I thought the time between hearing from MDA and the actual departure day would drag due to our level of anticipation. Life has a way of chewing up the ticks and tocks, and here we are. We plan to leave mid-morning tomorrow for Houston. We’ll be staying within a mile of the MDA complex throughout our stay.

The days sped by quickly in large part because we were dealing with another kidney stone in Maggie. Monday Dr. Ross was able to locate and remove it via a scope procedure. We’re thankful her pain is now a memory, and she is busy packing. Maggie’s procedure required her to be sedated. Standard practice requires the nurses to ask medical history questions. We could answer them in our sleep, I do believe. What should be easy answers to routine questions never fail to elicit surprise morphing quickly into compassion as we explain. I’m always interested to watch the reaction of healthcare providers treating her for the first time. I relive some of my early emotions as I see them come to terms with the unexpected facets of her story. We always want to point to the amazing work of God through every detail. Sometimes we need say nothing more than God is good. Other times we share a bit more of our trust in Him to provide healing in the form He chooses to send. We pray for sensitivity to use every opportunity we’re given.

The weekend was not a total bust for Maggie. She used her time in bed scouting the numerous shopping/recreation venues in Houston. As she was sharing her “to do” list (otters at the zoo, the Galleria, an outlet mall), Phil reminded her “we’re going there to fight cancer.” She didn’t hesitate as she said, “But we gotta have some fun.” Amen. So we leave tomorrow to find a treatment plan and a little fun.

We’re not sure exactly what will do beyond our initial consultation with the doctor – a specialist in colorectal cancer. We were told to prepare for 3-5 business days in the area. We’ll keep you posted as we learn. Thank you for prayers as we travel, listen and ask questions, and make decisions vital to the future of Maggie’s care. Good-night.