• A Visitor from the Past - If we forget what they did, we won't know who we are.
• A Wedding on the Grounds - The inn hosts its first wedding
• The Tall Ships are Coming - Join the excitement!
• An Appeal on Behalf of Some Dedicated People - You can make a difference
• The Man Behind the Painting - A look at Arnold Friberg, the painter of "The Prayer at Valley Forge"
• Grand Opening Video on YouTube - Dedication and open house video clips
• At Home with George - A Los Angeles Times reader makes a recommendation
• From the Counsels of an Old and Affectionate Friend - What would George Washington Say?
• What Really Matters Anyway? - A Reminder from the Past
• Spring Planting at George Washington Inn & Estate
• An Infrequent Editorial -  Contrasting Easter and Election Fever
• Efforts to Save a Neighbor's Farm - Friends of the Fields Foundation is interested
• News from GWI - Going Green where it makes Cents
• Discovery Trail Update - Olympic Discovery Trail soon may run from Ediz Hook to Blyn
• Sequim Gazette Article - Mount Vernon Replica Celebrates Grand Opening
• A Day to Remember - Grand Opening
• Peter Smith Update - Peter's Battle with Liver Cancer
• Peninsula Daily News -  Business of the Week
• News from GWI - A WWII Historical Discovery
• Discovery Trail News - Old Railroad Trestle to Get New Life

"I am the resurrection, and the life, saith the Lord:
he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live;
and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die." John 11: 25&26

Click here to view this Scripture above George Washington's final resting place at Mount Vernon

A Visitor from the Past

by Thelen Paulk

I had a dream the other night, I didn't understand.
A figure walking through the mist, with flintlock in his hand.
His clothes were torn and dirty, as he stood there by the bed,
He took off his three-cornered hat, and speaking low, he said:

"We fought a revolution, to secure our liberty.
We wrote the Constitution, as a shield from tyranny,
For future generations, this legacy we gave,
In this, the land of the free and the home of the brave."

"The freedom we secured for you, we hoped you'd always keep.
But tyrants labored endlessly, while your parents were asleep.
Your freedom gone, your courage lost, you're no more than a slave,
In this, the land of the free and the home of the brave."

"You buy permits to travel, and permits to own a gun,
Permits to start a business, or to build a place for one.
On land that you believe you own, you pay a yearly rent,
Although you have no voice in choosing how the money's spent."

"Your children must attend a school that doesn't educate.
Your Christian values can't be taught, according to the state.
You read about the current news, in a regulated press.
You pay a tax you do not owe, to please the I.R.S."

"Your money is no longer made of silver or of gold.
You trade your wealth for paper, so your life can be controlled.
You pay for crimes that make our nation turn from God in shame,
You've taken Satan's number, as you've traded in your name."

"You've given government control to those who do you harm,
So they can padlock churches, and steal the family farm,
And keep the country deep in debt, put men of God in jail,
Harass your fellow countrymen, while corrupted courts prevail."

"Your public servants don't uphold the solemn oath they've sworn.
Your daughters visit doctors so their children won't be born.
Your leaders ship artillery and guns to foreign shores,
And send your sons to slaughter, fighting other people's wars."

"Can you regain freedom for which we fought and died?
Or don't you have the courage or the faith to stand with pride?
Are there no more values for which you'll fight to save?
Or do you wish your children to live in fear and be a slave?"

"Sons of the Republic, arise and take a stand!
Defend the Constitution, the Supreme Law of the Land!
Preserve our great republic and each God-given right,
And pray to God to keep the torch of freedom burning bright!"

As I awoke he vanished, in the mist from which he came.
His words were true, we are not free. We have ourselves to blame.
For even now as tyrants trample each God-given right,
We only watch and tremble, too afraid to stand and fight.

If he stood by your bedside, in a dream while you're asleep,
And wondered what remains of our rights he fought to keep,
What would be your answer, if he called out from the grave?
Is this still the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave?





June 21, 2008

The Inn Hosts its First Wedding

George Washington Inn had its first on-site wedding and the weather was perfect! For more wedding photos you can go directly to Ernst Photography and use the password (all caps): EJS.

June 20, 2008

The Tall Ships are Coming Again!

Tall ships will visit Port Angeles and Port Townsend between June 30 and July 2. Being on the Strait of Juan de Fuca and located between the two cities, guests at the inn will be able to watch them come and go. The vessels are among those taking part in the American Sail Training Association's Tall Ships Challenge race series along the west coast of North America. This series includes a race from Victoria to Port Angeles. For the first time in 9 years the Barque EAGLE, sail training vessel of the United States Coast Guard, will be a participant in the West Coast series. This is also a great opportunity to see two of the most famous ships in the world, the HMS BOUNTY and the Columbus ship, NIÑA.

Tall Ships Victoria 2008 - June 26,27,28 & 29

Tall Ships Tacoma 2008 - July 3,4,5,6 & 7

Tall Ships Port Alberni 2008 - July 11 &12

For more info click on the following Peninsula Daily News articles:

"Ahoy! Get ready to view tall ships off Port Angeles & Port Townsend"

"A list of tall ships to look for on the Strait of Juan de Fuca"

"A flotilla of classics to sail along the North Olympic Peninsula in next two weeks"





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June 19, 2008

An Appeal on Behalf of Our Soldiers

Arnold Friberg Presents President George Bush with the First President's "Prayer at Valley Forge"

As a former Canadian mountie I had occasion to become acquainted with the name, Arnold Friberg who is the only American to be given the honor of becoming an honorary member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Notice the pride of that achievement as seen in Mr. Friberg's blazer with the RCMP crest as he meets the president. Friberg became a famous painter of mounties for the Northwest Paper Company and their popular calendar which always depicted the legends of the Northwest Mounted Police, now known as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. While serving as a member, I started collecting numerous signed reproductions of these works of which some now hang in the library and upstairs parlor here at the inn. Mr. Friberg received invitations from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to come to Buckingham Palace to paint her and Prince Charles along with their horses. What finer artist could be found who has more experience and skill in painting horses?

Watch and listen to what the artist has to say about his now famous painting of George Washington kneeling in prayer at Valley Forge.





Summary in the author's own words:

"Since I was a boy, I have revered George Washington. At age 12, I drew what I thought a fine picture of him astride his white horse. Along with learning the American legend of his praying at Valley Forge, this deep inspiration of boyhood was never to leave me.

And so it was that I waited many years to picture him again, in prayer now, in the snow, dismounted from his strong horse – only this time in the full power and richness of oil colors.

To prepare for this painting, to ensure accuracy in trees and landscape, I made a pilgrimage to Valley Forge, in the dead of winter. In the summer the place is filled with visitors. But now, in the snows of February, it was deserted, the wind moaning through the great trees – silent, lonely, cold. It was a cold that chilled to the bone, a cold that froze my fingers until I could no longer sketch nor even snap my camera.

To ensure accuracy in man-made things, I sought out whatever museums, collections, libraries, or informed individuals could offer on horse gear or uniform. At the Smithsonian Military History Museum, I made minutely accurate sketches from the very uniform worn by Washington.

As for facial likeness, I studied every portrait ever sketched, carved or painted from life. But always keeping in mind how cold and raw-boned he must have looked during that winter encampment.

But such research, vital as it is, provides only physical facts. What I really tried for was, through the medium of paint, to recall the pain, the cold of that cruel winter of 1777-78. I sought to pay tribute to the tall and heavy-burdened man who alone held our struggling nation together.

For, while the British grew fat and warm and well fed in Philadelphia, it was the man Washington who stayed with his starving and freezing army through that dreadful winter at Valley Forge. It was in desperation that he wrote to the governor of New Jersey, “Our sick naked, our well naked, our unfortunate men in captivity naked!” With his own countrymen indifferent to their condition, where else could he turn but to God?

It is my hope that coming through this picture will once again whisper the spirit of Valley Forge, of suffering and devotion and pain, of liberty, and of the hand of God in the affairs of men."

For more information on this famous painting of George Washington click here.

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May 26, 2008 - Memorial Day Patriotic Music Links

• America the Beautiful
• The Navy Hymn
• The Marines Hymn
• The Air Force Hymn
• The Army Hymn
• Over There
• You're a Grand Old Flag
• Stars and Stripes Forever
• God Bless America
• The National Anthem
• My Country 'Tis of Thee

Courtesy of the Library of Congress and the USAF Band


Where in the World is George Washington Inn?

Links from other websites to our web cam:

• Cameras on Washington State's Olympic Peninsula
• Camscape
• Earthcam
• George Washington Coffee
• Inn Getaway
• North Olympic Peninsula Insider
• Pete Prossen
• Port Angeles Bed and Breakfast
• Puget Sound
• Washington State Web cams
• Weather Bonk
• WX Nation

Grand Opening Video on YouTube - Dedication and open house video clips



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May 13, 2008

At Home with George - A Los Angeles Times reader makes a recommendation

"I highly recommend the George Washington Inn on the Olympic Peninsula. It is a replica of George Washington's Mount Vernon in Virginia, down to the last detail." - Barbara Young, Los Angeles Times

Read this comment in the Travel section of the L.A. Times

Grand Opening - A Day to Remember
February 16, 2008





















Photos Courtesy of Robin Moses, Cheryl Slocum and Jake Mooney

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 December 25, 2007

Historical Discovery at George Washington Inn

While clearing out dense underbrush along the bluff overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca, a WWII-era trench was discovered that had been dug by US Army soldiers during the days that followed the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941. A machine gunner had been stationed in the trench in the days following the attack to guard against any hostile ships sailing down the Strait. Ferns and moss-covered willows had hidden the trench for decades until its recent discovery. John Jarvis, a life-long resident who had farmed the property over the years, remembered playing in the trench and surrounding woods as a child. His father's farm, located across the road, had been occupied by the army at that time. The historical integrity of this WWII trench is being preserved by the proprietors.

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September 2, 2007

The Washington Family painting was hung over the grand staircase this week. George Crabb, a local Sequim artist, painted this large (5' X 7') inverted reproduction for the Inn. The original was painted by Edward Savage and hangs in the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC.

George Crabb and his painting.

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Peter Smith's Battle with Cancer Updates

Peter Smith, our main finishing carpenter over the past year, is facing a tough health crisis and needs our earnest prayers. The doctors have discovered a large mass and have determined that he has a type of liver cancer. 

Peter is a great carpenter and is one of the most dedicated workers that I have ever met. He did a great job on the Inn...I've complimented him telling him that this is "the house that Peter built" and that it's good because it's "Peterbilt". Please keep him in your prayers at this difficult time. You can send him a word of encouragement at psmit775@gmail.com. He is now back with his family in IL.

9/1/2007 - Yesterday Peter saw a liver cancer specialist in St. Louis, MO and anticipates surgery to remove the cancer in a couple of weeks. He has a type of liver cancer that is often found in young people. The cause is unknown. Another CAT scan was completed so the specialists there at the  hospital can review his case when they get together to discuss pending cases each week. Additional blood work will have to be done. He was encouraged to eat lots of protein to prepare the liver for surgery and so it can replenish itself quickly afterward. He may also have to take some chemotherapy before the surgery if they determine that the cancer has spread. Please continue to pray that Peter and the doctors will have wisdom in the decisions that will have to be made.

9/12/2007 - Peter has had a Port-a-Cath inserted to allow chemo to be delivered to the lymph nodes around his liver where the cancer has spread. Tomorrow he will be going to the Barnes Hospital in St. Louis to meet with an interventional radiologist. They will be setting up chemoembolization to plug one of his two main liver arteries so that the blood flow to the tumor will be cut off while they send chemo directly to this part of his liver. Surgery to remove the tumor has been delayed while they put their efforts into stopping the cancer in his lymph nodes with chemotherapy. His weight has stabilized. Please pray that Peter will have strength for this battle and that the cancer will be arrested.

9/18/2007 - This morning Peter had the chemoembolization procedure. He had to stay awake and remain alert while a catheter was inserted into a main artery to his liver allowing direct application of chemo to the tumor. Peter slept most of the afternoon. His family is with him there at Barnes. Pray that he will develop a fever which will indicate that the procedure is working to reduce the cancerous tumor on his liver.

*Note: All future updates will be posted from emails received from Peter's sister, Sarah Joy Smith.

9/22/2007 - I am excited to be able to tell you that Peter will sleep in his own bed tonight!  Doctors released him this afternoon, sending him home with oral antibiotics to control his fevers, and pain and anti-nausea medication.

I will recap briefly the past 36 hours or so.  On Wednesday the doctors told Peter they wanted to keep him another day for observation.  This was quite upsetting to him, but later in the night we were all very thankful to be reminded that God always knows what He is doing and is always in control--Peter began to experience terrible pain in the middle of the night so nurses rushed to give him pain meds to get things under control.  The pain continued throughout the day yesterday but was well-managed and he was able to rest some.  He has also been experiencing a great deal of nausea.  Doctors assure us that this is all completely "normal" for someone who has just undergone chemoembolization.

Dr. Linehan, the liver specialist, promised Peter this morning that he could go home today.  We had a bit of a "scare" as one of his blood cultures had begun to grow some bacteria and there was debate as to whether or not to send him home.  Thankfully it ended up being nothing of concern and they went ahead with the plan to release him.

Peter will see his oncologist next week to discuss when to begin regular chemotherapy treatments.  These treatments will take place in our hometown hospital.  He is to return to Barnes for his second chemoembolization the first of November.  Unless his fevers are not managed by the antibiotics and rise again, he should not have to go back to St. Louis until then.

We have so many things to be thankful for as God works to provide for my family's needs.  A family member has taken over one of Peter's monthly bills, and others have sent generous gifts to help.  My dad is looking into social security/disability benefits at the suggestion of a friend, and it looks at this time like Peter will be able to draw from that to help with his financial needs.

We are in such a wonderful position to be able to moment-by-moment watch God answer prayers, sometimes before we even know to pray them!  He truly is our loving Shepherd who knows our every need.  Thanks to all of you for being instruments of his care for us during this time.

9/22/2007 - Thank you for your continued prayers for Peter.  He is resting at home now and is trying to regain his strength little by little.  He continues to be on pain and nausea medication as well as antibiotics to help with fevers caused by the effects of the chemoembolization.  He had a good day Saturday and was able to speak with some friends on the phone.  Sunday was difficult due to battles with nausea, but by Sunday evening he seemed to be feeling better.   Today he rested most of the day.  The smallest tasks exhaust him, so after showering/shaving this morning he was ready to head back to bed.  He does try to get up throughout each day for meals and to move around as much as his body will allow him to.

Peter will meet Thursday with the oncologist to discuss the regular chemo treatments he will have for the cancer that has spread to his lymph nodes.  There is no chemo actually designed for the cancer Peter has, but this doctor is on a special medical board that allows him to use several drugs that are not yet on the market.  The drugs are extremely powerful and the doctor hopes that because of their strength they may work to eradicate the spreading cancer.  Please pray for wisdom.

Peter is scheduled to have the second half of the chemoembolization done the first of November.  Several of you have asked what exactly this process entails: a catheter is sent into Peter's body and a tiny slit is made in the artery that has been feeding the tumor.  Chemo is then injected through that slit directly into the tumor and the artery is clamped off to prevent any further bloodflow to the tumor, thus causing it to starve.  This is a fairly new procedure, developed only within the last five years or so.  One doctor described it as "a missile directed right at the enemy."

Once again I am including contact information so that you may send cards, notes of encouragement, or make a phone call to let Peter know of your concern and prayers.  Centralia, Illinois is a small farming community and the church my dad pastors is very small.  Peter has no close friends nearby to visit him and it is easy to feel alone and forgotten.  Each time you email me (Peter's sister, Sarah Joy Smith: sjsmith@greenville.k12.sc.us) and let me know of your prayers, I forward those on to Peter and my parents--that alone has overwhelmed them, to read messages from people they don't even know who are so genuinely concerned for them.  Peter is a pretty quiet, behind-the-scenes kind of guy, and he truly is amazed each time I tell him about each of you and your prayers.  Thank you, thank you, thank you for letting him know that he is loved and certainly not forgotten!

Peter Smith
18887 Irvington Rd
Centralia, IL 62801
psmit775@gmail.com

9/27/07 - On Monday and Tuesday Peter had several severe bouts with nausea and ate almost nothing.  My mom was able to speak with an oncology nurse Wednesday who recommended that Peter switch anti-nausea medications.  The medicine he has switched to is much stronger and seems to be helping a great deal.  He was able to eat breakfast and lunch today and so far has been able to keep it down.  Peter has lost another ten pounds since his hospital stay (he has lost a total of 40 pounds since the cancer began growing in his body), so please pray that this medication will continue to work and that he will be able to eat regular meals and regain some weight and strength.  His weakness and fatigue will not ever really be "better" as long as the cancer is present, but we do pray that he will at least be able to be out of bed for longer periods of time and be able to take short walks and do other "active" things to help his body recover as much as possible at this time.

Peter visited his oncologist today to discuss his upcoming regular chemo treatments.  The doctor wants to begin treatments on October 11.  These will take place in our local hospital, which is a great blessing (the drive to Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis is about 1 1/2 hours).  We are unsure at this time how long Peter will have to have treatments or how often.  It was Peter's understanding from a previous conversation with the doctor that each treatment would last about 4 hours.  The doctor explained again that these treatments are not designed to cure Peter's cancer, only to contain it.  We are thankful that Peter was able to respond with grace and a good spirit, and as my mom later told him, "Peter, the doctors have not reckoned on God."

Lastly, Peter will return to Barnes in St. Louis on October 8 for a CT scan so doctors can determine if the chemoembolization is working to kill the tumor.

God gave my mom a verse when we first learned of Peter's cancer.  Jeremiah 33:6 reads "Behold, I will bring it health and cure, and I will cure them, and will reveal unto them the abundance of peace and truth."  We do not know if it is God's will that Peter be healed here on earth, but we know that if God takes Peter home, he will enjoy a perfect body for all eternity, because of the wonderful work of Christ on the cross.  We are definitely experiencing the power of God's peace and the truth of the promises in His Word, and we know that Peter will be healed, whether here on earth or when God takes him to heaven.

Thank you so much for your continued prayers.  We look forward to seeing God display His glory as He works in Peter's life and in the lives of those who are touched by Peter's cancer.

9/30/07 - Just a brief update: Peter is continuing to have difficulty with nausea (violent dry heaves several times a day/night--not to be gross but just to give you an understanding of what he is going through) and this is very discouraging for him.  Please pray that God will give him relief, if that is His will.  Also, we discovered today that the pain medication Peter has been on is actually hard on the liver.  We are confused as to why doctors decided to give him this medicine, but thankful that our family physician recognized the problem and was able to switch Peter to a new pain medication.  We have sensed since Peter's hospital stay that his doctors in St. Louis have "written him off" and are just trying to prolong his life in whatever ways they can.  This can become frustrating and disheartening to say the least.  Please pray that God will help us, and especially Peter, to remember Who is in control.  Humanly speaking I would've liked to have beaten up a few doctors today, especially when we learned about Peter's pain medication.  But once again my mom reminded me that the doctors are not calling the shots here.  Nothing can happen to Peter that has not first been "okayed" by our all-knowing, all-powerful Father.  And whatever the outcome, He is the one Who is going to get the glory, not the doctors.    Please pray that when our faith falters, as mine did today, we will not look to flawed humans or circumstances for answers, but will remember Who our God is and what He can do.

I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works. And men shall speak of the might of your [awesome] acts: and I will declare thy greatness. They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness.
Psalm 145:5-7

10/01/07 - Please be in prayer for my parents and Peter as they make some major decisions today about Peter's chemotherapy.  Peter does not want to take the regular chemo treatments because they will make him very sick and there is no guarantee that they will help at all.  They are looking into other options but need much wisdom as they decide today what will be best.

Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, for an house of defence to save me. For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake lead me, and guide me.

10/02/07 - After much prayer my parents have cancelled all appointments for further chemotherapy treatments for Peter.  Ultimately this was Peter's decision.  The doctors were not hopeful for his recovery, and Peter did not believe it was worth it to experience the severe side effects of the treatments when there was no guarantee of beneficial results.  He has instead begun a strict diet that is intended to help his body heal itself naturally.  He and my parents are confident this is the path God would have them take.  We leave all results up to Him, knowing that whatever He chooses to do will be best.

Peter's spirits are much improved since making the decision to cancel the chemo treatments.  It is evident that a great burden has been lifted from his mind and heart.  It is possible that his body may actually feel worse within the next couple weeks as it works to cleanse itself, but as my sister-in-law pointed out, he has been feeling so horribly since his hospital stay that the effects of the natural treatment may not seem so bad. =)  He had a very good day today after a "good sleep" through the night.  He was able to sit outside and even take a walk for a short time, and has not had to take a pain or anti-nausea pill so far.  We are praising the Lord for the relief he is experiencing, and know that it is because of so many prayers on his behalf.

This weekend as I prayed for my parents and considered the hard things they have been experiencing watching their son suffer through this trial, I was reminded of the pain God experienced when He chose to bring suffering upon His only, innocent Son because of His great love for us.  He did not have to send Christ to the cross, but He did so because He knew it was our only hope of being right with Him.  I hope that if you have never experienced a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, you will consider how much He loves you, that He suffered on the cross for you, and that He wants to welcome you into His family.  A friend of mine sent the following poem to me yesterday and it so perfectly coincided with what God had been showing me that I wanted to share it with you:

Before the Cross
by Jon Payne

My Savior's sacrifice paid for all my sin
So in my suffering I look to the cross again
No need, no want, no trial, no pain
Can compare to this
The wrath of God, once meant for me
Was all spent on Him

Before the Cross, I humbly bow
I place my trust in the Savior
Your finished work captures my gaze
You bore the wrath, I know the grace

In my darkest hour, Your presence is my peace
In my days of joy, Your grace carries me
Jesus, my Great High Priest
The One who pleads for me
My heart is filled with faith in You
Here at Calvary on my knees

Thank you again for your continued prayers.  We love each of you so much!

"In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the [atoning sacrifice] for our sins."
I John 4:9-10

10/04/07 - I am so happy to be able to tell you that Peter has had two very good days.  He has continued to take brief walks outside and was able to get dressed and stay up all day today.  Mom says he is grouchy and that is a good thing--he is feeling so much better that it is now becoming very irritating to him to have to "sit around" all day. =)  He is still very weak, but after the recent dark days we are so grateful to the Lord for the relief He is giving.

Prayer request: Peter became very dehydrated while under the effects of the chemoembolization and his body has not fully recovered from that.  As a result of the "dryness" he is having difficulty with coughing spells that cause him to gag.  The many fruit/vegetable juices and large amounts of water he is drinking are a great help, but he is not quite "there" yet.   Please pray that as his body re-hydrates the coughing spells will stop occuring.

We know that it is because of your prayers that God extended such great grace to us during the very difficult weeks we have just come through.  It is such an awesome thing to daily be able to see God's hand guiding and empowering in the midst of what would otherwise be completely overwhelming circumstances.  Paul's confident statement "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" has come to mind many times of late, and I personally have experienced its truth over and over again.  We know God will continue to give grace as you continue to lovingly bring us before Him in prayer.  We also know that we are not the only ones who carry a heavy burden right now.  Please let us know of ways we can be praying for you.

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong."
II Corinthians 12:9-10

10/06/07 - Peter is doing well on his new diet and is slowly regaining strength.  He told me on the phone this evening that his coughing is a little better.  Thank you for continuing to pray!

"Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD, is the Rock eternal."- Isaiah 26:4

10/09/07 - We continue to have much to be thankful for as Peter improves day by day.  As my dad reminded me this evening, we still have a long way to go, and we do not know what God will choose to do, but we know we can trust our Father to do what is best.

This weekend Peter was able to sit with my parents at the kitchen table and eat a "real" meal for the first time in three weeks.  Since then he has been eating a great deal of solid foods and has had no difficulty with nausea.  In fact, he has not taken a single pain or anti-nausea pill for one week now. =)  Tonight he had two plates of spaghetti and would have eaten another but mom would not allow it--she insisted on his eating more salad instead, in keeping with the new diet he is on.  Needless to say he was not too thrilled, but he obeyed. =)  He has been taking several walks each day and today was able to take two trips to town.  He ran a few errands with my dad in the morning and then helped my mom get groceries in the afternoon.  Both "events' wore him out, but just to be out of the house is such a blessing for him.  To say he has "cabin fever" is an immense understatement, as you can imagine.  At this point his strength is only back to what it was before his hospital stay.  However, he is certainly eating much more than he has been able to for many weeks and we are so grateful that at least for now his bouts with nausea have stopped.

In regards to Peter's financial situation, God is faithfully providing in numerous ways and we thank you for praying for his needs to be met.  Many, many thanks to those of you who have so generously and sacrificially given to help with his expenses. Family members are helping with bills, and once he completes the mountains of necessary paperwork, it is very likely that he will be able to receive social security benefits.  Recently we learned there is the possibility he may receive more medical insurance coverage than we had originally anticipated.  Please pray that if it is God's will this will indeed be the case.

Finally, please be in prayer for my friend Joanie Pegram and I as we travel this weekend to see Peter.  We will be leaving immediately following school on Friday and will return to Greenville late Sunday evening.  We are so thankful God has worked it out for us to be able to go and we look forward to spending time with Peter and my parents.  For those of you who live in the Greenville area, if there is anything you would like to send with us for Peter, please just let us know and we would be happy to deliver it to him.

Peter is, of course, unable to thank each of you personally as he would like, but please know how much he and my family appreciate all you are doing for us.  You may question the value of sending a card or making a phone call--it may seem like a "small" thing to you, but it is an overwhelming blessing to us.  Please continue to personally let Peter know of your prayers.  We love each of you and daily thank God for you.

"Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding.  He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.  Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:  But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." - Isaiah 40:28-31

10/15/07 - I praise the Lord that He worked out many details to make it possible for my friend and I to visit my brother and my parents in Illinois this weekend.  It was wonderful to be able to spend time with them and to see how Peter is improving.  He is very thin and pale, but as he continues to be able to eat healthful meals and spend more time outdoors, we believe he will slowly gain his weight back and lose that "cancer patient" look.

Because the area my family lives in is small, it has been difficult to find a store that carries all the foods Peter now needs to be eating.  He was becoming quite bored with the limited selection at the local grocery store.  We are thankful that on Saturday we were able to find a Whole Foods Market in St. Louis, just an hour and 15 minutes from my parents' house.  It was exciting for Peter to be able to go through each aisle of the Market and have so many things to choose from.  My friend and I went shopping with him and by the end of the trip we were all expert "label-readers."  There are many ingredients Peter can no longer have in the food he eats, so we had to read each label carefully.  We were thankful that in almost every case we were able to find foods Peter wanted to try that contained natural alternatives to the ingredients he cannot have.  Sadly, we were unsuccessful in finding a good ketchup substitute, but thankfully he has a recipe so he can make it at home. =)  Peter also stocked up on some of the fresh fruits and vegetables he needs.  Because 85 percent of his diet now consists of raw veggies and fruit, and in order not to have to make multiple trips to the grocery store each week, it is helpful to be able to buy these items in bulk, something that is not really possible in Centralia's grocery stores.  I think we may have purchased about a million pounds of carrots when we shopped on Saturday (fresh carrot juice figures prominently in Peter's new diet--we hope he does not turn orange and are confident he will never need glasses...). =)  Please do be in prayer as the cost of groceries has greatly increased for my family.  We know God will provide as He always has, and once again we are so grateful to those of you who have given to help with our financial needs.

Peter is feeling enough better now that he would like to be able to begin working again, doing small carpentry jobs as they become available and as his health allows.  However, right now he is unable to do so because of the portacath that is still in his right upper chest/shoulder area.  It was inserted several weeks ago when we thought Peter would be having chemotherapy treatments.  Peter told me that it does not hurt, but is a continual source of discomfort, and limits his ability to lift his right arm.  My parents have hesitated to have it removed just in case there would be the possibility of his deciding to try the chemo after all, as his body grows stronger.  They have asked that I specifically mention this as a prayer request, that as they discuss with our family doctor whether or not to have it removed, they would have wisdom to know what is the right thing to do.

I was privileged during my stay to be able to see and read many of the cards you have sent Peter.  My heart was blessed as I read the many Christ-centered notes and words of encouragement and love.  I know I mention this in nearly every update, but we continue to be overwhelmed by your kindness, your generosity, and your faithful prayers for Peter.  Please pray fervently for my parents as well.  They were already very busy people when God allowed us to discover Peter's cancer, and although there is never a word of complaint from either of them, I know they are very tired and, as you can imagine, very burdened for their son.  I am so thankful for my parents--they are the greatest example I know of what it means to be wholly given to Christ because of what He has done for us.  They continue to praise Him, but they are human, and they need your prayers for grace and strength.

Once again I thank you for the love you are showing to my family and I.  We love each of you very much.

"Blessed be the LORD, because he hath heard the voice of my supplications. The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him." - Psalms 28:6-7

10/18/2007 - Each evening when I call home my mom updates me on the day's events and on Peter's condition.  Last night when we spoke she shared some answers to prayer that I wanted to share with each of you.

I mentioned in a previous email that it was possible Peter would have more insurance coverage than we originally anticipated.  Peter was told this summer that the insurance he had while he was in Washington lapsed after he moved back to Illinois.  Recently he received a letter from this insurance company stating they had made a mistake and he was still covered.  As it stands now, both Peter's insurance and the coverage he receives from my mom's employer will act as primary insurance, which means they can be billed simultaneously and whatever they do not cover will be written off.  We believe at this point that all of Peter's medical expenses will be covered by these two insurances, meaning there will be no out-of-pocket cost for Peter or my parents.  Praise the Lord!

Although we had some difficulty with the specialists in St. Louis, our own family doctor, Mark Murfin, has been very positive and helpful throughout Peter's ordeal (one example would be that rather than telling Peter over the phone, he came to my parents' home to give him the news that his tumor was cancerous).  Dr. Murfin inserted Peter's portacath several weeks ago in anticipation of his having chemotherapy treatments.  Yesterday afternoon he sent his office manager to my parents' home to personally deliver a check for $1,600.00.  This was the amount the insurance paid for Peter's portacath procedure. Dr. Murfin had instructed the office manager that as soon as she received the insurance check, he wanted her to give the money to my family.   Needless to say we were overwhelmed.

Finally, mom learned recently that the juicer we purchased to fix the fruit and vegetable drinks Peter is supposed to have every day is not the correct model.  The juicer Peter actually needs can cost as "little" as $300.00 and as much as $2,000.00.  Mom began praying that God would provide either the money or the juicer according to His will.  My brother Paul and his wife are currently on deputation and were visiting a church in Pennsylvania over the weekend.  While they were staying with a family in the church, my sister-in-law mentioned offhandedly that eventually we might need to purchase a better juicer for Peter (she had not talked with my mom and did not know of the immediate need or of mom's prayer request).  The family proceeded to tell my sister-in-law that they "just happened" to have an extra juicer, the model Peter needs, in their basement and asked if she would like to have it.  When my mom shared with me God's answer to this specific request, I was reminded of His amazing love for us, that He cares about things we may think of as "small" or "silly," and that He delights to provide for our needs.  He is a wonderful Father.

I hope you are encouraged by these answers to prayer and will remember how much God loves you and cares about the things that are burdening your heart.  He may not always answer in the way we would choose in our human understanding, but He does always answer in loving wisdom, knowing what is best for us.  To Him be all the glory!

"He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?"
Romans 8:32

10/24/07 -  "Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies." Psalm 103: 1-4

Peter is becoming more independent as his strength allows.  He drives many places on his own and is helping mom with meals and other things around the house.  His body still "wears out" more quickly than he would like, but when we consider his state of health less than one month ago, we rejoice in the progress God has allowed him to make.

I asked in a previous email that you pray that God would give Peter and my parents wisdom concerning Peter's portacath.  They have decided it would be best to have it removed and have scheduled the procedure for November 9.  Once Peter's body has healed, he would like to begin helping my dad with his lawn business, doing what he can as he is able, working to increase his strength little by little.

Also on November 9 Peter and Dr. Murfin will discuss plans for doing a CT scan to determine how the cancer has responded to the chemoembolization and to the new diet.  Please be in prayer as they decide when the scan should take place.

I recently mentioned that I would like to create a "prayer map" for Peter.  I need your help.  As you have time, I would be so grateful if you could email me your name and the city and state in which you live.  Also, many of you are forwarding these updates on to people who are praying for Peter, or have asked your church and/or school to pray.  Please send those names/cities/states as well.  It is my goal to have a "dot" on the map to represent each person, each family, each church/school that is praying for Peter.  While it will be impossible to actually place names on the map, my plans are to type a list to include with the map.  I will be visiting Peter again for Thanksgiving and would love to have the project finished by then.  Of course it will continue to be a work in progress as more people learn of his condition and are burdened to pray for him.

Thank you for praying.  Please continue to let us know of ways we can be praying for you.

11/06/07 - O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people. Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him: talk ye of all his wondrous works. Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD. Psalm 105:1-3

We praise God because of Who He is, and we know that His goodness extends beyond what we are able to understand.  He was good and loving and perfectly wise when Peter was suffering in the hospital, and He is good and loving and perfectly wise now that Peter is feeling better.  We are not thankful because of pleasant circumstances.  We are thankful because we have a great God Who loves us in spite of our sinfulness and Who is worthy of our complete dependence and trust.  He does not make mistakes.

Peter continues to do well.  He began building a storage shed for my dad's church this past week--he becomes frustrated at times because he can only work for a few hours and then has to stop and rest, but as my mom reminded him, less than two months ago he could not even get out of bed!

He will have his portacath removed this Friday, the 9th.  Please pray that he will heal quickly if that is God's will.

Thank you so much for your prayers.  Please continue to send me your names/cities/states for the prayer map.

11/14/07 - Thine, O LORD is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. I Chronicles 29:11-13

Peter had his portacath removed Friday and is recovering quickly and well.  He and my other brother Paul are planning to begin building an addition on to my parents' house within the next week or so.  Peter had planned to begin the addition when he returned home from Washington in July, but obviously his subsequent bout with cancer/weakness prevented him from doing so.  We rejoice that God has chosen to gradually give him his strength back so that he is now able to help my parents in this way.  Mom tells me that he is much happier now that he is working and able to feel productive again. =)

Peter did not, as originally intended, speak with Dr. Murfin on Friday about having a CT scan done.  He relayed to me on Friday that he plans to wait until after Thanksgiving.  If the scan presents disappointing evidence concerning his tumor and the spread of his cancer, he does not want to have that on his mind during the holidays.  We are encouraged to believe that his cancer is at least not spreading since he is feeling so much better, but obviously we cannot know for certain until a scan is done.  We know you will continue to pray with us that Peter's diet would effectively improve his health and eliminate his cancer if that is God's will.  Above all, please pray that we would bring God glory regardless of circumstances, be they "easy" or difficult, and that we would remember that He makes no mistakes.

Once again I have attached all the updates I have sent so far for those of you who are "new."  Thank you so much for your expressions of concern, your generous giving for Peter's needs, and of course most importantly your faithful prayers.

Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. Jude 24-25

11/23/07 - O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people. Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him: talk ye of all his wondrous works. Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD. Seek the LORD, and his strength: seek his face evermore. Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;
Psalm 105:1-5

This time of thanksgiving means much more to me this year than it ever has before.  I arrived in St. Louis Wednesday morning and was greeted at the airport by my brother Peter who a few months ago we were not sure would still be with us for the holidays.  Since being here with my family I have been constantly reminded of how wonderful it is that we are all together one more time.  I have attached a family photo that was taken just yesterday as we enjoyed spending Thanksgiving with my aunt, uncle, and cousins in their home.   It was a very special time.

Please continue to pray fervently for Peter.  He has not been feeling as well this week as he has the past several weeks, but he and mom attribute this to several recent special events that have interrupted his diet regimen/schedule--he has been eating more cooked foods than he probably should and has not been able to keep to as tight a schedule.  Please pray that he will be able to stay disciplined throughout the holidays, eating when and what he should and taking in plenty of fluids.  He also has not been taking his morning walks as he used to--pray that he will begin those again.  He needs the fresh air/oxygen.  Many of these things Peter must choose to do himself--my parents have a difficult balancing act to maintain.  While Peter is staying with them and mom watches his activities and diet closely, Peter is not a "little boy" any more and my parents work hard not to treat him as though he is.  I am sure you can imagine how difficult it is for Peter to be dependent upon our parents after several years out on his own.    Please pray that he will continue to be diligent in doing the things that are supposed to work together to make him well, if that is God's will.  The process of healing is a long one and it is easy to become discouraged.

Peter will have a CT scan done this Tuesday, November 27, to determine what the cancer is doing inside his body.  Please pray that if it is God's will we would receive a positive report, and that above all Peter would have grace and God would receive glory.

I hope you are all enjoying a wonderful Thanksgiving with your families.  We love each of you so much and have many more friends to be thankful for this year than we ever have before!  God is so good and wise--He can bring what seems to be a terrible trial into our lives and turn it into something beautiful and exciting.  We have been privileged to become the object of prayers all around the world, and have been given the wonderful gift of being able to watch God work in our lives and in the lives of those He has brought us in contact with through Peter's cancer.  Above all, we are so thankful for the gift of God's Son, Jesus Christ, without whom we would have no hope of ever seeing one another again beyond this life. He has loved us and died for us, and we owe Him everything.  I trust that His sacrifice on the cross for you is your greatest reason for giving thanks this year.

My Heart Is Filled with Thankfulness
by Keith Getty & Stuart Townend

My heart is filled with thankfulness
To Him who bore my pain;
Who plumbed the depths of my disgrace
And gave me life again;
Who crushed my curse of sinfulness
And clothed me in His light
And wrote His law of righteousness
With pow'r upon my heart.

My heart is filled with thankfulness
To Him who walks beside;
Who floods my weaknesses with strength
And causes fears to fly;
Whose ev'ry promise is enough
For ev'ry step I take,
Sustaining me with arms of love
And crowning me with grace.

My heart is filled with thankfulness
To him who reigns above,
Whose wisdom is my perfect peace,
Whose ev'ry thought is love.
For ev'ry day I have on earth
Is given by the King;
So I will give my life, my all,
To love and follow him.

12/01/2007 - My brethren, count it all joy when you [encounter various trials]; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, [lacking] nothing. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and [without reproach]; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
James 1:1-6

Peter's CT scan showed that the cancer has not spread--the tumor is the same size and there are no signs of any other cancerous lymph nodes beyond the few that were already affected.  We are thankful God has chosen to work in Peter's body to keep the cancer contained.

I mentioned in my last update that Peter has not been feeling as well lately as he was when he began his new diet.  Those of you who know Peter will understand when I say that he is not exactly the talkative one of the family (God knew my parents were in need of some peace after having two very "verbose" children before Peter came along. =} ).  Unfortunately, because of his tendency to keep things to himself,  he did not share with my parents until today how badly he has been feeling for the past several weeks.  He is experiencing pain and his body is not cleansing itself like it was previously.  He has difficulty sleeping because his pain increases when he is lying down and only subsides when he sits up.  The CT scan report would seem to indicate that nothing is different than it was two months ago, so my parents are at a loss to know what may be causing the problem.  My mom asked that I specifically mention to you their need for wisdom at this time as they try to determine what the next step needs to be in helping Peter.  They will be contacting our family doctor at the beginning of next week with questions.

God has clearly directed thus far, and we know He will continue to do so.  Thank you so much for praying.

12/6/2007 - This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD.
Lamentations 3:21-26

My parents were able to speak with the wife of a pastor in Canada who has for several years been on the same diet Peter is on.  This man does not have the same kind of cancer, but he has seen positive results from the diet and has been a great help to my parents and to Peter as he has shared how the diet has affected him and what Peter may expect.  When my parents asked the pastor's wife for suggestions as to what might be causing Peter's pain, she said often pain can occur simply because of one particular food to which the body is not responding well.  Everyone's body is different, of course, and it can be a matter of trial and error in discovering which is the "offending" food.  Peter thought after this news that he had pinpointed the food that was giving him trouble.  After removing it from his diet for a couple days he seemed to be feeling/sleeping better.  However, last night the pain was back and was more intense.  Mom has put in a call to the organization that promotes the diet Peter is on.  No one was available to answer her questions today but they are supposed to return her call tomorrow.  Please pray they will be able to give insight into what is causing the problem and how it can be alleviated, if that is God's will.  We know it may be His will to take it out of our hands, that His answer to our prayers may be "wait."  If so, we know He will give us grace to accept what He is doing and to trust Him completely.

Peter struggles again with boredom since his semi-sleepless nights and discomfort have limited his ability to work.  Please pray God would give him grace to accept his current circumstances and that he would earnestly seek to know what God would have him learn during this difficult time.

12/8/2007 - Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's... He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities... Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust... But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children; To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.
Psalm 103:1-5, 10, 13-14,17-18

We have learned through the organization that promotes Peter's diet of a doctor in North Carolina who is both an MD and a naturopathic doctor and has had experience in dealing with liver disease cases.  Mom was able to speak with Dr. Cohn this afternoon and he seemed to be quite familiar with the symptoms and treatments Peter has undergone.  He told mom about something called the milk thistle treatment--he has used it with several liver disease patients with positive results in every case.  The treatment is given intravenously over a period of two weeks.  He cautioned her, however, that if the tumor has consumed more than 70% of Peter's liver, they will be unable to help him.  Our urgent prayer request at this time is that, if it is God's will for Peter to have this treatment, they would find that the tumor is affecting less than 70% of his liver.  Mom is to send Peter's records to Dr. Cohn immediately and then to schedule a phone consultation.

Dr. Cohn also stressed the necessity of Peter strictly observing the diet plan.  Peter went back to an aggressive form of the diet today to try to jump-start the cleansing process (he did this aggressive form when he began the diet but only for about one week; it is not the most appetizing or "fun" experience--pray he will be able to "stick with it").

He was able to have a better night's rest last night.  Thank you so much for praying for him in this regard.  It is of course very important during this time that he be able to rest well.  Please continue to pray for his spirits.  Praise the Lord that He "remembers that we are dust" and is lovingly patient with us when we grow weary and become frustrated with our circumstances.  We have all experienced the difficulty when we are tired and in pain of responding to trials as we should.   Pray for grace.

Finally, I am ashamed to admit my failure to mention that Peter's 25th birthday is tomorrow, December 8.  Many of you will undoubtedly be frustrated with me for not letting you know ahead of time so you could send him something special.  I am so sorry.    I did not forget it was his birthday, of course. =)  But I obviously neglected to tell all of you.  If you are able to call to give a "happy birthday" and a word of encouragement, I know it would be a tremendous blessing to him.  And a late card/birthday gift would be fine!  I've always thought late gifts were nice because it makes your birthday last longer. =)

May God richly bless each one of you and give you a restful weekend.  We are so thankful for you.

12/10/2007 - I thank thee, and praise thee, O thou God of my fathers, who hast given me wisdom and might, and hast made known unto me now what we desired of thee...
Daniel 2:23

God promises to give wisdom when we ask it of Him, and once again when we were at a point of uncertainty in knowing the next step we should take in Peter's care, He has given us a very clear answer.  I was able to speak with my dad briefly after their consultation with Dr. Cohn, and Peter is to begin the milk thistle treatments this Monday in Wilkesboro, North Carolina.  Because the treatments will be given over a period of two weeks, my family will be in need of a place to stay.  If any of you have or know of a family or church that has accommodations in the Wilkesboro area and would be willing to allow my family to stay there, I would be so grateful if you would let me know.  Because of Peter's diet they would need a place that has a kitchen with a stove, refrigerator, and counter space where mom could set up the appliances she uses to prepare Peter's meals and vegetable drinks each day.   It would also be helpful if there were internet access for laptop use.

Please pray as they scramble (to put it mildly) to make all the necessary plans and arrangements for being away for two weeks, especially since it will be over the Christmas holidays.  I am so thankful that the treatments will take place just a couple of hours from my home, but my brother Paul and his family who live in Missouri will need to rework their plans so that we can all be together for the holidays.  Pray for strength (especially for Peter as the long drive will be very hard for him), wisdom, the meeting of financial needs since this will mean my parents will miss two weeks of work and will obviously have extra expenses during that time, and that above all God would work out every detail "to the praise of His glorious grace."

I am to talk with my parents again this evening to discuss further details and will keep you informed.  Once again, if you know of someone with accommodations in the Wilkesboro area, we would be so thankful to have that information.  I am including my parents' cell phone numbers in the contact information below in case any of you would like to contact them personally regarding the accommodations or any other help/advice you may be able to give.

12/12/2007 - I would first like to apologize for the frantic way in last night's update in which I presented my parents' need to make all the necessary decisions/arrangements for their upcoming trip to North Carolina.  This is going to sound utterly ridiculous, but as I was sending out the update my tired brain cells were telling me that it was Friday rather than Monday.  Which of course means that as I typed I was thinking my parents had two days to make all the necessary arrangements and begin their trip.  Now, how in the world I confused a Monday with a Friday I cannot explain, but if you hear in the near future that doctors have diagnosed the world's youngest alzheimer's patient, you may safely assume that I am the patient of whom they are speaking.  The need for wisdom in decision-making is urgent, but not as urgent as I'm sure I implied in last night's update. =)

Thank you to those of you who have already given suggestions for places my parents may be able to stay in or around Wilkesboro.  They have not found or settled on accommodations yet, so recommendations are certainly still welcome and needed.

I was able to speak with my mom last night about the treatments Peter will be having.  She shared some of the information the doctor gave them, which is as follows:  cancer cells are anaerobic, which means they multiply in an environment where there is little or no oxygen.  The goal of Peter's treatment will be to oxygenate his body.  High levels of oxygen cause cancer cells to die.  As Peter's body becomes oxygenated, the hope is that it will be able to heal itself.  The purpose of the treatment is not to kill cancer cells, but to improve the condition of Peter's body so it can do its job.

At this time this is basically all we know.  There may be other treatments involved besides the milk thistle treatment, but we will not know for certain until Peter arrives at the clinic on Monday morning.  We do not know at this time how long each treatment will last, but it is our understanding that they will not affect how he feels, which is a great blessing.   Let me also say that the above information concerning the goals and purposes of the treatments was given to my parents very rapidly, over the phone, in a 15 minute consultation.  I know of at least one medical doctor who is receiving these updates, and if anything I have said is inaccurate, please do not hesitate to let me know.

Thank you for continuing to pray as arrangements are made.

12/15/2007 - Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on... Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? ...And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? ...for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Matthew 6:25-33.

There is nothing too "small" for our great God, no detail He overlooks as He cares for His children.  He has graciously provided a house in which my family can stay while Peter undergoes treatments in North Carolina.  He allowed us through various connections and phone calls to come in contact with a pastor in Wilkesboro.  A deacon in this pastor's church owns two homes, one of which he uses as his office as well as a place for missionaries and other "travellers" to stay.  We learned last night that the deacon has kindly agreed to allow us to use his home.  God also saw fit to place us less than two miles from the medical clinic where Peter will receive his treatments.  With the expense of the trip, the price of gas, and the difficulty Peter sometimes has with car rides, this is such a blessing.  We have also been able to locate via internet multiple organic food stores in the Wilkesboro area.  The accessibility of these stores will help greatly in meeting Peter's dietary needs during our stay.

As the details of this trip unfolded I began to pray that God would allow this to be a time of rest for my parents.  Though they never complain, they are exhausted after the events of the past few months.  My mom was concerned about missing so much work and tried to arrange a way to perform her job duties while in Wilkesboro.  In order for that to happen, she needed internet access, which the house in which we will be staying does not have.  When she called her boss today to apologize for her inability to work during the trip, her boss expressed appreciation for her efforts but stated she believed perhaps this was God's way of "forcing" mom to get some much-needed rest.

Unfortunately, no one has been able to convince my parents that they do not need to return home next weekend for our church's Christmas program (my dad is the pastor and my mom coordinates the program), so they will be traveling back to Illinois on Thursday, then returning to North Carolina on Christmas Eve.  Please pray for their safety.  I will stay with Peter during their absence.  I am thankful once again to have time alone with my brother, and certainly, Lord willing, our days together will be much more "pleasant" than they were during Peter's hospital stay in September. =)  I have included my cell phone number in the contact information below in case you should need to contact us and are not able to reach us via Peter's phone.

Although we will not have internet access, I will work out a way to keep you updated on Peter's progress during the next two weeks.  Hopefully the treatments will go well and it will be an outwardly "uneventful" time with little that needs to be shared.  Do pray, of course, that inwardly Peter's body will respond to the treatments and will begin to heal itself, if that is God's will.  Also pray very earnestly on Sunday afternoon as they begin their 10-11 hour drive from Centralia to Wilkesboro.  Peter is still experiencing much discomfort in the evenings, and car rides are difficult for him.

I am reminded that all this is happening for a reason--it is exciting to watch God orchestrate and carry out His plans and purposes.  I trust that whatever difficulties you may be facing, you are confident that He makes no mistakes, and you have the hope of eternal life because you have trusted Christ as your Saviour.  That is why He came, to die and to conquer death so you can have hope.  May this Christmas bring you true hope through Jesus Christ.

And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
Matthew 1:21

12/17/2007 - I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations. For thy mercy is great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds. Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: let thy glory be above all the earth. Psalm 57:9-11

Thank you so much for your prayers for Peter and my parents as they travelled to North Carolina.  They arrived safely in Wilkesboro this morning and had a very busy day at the clinic.  I will do my best to explain the events/results of the day and the plans for Tuesday and Wednesday.

Cancer of the liver or pancreas generally points to the introduction of a toxic substance into the body.  Illegal drugs and things of that nature are the first possibility, but when those are ruled out (as they have been in Peter's case, obviously), legal toxins/chemicals become "prime suspects."  When Peter was in high school he worked at a grain elevator where at least twice a week he mixed large quantities of chemicals while wearing no protective gear.  As Peter told Dr. Cohn today, no one wore protection--it just wasn't something the men thought about.  While he cannot be certain until more tests are completed, Dr. Cohn believes perhaps Peter's exposure to the chemicals at the grain elevator caused his cancer.

Today Dr. Cohn ran multiple tests in order to gather baseline data.  The results are as follows: Peter's lungs are expanding properly; apparently the chemoembolization has resulted in the tumor's dividing into two section; Peter's respiration is faster than normal; his oxygen saturation is 93%, while a normal level is 97-100%; Peter has a body mass index of 15, while that of a well-conditioned athlete would be around 17; currently he weighs 137 lbs; at this time he has almost no body fat (the levels were so low they could not read them); at least two heart murmurs were detected; his body fluids are low.  All this indicates that Peter's body is trying to take in more oxygen and that his heart is working harder to pump necessary fluids.  The above results are typical of a diseased patient--none of them were a surprise to Dr. Cohn.  His purpose was to gather data in order to know where to begin in caring for Peter.

Tomorrow will begin another round of consultations and tests.  First Peter and my parents will speak with a nutritionist to work out an improved diet plan that will increase the levels of fat and fluids in Peter's body.  Following that will be a heavy metal test which checks for high levels of lead, mercury, arsenic, etc.  Finally, Peter may undergo the ALCAT test, which examines chemical exposure in the body.  Dr. Cohn is looking for a specific chemical he believes may be causing Peter's cancer, but he has not yet determined if the ALCAT tests for that particular chemical.  If he finds that it does, he will perform the test.

Providing that all goes according to plan tomorrow, on Wednesday Peter will go the the local hospital to have a PICC line inserted in his arm.  It is my parents' understanding that he will then immediately return to the clinic to begin IV therapy.  He will have one treatment per day; each treatment will last four hours.  He will be in a room with 12-15 other patients, many of whom were considered "terminal" when they began the IV therapy and who are now nearing the treatment's completion.  Dr. Cohn believes that as Peter meets these patients and sees how well they are doing, he will be encouraged.

All the plans being made on Peter's behalf are an encouraging indicator that Dr. Cohn believes his condition is treatable.  Technically Peter has not yet been accepted as a patient, so please pray diligently that Dr. Cohn will agree to take him on.

We are certainly learning as we go, and it was communicated to my parents today that if Dr. Cohn does decide to proceed with Peter's care, the IV therapy treatments will actually last nine weeks rather than two.  Peter would have two weeks of treatments, then an "off" week, etc.  Please be in prayer that God will orchestrate all the details to make these long-term treatments possible.  We need wisdom.

A final request is that God would allow Peter's insurance to cover his medical costs.  The clinic has agreed to bill the insurance companies, but we are unsure how much will actually be covered since technically Peter's treatments are not "medical."

We praise the Lord as we continue to watch Him work out all things for His glory.  Thank you so much for praying.

12/18/2007 - Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my [mind] also instructs me in the night seasons. I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. Psalm 16:7-9

Some of the information I will share in this and future updates may seem to contradict things I have written previously and for that I apologize.  As I said in last night's update, we are learning as we go, and as mom and dad spend more time speaking with Dr. Cohn we become better informed about the specifics of the treatments, tests, etc.

Peter had both the heavy metal and ALCAT tests done today.  We will learn the results within 10 days.  My parents are confident at this point that Dr. Cohn is taking Peter on as a patient because he is making plans to proceed with the IV therapy and milk thistle treatments.  Peter will have the PICC line inserted tomorrow at 9:00am.  Immediately following he will return to the clinic where they will intravenously administer high levels of vitamin C.  The vitamin C will cause his body to create hydrogen peroxide, and the hydrogen peroxide will in turn  work to destroy the weak, cancerous cells.  He will also have his first milk thistle treatment which will be given orally.

Peter was resting when I spoke with my parents this afternoon.  The lengthy trip and the busy schedule of the past two days are taking their toll.  Please pray he will regain strength and energy and will be encouraged as he begins his treatments.

We are thankful for God's guidance, for His never-ending grace, and for the evidence of His great love through the prayers, gifts, and kind words so many of you have given.  We continue to be overwhelmed and humbled by your generosity and concern.

12/22/2007 - I will lift up mine eyes unt