Home for Christmas

Praise the Lord! David's operation yesterday went well. He was supposed to have his op at 10am but due to some mixed up, he ended being the last patient to be operated upon at about almost 1pm. By 4pm, he was out. Other than the pain caused by numerous pokes to insert the needle, he did not experience much pain. He was required to be warded for just one night and is now home. So glad to have him home with us.

Thank you so much for praying and now sharing our joy for the answered prayer. Please continue to pray for full speedy recovery.

As I look back, David was hospitalized almost every public holiday this year, so it is now indeed a great blessing to be home for Christmas.

We are grateful for every blessing we experienced which was made possible by the grace of God. It is especially so when we know the time we have is like "borrowed time". Such thoughts remind me to treasure and cherish every momemnt with David and other loved ones and be thankful for the joy of contentment.

May the Lord bless each of you greatly with the joy, peace and love of Christmas, made possible by God who so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son Jesus Christ, that whoever belives in Him should not perish but have eternal life.

Have a Blessed Christmas and a Wonderful New Year!

Abundant blessings & love from on High,
Whee Ling

Minor op on 21Dec

Greetings in the name of the Lord!

David is scheduled for a minor operation on 21Dec. The urologist advised that he would be warded for 1 day after the operation. Please pray for smooth successful op and speedy recovery. So, we will be home for Christmas.

God is good all the time!

God bless,
Whee Ling

Early Christmas gift

I am so happy, so so glad, so grateful, so thankful, so amazed at the wonderful hand of God at work in our lives. My mouth shall praise the Lord forever and ever! Praise the Lord!!! Hallelujah! I would have given a shout of joy if I can...but at the office right now so...

What is this Christmas gift? What is the good news?

I have just gotten news from St Hilda's Pri school that they now have a place for Joshua! Wow, praise the Lord! We have been fervantly praying about this and it is so wonderful to know that He has heard and answered this prayer!!!

Thanks also to all who have prayed about this with us. Sharing our joy with you!

God bless,
Whee Ling

How big is your God?

Sometimes I feel so burdened with so many needs in our lives, so many loved ones need healing, so many things and outcome beyond our control, so much concern and pressure... how about you?

During one of the recent family prayer meetings whereby needs were shared and prayed over, I felt God could and wanted to do more for us. Even after the meeting, I was moved with the Lord's compassion and reqested to pray for one of Joshua's auntie whom I felt the Lord wanted to heal and assure her of His love. BTW, I am not ususally like that. The Lord's presence was with us and we wept and prayed.

That night I asked Joshua during our bible reading time together, in a rather serious tone: "Joshua, how big is your God?" I gazed into his eyes anticipating an answer. He smile and said without hesitation: "Very big." I acknowledged that and said with an even more serious solemn tone: "You know, my God is very very very big." and thinking "so big that nothing is impossible for Him". It was as if I was telling myself more than telling him. Whereupon he looked at me and gave me a "I know what you are getting at" smile and replied with a laugh: "Ya, we have the same God Mom!"

With the built up faith, we prayed for those whom the Lord has laid upon our hearts who need healing that week, esp for this sister. Glad to share that she need not go for any surgery. Praise the Lord!!!

Why am I sharing this now? Guess I needed the reminder to pray in faith and trust the Lord as I bring before Him the following needs/burdens:
1. My mother-in-law's health. She has high blood pressure and is under medication for a long time but recently her pressure was very high, according to her it was due to the fever she had a few days ago.
2. My mother who is suffering from type 2 diabetes, was recently found to have arthritis - her knee hurt so badly she was limping. Her blood sugar level has been high at 11 for a while.
3. My sister has a cyst in her womb and may require surgery.
4. Joshua's P1 school
5. David's slightly blurred vision (he assures me it is getting better) and ulcers
6. A friend's pregnancy to be stable and baby to grow well

Often my problem may not be big but it casts a shadow that is much much bigger than it really is. In the perspective of Christ our Lord, the same problem may even be liken to grasshoppers in the sight of God. So, I am going to take heart for we have a God who is really really big! Blessed be His holy name!

He is able to heal and deliver!
With thanksgiving,
Whee Ling

How time flies

Wow, it has been more than 2 weeks since we last updated our blog! I kept wanting to write but just did not get around doing it - partly because I was very busy at work and partly because I could not update from the home notebook because David was also busy preparing his message. Sounded like an excuse so I have to admit that I procastinated...

I actually wanted to share thoughts and events as I felt led so many times in those 2 weeks and had wanted to testify of God's goodness. Writing in this blog has become a way we express our thanksgiving to God and praise His name besides requesting for prayers.

I will try to do so over the next few days. Now, for some updates on David. As I mentioned earlier, he is preparing a message. The Senior Pastor of the church we are worshipping has requested he share his story "How he walked through the valley of the shadow of death" with the church congregation this sunday. So, David as is his custom, has been diligently preparing for his message. He wanted to glorify the Lord's name and have been seeking the Lord for His word, insight, message and purpose as he avails himself to be His instrument of blessings. So much so that I, his sometimes "overly concerned" wife, worry if he has gotten enough rest.

Please pray that the Lord would use Him mightily this sunday to spread His message of love so those who suffer in similar or other ways. Pray that those who hear his story would be encouraged and find hope in our Lord Jesus too.

David's health has been improving. Even when he stands next to someone who coughs, he does not catch the infection so easily as before. He still has some ulcers in his mouth due to GVHD and slight discomfort in the sole of his foot (don't know right or left) when he walks, he is generally well and looks good. His medication has been reduced and we are really glad he did not have any complications resulting from that. His next medical appointment is on 04Dec. Do join me to pray for good medical results.

Joshua shared with me about his sunday school memory verse one day and I was blessed to be reminded of God's word in Colossians 3:17. It makes the work I do more meaningful and demands less daunting and help me to have a more thankful attitude.

May you be blessed too!

"Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:17

God bless,
Whee Ling

Overwhelmed!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi,
Thank you each and all for rejoicing with us! We are overwhelmed by the warmth and love of each of you - thru your sms-es; emails; calls.

Had been wanting to write but I have been very, very tired physically looking after Josh the whole day.Josh is really growing fast and spending time with him has been really fun and full of joy in the Lord. Been a 'houseman' is a priviledge that not all fathers on the face of this earth have. But I thank God for allowing me to do that so that I can do my best to 'reveal the Father's heart' (john 17) like Jesus did with His disciples when He was on earth.

Above all, thank our Good God for His constant grace upon us - for without that, I cannot imagine how we could have walked through the valley thus far.It has been a very lonely road for us. But I thank God for His abiding presence and the fervert prayers of many of you.

The journey isn't the end yet really. Am thankful for the BMA and M Band markers which indicate complete remission which means I can stop the last chemo that was planned. I believe God has healed and pray that there isn't any residual disease though the pain on the right ribs is still there. (pain score - about 3).Dr William thinks the numbness on the right leg that radiates to the toes could be due to the spinal decompression which has shrunk significantly. I will also be seeing the eye doctor in December as my eyes get very tired easily with slight blurring of vision.

Anyway, am rejoicing and grateful for all the Lord has done. I am also constantly reminded of Psalm 27:13-14 which the Psalmist said confidently, that he will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living as he waits without losing heart upon the Lord.

This same word was released to me in June this year at a seminar organised by Pastor Kay Chong in conjunction with a few godly ministers from International House of Prayer that came from Kansas City. In that seminar, our gracious God relaeased a very powerful prophetic word for me in regard to healing. It was the second word of prophecy that had been given to me - the first was in April 2004, 1 month after I left the pastorate in FCBC. God is so good to single me out in the midst of huge crowds just to give these words of prophecy. They have brought words of life into my being and spirit - knowing that I have a great Shepherd! And that had been enough for me to walk through these 2 years confidently and courageously.

God is sooooooooooooo good!
david

Complete remission!

Hallelujah!!! Praise the Lord!!! David is in complete remission!

So glad to be sharing this with you. His BMA result showed ~ 1% plasma cells - Dr William confirmed he is in complete remission. He need not go for another cycle of Velcade treatment. What wonderful news! His next appointment is in 5 weeks time - a "far cry" from his weekly medical appointment since Sep 2004.

What a relief! A time to celebrate! Hallelujah! His name to be praised forever and ever! Words cannot express our joy, our thankfulness and eternal gratitude to the One who made this possible! Also, to all who are instrumental in His divine plan - the doctors, the nurses, the prayer warriors, family, friends and everyone who in one way or another helped reveal His love to us.

The Blessedness of answered prayer is so well described by King David in Psalm 30:

"I will exalt you, O LORD,
for you lifted me out of the depths
and did not let my enemies gloat over me.
2 O LORD my God, I called to you for help
and you healed me.

3 O LORD, you brought me up from the grave ;
you spared me from going down into the pit.

4 Sing to the LORD, you saints of his;
praise his holy name.

5 For his anger lasts only a moment,
but his favor lasts a lifetime;
weeping may remain for a night,
but rejoicing comes in the morning.

6 When I felt secure, I said,
"I will never be shaken."

7 O LORD, when you favored me,
you made my mountain stand firm;
but when you hid your face,
I was dismayed.

8 To you, O LORD, I called;
to the Lord I cried for mercy:

9 "What gain is there in my destruction,
in my going down into the pit?
Will the dust praise you?
Will it proclaim your faithfulness?

10 Hear, O LORD, and be merciful to me;
O LORD, be my help."

11 You turned my wailing into dancing;
you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,

12 that my heart may sing to you and not be silent.
O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever.

Yes, we too give thanks to Him forever!

If you are in some kind of "night of weeping" situation, it is my prayer that you too find relief as you place your trust and hope in Jesus Christ our Lord. Look to Him, wait upon Him and cling to His promises.

Rejoicing in His goodness,
Whee Ling

Just finished BMA...

"Just finished BMA. Painful but bearable. Thx God its over!..." David's sms reads. Yes, thank God and praise Him indeed!!!

Rejoicing in His goodness,
Whee Ling

M Band marker

David and I went to the hospital thinking he has an appointment today but it was actually on Thu. We are so grateful that Dr William was so kind to see him, we couldn't thank him enough... We also want to thank Clarice, the nurse who informed Dr William of David's "plight".

So, we got the know the myeloma study result earlier. The M Band marker is zero. It is a good report. It means there are no cancer cells found. Praise the Lord!!! I asked if there is anything of concern and Dr William reassuringly said "no". However, David would need to do a bone marrow aspiration (BMA) on Thu. It would then be dependent on the bone marrow test result to determine if further treatment is necessary.

Please pray that the BMA will be done as painlessly as possible.

We are thankful for the good report so far and firmly believe there will be greater rejoicing and more thanksgiving items.
Praise the Lord his headache is also completely gone.
We also want to thank God for our darling boy.
A few days ago, while David was with Joshua, David vomited. He was touched by Joshua's caring words "Daddy, are you ok? I care you know" and was much encouraged by Joshua's words "remember God's promise, Daddy."

While typing this, Joshua wants to add some words:

I don't know what to say but I am glad that my Daddy is healed. from Joshua.

Thank God for you too, our prayer partners, our friends.
God bless!
Whee Ling

Full myeloma study

Greetings in the lovely Name of Jesus!

David does not have any medical appointment this week. In his last Monday's visit, a full myeloma study was done to determine if the next cycle of Velcade (chemo) is necessary. Please pray that his recovery is so complete that he need not go through another treatment. Pray also that he be relieved from his headache and possible sinusitis.

He was having headache last 2 days, probably in part due to the haze. Singapore has been blanketed by smog from forest fires in Indonesia and the PSI level has reached the unhealthy level of > 100 more than a couple of times already.

As for me, I was under quite alot of stress with demands at work and even had nightmares for 2 conservative nights last week. David heard my "struggles" and prayed for me. It was to me a reminder to draw near to God and to pray ceaselessly.

Be blessed as I have with the following passage from the bible, 1 Peter 5 v7-11:

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen." 1 Peter 5:7-11

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Wonder what is next?

David has his medical appointment this morning with Dr William. His platelet level was low from his last Monday's blood test. Hopefully his count is up. Really glad that he does not need to go for any other round of radiotherapy according to the oncologist friend who saw him on Monday. I wonder if he needs to have another cycle of Velcade. Please pray that his condition would improved so remarkably that it is not necessary.

"Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge." Psalms 62:8


Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

MRI result?

Not sure if the MRI result is going to be out today? David has an appointment with Dr William this morning but I still have not heard from him. He was having constipation for the last 2 days, likely side effects from Velcade treatment. Please pray that his system be cleared and there be no secondary problem of any sort.

"Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior,
who daily bears our burdens." Psalm 68:19

Thanks & God bless!
Whee Ling

A note from Josh

This is my favourite beagle!!!

josh

Paris, the beagle and Josh

  

My husband is too kind

David has put me in such good light that I felt I need to confess and give glory to God for any good thing that I have done. I was not exactly the "saint" he had described. I am just a sinner saved by grace who is learning to trust in the Lord to meet all our needs. In fact, I should have done much more than what I am doing - which is hardly anything. The nurses and doctors in SGH would have agreed with me he is very much a DIY (do it yourself) person, not wanting to bother others too much. Always so considerate and thoughtful. I hardly need to help him to his medicine or packing/unpacking his bag for hospitalization or planning his menu. This care giver - me, hardly provided much care except praying and trusting God and trying not to nag and be a good mother to Josh. If I had done anything right, it is the grace of God and the guidance of His Holy Spirit. I really cannot claim any credit at all and so all glory goes to our wonderful Lord Jesus, our God and Father!

And, he was not the "monster" he claimed to be at all. For all he is going through, I am amazed he hardly ventilated on me. Of course, there were frustrating moments when expectations were not managed properly, I sometimes felt really sad I could not share all his sufferings and feelings of loneliness he must have felt at times in battling the illness. I guess it is an experience only those who have suffered could better comprehen. But I take comfort in knowing he is never alone and that what people cannot do for him, our Lord Jesus can!

Oh ya, I think I forgot to mention the card I received was personally made by my beloved husband. How not to be touched right? It helps when he has this creative knack in making beautiful cards.

Regarding the dog, other than being afraid of its overly friendly disposition, the licking and the possible scratching (it actually scratched Josh's face leaving a long red mark on his face which took a while to disappear and Josh explained it off saying it was his fault for getting too close to the beagle, not hers!), it is also the hygiene problem that I was concerned with. I pained my heart too to see Josh being so sad but I prayed for wisdom and I stood firm with my decision that the dog has to go. I explained to Josh I had this fear of dogs and he immediately prayed for God to take away the fear. I assured him God will when the time is right.

Yesterday, David had his 4th dose of Velcade. He was not feeling too well last night, had mild fever at 37.5 but blood pressure was ok. He also had slight headache this morning. Called him just now, he said feeling better already but still very tired. Please continue to pray that his health be restored completely and also for excellent MRI result.

Heartfelt thanks,
Whee Ling

2 Years Liao!

Dear all,
I was surprised that Whee Ling shared about the card. I am not that romantic sort, but I think she has done so much for me. In this walk thru the valley of the shadow of death together as a family, she has sufffered much as a caregiver too. If only you know how this monster has ventilated much of my pain and misery on her, you will see the strength and inner beauty that this godly woman has! So much so, that I've stopped nagging about petty things at home like when she forgets to off the lights when not in use most of the time!!!
Guess I value the relationship more than the lights. I must say that when I stopped nagging, she has also improved tremenduosly! So the little card was just to appreciate her for going through so much with me. She wasn't bitter, she made me better!

I shared with josh about the card. Jokeingly I said,'that's the way to handle the woman in your life'. He laughed! And said, 'ya lor'. Must start young!

The other day, Josh was soooooooo sad and cried very badly when mummy refused to let him keep a beagle that someone wanted to give away recently. We had her for several hours and Josh loved it so much. His wish was shattered when mummy returned. It was too big for her. So, we returned it and Josh greived for many days and eventually got over it after a good closure by visiting it for couple of days to bid goodbye. Innocently he commented,"next time I must marry a wife who loves dogs!".

That started me thinking. There are many differences in my marriage. After a while, the differences attack instesd of attract. It can be depressing at times when you don't share similar interests and look at things with likemindedness. but at the end of the day, when one is down with cancer, the way we look at things will change. David look at God instead of Goliath when faced with such a 8-foot tall giant. He looked at Goliath from God's perspective.

Whee Ling has been through much with me in this valley. We've walked through the sadness, difficulties and moments of darkness in this journey. She can choose to leave but chose to walk together in sickness or in health. I think I owe her too much. The little card was not enough to repay her for what she's done for me in loving me. It was not sent to manipulate her, but to make her the greatest person and soul-mate that God has given in my life! Loving dogs does not mean I love her lesser. And whether she likes dogs or not doesn't matter anymore- maybe a smaller breed still can lah for Joshua's sake! Most importantly, Josh knows that he will marry a girl loves her husband like his mummy who loves his daddy.

Thank you for following our journey as we journal. We are putting our journals in a book that will be co-authored by an old church friend.His name is Thomas Chong, from Bethesda Katong Church. It was he who sparked me to put our journey into a book to identify with those walking thru different valleys in their and to inspire, impact and influence each reader to look to the sovereign maker of our lives.Thus , we covet your prayers for us to tie the pieces together to magnify the Lord in this. Hopefully, it should be out by early December.

I am wriiting from home at this very moment. Was discharged yesterday as Whee Ling has mentioned.Understand her concerns but I am fine by God's grace. Compared to the last 2 cycles of Velcade/chemo given, my tolerance to the drug so far has been much better. I had fever, severe malaise; ulcers and peripheral neuropathy where my extremities(toes and fingers)went numb with occasional cramps. It is much lesser this time and is bearable, though with increasing doses (so far 3 in this 3rd cycle), I get very tired. A prodromal flu was coming 2 days ago but with much rest it seems to be disappearing. I have been sleeping a lot but it helps. Am also very glad to be home-there's nowhere like home where you can smell your own pillow!! And see your loved ones!

Once again, we Appreciate all your sms-es, calls, emails and visits by close friends at the hospital.

Through these 2 years, God has revealed so much of His goodness in our lives that we've often failed to see. These 2 years had been one of the worst years in my life, but they are also the best years in my life because I have tasted the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.

Thank you for walking with us through this valley - your prayers, your presents and your presence enable us to walk through........ very soon, we'll see the mountain together!

david

Surprise surprise ?

Surprise surprise ? David can be discharged today! Even though the MRI result is not out yet and there should be another IV (intravenous drip of Velcade) on Thur, his blood platelets level is good enough for him to be home. He just needed to do the IV as outpatient on Thur. I guess the MRI result may be available then. He is driving himself home (insisted that I should continue with my work), so please pray for journey mercy.

Thanks alot & God bless!
Whee Ling

Going for MRI now

Just received an SMS from David that he is going for MRI now. Called him a couple of minutes ago and he was in the waiting room. The whole process may take over an hour. Please pray for excellent result that there be 0% myeloma cells, for completle restoration.

I did not expect the MRI to be so soon and suddenly felt very anxious... may the Lord guard our hearts and mind in Christ Jesus...

Home leave during the weekend

It was really good to have David home last weekend, even though he needed to "check-in" around 10pm every night. He was rather tired and slept most of the time while he was home, probably due to the effects of the Velcade and other medicine he was taking. We went to church on Sunday and that was about the only public event as the possibility of him picking up infections in crowded places cannot be underestimated.

His platelet count is expected to drop significantly this week so do pray with me that it would still be at a safe level, no need for transfusion and on complications at all. I know God is in control but as our Pastor reminded us not to take God's protection for granted, we are to pray for protection and deliverance from evil. This is evident in the prayer our Lord Jesus has taught us to pray in Matthew 6:8-13:

"for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
"This, then, is how you should pray:
" 'Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one."

Dr William has advised that he may or may not have the next Velcade treatment depending on the next MRI result. Witnessing how he grimaces in pain this morning when the needle is pierced into his skin for the intravensous drip (sometimes the nurse/doc requires numerous attempts because his veins tend to "run" or "collapse"), I earnestly seek the Lord's mercy to give him a clean bill of health soon, to deliever him from the pain the suffering, to release complete healing as we gaze upon the cross - the finished work of Christ in redemption, healing and deliverance. Please join me in prayers and supplications.

With heartfelt thanks & gratitude,
Whee Ling

What is the best thing for you today?

"What is the best thing for you today?" - this is a question we often ask each other at the end of day. We would then take turns to share and give thanks. If we were to ask Joshua this question before bedtime, he would refuse to answer saying "that is for tonight!"

For me, yesterday's "best thing" was the pleasant surprise I had when I received a lovely "Love you!" card mailed (snail mail) to my office from my dearest husband. He must have mailed it from the hospital. It was such a delightful feeling to receive the card and the message of love it brought forth, considering the thoughts and effort put in to design the card and the trouble to mail it, certainly something e-mail message could never substitute. David is a rather romantic fella esp during our courtship. I could always remember the things he did such as taking the train to KL to surprise me when I was there on a business trip, asking his friends to deliver snacks, waiting patiently for me with flowers... etc.

When I shared with Josh about "the best thing for me was to receive a card from someone who loves me very much", he asked immediately "God?" and thought perhaps not and suggested "Daddy?". He smiled so sweetly thereafter and I knew he was so happy for us.

Praise the Lord!!! David is ok so far, no side effects from the Velcade. He will be having his 2nd dosage today. Tahnks for praying.
God bless,
Whee Ling

In hospital for Velcade

Hi,
David started his Velcade yesterday. These last 2 or ? cycles of Velcade treatment is for consolidation - which I suppose was kind of tail end of the chemotherapy to wipe out all remaining myeloma cells. He is likely to be hospitalized for about 2 weeks or so. So far his blood count has been good, Praise the Lord! His did not cough much now. Thank you for praying for him all these while even though I have not been updating the blog more regularly than I ought to. I felt apologetic to those who have been faithfully checking our blog but found no new entries for quite a while - thanks for not giving up on checking to know what is going on in our lives.

As we come before our Lord, our Maker, with thanksgiving and petitions, please do remember to pray for:
1. David's blood count be good - it is an indicator that his bone marrow is healthy and well.
2. the Lord's protection over David as his immunity may be compromised by the increase intake of numerous drugs and steriods.
3. good desired outcome from the Velcade treatment, that no myeloma cells will reside in his body anymore in the name of Jesus our Lord and no side effects.
4. good sleep and rest and good nutrition from food he eats
5. close intimacy with the Lord and the ability to discern what His Holy Spirit is doing in him and others around him
6. him to be instrumental to bring hope, strength, peace,the gift of salvation (to those who have yet to belong to the Kingdom of Christ) and love of God to all.
7. grateful hearts and steadfast faith in us who are recipients of His grace.
8. Josh to be in good health and be able to experience the Lord's presence even as we cannot spend much time with him.

Thanks too for praying for me. My recent Jakarta trip was fine, and I am very thankful for the blessed time with my dear "old" friend - we have not seen each other for more than 10 years! It was wonderful to remember the good old days and count our blessings as we look back at our journey in life. Friendship is one of life's wonderful blessings and how much more wonderful it is to be a friend of God!

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Cough and headache

David was having headache again last night. This morning his cough sounded quite bad. He suspects he is having sinus problem again. Tomorrow is his appointment with Dr Willaim. He may start his next Velcade treatement soon but is subject to whether his cough may caused it to be delayed further. Praying for God to heal him of his cough and the root problem causing it and also that he will have his treatment at the appropriate time.

I will be going to Jakarta tomorrow and back only on Thu night. If in my absence he is to be hospitalized, please pray that David and Josh will be taken care of. Appreciate if you could also pray for journey mercy for my trip.

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Josh journals "what God says to me today"

  

Bali Trip-Wonderful time!

Hi all,
Really appreciate all of you for praying for us. We had a wonderful trip, although Josh has a taste of cultural shock in this beautiful island known as the'land of the gods'.

Bali is very deep steep in idolatory. You see people praying and offering incense everywhere and almost anytime of the day. There are so many figurines everywhere, practically in every household and shop. They look very scary to Josh and he became so afraid that he cried so badly on the first night when we had our family devotion. And he missed all his cousins and friends!

One of the things we observed was that they are very superstitious-believing a lot in luck. I realized that the primary motivation for their worship is to have wealth and health-which reminds me to come before God not just for His blessings, but to bless the Lord for being my maker, regardless of blessings.Whee Ling and I were glad that we were given God's wisdom to teach Josh to pray and bless the people in Bali to seek the true and living God.

We also had a great family time; great food and great shopping as well! We've not have had a trip like this eversince I stopped work.

Nevertheless, what delights me a lot was to see Josh's heart-he is so thoughtful that he wanted to buy little cute, nice souvenirs for his classmates. He even selected a nice, colorful necklace for his form teacher in which he ensures that he puts it in his bag this morning before he went to school.Josh also had a new spritual breakthrough - he has begun journalling what God is saying to him during his daily devotions as well as whatever the Lord may impress upon his heart during the day. I think it's wonderful to have a compilation of all the words and revelations of God to understand God's heart and to learn to live our lives wisely in this 'evil age', understanding clearly what the will of the Lord is. I guess, to Whee Ling and I, beyond all the 'best things' we want to give to Josh like any typical Singaporean parent would, the best thing we can give him is to teach Josh to hear God's voice and do the will of God in his life as he grows. Thus, please pray for us to be godly parents - to be so we need to be godly to exercise the Lordship and godliness in our own daily lives as well.

Thank you for sharing our lives in this journey!

"God speaks in the silence of the heart.
Listening is the beginning of prayer."

david

Holiday in Bali 2-pictures of Josh

  

Holiday in Bali

  

Going to Bali

Dear all,

We are going to Bali today! Hard to believe but its true. I am still in the office, updating the blog before I go home, finish off the packing and head for the airport for the 4:40pm flight with my beloved David and Joshua. We are finally having our little holiday. It was amazing how the whole trip was put together just last Fri afternoon. Even the travel agent was laughing at my last min attempt to make arrangement and said I was lucky but I promoted corrected saying "thank God" acknowledging it was possible because of the Lord. Praise the Lord for His wonderful love and provision for us!

Bali - I was a little apprehensive about going to that place due to the recent terrorists' attacks and also over the spiritual climate in a place full of temples and idolatry. However, I have much peace after yesterday's service. During worship, I had this wonderful thought that we will witness the beauty of God's creation in Bali and the most splendid thing is the Lord will be with us. May we also bring along with us the fragrance of Christ and bring blessings to all we meet.

Please pray for our trip, for protection and good health especially for David. He was coughing a little since last Sat and last night he had headache again. Thank God this morning he is feeling much better already. We do not want to take anything for granted and really appreciate that you can pray to our Heavenly Father, our Lord Jesus Christ that His Holy Spirit will work in and throug us, in Jesus' most precious name. Amen!

Thanks & God bless,

P/S: Good news from my friend regarding her son Jonathan. Praise the Lord his progress has been miraculous and he is home now after 30+ days in the hospital. Prais the Lord for His wonderful love and amazing works!
Whee Ling

MRI brian result

Praise the Lord for the good result of the MRI done during David's last hospitalization. The CT scan brain do not show any abnormality. His headache then could be due to the inflammatory sinus. His blood test result last Monday was also good with HB at 11 (normal range 14-18), PLT at 140 (140-440). Hallelujah! Priase the Lord!!! Thanks for your faithful prayers! May our faith increase as we witness His faithfulness.

David will likely be scheduled for the next round of Velcade in Sep. Before that, we are hoping to get away for a short break next week. But we have not made any plans yet! Sep will be a busy month - 1 week school holiday, David's velcade hospital stay and my trip to Jakarata for work in the 3rd week. Trusting God that somehow all things will fall in place. Please do continue to pray as the Holy Spirit leads us, pray with hope and rejoice with gladness.

Shalom peace of Christ be with you!
Whee Ling

My Father's names

Dear all,
Many of you read our blog more regularly than we update it.We are always very thankful for God's provision of people like you who care enough to stand with us throughout this journey. There were times when I 'feel' so cut off from people since stepping down from the ministry. We are very much 'on our own' but 'hearing from some of you from sms-es or emails for updates reminds us that we are not alone.

Dealing with losses in life had not been an easy road, especially for me. Often I feel bad having to drag Whee Ling along when we left FCBC though I knew without a shadow of doubt that it was the Lord's leading. Then the next blow came - my illness.

I share this not in regret or pain. God always turns what the evil meant for evil into good, simply because He is a very good God! There are so many things I have learned about losing - it is in losing that I gain. The greatest gain is a deeper knowledge of my maker.

I was reading a book on the names of God in the Bible during my recent hospitalisation. I learned more about the primary and compound names of God which gave me more insight into the person of God and how He cares so much for us.

Psalm 23 had been a great passage that I have treasured so much since my BMT - bone marrow transplant in June 2005. If you remember I shared about how I was in agony and anguish due to the chemotherapy, radiotherapy and the stem-cell transplant. I was crying out for the presence of God and that's where this psalm assured me that I need not 'fear evil' because He was with me. Through this book that I am reading, I received new knowledge of the attributes of God in a new way that has drawn me closer to Him in a new way - that He is not just a powerful God, but one who pastors us lovingly like a shepherd though He is Jehovah, the great I AM!

To end, I will list the traits of God in Psalm 23 here to let you appreciate the 8 wonderful aspects of God.

Psalm 23:
v1 The Lord is my Shepherd -Jehovah Roi- my Pastor

v2 I will not lack anything -Jehovah Jireh-my Provision

v2 He makes me lie in green pastures
He leads me beside the still waters
-Jehovah Shalom- my Peace

v3 He restores my soul -Jehovah Rophe-
my Physician/healer

v3 He leads me in the path of righteousness
-Jehovah Tsidkenu- my Path to Righteousness

v4 I will fear no evil -Jehovah Nissi-
my Protection/banner

v5 You are with me -Jehovah Shammah-
my ever-Present God

v6 You anoint my head with oil -Jehovah Mekaddishkhem
my Purifier/Sanctifier

My MRI results are still not out. Nevertheless, I will fear no evil beacuse He is my the great Jehovah who is powerful and personal, He cares and will lead me to where he wants me to be. For I know that his plans are not to harm or hurt me but to prosper me.

Our God is a good God! He is not one who takes pleasures in evil....Psalm 5:4

May God be specially revealed in you this day!

Thank you for praying and staying with us in this journey!

BTW, please feel free to write and contribute to our blog - it is not about us really, but about the sovereign One who watches over us each day.

love,
david

"It is the acknowledgment of our humanity and our frailness that places us in a position to have a personal encounter with the living God."

Discharged last Sat

David had his MRI done last Sat morning and was discharged later in the afternoon. Praise the Lord!!!

Headache gone, MRI tomorrow

Praise the Lord! David's headache is completely gone but he cannot discharge yet because the MRI is scheduled tomorrow Sat. Instead of just waiting in the hospital, he is given home leave, i.e. he can be home in the daytime but must be back in the hospital before 10pm. So, my dear husband is going to spend time with our precious son Joshua later. Too bad I cannot join them as I am not on leave...

Appreciate your prayer that his MRI on sat will be on as scheduled, that the result will be good, not because it failed to pick up any anomalies but that God has restored him to perfect health so there is no problem at all. Please also pray for protection in his going out and coming in from this time forth and forever. Thanks once again - may sound repetitive but it's heartfelt.

I also want to thank Pastor Patrick - David's "big brother" who so kindly helped David in the hospital admission registration yesterday which took over an hour. He is one of the great blessings in David's life and also Joshua's favorite uncle.

Also, we want to thank Dr William who has often gone beyond the call of duty in taking care of David's needs and concerns. Thanks for the memo!

Praise the Lord for His love and provision through so many of His saints.


God bless,
Whee Ling

Severe headache

"This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. Yes, rejoice in the Lord always and again I say rejoice." These bible verses reminded me to rejoice always regardless of circumstances. Can I rejoice today?

After more than 2 weeks of normalcy, David is back in the hospital today. Last night around 3am he suddenly had very bad headache. His blood pressure also shot up to 150,100. He vomited a little and was feeling giddy. Through it all, I was sleeping and did not even know he was suffering so much. I vaguely remembered asking him whether he was ok and muttered a prayer when he said he had headache. Little did I realise it was so serious and that his headache was so severe that his pain score was actually around 7 and the throbbing pain in his temple did not subside at all. I thought he merely needed more rest since he had not been sleeping much (approx 4 hours or so daily) due to the medication he was taking. Dr William admitted him for CT scan and MRI tomorrow morning. Please pray that the pain be gone and more importantly not just the outward symptoms but whatever root problem causing David's headache be gone in the name of Jesus. Pray for complete healing and restoration.

I have to trouble Pastor Adrian again to help send David to the hospital because I needed to run around trying to register Joshua for Pri 1. For those familiar with the Singapore Primary education P1 registration system, it was phase 2C supplement and I still could not secure Josh a place in any school. Our first choice is St Hilda's because we really wanted him to be in a Christian school whereby Christian values will be incalcated in him - that to us is more important that academic success. Though Christian values should be first instilled by us parents, we strongly feel it needed to be reinforced by the school environment as well. Moreover, his cousins (David's brother Roger's children) are there and it would be easier to make arrangement in times of need. Roger's family has been a great blessings in helping to take care of Joshua esp during David's frequent hospitalization. Really thank God for them! Please pray that somehow God will make a way to place Josh in a school of His choice.

Yes, I can rejoice because the God of hope can fill me with all joy and peace in believing, that I may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. I can rejoice because it is God who works in me both to will and to do according to His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13).

Am I worried? Yes, I was but Jesus said "Do not worry... who by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?" So, I shall not worry but trust and obey. Worry does not help but faithful prayer does. Thanks for your continual faithful prayers and intercession. May the Lord who is the author and perfector of our faith be glorified now and forevermore!

Rejoice in the Lord,
Whee Ling

Platelets not enough!

Dear all,
Thank God all my blood counts have been good. The platelets have also gone up from 90 to 94 today.But it is not good enough to have the next cycle of chemo/velcade next week.Good also - as I have been enjoying my morning devotions. I have been waking up early at 5.30am or there about just to pray.

Frankly, prayer is one of my weakest areas in my christian life.I can spend lots of time to read God's word, but I can be very distracted to do other things while trying to pray.That's why I decided to focus on praying alone for this time in the morning so that I can commune and intercede for the whole hour.

Taking this time to pray had been very enriching for me.Though I get tired by afternoon, the time spent praying early in the morning have quickened my spirit man to long and hunger after God, beholding Him in a new and fresh way to trust, believe and causing my faith to grow instead of just acquiring spiritual knowledge to puff up. What I find joyful is also learning to intercede for more people who are in need of the Lord's power in their lives - like the friends I got to know in the hospital with cancer; praying for my mother-in-law who has diabetes; for my sister's unsaved mother-in-law who is very ill with cancer. Standing with them in prayer as people like you stand with me gives me the strength to believe what God can and will do beyond what medical science can do for our God is far greater than science. Above all, to pray and see the deliverance of God in bringing salvation to the hearts of those I'm praying for daily.

It was a great joy to be praying with a friend of late for her grandma. She had cancer and was critically ill. In our desperate cry for her salvation, we prayed in the spirit for her beyond what we can pray in the natural and with understanding. Our God of mercy rescued her not only from physical death, but saved her from eternal condemnation as well. in her last few weeks before she was eventually called home, my friend experienced the goodness of the Lord in seeing how God in His mercy brought salvation to her grandma. We believe that happened because we interceded in the spirit when we thought there was nothing else we could do anymore.That's when the Holy Spirit took all over and prayed on our behalf according to His will.

Sometimes I do not know how else to pray when I see in the natural the condition of the people that I am interceding for. but knowing this truth about praying in the spirit to allow the Holy Spirit to take over sets my heart free to just pary and let God do the rest....including the salvation of those we're praying very hard for. He is in control and will not disappoint us. After all, He desoires that none shall perish.so, I am going to pray till it happens! till things happen! That includes my own health!

Be blessed,
david

So far so good! Awaiting next round of Chemo.

Hi all,
It was a great relief to know that all the tests done to ascertain if there were any neurological defects in my brain were negative, except for a little nerve sensation deficiency in both toes probably due to the drugs. Dr William was concerned that I may have a seisure because I experienced bad cramps and it was unilateral on the right side of my body.

My platelet count last taken on Monday has gone up from 55 to 90.Priase God. As I will be going for the next 2 cycles of Velcade to consolidate the whole process of my treatment thus far, it is safer for the plateletes to be higher. Will be seeing Dr. Hwang again on Tuesday, 8 August 2006.will definitately keep you informed of the next round of chemo/velcade.

Thank God also for the successful operation to remove the prolapsed piles through a new surgical procedure.It was a great relief to me - it feels so light there! The wound is still quite raw and there's still some pain that's bearable, but the pain score can soar when I go to download! Will be seeing the colorectal surgeon, Dr. Wong Nan Yaw in SGH on Monday, 7 August for folow-up.

Thank god for His new measure of grace each day to go through all these - I really can't imagine how if not for His grace. Especially when things happen and come all together like a package. Josh is well now and it is always so good to see him so cheerful, joyful and even playful. What delights me most lately was when he asked me, "Daddy, what was the most wonderful thing for you today?". Immediately, my answer was,"That I had such a wonderful time with him". You should see the smile on his face! And he said,"me too!".

Come September will be exactly 2 years since I've been diagnosed and treated for Multiple Myeloma. My life has been reduced to nothing, except seeing the doctor every week since day one. Feeling empty is a great experience. There were moments I think I've been so reduced to nothing in this world that I felt so miserable. Yet at the same time, I realized that when I became nothing, the God I place my trust and confidence in this journey became everything. Thus, why do I still need to be in control? He is the Sovereign God who is in control.

Looking after Josh has been a great joy, though very tiring and trying at times! Yet it is one of the greatest priviledge God has given me as a man to look after his own son fulltime. My desire and constant prayer is that Jesus will use me to reveal the Heavenly Father's heart to josh as He did to those whom God has given him. (John 27: 2;6 9)

With this I'll end - God is calling me in a season of "feeding my own spirit". The spirit man in us needs to have fresh manna daily and to be filled with His Spirit daily. When the spirit man is spiritually undernourished, it is as good as dead. No life. I don't want stale bread too - it stinks! It must be fresh. I'm enjoying what God is doing - revealing His heart and bringing His promises to come to pass as Whee Ling, Josh and I continue to hold fast to His goodness in our lives.

Do drop us a note if God gives you a word for us.

He is a good God,

P/S: I really appreciate those of you who call to chat, even if it was just a while.

No abnormalities

Praise the Lord! Hallelujah! All the neurological tests showed no abnormalities. So David is able to be discharged today and is home now. He even drove himself home so I need not take leave from work.

As I looked back to the earlier part of the week when Josh was sick and David was suspected to have neurological problems, I felt like we were in such darkness. So grateful that even in the darkest night His light will shine. Glad that this "storm" was over so quickly. Praise be to God who answers our prayers. Thanks to you for your faithful prayers. May you find great joy in knowing He hears and answers your prayers.

Do remember Jonathan in prayers. His 10 days chemo started on 24Jul and today is day 4. Please pray against side effects like nausea, sore mouth, poor appetite, diahorea, fever and infections or other complications. His donor will harvest the stem cells on 01Aug. Pray for protection for donor and successful transplant, in Jesus name.

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Platelets count still dropping

David's platelets count was 57 on Monday, 56 yesterday and 55 today. The reason for this is yet to be known. However, it was a great relief for me to know that the head scan result was good. Nothing unusual was found during the scan. He went for some other tests (I think EEG or something - has to do with some neurological tests) to further confirm all is well with his head. We are thankful Dr William is so thorough to make sure David is cleared of head related problems that could have caused the occassional tingling sensation he felt in his limbs and the earlier cramps he experienced before his admission. Glad that there were no more cramps since.

Physically David may be afflicted but I could tell he was not feeling down but seemed to be filled with a sense of purpose - giving away some Christian books and bibles to other patients, nurses and even pharmacists, praying that the Lord would speak to them and getting excited when he noticed his opposite bed patient reading the Chinese bible with interest. It is his prayers and mine that the Lord use him to continue to touch lives, to bring comfort to those who are suffering, to bring healing to those who are hurting,to bring hope to those who are hopeless, all for the glory of God, our Father.

The joy of the Lord is our strength.

Rejoice in the Lord,
Whee Ling

Thankful that Josh is well/David is admitted

Praise the Lord for His healing touch upon Joshua boy! No more fever and this round he did not even take any antibiotics. So very very grateful to the Lord for answering our prayers so quickly. "Yipeeeeeee!" (---> typed by Josh)

As for David, due to his cramps he has to be admitted today for a head scan. The scan will take place around 6+pm. Please pray that there is nothing wrong with him. Thanks once again for your faithful prayers!

Gratefully,
Whee Ling

Platelets has gone down/Latest Cramps

Thank God David was ok after his piles operation and was home since last Saturday. He is so relieved that it was done as he had been bleeding almost everyday.

However, the joy was mixed with anxiety when our dear son. Joshua fell sick on the same day. His temperature soared to 39.9 at some point during the past 3 days. His throat still hurts very badly and thus other than honey water he could not eat or drink much. Lord, have mercy on us! Joshua shocked me when he asked if daddy's blood problem would pass to him. I instinctively uttered "we reject that in Jesus name." I quickly assured him that daddy would not pass anything that is no good to him. With that, he did not question further. Deep down, I was fearful about that possibility, I shuddered at that thought. "Oh Lord, may it never be."

David's medical checkup today showed his platelets to be surprisely low - only 57 (normal range is 140-440). It is probably due to the operation and a few other reasons, but indeed a miracle that he had his operation done we are thankful that there were no complications. God is indeed merciful.

After discussion with a group of doctors, Dr William advised him to consider another 2 rounds of Velcade (chemo) treatments since the recent MRI showed some of lyticlesions (holes in the bones) did not shrink in size. In not doing anything, there is a risk that the aggressive myeloma cells in those so-called isolated places may be out of hand and thus may trigger a relapse. It's just like looking for terrorists, you don't know where they are, but they are there.
In any case, Velcade, unlike the traditional chemo drugs does not harm the normal, healthy cells in the body and is found to be very effective to treat multiple myeloma. Do pray with us for David and may the Holy Spirit continue to show us what to do.

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Hi all,
I have not written for a while but glad Whee ling has been updating you.It has not been eay for her as a caregiver. Thx God for her!

As she said, it was a great relief to me to have the piles removed through a new surgical procedure that took merely 10 minutes to do. Initially, it worried me because I bled quite a bit the night before.

As the platelets are low, there is a need to watch. My next appointment with Dr. William has been scheduled for Thursday.
But this afternoon, I experienced cramps on my right toes as I was driving home.It happened again few times in the late afternoon, and now my right fingers cramped once at about 7pm.
I informed Dr. William and he wants to scan my brain tonight if it intensifies more and more. there is a high possibility that I will be warded again. If so, do intercede for us as Whee Ling will have to run up and down to the hospital daily. We would also need to 'trouble' my mum who looks after 3 of my nieces and nephew to fetch Josh from the kindergarden.

Josh is unwell and we are concerned that he is sick again. The last bout was just barely a month ago. It saddens me to see him suffering as I know what it is like to have severe pain in the throat where it hurts even to drink.

We are not shaken as we always know that the Lord, our great and good shepherd/Pastor is in full control. Never have our faith and trust in the Lord been so firm before this journey. We have complete confidence in Him to walk us through this current valley. He has been all along. we will see the mountain when we come out of it.

Jehovah is indeed a good and not an evil God, for He is not one who delights in the pleasures of evil and with Him, evil cannot dwell.(Psalm 5:4) But we certainly do value your prayers for the covering under His mighty wings of protection.
And surely goodness and mercy will follow us alllllllll the days of our lives.(Psalm 23:6) - thank you for helping us see the goodness of God through your prayers and love.

David

Staying in the hospital for observation

Praise the Lord! David's piles operation today has been a success. Thanks to all for praying. Though it was supposed to be a day surgery, the Doctor wanted him to stay a night for observation. He was given morphine to manage the pain. Other than the pain, he was fine. Glad his piles problem is taken care of once and for all. He was bleeding quite a bit last night. Now, still need to continue to perservere to pray for complete healing from his multiple myeloma. Thank God for all of you who are reading our blog and joining us in prayer to our Lord Jesus for mercy and healing. Your support has been very encouraging.

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Piles operation tomorrow

David will be going for his piles operation tomorrow. It is a day surgery and so there is no need for hospital stay. As I cannot take leave tomorrow, I am thankful that Pastor Adrian will send him there and Pastor Patrick will fetch him back. Really thank God for them! Appreciate your prayers for David that the operation will be a success with no complications. Pray that his blood platelets will be at a healthy level and for speedy healing of his wound. Apparently the operation is a new technique called "staple" which will minimize open wound but he will still be on General Anesthesia. Pray against all possible risk. I take comfort that the Lord will be with him wherever he is and is in control over what is happening to him. May the lovely name of Jesus be praised again and again.

"But I will hope continually,
And will praise You yet more and more." Psalm 71:14

Entrusting all to our Lord Jesus,
Whee Ling

MRI result

David's MRI result is out. While most of the holes in his bones have reduced, they are not completely gone. There could still be myeloma cells in some isolated places even though there are no new development. Praise the Lord for the relatively good result but please continue to pray for wisdom as the doctors discuss what to do next. He may be required to wait for a month to see if the improvement in the GVHD would cause the remaining unwanted myeloma cells to be wiped out or go for another one or two cycle of Velcade (chemo).

David did not appear too disappointed with the result and instead try to assure me that the result was considered quite good already. I had expected excellent MRI result and was not quite prepared for the not-so-good news. But thank God I am reminded about the prophecy that God wants to heal him and he will live to see his grandchildren. I am also reminded about the prayer Dr Philip Lyn prayed for him during the church camp not to look at the medical result but look to our God, our Lord the Healer.

May the Lord continue to help us look to Him and not the circumstances. "Lord, please grant us more grace, more faith and a deeper understanding of Your love and plan for our lives, in Jesus name I pray. Amen!"

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Pray for Jonathan

Good morning! Glad to update that David seems to have recovered completely from his flu - no more cough and phelgm. Praise the Lord for His goodness and mercy.

Also want to praise the Lord for healing Jonathan (my friend's son) from his flu. Today he will start his 10 days chemotherapy to prepare him for his bone marrow transplant. Please join us and many others to stand in the gap for this little boy that he need not suffer from the side effects of the chemo. Do pray for God's protection against vomitting, fever, diarrhea, bleeding in the bladder, infections and loss of appetite. After witnessing what David has gone through, I felt such burden for Jonathan. May the Lord deliver him from pain and suffering and show him tender mercies and lovingkindness to the glory of His name, the mighty and wonderful name of Jesus! Surely He will hear our cries.

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Please pray for Anthony

David had his medical checkup yesterday and thank God all blood test results were good. He is back on a weekly routine checkup. He was given another round of antibiotics for his flu. His health is improving and we are thankful for God's grace again and again.

When he was at the hospital yesterday, he got to know that a patient called Anthony, was in ICU. His wife said he is in critical condition and is now suffering from internal bleeding. Please pray and intercede for Anthony. He is not a believer in Jesus yet. Pray for God's mercy to be upon him and family, for healing and salvation in Jesus name! Felt a burden to share this, so if you read this please pray.

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Discharged yesterday

Praise the Lord!!! David was discharged yesterday. His throat does not hurt much even though the ulcers in his mouth is still a little painful. At least he is eating more now. I am so so glad we do not need to spend the weekend at the hospital. But do remember those who are still in the hospital in our prayers.

Thanks for your partnership in prayers. Have a blessed weekend!

God bless,
Whee Ling

Going for MRI today

David is scheduled for MRI today. It should be at around 3pm. Please pray for good result.

I am glad to report that his throat is much better today. Thanks for your faithful prayers.

My friend has also updated that Jonathan's sneezing was greatly reduced. His throat was a bit sore and he has some phelgm but no fever. Praise the Lord!

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

David is in the hospital

I am so glad that Dr William called David last night to ask how he was and suggested that he goes to the hospital this morning. Really thank God for Dr William! I was beginning to be very worried about his vomitting when he hardly ate much or drank. He is now in the hospital on drip, at least I know he will not be dehydrated. His ulcers in the mouth and throat are likely due to GVHD (Graft versus Host Diease). Please pray for healing from the painful ulcers and strengthening of his body with sufficient intake of food.

Remember Jonathan, my friend's son who is going for transplant this month? His chemo is delayed becuase he was down with fever and flu. Latest update, his fever was gone but he kept sneezing, every min or less. Do pray for him to be well so his pre-transplant regimen can start smoothly.

We take comfort we have a God who cares and is near to those who suffer. Praise Him for His lovingkindness and tender mercies!

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Still in pain

David is still in much pain. In fact, there seems to be ulcers in his throat making it painful to even swallow his saliva. Eating and even drinking become a painful exercise. He had not eaten much since yesterday and is in bed most of the time. I am really at a loss, there is nothing much I can do but to pray. Please pray with me for God's healing to be upon him and that his ulcers be healed quickly in Jesus' name. Amen!

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

In pain again - from ulcers this time

Hope you do not mind my posting in the blog the not so pretty pictures of David's ulcers in his mouth and tougue. Just thought of sharing with all who care for David how awful the ulcers look and certainly how painful it must have been for David. Even his gums are so looking so fiercely red.

He coughed so much last night that he hardly slept. Each cough was so forceful that we were worried if his ribs and bones would be affected. He consulted Dr William and was requested to do an X-ray of his chest even though his next medical appointment is not due yet. Thank God for Dr Wiliam. Even though he has no clinic today, he still made special arrangement to see David. We cannot thank God enough for him. The X-ray result showed that his right lung is a little hazy. Suspected possible GVHD from his mouth progressing to his throat and lung. Dr William prescribed some other immunosuppressant drugs. Please pray that the Lord will make effective all the drugs David is taking to treat the symptoms as well as the root problem without causing harm to his body.

Also, please pray that he can eat well. His appetite has been poor lately as a result of the severe pain he felt due to the ulcers. May the Lord deliver him from this agony soon, according to His great mercy and compassion, in Jesus name I pray. Amen!

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Painful ulcers

  

Fever and Cough

Thank God Josh has recovered but David is still having fever and bad cough. He has been coughing for almost 2 weeks already. His mouth has alot of ulcers and even his throat has ulcers too, could be due to GVHD. Please pray for relief from pain and illness. I am also down with fever. May the Lord bring healing to our household soon, in Jesus name. Amen!

God bless,
Whee Ling

All normal

David had a colonoscopy done today at SGH and praise the Lord all is normal!

He is scheduled for MRI on 05Jul. Please continue to pray that all is well with his body - that the MRI result will testify the miraculous healing of the Lord.

He is having fever again today, from 37.9 this morning to 38.2 half an hour ago. Please pray for good immunity to fight the viral or bacteria infection causing the cough and fever. Please also pray for all who are unwell to receive good health and healing in Jesus name!

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Thankful for being able to celebrate!

We are so thankful to be able to throw a birthday party for Joshua last Sat. He turned 6 on 20th of Jun. Initially he was relunctant to go to the church camp because he wanted to celebrate his birthday with his friends in Singapore not in KL. It turned out that he got to celebrate his birthday twice - in KL at the camp and again last sat with our families, friends and relatives. It was a special birthday party because this year his own friends (kindergarten friends) not just children of his daddy and mummy's friends came to celebrate with him.

He had thought when daddy insisted that we should go for the church camp that he was not important to us and that the camp was more important. It was the Holy Spirit who gave me wisdom to explain to him that we should put God first and when faced with such circumstances, we should choose God's will. I told him the story of Abraham and Issac and how God tested Abraham's faith by asking him if he would sacrifice his son. Josh eventually understood that none of us should become an idol (anything that takes the place of the love for God) in any of our lives because we should love God with all our hearts, soul and mind and might. I was amazed that the Lord enabled him to comprehen this important truth.

As you can see from the pictures, he was so blessed isn't it? He loved football so much that he wore a football jersey for his birthday celebration, had a football field cake and even got to play football with his friends and cousins. He had a great time and his friends' mummies also shared with me the children enjoyed themselves tremendously. I am thankful to all who came to bless Josh and us. It was a very very blessed time. "Thank you our dear dear Lord Jesus!"

Joshua's favorite uncle Pastor Pat also commented how good David looked compared to those days when he visited him at the hospital. Indeed, God's grace is sufficient for us.

Yes, we continue to seek His grace and mercy after the celebration. Both David and Joshua were down with fever and cough yesterday. If fact David was so sick, having fever at 38.3, was in bed most of the time and hardly eaten much. We witnessed more healing grace as he got better today. Josh is getting better too. Praise the Lord for His healing touch. As I give thanks, I am also praying and urge you to pray along with me:

1. for David's oral GVHD. His medical appointment today showed blood result was good but the GVHD in his mouth is causing his mouth to be dry and the skin inside his mouth is breaking down causing some pain. Please pray that his mouth will heal and the Lord will stop anymore GVHD in Jesus name.

2. for our China friend Ling Fen who is being treated for Luekemia but not responding too well to the chemotherapy. He is the one who was baptized recently and whose mum accepted the Lord a couple of months ago. Please intercede for him as the Holy Spirit leads us to strengthen their faith and claim the healing made available to all children of God by the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.

3. for my friend's young son Johnathan who is suffering from Luekemia. I think he is now 12 years old and his condition was diagnosed last year. He will be going for Bone Marrow Transplant likely on 13Jul. They have found a donor from US whose blood type matched his. He will be admitted tomorrow to KK hospital for his pre-transplant regimen - inserting the hickman line and undergoing chemotherapy to prepare him for the transplant. Please pray for God grace and mercy upon him that he need not suffer the side effects of the chemo and that the BMT be successful without GVHD if possible. That his mum will find strength and hope as she stay with him in the hospital during his treatment. Lets pray that his parents will continue to hang on to Jesus for miraclous complete healing.

4. for David's nieces Isabella and Arabella and my niece Amelia who are unwell, having quite high fever. May our Lord send His word and heals them (Ps 107:20) and bring forth speedy recovery in Jesus name.

Thanks for being partners in prayers. May the Lord bless us with the joy of knowing He is mindfull of us and hears our cries.

God bless,
Whee Ling

Joshua's 6th BD celebration

  

Some pictures taken during church camp

  

Joshua celebrating his birthday at camp with cousins and friends

  

So Blessed!

God is good all the time. Jesus is so good! We are so blessed. Praise the Lord forever and ever!

We were indeed very blessed to make it for the church camp. Thanks for praying. So much to be thankful for the countless blessings we experienced. From being able to travel to KL with together with a wonderful family (Bok Eng, his lovely wife Violet and little Joseph who is Joshua's kindergarten friend) to the very anointed preaching from Pastor Dr Philip Lyn (Senior Pastor of Skyline SIB church), the warmth and care of fellow church members, the sumptious food, the birthday surprise celebration for Joshau from his aunt Chye Hong, cousins Shirley and Goa Hao , the fun Josh had with his cousins Isabella and Arabella....

Even though Josh was sick and had fever and at one point his fever even reached 40.3 degrees, the Lord so graciously heard our prayers and healed him. We did not sleep well during the 2 nights when Josh had fever and were really glad that the Lord sustained us, especially for David. Glad to also share that he was coping well despite being very tired.

We enjoyed all the 5 sessions from Pastor Dr Philip Lyn tremendously and am praying that the Holy Spirit will help us to internalize the message of having a spiritual break through, taking kingdom authority, releasing the power of prayer and fasting, discerning the spirit of the times and living triumphantly for the kingdom of God is near.

May we live worthy of His calling, giving Him all glory due to His name - the name above all other names, the name of Jesus our Lord!

Be blessed,
Whee Ling

16Jun06 - a significant day

We attended "The House of Prayer Conference" on 15, 16 & 17 June 2006 organised by One Thing Ministries. Gary Wiens from IHOP - Kansas City and his wife Marie shared about God's heart for the House of Prayer and the significance of raising the House of Prayer in such a time as this. We were tremendously blessed by it. Therefore, before being away for the next 4 days for the church camp, I simply must share and give praises and glory to God.

On saturday morning, the last day of the Conference, the Lord gave Marie a burden to pray for a man with cancer whom the Lord wanted to heal. Marie also shared that the Lord had long before her trip to Singapore made known to her that he would do something very significant on 16Jun06 which she wrote on her bible. Last saturday morning in Singapore was 17Jun06 and was 16Jun06 in America. It turned out that David was the one and was requested to step forward to receive healing. While God's people gathered round to pray, worship and intercede, words were released that David is healed and that he will live to see his grandchildren. What a wonderful promise! What a precious promise! I am so overwhelmed by the Lord's love for us...so grateful, so awed, so amazed that He (the King of kings and Lord of lords) knew (took notice of) our hearts' desire and is so gracious to hear and answer our prayers and to fulfill our hope. We who are so unworthy of Him, yet out of His great mercies and lovingkindness, He once again extended amazing grace to us - to David and our family and many others who sought healing that morning.

After the healing ministry, Gary and Marie taught about the importance of Matthew 5 Beatitudes as the journey to Righteousness - a wonderful insight revealed by the Holy Spirit as essential in building a house of prayer. Would like to encourage all beloved children of God to meditate on the Beatitudes and be blessed.

Marie later told David during break time that the assignment satan had to destroy David's life in the prophesy given 2 years ago was cancelled, broken. Priase the Lord!

We can certainly look forward to a life of good health and abundant blessings from Him who loves us so much that He gave His only son so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Bless the name of Jesus forever and ever! Amen!
Whee Ling

More praises!

The Lord's name is to be praised forever and ever! His mercies are new every morning and His lovingkindness never ceases.

David's blood test result yesterday was amazingly good. His Hb was 11, WBC 6.19, Platelet count 185. He is deemed fit for surgery and is scheduled for his piles operation on 21Jul. Do pray that his operation is successful, without complications and that his piles problem will be fixed once and for all. Also that he will not have prolapse piles during this period. His appetite has improved but he is still very much underweight, please pray that the Lord will restore not just his health but his weight and strength.
"Blessed is the man whose strength is in You,
Whose heart is set on pilgrimage.
As they pass throught the valley of Baca,
They make it a spring;
The rain also covers it with pools.
They go from strength to strength;
Every one of them appears before God in Zion." Psalm 84:5-7

We are joining the BBTC church camp in KL from next Monday to Thur. Really looking forward to it as we believe God has in store abundant blessings to bestow upon all during the church camp. Please pray that nothing will crop up to prevent us from going. We have signed up for the camp by faith when David was still in the hospital. By faith, we are giving thanks to God for hearing and answering prayers.

With thanksgiving,
Whee Ling

Improved platelet count

Praise the Lord! David's platelet count has risen to 90. According to Dr William, he need not go for anymore Velcade treatment and his medical appointment will be scheduled once every 2 weeks instead of once a week. He is definietly on the road to full recovery. Priase the Lord from whom all blessings flow!!!

Rejoicing in God's goodness!
Whee Ling

Blood test result

Hi all,

David did a blood test yesterday and the result showed his platelets count has dropped to 47 (normal range is 140 - 440). The platelets help blood to clog when there is bleeding. Please pray that he does not suffer any cuts or sustain any injury during this time and that his count will improve soon. May the Lord protect him from all harm and danger.

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

From Strength to Strength

Dear praying and caring friends; and especially my family of origin,

Thx God for the grace to see me thru each phase of my journey in this new world of cancer as HE was with me in the past 15 years of ministry in FCBC.(1 Tim 1:12)

It’s all about His amazing grace, that allowed a man like the privilege to go thru all the challenges in the ministry and now in my physical mortal body – in order that I may be ‘transformed into His likeness from glory to glory’(2Cor 3:18)

I am home now as Whee Ling has updated you.
Yesterday was a very tough day for me. I vomited once only though the whole night was rather hard to pass, with sweating, headache and great discomfort in my whole body. I think it's probably due to the chemo/velcade that I was given. Usually my whole body feels ‘funny’ and uneasy' after each dose but had been bearable though there were minor side effects except On one occasion when I had fever for many days and was totally knocked out. One thing I remembered quite vividly then (though I was very drowsy and saw them for few moments and I knocked out again), were the faces of my sister, Angie; john - my dear brother and close friend and Melvin -doctor friend. in my tired and weary state physically and emotionally, they came and sat there quitely praying as they looked after me. I am deeply touched by their presence; prayers and even such provisions by the Lord just to see me thru each phase of my cancer journey. Indeed, He gives more grace whenever the road gets longer and tough along the 'valley of BACA'(Psm 84:6)- a place of weeping.

well, Thank God I am feeling so much better today. I had a great time at home with Whee Ling and Josh today after resting the whole night and part of the day.the greatest joy today was also to hear Josh beginning to pray more now using the word of God.

Above all, thank you for your prayers. Same phrase again and again, but am eternally grateful and sincere. For I know that your prayers uttered for us have touched heaven and cuased our Heavenly Father to give me more grace to endure and persevere.
Frankly, there were times, I entertained the thought of asking God to just take me home as much as I know THERE IS A PURPOSE for me to go thru this valley experience.

Whee Ling mentioned that there were signs of depression. Guess I was surrounded by many very sick patients in the ward who were coughing very,very badly and were agonising day and night. Perhaps I was not well rested and I could not sleep in the daytime. Trying to read weren't very helpful as my eyes are turning more blur'.And I do struggle at times with the process though I have complete confidence in my good and great God.

But thank God He always loves to speak to us, His children. In my sorrow and struggles, He comforted me:

Whenever I think about my pain, I would hear words like "I am not an evil God. And I am not against you. And it is not a curse upon you'.
Whenever I felt a little lonely at times in the hospital,I would hear him say,"though you feel forsaken, I will never leave nor forsake you. I have not abandoned you like a fatherless child. Instead, I have been here all along, even when I am silent'.
and,whenever I see my physical body turning ugly and changing, I learn to draw close to Him by trusting and pouring my heart to Him(Psm 62:8), and I would hear Him tell me affectinately,"Son, I see your pain and feel your sorrow.I had been there remember.For I've walked the road of Calvary'.

Whee Ling 'caught' me with my eyes red several times in the hospital and when I was on home leave. I didn't know how best to explain what the Lord was doing in me. Yes,I was quite depressed, but I also had tears of knowing God is so good to me by speaking so much to me as I behold his face.He gave me new manna each day though I lost appetite physically.Besides, not only did He remind me of allllllllllllllllll the wonderful words released to me in the last admission, it was also a wonderful retreat at the mountain of the Lord.(too many details to share- imagine 3 weeks of words released daily).but i would just share one and it was powerful and life changing to me.

At 4am one night, the Lord woke me up and immedistely He gave me this word. By the way, 4 am is very interesting time where God often wakes me up and would release a word to me regarding certains situations in my life or others that need attention or action. It was in 1989 when I first spoke in tongues in my sleep and got up at 4am. Since then, I have journalled many words He has given me near this time of the night.
So, that night 19 April 2006, God said,"Unless you are ready to die, you are not really ready to live."

When I heard this, I thought God was preparing me to die. Indeed He was. Especially, in my spirit. as I pondered upon these words, He spoke to me," Do you not believe that I love your parents, Whee Ling and even Josh enough? Do you think you can do a better job in caring for them than I do? For I love them much, much more than you do for I made them and I made you too.Can you not entrust them in my very hands?".

What happened was I began to surrender all of me to the Lord. My parents (whom I worry a lot as they've lost my eldest brother who died many years ago)- can you imagine if I were to go to the lord before they do? And my family - Whee Ling and Josh - I finally felt so set free in my spirit and soul that I can totally entrust them to the care of the Lord, having full confidence that the maker of our lives will watch over them day and night when I die. As I surender, not only do I feel ready to die, I sense a new surge of energy in wanting to live.Finally, I understood His words to me - unless I am ready to die, I am not really ready to live. In my heart,I suddenly found the strength to want to live on - regardless of how long the Lord ordains my days, as it was more important for me to number the days of my life and live the abundant life meaningfully and purposefully for His glory.

The recent admission were full of tears - tears of sorrow as well as strength. He has turned my mourning into joy (Psm 30:5;11). Thru the valley of weeping/BACA, my dearest Father in heaven has helped me 'make it a place of spring', where I made the choice to trust, believe and place all my confidence again in Him for every area of my life, including my mortal body. Like Paul said in 2 Cor. 4: 16-18

"So we're not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace. These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There's far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can't see now will last forever."

Psm 84:7 says this when one makes a deliberate choice to make the valley of BACA a place of springs, "They go from strength to strength till each appears before God in Zion."

You know, I've never felt so close and so intimate with the Lord than this time of my life.As I write with tears in my eyes, these tears are tears of joy and strength because His words are words of life. god's word brings new life. Even tough sometimes I think my body seems to be wasting away, yet in my spirit, I am regenerated. Even tough I feel ugly as I see all the changes in my body, in my spirit I see the beautiful, tranforming grace of God that's allowed me to go into this pit of darkness that has drawn me deeper into His love and faithfulness. And I realized, life is not even about pleasing Him, especially in ministry, because it is all about intimacy with Him - for as we grow closer to understanding and going after our Father's heart,we would naturally do the things that please Him.

As I continue to trust God for His healing, I want to thank you for being there for my family and me. Each of you has been there for us in so many different ways. This is one of God's greatest provision in our lives.

I pray and ask God to bless you with new strength for this day in all that you do. And that He will cause you to draw near to Him every moment of what you do.

Let's long after God's heart together,
david

"Unless you are ready to die, you are not really ready to live."
- God's word to me on 19 April 2006

Surprise discharge

David was supposed to stay in the hospital this week after his Velcade today to have a surgery to correct his piles problem, but was allowed to be discharged today. Reason being his platelets count has reduced so it may not be wise to do any surgery. Though his platelet count has gone down from 70+ to 60+, the doctors think it is not necessary for him to stay in the hospital but he is required to be back for another blood test on Thur. Anyway, I am glad he can be home. However, just before dinner, he felt a little nauseated and vomited a little. His blood pressure was at 140/80 and he felt cold and tired and does not have much appeptite. He is sleeping now and please pray that he will be able to rest well and be strengthen in body, soul and spirit.

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Signs of depression

Only the Lord knows the tears, the pain, the discouragement, the downcast feeling and not just medication induced physical tiredness but also emotional fatigue that David is experiencing. He shared with me that he felt so despondant this morning that he cried and was even enteratining thoughts of giving up but thankfully was reminded by the Holy Spirit about the timing of God. He tried to renew his mind by listening to worship songs.

Not sure if this is one of the side effects of Velcade. Apparently, some other patient on Velcade also felt tired and depressed. His appetite is also quite poor and had mild abdominal discomfort.

Please pray that in moments like these, the Lord will fill his heart with His tender lovingkindness, renew his mind with His promises and "bestow on him a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair." (Isaiah 61:3)

Claiming God's promise that "weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." (Psalm 30:5). We can rejoice in the Lord always even though "a night" sometimes drags into years because His promises never fail.

God bless,
Whee Ling

Need to stay till next week

David needs to stay in the hospital till next week.... :(
Guess it has to do with the unpredictable outcome of Velcade. So, the doctor thought it would be better to make sure he is fine after the last dose of Velcade is given on Monday before discharge.

Though his blood result is so far quite good, he has been feeling very tired in the last 2 to 3 days - a far cry from the 2 weeks during last hospitalization when he was up and about, writing down thoughts, insights and impressions he had received from the Lord and finding opportunities to minister to other patients and nurses. Not sure if this has to do with the effects of Velcade. He also experienced slight tingling sensation in his legs, some abdominal discomfort and just a sense of restlessness which bothers him a little. Please continue to pray for wellness.

The doctor has seen him regarding his piles and suggested surgery next wek when his condition stablizes after the last Velcade injection. Please pray that this will be a safe process and will effectively treat his problem of possible prolapse piles. Will continue to keep all updated. Thanks for your support and prayers.

God bless,
Whee Ling

The beautiful sunflower

Doing well after 2nd Velcade injection

So far David is doing very well after his 2nd Velcade injection yesterday. His blood count result today is good (TW 9, Hb 11.4, Plt 144). Praise the Lord for the good result. Praise the Lord for no side effects. Priase the Lord for His grace and mercy upon David. Praise the name of Jesus forevermore!

As I ponder on these blessings, I marveled why our prayers are answered. I know nothing we have done to deserve His love and mercy - not our righteousness, not our faithfulness, not our strength, much less our goodness, not even the fasting and prayers. I acknowledged it is all because of the love of Jesus in accordance to the will of the Father.

If the outcome to our prayers is in accordance to His will, is it then necessary to pray? Yes, because the Lord has said to do so. "Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak."- Mark 14:38.
Yes, we should pray. We should pray unceasingly (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Sometimes, the Lord requires that we Pray Until Something Happens (P.U.S.H.). "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." - Hebrews 4:16.

As you bring your various prayers and petitions before hte throne of grace, do remember to continue to pray for David:
1. to sleep well. He has not been able to sleep very well in the hospital. Woke up every 2 hours or so.
2. to not experience the sensation of numbness and Rheumatism kind of aching in his legs. He was having the same kind of sensation in his legs this evening. He suspects it may not be withdrawal from the morphine after all but the effect of thailidomide - a drug he is required to take to treat the myeloma cells. May the Lord not let his go through this agony again.
3. to be treated for his bleeding piles. Pray that the Dr seeing him for this problem will be able to effectively treat it and bring complete healing.
4. that his wisdom tooth that is beginning to surface will not cause any secondary problem. He is seeing the dentist tomorrow. May it not cause him any pain or discomfort.

Thanks for your bringing our needs before our Heavenly Father whose grace is sufficient for us. Do feel free to share your needs if you need prayers too. It is kind of "lonely" to be the only one who is making most of the entries in this blog. Do join me to give thanks, praise and glory to our Almighty God, our Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ!

God bless,
Whee Ling

God's timing

David has started on Velcade and he said he felt somewhat weaker physically. He is still taking the steriods to suppress his immunity to guard against GVHD. Please pray for protection from all infections so prevalent in the hospital and that he will be able to sleep well and will not have those painful ulcers again.

He has been reading and pondering on God's timing lately. The message seems to be wait upon the Lord. He is asking for a little more grace to bear with all things while he waits. Taking comfort in the Lord's promise that His grace is sufficient for us.

The Lord has used him to minister to his next bed patient who was diagnosed to have lymphoma just about a month ago. Please also pray that the Lord will use David mightily to dispense His grace and bring hope and comfort to those who are also suffering.

May the Shalom peace of God be with us all.
Whee Ling

Starting on Velcade tomorrow

Hi,
Thanks for praying for David to get better so his treatment need not be further delayed. Praise the Lord he is indeed much better already. He is warded today in preparation for the 2nd and hopefuly last round of chemotherapy - Velcade. The purpose of this chemo is to completely wipe out any remnants of the myeloma cells which may still be lurking somewhere. Lets pray that the Lord will use this drug to thoroughly eradicate any myeloma cells which may still be in David's body. Every cell that does not promote life and health in his body is cut off from its source. His immune system will not allow any cancerous growth to live in his body in Jesus' name. (Luke 17:6 ; Mark 11:23)

Please also pray against possible side effects of Velcade and that he need not suffer much pain.

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling