First Meeting with the Oncologist

Today Ryan had his first Oncologist appointment. Things went well and questions were answered. We still do not know what stage the Hodgkin's is in, there are more tests that need to be done to determine that. He had some more blood work done today, and will have a few other tests next Monday (6th) and Tuesday (7th). Ryan will also be having his Port (a small IV under the skin where treatment will be given, so not to prick his arm every time), Monday, April 13th.
His first chemotherapy treatment will be on Friday, April 17, 2009. There will be 4-6 cycles of treatment, which will be 2 treatments per month for the next 4-6 months.

We are still believing God for healing before treatment begins, but if that is not the route the Lord wants to take, then we will take it as it is, a trial, and our faith will not be shaken. God is in control! He is not surprised. Through this we will see miracles and more people come to know Jesus Christ!

Isaish 53:5
But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed.

Thank you all for your prayers and support. It is an overwhelming comfort in this time of uncertainties. We know God is listening to all the prayers and honoring those who are praying. We love and appreciate you all, even those who have decided to pray not even knowing us. You are a blessing!

Best blessings,
Ryan and Elanea

Showing Love Through Prayer

This is the five-year-old granddaughter of a family friend proudly displaying a sign she made just after praying for Ryan! In the drawing you may notice two circles with faces and legs. The one on the left is a dog and the one on the right is a cat...just in case you needed a clue beside the whiskers.

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.