And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people. ~Matthew 4:23
Previously on this blog, I've mentioned that my pulmonologist, Dr. Chan, has been a bit of a bear when it comes to having a biopsy of my lung performed. He is insistent that this procedure is the only fool-proof way to determine what caused my lung to be inflamed, inviting pneumonia in right through the front door.
I'm resistant to the very idea of such an intrusion, one that requires the surgeon to collapse one of my lungs. I think most of you would agree that it sounds pretty scary. Then, Dr. Chen sends me to Dr. Fortes, who specializes in this procedure, sometimes performing multiple surgeries in a day. He is able to explain the facets of this surgery to a degree that leaves Danny and me more at ease, reassured that this is not something to angst over. Because Virginia will be spending most of the month of June with us, I decide not to schedule my surgery until some time in July.
So, imagine my utter surprise and delight when I receive this email last week from Dr. Chan:
I had a chance to review the imaging in our advanced lung disease conference. Your lungs show emphysema rather than cystic lung disease. This is likely due to smoking and so, at this point in time, I believe you have two processes:
1. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis, treated with steroids
2. Emphysema
I do not believe you need a biopsy at this time. If you would like a second opinion at Emory, I would be happy to forward a request.
Thank you for your time,
Dr. Chan
HALLELUIA!!!
Isn't it amazing how God used Dr. Chan's professional colleagues to lead him to the conclusion I'd been praying for all along? And since I've quit smoking, the emphysema can't worsen going forward. I'm thanking and praising the Lord for all my many blessings, but most of all, I'm thankful that He has chosen to heal me in such an unexpected, miraculous way.
What are you thankful for today?
Amen!