Pastor Eric - March 6, 1954 - June 8, 2008

Funeral Service Video

2008-06-24T17:25:00.005-04:00

Below we have posted the funeral service for Pastor Eric. He touched so many people is such a special way and we would like to invite you to leave any thoughts or special memories you have with Pastor below.

Online Videos by Veoh.com

ONE FINAL BLOG

2008-06-15T15:37:00.004-04:00

On Friday we laid Pastor to rest in Dallas. We had a great number of friends and family at the burial service. Mike Livengood did a amazing job at the service. He actually quoted Eric several times and it made it so special. The journey of this past week has been exhausting but we are all determined to push forward and do as God and Eric would have us to do. Thank you for reading and blogging to us and know that we will survive. You each were a blessing to us in difficult time and God used you to minister to us. Keep in touch with me. You can email me at msolsen55@gmail.com . God bless you and know that you are blessed with a gift that God has given you. Always use the gift and never take it for granted. I love you and will always be thankful for each of you. Sherry

Pastor's Service

2008-06-12T07:51:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was a bitter sweet day. Pastors service was all he wanted and more. In fact it was just like him. We were so touched by your kind words, great food, people hugging us and the beautiful flowers and cards. We are all numb and are not sure what will come next but we do know that God will carry us through. Pastor's service was taped and I am not sure when it will go on the web. We love you and thank you for for loving us. I am on my way to Texas today. God bless you. Love Sherry

Arrangements

2008-06-08T14:39:00.003-04:00

The arrangements for Pastor are as follows. Everything will be held at Sunset Chapel 9393 Sunset Dr. Miami Fl. 33173 The wake will take place Tuesday, June 10th from 6-9pm. The funeral service will be held Wednesday, June 11th at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers we have chosen several charities. Donations can be made to Sunset Chapel. If you are in need of hotel information, the best rate is at Best Western in Kendall. The family will be traveling to Texas on Thursday for his interment on Friday at 10:00 at Little Bethel Cemetary in Cedar Hill, Texas and then returning to Miami on Saturday.

Final Amen

2008-06-08T10:01:00.004-04:00

This morning at 1:20 Pastor won his battle. He is spending this Sunday in heaven. I knew in my heart that God would take Eric home on his favorite day of the week. Pastor's transition from this earth to heaven was peaceful. He will be missed by all of us but he is healed today. Thank you for loving us and praying for us through this difficult time in our lives. Our faith is greater today knowing we will see him again. Pastor would say to us today" I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. " 2Timothy 4:7. Keep the faith and pay forward what he has taught you. We must continue the fight for Christ. I will post arrangements later. Love Sherry

Wednesday Update

2008-06-04T11:27:00.002-04:00

Hello friends I am losing track of when I last blogged. Pastor is slowly declining. He is still concerned for others more than himself. He received a new bed today that is an air bed. It should help with his sore back. I am not sure what the outcome will be in the next couple of days but I do know that God will be victorious. Remember all the amazing things that Pastor has taught each of us and now we are to pay it forward. We can be overcomers in all situations because we are God's children. I am praying for you and I am so thankful for all your prayers and comments. You all are the most wonderful family we could ever ask for and know that Pastor and I love each of you. Sherry

Monday's Update

2008-06-02T10:20:00.002-04:00

We missed being with you yesterday. I can promise you we were with you in spirit. We were praying for the service in the mist of all Pastor's struggles. As many of you already know, we have been given only a few more precious moments with Pastor. He is sleeping a great deal. He is not in pain and I thank the Lord for that. Our family is so blessed by your words to us and all of the kind deeds. We have been able to spend every minute with him and not have to worry about other things. Always know we have not given up but we know that what ever direction God chooses to use that Pastor is a winner. His healing will either come here on earth or when he goes to heaven. Remember the sermon Pastor preached not to long ago on I know the plans You have for me. God has plans for Pastor and He also has plans for each of you. Always know we are in the palm of God's hand. Thank you for respecting our time with him. I cannot express how much we love you and are blessed to be or have been your Pastor's. Love Sherry

THURSDSAY'S UPDATE

2008-05-29T23:57:00.002-04:00

Hello my friends. Today has been a little stressful. Pastor had a rough day. He has had to go back on morphine and is not taking any meds by mouth. Hopefully tomorrow he will get to start the process of meds by mouth again and then we will start to look forward to bringing him home. He is resting well and has not been in pain. I thank you for all your prayers and I know that God is going to give us a miracle. You have really blessed us by your blogging. We read the blogs on Pastor's phone at the hospital. He really gets excited to hear from you. It has been great having the kids with me. Rob came in tonight to be with him. The three boys together is crazy fun for all of us. I will keep you up to date. "I know the plans I have for you". Jer. 29:11 God's plan will get us through. I love you all and Pastor loves you. Sherry

Hospital Update

2008-05-28T00:45:00.001-04:00

Dear Friends,

We have come to a new croassroads concerning Pastor Olsen. He was admitted to the hospital yesterday. The doctors along with Pastor and Sherry have called in Hospice care. The cancer has spread and the prognosis is not what we have hoped for and have been praying for. We still believe for a miracle and must continue to stand in the gap for Pastor and Sherry.

Over the next few days, Pastor and Sherry will be spending time either at the hospital or their home with all their children. We would ask that during these days that we, the church family, allow them this time alone and repsect their privacy. I know we all want to see Pastor and Sherry, let them know we love them and care. I encourage you to e-mail them or blog them so they can read your messages when they have an opportunity.

This is a difficult time for all and I would ask that you pray. Prayer is the only thing I know to do that can bring peace,comfort and hope. Let us remain continually at HIS FEET.

Pastor's in the Hospital

2008-05-26T22:58:00.002-04:00

Praise the Lord that Pastor was able to be at church on Sunday and preach God's Word. He was so thrilled that he was able to do it. Pastor's word was God did a miracle for him to be able to preach the message. As many of you know on Thursday of last week Pastor was told that he had a blood clot forming. The doctor started him on blood thinners to disolve this formation. On Monday morning Pastor was very ill. He was taken to South Miami Hospital where they have to determine what the cause for the swelling of his leg is and the pain in his stomach. Pray that he gets out of the hospital soon. We know that God is our source and that He has Pastor in the palm of His hand. We are blessed to have each of you as a part of our lives and we love you. Love Sherry

TODAY IS BETTER!

2008-05-21T16:17:00.002-04:00

As many of you know Pastor has been ill since Sunday. We found out on Monday that all his blood counts were low. On Tuesday he received two units of red blood cells and today he seems stronger. His color is back to normal and he has actually eaten some today. YEA! All things work for the good of those who follow after Christ. I know that God has His hand on Pastor and He will deliver him throught this sickness. Thank you for all of your calls and cards they lift our spirits. We are blessed to have such a wonderful group of family and friends. We love you and keep lifting Pastor up in prayer. Sherry

Missed you Sunday

2008-05-18T14:25:00.002-04:00

Well a lot has happened since our last blog. I have chemo on Tuesday's and it is very hard on my system. I also have radiation Monday through Friday. Up to now it has not made me miss a Sunday, but when I got up this morning and getting ready to take a shower I began to violently vomit. I don't understand it but Sunday's seem to be the worst. I noticed my wife getting upset, and I said "Honey, I can't help it", at which she replied that "she was just mad at the devil"! I knew what she meant. So I am asking everyone to pray next Saturday for Sunday, because I have a message and I believe God wants me to preach it. I love each and everyone of you and ask for your continued prayer. When this journey began we didn't expect it to be a walk in the park. We constantly feel your support and never feel that we are alone. We are looking at having a cat-scan pretty soon to see how we are looking - but we are looking to the Lord. Thank-You for everything! Pastor Olsen

OUR DAUGHTER IS BACK!

2008-05-09T16:58:00.003-04:00

We have had a very busy week. Kristen has moved back home from college. The house has gone through transformations of her return. Although I must admit it has been for the better. Pastor had chemo this week on Tuesday and radiation everyday. He has been very tired from the radiation. He has slept a great deal this week. I am sure that he was still tired from Disney last week. We had a great time with the kids at Disney. Thank you to all of our church ladies who helped with the cost of this trip. It was a blessing to all of us. Papi enjoyed seeing Ally dressed up as a Princess and taking her to the character dinner afterwards. You helped us fulfil something that he wanted to do. Our faith is still high and we are trusting in the Lord for miracle. I tell Pastor everyday that he has to be like Joshua. That we can win with God even when the odds are against us. God will win the battle for us. We love you and know that we are blessed by your comments and prayers. Love Sherry

WE MADE IT TO ORLANDO!

2008-04-28T12:42:00.002-04:00

Friends we are here in Orlando finally. It was quite a trip getting everything settled but we are all settled in. Shane, Lisa, Ally and Chase will be here in a few hours. I am blogging today because we want everyone to be in prayer this evening. We are going to the healing revival that is taking place in Lakeland this evening. Please be in prayer with us this evening between 9:00-11:00. That is the time that those in the prayer line are being prayed for. We believe that God will do a miracle for Eric. We love you and look forward to blogging you on our return. Also for those who have been inquiring tomorrow is Papi's Bibbidi Bobbidi Princess Boutique with Ally. What fun those two will have. Remember to pray tonight and we love all of you. Sherry

Getting Ready for Disney

2008-04-23T16:06:00.002-04:00

Pastor had chemo yesterday. Today he is very tired and weak. He has done better this week with the chemo. Last week the chemo was really hard on him. This chemo's side effect is pain in different areas of your body. Well he has pain anyway so it made the pain intense. This week we did some prechemo things and it made chemo a little better. Pastor and I are believing for a miracle and I know it will happen. We are going to Disney next week with Ally and Chase. Ally is so excited she calls Papi almost everyday to talk about going. Please remember us in your prayers this next week that Pastor will be able to enjoy this trip with our grandchildren. One of the great blessing of this trip is that there is a tremendous healing revival happening in Lakeland at this time so we are planning to make it over there and have Eric prayed for. Pray for us, as it would be great to to come back healed by the Lord. We are so blessed by your blogging. We are amazed that some of you have found us. We love each of you and know that God has a plan! Sherry

Back from the Master's

2008-04-15T19:02:00.002-04:00

What a great trip Sherry and I had to Augusta, Georgia to attend the Master's golf tournament. I will say this though - there is no place like home. The Dream Foundation made the trip possible finding tickets for us, finding a host home where we stayed with a great family. They also paid for our air fare, had a couple of restaurants host us along with many other things. As many of you are aware we had about 4 different interviews where we were in two papers and on two television stations. In some ways they presented the "final amen" or an apparent end that is in sight. I want you to know that Sherry and I are a long way from giving up - we are simply pressing in for the miracle that we believe God is preparing for us. We began a new round of chemo today. This chemo is different than any we have had so far, then we begin radiation on Friday - so continue to pray and hold up the banner of faith. I will say that even in the middle of faith there are times of tears and weakness. For years as a pastor when someone would go through something similiar to what I'm going through I would say, "I understand" when indeed I did not. My faith is strong, but my tears seem to come more frequently. I speak these words to you not trying to say what would be "spiritually correct" as much as being totally transparent. I believe that is the best I can do for you right now. It is because I love each of you as my spiritual children. Indeed I do feel like Paul who kept addressing the Lord concerning his "thorn in the flesh" until the Lord gave him those great words "My grace is sufficient for you". I truly believe God's grace is sufficient for each of us. Thank-you for allowing my ramblings, all I know to say is that I love you more each and every day. Thank-You - Pastor Olsen!!!!!!!!!
P.S. If you have not seen the interviews you can go to google and search "Eric Olsen's Master's Dream" and you should be able to pick-up the spots that ran in Augusta and here in Miami last night at 6pm on channel 6.

Packed for the Master's

2008-04-10T08:18:00.002-04:00

Sherry blogged on Monday and I thought I would update you before we leave tomorrow morning for the Master's Golf Tournament. When Sherry blogged the plan was to start radiation, however when we went to the doctor I asked her to look at a large whelp on my back. Once she did she sent me to the simulator, which is somewhat like a cat-scan. She called us back and said that she is not going to start radiation yet, because there is a large mass that has shown up in the abdomen, along with this malignant mass in my back. They did a full cat-scan yesterday (Wed.) to get a better look - we have not heard the results yet. As of now they are going to start Chemo and Radiation next week. Again I wrestle with what to write - I certainly don't want to simply share the reports that all seem negative. Our faith is strong - if we have given up at all it is that we have given ourselves up to the will of our Father. We have never gone through anything like this before and so what we are trying to do is let you - our family and loved ones - in on everything we are feeling and going through. As from the first we are asking you to hold our arms up in the battle and to continue to pray the Word of God over us. I know what the situation is - but I know what the Word of God says! I appreciate all of you and will try my best to both keep you informed and keep your faith strong at the same time - that is what we are trying to do! We love you - Pastor Olsen

We're Back

2008-04-07T17:37:00.002-04:00

It is Monday and the house is quiet and somewhat normal. All the kids and grandkids left today. We had a great time being together. We laughed and cried some. It was tiring on Eric. He was in a great deal of pain and the pain meds made him sleepy. He did all meals with us and did a few activities with the kids and shopping for a few hours with all the girls. Shaun became the offical wheelchair pusher. Ally our granddaughter was thrilled to spend every morning with Papi. She would come early to our room and get on our bed. She would sit chat away with Papi. It was precious memories for us and I hope for her as well. I could just keep on chatting about the cruise but I have other things to tell you. Today the Dream Foundation came with a package for Eric. He has tickets to the Masters Golf Tournament next weekend. Shaun is meeting us for Saturday and Sunday rounds. Shane is going to be with us on the Saturday round. We went to the radiation onocologist today and she was concerned about Eric's back as well as his hip. Starting tomorrow he will have radiation everyday on his back and hip. This should help with the pain. As of now I am the offical chauffer and Eric hates it. He does not like being a passenger so he has to get better to get the drivers seat back. We missed all of you and look forward to hearing from you. Love you Sherry

Blood is Thicker than Water

2008-03-26T08:06:00.002-04:00

Indeed that is a statement usually said when talking about the commitment of family. Well my family showed up last night!!!!!! I don't know what more to say! Our church and school had a blood drive for me yesterday (Tuesday) and from 2pm til 10pm there were people waiting in line. They had different stations set up to give blood, and plateletes, and something else. Our cafeteria looked like a triage. When we meet each other in the hallway now we just greet each other with "Hey Blood". I have never been so overwhelmed by love as I have been in this journey that I walk - no that we walk, because I am certainly not walking it alone. I love you, I love you, I love you and I so look forward to spending eternity with you all. As many of you know my entire family, all 9 of us, will be going on a cruise next week. Pray that I will not be a bump on the log but really able to enjoy everyone - especially my grand-kids! Upon my return we will begin radiation on my hip area for a couple weeks and then start a new type of chemo where I am on a three week regiment. I will have an infusion on the Monday of the first week and then for two weeks take a pill every day. Then I have a week off and start again. I believe that we have found that the greatest thing that is fighting the cancer is prayer!!!! Almost every day I find out about another group that is praying for me. Many have come to me and expressed how I am an inspiration to them, can I honestly tell you - you are an inspiration to me!!!! Thank-you so much for so much love!!!! Pastor Olsen

Out of the Hospital

2008-03-17T18:51:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone, just got out of the hospital today and am so glad to be home. The last 10 days have been crazy from going to Houston then being home for less than a day and being put into the hospital. I am doing better, when they took my blood early this morning my counts had come up enough for me to come home. I just have to stay home this week and build up my system. So this will give me the opportunity to work from the house. Again I can not express my appreciation enough for all your prayers. Last week (Palm Sunday) I was so anxious not being able to be in church, but when I began to hear of the tremendous service and how great the "Living Lord's Supper" went I was so blessed. While in the hospital I was able to meet with an Orthopedic Surgeon who told me that he did not believe I needed any surgery at this time. That was a great report! The miracle is coming - I am just so excited to know of so many people who are standing with me for it. Thanks again!!! Pastor Olsen

A hospital report

2008-03-14T13:44:00.003-04:00

As many of you already know Eric is in the hospital with pnemonia. His blood counts are at a very critical low level. He has received two units of blood so far. He will be in the hospital for several days. Pray for a quick recovery. His concern is his Easter sermon. I know that God is in control and He will make a way where there seems to be no way. We love you and thank you for your words encouragement. You all have been our strength when we are weak. Keep lifting him up. Love Sherry

Back From Houston

2008-03-13T10:41:00.002-04:00

Well, we got back from Houston last night and truly there is no place like home. I am still recovering from Bronchitis and the Flu and have been blamed for giving half the known world what I had. My sister got it, Kristen got it, Sherry's dad got it, and Nancy, a friend of Sherry's got it. Well, I have made the decision that I'm not going to the doctor any more, they have nothing nice to say. After many tests, we met with our doctor on Wednesday to be informed that the chemo has had no affect on the cancer, and that the cancer has become more aggressive. She has discussed a new regimen of either a clinical trial study or a chemo pill along with an injection. After meeting with us she was going to call my local doctor to get a plan of action. She was amazed that I was not in pain in my hip as the bone where the femur comes into the hip has cracks and the cancer has disintegrated it. They actually made me walk to see if I could. She has recommended that we see our radiation onocologist to begin radiation and also an orthopedic surgeon to put ina pin or a rod. We are still processing all this. The one thing we know is that a miracle is not done until a miracle is needed - and that is right where we are. I am so proud of each of you and the prayers, love and support you have given. Our faith has not wavered, because God has not changed. Continue to pray the Word of God over us as we walk this journey together. I ask that you specially keep Sherry and my kids in prayer - their burden is great. I love you all!!!!! Pastor Eric Olsen

Tuesday our day off from tests

2008-03-11T15:59:00.002-04:00

Today has been a better day for Eric. He has been able to do a few things. The testing yesterday took a hard toll on him. He was exhausted and sick by the end of the day. Praise the Lord that is behind us and tomorrow we get the results. The sad side to all of this is the family that came to spend time with us is now sick. So we are spreading the germs in Texas and plan to leave them here. I am now the Lysol queen. I am spraying everything and everyone with Lysol. I will kill those germs. We do miss you and look forward to seeing you soon. Love Sherry

Houston Report from the ER

2008-03-10T11:42:00.003-04:00

Hey our friends. This has been an interesting trip so far. We were scheduled to start our appointments today but Eric got sick and we started this journey yesterday. Eric got a cold on Friday and by Saturday he was coughing really bad. I called the Doc in Miami and they sent some antibiotics. Well I thought I had caught it in time but that was not the case. Sunday morning at 5:00 am I realized we were in trouble. Eric was having trouble breathing because he was so congested. We went to MD Anderson ER. They at first felt that he had pneumonia or bronchitis. They ran a large amount of test and did a large amount of cultures. The amazing thing that I know was God touched him because his white blood cell count had not gone down any since his last blood draw on Thursday of this last week. That is a miracle. It usually drops everyday for ten days or more. Praise the Lord they said he has bronchitis. He was given super doses of antibiotics and breathing treatments before they let us leave the ER. Today we will get the culture results and we still have all the test to run this afternoon that were on the orginal schedule. Eric is some better this morning but he is really tired. I know that God is taking care of him. We miss all of our friends and family. This has been a great trip in one sense we have been able to see Kristen and Shaun. Seeing the kids is such a blessing and that helps to lift our spirits no matter what our circumstances are. We had a birthday celebration for Eric this weekend and he enjoyed it. God is good and I know that as we go today God will go with us and He is our source. We will not get test results from today until Wednesday. So I will try to let you know on Thursday what all the results are. We love you and thank you for loving us. Sherry

Bags packed again

2008-03-05T09:13:00.003-05:00

Well, Sherry and I will leave Friday for Houston. We will spend the weekend with our family. Sherry and I stay at my sisters in Houston, and this weekend my daughter Kristen is driving down from Dallas with Sherry's parents, Johnny and Naomi. Also my son, Shaun, will fly in from Philadelphia so we are all looking forward to being together. This week has been a different week. I had the harsh Chemo (8 hours) on Monday, then regular Chemo (2 hours) on Tuesday and then today (Wednesday). I also had a M.R.I. yesterday on my bones to take to M.D. Anderson along with different shots for my blood levels, so my body doesn't know what is going on. During the night I have these big grasps for air that panics my wife. I tell her if she wouldn't put the pillow over my head it would probably help (just kidding). We are doing good, believing in God for every day. We have certainly come to understand that it's not the days in your life that matter as much as the life in your days. For that reason starting the Sunday after Easter we are going to start a series on living like you were dying. The focus is not on death, it's on life and maximizing every day that God gives us. God is awesome - I know that more now than ever. I promise to give another update as soon as we return from M.D. Anderson at the end of next week. We love all your comments, it means so much to Sherry and I. Pastor Eric Olsen

Update from Doctor

2008-02-19T10:48:00.002-05:00

I keep getting so many responses as to how many look to the update page that I am wanting to be a little more pro-active as to keeping everyone updated. Sherry and I just got back from the doctor to see how my blood counts were doing and to check out the results from the Cat-Scan last week. Well, as expected the blood counts are dropping, which simply means I get tired and have to watch being around very many people - especially sick ones!! He said that the Cat-Scan showed that the original tumor was doing good - still somewhat dormant. That some of the bone concerns actually looked better, but that some of the Lymph nodes looked larger, but that could be that they are reacting to the Chemo as if they are injured. I have had one of my best weeks since last Thursday with minimal pain and a touch of normalcy. The doctor said if the Lymph-nodes would have actually been growing that I would have been in more pain - not less. I believe God is doing a work!!! So many people praying, qouting scriptures, and believeing with us. I am amazed at the people I am hearing from - some from 20+ years ago! My next set of Chemo is set for March 3,4,5th - so be praying, because then we return to M.D. Anderson. As I preached this past Sunday - a little crumb from His table is enough to do the work!!! We Love You!! Pastor

Second Round of Chemo

2008-02-12T09:06:00.000-05:00

Well, yesterday I started the second round of this kind of chemo. It takes about 8 hours. We arrived about 10:30 and got out about 6:45, and that's about all I remember. I had some back pain in the morning so took some of my night time pain medicine, knowing I was going to be sitting in a vinyl recliner all day. Well, I slept most the day, then I slept all night. Poor Sherry had to sit there that whole time without much conversation from me. The doctor has scheduled a CT Scan for Wed. to just see how things are going. We will also have chemo (about 2 hours) today and tomorrow. I must say that the continued response from so many of you has kept our spirits lifted. Continue to pray for us and keep writing those comments they mean everything. We love all of you so much and realize the family that we have made through the years is tremendous. Thank-you so much and remember that we love you!!!! God is greater than all our afflictions!!! Pastor Eric Olsen

Update From Sherry

2008-02-02T16:48:00.000-05:00

I thought I would give you an update on Eric's progress. He had his chemo for three days last week. This chemo is one of the worst. It has had its effects on him. He has been really tired but the worst has been the pain that it has created due to the decrease in bone marrow. He has kept his spirits up but his physical has been down. We know that God is in control and this to will pass. We are praying that his blood counts come up and for a good week. He will have chemo again on Feb. 11, 12, and 13. Thank you for loving us and most of all for your continued prayers. We really feel the results of your prayers. Love you all, Sherry

Back from M.D. Anderson

2008-01-20T08:44:00.000-05:00

Well we spent a few crazy days in Houston returning home on Thursday. After many tests, from x-rays to catscans, bone scans and blood work we met with Dr. Phan on Wednesday afternoon. We have been informed that I have Stage 4, incurable cancer that has traveled to some locations in the bones as well as the lymph nodes. We begin some radical chemo tomorrow for about 9 weeks and then they may consider radiation on the bone areas. I appreciate you standing with my family at this time. I am so aware that the doctors are educated, but I am even more aware that they do not have the final word on the matter. God's Word tells us in the 107th Psalm to "give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever" then in verse 20 the Psalmist says "He sent forth his word and healed them; he rescued them from the grave". You see God will always have the final word on the matter. As you pray for us, I am asking people to pray the Word of God over us - it will not return void!!! I love you!!! I am so blessed to have the church family that I have and all of you as friends. Pastor Eric Olsen

Hello from Houston

2008-01-14T20:41:00.000-05:00

Well we arrived in Houston Sunday night after about an 1 1/2 hour delay. We spent most of the day at M.D. Anderson hospital waiting for the doctor. We saw 2 assistants and finally the doctor. They are going to run some tests. Had blood work and x-rays done today. Plan to get catscans and bone scans tomorrow. If we are able to do those tomorrow we can see the doctor on Wednesday, if not it will be next Monday as she is going out of town. So I might miss next Sunday, but will hate it. We cannot tell you how much we feel your prayers and appreciate it. I love you all and will share more when we have more news. God Bless you all!!!!!! Pastor

Bags Packed for M.D. Anderson

2008-01-09T11:18:00.001-05:00

As I mentioned in my last Blog we were waiting on M.D. Anderson. Well, through many God sent individuals Sherry and I will leave Sunday after the morning service to fly to Houston, where we will stay with my sister, and start our appointments with the doctors of M.D. Anderson on Monday, January 14th. Some of the doctors are meeting tomorrow to study up on my case. We will plan to be gone for the entire week, so please pray for us. We are glad for the Lord opening these doors, but the greatest door that has been opened is the one of intercession that many have entered for us. Prayer works and the Great Physician is my primary!!!!!!! Thank-you so much for everything!!! Pastor

A Long Time Coming

2008-01-06T09:20:00.000-05:00

I know, I know - it's been a while. There are reasons I have not updated before now. After I finished Radiation on Dec. 7th and had three chemo's on the 10th-12th I had a petscan and catscan done. When we went to meet with the oncologist to review these things on the 12th all seemed rather vague. Well alot has happened in the last week. I have had some back pain and stomach sensitivity. Well on the 31st I decided to go to the E.R. because our deductibles were met and Sherry and I thought that I had a Kidney infection and they could give me an anti-biotic. We were shocked when the doctor came in an said that my cancer had moved to my #12 lumbar and my pelvis with some other suspicious areas. Since then we have met with three doctors that have all verified the findings. Since then God has put people in our path with connections with M.D. Anderson in Houston, so we are planning a trip there fairly soon. The doctors have told us that it appears that the previous chemo has done little, for the only area that is better is exactly where they did the radiation. What is causing the current pain is some lymph nodes that are infected and growing. As many experience with cancer, there are new challenges at every turn. I was amazed when our Radiation Oncologist told us that this would be with me from now on. I thought, I'm glad that's not God's word on the matter. I think I will trust the Lord who declares that "He" is the Lord that Heals us!!!!! Thank-you for your prayers and as things begin to move in this new area I will update much more often. THANKS - I cannot tell you how much I love all of you!!!! Pastor

Coming Down the Home Stretch

2007-12-04T08:40:00.000-05:00

Well, this is my last week for radiation, and I met with my doctor yesterday. I always get my bloodwork before my chemo and my hemoglobin is down which makes me weak. They said I needed a shot but had to get approval from insurance and something else so may not get it till next week - hey what about now? Anyway, my doctor has set me up with three, not one, heavy doses of chemo for next Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday preparing me for the pet-scan on the 17th and then the possible surgery to follow - I will meet with my onocologist surgeon for that. I know that the next couple of weeks I might be tired, but I have been so blessed during this process. Being able to preach on Sunday's has been my greatest medicine. Being with my church family, hearing from so many friends that read this blog - I have never felt so loved! Indeed this is a Merry Christmas! Please understand that if you respond on the blog I have no way of responding to you - but if you e-mail me at egolsen@sunsetchapel.com I can. Thank-you and keep praying - it works - I promise! Pastor

Finally an Update

2007-11-27T08:24:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone,
I'm sorry I haven't posted an update recently. The truth is I was too focused on the Thanksgiving turkey. It was so important to me to have an appetite for Thanksgiving - and boy did I! I went 4 days without radiation and I had a good week last week. I have my weekly chemo treatment today and should have about 8 more radiation treatments. With winding down with the radiation the focus is to have another pet-scan and CT scan in another week, then that will determine surgery or whatever. I truly feel so blessed to have the support I have from my family, my church and friends from years gone by. It is in times like this that your thanksgiving becomes even purer. I couldn't complain if I wanted to - if I tried only thanks would come out. I love you all and will keep you informed. Thanks - no really - THANKS! Pastor

Another Week

2007-11-15T08:57:00.000-05:00

This week has certainly been made of highs and lows. Sunday was a very special time. It was the first time the church saw me without my hair. When I approached the platform I was overwhelmed by the standing ovation. The love and support has been - well, words can't express it. Monday I had two Chemo treatments, then I also have radiation every day except Saturday and Sunday. I am in the office today, but feel so weak. I am thankful to the Lord that I haven't had any radical side-effects, but when you want to go full speed and can't it is just difficult. I don't know how I could have done this without the staff I have filling in the gaps and a church that loves me so unconditionally. It brings me to tears even now thinking of the love of Christ lived through the lives of real people. Have a great day today and let us look at Thanksgiving being truly thankful for all His blessings. I love you!!!!!!! Pastor Olsen

2007-11-07T11:45:00.000-05:00

Well, here is the picture of what a bald preacher looks like. I had Sherry stand in with me to give the picture a little class. Bald is beautiful. Love you all! Pastor

Good News, Bald News

2007-11-06T11:33:00.000-05:00

Well, as mentioned in my last blog my white blood counts were critically low, so we went to the doctor this morning to run new blood work after getting shots of nuprogen (?) every day for the last 5 days. The doctor looked at the report and said, "Wow, that nuprogen really works". The normal range is 5-10 and last week I was at 1.7, but this week it shot up to 18.5, so now I feel like I can fight off anything. Ofcourse when the doctor declared how the nuprogen had worked I wanted to declare that "Prayer really works". That's the good news, yesterday when I showered I realized amounts of hair in my hands, then I looked at the drain and realized it was clogged with hair, so it looks like baldness is around the corner. But acording to George Valdovinos in the church, bald is beautiful. I just hink that everyone in the church should shave their heads to show solidarity. Then we would also know who the visitors were, ofcourse they would think they had walked into a cult. God is good - all the time. Just wanted to update you and tell you that I love you. If you are at Sunset Chapel on Sunday you may just see one more beautiful bald man. Love each of you - Pastor

It's Friday and I'm ready for Sunday

2007-11-02T11:32:00.000-04:00

This has been a pretty good week. Last Sunday was just awesome - the service was great and I felt pretty good. This week I have gone to radiation every day. Yesterday I went for my weekly appointment with my oncologist and was surprised that my white blood count had bottomed out, so I have to watch being around people - specially sick ones. Mt immune system is very weak, a matter of fact I have to go in for shots every day, including Saturday and Sunday, for the next 5 days. But I feel pretty good and am looking forward to Sunday. I have found some true inner strength. When I have been weak or in pain still praising the Lord - I refuse to let this take away my praise. I am constantly told of people that are praying for me - can I tell you - "Prayer Works" - I feel it. Thank-you again for your cards, prayer, and unconditional love!!!
Your Pastor

Another Update

2007-10-26T10:17:00.000-04:00

I apologize for not updating sooner but the last week or so has been rather hectic. I returned from Dallas and my brother-in-laws funeral last Thursday and had my first harsh Chemo on that Friday. I then had two more treatments on Monday and Tuesday. I was just exhausted the first of the week and when we met with my doctor yesterday (Thursday) he told me that he expected it to knock me down, but in doing so it was also knocking the cancer down. I started radiation this week and it has seemed to have no affect. It is now Friday and I am feeling better than I have for over a week. I can not tell you how your prayers and love have overwhelmed me and I can truly say that Sherry and I feel them. I will be preaching on Sunday and I feel so passionate about the message I am preaching, "The Battle For Our Faith". Thank-You and I love you! Pastor Olsen

A New Week

2007-10-15T20:29:00.000-04:00

It is Monday, October 15th and so much has happened recently. Last week Sherry and I went to South Carolina to see our grandson, Chase Matthew, to be born. On Saturday morning before we headed back we were called and told that Sherry's brother, Jason, 32 had died in a car accident, so we are now headed to Dallas for the funeral. Pray for the family. While in Dallas I was called from one of my doctors and informed that the Tumor Board met with my case and decided to change my chemo. It seems that after a second look at the pathological report my cancer is a little different. So it is a little more extensive, but they feel that this new chemo will attack it. I also went today to get my body marked to begin radiation. So much happening, but our faith is in God. The old song declares that when all around is sinking sand on Christ the solid rock I stand, and indeed we do!!!! Thanks - Eric

First Week of Chemo

2007-10-05T11:17:00.000-04:00

I just got back from the doctor after my first week of Chemo to get a new bag of chemo and have my first assessment. The blood work came back great - a little low on platelets which explains being tired a little - but everything looks great. I have really had no side effects of which I really give the Lord all the praise. While waiting for my chemo to get to the doctor from Baptist Hospital a young man recognized me as he had been to a wedding here a couple of years ago. He told me that he and his wife had talked about that ceremony a couple of times. So I gave him my card and told him to come join us. I believe every day God has those God appointments for us. God never stops amazing me. I am looking for every opportunity to reach someone for him. Have a great day - and have I told you lately how much I love and appreciate you??? Well I do!!! Pastor Olsen

Update on Condition

2007-10-02T13:54:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to update everyone on how things are going! First of all let me thank everyone for the cards, e-mails, just everything. As I announced on Sunday, last week (9-24) my oncologist gave me the results from all the tests, including the full body scan (pet scan) and said that the cancer is no where else in my body. That was great news! So Friday I went in and they started my chemotherapy. It is a pump that I wear that sends the chemo directly into my chest. I go every week to get a new bag of medicine. So if you see something under my shirt that looks like it is protruding, besides my stomach, it is this pump. Four days into the chemo I am feeling pretty good although today I had a little buzz. Again I will post new updates to keep you informed. Thanks for caring and loving!!!!!!! Pastor Olsen