Jeff Evoy - The Road to Recovery

As many of you know, last year, my dad was diagnosed with Stage II bladder cancer. After receiving chemo treatments, the doctors recommended removal of the bladder and surrounding lymph nodes. Dad’s first surgery was in early January, where he underwent a procedure I never knew was possible – the surgeons converted part of his intestine into a new bladder! Upon returning home, dad faced challenges keeping down food and was readmitted after bouts of vomiting. The main concern was dehydration.

The doctors believed dad was experiencing a bowel obstruction, but hoped it would work itself out without another operation. After three weeks of hoping the problem would work itself out, dad went under a second time, where the doctor’s discovered a blockage that would require removal of nearly a foot and a half of intestine and the removal of his appendix. The recovery process has been slow and taxing, both emotionally and physically for the family. His second stay at the hospital has been 6 weeks, and no definite timeline for his discharge has been established.

I have been humbled by the compassion, prayers, and steadfast love of my mother, who continues to go to the hospital every morning and stay until evening comforting my dad. I have gone up a few weekends to visit, and am in awe of the strength she continues to draw from God, family, and friends. I have heard stories of neighbors, family, and church members providing support to my mom through food and multiple visits to the hospital. Their presence and time spent in solidarity with our family in a hospital setting speaks volumes.

Growing up, I have witnessed my parents giving generously of time and money to the church and the mission field. They are rarely on the receiving end, so I know they would not openly reach out for financial assistance. My mom continuously asks for prayers, which I know have been going up to the Lord in droves. However, after a few inquiries by friends, coworkers, and families, we have been encouraged to open up a space for additional generosity through financial giving. Such support would go to the small daily activities to support my mom, including the commute, parking, and food she buys at the hospital each day. Additionally, giving would also support the full health premiums they are paying while dad remains off work.

Again, thank you for the continued prayers. It’s been a longer road to recovery than planned, but God will continue to strengthen the Evoy family. Thank you for all the support through prayers, visitations, and meals. God bless.