The Frog

It may seem odd, the title, but believe me...it is a constant reminder of my recent past.  I had my regular quarterly MRI today along with blood-work in preparation for tomorrow's oncology visit.  The MRI itself is no big thing but it shuttles me back to a special MRI I had 2 years back now.  One that allowed the neurosurgeons to properly determine the borders of my tumor.  This was called an FMRI or Functional MRI with tensor diffusion imaging.  Look it up on Google...it is quite an interesting invention.  It is essentially a MRI that involves activities for the patient to do while inside the tube.  During the activities, the scanner is picking up which parts of the brain are used to complete the task.  Thus, the 'functional' area for that action.

As part of  my FMRI experience, I was read a story.  I was told that part of the story I will understand, and part of the story I will not.  I did not know what this could mean at the time so I listened...I listened actively and intently.  The story was pleasant and simple.  it was bout a frog who wanted to explore over the hill.  Along the way he encounters a garden shed and goes in.  Frightened by a small boy who runs into the shed, the frog jumps into a nearby flower pot.  Just then, the narrator's voice went to total garble.  The garble ended and the story was never finished.  On to the next task.  WAIT!!!  I want to know what happened to the FROG!!!!

While I may never know the true destiny of the frog, it does give me an interesting insight.  I am here, I am alive, I am healthy and have now moved on to the monitoring phase of my cancer encounter.  I praise the Lord that he has allowed me this adventure.  To have endured, experienced, and see life through a totally different set of eyes and heart.

I have to thank you all who have prayed (and some continue) as it is your continued petition to the Lord that keeps me engaged in the pursuit of the frog's story.

Peace, Love & Prayers,

-Leif