"If cancer, okay."

As we approached the dermatologist's office, Russ prayed aloud, "If cancer, okay. We'll deal with this in faith." The doctor reviewed the results of the biopsy with us. It is malignant. This was a surprise to us, but not to God who loves us and grieves with us as we navigate through the challenges of life here on earth.

Russ has a large mole on his left ear that has been growing. When we were in the US this summer, Russ' mother urged us to get it checked. To make a long story short, it needs to be removed. Russ has been referred to a major university hospital in downtown Tokyo. Tomorrow he'll have a PET-CT scan to see if the cancer has spread and then we meet again with the surgeon on October 28 to schedule surgery.

Thankfully the cancer was caught in the early stages. Challenges include the size of the mole, his other disabilities, and the medications he takes. Please pray with us for successful surgery, that the cancer has not spread, God's continued peace in our lives, and that we'll be a light for Christ to those who do not have the hope we have.