January 14, 2005

Good News Bad News

Today I went in for a MRI of my back to see if we can find what has been causing me so much back pain. It was a restful hour on my back in a clean room with an impressive machine. I got to listen to classical music in earphones through much of the procedure. Although the noise of the Magnetic Resonator pretty well drowns out the music when it is in operation. The images were sent to a radiologist and then to my radiation oncologist. I got the report this afternoon. The good news is that they found the source of my back pain. The bad news is that it is probably a metastasis of the renal tumor in two sections of my spine. We will now consult with all the doctors including this new information to consider the best treatment plans. I anticipate radiation to the spine and perhaps some modification of the dosed to the prostate, That conversation will occur next week among the team who has taken on the daunting task of interpreting massive data into human language for Marilyn and I to consider. This news came a little earlier than I had anticipated but it is no surprise. It looks like my dance steps will have to become a little more forceful and nimble. I'll be working on them in my dreams. Posted by Donel at January 14, 2005 10:14 PM

Dad,

James has theorized that your cancer is like Lord Sauron's troops. New orks keep popping out, even after their defeat on other battlefields. So, if you have need of a fuller diagnosis, just talk to James.

We love you and are continuing to visualize victory for the Fellowship!

Posted by: Dani at January 14, 2005 11:53 PM

Sorry to hear the bad news part. I continue my prayers for you and Marilyn. Barb S

Posted by: Barb Storms at January 15, 2005 10:20 AM

Know that you both are loved. N.K.

Posted by: Nancy Kennell at January 15, 2005 01:45 PM

Donel-Thanks for keeping us updated on this journey. You remain ever in our prayers and I know that others at Westminster Congregational here in Spokane are also praying for you--because your name pops up during prayers and concerns! We love you and miss you. -Laurie, Breean, Carter, Bridget and Fiona

Posted by: Laurie Powers at January 17, 2005 06:32 PM

Thank you for keeping up updated on your condition. Please know that you are always in our thoughts and prayers. Love from the entire Collins Family.

Posted by: Anita at January 18, 2005 02:57 PM

Oh Donel, this is more than just bad news. In the four days now that I have been wrestling with the worst case implications of what you have described here I have not been able to think of anything to say to you that is more important than the tearful "I love you" that I managed on Sunday at the door to the sanctuary. It pretty much sums it all up.

I hope that you will find it funny that, as I was trying to somehow call to God's attention that this is just wrong, that I told God that it was not right that "such a young man" should have to travel this path so soon. That caused me to reflect on the enormous amount you, Mister Young Man, have given to the community who loves you, the world, and most especially to me. Being the extremely selfish person that I am I want to continue to receive those gifts for a long time to come. Please be very nimble in your dancing. You have lots of partners in this dance.

Posted by: Janet at January 19, 2005 12:46 PM
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