I was seeing patients in the clinic yesterday and noticed a lady on the line with a piece of green and white striped cloth tied around the lower half of her face. She sat with her head bent down a bit as if this would help to hide the reason for which she came to the clinic. As it happened I was the one who got to see Maria. After entering the exam room she began to untie the green and white striped cloth. As she brought the cloth down I could see only slightly soiled gauze. After she removed it I was impressed with the size of this growth extending out from her chin and neck. She could only open her mouth part way because of the tumor making a complete exam inside her mouth difficult.

Maria first noticed the start of this tumor only 4 months ago. Wow. She had been seen at another hospital several times but they reportedly had some problems with their equipment and had rescheduled the visit repeatedly. Thus, she traveled several hours to see if anyone here could help her. Surgery is out of the question due to the size and extent of the tumor. I discussed her case with Dr. Bill McCoy and we decided that although we couldn't confirm a diagnosis quickly, we would do a biopsy and tried some chemotherapy. We are hoping this is a Burkitt's Lymphoma as these generally respond well to chemo.

Pray with me for Maria. We explained that we are not sure the medicine will help. I am sure she is scared. But God is BIG!