changes, yep I just got depressed - I suppose as body chemicals screwed up the balance in my brain. I am reassured that the Lord cares and is with me. I have no doubt about that! Not looking forward to more chemo; apart from anything else I had grown quite fond of my hair again. I will, of course take any treatment I'm offered no matter how ill it makes me feel (and trust me it does).

On a serious note (there are few things more serious than holidays) as we are in Dubai for Easter so our cottage in Brittany is available (for free apart from a clean and a lawn mow) for any regular blog reader we know. We might go for the final weekend of the Easter holidays but it is available for the week before Easter and the Easter weekend itself. We love to bless by letting people use 'Ty Carys' for free so just let us know. We can book you a ferry on our Property Owners card for a little bit less than it will cost you normally.

We arrived in Ireland on Tuesday flying into Cork and stopped there last night. We visited a Kip McGrath centre there this morning and then drove to Killarney for another visit. Then... on to Galway. Mad itinerary but fantastic countryside, good food and great service in the hotels. Tomorrow after a Galway visit we have to drive to Derry in Northern Ireland. We have centre visits in Derry on Friday and a regional meeting for Northern Ireland on Saturday before flying back.

Some mad things I want to do..... see a live performance of Handel's Messiah in London, dance till the early hours, create the perfect garden, spend a lot of time on Rachel Louise (my boat in case you were wondering) and go to the cottage in France a lot. Also really looking forward to Dubai; we go two weeks today.

OK guys. Think that's all. Keep praying and crossing any body part you've got (where that's possible).

Want to thank Sian, Chloe and Geoff H as well as Nick & Sarah, John & Amanda, everyone at WNL and my family for their ongoing support. Of course Teresa (AKA Florence) is my #1 supporter, nurse, companion and hero!

See you guys, God Bless - thanks for being there for me.

Luv

Dave

Bad News

Hi Everyone.

Dad is away this week in Ireland with KipMcGrath so he's asked me to give a breif update.
Yesterday Mum and Dad went to have a consultation with the doctor after his endoscopy showed up some tissue that they took a biopsy of last week. Unfortunately it's bad news. The tissue is infact the tumor back again. It is Maligant which obviously is a bit if a blow and very disappointing.

Not sure yet about the treatment and where to go from here until they've had a few more appointments with the oncologist and nurse etc but its not looking good.

But as always my wonderful pops is very positive and is looking up and I know that he will just continue to be an amazing witness to everyone , not only of healing but of his strength and positivity.

Please continue to pray for us as I know you all do, especially to stay strong in the second round. Bring it on!

Dad will post tonight and go into more detail if he can.

Love to all
Amy

WARNING.... God at work....

OK. God had felt a little distant recently. Not in a worrying way, just in a classic 'journey of faith way'. You know (or perhaps you don't), sometimes His presence is with you tangibly 24/7 sometimes you just feel as though He's around but busy on 'other business'. I know that this is theological nonsense, God is omnipresent (everywhere) and omnipotent (all powerful) so it's me that's moved away from God not the other way round. Any way God has been intervening in my life in wonderful gentle ways over the last couple of days. If you don't believe in an interventionist God you are quite simply wrong. Sorry but there we go. Wise up! Let me share....
I was preaching at a church in our Methodist Circuit on Sunday the church is nearly 100% Asian and always a pleasure to visit. The lead steward (elder) came to me after the service and with tears pouring down his face told me that he was convinced of my healing. Now this is is not an unusual thing to be told by well meaning charismatic Christians but his 'assurance' came with a prophecy or word of knowledge. He said I would survive so that I could finish what my Grandfather couldn't do. My Grandfather was a committed christian and planning to go to Cliff College (the bible college I attend) after the war. He was killed a few days after 'D' day and is buried in Normandy. I don't recall talking about this at this particular church. If I have then it was still a timely reminder of God's faithfulness throughout the generations.

Second bizarre experience was this morning. I ran out of some of my tablets and needed to go and get some more from the GP. As I was entering the surgery a couple of carers were bringing in a severely disabled lad (about 16) he was quite vocal and shouting. He beckoned me over to him and quite strangely placed his hand right over my oesophagus and looked me straight in the eyes. He carers apologised, I explain my health problems, they were freaked out. They said that he often 'knew' about these things. I felt strangely re-assured and peaceful.

I am nervous about tomorrow, very stressed in fact. I've sort of convinced myself that it's back. I want to lecture myself about faith and positive mental attitude but sort of feel a lack of both at the moment. Can't believe that it is as simple as that and feel the need to be honest at least though the blog. I'm looking forward to being proved wrong.

Jade's death is sobering. At diagnosis I would have been overjoyed to have the life expectancy they gave her; mine's never been 40%. Her struggle was so public. I suppose seeing a public figure, young with everything to live for loose their battle just makes you think. Eekkk...

I'll blog with the news tomorrow. We'll be in Ireland by then. I'll keep posting as we travel around the Emerald isle on Kip McGrath business.

Sorry if I've been a bit 'heavy'. Stick in there with me won't you?

Dave

Paranoid Android

OK Guys

Tell me I'm paranoid! I phoned my Upper GI nurse on Friday to see if had results. She said not (I've no real reason to doubt her) but she has booked me in to see the Upper GI consultant on Tuesday at 11.00. Just feels ominous. She sounded 'down'. I'm worried. Normally she would give me results over the phone and to be fair both she and my oncologist are away next week but still??

Any hows - I'm being paranoid aren't I???

Dave

Sedation Snoooooooooze....

Hi Guys

Well, the sedation worked this time and I slept soundly through the whole endoscope thing. They got the camera past my oesophagus and into my stomach which is a good sign. They did find a 'patch' which they weren't too happy with and have taken yet another biopsy. Hoping it is just radiation burn and nothing nastier. The waiting for results is a killer.

Went to Brighton yesterday on Kip business; it was packed. The beach was full of people and it was really warm - can it only be March? Off to Glasgow tomorrow to run a seminar. It's good to keep busy if you're waiting for news! If the news is bad I'm retiring - seriously I couldn't work through chemo. Hopefully all will be well. Might get the results tomorrow, if not it will be next week when I'm off to Ireland (Republic and North) with Teresa. Keep praying for me.

I'm leading the youth group (as a guest speaker) at Lidlington Church tonight; they are our sister church in the next village to Wootton. I'm preaching at Southend Methodist in Bedford on Sunday morning.

I'll post again as soon as I have news.

Dave

Thought For The Day

My blogs are like buses. None for ages, then a glut! Any-how isn't spring just fantastic, can't tell you how wonderful it see my second since that bloody diagnosis. Here's to many more to come!

I've got a few business trips this week I'm in Brighton on Wednesday and Glasgow on Friday other than that things are quite quiet. Going to take the train to Brighton and the plane to Glasgow - international traveller me. Nervous about tomorrow's test but I'm sure it will be OK!

My blog entitled 'Getting There' where I ramble on in support of my wife made her very nervous. She was worried that those I was writing about would read it. Well, I name no names ,but if the cap fits ......

Got thinking about friends today and how grateful Teresa and I have been for the support of everyone at WNL, to Sarah & Nick and John & Amanda. Thanks for standing with us through the good moments and the tricky. John is especially faithful having encountered me at my worse made even worse by some booze. Not a moment I'm proud of! Who actually won the fight? You'll be pleased to know mate that I'm much more held together now. Honest. No really I am!! Real friends stick with you don't they! Thanks guys.

Well better get a bit of work done.

Luv

Dave xx

And I Think to Myself - What A Wonderful Day

Bunked off church today! I confess the lure of the garden was simply too much. It now looks like Kew. Perfect. We had lunch at the Bell (pub opposite our house) and snoozed away the afternoon. Even managed to clean out the dreaded goldfish tank - my life is complete!!

Weather was impossibly lovely; really warm had a glass of wine on the deck.

I'll keep you updated on the Tuesday 'camera down the throat' job.

See ya

Dave

Getting There

Hi All,

Feeling much better this week; positive brain chemicals have kicked in again (thank goodness!). I have the endoscopy on Tuesday afternoon - I always have the sedation because I'm a wuss. I'll let you know how it goes. Swallowing is unchanged - worse than it once was but better than it was it was originally! Keep praying; it works.

Teresa is running around the country like a mad-women; she works so hard......she cares passionately about what she does and suffers more than her fair share of narked people having a go. Not quite sure why they feel the need to take their frustrations out so negatively on her. It's not the frustrations that are the problem (they come with the territory) it's the manner in which are they are delivered. The sad thing is that she is 100% genuine in her desire to help others make a go of their business as we have ours. She really is a tough cookie. During the past year she has built the business, been promoted into a national role, been a great mum, organised a wonderful wedding and nursed a terminally ill husband. Nothing scares her or daunts her and I'm so proud of all she is and does!

Amy (our eldest daughter) is a real hero too (chip off her mum's block) and has helped us tremendously since she has been on our full-time staff. In fact all our staff are great - thanks to you for all your support and care.

Spring really is in the air isn't it? Had my hedges trimmed yesterday. Resisting the temptation to say that I had my bush trimmed as it's only just started growing again! Lawn gets it first mow today; the garden centre beckons. I'm not preaching this Sunday so we'll be a WNL as a family in the morning and then in the garden in the afternoon as the forecast is so good. Might even get Rachel Louise (my boat) back in the river soon - they are overhauling the engine as the moment and she's had her bottom scraped.

Well guys, once more thanks for checking up on me - it's great to know that so many people are thinking of us.

If anyone is at loose end this Sunday morning come and join us at Wootton - great Church; no one sings like Methodists! Directions at http://www.newlifechurchwootton.org.uk/.

Well guys signing off now.

Luv

Dave

Spring Has Sprung!

WOW - the sun actually feels warm! Just taken Rosie (the dog) around the lake and it really feels like spring; at last!

Feeling quite 'strange' still, swallowing remains a bit 'sticky'. Trying to stay pos but it has not been a good week on that front to be honest. Cup seems to be half empty at the moment - not like me at all!

Not a lot more to report.

Luv

Dave

UPDATE

Hi Troops,

Last week was a bit 'mad' - had a few Kip trips including Aylesbury, Dublin & Leeds. Also had a tutorial with my Cliff supervisor for the MPhil. Preached twice on Sunday too. In the morning the subject was Noah and in the evening (at the Refresh meeting) I spoke on building Church today (pet theme of mine). It is great to see Refresh growing, a few years ago we were getting a handful but now with our friends from Marston Vale Community Church and Liddlington we gather a really good number - great worship lead by Suzy and Dave at both services - thanks!

Feel a bit 'odd' at the moment. Swallowing is not good and I'm struggling (for once) to stay positive. I have an endoscopy booked but not until the 17th March although I am on the short-list for cancellations. My chest just feels strange - could be psychosomatic; could just be radiation damage, hopefully nothing worse! Of course I'll keep you in the loop.

In a bid to continue enjoying life we've booked a week in Dubai at Easter - love the place. It is hedonistic, shallow and tacky. Perfect for a holiday! Seriously need some sun and shopping therapy on a constant basis and Dubai is just the ticket - Carys and James are getting excited - we are going to 'swim with Dolphins', go on the sunset dune safari and visit all those enormous temples to decadence - the designer malls! Got to both diet a little before we go!!

Have a thanksgiving service to attend this afternoon for Alan Ponting, a friend from Church (and previous minister at WNL). He had been battling with a horrible, degenerative brain disease and passed away two weeks ago. He and his wife Pat were so brave. I had the privilege of leading a communion service with him at our Launde Abbey retreat weekend two years ago - he was a wonderful man - a real gracious saint; we shall miss him.

Please keep the prayers up and, if you not a prayer person I'll take all the positive vibes you can spare in my direction! Thank-you for checking in.

Luv

Dave

Brain Fry!!!!

Oh my; so much to tell you!!!

Good meeting at the hospice - very helpful Dr Macnamara.

Firstly; I'm not normal. No laughing. No comments. No 'you're telling me' comments. In cancer terms I have an unusual cancer, at an unusual time of life, I have had an unusual course of treatment to which I responded unusually well. I told you I was unusual. There are no statistics for people like me.

Things we learnt today:

1. I am slap bang in the middle of the highest risk of recurrence. Most cancers that reoccur do so 3-6 months after treatment ends. I'm in month 3 - 'breath holding time'. Time to put my feet up!
2. If it does come back I'd be a gonner. They could not give me any more radiotherapy and the chemo would only be palliative; I'd only have a few months.
3. I am technically in remission. It was described as 'radiological remission'. This is the first time the 'r' word has been used. Nice; I like the 'r' word.
4. There is a slim chance I'm cured. Very slim. Like 1% slim but it is possible - just!
5. The longer I'll live the longer I'll live. Seriously, the longer I live the greater are the chances I'll live longer. Your life expectancy after 2 years is greater than after 1.

Think that's all for now! Mixed news but not all bad.

Luv

Dave