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.

Saturday, October 16, 2004

Disappointing news

The disappointment sitting heavy within me is keeping me from being able to express much today. I'll try to cover the highlights.

Dr. Vauthey seemed quite concerned. The nodule has grown. This is the spot that they tried to biopsy back in July, but which showed negative for cancer. It is in my lower abdominal area just outside the intestinal track. This thing - whatever it is - seems to have have grown significantly to 2.5cm. So they are going to do another biopsy this week.

In addition, there is a small spot on my lung that was not there in July. It is too small to say anything conclusive about it. We'll be keeping our eyes on it.

Monday, I will meet with the biopsy doctor to find out more about the procedure, including when it will be. They will do a CT-scan-guided external biopsy this time, so they can be sure they hit the nodule. I imagine it will be like the liver biopsy I had last year, but I hope not.

There are a few encouraging signs. The intestinal nodule is in a place Dr. Vauthey has never seen colon cancer spread. And the PET scan in July showed no signs of cancerous activity, even with the nodule present at that time. Also, my CEA remains a somewhat low 4.5.

Christine and I are thankful to all of you for your support in prayer.

15 comments:

Madeleine said...

Yes, I have and will definitely continue to pray about this with you. As always, thanks for keeping us informed. God's plans are perfect -- and they include our bringing things to Him in prayer!

BoB & Sandra said...

You have not heard much from us of late, but know that we have you constantly in our thoughts and prayer. Put you on the list each Sunday, and at Bible Study. Your postings add meaning to the importance of each day. Sharing this with my mom show she can keep up with you and your bride. Hug Your Honey!
God Bless,
BoB E. & Sandra

Brian Marquis said...

God has strange ways of reminding us of our total dependence on him, doesn't he? He loves us so much that he won't let us forget! His ways are so much higher than ours, but they are indeed perfect. Let's see what amazing things he will work in and and through you this time...
Prayerfully,
Brian

Bruce & Bert Grantham said...

I'm stunned. Any news other than a clean bill of health strikes me a grossly unfair.
Earlier this month was the one year anniversary of Bert's leg salvage surgery for osteosarcoma. Her test's remain clear. She walks (a bit stiffly) without aid.
Last night, I was fried after a heavy work week. I didn't feel great. As I lay next to her in bed, I said "this is the best night of my life because you are here". I've said it to her several times lately. I mean it every time.
I, like you, am struggling with what to say about your news. I don't think any of the above is helpful.
We will (continue to) pray.
Love (in Christ), Bruce (& Bert)

Willeyne Berger said...

we are continuing to pray for you Greg, Keep up your wonderful attitude!! Willeyne
I will let you know when my address is up and running as I want to keep up with your progress. Give your folks and family my love.

Willeyne Berger said...

we are continuing to pray for you Greg, Keep up your wonderful attitude!! Willeyne
I will let you know when my address is up and running as I want to keep up with your progress. Give your folks and family my love.

Scott said...

Greg:
You're at the top of my prayer list, Brother, and I want you never to forget that God's in control, always.
I'm less than 350 miles from reaching my goal of hiking the A.T. I've thought often of you as I've hiked the trail, and have drawn many parallels. Just as I'm hiking a physical trail with many ups, downs, and obstacles, you're "hiking" a trail that's filled with much of the same. So often when I'm hiking up a seemingly endless uphill climb, I wonder out loud "will this ever end?" When I reach the top, I'm exhilerated by what I see, the climb has been worth it. However, off in the distance, I see more mountains to climb, more obstacles in my path. I won't succeed in this or progress any further without perseverence, continually placing one foot in front of the other, knowing that each step is bringing me one step closer than I have been.
The major difference, of course, is that I have a choice about the trail I'm hiking, and you don't. Just know that I'm "hiking" with you, Greg, and you're continually in my thoughts & prayers. May God continue to shine His blessings upon you and yours.
Your brother in Christ Jesus,
Scott
Trail name: One-Leg

matt boulter said...

Bouquet and I are praying for you and Christine, Greg.
Peace of Christ
Matt

Sharon Segner said...

My heart just sank when I read your email. Know that you are in my prayers! Sharon

Jim and Coco said...

No matter what, we know that The Lord has you "...soaring on eagles wings."
GOd Bless and our prayers are with you guys.

Steve said...

Still praying. Really feel for you both.
Steve

Carl said...

Greg and Christine
I can only think of Job. And then I realize that it is a good thought. May the Gifts of the Holy Spirit buoy you through this too. In Jesus Holy Name we pray.
Love

Jerry McFarland said...

Greg,
Out of sight is NOT out of mind. I'm grateful for the updates no matter what. You and Christine are supported by your family here.
In Him,
Jerry

Dan & Syd said...

Greg: Dan and I are in constant prayer for you:
Intercessory prayer can be the tool for God's intervention!
We are all claiming that intervention!!!!
Love In Christ,
Syd

Chuck said...

Greg and Christine,
I'm so sorry to hear this news. I will pray for both of you that God will give you joy in the midst of all this suffering.
Chuck