Each week I want to provide a brief update on how we are doing. I also want to give you a sample of various moments, quotes, and verses that have helped get us through the week.
Update:
- On Monday, I completed my first round of chemotherapy. One down and eleven treatments to go! (Chemo happens every other week)
- I had no idea how long it took to administer the various drugs. It took about 5 hours for the whole process to be complete. I am so thankful for modern technology and for Jenny who was with me the whole time.
- The days following have been spent mostly in bed with my body figuring out side effects. I have had side effects such as nausea, bone pain, digestion difficulties, and other various issues (see below). I feel blessed that I don’t have more severe effects and believe this is a result of prayer.
Prayer requests:
- Pray the chemotherapy eradicates the cancer in my body.
- Pray that I know the Lord more deeply by meditating on his Word.
- One side effect is painful mouth sores that make it difficult to eat, talk, and sleep. I have developed them and would love for these to go away.
What I am learning:
- Cancer increases my opportunities for joy in Jesus.
- I have been learning to change my perspective on suffering. Instead of viewing every medical procedure as an enemy, it is crucial to view them as a blessing. Every time they want to stick me with a needle, it is for my good and an opportunity for joy. The side effects of the chemo are actually signs that I have received a good gift from God to help me. This change of perspective requires effort, faith, and repentance. It makes all the difference.
James 1:2–4 “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
What has been encouraging:
- The new album by Sovereign Grace called “Knowing God” seems to have been written for me.
- This album was released to celebrate the 50th anniversary of J.I. Packer’s modern classic book. The whole album is wonderful, and I have especially loved the songs Sing, Guide Me, O My Great Redeemer, and All Things.
Christ before me, Christ behind me
Christ within me every day
Be my path and prize forever
Jesus, guide me all the way
Unspoken 
Thank you for the update. I’m so glad you are at MD Anderson! They are wonderful. Praying for you and your family.
when I went through a cancer diagnosis last year… after the shock of it. I thanked the Lord for all the new opportunities to share him with the doctors and nurses and others I came in contact with! It was amazing seeing Gods hand in it al.lm praying for you also!
Sean, thank you much for sharing with us; you are such an inspiration. I know this has got to be a very rough time now; prayers will definitely be lifted. Will be praying for you and your sweet family; so happy you are part of First Baptist. You are a blessing!
Sean you have always been an inspiration to others through your strong faith. I remember what a great influence you were to others when you were in high school. God will be with you in this journey. Please know that I pray for your complete healing every day and for your family during this journey. Be strong and keep the faith. You have an army of people in prayer for you!
Ellen Deathridge(retired teacher from DCA)
Dear Sean,
We are praying for your complete recovery and for relief of all yucky side effects. I know the love of your sweet family, your faith in God and your positive attitude will carry you through . May God bless, comfort and strengthen you all.
Love , Kathi and Bob, friends from Sheffield Park
Sweet Sean, I am ,of course praying to God for your healing. He knows where you are and what you are going through. These statements are not just platitudes. He has promised in his Word that he will never leave us nor forsake us. I love your attitude and how much you love Jesus. I love you, my dear, SO BIG!!!!! GRAN
Whenever I go through painful and difficult times with my chronic health issues, the Bible (first!) and music/lyrics that Keith Green and Rich Mullins really soothe my soul. Daniel and I will be praying for you! If you guys ever need anything like babysitting, chore-doing, or food, let us know!