Update on my father

Dear Family and Friends,

I have been mum about my dad's battle with cancer.  It has all happened so quickly and my mom and dad have fought so fiercely.  I just wanted to preserve my dad's privacy during his trial.  With recent developments, I want to share the following letter that my Uncle Rich wonderfully composed.  The following are his words . . .

Jim and Marlaine have consulted with the team of doctors and have explored all options available to best treat this very aggressive form of cancer. It has been determined that there are no viable options left to treat Jim and he will go on hospice care when he returns to his home later this week. Currently Jim is on a medication that will hopefully minimize the fluid build up so they can remove the tube from his stomach and nose and send him home. They hope to be home this weekend.


Jim and Marlaine have prayed for confirmation of their decision in conjunction with capable medical advice. They have demonstrated tremendous faith in the Lord and have always prayed for his plan to be made known to them. They feel good about their decision and trust in the Lord with all their heart.

Mark, Jim’s oldest son is with him now. Jim’s time here on earth is short and Jim wants to spend time with his children, grandchildren, mother, brothers and sister. The family has requested that if you feel inclined to write a note or send a card to Jim, now would be the appropriate time. In a few days, they will provide additional information for those of you who would like to visit with him. Please be sensitive to Jim and his family. Jim and Marlaine are so grateful for the thoughts, expressions of love and acts of kindness that have been administered to their family. Words cannot express their heartfelt appreciation for all of you.

I am so grateful for the knowledge that families are forever and there is a purpose to life and that God loves all his children. The following are a few scriptures that bring me peace.

“And again, blessed are all they that mourn, for they shall be comforted”

“Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest”

“The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord”

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life”

We love Jim and pray that he might be comfortable during his remaining days and that the Lord will bless him and his family.