Serah here, just thought I'd help break up Dad's streak of posts with one of my own. Actually, this is more of a prayer request than anything. I know it's probably nothing serious, but I wanted to let everyone know that Dad has had his regular cancer tests in the past month or so. While all of the scans appear normal, the blood test which reveals his CEA level was a bit high. (It was actually about double what it should be in a normal person.)
A blood test for CEA is often used as a tumor marker. Doctors can use CEA results to determine the stage and extent of disease in patients with cancer, and colorectal cancer in particular. It's also used to follow-up with patients after they've been treated, and such is the case with dad. A steadily rising CEA level is occasionally (but not always) the first sign of tumor recurrence. Increased CEA levels can also indicate some non-cancer-related conditions, such as some forms of inflammation, cirrhosis, and peptic ulcer.
So, since the internal body scans and other tests did not indicate that there was any cancer in his body, and there are other conditions that can cause CEA levels to rise, there is probably no need for concern at this time. However, I don't think the best idea is ever to wait until someone has a full-blown illness to begin praying for them.
Although he wouldn't admit it to you, he has been through so much in the past couple of years dealing with this disease, from initially finding out about it down to his last round of chemo. He remained very stoic through it all, but I know it took a toll on him physically and emotionally. Please keep dad in your prayers. The great thing is, you can talk to God just like you'd talk to an old friend, and he will listen.
The letters
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