Worth a Kidney Stone

We were at our mission’s conference last week from Tuesday to Sunday (June 8-13) so it was a little strange going to and back there from the hospital on Friday (June 11). When Eric received his 7th round of chemo, we requested again for a quicker administration so we could get back in time for supper. We got there in plenty of time and Eric soon joined the Teens’ BBQ by the pool and he was soon swimming!

He continues to amaze us with the strength and energy that truly comes from within him! It is God given. The next day, he spent plenty of time sleeping but when the ‘teens’ all nighter’ began; he was again up and about! The Lord also amazes in that what is fun for Eric is certainly fun for Him too! He gives it His stamp of approval by what He allows to happen.

I should add that Eric decided at this point not to take any medication (steroids) for the chemo’s side effects. He did well with all the distractions of activities over the week-end but by today, Monday, he’s had a lot more stomach pain. This is entirely Eric’s choosing, not to take the meds. It’s hard to even imagine receiving chemo without the help of the meds to deal with the side effects. Eric’s always taken them before although he’s been requesting less and less of it the more he received his rounds of chemo. He started with needing to take 16 pills twice a day (for 2 days) when he received his first round of chemo. This is followed by half the dosage for 2 more days (8 pills twice a day). By the 6th round, he only wanted to take 4 pills twice a day and we’ve had to argue about him taking it! On Friday, the doctor indicated that it was optional so he decided that he didn’t want any of them. That he’s made it this far is God’s grace!

The other great thing that happened is that we saw friends (Eric’s former teacher and his wife) at the hospital while waiting for the doctor. We were supposed to have supper with them earlier in the week since they were leaving Thailand for good. They canceled since Eric’s former teacher wasn’t well. What a pleasant surprise that we were able to visit at the hospital anyway! Eric’s teacher also graciously said that seeing us and Eric at the hospital (one more time) before they left was “worth a kidney stone” that had to be removed from him surgically!

What an Amazing God we have! Thank you for praying.

Hair to Nothingness

I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart;
I will tell of all your wonders.
I will be glad and rejoice in you;
I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.
Psalm 9:1-2

I (Linda) remember distinctly when we found out in March that Eric had Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and would require chemo treatments. We prayed as a family and asked for the Lord to have mercy and have him at least finish his Grade 11 school year. Back then, we didn’t know how many days of school he’d miss because of his treatments and how it’ll affect his studies, especially his AP Stats (a college level Statistics class). Well, the school year ended on June 1st and Eric missed a total of 4-1/2 days, just the days when he was at the hospital! (Thankfully, two treatments were received during the two week April break.) As you may already know, Eric also made it to all of his year end gatherings (Agape Orphanage Party, Art Show, Choir Concert, AP Stats bowling trip), including the Junior/Senior Grad Dance.

Back then, I was concerned that his studies would be affected and that he wouldn’t make it through the school year. I thought if he did finish, his grades would reflect less than desirable grades. Last week, except for one course, his report card showed him acing all his courses (including AP Stats!). How that happened has a lot to do with Eric's ability and diligence but those alone aren't enough! We know it is the Lord’s grace and wonder. We are (grateful and) glad and rejoice in Him!

Two days ago, he cut his hair to nothingness – which is how he posted it on Facebook. We are going away on a six-day conference today where he’d do some swimming so Eric felt that wearing a super short hairdo would be better than his almost-normal-but-thin-on-the-top look. He’d rather not have a photo taken so I took a picture of Eli instead who’s also decided to go short. His hair used to be super looong. It’s also worth noting that Eric’s friend already shaved his head last week and another one will shave his (after his sister’s wedding is over) next week. They’re apparently doing it for Eric and their gesture has warmed my heart. I’m sure it’s why Eric found it easier to do what he did. We sing praise to your name, O Most High. You are so kind and good. Thanks again for praying for us. Eric will receive his 7th round of chemo treatment this Friday, June 11th.

Below are our prayer requests once again. Bless you. =)

1. That the Lord constantly be glorified in Eric’s circumstances.
2. Regardless of what we want, that His will, will happen, and not ours
3. That we rely solely on God and are unified as a family.
4. That Eric will be prepared physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, for what’s in store for him.
5. That we trust the Lord completely no matter what happens to Eric.

Gracious Miracles

My soul proclaims your greatness Lord
Rejoicing in my Savior
Your mercy belongs to those who fear your son
His blessing you have given them forever
Holy is His name!

From the song “Great Things” by Matt Maher

As I listened again to my phone which was randomly playing music, the lines above played next after the song called “Miracle” by a Thai group. I (Linda) was just thinking it in my head that it was a miracle that I was paying the hospital just after 2 p.m. for Eric’s chemo treatment. Last Friday was the 6th time Eric received his chemo and it was also the day of his school’s year end choir concert. The day before, his choir teacher and class prayed for him to make it to his concert but we knew a miracle had to take place for it to happen. After his previous treatments, we’ve often left the hospital after 7 p.m. How could he possibly make it to a 4 p.m. concert? Secondly, Eric is often completely exhausted as we pull out of the hospital. How will he have the energy to sing?

But for God, none of the string of miracles below would have happened. Dr. Rattiya examined him as usual but we requested that she let the nurses know that we were in a hurry that day so Eric could make it to his concert. She agreed and wrote the nurses a note to that effect. (Please pray for blessings for Dr. Rattiya and for her to know the Lord as her savior.)

The next few hours were a sight to behold as nurses came in and out of Eric’s room. Each one proclaimed that Eric was going to a concert that afternoon. Each one did her task efficiently and quickly. Sometimes, (a first!) two would be doing their tasks at the same time. Nurse Kloy was there waiting to change the chemo (4 types) that needed to go into Eric’s IV before any of them were finished. To say the least, the nurses that day worked like clockwork! By 2 p.m., all we had to do was wait for an hour for Eric’s last chemo to finish dripping into him. The first miracle happened! We could actually leave as soon as the dripping chemo stopped around 3 p.m. Nurse Kloy used to go to a Christian university here in Chiang Mai. She said she used to go to chapel then and hear about God. I told her the Lord allowed Eric to be sick so that we would be there to meet her and talk to her about the God who loves her and misses her. She teared up and allowed for me to pray for her. (Please pray that the Lord would succeed in calling her back to Himself.)

By 3:30, I decided to wake Eric up. I figured that if he could shower in 10 minutes, we could leave before 4 p.m. and make it late for the concert but be there in time for his choir to sing. It took him a loooong time to finally get up. When he did, it seemed like he took his time to get ready and he was even singing in the shower! Meanwhile, I was pacing outside the bathroom door waiting to go! By the grace of God, we made the speedy drive from hospital to school just in time for him to join his group during their second song, “Pie Jesu” by Andrew Lloyd Webber. It means ‘merciful Jesus’ or ‘Jesus, have mercy’. Indeed, Jesus had shown mercy as Eric was welcomed on the stage to the applause of the crowd. He then sang with his choir for the rest of their performance, the second miracle.

On Saturday morning, he was able to go to the orphanage that he’s been visiting with his class, to attend their last get together of the year. By Monday morning, he was celebrating the end of the school year with his AP Stats class by playing bowling. While I wondered if he would have the energy to finish all three games, the Lord had seen fit to help him not just finish all games, but have the last three balls Eric bowled to be strikes (a sweet turkey miracle)! It’s no wonder that by Monday night, Eric was dancing once again. What an amazing God we have! His blessings, He has given us.

Thank you for praying. =)

Psalm 116

Aside from a couple of nose bleeds and vein pain on his left wrist where the chemo has been going in, Eric has been feeling well following his 5th round of chemo. We continue to rejoice that he is doing so well with his treatment. The Lord is so good and so kind to him, to us. As Eric's parents, the Lord and His love through His people have been overwhelming us. We've been in awe of what people have done for us. So, I, Linda, didn't think much more will touch me. I was wrong. Yesterday after church, Eric shared that he had teared up after reading Psalm 116, especially verse 12. He said the verses applied specifically to his situation. Please read it and thank the Lord with us. He is just too good as He now works on Eric’s heart.

I love the Lord, for He heard my voice; He heard my cry for mercy. Because He turned his ear to me, I will call on Him as long as I live. The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came upon me; I was overcome by trouble and sorrow.

Then I called on the name of the Lord: “O Lord, save me!”
The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.
The Lord protects the simplehearted; when I was in great need, He saved me.

Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the Lord has been good to you. For you, O Lord, have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before the Lord in the land of the living.

How can I repay the Lord for all His goodness to me? (verse 12)

Thank you for praying!

King of Wonders

Your glory shines before our eyes,
the more we see, the more we love You.
King of wonders, we stand amazed,
there's no other, other than You,
King of wonders, You know the way to our hearts
and the more we see, the more we love You.

from the song "King of Wonders" by various artists

Last Friday, May 14, Eric received his 5th chemo treatment. Only three left and he will be done! =) The day started out like all the other times we’ve been to the hospital for Eric’s treatments. His weight and blood pressure were checked. Next, blood was drawn out from him to check his blood count, etc., (His white blood count was slightly lower than the last time but it was still okay to proceed with the treatment.) and there ended the norm as we knew it. We then were made to wait for over 2 hours before we got to see the doctor! Eventually, Eric was examined and declared doing remarkably well. His doctor continues to marvel at his resilience.

After checking-in into his room for the day, we waited for another unexplained two hours before the first of four chemicals were administered. The last chemo is a two hour drip so we thought we’d be there till late at night but we were soon ready to go home by 8 p.m., just 3 hours later than the last time. Yay!

Eric fell asleep on the drive home, moved to his bed when we got home, and didn’t wake up till late morning the next day. On Saturday night, his friend was over for a visit so he was up but he slept most of the week-end. And oh yeah, he also had the energy to beat his mom in several games of Boggle. By Monday, he was back to school and even hung around during, and after the Art Show (to clean up), which was from 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Where Eric gets his energy and strength when he needs it can only be attributed to God. There is no way to explain it. That he has hair, feels well, looks well, and does well is purely God's doing. We just wonder sometimes and we do stand amazed. But, the more we see what God does, the more we love Him. We are so grateful for your prayers. What an amazing God He is to answer them. Thank you!

Having a Nice Time

RJ and Eric, ready to eat! <--

On Mother’s Day, we finally spent the $100 US that was given to us with instructions that we’re to “have a very nice dinner at Duke’s” (a popular restaurant here in Chiang Mai). The giver further added that it would make them happy if we had a nice time. The instructions weren’t very hard to follow. We enjoyed the delicious food and Eric’s friends, and we had not just a nice but also enjoyable time. Thank you, Kyuns!

Because the giving was prompted by Eric’s being sick, we’ve already decided to find a suitable time when we could celebrate him. Also, with his first chemo treatment being just a day before his 17th birthday (March 20), we never really had a chance to celebrate his birthday. So seven weeks later, without actually planning it beforehand, we celebrated him (with his friends) and Mother’s Day together. What a nice treat! =)

After dinner pic with Justin Henry, Phillip Hampton, RJ Jackson, Kurt Jones, and Eric. It's good that these men are sitting or leaning. They all tower over Eric! -->

The Lord continues to awe us through the kindness of His people. A week ago we had a celebration at school and the popcorn sales were set aside for Eric’s medical needs. This Saturday, some 11th grade moms are having a food sale at a volleyball tournament. Again, they are raising the money for Eric’s needs. Eric also has an 18 year old cousin who decided to have a “Cut It or Keep It” fundraiser. By the time you’re reading this, she could already be bald, and she has (had?) gorgeous hair! “How do we thank all these people?” is Eric’s question, and ours! Sometimes, we just don’t really know how to go about it. Mostly, we end up praying for the Lord to bless back. From our hearts, please accept our thanks now, to all who pray, who encourage, who give, who does. We are grateful that the Lord can bless you. We serve a mighty God.

Lastly, for those living here in Chiang Mai, we found out that after the chemo treatments, Eric will be receiving daily (Monday to Friday) half hour radiation treatments for three weeks starting in mid July. If you are able to help drive Eric to the hospital and bring him home to Koolpunt Ville 6, or just do one or the other (once, twice, or any number of times), would you please phone Rhonda Cochran at 087 303 6004 or 053 131 101? You can also email her your name and contact details at mike-rhonda_cochran@sil.org Thank you for your consideration and help!

Trusting in Our Lord

O house of Eng, trust in the Lord --
He is your help and shield. paraphrase of Psalm 115:9

We praise God that we are halfway through Eric’s chemo cycles! Last Friday ended the second cycle of the prescribed four cycles of chemo. Since there are two treatments per cycle, we only have 4 chemo treatments to go through. Yahoo! We are also pleased to let you know that Eric was singing and dancing tonight. His behavior is surely an indication of how he’s feeling which is well! Also, he finished writing his final exam for his AP Statistics class today (Tuesday) so he is ecstatic.

Eric tried to study for his Stats exam but he could not stay awake. This chemo usually takes two hours to drip into his vein. <---

His doctor said all the swelling on his lymph nodes are gone. =) She added that Eric is responding to the treatments well and is doing better than average when compared to other cancer patients. His white blood cells are multiplying fast and plenty as there are more this time than the last time it was checked. His hair has thinned even more but is still there. He is pain and nausea free. Lastly, for so long, he’s wanted to gain weight and he actually has! He looks great and we are extremely grateful. We serve an awesome and amazing God! Nothing is impossible for Him.

Over the week-end, Eric tried to get up but he was soon asleep again. --->

On top of all the Lord has done for Eric, we are able to have an end of June family vacation at the beach (in Prachuap – 4 hours south of Bangkok). We initially canceled this vacation because of the 12 hour drive required to get there and another 12 hours to come back. Although we needed a break, we felt that it wasn’t worth our while to stay there for only a short time and then have to head back here for Eric’s last chemo treatment. Well, the doctor agreed to postpone his last treatment (from June 25th to June 28th) and then we received the gift of free flights to Bangkok (and back!) so we are able to be there for a whole week (from June 20-27)! That we are blessed is an understatement. The Lord is so good. Thank you all for praying! He is answering mightily!