[A message from Art: My deepest appreciation for those who have reached out and those who did the Meal Train. I’ve read every comment and believe in every comment. I appreciate you.]
We had an appointment for blood work and a follow up with Dr. C at HOPE this morning. After doing an assessment of Dad and reviewing his blood work results, Dr. C did not recommend continuing with chemo but instead focusing on supportive care and suggested hospice for Dad. Although this was not the news we hoped to hear, we are not giving up or losing hope – we are just pivoting treatment strategies.
A hospice coordinator from HOPE reached out to us after Dad’s appointment, and with her help, we were able to find a hospice agency that we liked. A nurse from the agency will be visiting tomorrow.
While Dad does not like the idea of hospice, he feels this is the best choice to extend his quality of life. He is at peace with the decision and is not anxious because he feels God in the midst of these trials.
Dad is now open to short visits; he may not be able to interact much, but he will listen. If you would like to sing a song, share words of encouragement, read a verse, etc., please reach out to me, Taylor, or Mom to coordinate a time that would work best. Video messages are also welcome and loved. (Dad says, “let them come.”)
Praises:
- I will be taking a leave of absence from work. My manager and director are both supportive of this decision and have been extremely understanding during this time.
- We were able to set up hospice care very quickly.
- Again, grateful for each and every one of you.
Prayers:
- No problems getting the paperwork approved for my leave of absence at work.
- Reduction of pain in Dad’s back and abdomen.
- Continued peace and comfort.
- God’s perfect timing.
[Taylor aside: Title is a reference to this scene from “Friends.”]
Dearest Art, Pam, Janae and Taylor:
Isaiah 40.31 “But those who wait for the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” This is my running verse. It has carried me through short runs as well as the long 26.2. No matter the distance, there will be times of “How am I going to make it through?”. Then I am reminded: I am in the palms of His hands. Moment by moment. May you find the strength of this day, moment by moment, in Him. You are in the palms of our Almighty God. Hugs to you, V
Art, I I’m sorry to hear that you are going through this. If you would like to talk, I’m here for you. If you, Pam or your daughters need anything that I can do, please let me know. Kim and myself will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Tell Taylor the You Tube attachment lighten the news and help understand the all emotions that you and your family are going thru…..
Dear Art and Family,
Just thought you all might enjoy some of the images and music that are uploaded to this Dropbox folder. A variety of classical arrangements, pop, and light-hearted music…even “Taco Mambo” is included! 🎵
Sending good vibes and prayers… 🙏🏻
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/xrcsabr4atyi7deijhnlo/AFCX-st5H3r9tmVNDVcNOkk?rlkey=gepooc9yzolbv2x5ausaljc4v&st=jexlc52u&dl=0
Hi Mr. Narumi!!
Thank you for sharing the songs! Dad really likes Taco Mambo. When I played it for him, he lifted his arms and tapped his foot. I choose to believe that he was trying to raise the roof and dance along. He kept asking for me to play it again, and I think it helped amp him up to take some meds.
Dear Jannae,
Thank you very much for sharing that Taco Mambo was a hit with your dad. Just wanted to share that I included my transciption of Brahms’ “Geistliches Lied” because it has what may very well be one of the most beautiful “amen” sequences in all of classical music (it begins in and around the 3:28 mark). I penned it for a local youth orchestra but the original choral work is ultimately more beautiful… Here’s a link to a recorded performance the way Brahms intended it to be performed: https://youtu.be/MTlzDUOfkAc?si=zfD0-zaeNGX4mIDA (the “amen” sequence begins iin and around the 3:52 mark). With infinite gratitude to your dad and mom for being blessings many times over to the Mighty Spartan Band back in the day. #tacomamboporvida and take good care.
Dear Art and Family,
Just thought you all might enjoy some of the images and music that are uploaded to this Dropbox folder. A variety of classical arrangements, pop, and light-hearted music…even “Taco Mambo” is included! 🎵
Sending good vibes and prayers… 🙏🏻
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/xrcsabr4atyi7deijhnlo/AFCX-st5H3r9tmVNDVcNOkk?rlkey=gepooc9yzolbv2x5ausaljc4v&st=jexlc52u&dl=0
Father God, would you give Art such a deep and abiding peace that it would overflow to those around him. May it be a lasting blessing that he is able to give to those who are caring for him and spending time with him. Through that peace, would you be an anchor and foundation in this season that is undeniable. May your presence be palpable. Thank you that you hear us, that you are near to us, that you love us so much.
Continued prayers for the family as you navigate this new turn in this journey. May you feel God’s presence as you trust in Him.
Proverbs 3:24-26 When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the LORD will be at your side.
I find it hard to believe this is the last chapter for Mr. Art Fong. If anyone will pull off a surprise, it’ll be this young man. Your story continues to bless so many of us as your faith is so amazing. Continued prayers from whom your daughter Jannae (thanks to her Dad) refers to as AACCS’s “worst nightmare.” -Alan
Uncle Art and fam, with heavy hearts, we are praying with you. So so thankful for the faith and peace He has provided you, Uncle Art. Thankful too for your family’s love and care and for the help of hospice.
Heavenly Father, you see Uncle Art and the Fongs. You know them, every burden of their hearts, every cell of their bodies. We pray that you would ease their burdens and provide comfort/peace that is beyond worldly understanding. You are not done, you are still working. Help us to cling to you, trust, and persevere. In Jesus name, Amen.
“Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Martin and I are praying and rooting for every one of you! May our Heavenly Father sustain you and uplift you. Continue to pray that He meets you at where your needs are. We would love to come for a short visit.
So not the news hoped for! Hurting with you. Praying that each and every person that needs to visit will do just that. Praying that fears will be set aside; time will open up; hearts will be moved to come and visit. Praying for rich times with those who come, and encouragement for all.
Even though my heart is heavy hearing this news, I am so grateful to hear that your faith remains strong despite these circumstances. God remains good.
Philippians 4:19-20
19And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Romans 15:13
13Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Deuteronomy 31:8
8“The LORD is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
Thank you for sharing your journey with us. You and your family are always in our prayers. Your faith in God, your joy in the midst of difficulties, seeing God’s goodness no matter your circumstances is such an encouragement for all of us to always cling to our Father. May the Lord hold you and your family in His arms and may you feel His presence every minute. We love you guys.
I’m sorry to hear Art’s condition has escalated to hospice care, but also thankful for hospice, as they are awesome. Praying for God’s peace upon all of you and for the best quality of life. Praying God’s presence can be felt during this difficult time.
Please tell your dad to keep thinking positively. Where there is life, there is always hope. God isn’t done with him yet.
Lord, in your wisdom, you have made each of us with a purpose, allow him to fulfill his. Please take our brother Art into your healing hands and free him from his illness. In Jesus name we pray.