One of my close friends of 23 years called today and said “I am not doing well, can you please keep me in your prayers?”

“Of course”, I replied. I couldn’t help myself and asked what was going on since a few months ago he had elevated liver enzymes and was feeling very fatigued with nausea. He was experiencing rectal bleeding along with gas and bloating and his doctor wanted to see him right away to schedule a colonoscopy.

We will all have our turn by the age of fifty to experience this procedure. A colonoscopy is an exam used to detect changes or abnormalities in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube (colonoscope) is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to view the inside of the entire colon.

My friend isn’t looking forward to this since he just turned 49 and jokingly said, “I thought I had one more year to get roto-rootered”! Thank goodness he has a great sense of humor.

In a brief moment of silence, I think we both thought the same thing…could it be…cancer? He broke the silence with, “My doctor said research shows that with early detection of this kind of cancer, the chances of survival are very high. I mentioned that he should wait and see as it could be an ulcer. He will see the doctor in the next few days and they will then schedule him for the procedure.

He told me this is the most anxiety ridden experience since the birth of his children. This time, however, it’s about waiting for the unknown answer of “What is happening to me”?

When I got off the phone, I took a moment to reflect on my own life and how blessed I was to be given another day of good health. I wish the best for my friend and I will know more soon. Give yourself a hug today, I did!

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