For we walk by
faith and not by sight
2 Corinthians
5:7
T H E G U R U
For we walk by
faith and not by sight
2 Corinthians
5:7
T H E G U R U
The first neurosurgeon I visited said I needed a "guru" and that there weren't any in this part of the country. His suggestion was that I seek consults in Phoenix, Little Rock, Pittsburgh, or somewhere in Florida.
The risks involved possible loss of sight in one or both eyes, partial or complete loss of cognition, or even stroke to mention a few. I thanked him for his time and candor as he admitted that he wasn't the surgeon for me.
My 3 cm. meningioma was located on the right optic nerve, the pituitary gland, and the carotid artery. All I could do was leave it in God's capable hands, continuing my search.
The next neurosurgeon on my list was Dr. Paul C. Francel of OU Medical Center, right here in Oklahoma City. Although, according to the first neurosurgeon there was no one in this area capable, I decided to proceed with my plan to consult with Dr. Francel. He had been referred to me by a colleague who had done research on Parkinson's Disease via the internet. She said he was on the cutting edge of neurosurgery and had made quite a name for himself.
On February 16, 2001, Mom, a friend, and I went for my 2:00 p.m. appointment with Dr. Francel. He spent two and a half hours with us. In that time I learned of many of his professional accomplishments, was given detailed answers to my two typed pages of questions, and was assured he could successfully remove my tumor with minimal risk.
As he examined me, he asked about the scar on my neck. Mom spoke up and said, "Well, Linda's a cancer survivor." He looked solemnly at me and asked, "What are you doing here?" I was thrown for a few seconds. Then, I smiled and said, "I'm here by the GRACE of GOD." That's when we began witnessing. My spirit was lifted to know that this man openly gives all the Glory and credit to God.
I left the appointment with feelings of relief and renewed hope. I spent the next couple of days praying to make the right decision. I was contacted on Monday by his office. At that time, I asked if there were any current or former patients who I could contact for references. I was given three names. One of those names was Arnold Allen.
I called Arnold Allen and left a message. My call was returned by Nancy, his wife. Nancy spoke with my mother. I later spoke with Arnold and Nancy, myself. I also met another patient of Dr. Francel's. Finally, I made arrangements to have Dr. Francel perform my surgery.
On March 21, 2001, my meningioma was successfully, 100% removed. The tumor was tightly wrapped around the right optic nerve, severely traumatizing it. As a result, I have no sight in my right eye. However, 2 Corinthians 5:7 has become more meaningful to me as it states...."For we walk by faith and not by sight."
To date, there has been no tumor regrowth. Praise the Lord!
Not only did I find my 'guru,' Dr. Francel, but I found an 'angel' of a friend in Nancy Allen!
REJOICE IN THE LORD ALWAYS
...AGAIN I SAY REJOICE!
Dear Friends and Family,
I am writing this on March 21, 2009 and it marks 8 years since my successful brain surgery by Dr. Francel!
This is a time of reflection, evaluation, praise and thanksgiving for me. I recall, as though it was yesterday, the events leading up to my diagnosis, my search for a surgeon, the surgery, my healing and my recovery. I can't forget any of you...your time, presence, prayers, gifts, words of encouragement, meals, the care you gave me, those who drove "Miz Linda" and "Miz Blanche" here, there and everywhere.
I try each year (as well as each day) to evaluate where I am spiritually; my relationship with the Lord. I see where the "test" He allowed me to endure brought me to the realization of my true purpose in life. Years ago I might have said my purpose was to be a Speech/Language Pathologist, or a mother to Noelle, or a daughter to Blanche and William or a friend/relative to each of you. Well, I feel that's partially correct. However, when I get down to the core of it He revealed to me that my purpose is rather simple--to be a witness for Him, particularly in the area of physical healing. He also gave me intercessory prayer as part of my purpose. God has brought me a long, long way and I see He is using me on a daily basis. I must remind myself to yield to His call.
When I think of how He's brought me over/through this "test" and others, all I can do is give Him praise and thanksgiving. That's the very least I, or any of you can do for Him.
Take time to reflect over my experience and your personal experiences and I guarantee you'll be praising and thanking Him before long!!!
I have a very special request for each of you. Dr. Paul Francel, my neurosurgeon, of whom many of you have heard me speak very highly, is going through some very serious trials at this time. He's being attacked by the enemy, Satan. His professional ethics are being questioned and his practice is at risk. I would like for each of you to please pray for the Lord to intervene and get Dr. Francel and his family through this trial unscathed. The medical profession and his patients are suffering a loss without him in practice. They are a good, Christian family. It may be June or later before things are fully resolved. Thank you in advance for your prayers in this matter. Dr. Francel is very close to my heart!
To each of you, again, thank you seems inadequate for all you've done and for who you are in my life! I love you and thank the Lord for you. You've made more of an impact than you realize.
More About Linda
Linda is a gifted speech therapist working with children and is also a talented pianist. She is active in her church and plays the piano there. Linda is a powerful Christian. She is constantly inspiring me in the faith. She picks me up when I am down. Linda is a treasured friend and a lovely person. I am richly blessed for knowing her.
Linda
recently told me, "Although I lost my physical sight in my right eye, I've
gained something far more important...my spiritual sight! " "Also,
He has revealed to me part of my purpose for my life...to be a witness
for Him...to tell my story to others...to be an encourager and to
intercede in prayer for others, particularly for physical healing."
I love that! It is so beautiful--just like Linda!
Nancy Allen
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Important Announcement Dr. Paul Francel has taken a medical leave of absence from his practice. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. |