Shoes on the Floor
Many have asked how Simon is at this moment. He is in abdominal pain daily and has trouble being comfortable when he sits or lies down. He has a variety of pain meds and is figuring out what the right combination is. The best words to describe his attitude are reflective, peaceful, and, as always, no-nonsense. If you know him and he likes you, then all is pretty much the same. If you were to come up to him and give him a sappy, inauthentic pity party, he would probably tell you to go away. If you were to say something really stupid, I can’t guarantee it would end well. But it would have gone that way before cancer, too.
His first oncology appointment was this past Tuesday. We were told actual numbers, like the normal liver tumor marker is in the low hundreds and his is in the high seven hundred thousands. We learned that his Hepatitis C levels are still undetectable but that prior flare ups were enough to cause the damage that caused the cancer. His liver is still functioning and may tolerate medication that slows tumor growth and buys us time. We will begin second opinion appointments next week. All the good and ugly medical facts aside, Simon is still Simon. He has his soul. He has his sense of humor. His hands are warm and rough. He works around the house and chats with visitors, just needing more rest time in between than a few months ago. And he still leaves his shoes on the floor in random places where I will inevitably trip over them. I used to get mad. Now it makes me smile.
We took the kids to see How To Train Your Dragon 2 yesterday. The dad of the main character dies in the movie – he dies protecting his son from a dragon. Our daughter was concerned and wanted to make sure that the dad would go to heaven. I assured her that he would (hey, it’s a movie). Our son told Simon, “I know you would do anything to protect me from a dragon, too.” They were emotional for about five minutes and then moved on with the day. These moments may be God’s way of preparing their hearts for uncertainty. I can’t imagine exactly what goes on in Simon’s mind and I don’t know that he could articulate it. There are decisions coming up that are only his to make. Instead of advice or unsubstantiated medical claims, he needs prayer for discernment. And miracles. Our God is a big God.
Most of us know that Simon doesn’t like attention on himself but has deeply appreciated hearing from so many friends and family. He reads every email, listens to every voicemail, responds to texts promptly, and greets every visitor, We have heard from people on every continent (except Antarctica) that are lifting Simon up in prayer.
So we live. One day at a time. We keep our hope in the only One that can promise tomorrow.
Way to spoil that movie for us! 😛 I’m encouraged to hear about your family just doing normal family stuff and that Simon emotionally seems to be doing well. Glad to hear that y’all appreciate the contact from others, I’d been concerned about not wanting to overwhelm you guys with messages. But Meh y’all are good about setting boundaries if you need to. If I can think of anyone I might know in Antarctica, I’ll ask them to pray so we’ve got each continent covered! 😉 love you guys!
I love reading every post. Your outlook is so positive and full of truth. It’s very uplifting. Continuing to pray for you all. Love & hugs from Texas!
The shoes got me.
NO ONE FIGHTS ALONE! Covering you and yours in prayer!
I grew up with Simon, Sam, and Callie. I will be praying for your sweet family and following.
Praying for you and the kids! Laura and I have an army of Minnesotan prayer warriors thinking of you guys! (Minnesota is kind of similar to Antarctica right?).
Those precious shoes!! Shoes in the floor will always bring a very different reaction now. Thanks Kristy for sharing your beautiful words, amazing insight and abundant faith.
Much love, tight hugs, and many prayers are sent to all of you!
Leigh and Danny
Beautiful posting today. I am with Jill, the shoes got me. I am placing my hope with yours. God is forever mindful of His own. Praying each day for Simon, you, and your children. Praying for all who love Simon and long to see him well.
The pictuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuure.
Such a beautiful post Kristy.❤️
My children went to school with Simon, Sam, and Callie. My husband and Tom Caver grew up living side by side. We are praying for Simon and your family. We are members of FBC Atlanta and my SS is praying over you all as well.
Praying for you and the family! Much love to each of you!
Kristy,
Thank you so much for sharing these special thoughts, God has truly blessed Simon with a very special wife. Your are so right, “Simon is still Simon” this makes me smile because Simon has always been Simon and that is why we love him so much.
I think I tripped on Simon’s shoes at least once while I was there too!
I will pray as you have requested. Lord Jesus you say you give wisdom without finding fault, if we ask believing you’ll answer. I know Simon is asking. I know he is trusting and I know he will obey. Please attune his ear and heart to yours. Amen
Love you
We have a body, but we are a soul.
A wonderful way to now think of a pair of shoes. It is most definitely the little things. Thoughts and prayers are with you, Simon and you precious family.
deeply moved to prayer and tears. thanking HIM for your lives and believing with you that HE is in your tomorrows.