Monday, December 19, 2016

An Early Christmas Present… My PET Scan is Clear

12/19/16 – What better way to kick off the Christmas season than with the news that the PET scan I had today was all clear and that my MCL is still in remission. I met with Dr. Goy today and you can truly see the joy on his face when he is giving great news like this.

Whenever I am asked what I want for Christmas my standard response is always:
Peace on Earth”. Saying this I am thrilled with this fantastic early Christmas present.

Now, I won’t lie… I absolutely love celebrating Christmas. It’s a time to be with friends and family, to spread love and cheer. It is a time for us to rediscover our inner child and a time for charity, kindness, goodness, peace, love and joy.  AND… it is a time to be Santa Claus to others… and Santa, he sure is one heck of a guy… he is really the only folk hero we have who's male, doesn’t carry a gun, and is all about peace, joy, giving, and caring for other people… BUT even Santa would tell you that Christmas is not about him. Santa brings presents to well behaved girls and boys as a reminder of the birth of Jesus Christ.  In truth… Christmas itself is really about a big present that God gave the world over 2000 years ago - Jesus!

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year.

As for getting back to my health update… I have my next follow up on January 24th to see where I am with MDS. I also have a follow up PET scan scheduled for June’17.

And back to Christmas cheer… one of my favorite lines from a Christmas movie is when Buddy the Elf says: “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” (from the movie “Elf”). Below are YouTube links to some great renditions of Christmas songs that you are sure to Enjoy.

“Heart of Christmas” by Matthew West

“Jingle Bell Rock” by Jeremy Camp

“Noel” by Chris Tomlin featuring Lauren Daigle

“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” by Mercy Me

“Joy To The World” by The David Crowder Band
  
“Angels We Have Heard On High” by Third Day

“Go Tell It On the Mountain” by Pentatonix

For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord.
And this will be a sign for you: you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.
Luke 2:11-14

More to come…

http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

A Cure for Clara – GM1 another terrible disease that impacts little children

12/14/16 – I typically keep my posts on this blog to my health journey but I did want to share a story of my little cousin Clara and the incredible challenge she faces with a disease called GM1. During this holiday season, it is hard to not think about my cute little cousin and the battle that her and her family is going through to get a cure for her. This is a rare progressive disease that is curable… but it is not cheap and any help you can do by sharing her story is greatly appreciated. And donating to her cause… every little bit helps. No donation is too small. 

My holiday wishes, hopes and prayers are with my cousins Jenny and Ryan (Clara’s Mom and Dad) and Melinda (Clara’s Grandmother) and most of all Clara...that they get everything they need to move forward with getting this beautiful little girl cured. 

Take a look at this video. It gives a wonderful view into this beautiful family. This YouTube Video is called “Bragg Family Video - For Clara” and here is a link to it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xu9adb7E39o

Also, here is a link to a Clara’s website: http://acureforclara.com/

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.
Psalm 127:3

More to come…

http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/