They say that most New Year’s Resolutions end on February. One starts on January, revitalized, ready to change, plans on new things, but eventually one get stuck from the same routine, same lifestyle, and no plans at all by the end of February.
2019 has been a roller coaster ride for me. When, I thought 2014 life events was heavy, 2019 said, “hold my beer!” And, it lifts off right straight to the top of the trail track at the highest speed possible, and then vertically drops back on earth, then it twists and turns that one’s innards becomes uncontrollable. Somehow, I manage to survived.
How? My faith in Christ. Despite leaving the youth ministry this year so I can focus on my health, my joy in times of suffering still conquers everything. When, I was young, I told Him that no matter what happens I will always praise His name. If I lose my voice, I will lift my hands, if I lose my hands, I will jump, if I lose my feet, I will roll over because nothing can stop me from praising Him.
Hillsong United’s Even When It Hurts, is the perfect song to describe my faith in Christ. I hope it blesses others.
I will give a short recap regarding some life events during 2019.
- Diagnosed with a form of rare blood cancer/disorder where my white blood cells, red blood cells, and mostly my blood platelets are elevated. Thus, causing major risk such as blood clots.
- Tested with different drugs, therefore, had to go through weekly blood tests for 6 months. Now, I only need to go every six weeks.
- Had to go through other tests to really confirm the diagnosis.
- Had a bone marrow biopsy to official confirm gene mutation that is causing my bone marrow to produce abnormal cells.
- Official diagnosis: MYELOPROLIFERATIVE NEOPLASM: Polycthemia Vera: STAGE 1 FIBROSIS. Or POST PV-MF Stage 1.
- Unfortunately, there is no cure, and it can get worse as I get older. But, after further research, I can also live a normal life with maintenance medicine. If it gets worse, then a stem cell transplant is an option.
- Had a summer heatstroke that ended in hospital for two days for evaluation.
- As of now, I am taking a gene inhibitor drug to stop my genes from producing abnormal cells called JAKAFI. The first three months were hard. My body was adapting. Now, I am getting used to it.
- Fatigue is my worst symptom or side effect. I learn that I need a nap to give my energy back. I also need to drink plenty of water, like Sea World Aquarium amount of water so I don’t get dehydrated. If I do get dehydrated, migraine ensues. I also have ringing in my ears, but I’m used to it.
- As of now, I am on weight and cholesterol management to avoid cardiovascular diseases. No more red meat and fatty food! JAKAFI is elevating my cholesterol despite diet.
- As of now, I am on a clinical study in which I can earn some few cash so they can use me as their medical guinea pig.
It is not as bad as I thought. The first few months were terrible but I am getting back into groove. Hopefully, there are no major negative changes, and I can be completely healed. Nothing is impossible!
My goals for 2020 are:
- Go to the Philippines, hopefully, this coronavirus will end soon.
- Eat healthy and maybe lose about fifty pounds of weight. The side effects of the medicines are not helping at all, therefore, I have to fight it through healthy diet and exercise.
- Blog more. My possible goal is at least once a month. I’ve been busy for the couple of months that it was hard to post and follow up my blog.
- Renew and build more healthy relationships.
- Go to Kids Camp this year!
- Preach again.
- Hike more.
I will share this verse from Psalm 37:1-6 to end this post:
Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun.
Provider's Hands, Heart, and Mind 