The past week has been a whirlwind. I know many other people have been in this place. I know many more will be entering it as well. One moment you’re still chewing on it, the next moment you’ve completely broken down. There there are all the questions. I have found, in our 10 days journey (thus far) with Eli, that those start with “What if…” In the midst of it all you try to be optimistic; to be strong in the faith; to do all the things you know you ought to be doing: praying; seeking; fasting; connecting with God; etc.
But I have to admit in all of it, I never dreamed those words would be uttered or spoken to me: “Your son has cancer.” No matter who you are, where your’re from, or where in life you may find yourself – those are words you never prepare yourself for. How can you? Who would even factor it into the equation. For some, it may be a heart condition, or a rare illness, or an accident. It’s not always cancer. Angela and I are still in the process of accepting it, understanding it, and adapting to what comes with it. Decisions. Treatment. Options. More things to pray over, consider, and factor in than anyone can possibly imagine. First and foremost, of course, is Eli. Any parent would desire the best treatment available; the best facility; and the best medical staff. No matter the cost, no matter the location. Yet, real decisions have to be made and the full realm of each possibility is faced in reality. There is no “trial” lab when life is being lived out in each moment, and with each decision. May God truly direct our paths and may we consistently allow Him to! – is our prayer.
Instead of being lengthly, I just want to say it is life changing. In what ways? I don’t really know the full impact yet – we are still “in” the induction (as they call it). We would only ask for your prayers. And in advance, I will say we certainly appreciate them. Our hope is in Christ alone, knowing that all things are in His hands and heart. Thanks for reading my rambling. I hope in time I will make more sense.
Prayerfully, in Him,
Porter
PastorPG's Blog 
Byrn and I are praying for you, and sending so much love your way. We hope to talk with you soon. Until then.
(Jo: 91o-977-1018 and Byron 252-864-4512) Call anytime, for anything!
“Your son has cancer” I HATE those words & I HATE cancer. We’ve been there done that and want your to know we are here for you guys. Eli and the whole Graves family are in my thoughts and prayers. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Phil 4:13
We are hanging on every word, every post, every comment that is made and want you to know that we are in CONSTANT prayer for you ALL! Please know that! We love you all and have lots of people praying for you! You, Angela and that precious Eli are an inspiration to us all! We will call you this week to see what we can do for you on the home front…GOD BLESS YOU ALL! Love, Jeff, Cindy and our whole family!
Thanks for the “Ramblin”. I understand that term exactly and am sure that I would be doing the same thing. Just wanted to let you all know that I am thinking of you all real often and praying real often for all of you (both entire families (Graves & Burns). We all love you dearly and will do anything we can to help you out during this time (especially w/prayer). Take care of yourself as well as you can.
Love all of you.
Ms. Belva
I cannot even imagine what you must be going threw. I am praying for you brother. I could quote a scripture, But I am not going to. I just want to let you know that I am thinking and praying for you.
Pastor Porter, thank you for sharing your feelings with us. It is hard to comprehend what you and Angela are going through and also the grandparents. You are all very special to us and we pray alot for you all and especially Eli. You are all missed and loved. Please know we are all here for you and will do anything we possibly can for you. But in the meantime all we can do is pray and carry on for you at the church. We are a phone call away. Sending love and prayers.
Nancy and Steve
Thanks for sharing your “rambling”. I love you Mr. Porter and Mrs.Angelea. My heart go’s out to you more than you will ever know. Hang in there with gods help it will get better…
We love you Porter and Angelea. Our hearts go out to you more than you will ever know. God is in control and has Eli and all of you in his hand. Our prayers are with you daily asking for God to comfort and strengthen you two. May the Holy Spirit guide and direct you through this unknown journey. We love you.
In Christ,
The Raycroft Family
Thanks for sharing your “rambling”. Love you & am praying for Eli and everyone connected to him.