Greetings friends and family,
It has been a long time since I sent an update, for which I apologize. It’s been a very busy 6 months and Kathleen’s condition has changed.
In mid-August, she develop a blockage in her intestines, which prevents her from eating. It took a while to determine that it would not relieve itself, by which time Kathleen was quite weak from barely eating. At the same time she was trying to heal from a broken foot from a freak accident. In September she was hospitalized twice for various conditions related to the blockage. As you can imagine, with all of the rounds of chemo and surgeries she’s endured, there are a variety of problems in her body and organs.
After getting out of the hospital, we were able to obtain a special home health care insurance, which allows her to receive feeding from an IV, a daily visit from a nurse, and an in-charge doctor who comes to the house once a week or in case of emergency. This costs a bit of money, but is certainly worth it. We also receive assistance for some household chores, which is a huge blessing.
Kathleen is quite weak and just last week caught pneumonia, which was a real struggle. Fortunately, she has responded to the antibiotics and bounced back a bit. Mark is able to be with her most of the time, but when he must go out our son Andrew, who has halted his university studies for the time being and come back to Japan to help, is able to stay with her. Also, we will be getting some more help to be with Kathleen at times when Mark and Andrew need it.
Because of her weakened condition, she has not been able to receive chemotherapy for several months. We have made the decision to no longer aggressively treat the cancer, but rather live in peace and enjoy the freedom of no more harsh drugs, no more seemingly endless trips to the hospital. We are not dismayed or discouraged, but rather full of peace that our God is in control. These times are never easy for anyone, but we are so blessed to have hope that only comes from Jesus Christ and assurance that this life will be followed by one much better.
Kathleen has been fighting ovarian cancer for more than 5 1/2 years now. I have witnessed literally hundreds of times when she has put aside her extreme sickness and exhaustion to spend time caring for and ministering to someone else. My wife has been a wonderful inspiration to me and many others. Some of the situations we’ve faced have been very difficult, but some have also been intensively rewarding. Your love and support for us through all of these have been remarkable. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you very much.
If you are able to give to help with our medical expenses, that would be appreciated. More importantly, please continue to pray for Kathleen and our family. We are privileged to be serving our Lord in a land of great need and grateful for your support. We love you very much.
Mark
Note: Financial contributions for Kathleen Benton’s medical needs can be sent to Bethel Fellowship International, 1121 244th St. SW #27, Bothell WA 98021. Please designate your contribution for BENTONS Japan. Tax deductible receipts will be issued early next year.Â
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