In the sidebar of this journal I will be adding several pictures from time to time. I have chosen things that I think are cool. I'm calling them "My Cool Things." I've decided to tell you about them in a few entries.
Today is a Red Letter Day on my calendar. This is the second anniversary of the bone marrow transplant that put one, and kept another, of my cancers in remission. In the last two years I have been through many complications, numerous procedures, countless infections, and endless tests; I almost died a number of times. But without that transplant I would almost certainly be dead. Being alive against the odds is definitely cool.
Australian hats have a unique style that brings to mind the Outback, exotic animals, and adventure. My wife wanted to buy me a wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun off my face and neck since bone marrow transplant recipients are at high risk for skin cancer. I picked an Aussie hat that was distinctive and good looking. We chose a hat over sunscreen because shade is more effective than chemicals, and a fine hat can improve your appearance. A little help from Australia is welcome, because avoiding a third cancer can only be cool.
God has been my friend since before I was born, even during those years when I spent my time in rebellious pursuits. He was with me during my treatment for cancer, especially during my many, sometimes life-threatening, complications to my bone marrow transplant. God kept me alive through those difficult times because He has a plan for my life. Doctors, medications, and transplants are several ways God heals us of our illnesses. Supernatural miracles may be the exception rather than the rule; He can heal us that way, but He often chooses to help us help each other. This does not diminish God's role in the treatments that lead to our cures. I am deeplygrateful to God and my doctors for my recovery. Having a friend like God is eternally cool.
ReplyDeletemy fav's the Aussie hat..but what else can I say except they're all cool!
Gem :-)
Congratulations on your 2yr anniversary! I am new to journaling, and rarely read others' blogs, but for some reason, yours caught my eye.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your optimistic outlook... it is inspiring! I can only imagine how great it is to experience life from your point of view. I'll bet you appreciate many things that I take for granted.
I also bet you look fantastic in your hat! :)
My mom is battling cancer for the second time. It is now in her bone, but still relatively contained. Your entries give me some hope!
And yes, God is a wonderful friend. He will walk with you in good times and bad.
Take Care. I will pray for your continued health!
Jen
Happy birthday John!! (see I got it right, LOL, instead of anniversary, birthday). Excellent entry; Jeremiah 29:11 (for I know the plans I have for you, plans not to harm you, plans to prosper you and give you hope)
ReplyDeleteLoved this entry!!
betty
love the hat way too cool:) have a good week John
ReplyDeleteDeb
Good 'cool' things for sure ! God is awesome ! 'On Ya' -ma
ReplyDeleteI see why you treasure each. And I am thrilled to hear you acknowledge He was with you even through your rebellious period. He was for me too. Too often people don't realize it or acknowledge it. - Barbara
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't cal them cool things, they're awesome things!
ReplyDeleteMissie
I can well remember when you had the transplant. We were all on our knees praying on your behalf. Our God is an awesome God! Linda in Washington state
ReplyDeleteCoool!!! I'm smiling, John! Love, Val xox
ReplyDeletehttp://journals.aol.com/valphish/ThereisaSeason
John we are all deeply thankful for your doctors and God for treatments that worked for you and that you are feeling better. Arlene (AJ)
ReplyDeleteI am so pleased that you are on the mend. Congratulations on your award. Love Pam xx
ReplyDeletehttp://journals.aol.co.uk/pamal3/almost-40/
Prayers help.
ReplyDeleteJude
http://journals.aol.com/jmorancoyle/MyWay
Congrats on being a guest editor's pick and you're right that hat is pretty cool!
ReplyDelete-Dawn-