October 22, 2008

Dear Friends,
We had a really hard day yesterday. We saw Dr. Suh and after he listened to how Joe has been for the last two weeks and examined him, he said no more chemo and he suggested hospice when we return from Bonaire. I had already thought of that but it came as a shock to Joe. Our pastor Earl and his wife Pat came over last night and we talked and cried and just tried to come to grips with the fact that the fight is almost over. I think there is some relief in knowing no more treatments and doctor visits. We have had a wonderful trip on this cancer journey and it isn't over yet but we are thankful that there has been very little pain in the process and we have been able to do so much with all the time we have had. We know this is all in God's plan and I hope we can see the time Joe has left as a real gift to spend time with loved ones and get ready to see Jesus.
We still plan on going to Bonaire tomorrow with our dear friends Ed and Jayne. The travel day will be long but we have arranged for a wheel chair at the airports and if Joe can just sleep he will be happy. Please pray for us that the trip will be free of complications and that we will use the time wisely - grateful to God for all his blessings and strength to finish this journey with peace and confidence that his timing is always perfect. Take care and God Bless you all. Mary Anne