Why am I writing this blog?

Euclid (Cleveland), Ohio, United States
Here I share the amazing spiritual journey I began on July 19, 2007. I received the diagnosis of a golf-ball-sized tumor on top of the left parietal lobe (motor functions) of my brain. I had severe symptoms all up and down the right side of my body and had received an MRI scan of my brain. In August 2007, I learned that my diagnosis was a Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM). This is a common form of fast-growing brain cancer with a challenging prognosis. That's the external story about that moment in time. In the spiritual world I found (actually more like it found me) what I came to call the Fact-Based Spirit-Guided Path, and I began an amazing journey. After October of 2008, I lost the use of my right arm, and in early 2009, my cognitive abilities were struggling, and treatment options ended. My wife, Susanne, then began doing most of the blog postings, with my review and input whenever possible. I continued to apply the Fact-Based Spirit-Guided Path as the adventure continued. My soul then flew to the Kingdom of God on July 1, 2009. Thanks for your interest in my journey. Craig

Susanne's Perspective

During this entire journey, my wife, Susanne, had an entirely different kind of experience. Initially she added comments to some of my posts describing her experience of the moments I discussed and offerred perspectives on our relationship. In the latter stage of this journey, she is writing the blog, as I am no longer able to do so. I am truly delighted that she is doing so. Susanne and I work together as marriage educators/relationship coaches and she has written many books on preparing for and strengthening marriages so you can count on her comments to be insightful and poignant.

Saturday, June 13, 2009

Quick Update – June 13, 2009

Craig is still physically with us and spent the afternoon out of bed. After I read him his email messages, many of which moved him to tears, he simply wanted to sit quietly in his wheelchair. At one point, he didn’t want me to touch him or move him and said he was “there”. He seems to be wandering between this world and the next one, zoning in and out and confirmed that he’s still walking up the stairs.

Our friend Nik joined us for a while so I could sleep (last night was a constant series of waking up to help him and finally a breathing treatment from hospice about 6 a.m.). When I got back up, I was able to help Craig express that he’d like Nik to sing to him, which he did, and prayed with him, too. So, peaceful time… Our friend Holly is coming in for the evening and to spend the night, so I’ll have company and help.

Susanne

3 comments:

Judy F. said...

I'm sure there are many, many like myself who have been here somewhat silently and invisibly with you, Craig and Susanne, as you have so generously shared your journey with us through your blog. Craig, I wish you God-speed. Pray for me when you get there. Love, love,love.
Judy

Heidi said...

Just to let you know that my prayers are added to so many others who know you more closely than I do. Susanne and Craig, your courage and generosity in sharing this momentous journey with the rest of the world, through all the pain, difficulty and grief, as well as the joy, is truly inspiring. Your experiences have helped me personally see my journey with a more joyful perspective. Thank you for making the effort in spite of your own challenges. Allah'u'abha - God is indeed glorious!
With love,
Heidi from Mt Barker, South AUstralia xx

Anonymous said...

Craig and Susanne; This is all so moving. I'd like to say that you guys are in my thoughts and prayers, but that just sounds so hollow. But, I guess its the best I can do at this point. May love and peace fill your hearts and souls,as the Lord is upon you.

Love, Clark