Faithful In Prayer

Today, Ryan Deal found out that he has cancer. Hodgkin's Lymphoma. That is the type of news that knocks the wind out of the lungs of not only the recipient, but an entire family.

When Ryan's mother, Brenda, and I communicated about starting a prayer blog for Ryan and his bride Elanea, Romans 12:12 came to mind. The well known version from the NIV is this blog's theme verse, but it also reads beautifully from The Message.

Be joyful because you have hope. Be patient when trouble comes, and pray at all times. Share with God's people who need help. Bring strangers in need into your homes.

This blog has been set up as a place for prayer and encouragement. I will be posting updates about Ryan's progress until he and his wife, or his mother, feel able to take it over.

Here is some information written in letter form from Ryan's mother.

Ryan's test results came back today. He has Hodgkin's Lymphoma. At this point he doesn't know which stage it is in. Ryan said that he didn't ask questions, he just listened to what the doctor. He has to go to another oncologist on Tuesday, March 31 to determine a treatment plan. His current doctor explained that the treatment would include either chemotherapy (and) or radiation.

Thanks for your prayers and concern. Right now I am asking all of you to please pass this along to all of your friends and family members. It is my hope that people in every state (and even people from other countries) will be praying for Ryan and his wife Elanea.


We all appreciate your support and prayers.

Brenda~

If you are praying for Ryan and placing him on prayer lists, will you please let the family know this in the comment section? I know it will provide encouragement.