It seems like such a short time has passed, but it has already been five weeks since dad received a confirmed diagnosis of stage 4 bile duct cancer. In more recent weeks he has found himself "stuck, lingering in the valley" as he describes it. Today it seems he was able to make a few strides through that valley. He suffered today, with more pain that I would have believed a person could endure had I not been there to hear his prayers and cries for help. God has answered dads prayer - that pain not change his character. Through his pain, he continued to pray, and showed a strength beyond my understanding. The nurses and doctor were amazing at working to get his pain under control again, but in doing so, dad fell into a deep sleep, where he looks to be peaceful and comfortable. We do not expect that he will be waking up anymore after today, and so much is being done by the staff at Maple Hill Hospice to make sure he remains comfortable as his walk through the valley comes to an end.
- Naomi -
We are so sorry for all of the emotional pain that your family is suffering and for the physical pain that Pastor Bill is suffering. It's hard to believe that things could be so awful for him so close to the end of his life. We are praying that he will feel no more pain at all and that, even though we miss him, the Lord with take him home very soon. We know that God has a very special place, which He has already prepared, that is ready for Bill.
ReplyDeleteLove, Christa, Brian(Owen and Isla)
This was so hard to read your last entry, Naomi. A pit of remembering and understanding sat solid in my heart. I love you all and know that somehow God will carry each one of you. I know i can say that on behalf of Will, Corinne and myself, we understand and hold you before God as you let go. I'm sending a hug to each of you and pray that the Holy Spirit intercedes for you where words are impossible.
ReplyDeleteMuch love, Winnie Meerse
Lots of love and prayers from Squamish...We pray that God may place peace and comfort upon Pastor Bill, and also show your family an extra measure love and compassion as you go through this difficult time.
ReplyDeleteLove, Darrell & Adrienne
When Eric and I went to VGH to visit Pastor Bill, the one prayer request he had for us was that he would remain strong in his faith and character through the pain. He said, "I know pain can do strange things to people." He was so aware of the attacks that he would face during his dark hours. I am thankful that he was able to be open with us so that we could pray for him specifically.
ReplyDeleteWe will pray the same for all of you as you continue on this journey.
We had a similar conversation as Jacky's with Pastor Bill when we visited at VGH. We have been praying specifically for Bill's strength of faith and character. God is faithful.
ReplyDeleteKnow that we love you all and will continue to pray for you through this difficult time and for the weeks and months ahead.
The LORD bless you
and keep you;
the LORD make his face shine on you
and be gracious to you;
the LORD turn his face toward you
and give you peace
Love Paul & Leslie