Thursday, August 6, 2009

Fire & Rain


What is the hardest thing that you have ever done? Before this year, I would have quickly answered, "training for and running marathons." This has now changed. I have survived six months of fire and rain; radiation and chemotherapy. This process reminded me of a long-ago conversation I had with my dad, a pastor for 35 years. An elderly man in his church had suffered relapse with cancer, and this man had chosen not to receive treatment a second time. I remember quickly telling my father that I couldn't understand this - why would anyone not do everything he could to survive and prolong his life? I now understand.

I thank God daily for providing treatment for my disease, but the provision was a tough ride. On June 16th, I took my last chemotherapy treatment. In addition, I endured a day of tests and scans. While the doctors will not say that I am in remission at this time, they are encouraged that there are no signs of other tumors. My diagnosed cancer is multiple myeloma. Even the name suggests the biggest characteristic of this disease - multiple. Only 5% of those diagnosed with MM are distinguished as Solitary Plasmacytoma, and right now, I am a part of this five percent. Even the oncologists seemed shocked, yet elated, that no other tumors were detected. Praise God!

This picture shows a few of my care providers. They are my infusion nurses who have administered my chemo and medication. I still go once a month for treatment. What a calling these nurses have, not to mention they are the CRAZIEST people I have been around during this chapter of my life! They refuse to let you be sad or withdraw. It's a therapy that's been good for me. God has shown me laughter even on the darkest days through these "angels."

I look forward to another year of school, basketball, and time with my family. I look forward to seeing what other miracles God will bring my way. I look forward to sharing my thoughts on my blog. STAY TUNED!

7 comments:

Chris said...

OK, so I have to say that when I first read the title I was thinking you were gonna' break out with some Jim Croce! But even though you're not paying tribute to one of my favorites, you are so right that these ladies have been life savers for both of us. I thank God that He brought them into our lives - they are such a comfort and encouragement.

Kevin said...

Chris, I love you with all my heart,but Christian music is fading your memories of "secular " music. James Taylor wrote and performed "Fire and Rain." I am secretly loading Jim Croce and James Taylor on your shuffle. If I have to delete any music, I will cut out some Nicole Mullen. Ha!

jamie c said...

Oh my gosh! It is so good to hear some news from you all! And what a blessing the news is. Just want you to know we are all following your blog. Our thoughts and prayers are with you each daily.
Jamie C and the girls

Haley Hawthorne said...

Glad to know you're back to posting and glad to know your spirits are high and your body is doing well. God is good as we continue to pray in Missouri!

-Haley (Boyd and Kay's daughter)

Houstine said...

Hey Son, So glad to see you back on your blog. We have so much to PRAISE and THANK God for with your last test reports! Love you, mom

Kevin said...

Thank you Jamie, Haley, and Mom for the comments. I am so thankful to be past the worst of the chemo. It is nice to feel well enough to write again. God is good!

Jen said...

It is so good to hear from you on your blog again! I am so thrilled to hear the news. We will continue praying for you and your amazing family. We miss you guys and hope that you have a wonderful, HEALTHY school year ahead of you!