FINISHING STRONG - - -by Max Lucado

Dear all,
In my last update I was sharing about finishing well and strong. Today, I came across this little devotional by Pastor Max Lucado.Hope it will encourage you in your walk with the Lord who is the perfect example for us in finishing well and strong in this life.I have been reminded and encouraged - not to quit regardless of the occasional defeats to the illness and other setbacks in life. And as long as I am still breadth, I know that God has a purpose for me here on earth - for His plans are not to harm or hurt me but for welfare and peace and not for evil.
(Jeremiah 29:11 The Amplified bible).So it is the same for you - like Jeremiah,God has a planned destiny for you and me. Let us press on and persue that calling which God has for us. Yes, like Max Lucado said,"let's endure!".

dave

FINISHING STRONG - - -
by Max Lucado

Remain. Hang in there. Finish. Stick to it until it is done.
Unfortunately, very few of us do that. Our human tendency is to quit
too soon. Our human tendency is to stop before we cross the finish line.

Our inability to finish what we start is seen in the smallest of things:

A partly mowed lawn. A half-read book. Letters begun but never
completed. An abandoned diet. A car up on blocks.

Or, it shows up in life’s most painful areas:

An abandoned child. A cold faith. A job hopper. A wrecked marriage.
An unevangelized world.

Am I touching some painful sores? Any chance I’m addressing someone
who is considering giving up? If I am, I want to encourage you to
remain. I want to encourage you to remember Jesus’ determination on
the cross.

Jesus didn’t quit. But don’t think for one minute that he wasn’t
tempted to. Watch him wince as he hears his apostles backbite and
quarrel. Look at him weep as he sits at Lazarus’s tomb or hear him
wail as he claws the ground of Gethsemane.

Did he ever want to quit? You bet.

That’s why his words are so splendid.

“It is finished.”

A cry of defeat? Hardly. Had his hands not been fastened down I dare
say that a triumphant fist would have punched the dark sky. No, this
is no cry of despair. It is a cry of completion. A cry of victory. A
cry of fulfillment. Yes, even a cry of relief.

Are you close to quitting? Please don’t do it. Are you discouraged as
a parent? Hang in there. Are you weary with doing good? Do just a
little more. Are you pessimistic about your job? Roll up your sleeves
and go at it again. No communication in your marriage? Give it one
more shot. Can’t resist temptation? Accept God’s forgiveness and go
one more round. Is your day framed with sorrow and disappointment?
Are your tomorrows turning into nevers? Is hope a forgotten word?

Remember, a finisher is not one with no wounds or weariness. Mother
Teresa is credited with saying, “God didn’t call us to be successful,
just faithful.”

The Land of Promise, says Jesus, awaits those who endure. (Matthew
10:22) It is not just for those who make the victory laps or drink
champagne. No sir. The Land of Promise is for those who simply remain
to the end.

Let’s endure.

MRI on 3 April 2006

Dear all,
I sincerely appreciate you for praying for the relief of the pain in my bones.

Thankfully, the pain killers do help though they wear off quite fast,usually in 3-4 hours. The codeine also causes drowsiness. To help in restoring the bones,I am on intravenous Zometa regularly as well as calcium tablets 3x a day. Come Monday, I will be going for the MRI of my whole body.

Interestingly, the Lord has also opened doors for me to befriend some people at the Haemological Centre at SGH. I have started to write their names down so that I can intercede for the salvation of each of them by name. Frankly,often I just didn't want to get to know people actively as I struggle with my own ailment. As much as I know I can seize every opportunity and season in my life to be a witness for the Lord, many a times I feel weak and powerless in my soul to do so. Most of the time I choose to sit at a corner to read or think while waiting for my turn to see the doctor, with occcasional 'hellos' and smiles with the familiar hospital staff and patients that have become acquainted with me.

Since Sept 2004, SGH Haemotology Centre and ward 72 have been a place I frequent at least once a week for my regular follow-ups. It's almost like a second home. In the course of time, there are many I have got to know- staff and patients.
Sadly, a few patients had also succumbed to the deadly effects of the disease they suffered. Some are doing fairly well with occasional 'hiccups' like what I have been having on and then. While here and there I see some turning frail and weak, trying to fight the warfare in their bodies and souls. Mixed feelings do cloud my mind and heart but again and again, I have to hold the sword of the Spirit/ word of God to remind me to turn my eyes to focus on Jesus, the finisher of our faith.

Many people have written to commend us as we go thru this crisis. Honestly, we don't have enough strength. Do you know what gave us the joy and strength?

For one - your prayers and words of encouragement.

Secondly,remembering how the heroes in the Bible also gave us great strength to persevere and have the sense of purpose in living each day. Particularly Job - who suffered so much. He is a great example for me to follow in such times of testing.
The Apostle Paul's uncomsuming attitude and concern for the gospel in the midst of his own suffering also taught me to rejoice in the Lord and to glorify God in all circumstances.But ultimately, it is the Jesus who had been thru the worst suffering thru the way of the cross that has provided the serenity and peace as we trust in Jehovah Jireh. Why? Simply because He knows and understands all that we are going through. That's enough for me to keep trusting; keep believing and have complete confidence in God.

Finishing well and strong in life is important. But above all, living for eternity is even more important. Talking to Dr. William last Monday was a good reminder of this fact.

We were talking about an article I read at the medical centre. It's about an interview he had with the newspapers not too long ago in which he said, "No one lives forever but there's a lot of satisfaction when you can give a patient a new lease of life. Sometimes, though, it's the patients who don't make it, who change you. Their perspective, that it's not just this life that they are living for, makes the big picture clearer."

Talking with him in that brief moment in the consultaion reminded me to stay focused on living well for the Lord. I vividly remembered him saying, "it doesn't matter whether we live for just one more day or a hundred or more. It matters more how and why we live our lives."

I want to stay strong like Job - able to stand the test of loyalty and faithfulness to my master and maker even if I suffer losses in life, including my health. I want to be like Paul - able to sing and rejoice and speak of the goodness of God even in difficult circumstances. I really want to be like Jesus - able to stay focused on his mission, who for the joy ahead endured the cross.

I feel so motivated to serve again. Regardless of the physical strength in me - I want to tell of His love wherever I am. I do not need to be in a place in full-time in the pastorate to do that. Influence is not primarily due to position, rather, where God has placed me, I can proclaim of His undying love.

please pray that God will open more doors and open the hearts of the hopsital staff and especially, the patients who must see the urgency of time to make Jesus their Lord and Saviour while there is still breadth.

Thanks,
david

Father and Son beholding God's Splendor

  

God's Splendor is like the Sunrise

  

Watching Sunrise with Josh - pictures

  

Watching sunrise together

Dear all,
Whee Ling has been back safely from Hong Kong. She was there for work till Thursday evening.

Josh and I had been going to the beach near Bedok Jetty to watch the sunrise.We had our daily devotion there too. Now he has memorized Habakuk.3:4 about God's splendor.Seeing different colours of the sunrise each day had given him, and me, a better understanding of God's splendor.

The pain on my body is still there. It will be until the bones are healed. A
MRI appointment has been scheduled in April.Meanwhile, it is relieved by taking pain killers.

Sometimes I am very intrigued by Josh.I was having pain again yesterday afternoon at home when he said to me, "Daddy, don't think of the pain, think of God." immediately, his words realigned me to the promises of God instead of focusing on my pain - physically and emotionally.It is so easy to dwell on problems we are facing instead of depending on the person of Jesus who can carry us through because He is our overcomer.

Thank God for His wonderful grace each day,
david

Psalm 6:2-4

"Be merciful to me,Lord, for my bones are in agony. My soul is in anguish.
How long, O Lord. how long? Turn, O Lord, and deliver me;
save me because of Your unfailing love.
Psalm 6:2-4

Dear all,
thank you for sharing my pain by praying for me. The past few days had been very tough for me-bearing the pain physically and emotionally, wondering when this road is going to end. But many of your words of comfort and encouragement thru your sms-es and calls brought great strength to my anguised soul.And particularly the advice of many doctor friends who called were timely and insightful.Thank God also for the wisdom of God upon Dr. William, my transplant physician and the team of concerned and caring doctors in SGH, haematology department who explained to me about the lytic lesions in my bones. Lytic lesions are holes caused by the disease multiple myeloma. Thus, my bones are brittle and more prone to fractures.To promote healing of the holes, I'm on intravenous Zometa and calcium tablets.The good news is that the last BMA done shows no trace of myeloma cells.Do pray for speedy recovery of the bones.

Because of my pain, I brought Josh to my sister's place so that she can help me look after Josh. Josh and I stayed there last night. Josh also wanted to see the sunrise as the place overlooks the see at Laguna Park, Marine Parade.

The sunrise was beautiful. Josh loves seeing the beautiful colours in the sky while the sun was slowly coming up. It was full of splendor. In spite of the pain at night, I was reminded of God's splendor. God's splendor is like the sunrise (Habakkuk 3;4) Thus, God's sunrise is more than my disease.

I was also very encouraged by God's word in Malachi 4:2 as well that says, "The sun of righteousness will rise with HEALING in its wings." The sun is like a great golden bird rising in the morning and flying across the sky. His shining wings are sending out light and warmth. And to those who look up to Him to feel that warm light will get better and stronger. God, the sun of righteousness can make us better and stronger when we look to him. I told Josh that God will make me better and stronger - thank God for His promise and presence and protection - things could have been worse if not for His grace. Do pray for more and more grace each day to endure and persevere.

david

David is experiencing much pain lately

Dear all,

David was hospitalised last Fri for prolapsed piles, pain in his back. He also experienced tightness in his chest on Sat morning while in the hospital. After various tests, he was discharged after Doctor was sure his pain has nothing to do with his kidney or heart but the holes in his bones likely caused by previous myeloma cells. His bones takes a while to heal and strengthen. Meanwhile he is on painkillers to cope with the pain. Please pray for him.

Our family were supposed to go for holiday in HK last Sat but have to cancel the plan due to the last min hospitalisation. Naturally Joshua is very disappointed but he understood when explained that it is better for his daddy to travel when he is well. Though disappointed, we continue to give thanks for all things for we know our lives are in His hands.

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Review on Fri 3/3/2006

Dear all,
Josh is much better now, except for slight cough and a little conjuctivities of the left eye.

The last BMA appears clear with no trace of myeloma cells. Dr. William is certain that there is no relapse.He has also tailed down the doasges of some of the drugs, chiefly the immuno-suppressants. As such, he is careful and will review me again tomorrow.

There are 3 areas where there is pain this week - thank God the fracture 8th left rib has lessened tremendously. But the BMA site where another dr did it is still so painful.

Of late, I have been having frequent urination throughtout the day. In order to hydrate myself myself due to my constant thirst, I drink a lot. But the output is much more than my daily intake. Besides, the output of urine each time is not very much although I feel 'urgent'. The pain around my right kidney is a little of concern although all the Xrays (KUB;IVU) and even blood tests for kidney function and glucose are all within the normal range. Anyway,I have another appointment to see the urologist tomorrow for more insights into the problem.

This morning, while waiting with Josh for my brother to fetch Josh to school, I had a good chat with Josh. We were reviewing Phil 4:4, a powerful verse where it shows us the key to real joy in life - to rejoice in the LORD always. Then an old sunday school song many of the "young people" around my age will know.The rest of you are younger peole - there are no old people in this world, it's all in the mind!
Anyway, as I sang to Josh, I changed the words to "Rejoice in the Lord and DON'T COMPLAIN, and again I say rejoice. Josh laughed and enjoyed the fun. But how true it is , that the key to find real joy in life is to be like Paul as he advised and experinced in the midst of all his trials and troubles. Indeed, he has stood the test of being a good soldier and fighter of Jesus.

Someone said, "A soldier is not a soldier until he goes to war." Likewise, a disciple is not really one until he is tested and refined by the adversities and fires in life. Sometimes, the journey seems so long and I grow weary. But these thoughts quickened my spirit to figth on and be a good soldier and disciple of Christ. And of the keys I learn to hold on to in order to have victory is to learn to rejoice, instead of complaining; to become better instead of bitter. Indeed, 'the joy of the Lord is my strength'-Neh 8:10

May you find joy in all you do this day too,

thx for reading our blog - hope you are blessed too,
david.

Bone Marrow Aspiration Done on 23/2/2006

Hi ,
Josh is much, much better now except for a little cough. No more fever.

As for me, a bone marrow aspiration was done last Thursday. Interestingly, one can imagine all sorts of things and questions and even plans when the thought of a possible relapse comes. It's all in the mind and it affects my belief system and feelings begin to roll inside. Sometimes, it starts to rain when I think of it and how much time I have left to do what I've planned to do with the rest of my life. Yet, the Bible says in Prov 16:

1Mortals make elaborate plans,
but GOD has the last word.

2Humans are satisfied with whatever looks good;
GOD probes for what is good.


3Put GOD in charge of your work,
then what you've planned will take place.

4GOD made everything with a place and purpose;
even the wicked are included--but for judgment.

5GOD can't stomach arrogance or pretense;
believe me, he'll put those upstarts in their place.

6Guilt is banished through love and truth;
Fear-of-GOD deflects evil.

7When GOD approves of your life,
even your enemies will end up shaking your hand.

8Far better to be right and poor
than to be wrong and rich.

9We plan the way we want to live,
but only GOD makes us able to live it.

It is so good to know that my life is in His Hands and I can stay secure in Him every moment of the day. Once again I am reminded, that God can be trusted. It's a new day, a new day to renew my trust and confidence in the maker of my life again.

Bless each of you to have a blessed week where you place all your confidence in Jehovah God!

david

Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.

-- Corrie ten Boom

Josh is better/ my back aches

Hi,
thank you for praying for Josh - he is better today but still has slight fever.
His general condition is stable and thank God, he is still very cheerful and playful except for a while last night when the ulcer in the mouth caused some pain.

I would like to request prayer for my backache, near the Right kidney region.It's been aching this whole day. Hope it's not any kidney problem. Also had bleeding piles this morning with slight diarrhoea.No fever.Recently had been feeling thirsty in spite of drinking lots of water to hydrate myself, thus waking up more to use the restroom.

I will be seeing Dr. Koh tommorrow at SGH for the above problems and usual follow up.

Will update you again.



Clinging on to Jesus,
david

Josh - Fever still soaring high

Dear all,
Brought Josh to see the doctor yesterday. Diagnosed to have viral infection. So he's on syptomatic treatment for the fever and blocked nose. The fever goes up and down. The last temperature taken today at noon was 40C.

We want to thank you for praying for us,
david & Whee Ling

Pray for Josh - down with high fever

Dear friends,
Josh is down with very high fever today. It was about 39.7 at about 11pm. He was complaining of an abdominal upset in the middle of the night. He has no diarrohea or vomitting. Probably exhausted and dehydrated due to late nights the past few days because of the memorial services at Whee Ling's grandma's wake. The fever has subsided as supporsitory was given him to bring the temperature down.Please pray he will not have any infection and get well soon.

On Monday, the 8th rib of my left chest was fractured when I was doing something. I heard the crack sound and immediately, I knew it must be a fracture because the pain was exactly the same type and nature I had in Sept 2004 when 3 of my ribs were broken prior to my diagnosis of Multiple myeloma.

The following day, I saw Dr.Koh L P, another consultant at SGH. I was assured and sent home Dr William Hwang, my transplant physician is away on a conference overseas. Though he was away, I kept him informed regularly of my condtion. He has always been so very kind and caring in looking after me despite his busy schedule and personal life. Am really thankful for these doctors who operate as an united team.

As soon as I got home, I was running a temperture. I was afebrile when my temperature was taken at SGH. Therefore, I went back to the hospital as advised to whenever I have a fever.

A series of blood and urine tests were done including the cultures to see if there is any infection in the system. Dr. Hwang also advised a full Myeloma studies and a skeletal survey be done. The results will only be out much later during the week or so. Please pray that there will be no relapse as I can't imagine going all over again. Honestly,it is scary, but it comforts me just to know that God is watching over me all the time.

In the midst of all my concerns, my heart was encouraged by the Nurse manager of the haematology Centre, SGH. She gave me a poem entitled "don't quit". It is very easy to succumb to the negative emotions during such a time. At times, I get very tired of all the check-ups; medications and their side-effects. Sometimes, when the physical afflictions come, it affects me psychologically, often how long more do I have to pull thru. And, if not for the Lord's word and guidance, not working to provide for my family sometimes make me feel very lousy, let alone losing the entire ministry after obeying the Lord to start the ministry at RiverPlace Church.All these things do make me feel that life has become purposeless, yet in all these, I learn to wait upon Him in stillness of my heart each day in order to find His purpose for all that He has allowed me and given me the strength to go thru. I'd almost quit, but glad I didn't as I hung on to the promise in Psm 23:6 that "surely the goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life".

Many of you came to bring God's comfort and strength to us - Whee Ling was very close to her grandma and your presence meant so much to her in a time of loss like this.The funeral was on Sat 18/2 and she is very exhausted having to be at the wake for so many days. She had been taking me to the hospital to and fro and now, when just when all the dust is about to settle down, here comes a spike of fever on Josh.
Another battle - but we know that God will never fail us by giving us the strength though we grow tired and weary.

We await to see God's goodness in the land of the living,

Thank you for your prayers.
david


Don't quit
One day I decided to quit...
I quit my job, my relationship, my spirituality...
I wanted to quit my life.
I went to the woods to have one last talk with God.
"God", I said. "Can you give me one good reason not to quit?"

His answer surprised me...

"Look around", He said. "Do you see the fern and the bamboo?"

"Yes", I replied.

"When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds,
I took very good care of them.
I gave them light. I gave them water.

The fern quickly grew from the earth.
Its brilliant green covered the floor.

Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed.
But I did not quit on the bamboo.

In the second year the Fern grew more vibrant and plentiful.
And again, nothing came from the bamboo seed.
But I did not quit on the bamboo. He said.

"In the third year, there was still nothing from the bamboo seed.
But I would not quit.

In the fourth year, again, there was nothing from the bamboo seed.
"I would not quit." He said.

"Then in the fifth year a tiny sprout emerged from the earth.
Compared to the fern it was seemingly small and insignificant...

But just 6 months later the bamboo rose to over 100 feet tall.
It had spent the five years growing roots.
Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive.

I would not give any of my creations a challenge it could not handle."
He said to me. "Did you know, my child, that all this time you have been struggling,
you have actually been growing roots"

"I would not quit on the bamboo. I will never quit on you."
"Don't compare yourself to others." He said.
"The bamboo had a different purpose than the fern.
Yet, they both make the forest beautiful."

"Your time will come", God said to me. "You will rise high!"
"How high should I rise?" I asked.

"How high will the bamboo rise?" He asked in return.
"As high as it can?" I questioned.
"Yes." He said, "Give me glory by rising as high as you can."
I left the forest and bring back this story.

I hope these words can help you see that God will never give up on you.
He will never give up on you.

God says in Psalms 84: 11 that the Lord Jesus is your “sun (to give you warmth and joy) and shield (to protect you) and He will not withhold good things from those who walk uprighteously.” No problem is too big for God to carry on His shoulder. Come to Him in prayer.

Never regret a day in you life.
Good days give you happiness;
Bad days give you experiences;
Both are essential to life.

Keep going....don't quit.

Need your prayers

Dear all,
I had been waking often at night to drink because of my hiccups. As a result, I tend to go to the toilet often as well. Usually I cannot sleep by 5+ in the morning due to hunger too. The constant waking caused me to be exhausted and have headache.

Plese pray for Whee Ling too - she is very tired physically as well.

Thank you for praying,
david

My Discharge & Demise of Whee Ling's Grandma

Dear all,
With God's grace new measure of grace each passing day, He has enabled me to cross over another hurdle. The infection has been cleared. I was discharged yesterday after the blood cultures show no negative results.

Please pray for Whee Ling as she has been very exhausted after running up and down SGH to see me and her grandma as well.Her grandma, who is 89, a christian, went to be with our maker early this morning at 5am. From a patient's perspective, I am glad the Lord has relieved her of her suffering as she is very old, bed-ridden with very badly broken skin lesions and discharges. Whee Ling has gone down to the hospital again and do pray for strength and comfort for the family.

Thanks - for all your sms-es, calls and visits - our hearts are strengthened by your love and prayers.

dave

Joshua's rabbits

 
 

Giving up the rabbits

Thank God David is not having fever anymore. He is on IV antibiotics. We are praying and hoping that the blood culture result be good and he could be discharged soon.

We were not sure how David could have gotten the infecion and in order to rule out every possibile cause, we thought it might be good to persuade Josh to give away his 2 pet rabbits. The rabbits were given to him a few months ago and Josh loves playing with them. David's mum and I told him Daddy's hospitalisation may be due to hygiene problem caused by the rabbits. With that, our sensible little boy told me "I was also thinking that the rabbits were not so good for Daddy. When I carry and play with them, some fur came out. I think we can give them away and when Daddy is well, we can keep another pet." I was so overjoyed to have some a caring and understanding son. Praise the Lord for His good works in Joshua's life! Though he may be young, slightly more than 5 1/2 year old, he does show a maturity beyond his age.

So, now what we need to do is to find out who would want to adopt those rabbits. Mike's friend expressed interest to have them and we hope they could quickly find their new home before David is discharged from the hospital.

God bless,
Whee Ling

Being admitted to SGH again

David finally got up at 7:30pm after lying down/sleeping since 10:30am on his birthday. He was found to be running a fever, 37.9 degrees. We quickly arranged for him to leave for A&E. Dr William ever cautioned us to be admitted once he was found to have fever. We were thankful that he did not have any fever eversince his transplant up till now. Without further delay, Michael, his brother and I sent him to A&E. Within less than an hour, his temperature shot up to 38.9. When the doctor mentioned his fever was almost 39, I was so glad we made the right move. He had a jab, took an X-ray and was promptly warded. The X-ray result showed a little infection in his lungs. Of course, he would have to go thru all necessary tests, from blood culture to... Other than feeling extremely exhausted and cold, he also complained about his persistent headache which started in the morning. While Michael sent us to the hospital, I was praying and also sms-ing prayer requests to uphold him before the Lord, our Healer. When I left the hospital, he was already visibly better. Priase the Lord! Having prayer support from family and friends is the greatest form of support and comfort I experienced.

Even though this is not exactly the preferred way to celebrate David's birthday, it was heart warming to know so many people cared for David. We deeply appreciate all for praying and also the kind and loving intention of some of our friends who actually planned to give David a surprise celebration. He smiled when I told him of the foiled plan to bless him. I knew from his expression his heart was blessed by the love and friendship.

God is love.

While driving back from the hospital, a song I knew when I was in school came to my mind:

"My Lord loves me and Oh the wonder I see,
The rainbow shines in my window,
My Lord loves me."

Knowing He loves me gives me hope and strength for each new day.
Be blessed by His love!
Whee Ling

prayfordavid - on his birthday

Today is David's birthday. When I asked Joshua this morning what special occassion 11Feb is, he answered without hesitation "it is Daddy's birthday!". So our sweet little darling boy wished his daddy "Happy Birthday, Daddy!" the moment he saw him.

Today is a day of celebration for our family. While for weeks I was thinking about how to celebrate - a surprise party?, get-together with family and friends... but with my grandma in the hospital and the adjustment we are going through with our new domestic helper (our previous helper Connie has gone home to tend to her family's needs after being with us for 5 years), I did not manage to make any plans. But thank God for David's family. His parents and siblings organized a birthday celebration at our place. Right now as I am updating this blog, they are busy cooking, making preparation for dinner. The only problem is David is still sleeping, resting in bed. He looked pale this morning and had gone back to bed right after a light breakfast. He complained of stomache cram but assured me his is ok. I requested for him to sms Dr Hwang but he said it is not necessary. He has been sleeping till now and I am getting a bit worried. Please pray that he is ok.

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Dear all,
Just to update you - the Cystoscopy was cancelled as the Dr thinks that the urine tests done as well as the other investigations were normal. My next review with the Urologist is in a month's time.

Dr. William Hwang plans to cut down the dosages of the immuno-suppresants that I have been taking. This will help reduce the side effects of the medications. But great care and control are needed. Please pray for wisdom upon him as he carefully monitors my condition. I feel safe in his hands.My next appointment is next Monday.

Always grateful for your concern,
david

"Walk in all the way that the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess."

Deuteronomy 5:33

Admission/Discharge from SGH

Dear all,
On Thursday, 2 Feb, I went to bed early after feeling tired and a little unwell.I also had a little diarrhoea.

During my sleep, I woke several times with cold sweat though I was sleeping with the air-conditioner on. Just before mid-night, I woke up again and this time, I vomitted several times. My BP was about 150/100. I sms-ed Dr William Hwang and was told to go to A&E dept, SGH for admission. I am thankful that my transplant physician bothered to call to enquire about me and to talk to the medical staff on call though it was past midnight when he could have gone to rest for the day.

At about 4am, I was wheeled to ward 72 where I am usually warded. Seeing some of the familiar nursing staff there helped allayed many of my anxieties, knowing that they are specially trained to nurse patients with bone-marrow transplants. Later the duty medical doctor came to clerk my case and I was told that all my blood tests were normal. I was then put on a drip to hydrate my body due to the vomitting and diarrhoea.Thank God it's just Gastroenteritis, must have eaten something wrong that evening. Or chinese new year cookies!

Because of pain in my throat and right ear, I was also refered to see a Senior ENT consultant the next day who is a christian. When he found out what I was working as, he even waived the charges for all the procedures done to check my ear and throat.
He took very good care of me - carefully examining,explaining everything to me. Thank God for placing such fine christian doctors in the healthcare industry to watch over patients like me. Indeed, God is always good, regardless of the sufferings.

Let me share with you one of the greatest blessings so far this year.
My parents came to see me yesterday at my home. What was really wonderful to me was to hear them pray for me. I was specially delighted because I know my uneducated parents have learned to pray in their simple ways though they do not know how to read the bible. And I know that they have learned to call upon the Lord during such times in our family crisis. Above all, I am thankful to hear them give thanks to God for all He's done for us. In fact, the day before, my father called me and at the end of the telephone conversation, for the very first time, I heard him say "Thank you, Lord" in mandarin. Indeed, it was a joy for me just to see them growing in Christ. Thank God for my monthly family prayer meetings. I am seeing more and more fruits and breakthroughs that has come out of the simple gathering of the family to worship, pray and spur one another.

Thank you all for praying for me and my family. Your prayers and encouragement have always helped us to know we are not alone.

Finally, please pray for
1. Whee Ling's grandma who is warded in Ward 73. He is in her 80's and is very ill. She has diabetes and her skin is very badly torn with foul-smelling fluids flowing out.She is a christian and we are releasing her to the Lord. Please pray that God will see her suffering and relief her of it.

2. My medical appointments this week:
A. 6/2, morning - See Dr. William Hwang for weekly follow up
B. 6/2, 11.45am - Head scan
C. 6/2, 2pm - see Urologist for Cystoscopy (Bladder check)

3. 7/2 - See Dental Surgeon for follow up of my oral GVHD - it's much better now than the last hospitalisation in Oct 2005

4. 9/2 - follow up appt with ENT specialist.

Thanks for standing with us in the gap,
david

"The fear of the Lord leads to life; Then one rests content, untouched by trouble."
Proverbs 19:23

In a dream, I heard His voice

Dear all,
Just to update you. The IVU done was ok. There were apparently no clear abnormalities seen although the view was obstructed by lots of faecal matter and abdominal gas in spite of bowel preparation.The constipation must be due to one of the drugs that I am taking.

Monday was the day I went for what is called flexible cystoscopy, where a device will be inserted to see the bladder. It was cancelled and postphoned to 6 Feb after the doctor found some white blood cells in the urine.

Please pray that the urinary system will be found normal. Frankly, it's been emotionally tiring at times when I go for different appointments at the hospital. I can practically spend the whole day there waiting, change into the attire for whatever procedures and later realize that it has to be cancelled for very good reasons. Not the fault of the hospital or doctors, but simply the little frustrations patients like me have to bear with in the midst of what we are going thru.

Yes,I do complain silently in me. I do fret in my soul. And in my spirit too. Only the Lord knows. Probably that's why I shout or even wail in my dreams at night. The other night, Whee Ling woke up after hearing me wailing in my sleep. In my dream, I found myself going through many walls looking for something when all of a sudden, I heard the audible, very manly voice of God calling out to me saying, "Are you ok?". That's when I cried out to Him, "I am very scared!". Just then, Whee Ling woke up and asked if I was alright and instantly I answered her that I was ok, not knowing exactly what I answered her. The next day she said I told her I was looking for the Lord. Now I understand why I was going thru so many walls in the dream. I am glad I heard the voice of the Lord in the dream. Whether it is the real voice of God or not, I am assured that his promise to never forsake or leave me is always so assuring and real for a person like me who is learning to fear no evil....Psm 23.

So much about my silent complaining! Do you know what keeps my mouth shut when I complain? When I look at other patients who are worse than me.

There is a man in his fifties who also goes for his regular checkups at the Haematology Centre at SGH. I have seen him many times. Talked to him several times as well.A stem cell transplant was done 3 years ago and till this day, he is still on a wheelchair. Besides, there were many other complications along the way. Thus, he has to go for so many appointments every week in the hospital- one moment to see the eye doctor; another to see for his liver condition and so on.... on a wheelchair by Taxi accompanied by his wife. I just can't imagine the pain and frustration in him. Life to him is like visiting the hospital every other day. Mind you, on a wheelchair. I am thankful that I am not on one, tho I do have several checkups with different disciplines for my condition. But what's that compared to some of these people whom I see there whose situation are far worse that mine. And I wonder how they cope, especially when they do not know the Lord. But for me, and you, we have the Lord! We have the Lord EVERYDAY, every moment of our lives to be with us for He said that He told His disciples that He will not leave us as orphans but will come to us. The Holy Spirit has come. he is our Comforter and friend. But more than that, he is the Triune God who is awesome like a comsuming fire. Therefore, you and I will fear no evil no matter what 'shadow of death' we face in life's journey. Wow, such is our God, a very, ever present God who will protect and provide our veery need.

I am ok - I pray you experience His presence today and always in a very meaningful way too in every step of your way.

Thank you for sharing our journey.

Dave

"Our circumstances are not an accurate reflection of God's
goodness. Whether life is good or bad, God's goodness, rooted in His character, is the same" -- Helen Grace Lescheid

Referal to Urologist, SGH

Dear all,
Seen Dr.William this morning and was refered to the Urologist at SGH in the late afternoon.

Had been waking up to PU at least 3X every night since 2 weeks ago. Noticed frequency has increased during the day as well. Sometimes the urge to comes comes so suddenly and I find it hard to control for long. Urine test(FEME) shows some blood tho the previous urine taken for culture of bacteria was normal. Taken 1 more specimen for urine culture today.

The Urologist did an ultra sound of the bladder.He has also scheduled me for an IVU (Intravenous Pyelogram) on Wed pm.A flexible cystoscopy may be done on Monday, 23 Jan depending on the findings of the IVU.

Would appreciate your prayers very much as I entrust this to the Sovereign Lord,
dave

Josh shares gospel with Adrian

 
 

Resolved, never to do anything, which I should be afraid to do, if it were the last hour of my life.

-- Jonathon Edwards

Growing through all these experiences

Dear friends,
A very Christ-filled, fruitful and blessed new year to each and all!

Christmas has come and gone. The new year has come. How time flies!
And I am thankful for every new breadth and life that God has given me.
We all know that life cannot be taken for granted - just in Singapore alone, we hear and read in the news that many people from all walks of life face sudden deaths and tragedies in unexpected ways. It shows that life is indeed fragile.
Thus Psalm 146:2 has been one of my favourite verses since. It says,
"Praise the Lord, O my soul.
I will praise the Lord all my life;
I will sing praise to my God AS LONG AS I LIVE.

This verse has been constantly on my mind eversince the Lord gave to prepare my heart while waiting for the BMA results and full myeloma studies then at TTSH (Tan Tock Seng Hospital) in Sept 2004.It has helped me to fill my mouth with thankfulfulness and to appreciate life more. Most of all, it focuses my heart and mind to know that we do not "put our trust in princes or in mortal men who cannot save, but find our help in the Sovereign God". (Psm 146:3-6)

I have a journal where I only record short notes and mainly thanksgiving items everyday. Had been doing this for many years now in order to learn to be thankful.
But when I look back to see all that had been written, I am amazed to see His hand of mercy on my life. My faith in Christ has never been so tested before though there were real difficult times in my family; in the ministry especially when I was in Russia as a missionary.I am thankful that my faith stood firm when faced with the ultimate crisis of an illness that has not found a cure so far and death. But God demonstrated Himself to be very real even in the darknesses that I faced. My knowledge of Him was growing through all these experiences.And each of you has contributed much to this growth in the Lord.Your faith and trust in the Lord had injected more faith in me to place my complete confidence and entire life in His hands.Thankyou!

Christmas and new year were rather quiet for us as a family. No carolling; no parties; no special events. Though it was quiet, I am glad to receive the best Christmas gift I've ever received in my life - the good news about my condition that's in complete remission now. In fact, there is another gift that I received the following day after the first good news - it was when my 10year old neighbour came over to our place to play with Josh. It was a great joy to see Josh asking him if he(Adrian) knew anything about heaven and hell. Then Josh went straight into his room to take his children's Bible and returned to share with Adrian all that he knows about heaven and hell. In his simple faith, he went on to tell him of the need to forsake and remove all the idols in his home.This joy has been in my heart even till today - to see Josh motivated by the Holy Spirit to share that knowledge of God and the love of Jesus on his own. It brings great joy to see the fruit of fathering, and mothering, as we constantly speak a blessing and pray for the prebelievers whom we come across daily.After all, the most important thing in parenting is to see our children know the Awesome God and grow to share His goodness to all.Please pray with us that Josh will grow up to love the Lord and I hope I'll live to see him grow up as a godly man.

Thank you for praying for my current situation. I am coping fairly ok with the oral GVHD in spite of the frustrations and physical discomfort.The sinusitis is clearing though the nasal discharges keep flowing all day long. Thanks for all your concern and messages.

Let's grow in greater intimacy with our great God and King this year! Together!

dave
Resolved, never to do anything, which I should be afraid to do,
if it were the last hour of my life.
-- Jonathon Edwards

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year! The Steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercy never comes to an end. His faithfulness are new every morning, new every year!

Once again, we experienced His grace and mercy as the new year unfolds. Just a couple of days ago, David was coughing, had alot of phlegm, eyes were puffy and red and he even vomited quite badly last Tues morninig. In Joshua's words over the phone (I called from the office), he told me "Daddy vomited, oh so terrible. I was in the bathtub, I drew the shade..what do you call that...(I said shower curtain), oh yes, shower curtain, then I open, he vomited again, I closed it again, then opened, he vomited again, I closed it again..so terrible. He is sleeping now." That was noon time on 03Jan06 and David told me he was going to see Dr William and would be driving himself there. I was anxious and thoughts of "what ifs" made it worse. What if the GVHD (Graft vs Host Disease) becomes chronic and is not just in his mouth but other organs as well? What if it becomes life threatening? What if the new immunosuppression drugs to treat the GVHD is causing complications? What if things turn out for the worse???? What if on the way he was too sick to drive and cannot concentrate? The list goes on... but thank God He is the source of comfort and strength and very present help in time of need. I quickly activated prayer request via sms to our family and some close friends and prayed.

God is so good! So glad to have heard from David later that evening that he had blood tests done, X-ray and did not vomit anymore, he does not need to be warded. Dr William told him the vomiting, hands trembling and giddiness were likely symptoms caused by the drugs. David also has sinusitis and probably urinary tract infection. It was made worse by infection from others who were coughing and having flu as his immunity is still low. Since he is still on antibotics, he just need to wait for the infection to clear.As of today, he is still coughing and has bad nasal discharges.

Dear friends and blogger friends whom we have never met, may I request that if you are praying to the Lord Jesus Christ, the great Divine Healer, for David, please pray that:
1. his sinusitis and urinary infection will clear soon;
2. his oral GVHD will be well controlled. A little GVHD is good (it helps to prevent tumour from growing as the graft is 'fighting' the cancer cells) but it has to be treated to prevent the oral GVHD from affecting the guts and lungs..etc.
The oral GVHD caused the skin inside his mouth to breakdown and he actually experienced pain in his mouth and throat when eating and swallowing food. Spicy food is out for him for now. Please pray that the oral GVHD improves soon as David has been bearing with this for quite a while.
3. he will be completely healed of mulitple myeloma and will not suffer relapse. Dr explained that complete remission does not mean all myeloma cells are totally gone but that the bone marrow test(BMA) and other blood tests showed no evidence of it being in his body now.

Am going to claim complete healing by faith in Jesus Name! Thanks for agreeing with me for the bible says when 2 or 3 agree, it shall be established! Amen!

The amazing thing is God's love is not limited or conditional. What He can do for David and our family, He can do for all who need His touch of healing and provision.

May your 2006 be filled with God's undying love, the grace of our Lord Jesus and fellowship of the Holy Spirit. May your life be blessed with lots of miracles and testimonies for His glory. Have a Blessed 2006!

With you in Christ,
Whee Ling
God bless

Best Christmas gift ever!

Praise the Lord!!!! Even if we remain silent the stones will cry out praises!
I am so grateful so thankful so.... beyond words to describe how relief I felt and how deeply appreciative of the Lord's love for David and our family.

The sms from Dr William to David a couple of days ago reads "BMA is very nice in complete remission..." I will leave it to David to share with you the details later.

Thanks to all for praying. Thanks to our Lord God Almighty who answers prayers. Rejoice in the Lord always!

God bless,
Whee Ling

Next Check up on 5/12/2005

Dear all,
I have been well lately except for mild residual symptoms of the oral GVHD still in the mouth. The dental surgeon, who is part of the stem-cell transplant team at the National dental Centre, Singapore saw me this week. She is quite happy that the oral GVHD has subsided except for a few lesions which were seen. She attributed it to the fact that because I am immuno-compromised as well as due to the immuno-suppressants that I am taking, I am prone to viral infections.

My next appointment with Dr. William is on Monday, 5/12. The next BMA (Bone marrow aspiration) is due.The last done showed 3% of myeloma in my body.Do covet your prayers in this - good results and minimal pain during procedure.

I like to request your prayers specially for Jimmy, a Leukaemia patient whom I had ministered to in the hospital and had by God's grace rededicated his life to the Lord. He has just been warded yesterday for a relapse. His transplant was done in early May.Putting myself in his shoes, I can imagine all the thoughts and feelings that he is going thru right now. Yet Jimmy knows now in his heart that Jesus is with Him and is in Sovereign control of his life. That's the wonderful thought - to know what God is doing in a life when he returns to the saving grace of the Lord. God is doing a wonder - even in our suffering.

To me, sometimes we may not know all the reasons for our suffering. Job didn't know either. But he knows God knows. That's a precious thought for me - to know that God knows. And that's enough strength for me - to know that my creator and maker of my knows what He is doing. I rest my all in this sweet knowledge and in Him.

thanks for praying,
david

"You become a Cancer conqueror not because you go into remission - Instead, you become a cancer conqueor because you choose to become a new person."
- Greg Anderson, Author of Cancer Conqueror.

Feeling a lot better...thx for coming before the altar of grace and mercy

Dear all,
Thank you for all your encouragement to me in so many different ways - emails; sms; calls and even personal letters to my home. It's good to receive letters that are still much more personal in this high tech age. Thank you also for your constant prayers before the throne of grace, the altar where we can all find mercy and grace for every need and to figth every battle in the heavenlies. Above all, I am reminded that the altar is primarily a place of worship. I learned that when Paul and Silas were in jail, they did not worship God just to get out of prison. They started worshipping God because, HE IS GOD!

Friends, as we all pray, let's worship God for all that He is. Not just coming before Him with our 'wish list'.But as we look to the Almighty God, we have this faith and hope that He will do great and mighty things. That's the God we had - reagrdless of our struggles and battles in this temporary life.

Well, On Monday, I had my check up with Dr. William. I always thx God for him. I wrote an sms to him to bless him that same day. He replied that he is just prescribing me medicine. So humble hor! But I know God has divinely arranged for this beloved man of God to watch over me. I'm in good hands.

All the blood tests are alright. I am feeling very much more comfortable (feels so good to be free from physical suffering!) now as the periodic leg cramps are gone. My oral GVHD has also subsided tremenduously. The cough is completely gone and thank God there is no lung GVHD or TB. Though I have lost quite a bit of weight since my discharge, I am eating fairly well and trying to exercise a little to regain some muscle tone. My next medical appointment is on December the 5th. A BMA (bone marrow aspiration) will be done again to determine the percentage of the myeloma cells in my body.The last done was 3%.

I have resumed my morning walks at the beach as well. I really enjoy the walk because as I walk, I get to talk a lot to the Lord as it is difficult sometimes to pour out my heart to others.But the Lord is there all the time when I'm walking or driving-especially at the moment when the heart is touched or when I get quite emotional at the very moment when a deep thought comes, I know my faithful and true redeemer is there for me.

My morning walk is also a time where I listen to the heart of God while walking and meditating on the word of God. He is a God who speaks and I'm glad He's been ministering to me daily.

If any of you would like to join me now and then for the walk, do let me know. You'll be glad you took a break to spend some time with our loving Father who always longs to walk and talk with His children.

Honestly, I can't imagine how I can cope without the Spirit of God comforting and causing me to fix my eyes on His Sovereignty. Thank you again for praying for me.

Gal 5:25, "Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit."

regards,
david.

A Season of Rest & Family Prayer Meeting on 4.11.2005

Dear all,
Thank you all for all your emails, sms-es and even calls. Whee Ling and I appreciate all the care and concern shown by many of you. We are so blessed and have received so much love from the body of Christ at large in Singapore and all over the world. It is a time, a time in our lives where we are learning to receive God's goodness and blessings through you. Initially, it was a little difficult, especially for us leaders who are so used to so-called giving. But learning to receive is important as well. I believe,God is using this time to refresh our spirits - especially having served in the ministry for the past 15 years for me in the pastorate without any sabbatical.God is also calling me to a season of rest in Him.

Today, I want to share with you 2 things that God is doing at this time of my life:

As I sought the Lord, I believe:
1. God is calling me to a season of rest/Sabbatical in Him.
2. God is doing a great work in my family of origin.

1. Season of Rest
You know resting is tough. Singaporeans are busy people. We run from place to place to run errands; meetings and even shopping. Especially for men. Men find great significance in our work. It reveals our great dependence on what we do for our identity. Everybody wants to do well and finish life well. And success is so important to us, especially in this little small country called 'Temasek/meaning small' that tries to be significant int this huge world that we live in.

Stepping into the world of cancer changed my whole life - my outlook in life and my lifestyle. It is very strange - it's all in the mind. Suddenly you find yourself viewing life from a very different perspective - especially in the light of eternity. Because I know that one cannot bring anything into the box when one passes on - our wealth/possesions and our work/positions. Nothing! But it is real.When faced with life's traumas or critical losses like failing health or loss of wealth; job or even important relationships, one is forced to rearrange his whole lifestyle. Such changes affect men deeply at his ego and being.It affected me.

That's what happened to me. While I know that God is Sovereign, the waiting upon Him has not been easy.While God has spoken since the beginning of the illness from Psm 27:13-14 - that I will see the goodness of the Lord in the living,it has not been easy trying to learn to wait upon Him; waiting for the healing; waiting for His will and His purpose to unfold. The waiting for everything to be over. The waiting to soar like the eagle. In waiting, I felt lousy that my whole life is 'on hold'. And soon my heart became weary - weary of just focus on looking after Josh the whole day and just doing all the so-called mundane things at home. Weary because I do not have the strength to do many things during the day as I can be very tired by late afternoon. As a result, I began to deel insignificant that I have become ineffective ang have to let go of many things that I was doing and planned to do, especially in the new church that I started in April 2003. Loosing a position feels like a small death though I know in my spirit that this is God is at work in my life.By the grace of God, He used Phil 1 verse 18 to enable me to let go. Paul was in jail and there were people who began to preach Christ out of wrong motives and selfish ambition. But Paul, the Apostle, who is definitely Spirit-filled, said "But does it really matter?". That helped me to understand that nothing belongs to me in this world.

A few weeks before I was hospitalized, I went to the beach at Bedok Jetty-the usual place where I take my morning walks before fetching Josh from the school at 11am. Usually I will walk, and as I walk, I talk to the Lord and allow Him to speak to me. Then I will stop to ponder on what he has spoken to my heart - very often bringing back scripture/s that the Holy Spirit brings to rememberance.(John 14:26)

That morning, I told God many things that were long in my heart. I told him the cries of my heart.Then He spoke to me. The Holy Spirit brought John 17:3 to my mind. I said, "I know all about this verse. It's about eternal life right - that is to know you, the true God". I said," knowing You has been my desire, but about now, I need to know what you are up to. I am getting listless and tired."

Just then, the Lord spoke this Rhema word to me. He said, "I am your Father and Know me as a son and I will show you how to father Josh as I father you." Wow! That was profound. Jesus came primary to reveal His father to His disciples and the world.I learn that my main role is to reveal God the Father to Josh. Fathering is one of the most important tasks on the face of the earth. That's an awesome task. Suddenly, my spirit was awakened by this word. It's a great job! A good job too!I told God that I want to be the best father I can be to Josh as He fathers me.

You know, many of us have seen the children, especially the sons, of many pastors who have gone astray because we've spent too much time in the ministry. To me, I can try to save the whole for Jesus, but may loose my very own son. That's not sacrifice. That's neglect.In the end, one has to do more curative work, rather than preventive. So, I am thankful for the word from God - to pour all that I am and I have on Josh and let God impart upon Him all that He wants josh to become. Now that I got heard from the Lord and the facts into perspective. I realized that position or posessions do not define who we are. I learned that even if a man does not have position, there is something more significant - his personal influence.While it is true that position; performance; power or posessions can weild influence, the influence of person ( who you are) is the most valuable. While influence may be lost once your postion, power, performance and poseesions are removed, who you are can be never.God can us me to love,influence and place a special impartation of God's blessings upon Josh and to influence the hearts of many for His glory - especially in sharing the goodness of God thru this illness and what God is doing in my family.

Therefore,I covet your prayers for me in this area - that this season will be a time for deepening my walk with the only true God and father and that I will father Josh with His great, undying love.It's all about intimacy with my Father above and my son here on earth.

" Now this is eternal life: that they may know You, the Only True God,and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent." John 17:3

2. Family Prayer Meeting:
My family of origin/Ong family meet monthly to bond and to pray for each other. We have done this for a while now. What used to be an awkward time for many of us has become a place where we see the transforming grace of God do a great work in each one.

In this meeting, we worship together as a family. In this place, we share our needs and pray for each other. During this time,we intercede for those in our family that have yet to come to receive Jesus as their Saviour and Lord. By the grace of God, many in our family have come to the Lord. I am glad to inform you that the children of our youngest sister are attending a children ministry where they are enjoying themselves as they learn the things of God.

Also, a 9 year-old nephew of mine brought a friend his age to join us in the gathering. At the end of it, he told us that his friend wanted to believe in Jesus. We are all very happy to share with you that Jeremy had the opportunity and priviledge to bring Rose to the saving knowledge of God personally that night. It's happening! And we know that God is in our midst and will continue to work a wonder in this family.

Finally, we were so blessed to have an American,lovely couple who came to encourage us. They are the directors of a missionary organisation. And had come to share the joy of what God is doing in our family all these years. They also encouraged us to release my youngest brother and his family to return to the mission field where he had been a tent-maker for 3 years. We believe God will use him and his family to serve and build many families there and enlarge God's territory in the families in that land.

God is at work in the Ong family. He is at work in us and will answer the prayers we offer to Him - especially that of reclaiming the souls and salvation of those in our immediate family that have yet to turn their hearts to Jesus.

Well, so much has been shared. Thank you for bearing with me. I simply pour out what's in my heart to share with you this journey that God is bringing my family through. It is our prayer that God will use this blog to encourage and stir your heart to keep looking to our Amazing God as we learn to look to Him in all our circumstances - especially in bringing your own unsaved loved ones in your family.

Thank you once again for praying with us.

Dave Ong
"All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord,
and all the families of the nations will bow down before Him,
for dominion belongs to the Lord and He rules over the nations".
Psalm 22: 27-28

Thanksgiving to the Lord

"Oh, give thanks to the Lord for He is good! For His mercy endures forever." Ps 107:1

Praise the Lord for His mercy, for His lovingkindness, for His faithfulness!!!
Our dear Father God has once again answered our prayers so graciously and delivered us from our distresses. Josh recovered very quickly from his flu this time. He was unwell on Fri and by Sat morning, his fever was gone. The Lord has also protected David from catching the flu bug from Josh.

David had his medical appointment yesterday and we are really glad to report that the results were very good.

"He sent His word and healed them, And delivered them from their destructions. Oh that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, And for His wonderful works to the children of men!" Ps 107:20,21.

Thanks for praying and may we always turn to the Lord who delivers, always giving thanks to Him who loves us like no other. God bless you and family!

With deep gratitude,
Whee Ling

Thanks and Please...

Thanks:
Yes, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to all who prayed for us too. I am thankful for the safe journey back to Singapore and am delighted to be back with my family again. Special thanks to all who have rendered help to David and Josh when I was away in U.S.:
- David's brother Roger and his lovely wife Irene. Josh was staying with their family when David was in the hospital. Really grateful to have such wonderful family support. Josh enjoyed playing with his 3 cousins and staying with them was enjoyable for him (it was like going to a playcamp) and I believe it helped him cope tremendously well during our absence. Irene's almost daily sms to update how Josh was doing so was something I looked forward to and brought such joy to me. Thank You!!!
- John and Pastor Patrick for visiting David and bringing him cheer and encourgement while he was at the hospital. Pastor Adrian for sending David to and fro from the hospital when he was on home leave for a day that Sunday.
- The doctors, nurses and the 2 lovely pharmacists at Ward 72 for taking care of David during his stay at the hospital
- My wonderful mother-in-law for staying over at our place to help look after David when he was home after being discharged from the hospital.
- My wonderful mum for all her labour of love which David mentioned already in his updates.
- My dear sister Cindy who took time out between her appointments to ferry Josh from school
- All who prayed and interceded for our family - especially people like Jimson;Annette andMike; There is no way I could repay your kindness but just pray that all your love and kindness be handsomely rewarded by our Heavenly Father!

and
Please:
Please pray for Josh and David to be healthy. My heart was so filled with anguish and anxiety a while ago till I found peace once again in the presence of My Lord...am reminded He is in control and He is love.
Josh was running a fever, up to 39.6 at around 2am. I also fear that David may catch the infection from Josh and...quite unthinkable what he may need to go thru just to treat any infection. Oh, "dear Lord, please have mercy and release healing and deliverance, in the awesome mighty name of Jesus. Amen!"

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

I Thank God for you.

Dear friends,
Greetings in the name of our Father who holds the keys to life and death!
By the time you read this, Whee Ling has already returned from North Carolina safely.God has heard your intercession for her to be at peace there and to be back safely.

Thank you each and all also for all your emails; sms-es; calls and most of all, your words of encouragement and prayers for my lovely wife, Josh and me during this whole year of our journey since the discovery of my illness. Without you, and the wonderful grace of God, of course, we wouldn't have come thus far. Knowing you are there for us in your own way and knowing Jesus is there in everyway keeps me praising the Lord as long as I live. (Psm 146:2)

The past 3 weeks were rather trying for me - physically and emotionally. The persistent cough throughout the whole day with other accompanying symptoms suggestive of GVHD in the mouth together with the drug toxicity (FK 506), an immuno-suppressant agent, made me very depressed and demoralised. After a while, my heart grew faint and weary. Going for simple diagnostic investigations like Xrays, biopsies and daily blood taking made me feel very lousy. In my heart I often wondered what's next and how long do I have to go through this. My soul was in auguish and deep inside me, it was like hurricane on the inside. Many negative thoughts flooded my soul though I know God is not finished with me yet.That's why I turned down dozens of you who wanted to visit me - I needed to rest and I was just not in the mood to 'entertain' anyone in the hospital. It is very tiring to repeat the story all over again and again - even in sms. Please accept my apologies and thanks for your understanding.

In a way, being alone was really good. Reading chunks of scripture in Isaiah, Job, Psalms and Philipians throughout my almost 2-week stay in all helped me refocus all my thoughts on the maker and shepherd of my life. Reading how men of old like Job and Paul who made it through painfully but stood firm victoriously encouraged my feeble heart and mind. Psalm 6 was also very intrumental for the Holy Spirit to identify and ventilate exactly all my questions; thoughts and feelings to the potter of this clay. His word repleted all the depleted fighting strength in me. Above all, Heb 12:2 specially reminded me to 'endure' like Jesus, who for the joy that was to come endured the CROSS. What a powerful reminder! That what I am going thru is really nothing but just a glimpse of what our dear Lord Jesus went through. He carried the sins of the whole world including mine on that wooden cross! Besides,I believe, like Paul, the Apostle said, we are called not just to believe but to suffer for Him.(Phil 1:29). An elderly man once commented that God is using this illness to punish me but knowing God and His wonderful attributes assures me that He is a good God who allows Satan to test my faith; He dsciplines me to build me up in my character so that I will become more and more like Him. Discipline, like in parenting, is often miscontrued as punishment. Discipline comes from the root word 'to diciple or to train'. Thus I know He who began a good work in me will complete it - so that His purpose and glory will be greatly displayed as I rely on His sufficient grace. You are part of this priviledged journey that God is bringing me through.I have grown because people like you prayed for me to persever. To endure.Thankyou!

Right now, I want to take this time to thank some people who have specially blessed and touched me in their unique ways. 'I thank God for you' - Phil 1:3.

- Thanks my dear Whee Ling for your understanding, silent support and love during this whole journey with me. Your standing by me all the way, in health and in sickness is a very godly way of helping me experience the word 'sacrifice'. You lived it out and given more deep insights in understanding and appreciating Christ's sacrifice for me in a very real and personal way.

- Rev Patrick Wong - a dear close friend and 'big' brother who always prays for me to hang on to Jesus and to look to Him all the time. Thx for sacrificing your time to fetch me to the hospital in spite of your busy schedule where you have so many other sheep to look after. You are truly a good shepherd, a good pastor who takes after our chief shepherd. All these years, you have set a great example for me to be a good pastor.You always do things in such quiet, meaningful ways to show you care. Thx also for coming to see me especially when all I simply needed was the silent presence of a friend who doesn't pretend to understand everything that patients like me go through in the silence of our hearts. God really knows when and who to send! Even the doctors and nurses think you are my brother!

- My mother-in-law. She has been bringing me different kinds of soups almost every day during my stay in the hospital. Not only have I gained a great wife, the double joy is having a mother-in-law who can cook and make different nutritional soups. Above all, I value such a mother-in-law who not only prayed for me in the hospital, but also went to comfort my anxious and worried mum to pray together with her. Praise God for her!

- John Chng. There are so many things to say about you. You are a true friend who has been there for me all these years and especially throughtout this
myeloma-journey with my family. I remember the weekly walks we had at the beach in order to help me get some simple exercises. It's been a year and you are still doing so many things for us, especially for me. Thx you and Hui Si too,for being a great god-pa/god-mum to Josh. Whee Ling and I entrust him totally to God but we know God has also graciously given you2 to share in this special friendship and to be Joshua's god-parents.

- Dr. Melvyn Koh. Please thx your wife,Jane and your cell group for praying for me.Thanks Melvyn for such an emphathetic doctor like you. You took time to visit me though you do not work in SGH. My ears were specially tuned to the few but timely, comforting words you said. Unlike Job's friends whose advice were uncalled for, I found your words comforting & encouraging as it were the very words of God were spoken thru you and the prayers from your heart very ministering.
Someone said, "love people use things". You use ice-cream. What a big tub! Josh loves it too! Bless you as you love your patients with the love of the Lord! You will be a great healing light that will make a difference in shining for our divine physician.

- Winston Lin. Knowing you since my first hospitalization in SGH till now has been such a blessing. Thanks for all your prayers and visits and for sharing your life with me. Your love for God is amazing for a young man like you. Your love for your pre-believing friends reminds that God can use all circumstances to advance the gospel. I also appreciate you greatly for reminding me that Jesus, our key shepherd who is constantly watching over me. That helps!
Friend,you will graduate and become a good and great doctor very soon as you learn to be like Doctor Jesus, our great shepherd!

- My whole family - sisters, brothers; nephews and nieces. Our family has never been so much closer all these years than now. In affliction and suffering, many ones of us have come to know Jesus personally. Each had been ushered into the kingdom of God slowly but surely through the years. The suffering we went through especially during the 10 years when Steven was in trouble had caused our family to come to pray together, standing together,resulting not just in the family becoming closer through prayer, but also seeing not just our parents reconciled and turning to God, but also the salvation of our eldest sis in KL coming to Jesus after 27 years! The Almighty God has heard the cries of our hearts.
Many hearts have yet to open their doors but thru my illness and our monthly family prayer meeting, I believe God is going to open wide the heavens for the rest of them to enter into the gates of heaven. Knowing my very own family is there for me during this crisis gives me great joy and strength to carry on for the sake of the cross. Thankyou for all the lovely cards and calls that your lovely children have sent and made. In sickness or in health; in riches or in poverty - we have seen it all - Let His name be glorified through this Ong family!

By the way - Happy birthday Angie! Thx my dear sister for giving me your stem cells for my bone marrow transplant. Dr.William shared the good news that the engraftment has been totally grafted. My blood group has also been changed from O+ to your blood group AB+. So if Philip observes that I may be behaving more like you now, just tell him not to fall for me! Send him to Dr.William for counselling!

- Now I cannot leave the experts out....... Dr.William Huang and his team of professional experts in the SGH bone marrow transplant team (Drs.Goh Yeow Tee; Micky Koh; Koh Liang Pui; Yvonne Loh; Colin;HO Lin& BMT co-ordinator Sister Jing Jing) as well as all the caring nurses and pharmacists in Haematology Centre and ward 72/SGH including the cleaner Shanti. Thx Dr.William for not just your professional care and duties, but also for your friendship. I see a man of God who serves His master physician and patients with His love.

Wow - this King of king's award can go on and on. My heart has been so moved by so many especially in this past year....I feel the love of God the love and care of all these mentioned and by many of you whom I have not mentioned here in writting as well. Time and space do not permit me but I am grateful for the friendship we share in Jesus, our best friend. Amen?!!

I like to end with this..... 2 nights ago, Josh and my niece, Arabella who stayed over at my place had devotion with me. I was sharing with them on hearing God's voice through impressions, visions and meditation on God's word. When we closed in prayer I asked them to ask God to speak to all of us. Josh saw an eagle in his mind. One that's flying elegantly. Immediately he said, "i remember the verse in that says the eagle soars. Just then, I hear the words 'be patient'as the Holy Spirit impressed upon me and at the very same time Josh exclaimed "Wait patiently!". I told him that Jesus was speaking to him and He finally heard the Lord speaking. Josh was so glad that God really can speak to him in his spirit using the word as he has always been wondering why he cannot hear God's voice since he cannot see or touch Him.You should see the excitement of this little child exhibiting his childlike faith!
Just then,Arabella shared that the eagle is looking for food. "Looking for food",Josh laughed.But with the simplicity and sincerity of her heart, she just said what she thinks the Lord revealed to her.Such childlike faith. I learned so much from them - simple faith! And God used them to remind me that in order to soar I need to wait patiently upon the Lord like Isa 40:31 promises. I must look into the word all day long,chew it, meditate upon it and receive it into my spirit in order to soar like the eagle. God is so gentle and loving to use these two little children to speak to me in particular.... to rejoice in my tribulation and not let the thief steal away the joy of Jesus in me, even in the midst of suffering.Please pray that I will always hold every deceptive and negative thought captive in Jesus' name!(Phil 4:8;)- wrong thinking can rob us of our joy daily in Christ.

Now that the Lord has kept my mind in perfect peace again as I learn to let my mind stayed on Him - I will persevere on. I will endure. I will overcome - as He overcome - even death on the cross. Please pray God will not let me suffer long but through each phase, grant me strength to ENDURE and learn the precious things He wants me to learn thru this and long for the fruit of longsuffering and patience.

Romans 5:3-4 "We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance , character; and character, HOPE.

You know, death is not scary. It is actually a glorious enterance into our Maker's glorious presence to be with Him eternally. Humanly speaking,the scary part is the process of dying and the suffering - that haunts me. Please do not get me wrong. I am not thinking of dying yet. With this ailment, God has opened up my eyes to see and my heart to feel for many in my life who are lost. I think there's still so much we want to do and achieve in life. But when afflicted with a condition like mine, suddenly my whole wholeview changes. There's nothing more important than hungering to know my creator as I cannot bring anything into the box when one passes on. Nothing - everyhting will be burnt and turned into ashes. Therefore, as long as the Lord gives me breadth, I want to tell of the goodness of the Lord in my life. I fear not death,for our lives are in God's hands and our names are written on the very palms of His Great hand. With such a peace and joy and blessed hope in Christ,I renew my trust and entrust my whole being and family to Him once again - for in Him we live and have our being!

Indeed, "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe." - Proverbs 18:10

Thx for 'listening' friend! And for all your love and prayers - you helped me live for Jesus more courageously! I thx God for you!

dave

Back to the hospital since 13 Oct 2005

Hi,

I was unable to post updates until today...much have happened since the last posting - David was requested to be admitted last Wed when he felt unwell. He felt a tightness in his chest, felt extremely tired because he could not sleep well and was very weak when he informed Dr William last week.

When he told me the news, I was scheduled to leave for US on my business trip from 14Oct to 23Oct and did not know if I should cancel my trip. I did not know what to do and desperately seeked the Lord for guidance. When his doctor confirmed that his condition was due to bad sinusitis and high toxicity in his body due to the drugs and steriods prescribed to treat his infection. David told me that he may be discharged after a couple of days of treatment and observation, I had the peace to continue with my trip.

It has been 5 days since and I am now in North Carolina - thousands of miles away from home and David is still in the hospital. The last sms I received from him yesterday mentioned that he could not be discharged yet..."Need for lungs and toxicity to clear. Seeing lung specialist tomorrow to see if it is due to GVHD. There are some lytic lesions on spine too. Psalm 6 God will answer our prayer for deliverance." I wish I could fly back immediately to just be with him and Josh even if I could ont do anything to help. But he added "No need. Not that serious. Am better. In very good hands here. Focus on your work as you pray in faith. Suffering is part of the christian calling Phillipians 1:29. Josh is very good. Spent almost whole day with your mum yesterday. Stay focused on God's promises and truths. Phillipians 4:8. Take care."

Please pray with us prayers of faith for mercy and deliverance!

God is with us,
Whee Ling

David is discharged from the hostpital today

Praise the Lord!!! Praise Him for His faithfulness and His compassion on those who call upon the Name of Jesus.

David is back home after 5 days at the hospital. Thank God for answering our prayers and thank you for praying. We are really glad to have him with home with us again. Thanks for praying for me too. Without His help and strength, I would not have be able to cope. I have experienced His peace and love. Once again, we have witnessed the Lord's grace and faithfulness. Thank you for being instrumental to His plan to bless and encourage us.

Do continue to pray for complete healing for David. Though his cough is much better now, his phlegm is not completey cleared yet.

"The Lord is near to those who call on Him, to those who call on Him sincerely" Psalm 145:18

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Updates on David's condition

Praise the Lord! Dr William told David the good news that engraftment of donor cells is 100%. Chestscan showed infection is clearing. However, David is still coughing with lots of phlegm. Please continue to pray for full recovery and that David will be discharged from the hospital soon.

Thank God for His grace! And thanks to all for praying!

God bless,
Whee Ling

Hospital admission for IV antibiotics

Dear all,

David's result from his mouth biopsy confirmed GVHD. He will be admitted for 2 to 3 days for Intravenous antibiotics. Covet your prayers for him. Please pray for his immunity to be strengthen to fight the bacteria infection and that the medicine to treat the GVHD be very effective. Pray for protection over mind, body and spirit during his stay at the hospital.

Please also pray for me as I am very stressed during this period with the demands at the workplace. I will be travelling to US (for work) during the 3rd week of Oct and really hope David is well then.

"Lord, please forgive me for having little faith. Please uphold us especially during times when the presure is great and our faith waver when we look at the circumstances instead of Your lovely face. I take comfort in Your word that says: "He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?". I am asking, believing that You would grant David the healing he needs and the grace and strength for us to continue this rough journey. In Jesus name I pray. Amen!" Praise be the Lord who never fails us.

Grateful to have you praying with and for us.
God bless,
Whee Ling

Still coughing

David's cough seems to be getting worse... please intercede for him. Really hope and pray that it is not something serious. Pray against GVHD and any complications in his recovery process.

"Dear Lord Jesus, please have mercy on David and heal him completely, I plead in Jesus' name. Amen."

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Some concerns...

Hi,

Please pray for David to recover from his cough and pray against possible GVHD (Graft Versus Host Disease). He has been coughing for almost a week and it was getting quite bad. Yesterday he had his medical appointment and was recommended to see a dental surgeon for consultation in case of oral GVHD. His liver enzymes were a little raised so need to monitor it more closely. Next appointment will be next week instead of fortnightly because of these concerns.

Last night he was experiencing much pain from the wound caused by the biopsy in his mouth - about 4 stiches. Thank God for Dr Melvin, our dear friend who came to check on him and brought some medical supplies, comfort and prayers as well.

Praise be to the Lord, our God who cares!

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

A year now...

Hi,

It has been a year since David was diagnosed to be suffering from multiple myeloma. As I look back, I could only see God's grace and mercy. Thanks to all your prayers,love and support and the Lord's divine healing touch upon David. Praise the wonderful name of Jesus!

Thanks for praying for David's removal of the CVC. It was done very gently by Dr Hwang and pain was minimal. The wound is healing very well and very soon he can be swimming with Josh. Do continue to pray that as the medication reduces, David's new immunity will have be built up. Pray for 100% successful engraftment of the donor's stem cells and 0% of myeloma cells.

I am encouraged by Josh's this week memory verse that says:
"When I pray, You answer me. You encouraged me by giving me the strength I need." Psalm 138:3

May the joy of the Lord be our strength!

God bless,
Whee Ling

Day 100 - Movie and shopping 

Day 100 - At the playground 

Day100 on 09Sep05(Fri)

Praise the Lord!!! God is so good and His love endures forever!

By God's grace and the prayers of His saints (all of you), our family was able to enjoy the simple things we had so often taken for granted in the past. Guess what we did on David's Day100? We went to the movies, playground and dined at the Cafe Cartel and went shopping at Tampines Mall. :)

Gratefully His,
Whee Ling

Day 98!

Wow! 2 more days and it will be Day 100! - an important milestone after the transplant. Praise the Lord for His goodness and mercy! Praise Him for His faithfulness and gracious work done in our lives, esp David's. Very grateful the past 97 days have passed without complications, rejection or serious infections. His progress has been good and we are trusting God for complete recovery.

Now why is Day 100 so significant? The advice for transplant patient is to avoid crowded places and outside food for at least 100 days. Cautioned to keep oneself from food contamination and bacteria or viral infection because the new immunity system needs to be built up. David's white blood count and HB level are still not quite within the normal range. Well, guess we still have to be careful even after the 100 days. Another reason why this milestone is important is David's CVC line (the silicon tube inserted into his vein) will be removed soon. Though it may not be done exactly on 100th day itself, it will be very soon - then no more dressing and yes he can swim again. :)

Understand from David that because the CVC line was done through the tunneling method (if you recall, he had quite an ordeal during the insertion of the line), the removal requires cutting his flesh instead of just pulling the tube out through the hole (sounds really awful to me). Oh, please do pray that the process of removing the CVC will not be painful and the wound heals well and fast.

May you be blessed by the word of God and His promises!
"Your promise revives me, it comforts me in all my troubles." Psalm 119:50 (Joshua's book)
"My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life." Ps119:50 (NIV)

"This is my comfort in my affliction,For Your word has given me life." Ps119:50 (NKJ)

Rejoicing in Him!
Whee Ling

Still on track

The result of the previous BMT was out: 3% plasma cell in bone marrow. 95% donor still on track cut down neoral to 75bd.

When I received the sms from David last few days ago in my office, I quickly called to ask how he felt about the result. He simply replied "I am ok. My life is in the Lord's hand. I am not worried." Really glad he is so peaceful and calm and trusting in the Lord. I was hoping that the result would indicate complete healing has taken place, 0% and total remission. Naturally I was disappointed but hearing David helped me to just accept that it is the Lord's timing after all...

Nonetheless, still want to give thanks to our merciful Heavenly Father! Among the thanksgiving items, other than the good news that his condition is still on track (improving), David discovered the mild infection in the CVC area and was given antibotics. Thank God it was addressed early and did not result in fever or more serious infection. Thank God today is day 88!

Thank God and Praise the Lord for His word which brings comfort. I was reminded about Psalm 94:19 - Joshua's this week memory verse:
"When doubts filled my mind, Your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer." Psalm 94:19 (version from the "Promises for little hearts" - his birthday present from Dr Hwang).

Be blessed by the other version of Psalm 94:19
"In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul." (NKJ)

"When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul." (NIV)

"When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul." (NASB)

"When I was upset and beside myself, You calmed me down and cheered me up." (The Message)

Peace and Grace be unto you from Jesus our Lord!
God bless,
Whee Ling

SMS message fm David after his checkup yesterday

"BMA just done by Dr William himself. Thx God its over. Min pain. Bearable. He is good and gentle. Encouraging ....Shared with me Psalm 118 v8." Thank God for answering our prayer that the BMA be bearable. Now, let us continue to pray and trust the Lord for the outcome.

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Monday 22Aug is the next BMA

Dear friends, family and all who cares for David,

Coming Monday will be David's next Bone Marrow Aspiration. Please pray that it will be painless if possible but if not that he will find strength in the Lord to withstand the test. Also, please please pray that the result will show 0% myeloma cells in his bone barrow or anywhere in his body as we believe the Lord would heal him completely and eradicate all malignant cells. May all glory and honour be unto Jesus our Lord, our Healer!

Trusting in Him,
Whee Ling

This is where Daddy has his daily walk 

Photos taken by Joshua during his walk with Daddy 

Day 78 after transplant

Hi all,

As we can see from the recent photos posted, our family is fine now after being hit by the recent bout of flu. (BTW, David's Mee Goreng (fried noodle) was yummy). Praise the Lord for his grace and mercy! We are grateful for His healing grace. I do not remember the last time when I had been so sick - fever, running nose, muscle ache...etc and needed 2 rounds of antibotics before I got better. Thank God it wasn't so bad for both David and Josh. They recovered in a couple of days whereas I was feeling sick for almost 2 weeks.

I now really appreciate the blessing of divine healing and realise the importance of staying healthy. At least I need not be taking any more medicine now and to think that David has to continue to take his daily dosage of medicine, I reckon his trial is really not easy. Pray that he will continue to draw strength from the Lord and to take comfort in the Lord's love and blessings upon him.

We found the Lord's blessings in many simple things in life and are grateful for evey one of them, just to name a few:
* Dr William's care and advice, also the books given by him
* The approved medical subsidy, resulting in weekly medical exps not being too much of a burden
* love gifts from friends and family
* friends who faithfully checked our blog though it has not been updated much lately :P
* prayers offered for our family even though we may not be aware of
* David's reflective and intimate moments with the Lord as he goes about his daily morning walks
* time spent as a family watching fireworks in less crowded places such as in the car and some quiet corner of Marina South Park
* David's parenting insights with regards to fathering Josh
* wonderful porridge from David's friend Seng Chor
* delicious chicken soup from cell member Karen
* nutritious vegetable soup from cell member Chye Hee and Aik Kor
(always good to count our blessings)

God is good all the time! May you also count your blessings and be blessed by the sheer fact that God loves you so much!

Grace and Peace from our Lord!
Whee Ling

Day 73 on 13Aug - David cooking Mee Goreng 

Down with flu

I was down with a nasty flu since last Sunday and is still nursing it, was given another 2 days MC yesterday. Josh had mild gastric flu last Wed but thank God recovered quickly this round. The bad news is David seems to have caught the flu bug. Since this morning he vomitted twice already.... Please pray that the Lord shield him from all infections and keep him well.

Thanks & God bless,
Whee Ling

Getting better with each new day

Praise the Lord! David's stem cell engraftment is progressing very well. Of the 2 types of ...(err don't know what?), one of which is already 100% engrafted and the other... at 85% - sorry this is what David told me. Just know it is good and Dr Hwang is pleased with the way things are working out for him. And for that - Praise the Lord our God Almighty!!!

Thanks for your prayers and for "walking alongside us" spiritually.

David has been enjoying his time with Josh even though it could be trying and tiring at times.

Well, it has been a while since I have mentioned about Joshua. Our darling boy is growing very well but at times, shock us with the maturity beyond his age. When we looked at old photos, he would often ask "did Daddy has myeloma cells then?" Somehow, this became a significant milestone in our family. Only God knows the impact it has upon his young tender soul...and I am glad that the all knowing God is also loving and compassionate and I know He will take care of Josh. May we continue to come to Him and surrender all our burdens and concerns for He cares.

God bless,
Whee Ling

Today is Day 52 - already passed the midpoint

I am sure David must be very happy to have passed the midpoint of his 100 days of "confinement" - also implies he can soon have the freedom to eat outside food. Well, the 1st 50 days have not been bad at all. In fact, we are really very very thankful that he did not develop any complications or contracted any infections during this period. Even the deprivation of hawker food (such as char kway tiao, laksa, chicken rice...etc) did not result in "hardship" at all as David was so blessed to have yummy home cooked food (nutritious soup and lemon chicken etc) prepared by our dear cell member Judy and her mum. The cell group even arranged a special meeting at our place last Tue to bless us. They sang a song written by Dr Melvin to encourage us and we were deeply touched. They even brought durians so David could enjoy one of his favourite food. God's blessings sure come in many varied ways - one thing for sure all good and perfect gifts are from above...
May we be more and more aware of every blessing from our Heavenly Father above.

Please also continue to pray for 100% engraftment so that David's bone marrow will enable him to fight the remaining (if any) myeloma cells so that he is in total remission once and for all. Claiming this in Jesus' name! Amen!

Thankfully & prayfully,
Whee Ling