Great Friends

My new devotional book, sent to me by a parishioner who is also sick, calls Jesus the Great Friend. Now ordinarily I don’t like throwing around capital letters without a proper noun, but for some reason they struck me as appropriate. Friends have been critical to my treatment: several people have sent me multiple cards, a few continue to bake us fresh bread or bring food, a few others have lit a candle for me and mentioned me in daily prayers, a Panera gift card has kept me in bagels and coffee and this week I’ll actually have folks drive me to treatment. So it’s interesting to think of Jesus, not just as a historical figure, not just as a living savior, but as a comforting companion critical to treatment. And because this friend is Jesus, the book suggests he is a perfect friend.

A friend is ready to help, anticipating every want, hand outstretched to help and encourage, or to ward off danger, voice of tenderness to soothe tired nerves and speak peace to restlessness and fear. (God Calling)

Because two of my friends who have been both tender and encouraging really wanted to see me in the panda socks, I wore them Monday to rave reviews by the techs. They also like the Super Fudge Chunk chocolate ice cream I made them last week.



For those looking for a medical update:
The fluid removed last week is being cultured but the doctor didn’t think it looked infected. It released some of the pressure but it didn’t relieve the pain. So I was sent to a lymphedema doctor today. He says I have swelling in my chest wall and left arm (no kidding!) which could be problematic, causing fibrosis, and "could be" contributing to the pain. So next week, after my skin clears up enough, I’ll start a series (every day at the same time–-sound familiar?) of treatments where I receive physical therapy and then my arm will be wrapped up. This continues for a few weeks until the swelling is at acceptable levels and can be treated with a special sleeve. I’ll have to ask, but I doubt "compression garments" come in lavender chiffon.