Beloved in Christ,
It has been almost two weeks since I have written to you with an update on Lauren Watkins. As you have been aware, the doctor’s had decided to allow the antibiotics prescribed to take affect on Lauren, to see what difference these medications might have on the troubled areas behind her ear. This waiting for the Watkin’s family has been very trying, as I know that it has been for the entire Saint Margaret’s family. It was everyone’s expectation that today’s testing would yield conclusive results, with our ultimate hope being that Lauren was cancer free and that the detected mass was only an infection.
Unfortunately, today’s test did not yield any conclusive results, which means that you and I, along with the Watkin’s family, will need to continue to wait faithfully as Lauren goes through additional testing next week.
The good news is that the infected area has responded to antibiotics, and the infection has decreased significantly. The two problem spots, identified weeks ago, are unchanged. Therefore, Lauren will undergo another PET scan next week, with the hope that this will bring further clarity to the situation. As I receive more information from Mandy and Michael, I will pass along everything to you so that you can continue to lift up Lauren, Addy, Leah Kate, Mandy and Michael in your prayers during this trying time.
Waiting is a difficult endeavor. The answers to our questions often never seem to come quick enough for us, but in this instance we will not wait idly by. We will keep the faith, love this family, and be relentless in prayer. I call on the entire Saint Margaret’s community to increase your prayers; for the Watkin’s family, and for all among us who are in need.
Yesterday, Psalm 37 was the appointed psalter for our Morning Prayer. While praying for Lauren, I found great comfort when I read the seventh verse, “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.” Beloved, we will need to be still for a bit longer. We will need to put even more of our trust in the Lord. He is with us, and we will lay all of our burdens at His feet. May He continue to be our strength in this time of need.
“Come unto me, all ye that travail and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
Yours in Christ,
Fr. Todd+
