The Struggle Has Ended

Greg Hewlett passed away on January 17th after nearly eight years of battling colon cancer. While we grieve his loss, we are comforted to know that he is with his Lord.

If you would like to leave your thoughts on Greg, please see this thread.

If you would like to make a charitable donation in Greg's honor, please see this thread.

Tuesday, June 3, 2003

Dr. Jaffe - an old friend

Dr Jaffe was my oncologist for bone cancer back in the early 80's. He is one of the leading oncologists in osteosarcoma. Dr. Jaffe and I have a close bond. For years we battled that disease and were victorious together. I also had the opportunity to go snow skiing with him a couple times and see the man without the white jacket. He is a brilliant man driven by a near-obsession to beat that disease. He lives to save lives. It was obvious to me that this was his passion. His hard work was used by God to spare my life.

This morning I talked with Dr. Jaffe. He still works at M.D. Anderson. (I thought he was nearing retirement when I first met him in 1982!) He told me he was deeply moved by the news. He recalled that day nearly twenty years ago when he had to communicate to me I had cancer.

After I recounted what had happened in the past week, he told me to send all records and reports to him. I asked him if he needed official summaries only or everything. "Send me everything," he replied, "you don't have a physician over here, you have a friend over here."

I have some new comfort knowing Dr. Jaffe will be by my side as an advocate through this. "You must be optimistic," he said as we ended the conversation. "Keep your courage up. And you must come see me when you come down here next week."

I'm looking forward to seeing him again.


2 comments:

Judy Wu said...

Ah, yes - Norm Jaffe! He sends us patients all the time, even tries to tell us when to operate, no matter what our schedule might be, so I can attest to his commitment and tenacity on behalf of his patients. He's a good guy to have in your corner. Did you know Kindra Bryan (now Blecher), his former nurse? She goes to my church. Small world.

Deb Peck said...

You are in the prayers of Josh, Beth, and me at every meal, during homeschooling, and at bedtime.
The Hewletts are precious to God; and He is a faithful God, a mighty God, and a sovereign God whose goodness and mercy will follow you ALL the days of your lives. Greg, we pray your cup will overflow in the wonder of His love for you.