Impressions

February 2, 2017

   What does a new year mean for families of cancer patients? It’s unique for each of them. Many factors at play. From the unknown, especially for new patients, to new hope for medical advances in the fight against cancers. What kind of disease and what to make of treatment options? The age and general health of the patient, family support, health of the primary caregiver (usually the spouse, parent or child), stage of disease, insurance, job, kids, etc, etc.?
                Family prayer! So important. Every day. Our parish commitment to praying for each other. Don’t discount God’s miracles. For Him they are routine.
                Is it okay to think of progress in medical research as miraculous? Probably not, but who knows the long chain of events in human history that God planned? Boggles the mind. But here we are looking for cures, finding them, finding treatments leading to remission, longer life with good quality, normal activities and more hope than ever before.
                Yes, a new year, but some are no longer with us. Let’s remember them and the ones who miss them the most. They need our prayers. We’ve heard the slogan “The national sponsor of birthdays.” Simple, strong message. Not to put a damper on it, but we have lost wonderful people over the last 30 years. Parishioners who left legacies in this parish. Some less visible than others, but none the less memorable and lasting.
                Where do we go from here? How about one day at a time? Thankful for God’s infinite mercy and whatever destiny He might want us to follow. Maybe He never gives us more than we can handle. Even cancer? Grace we didn’t even ask for can lead to prayer and the peace that comes from recognizing God’s providence in our lives.
                The Holy Trinity Cancer Support Group is here to help. We meet on the 4^th Thursday of January through October, the 3^rd Thursday of November and then the following January. A handful of parishioners and family welcome you by sharing things that might be helpful. No strings attached. Complete confidentiality. We hope you will feel better when you leave. Maybe just more comfortable with saying ’cancer’ or talking about what scares you, worries you. You know that cancer isn’t the only thing, or maybe not even the most important thing.
                For families taking on the challenges that cancer brings, life changes a lot. Every day is different. You are different. So many ‘maybe’s’. Maybe we can be a better…person? Maybe a better grandpa, grandma, parent, brother, sister…? Good can come out of anything if we have faith in God. He answers in His time. We all know that. But, just a little reminder here.
                So how’s this for a New Year’s resolution? More time with those we love and who love us. February is not too late for making a resolution or renewing the ones already forgotten.
                We are “A people who believe and belong - The kingdom of God is where you are.” Blessings and hugs.
Past Impressions are published on the Cancer Support Group webpage on the Parish website. For contact information see the MINISTRIES page in the bulletin. Jim Ermis, 210-497-8613 or cell 210-616-1129.