The Discovery Cruise

Months ago Linda and I had arranged to go on a much-anticipated cruise to the western Caribbean leaving January 25, 2008. Then just two weeks before the cruise we learned that I needed to undergo surgery for a tumor of my parotid (salivary) gland. The risk of post-poning surgery (ONE of us felt) was greater than the risk of delaying the cruise, but when we finally tried to cancel, we discovered it was too late and we would forfeit the entire pre-paid amount.

In the meantime the pre-operative workup led to an unexpected discovery that there were numerous small tumors spread throughout my body. On January 24 enough information had been gathered to make it clear that the proposed surgery would not be helpful and the operation was cancelled. My oncologist advised: "Go and enjoy yourselves! You will need the R&R for what lies ahead."


The trip was a gift from God! How many people do you know who are told they have disseminated cancer and immediately get to go on a cruise??
We thoroughly enjoyed the precious time with each other and our dear friends, Paul and Judy Spoelman. I had enough energy to do a myriad of fun things including snorkeling, zip-lining through the jungle canopy, cave-tubing, dancing and dining with my Linny.


During the cruise, the results of a liver biopsy proved that the cancer is an aggressive form of malignant melanoma. Since returning from the cruise, the physical effects of this rapidly spreading malignancy have zapped me of energy so that it became clear that I could not return to full-time practice. Fortunately, one of my colleagues, Dr Sheri Marshall, a very competent and caring family physician, has made herself available to manage my practice while we search for a permanent replacement.

I have completed many imaging studies and will soon consult with a specialist at the Melanoma Center at the University of Virginia. I cannot tell you yet about a specific prognosis or treatment options.

I want you all to know that I am confident in God’s goodness and that He let’s nothing happen to His children except that which first passes through His loving hands. We are fully dependent on Him and looking forward to the things He is going to show us through this experience. I commented to Linda that He must really trust us to allow such a challenge. Regardless, Linda and I and our daughters covet your prayers for grace, courage, wisdom and strength.

I will keep you posted as I learn more.


Dan