Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Post-Radiation MRI

I have some wonderful news to share with all of you! Actually, I've been a little remiss about not relaying this to you sooner.
Friday (May 23) I had a post-radiation MRI. Later that afternoon, I took a call from Dr. Russ Greene, my dedicated radiology oncologist. What he told me astonished me! Dr. Greene was delighted to inform me that there was "significant improvement" in my prognosis. He said he was very pleased. I didn't know what to say! I still don't. Knowing Dr. Greene as I have come to, I think of him as a very serious and sincere man who doesn't pull his punches. He wouldn't use a term like "significant improvement" unless he meant it in a true and thoughtful sense. I respect his opinion very much. The things he said to me during our brief conversation communicated meaning well beyond the words he spoke. It speaks volumes about what I need to know about winning this fight.
I spent the rest of the day calling a few of you who have been especially involved in my struggle. I wish I could have spoken to you all. Karen and I went to Ozark, MO and for an overnight stay with Greg and Martha. What a celebration we had!
We're not out of the woods yet but we have every reason to believe that we will win this fight. I owe it all to you. I won't forget you. Please stay with me as we continue on our road to wellness!
Life is Beautiful!

7 comments:

Lil A said...

John,
I can't tell you how much the news that you are WINNING meant to me and to Dan. Ever since that first day we knew you were sick, we've been in constant wait; waiting for moments like this. God's grace is truly amazing! It's truly humbling. I sit here, with such a feeling of joy- we believe in you, our faith never faltered; no matter what the road ahead-- WE KNOW YOU WILL WIN!

I'm looking forward to coffee on Saturday-- I've missed our coffee days-- I'm sure they'll be glad to see us back in Lazio's ;).

Love You!
Lil' A and Dan too :)

Anonymous said...

Not only am I happy for your great news but am proud of your continued positive attitude, John. It is a true testament to faith in God that you have stayed strong despite your trials. God only gives us what we can handle and you prove the point! Hope to see you for lunch real soon, maybe Friday with Laura and the family!

Brian

Danielle said...

John, this is absolutely wonderful news. I can't help but think that it is a reflection of your amazing strength, faith, perseverance, and all the love that surrounds you. May you continue to stay strong and may the good news continue to come! We love you.

Danielle

p.s. We'll be sure to have a drink here in NC in celebration! : )

Phil said...

Great news, John! Thanks for letting us/me know. I'm glad that you were able to get away to the Ozarks. Must have been a real respite. Stay strong, Phil

Greg said...

John,
We enjoyed our weekend with you and Karen so much. I am constantly reminded of the lessons you are teaching during this journey. I read a previous post today where you referred to Dr. Greene.
I quote you:

I may have to teach the man faith in science and the science of faith.

Mr. Tiffany, you have successfully completed one of your most powerful lessons!

In the future, it will change the way the good doctor views the disease and those who come to him for his expertise.

No doubt he is grateful to you for your gift of teaching.

Martha said...

Hi John,

I wanted to tell you again what a great time we had too. You, Karen and Katie are very easy quests.

We are sure looking forward to our trip to Yellowstone later this summer. You guys are great story tellers!

Love to you both, Martha

Nate said...

Great news John!

I'm working on getting out to Wyoming with the fam. Looking forward to seeing you there!