MARCH 26, 2010

ChinChin Palis with Pastor Gary

We are 6 days away from flying back to the States. The purpose will be for Gary to see his doctor at Mayo Clinic for his 1 year post Stem Cell Transplant. Hard for us to believe it has been a year! Today, Gary visited a pain management clinic. He is still in need of heavy pain meds and they are not available at just any pharmacy. This clinic is open 24 hours, so that is comforting to know they will be accessible any time he would need help. They were very thorough in their assessment of him, so we are confident they will be able to handle his needs. Gary continues to improve with the use of his left hand and arm. This past week, he was able to swim across a pool and tie his own tie. Little things, but major accomplishments for him. We will appreciate your prayers as we travel on April 1st. As anyone who has made this trip knows, it is a very hard one and will be especially hard on Gary.

MARCH 14

Gary celebrated his 51st birthday this week! It was quite a celebration for our family, as last year at this time, we were not sure he would live another month, let alone a whole year! To be back in the Philippines doing ministry again has been a wonderful blessing for us. This Sunday, Bethel Baptist Church, Quezon City honored Gary for his birthday. The day was filled with birthday greetings and gifts.

The young people put together a sweet video presentation of Birthday greetings for Gary. Many of the children greeting him are from our street kids ministry. What a way to show their love for him! I have tried my best to load it here, but it is just too large a file for my slow Internet! Maybe when we go to the States in a few weeks, I can add it. I surprised Gary with my own presentation. You can see it HERE. Notice the children laughing behind Gary. I think it was the picture below that caused it. *smile* This was a great week for Gary, just being thankful to have lived another year. We have so much to be thankful for! Appreciate all your prayers through the past two years! We will be travelling to the States April 1st. Gary will see his oncologist at Mayo Clinic later in the month for his one year check up.