I want to share something with those of you who wish to read this post. I am sorry if you feel this "impersonal" but I have so many friends and calling or telling each one individually is just overwhelming at this point.
I have not felt real well for several months. About a month ago I finally went to see a doctor (those who know me know if I went on my own to see a doctor I wasn't feeling well) and we discussed a diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease. That diagnosis was confirmed yesterday by my neurologists. I began immediate treatment to slow the progression of this disease and treat the symptoms. When I was first was told "you have Parkinson's Disease" I was a taken aback briefly. But then decided there was really nothing I can do about it except follow the doctors' directions and do my best to keep a positive attitude. I know God has something really cool planned for this situation and I am actually excited to see what He will do in this so that He will be glorified.
I am confident that God is in control and He will do something with this that will bring Him glory. My prayer through this whole situation has been and continues to be that His will be done and I be able to accept His will. I am determined that this will NOT, in any way, keep me from doing what I love to do. I fully intend on being in the pulpit at every opportunity.
I have NO plans of letting this keep me out of the radio booth either. I plan on being at East Carter on Aug 22, in Cookeville, TN on Aug 28 and at West Carter on Aug 29. Some have said this might be a bit ambitious, but they don't know me. I don't miss games.
I also would like the chance at some point in the future to educate people about Parkinson's. I think many of you, like myself, first thought of a shaking older person when you first read those words (Parkinson's Disease) in this post. And that is a very stereotypical view. But far from an accurate picture of what PD truly is. I am learning more and more about the disease and want others to know more as well in the future.
I have an awesome support system in place that will help me get through this, of that I have no doubt. Parkinson's isn't something you die from, it's just something you die with and I planning on living with it for many years to come if God allows. I don't want your pity or to be treated any differently. I am going to preach every Sunday and go to work every day. I will just have to alter how I do certain things.
"For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us." Romans 8:18
Thanks for your time. God bless you and have a great weekend.
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