Blogs from Jupiter

Dad knows that he has stage 4 lung cancer. And surprisingly, he was not shocked after hearing the news. He was calm and composed, asking the doctors questions that my mom and myself would not dare ask. My dad is one tough lawyer, and even in sickness, you could see his toughness and courage. He may be physically frail right now, but he’s face is shining and glowing as if he was never sick. He’s scheduled for chemo anytime this week. But we are worried as his body may not be ready. The wrong medicines really took a big toll on his health. Dad himself is not in favor of going through chemo.

He is not worried with death, but more worried when the cancer metastesize, that stage when the patient feels the ultimate and worst kind of pain. Another option is pain management.

Last Sunday, I went to San Miguel Church in Malacañang to have my new car blessed. I also attended mass and offered my prayers for my dad’s healing and recovery. I asked for St. Michael’s help and intercession. During communion, the choir sang I’ll Walk With God, my dad’s favorite song. And memories of my childhood with my dad started pouring in. Dad is a big fan of the great tenor and opera singer Mario Lanza, and while Lanza’s record was playing in the stereo, he would sing and even try to reach Lanza’s high notes. It gave me the shivers as it felt like our house was going to collapse! But there were moments that my dad would sing Lanza’s songs very well, and it was one pleasant and mesmerizing experience especially when the tunes and notes are perfect.

One time, I saw him singing I’ll Walk With God with much gusto. And it was one great sight to see. He was singing in front of our altar, in a state of praise and worship, serenading and offering the song to God…   

I’ll walk with God
From this day on
His helping hand I’ll lean upon
This is my prayer my humble plea
May the Lord be ever with me

And He’ll hear the words that I say
His hand will guide my throne and rod
And I’ll never walk alone
While I walk with God

While the choir was singing I’ll Walk WIth God, I remember my childhood past when my dad was singing the song as well. And I cried.

My sick Dad is my very source of strength.