Ready for the Next Surgery: A Pastor’s Recovery from Cancer Surgery

This week, I had my pre-op appointments for what I hope will be my final surgery on December 26. My surgeon has been described as a “rockstar” in his field—and I’m deeply grateful for the skill and excellence God has placed in my medical team.

During one of the consultations, the doctor told me he had read through my case history. He looked at me and said, “You’ve lived an astounding life. A book needs to be written about your story.”
I told him that anything good in my life has been the result of God’s grace, the faithful prayers of the church, and the extraordinary medical teams who have cared for me over the years. Thankfully, the consultation, examination, interview, and bloodwork all went well.

Something important to share: although I was given a full supply of pain medication, I have only needed to take it twice. That, too, is a mercy.

I’ve asked more than once why my recovery has taken so long. The team continues to remind me that the previous procedure was a massive internal surgery. The upcoming one will also require time because the wound must heal from the bottom up and will remain open for a season. So I am boldly asking for your prayers as I prepare for this next step.

This week, many friends have been praying and fasting for a successful surgery. Some even wrote out their prayers and sent them to me. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I know God hears and answers.

Over the last four months, I have been blessed with extraordinary support—from my wife and family, from friends, from our pastoral team and congregation, and from the therapists and nursing staff. There have been some very low days, but overall the healing has been steady and real. The restrictions and limitations have been frustrating at times, but they have also protected the healing process. And I am eager—so eager—to return to a full physical routine.

Thank you for your continued prayers, encouragement, and love.

Peace!

9 thoughts on “Ready for the Next Surgery: A Pastor’s Recovery from Cancer Surgery

  1. Mike Patton's avatar

    I am praying in the name of Jesus for a successful surgery for you and complete healing. God has great plans for you still. He will be with you the entire way. I love you my friend.

    Mike

  2. Missy Meloy's avatar

    Dennis, Bob and I love you and Becky, and continue to pray for a quick and total healing. Blessings and peace to you, Becky and the kids.

  3. Dennis Clanton's avatar

    Dear Bobby and Missy,

    Thank you so much for your thoughtful message and especially for your prayers for my complete recovery. I am confident in God’s goodness and grace, and your support means a great deal to me. I will be sure to pass your warm greetings along to Becky.

    How are y’all doing? I know you’ve experienced a terrible loss, and please know that you are both in my prayers as well.

    I love you both dearly and remain so grateful for the wonderful memories we all made together.

    With much love,

    Dennis and Becky

  4. Dennis Clanton's avatar

    Dear Mike,
    I am so thankful for the prayers that you and Debbie have offered for me. I’m looking forward to getting this surgery behind me and to a complete recovery.

    I hope to see you tomorrow at Woodland.

    Love you much,

    Pastor

  5. Lori Hill's avatar

    Chuck and I are praying for your complete healing! May the presence of the Lord empower you and strengthen you throughout this journey. He is always so faithful. We love you and Becky very much!

  6. Eduardo Baluyot's avatar

    May the good lord God always be with you especially during your surgery. The whole family is praying for you to have successful ones and a quick recovery. We love you very much. Please let us know how we can help. Thinking of you always 

    Eduardo and Mildred. 

  7. Dennis Clanton's avatar

    Thank you so much for your prayers and love. I am so grateful for your friendship and partnership in serving our Lord! Pastor

  8. Dennis Clanton's avatar

    Lori, Thank you so much for your prayers. I am so grateful for the long friendship that our families have enjoyed. Love Love Love y’all

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