From James:
“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future'” (Jeremiah 29:11).
One year ago today, So Young completed radiation treatment for her brain tumor.
A year ago, the tumor was larger are more fearsome looking.
Today, after much prayer from many faithful people, it is weakened and cowering, having shrunk to two-thirds of its former size. They said it wouldn’t shrink.
A year ago, So Young had lost a lot of hair. She was bald all around her head, from both sides to the back, with a bald spot on top.
Today, her hair is growing back. The new hair is fine and curly, and she wakes up each morning with a what appears to be a heavily primped parody of an 80’s hairdo, a constant source of entertainment for all of us.
A year ago, we were still receiving meals from our friends several times a week. Lots and lots of food. The meals kept coming for months after treatment.
Today, So Young is making all of the meals for the family. She hasn’t lost her ability to cook at all. What is leftover from a year ago, however, is gratitude. We were just talking about it the other day, how our friends and family were there when we needed them.
A year ago, So Young’s eyesight was quite bad — even worse than it is now. At that time, she would describe herself as “blind,” because that’s how she felt. Those of you who walked with her during those days know that she needed a lot of help dodging curbs, cracks in the sidewalk, and even walls at times.
Today, she is walking with ease on her own and even texting again using the tiny keyboard on her phone.
A year ago, we were reeling in a new, chaotic world of crisis, only four months after the diagnosis.
Today, perspective is everything. We can see God’s hand in our story.
So Young says it all the time: “What Satan intended for evil, God is using for good.” We are seeing this not only in the story of So Young’s brain tumor, but also in the story of our marriage and our own personal struggles. God is using our circumstances for good.
Is your story like ours? Are you hungry and blind and waiting for answers? Trust God. Believe in him. He loves you, and He intends to use your circumstances for good.
My New Marathon 
It is so special that you are able to share your experiences. We are all enriched both spiritually and emotionally. My father who has been suffering from Lung Cancer had recently had brain metastasis and was treated by Dr. Redmond and Dr. Lim – both truly outstanding professionals and individuals. I was able ro relate to many of the experiences you have gone through. This can break you or make you stronger. Johns Hopkins is also a treasure. They help you build up your trust and fait. I hope So Young continues to do better and that your wonderful family thrives and goes from strength to strength.
Thank you for the comment! I’m sorry to hear about your father, but I am glad he is receiving good care. We certainly wish him the best! Our experience with Drs. Redmond and Lim and at Johns Hopkins in general has been overwhelmingly positive. Not to idealize Hopkins or anything, but every interaction we have had there over the past 16 months has been positive. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Good word. Very good indeed. True and heartfelt. Walking in nearly the same shoes as you guys for nearly a year ourselves, and God’s grace is evident in every waking moment. Much love to you, Nomi send hugs.
James, not only you are faithful and thankful to God, you are a poet!
You express your situation so beautifully…
And because of your experiences with So Young, you are also sharing your God given talent with us.
Thank you Lord!
With Praise, Grace
amazing… simply amazing. praise the Lord . stay awesome!