2016

Recently, I posted two entries and mysteriously, they are no longer viewable.  Maybe something I did or did not do; regardless, reminds me of my days of late.  2016 came in calmly enough, but also presented us with the challenge of radiation and chemo treatments for David.  I am hoping the cancer will resemble the entries... no longer viewable when testing time rolls around.  Caused by the HPV virus, the cancer at the base of his tongue has been removed as well as three lymph nodes in his neck. The care and compassion shown to us during this ordeal is commendable.  Initially, I was in doubt of how this would go, as I had witnessed the lack of it with my Mother and Father in their last days.  Thinking it may have been due to their age, I was concerned that David's 76 years would be a factor in the concern shown but I am happy to report the professionals at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Mo. have been exceptional in their relationship with both of us.  This brings us to the power of prayer.

Prayers have been instrumental as exceptionally supportive friends stepped up to do some of the daily driving into Springfield and drop by to visit and most of all the incredible sense of peace and confidence that surrounded us.  When we are able to put our problems in God's hands, amazing things happen.  David is healing at a surprising rate and while his energy level is low, he is optimistic and already planning his next project. 

Sometime back, I put my son on our church prayer list.  My prayer was specific, "please Father, put a person or persons in his path to help him find his way back from an extremely difficult situation."  As time has passed, I am happy to say a person appeared and he has been finding his way back ever since.  Again, it is not amazing as some may think.  For me it is as it should be.  The answer is not always what I thought I wanted, but it is always the best answer for the situation.  Again, hindsight is twenty-twenty! Life is short, a little help comes in the form of answered prayers....if you just ask.  

The mask is part of the radiation .....when finished, the mask goes home with the patient.  Courage Unmasked is a one of a kind show displaying the beauty of artistry when the mask is used as the foundation for a work of art.  From illness to health.....now visible.