tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77165699797894405662024-02-18T19:21:28.042-08:00Standing in GraceSteve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-46710117869933532852011-12-24T06:05:00.000-08:002011-12-24T08:15:38.989-08:00The Elich Experience - 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 120%;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">At the beginning of the year
the focus was my continuing recovery from November’s thyroid cancer
surgery. In February Barb and I made
several trips to Regina for the multi-step treatment culminating in the
radioiodine ablation (a radioactive iodine drink designed to destroy any
lingering thyroid tissue in my system). This was followed by three days in quarantine
as the radioactivity wore off – an interesting circumstance to say the least.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 120%;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We learned the cancer experience
goes more smoothly when the ups and downs are accepted and shared
together. God proved faithful and we
remained joyful and confident under His hand of care. </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Judy, Patty, Kathy, April, John, Mary, Steve, Barb</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 120%;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As the summer months progressed,
Barb and I spent ten glorious days at Waldport on the Oregon coast. Blessed with sunny weather for those days, we
walked along the beach, explored the sights along the coast, took pictures,
played golf, and had a glass blowing lesson at a shop in Newport. As well, we spent a few days in Portland
catching up with family and friends.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />Beth and her friend Becky took their Oregon Adventure in April – returning with stories of much food eaten, train trips taken, shops explored, and accounts of time spent on the Oregon coast.</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><br /><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Hannah took her much anticipated summer vacation to visit her friend Michelle in Calgary. She returned with stories of life in the big city, canoeing on Lake Moraine, shopping and reconnecting.</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 120%;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>A Focus on School</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 120%;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Beth began studies in the Fine
Arts Dept. at the University of Regina.
She has done well and it has been a delight to see her embrace the
opportunities of university and this new phase of her life. Hannah took on the challenging route of
continuing her program by Distance Learning courses through Memorial
University. She spent many days and
evenings pouring over textbooks, writing papers and studying for exams. </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 120%;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In the midst of all this, Penny,
our 18 year-old cat, a beloved member of the family, had to be put down. Age had caught up to her and this was the best
option, but it proved to be a sad and emotional experience for us all. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Good News</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 120%;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In November Barb and I returned to
Regina for a series of follow-up tests. In anticipation of this I was required
to go off my thyroid hormone medication for the month of October. This was a month of ups-and-downs in energy,
concentration, and emotional levels. In
the end it proved to be worth the experience as we received the news of being
cancer free.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-6869423958098441082011-11-18T16:32:00.000-08:002011-11-18T16:46:31.761-08:00Penny: In Memoriam<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:documentproperties> <o:revision>0</o:Revision> <o:totaltime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:pages>1</o:Pages> <o:words>944</o:Words> <o:characters>5382</o:Characters> <o:company>Elich Family, Ltd.</o:Company> <o:lines>44</o:Lines> <o:paragraphs>12</o:Paragraphs> <o:characterswithspaces>6314</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:version>14.0</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> 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</w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Below is the text of an email I sent to Barb, Beth and Hannah this morning. It gives you the sense of where this post is headed.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:.5in"><span class="Apple-style-span" >We have a 4:30 appointment this afternoon for Penny with Dr. Hicks at the Moose Jaw Animal Hospital. She explained the procedure - we can be with her and all. What to do after - do we want her ashes, to scatter or bury or whatever – can be decided later. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:.5in"><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am an emotional wreck, but I do think this is best. I know we all love her, but she can’t continue being the unwanted cat – we don’t want her inside (because of the possibility of messing); we don’t want her messing on rugs and floors (even though we have been willing to clean it up); we don’t want her on our laps because she smells (I didn’t this morning); we don’t want her on the furniture and blankets (though we have been pretty lenient with the furniture part); we don’t want her in the cold in the garage (though she has done surprisingly well with the cold up to this point). In short, as much as we love her, she is unwanted (this sounds harsh I know, but in some ways that makes it easier for me). She has been a good kitty and I love her dearly, but it is time. I feel like a dope for crying so much, but that’s the way I am.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Penny came to our home in Rutland, Saskatchewan in October, 1993; the same weekend Joe Carter hit his walk-off home run to win the World Series. I have always enjoyed connecting these two events - an iconic Blue Jays moment and the arrival of a life-long friend. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Penny was born in Three Hills, Alberta in the home of our good friends and fellow cat-lovers Douglas and Veronica Lewis. Among the litter of kittens born in their home that August was one wee kitty that grabbed our hearts with that “I am a nice kitty and will love you and be cute and not be too much trouble” expression on her face. We were smitten and three months later she became an official part of our family.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Our earliest memories of Penny are of this little kitten wandering around the house, meowing like crazy, looking for Beth and Hannah who had gone off to school. As she waited for them to return, she occupied herself with kitten things – endless wandering, exploring, climbing, and meowing. This is just the beginning of so many memories.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >One Saturday evening, while watching Hockey Night in Canada, I heard a rustling around in the pantry in the kitchen. In checking it out I found Penny sitting up so proudly with a plump, living mouse in her mouth. Acknowledging her accomplishment, I took care of the mouse, and went back to the game. Soon the rustling in the pantry was back, and yes, there was Penny with her second trophy of the evening. As I figuring out what to do with this mouse, Penny preceded to let it go and chase it around the kitchen. Not wanting to lose sight of this mouse, I followed Penny into a small storage room off the kitchen, had the mouse run up my pant leg, quickly took off my pants, and Penny and I watched the mouse run down stairs to the laundry room. All the while Penny stared at me with a “why did you interfere with my mouse?” look on her face. (In case you are wondering, I found that mouse the next morning trying to scramble out of the laundry room sink. It met its demise.)<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Penny’s earliest animal friends were Chester and Waggles, two female dogs we cared for in Rutland. It did not take long for Penny to show her comfort hanging around these two friendly, cheerful, accommodating pups. That is until Penny boldly approached their food bowl for a sample. One of the dogs, Waggles I believe, took offence and snapped at Penny breaking her left hind leg. Thus Penny had her first visit to a vet and carried the scar of that event the rest of her life.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >One day in June, 1994, on Hannah’s bed, Penny became a mother to three kittens– <i>Blackie</i>, <i>Rae</i> and <i>Oreo</i>. She proved to be a caring momma-kitty, cleaning and protecting her three babies. We remember how, as mother cats do, she moved her kittens to a new location – the most remote, hardest-to-reach place in the back of Hannah’s bedroom closet – likely to keep us kitten lovers from handling these three fur balls too much. The next spring Penny became a grandmother when Rae gave birth to five kittens – <i>Cobbles</i>, <i>Chubbie Cheeks</i>, <i>Goatee</i>, <i>Stripe</i>, and <i>Butch</i> (the best set of names ever given to a litter of kittens). Penny proved to be a rather grouchy grandma and never warmed-up to her progeny. Over the years as other cats became part of the family, notably <i>Duckie</i> (Hannah’s cat) and <i>Danielle Rousseau </i>(Beth’s cat), Penny greeted them only with low growls and the occasional “stay-out-of-my-way” hiss.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >In July, 1995, Penny joined us in our move to Pambrun, SK, where she quickly adapted to small town living. She enjoyed wandering the streets, being cared for by Miss. Dickson, and bringing to the door fresh trophies of birds and mice. Pambrun life proved to be a good life for an easy-going cat like Penny. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >These years were not without struggle. In 2005, Penny experienced a serious case of dehydration. She was not drinking water or eating food, became listless and gave every indication that the end was near. A trip to the vet proved to be just what she needed. Dr. Wanda gave Penny an I.V. of fluid directly under her skin, which would allow the fluid to be slowly absorbed into her body. For a day or so Penny was a round, soft, fluid-filled balloon of a kitty, but was soon restored to health and strength.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >It was this event that attached Penny to me and me to Penny in a deeper way. She wanted to sit on my lap. She greeted me at the door when I came home. She woke me at night so would sit with her. She looked to me for the <i>occasional</i>, okay, the <i>regular</i> bowl of cream.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >As she turned 18 years old this past August it was clear her body was showing its age. While she still enjoyed having her chin scratched and being rubbed behind her ears, she had grown hard of hearing, had difficulty jumping onto her favorite chairs, and has not managing her bodily functions well. We knew this was the day.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Penny died peacefully in my arms at five o’clock this afternoon. Dr. Hicks and the staff at the Moose Jaw Animal Hospital are so caring and sensitive to the emotion of the moment. Penny will always be with us in the fondness of our memories. We are thankful to have had her as part of our family.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" > </span></o:p></p> <!--EndFragment-->Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-77447628815135285782011-10-03T15:38:00.000-07:002011-10-03T15:41:03.051-07:00On to Phase Two<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >The follow-up phase in this cancer journey has officially begun.<span> </span>With nuclear medicine scans scheduled for November 2-3, it is necessary for me to be off my thyroid medication.<span> </span>So today, for the first time since December 16, 2010, I did not take my morning pill.<span> </span>The result of this no-medication experience is likely to be varying levels of fatigue, lack of concentration, feeling cold all the time, and a general sense of fogginess of head.<span> </span>Much of this to one degree or another has been part of my experience already. <span> </span>What I can expect, I assume, is an increased level of severity in these side-effects.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Under normal circumstances a thyroid cancer patient would receive ‘thyrogen’ – a chemical compound used in preparation for the scans that are part of the treatment process.<span> </span>Thyrogen allows a patient to continue with their mediation thus avoiding the experience of prolonged hypothyroid – the condition that produces the fatigue, etc.<span> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >So far so good.<span> </span>I have made it through this day with only minor changes in my energy level.<span> </span>The days ahead will tell the whole story.<span> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >In the meantime, the idea of follow-up is to determine the status of cancer in my system.<span> </span>This of course raises new concerns that must be set before the Lord.<span> </span><span style="line-height: 115%; ">We are continuing to trust the Lord for a positive outcome in all this. Of course, the Lord determines what constitutes a positive outcome. To me it is being cancer free. For the Lord a positive outcome is He working out His purposes in me.</span> <span> </span></span><o:p></o:p></p>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-51590621045855684882011-08-31T08:54:00.000-07:002011-08-31T09:37:52.186-07:00One Year Later<span class="Apple-style-span" >This is my first post in long time. The first since I declared a renewed interest in posting posts. My resolve did not last long. So I am starting over with my fresh start.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >
<br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >Here it is August 31, 2011 - not the official end of summer but pretty close. September means school year, and with that the beginning of the long grind toward next summer. I am sure it will be a profitable and enjoyable grind.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >
<br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >One year ago I was between appointments - waiting to hear from which ever doctor was next on the list - turned out to be Dr. Pillay in Regina. One year ago I was just getting used to being full-time at Briercrest Distance Learning. One year ago I was beginning my role as MDiv program coordinator at Briercrest Seminary - a position I enjoyed, even with a three month interruption. One year ago I had no idea how significant the coming year would be - who does? </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >
<br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >One year later, </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am deeply in love with Barb, </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am exceedingly proud of Beth and Hannah, </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am thankful for good health, </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am committed to better health, </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am appropriately sensitive to the word 'cancer', </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am a new Mac user, </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am even more fond of the Oregon Coast, </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am excited about new opportunities for personal growth, </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am open to new areas of professional growth, </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am confident of God's faithfulness in my spiritual growth.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >
<br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >What about the year ahead? In October I will begin a series of follow-up tests to determine the status of my cancer treatment. First on the agenda is an ultrasound on October 25. The rest of the schedule will unfold from there.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >
<br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >So stay tuned. </span></div>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-7618394580026051272011-06-27T08:47:00.000-07:002011-06-27T08:50:46.196-07:00New Kid on the Blog<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am sure that corny line has been used before in the blogosphere, but I thought, “Why not?” Technically I am not a new kid on the blog, but a returning kid. Since my last post was many months ago, it is like starting over. So here I go.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Seven months ago I had surgery for thyroid cancer – a thyroidectomy.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Since that time, except for the posts describing my experience in surgery and a turn-of-the-year up-date, I have posted no posts (as you can tell).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I tend to be one of those “I have nothing to say” types, so no posts.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Barb and others have told me I do have something to say and one avenue for that is the blog.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>So here I am returning to the keyboard.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >My intent over the next few days is to describe my experience of the last few months and then to begin moving forward toward being an old kid on the blog..<o:p></o:p></span></p> <span style="line-height: 115%; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >So, stay tuned. </span></span>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-44562679408654218412011-01-03T15:09:00.000-08:002011-01-03T18:09:13.342-08:00Scattered Thoughts from Recuperation Central<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >More than a month has passed since my surgery and return home from the hospital. Let me get you caught up on life in recuperation central. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span">On the health front the initial challenge was dealing with the six inch incision running across the base of my neck. Understandably it proved to be tender to the touch, itchy, and the bandages were uncomfortable. The home care nurse came to the house to remove the remainder of the staples (half of the fourteen staples were removed at the hospital), which allowed for lighter bandaging and eventually being able to shave my neck. The muscles in my neck were quite sore, so simple things like swallowing, <o:p></o:p></span>yawning, coughing, and sneezing were quite painful. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Throughout the month I have been waiting for what we call (accurately or not) ‘the crash’. This is the depletion of the remaining thyroid hormone in my system, leaving me weak, tired, and generally lethargic. While there have been days of more extreme tired and lethargy, I am not sure the crash, as imagined, has taken place. Energy levels have been more of a peaks and valleys experience.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >On December 16 Barb and I traveled to the Allen Blair Cancer Centre in Regina to meet with Dr. Behl, a radiation oncologist. There we explored the plan for the future radioiodine treatment and got a big picture perspective on what is ahead over the next two months. It is here that I am told I have a paralyzed vocal cord, which explains my raspy, whispery voice – which, along with a nice looking scar, is the most immediate evidence of cancer surgery. The idea of the Cancer Centre stirs a range of thoughts, most of which are difficult to put into words. It says I am dealing with something serious that requires important and specific follow-up. I am working with a disease that requires a specific medical department devoted to this mysterious thing called cancer. The idea of cancer has become much more personal. Hearing about or reading accounts of people with cancer touches me in a new way. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >So what do you do when you can’t do anything? Well, my time has been spent reading (a fine book called <i>The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer </i>– [look for more on this in future posts]), watching TV (TCM and the Food Network are favorites), checking the computer (because it is a way of contacting the outside world), jigsaw puzzles (I am currently on my third one) and dealing with the routine of health issues (taking medications). I describe this time as “useful uselessness”. Taking time to recover is important; accepting the lack of productivity is the challenge. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >I believe I have been most surprised by the emotional challenges of this recuperation time. I knew going in that the recovery process from cancer treatment, or any other health issue for that matter, can be a mix of emotional and personal struggles. I knew this, but now, having experienced it, I appreciate more the fact that dealing with cancer is a whole person experience. The sense of guilt, the reality of isolation, the lack of productivity, and the uncertainty of the future add up to a weighty mix of emotions to work through. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >While wrestling with all this, I have also reflected on the nature of faith. What does it look like to have faith in Jesus for all of this in the midst of all this? Over the years I have heard people share about those who, while struggling with disease or infirmities of some kind, “They never complained about a thing.” Those people are held up as models of faith. They trust Jesus with such confidence that every detail of life is positive. I will have to confess, I have complained. Is this a lack of faith? I don’t think so. Faith without wrestling with the struggles is not reality. Trying to manage the issues and put a positive spin on everything is really just seeking to have faith in myself rather than Jesus. For me, true faith is a belief that God loves me, and accepts me, and listens to me, and is patient with me, and welcomes me in my weakness. Being genuine before Him is the best option. He sees the big picture and the smallest details. </span><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-41323879362140819992010-12-03T13:35:00.000-08:002010-12-03T13:38:39.346-08:00On The Table<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >In surgery I was directed to lay on the table – which seems to me was a cloth-covered, flat space designated just for me. Two spaces extended from the table for my arms to rest upon – thus a distinctly cruciform shape – no irony intended. I remember noticing the lights in particular, two round fixtures with a vast array of bright bulbs waiting to guide the process. Dr. V. , the anesthetist whom I had met earlier was there. The nurse directing me in the preparations was very nice. Dr. Miller came into the room and introduced me to the surgical team – I don’t remember them. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Then things got under way. The nurse held a blue oxygen mask over, but not on, my face. Dr. V. gave some instructions about falling asleep. Here is my most distinct memory of the preparations for surgery. I was breathing the fresh oxygen when, coinciding with the anesthesia, the fresh oxygen turned to a distinctly sour smell. I have thought about that a lot. Either the gas coming from the oxygen mask changed or the overtaking anesthesia altered my sense of smell. The sense of smell establishes the strongest of memories, and this is one I continue to carry with me.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >The next thing I knew was waking-up in post-op. I noted the sensation of waking there is quite distinct from waking from the fainting spell. There was less confusion, less fear. Comforting voices reassured me that all was well. My greatest need was for water, but that would come in due time. After a time, I was brought back to 217, resettled in my bed, and greeted by Barb and Beth.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >I recorded these events of surgery day while recovering in the hospital because I did not want to lose the memory of this multi-sensory experience. We are created to take in the world around us; to live and learn through each experience God brings our way. I am thankful for being able to ‘sense’ my way through surgery day. </span><o:p></o:p></p>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-40118168920744596702010-12-01T12:11:00.000-08:002010-12-01T12:14:43.012-08:00Up to the 5th Floor<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Coming out of that fainting spell is difficult describe. The memory is distinct, but the mix of sensations is a challenge – from dark to fuzzy to foggy. The first point of re-entry is the voices – Barb’s I believe – asking if I am okay. The voices are disconnected from my experience. Then my wide eyes begin to catch hold of the room. Since I am lying back, I am looking at the ceiling of the room – which adds to the disorientation. I cannot explain where I am or what has happened, but the fog is beginning to lift. By this time the nursing staff are there helping me out, much to the relief of Barb and Beth, I believe. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Soon I was back to normal and back into the waiting process. We waited for a while longer in the room – all the nursing attention had subsided and now it is looking to surgery. The next step was transport to the 5<sup>th</sup> floor – surgery. No, first I was taken to room 217 prior to going to surgery. I remember being in the room because of the procedure – the side-rails of the bed being put up. Pastor Jon came by after seeing Arturo and Elizabeth to the airport. I am thinking there was a round of taking vitals, perhaps taking some blood. This happened enough after the surgery that prior to surgery seems likely. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Then transport to surgery – the surgical nurse came with a wheel chair – I remember the blanket across my lap and being taken to the elevator – Barb, Beth, and Pastor Jon waving good bye. I rode up with a woman who was to have cataract surgery; we visited in the waiting area. I was moved from the wheel chair to a table/gurney to wait my turn. I was covered with the most wonderful heated blanket – the best thing ever. I met my anesthetist, which added to the reality of the setting. Several times I was asked the questions – any medications? No. Any Jewelry? No. Any piercings? No. Diabetic? No. These questions, or rather the frequency of asking them, show how thorough the process is and how seriously the professionals take their responsibility. I lay there for some time watching the traffic in and out of surgery – a busy place. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Finally it was my turn. I walked into surgery – not very medical drama – but at the same time it illustrates what I am dealing with – a manageable yet important health issue – thyroid cancer. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" > </span><o:p></o:p></p>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-53127149167326771912010-11-30T14:54:00.000-08:002010-11-30T20:21:47.293-08:00Next Stop, Surgery<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">On October 28, 2010, I was told I had thyroid cancer. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">On November 24, 2010,I went for surgery to remove my thyroid.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; ">The weeks between were filled with waiting, emotions, communicating, preparing, appointments, and more waiting. Finally, surgery day arrived. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">We arrived at the hospital at 9:15AM – checking in at the admin/admissions desk (I believe I was number 15). Being a surgical patient gives you a sense of priority – your name/file/papers are all arranged and sorted. After the processing of the paperwork we were sent up to the second floor – the surgical nit. I had been given a private room, not by my request, which we look back on as a gracious provision. The room – 217 – was not ready (a patient was being discharged) so we were sent to the TV room, also known as the Quiet Room – though it was not necessarily very quiet. (The TV room became an important place during my stay – because we could watch The Food Network – a favorite of Beth and me.) The process began. Nurse Lea Ann gave instructions for me to change into gauze underwear and a gown and robe (the gauze underwear may have been cut off me at some point – I am not sure). As well, I was to preserve a urine sample (the questions concerning pee and other bodily functions are a regular part of the hospital experience). Paper booties proved useless as my toes tore through the ends right away. So there I sat in gown and robe and gauze and booties, waiting for the next step - the IV. Dr. Miller wanted me on an antibiotic prior to surgery, so an IV was needed. Lea Ann carefully prepped me for the procedure and when all was in place inserted the needle into the back of my left hand. This was painful – far more so than the average injection or drawing of blood. The IV was hooked up and I began to feel it. Barb noticed me becoming pale and I was becoming that dizzy-before-fainting feeling – not your standard dizzy. Apparently I passed out with some type of seizure reaction – a twitching, jerking, I don’t know action – Barb says for about 15 seconds. This proved to be the most traumatic moment of the day. More to follow. </span><o:p></o:p></p>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-90513620468741141572010-11-03T14:14:00.000-07:002010-11-03T14:16:14.009-07:00Getting Started Again<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >It has been a while since I posted to this blog, for any number of reasons. Often it is because I forget about it. At other times I would say to myself, “I should blog this” but then get distracted and not get around to it. Once in a while I would get the urge to write, but then feel as though I had nothing to say, thus, no blog post. Now it is time to revive the blog. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am inspired by my daughter, Hannah, whose blog <a href="http://todayinmyteenageangst.blogspot.com/">http://todayinmyteenageangst.blogspot.com/</a> is a work of art and a model of consistent development. I am not sure I will be able to attain such lofty heights, but I do want to stretch my creative energies.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >So in many ways, this is starting over, or more accurately starting afresh, in Standing in Grace.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" >I will keep you posted.</span><o:p></o:p></p>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-11349584657485787722010-07-21T13:35:00.000-07:002010-07-21T13:49:27.704-07:00Gutter Goop<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">When small plants are growing in the eaves troughs on your house, you know it is time for a cleaning. So there I was, up on the ladder scooping remnants of leaves, needles, and small plants into a garbage bag. Then the hose cleared the downspouts and the gutters (the term I grew up using) were running again. Everything was proceeding along nicely until I came to the gutter which runs along the roof edge over the deck and then takes a 90º turn to run along the side of the house. Here I found standing water, but not just any standing water – a biology lab of standing water – all manner of slime and sediment and plant life could be found in that gutter, particularly on the deck side. To my disappointment, no tadpoles were growing in the scum. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Two circumstances were responsible for this collection of nature – one was the wire plug used to prevent leaves from gathering and clogging the down spout. This plug had become so filled with gutter stuff it would not allow any water to run. Water that does not run is standing water and standing water becomes a biology lab. The second circumstance is found at the 90º bend. There is a slight rise in the middle preventing all the water on the deck side from running to the downspout – so the water in this portion of the gutter sits and becomes ‘gutter goop’. Pulling the plug is the easy repair (what a delight to see the water freely flowing into the downspout)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; ">. The 90º corner will at some point have to be replaced.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Any number of analogies to our spiritual life can be found in this encounter with the gutters. For me, Jesus’ teaching on the impact of the Holy Spirit came to mind – the one who believes in Jesus “out of his heart will flow rivers of living water” (John 7:38). My experience in Christ through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit should be one of water flowing free along the gutter – fresh, cleansing, pure, energetic, and vital for life. Too often it is not, but I am thankful for the removal of clogged plugs and the washing away of the gutter goop.</span></p>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-54962565609802373692010-06-30T09:53:00.000-07:002010-06-30T09:59:27.926-07:00Been There Before<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">In 1620, as the Pilgrims were making preparations for their journey to the new world aboard the Mayflower, the task before them was daunting. North America had been frequently visited by fishing fleets and whalers, but establishing a permanent colony was something else altogether. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">While these Separatists from the church of England (they came to be called Pilgrims) were experienced at resettlement, having moved from England to Holland, a journey to America posed greater challenges. It was a new adventure for each one.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Robert Cushman, an important organizer of the voyage, wrote, </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>“It doth often trouble me to think that in this business we are all to learn and none to <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>teach.” </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The teacher Cushman desires is someone who had been to New England and would be able to help the Pilgrims settle into their new home.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Among the many definitions of a teacher, this one is filled with images – a teacher is someone who has been there before and is now leading learners to new territory. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">A teacher is someone who has been there before. This suggests a realm of education and experience that is invaluable to the learning process. The biblical picture of a teacher, whether parents as they teach through life in Deuteronomy 6, or Ezra teaching from the inside out (Ezra 7:10), or the Apostles teaching out of their encounter with Christ (1 John 1:1-3), supports the idea that a teacher is someone who has been there before. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The most significant implication of this idea is that teachers must consistently encounter new places. An ever-expanding horizon of spiritual growth, life experience, and intellectual development is the necessary requirement for anyone who seeks to be someone who has been there before.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> </span></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">*For a detailed account of the Pilgrim’s settlement in New England, I recommend Nathaniel Philbrick’s book, </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Mayflower</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">. Cushman’s quote is on page 20.</span></p>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-12909375710891908432010-05-18T11:06:00.000-07:002010-05-18T11:10:51.979-07:00Waiting Well<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I went to the doctor yesterday for the results of my thyroid biopsy. It had been fourteen days since the procedure – fourteen days of waiting and wondering. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The results – inconclusive. The sample retrieved by the fine needle aspiration was not sufficient for proper testing. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I have been told many times the waiting is the most difficult part of the process. The wondering has proven just as difficult. What constitutes ‘bad news’? What constitutes ‘good news’? How might life change if there is ‘bad news’? What is the conclusion is 'just live with it'?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I was not thinking of “inconclusive” - sounds like a loose end that needs tying up.</span></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The result of this is a return to the waiting process, though I am thankful for Dr. Wigmore’s move toward the next step. That next step is a surgical biopsy. Sounds more interesting and more ominous.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">All this is a reminder of the need to ‘wait’ well. Psalm 27:14 has become a point of encouragement in the aftermath of all this: “</span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color:black"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Wait for the</span></span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color:black"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> </span></span></span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant:small-caps;color:black"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Lord</span></span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color:black"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the</span></span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color:black"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> </span></span></span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant:small-caps;color:black"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Lord</span></span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color:black"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">” </span></span></o:p></p>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-33316328466373712442010-05-05T14:51:00.000-07:002010-05-05T14:52:51.153-07:00Biopsy<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Yesterday I went to the hospital for a biopsy. Specifically a thyroid biopsy. Even more specifically, a fine-needle aspiration. The procedure was simple enough – a combination of ultrasound images, iodine, freezing, and a fine-needle. It was over quickly with little pain and minimal discomfort. The reason for the biopsy is to discover the nature of a nodule present on my thyroid – whether cystic, cancerous, benign, or otherwise. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The idea of a biopsy suggests cancer and that is the scary part. The thyroid, I have been told, is a finicky gland when it comes to disorders. Nodules can simply be nodules and nothing to be concerned about. Still, the word biopsy stands in the shadow of cancer. The results of the biopsy are two weeks away.</span></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">This is not intended to be a follow-my-bout-with-cancer blog. What I want to see in this is the hand of God at work and reflect on His faithfulness. In our almost 27 years of marriage Barb and I have had few serious health issues – a few concerns here and there that have required attention, but nothing life threatening. Our girls too have been healthy – not even any allergies.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">On the way to the hospital Barb asked me if I was nervous. My response, which I trust was genuine and not a “man-answer”, was simply, “I have no reason to be.” My desire in all this, no matter what comes, is to not be nervous but confident in the gracious hand of Jesus. I do not intend this to be a simplistic answer to complicated issues. I simply believe Jesus is there to help with the complicated issues. </span></p>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7716569979789440566.post-69882096963131485292010-05-05T07:53:00.000-07:002010-05-05T08:31:46.013-07:00Welcome to Standing in Grace<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I have entered the world of the blog. In these days of communication options a blog is nothing new, but for me it is a beginning. As is evident by my late entry into the land of blog, I am not an early adopter. This is not because I have anything against the concept, it is simply a matter of becoming convinced I have something - a thought, an idea, an experience, a perspective - worth sharing with those willing to check it out. This blog is a means of stretching myself to think beyond myself and become part of a new community.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Standing in Grace is a journey into the daily experience of grace found in the work of Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1-2). As a follower of Jesus, redeemed and reconciled to the Father, I stand in His grace. My life is a reflection of the abundant favor of the Father toward me because of Jesus, and only because of Jesus.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I invite you to join me in this journey. Let us be encouraged together. </span></div>Steve Elichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05558581884473071649noreply@blogger.com0