Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Today was my regular radiation and some blood work to see how my blood cell counts are holding up.
I didn’t even need a jacket today as the temperatures climbed into the upper 70s. I walked for almost an hour after the doctors got done with me.
As I walked by the radiation building, I heard “Hey, Steve!” and at first, I thought it must be someone else. But, it was Gail from my hometown who was on break and came out for fresh air. We walked a few blocks together before she had to get back.
I stopped to browse in a book store. When I do, I get both excited (thinking about all the subjects I would love to learn more about) and discouraged (so many books, so little time!). But I did come home and spend time with the books I already brought, reading some theology, history, child care journals and a work on improving my management skills.
It’s a big help to have a book going when I’m waiting on an appointment or just feeling bored. The drain for me right now is more emotional than physical. Going through treatments day after day takes a toll on your psyche, even when the body is feeling OK.
Fr. Steve, Sounds like you are getting along good, keep up the good work. Keep yourself busy I guess that really helps. God Bless, thinking about & praying for your quick recovery. Your friends Angie & Kenny
JMJ / MMM 1 April 2010 100401
Hi Father Steve —
Thanks for your updates. You are a people person, just like Jesus. That’s good.
I do understand that your psyche is being battered moreso than your physical body, although I suspect that also has its times.
You mention books — an always sacred topic for me. I am always humbled by the extraordinary abilities of the best writers, by composers of music, by performers.
I suggest a novel to you by Morris West. It’s LAZARUS (about Pope Leo XIV, about forty years after Vatican II). Remember THE SHOES OF THE FISHERMAN? That’s Morris West. THE CLOWNS OF GOD? That’s Morris West.
For more than two years now, day and night, I’ve been suffering abandonment by the human being to whom I gave all, my wife Kathleen (Katie). I won’t stress all that because I want to share with you two things (among many) that God has used to keep me going, walking by faith.
1 — The passage may be disputed but it means to me, “Yes, Lord, even though You slay me, yet will I trust You.” Job 13:15.
2 — I have used the words of the Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas, in a way he didn’t intend. Dylan= (Defiantly) “Go not gently into that dark night!…” I have baptized his words and tell Jesus, “I will go gently into this dark night.”
I just wanted to share a couple things with somebody, and, although I can share many things with a few people who love me, I cannot share what is deepest in me. So, I just wanted to share a little with you.
I ask Jesus to take possession of you, Father Steve, and to heal you emotionally and physically and mentally — and to ever fill you spiritually with the All that God gives us every instant.
Just Bless me and my wife Katie, Father. That’s all, just Bless us. John
It’s just good to know that you are staying out of trouble..!
I found some good books myself yesterday..I call them my “little pile of treasure”..
Robert is having some diagnostic work done this week. If it turns out to be cancer, then he will probably look into Mayo in Rochester for treatment. We like what we hear from you a lot better than we like what we hear from my cousin who is being seen for her cancer (lymphoma) at Johns Hopkins.
And know this..Robert is getting some books to take with him…so do you also work in advertising, Father..? Maybe you should…! Ha ha
Don’t take any wooden nikkels..
Mia and Bob
Father, I am sitting here staring at the computer trying to think of the right words to say, when in reality the words: Faith, Courage, Hope and Healing are what I keep “hearing”.
We continue to pray for you every day and know that God has you in the palm of His hands and is working behind the scenes. Keep believing and trusting (sometimes easier said than done), but remember your words: LET GO AND LET GOD. Been there;done that. It works!!
I am continuing to pray for you. During this Holy Season, you are remembered especially. God bless you and take care of you. Put yourself in our Lord’s hands. You are being given a gift to witness to all of us. Easter blessings…..Rozanne
Hi Fr. Steve –
I come here to see how you are doing & come away each time admiring & marvelling at your positivity & courage.
I have the same feelings about books – I have a pile of about 30 that I want to read! It seems every time I finish one, two more catch my attention.
I’m glad you are able to walk & enjoy the wonders of spring – it is my favorite time of year! I keep you in my prayers & wish you a Blessed Easter!!
Susan
Father Steve, I’m so glad to read how well you are tolerating your treatments – this is something I’ve been praying for. You have such a positive attitude, that is going to make a tremendous difference in your recovery! I know all the students miss you, and are anxiously looking forward to your return to the school. Keep up the good work!
So glad that you keep us posted on what is going on in your life. You sound like me in a bookstore, so many books so little time! Keep the good attitude and we will keep you in our prayers.
God Bless
HAPPY EASTER Father Steve
You are truly an amazing perso
Thank you for being you…GOD BLESS.
Praying for your quick and complete recovery.
lhj
Each morning, when I get up, and each evening before going to bed I asked for the intercession of Fr. Vincent Capodanno on your behalf and for 3 family friends who also have cancer, one who is only 24. Fr. Capodanno, a former Maryknoll missionary to Taiwan, is a Servant of God. He was a naval chaplain during the Vietnamese war, and earned the congressional medal of honor, trying to shield a dying 19 year old naval medic. Father was hit with 26 bullets from a vietnames machine gunner in his back as he tried to protect the young medic. There wasn’t a marine in the 1st division who would not have taken the bullets for him. God bless you.
I know the Red Sox are not your favorite team, but check this out if you have a chance:
http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/extras/extra_bases/2010/04/video_5-year-ol.html
It will make you smile!
Keep your chin up, and remember we are all pulling for you!