Hearing the ‘C’ word is hard to wrap one’s mind around

The encouragement, support and prayers that I have received since learning earlier this month that I have colon cancer has been heartwarming and comforting.

I learned of the nasty cancer during a colonoscopy at the Iowa Clinic. At the writing of this column, I will be operated on at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines later this month.

The surgeon will perform the surgery with the aid of a robot. The technology that is available in the medical field is quite amazing.

I’m expected to be in the hospital until I am able to eat solid food. I’m hopeful to come home in a few days.

According to the surgeon, this is a routine surgery that he does often, and both Debbie and I are confident that all will go well.

I’ve spoken to some who have had this type of surgery, and all have gone on to live healthy lives. That is what I am expecting, too!

One person I spoke to said her husband had colon cancer and he has been going strong for 18 years. Another said their sister had the surgery and she is doing great some 15 years later.

I’ve lost around 80 pounds in the last 10 years, from my heaviest at 352 pounds. It hasn’t come off fast or easy. I’m working hard to eat healthier and it is bring positive change.

This cancer journey came about in early December when I began experiencing stomach pains. I visited my doctor, then a specialist in the endoscopy department at the Iowa Clinic Feb. 7. That led to me having a CT scan in late February and the colonoscopy earlier this month.

Drinking that nasty clean-out solution is no picnic. It’s the worst part about the ordeal.

I do not know any other details of the cancer, but I am thankful that it was discovered at what I believe is an early stage.

When the surgeon told us that I had cancer, it was a shock and a tough pill to swallow. My first thought, “I’m going to beat this.”

Growing up, I would have never thought about getting cancer.

Outside of a few rare cases, my family doesn’t have a long history of the nasty disease. My mom had breast cancer that ended up spreading in her body. She passed away in September 2009 from complication of the disease 12 years later.

I’m proud of the fight she put up and more proud of her stance in life. My parents taught me so much, including the importance of keeping the good book in my heart and mind.

It’s kept me out trouble, encouraged me, guided me through my challenges and dreams and kept me moving forward in life.

I’m thankful for all the life experiences along the way.

Here is what some of my friends and family wrote about this cancer journey.

“We are praying for you and believing that you’re going to be well again,” my cousin in Arkansas wrote. “We love you, J.O.”

Another cousin told me not to be a tough guy and to ask for help or pain medicine if I need it. He then went on to share about his health journey. I think he should write a book.

“You will be fine,” he said. “Try to enjoy the rest.”

“You will surely be in our prayers and I will believe for the hand of God to reach down and touch you,” a school chum wrote.

“Please take care of yourself and fight through,” another cousin said.

“I have full faith that you will come thru it with no problems,” a cousin in Oklahoma said.

“You and Debbie are in my prayers for a successful surgery and a complete and swift recovery,” a high school classmate wrote.

“Your health journey was my first prayer this morning,” an older cousin said. “I am glad you have a good faithful wife by your side to support you along the way.”

“I’ll pray for you and Debbie,” one cousin said. “Don’t worry about going under the knife, the doctors are pros.”

Another cousin in Florida encouraged me to stay strong and believe in the Lord’s power to heal. She suggested that I listen to a song “Peace in Christ,” by Claire Crosby, which I did.

“We will be here for anything you need that we can provide,” she added. “I know you have so much support around you.”

Another fellow and good friend took time during a visit on the telephone to pray with me. He said it was his best Methodist prayer, which made us both chuckle.

“Good Things are Happening,” a former classmate wrote me. “Believing with all my heart you will be good as new after the surgery.”

There have been so many kind words and prayers sent our way and I appreciate them all. I’m looking forward to beating this cancer and getting back to my love of life and newspaper work. I thank you for your support and prayers.

Have a great week, and always remember that “Good Things are Happening” every day.

(To send encouragement to J.O. Parker, email countynews@windstream.net.)