We are home and getting back to our normal routine after our latest mission trip to Serabu, followed by a checkup visit at Duke Cancer Center. Our Serabu experience was bittersweet. It was the first time in 37 mission years that Cathy had not performed eye surgery. But it was so rewarding to see other Serabu surgeons perform excellent medical/surgical eye care. And our three summer students were outstanding. At the end of our trip, the Sierra Leone Minister of Health and National Eye Program Director thanked and honored Cathy with an Award “for her outstanding dedication and contribution in the prevention and cure of blindness in Sierra Leone” for the last 25 years.
Perhaps bittersweet also describes our Duke experience. Cathy continues to have stable MRIs, but overall, she seems to be in slow decline. Shuffle-steps are now the norm, and they are getting slower, smaller, and less certain. She recently experienced two micro-seizures resulting in several hours of left-side paralysis and confusion. But we love holding hands and her spirit remains as bright as her smile. We are so blessed. Each day is another opportunity to bathe in the glory of God’s love and to place our concerns in His hands.
Thank you for your prayers and support. God bless you. Love, Cathy & Tom
Next update: August 4, 2024
The more in my life I learn that God can’t be 2nd guessed…He has it worked out & our job is to JUST trust & do our part.
Cathy you are in my prayers everyday. I think of you often. God Bless you and Tom.
Always in my heart and prayers .
SURRENDERING YOU
CATHY AND TOM TO OUR LADY’S BLESSINGS AND INTERCESSION FOR YOUR INTENTIONS ❗️❗️♥️♥️❗️❗️
OFFERING MASSES
ROSARIES, HOLY COMMUNIONS HOLY HOURS OF ADORATION
Sending love, prayers and hugs.
Continued blessings to both of you, and certainly a well deserved award!
God’s Blessings!
You two are the definition of the virtue (and gift) of Fortitude. May we all seek to emulate you in our lives.
God bless you all for your stamina, gift of always giving, and your kindness to so many.
Cathy and Tom, you continue to be in my daily prayers. God bless you.
My prayers and love are with you, Cathy and Tom. You are outstanding witnesses Of the Peace of Christ.
Dear Cathy and Tom ,
Our prayers are with both of you ; and especially for God’s grace protecting Cathy’s health during her present difficulties.
Congratulations , Cathy on such an honorable and outstanding award . All of Sierra Leon have so benefitted from your talented dedication to those in need .
Burk and I send our love ,
Elise
Always in my prayers for healing sweet sister!
I would love to call and talk to you. You are missed here but your mission work is so powerful
For those in need . Many blessings and joys to come.
Love you both
Such a blessing that you were able to return to Serabu and minister to God’s people. Your Wedding Anniversary celebration was amazing. Love and prayers continue daily.
Dearest Cathy and Tom,
Belated Congratulations on your 45th Wedding Anniversary! What a beautiful marriage you have – portraying your deep abiding love and devotion for each other and for Christ, your 3rd partner.
Congratulations, also, on receiving your recent Outstanding Dedication and Contribution Award! I’m so proud of you and so thankful to know you both. I hold you in my heart and keep you in my prayers. May God continue to guide you every step of the way on this difficult journey. I love you and miss
you both. Sending my love to you and to all in your precious family.
We are so proud of you,Cathy, and all you have done and are still doing.Congratulations on your outstanding award.We love you,Douglas and Rosie
You both have been in our prayers. So glad you got to go to Sierra Leone and see the fruits of your labor and be loved on and honored. I think of you often on my way to work. Thank you for your mentorship both professionally and in our marriage. We love you both.
Christina and Matt.