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2001 Soap Box Archives My Health I suppose that a lot of you folks have heard about my recent operation for prostate cancer. I went into Vanderbilt Hospital on November 20th and Dr. Joseph Smith performed the operation. After a two day stay I went back home, where i am now recuperating. Although there are still some lab reports which can take up to a couple of months to get back, the preliminary pathology is excellent and Dr. Smith feels that the cancer was contained totally in the prostate and is one hundred percent cured. Although I can’t say that it was a pleasant experience, I have to say that it has not been nearly as bad as I had it pictured. I had known about the surgery for several months, in fact, had the date scheduled and as the time drew near I grew apprehensive to say the least. There’s just something about getting up before daylight and going into a hospital, putting on a gown, being fitted with an IV and talking to nurses and doctors, knowing that soon you’re going to be put to sleep, that is a bit unnerving. The word cancer is one of the most feared in the English language and knowing that you’ve got one inside you can be a real source of worry and anxiety. I knew I couldn’t handle it so I turned it over to God. I had heard about peace which passeth all understanding, and I am thankful to say that I experienced it. God went right into the operating room with me. Hazel stayed with me as long as she could and when she finally had to leave and they wheeled me into the operating room I was calm and in a good mood. Dr. Smith said, ”Are you ready to get this done?”, to which I replied, ”Let’s get it over with”, and the next thing I remember they were wheeling me to my room and in my semi-awake state I realized that it was all over. I was so glad to get back to my darling Hazel, I’m just not much good without her and seeing her face was a wonderful experience. My son, Charlie and his wife, Lora were a welcome sight as were several of my extended family of people who work with me. I was surrounded by love and friendship. I’ve had very little pain and got off the pain medication after a couple of days. Dr. Smith says that I’m not to pick up anything which weighs over ten pounds for six weeks and since some of my guitars weigh more than that I have to be kind of careful. And I’m not supposed to drive for a few weeks but I can live with that. I have said it before and I’ll say it again. As tough as life gets sometimes for the people who are Christians, I can’t imagine going through life without God and Jesus Christ. There is no other source of comfort in times of trouble and I praise God for giving me peace and healing me,f or giving me a wonderful wife and son and friends who truly care about me. He is so good. I would like to say a word to you men, especially those of you who are over fifty. Be sure and have a complete physical once a year and be sure to have your PSA levels checked, it can be done in a blood test and is a barometer for prostate cancer. Early detection and treatment can mean the difference between the cancer spreading to other parts of the body, even life and death. A trip to the doctor once a year can literally save your life. I want to thank you folks for all the prayers and get well cards and wishes. I love you all and God willing look forward to many more years of playing my music for you. Thanks
and God Bless,
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