"It's a gift!"
by Linda Moore
“It’s a gift!” my primary care doctor stated enthusiastically. I had just come from seeing my gynecologist who informed me that my pelvic ultrasound had revealed an unexpected, large suspicious mass on my kidney. After informing my PCP of the results by phone, I was called immediately into her office for an unscheduled meeting.
My doctor of over 20 years emphasized the positive. “Do you know that only 7% of all malignancies are found “accidentally”? We might not have known about this tumor for years, if you hadn’t had the ultrasound for other issues. Now we can deal with it. You have a right to be teary-eyed, though, I know this is hard news.”
It was hard and stunning news to be sure, because I had had no symptoms. But this was not totally unfamiliar territory either. In my twenties I had undergone three surgeries for thyroid cancer. I remembered the uncertainty, fears and questions that arose during that difficult time. However, I agreed with my doctor. This was indeed a gift, for I saw God’s providential hand at work in bringing it to light so unexpectedly. This “gift” however, wouldn’t have topped my “most wanted” list!
Three days later I was back for a CT scan. As I was instructed to lie down on the table, I noticed a well-lit, colored picture of the Nubble lighthouse positioned overhead on the ceiling. Someone had thoughtfully considered the patient’s state of mind and provided a welcome diversion. Various Scriptures sprang to mind; “The name of the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous run into it and are safe (Prov 18:10), “The Lord is my Rock and my salvation... (Ps. 27:1); “"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you...For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel your Savior. Do not be afraid, for I am with you (Is. 43:2). This medical procedure was transformed into a blessed time of worship for me.
Next, I met the urologist who came highly recommended. He said the CT scan revealed a large tumor that appeared “contained”. He said that 70% of all kidney cancers are successfully remedied by surgery alone. This was reassuring, however it was hard not to think about two friends that had died from kidney cancer. Surgery was scheduled for over a month later and although it was hard to wait, God fortified my spirit through His Word, prayer and the encouragement of family and friends. I was at peace resting and trusting Him for my future.
It’s been two months since my surgery. I had an unexpected detour that required additional hospitalization and has lengthened my recovery time; yet, I am praising God for His loving care. Months beforehand He began preparing me for this trial. He provided a skilled medical team to oversee my surgery, hospitalizations and recovery. And He used many of you to encourage me. The hundreds of emails and cards I received overwhelmed me. Knowing many were praying was strengthening indeed. Thank you!
The most unexpected gift, however, came from hearing the pathology report. Although my surgeon’s preliminary assessment was that the tumor was not only malignant, he believed it was an advanced stage of cancer, but as God would have it, the tumor was benign! Eighty-five percent of all kidney cancers are malignant, so this was not even on my list of possible scenarios. Additionally, only 5% of all kidney tumors turn out to be of the noncancerous sort that infected my body. My PCP told me in 35 years of being in the medical field, she had never seen one patient with this type of tumor! Won’t you join me in praising God for His wonderful provision? Eternal praise belongs to Him alone!
I am still processing His marvelous works and am in awe at His gracious compassion and grace. He has given me a renewed opportunity to joyfully serve Him and to enjoy all the blessings of family, friends and life itself. Yes, it’s an incomparable gift indeed!
Linda is currently enjoying sleeping in, reading and working in her yard as she is able. She is looking forward to soon taking walks with husband, Gary, and their dog, Charlie at Great Brooks State Park in Carlisle, MA. She especially enjoys time with her grandchildren and family. Linda is the Director of by design ministries.