Shortly after my 30th high school reunion in 2016, my friend Doug Lemon was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer. Never a smoker, he has had experimental treatments including medications and surgeries over the years at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA).

You can read all about Doug's enlightening and inspiring journey in his book, Beautiful Catastrophe, available at Amazon. Although, Doug has been married to Andrea, one of my best friends from childhood for 29 years, I really enjoyed reading his story of faith and healing. Doug, Andrea and their four children have persevered during the past three years with the help of their church family, friends and the personalized care and attention they have received from CTCA.

In the past couple of months, Doug's cancer has progressed and he completed 10 radiation treatments on his brain. He is now receiving radiation on his back as he waits for his platelet count to reach 100. Doug has discontinued use of a particular blood thinner believed to be the cause of his lowered platelet count. When it reaches 100, he can start chemotherapy. 

During this current phase of treatment, Doug and Andrea have been staying in a hotel for more than 27 days. They haven't seen their youngest son, Clark, or dog, Marshall, in 27 days. Doug, a licensed psychologist, has not been able to work for at least 27 days to support his family.

While we have all said prayers and sent care packages of food and flowers, it's time to come together and support the family in another meaningful way that can reduce just one of their major sources of stress.

All funds donated will contribute to the family's expenses which include medications, treatments, food, hotel and transportation. Any amount you can spare, even just a $5 contribution will be greatly appreciated.

In the meantime, please continue to keep Doug and his family in your prayers. Cards may be sent to:

Doug Lemon
CTCA
600 Celebrate Life Pkwy
Newnan, GA 30265

Please share so we can make a difference!

For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again. (ESV)
2 Corinthians 1:8-10