In June Cal was diagnosed with cancer of the prostate, which had spread to his bones. His oncologist put him on a hormone therapy for four weeks. During that time Cal and Annie made significant dietary and lifestyle changes, which included cutting back at work. The treatment seemed to work well, bringing his PSA down from the 180's to 17 (normal is between 4-6). So, in July, the doctor gave him a four month shot with the addition of a drug to strengthen his bones.

However, the September check-up showed a different trend and the oncologist asked for a second set of blood work. It appears that the cancer responded to the regimen well at first. But cells mutated and those resistant to the treatment were now staging a growth spurt. The PSA count climbed to the 50's, and, by the second reading was already 89. So the doctor has recommended the more drastic step of chemotherapy to combat the mushrooming threat. This week (Oct. 10) Cal and Annie will be seeking a second opinion, but must chose a course immediately.

During this time Cal and Annie have had tremendous support from family, their church, friends, his doctor, and the World Relief staff. Cal and Annie have read through much of the scriptures dealing with healing and have been very encouraged. He has had prayer by laying on of hands, by anointing with oil, by individual pastors, by congregations, and by many concerned brothers and sisters in Christ. It has been a incredulous experience to be prayed for by so many caring people.

We have been very humbled by this outpouring of concern and do not take it lightly. At this point we need to make a decision that has serious consequences. We ask for your prayers as we seek guidance for the immediate next step of treatment. And we welcome communication with us through this blog.

In Christ,
Cal and Annie Uomoto