July 18, 2008

Hey Everyone

I just wanted to write a quick note.  Gregg’s here in the hospital room with me.  I’ve been here since Wednesday.

My white blood count has dropped real low so they have me in isolation with all the precautions that go with it.  I just want you to know that since I cannot have any visitors, you are all in my heart and prayers.  I love you all very much.

The drop in white blood cells is one of the severe side effects of the Interferon treatment.  I will be in the hospital for several more days and then I will be able to go home.  Please don’t send any flowers, I would love them but can’t have them around since my immune system is compromised at this time.

If you can, remember to smile, open a door or do something kind for someone today. You never know where people are coming from or going to. Knowing that there are kind people out there helps.  And you are all very kind people.

Blissings,
Matt

PS.  I love you all very much and please no visitors or flowers at this time.

July 4, 2008

Dear Friends and Family,

Well this is my first update and I’m not sure what to write.  My ego wants me to fulfill its teacher identity, then there's the Spiritual Identity. Martyr, victim and sufferer keep popping up too. But the truth is I'm not resisting or compelled by any or all of them. I feel too much like crap to let them run me.

This will be short; my energy seems to diminish quickly.

The cards and messages on the “Friends of Matt” site have been overwhelming and are exactly what is needed, so, thanks so much.

I began my treatment on June 14^th.  It involves a weekly regimen of drugs whose side effects are pretty debilitating.  Each day Gregg helps get me from the bed to the sofa.  He then gets my meals and is keeping good records of any changes in health.  This is no cake walk.  I can sit up on my own for maybe 15 minutes, and then I can no longer hold my body up. I hate to admit it, but a walker may be needed soon. YIKES!!

For those of you who have offered to make meals and help keep the house in some order, Gregg may be calling you soon. He is doing it all and working 2 jobs. He is remarkable -- loving, tender, nurturing and always there.

Many of you pass through my consciousness each day. I read your messages, think of so many of you, and all the irreversible miracles and new relationships that have occurred for thousands and thousands of us since 1982 when I first started yakin about the mission, purpose and ministry. And through the years, all of you have shown up, for distinct, unique and precise purposes; what a miracle.
 
I'm thinking of you.  God has me in the palm of Her hands. When you pray for me, please visualize me as physically pain free; I can use some help in that area. This hurts. . .

Blissings,
Matt

Hello All,

Thanks for all of your support.

Matt began his year long treatment on June 14th. 

His spirits are up eventhough he's been quite sick.  Very tired, extremly nauseass and has a lot of physicial pain. 

Matt's appetite is good and he sleeps a lot.  He's already sick of TV and it's only been two weeks.

Thanks for all of your kind words and contributions.

Many blessings,
Gregg