Maggie is recovering from her needle biopsy at our hotel. The procedure went off without apparent complications. We’ll continue to take it easy here tonight and return to Hattiesburg tomorrow. This was her first of three biopsies this month, and she found it to be only mildly uncomfortable. We were told yesterday they planned to extract a small sample from a lymph node near the kidneys. We were relieved they were not going to stir up the tumor/node wrapped around the bile duct. We’ve had enough trouble out of that whole region. We are most impressed with the wisdom of their choice, and Maggie is clearly impressed with the set-up: facilities, technology and staff. She’s quite the expert in Interventional Radiology techniques, so MDA staff should feel proud. We anticipate returning next week to officially begin the clinical trial. We’ll keep you updated regarding plans once we have them.

It’s June already? Where does the time go? Wait, I know the answer for the Hanberry family. We’ve spent much of our time lately in some form of transportation to or from a clinic or hospital or actually in a clinic or hospital – usually waiting. If that were all we had to show for our days, I think we would be, and have a right to be, discouraged. But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place. 2 Corinthians 2:14. Our simple prayer is to continue to smell sweet wherever He sends us. It’s not always easy. And we’re not always able to live up to that desire. But we know if we are able to leave only a hint, a whiff, a whisper of His love, we are satisfied.

One way we are coping here in Houston is to get out and see the place. We love the Hermann Park area and the museums in the neighborhood. Yesterday we visited the Health Museum because Maggie wanted to see the 27 foot colon model. Little did we know  how appropriate this would turn out to be. The model colon was a virtual PSA for colon screening. Here is a photo of Maggie doing what she does best –  putting the best face on colon cancer.

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Yes – humor helps us keep our sanity. We thank the Lord for the gift of laughter. We had hoped to pay a visit to a giant liver at the museum for a photo. Maggie wanted to send one to her soul sister Noelle (here at Texas Children’s Hospital). Just between us, she also wanted to stick a needle in it. Maybe the museum’s liver was sent in for repair, too, because we didn’t find one.

Whether it’s clowning around with a replica or being poured out as a fragrant offering to draw others to Christ, Maggie is making the most of a difficult path. I’m thankful to be a part of His plan for her.

Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Col 4:5