After several days of medical procedures and tests we were told last Thursday (October 20th) by my Gastroenterologist that the internal blockage that has caused recent discomfort is the result of the bile duct being squeezed shut because of a tumor pressing against it. The tumor is right next to my liver. Because of its location it cannot be removed—too many other things in the area.
On Friday I went into surgery where a stent was inserted into the bile duct to allow it to drain so poisonous bile will not be backed up in my system. They also took a biopsy of the tumor and the liver to see if they have been “communicating.”
I was in the hospital overnight and most of Saturday. This past Tuesday, Andrea and I met with my doctor where we learned the tumor is malignant. The doctors could not give us any information about a prognosis at the time.
This has been a sudden shock, since I have been dealing with a neck issue. The neck discomfort was resolved a few weeks ago and then pain in my stomach increased.
We are processing the abrupt change in our lives because of the inoperable aspect of the problem and the fact that all our plans that included me will possibly be canceled.
Many of you have been so loyal to us in your reading and responding to these blogs that we thought the least I could do was to be honest with you about this unscheduled confronting of my own death, since this is a big part of the adventure with God.
Andrea and I are very much in love and closer than we thought two people could get, so we’re experiencing the biggest shock I could have imagined—although, having buried all my “growing up” family by the time I was 28, I should not be so surprised, but I find myself in a new world of “reality.”
Last Thursday, when I told a dear friend about what’s happening he said, “I’m coming to town in January and I’ll look forward to a visit then.” I had to gently remind him that “I might not be alive by then.” This is just a vivid example of what we are experiencing in every relationship we have.
Since we have been working full time on a book for five years that includes a trip clear through the Bible I am going to try to tell the story on video. We will report on our progress on this in the future. And as my commitment has been to you all along, I’ll try to continue to respond to your questions that come up as we are walking through our adventure with the Lord and each other.
Bottom line of all of this: We will appreciate your prayers for healing if possible and for continuing to live for him in either case.
I am extremely grateful not only for the amazing life I’ve had, but for friends like you who are reading this.
This is not something we would normally write, but since the last part of this life is a part of the adventure of living with God and with each other, I’ll see what I can do.
The most important thing on my agenda is the people I love—which includes more people than I ever dreamed it would and certainly some of you who are reading this.
***
After a long day at the hospital on Tuesday Keith came home and enjoyed a wonderful evening with his family. Then early Wednesday morning Keith woke up with a fever and discomfort and was taken to the emergency room. There the doctors were able to reduce his fever and he is feeling better. Keith is staying in the hospital for a few days to make sure that any infection is eliminated. The next step, after Keith comes home, is to see an oncologist about possible treatments for this tumor.
We invite you to leave your comments, thoughts and prayers for Keith and Andrea and all of their family here. As they are able they will check in and read your comments.
We thank you for your prayers.
Lord, thank you that you promised to prepare a place for us, beginning now, so that we may be together with you always.
“…I go to prepare a place for you.” John 14:2b
Photo © MaxPaul Franklin 2011
Dearest Keith and Andrea, I am so grateful for you both in my life. My time working with you as an assistant writer was such a huge gift in my life. You encouraged me so much and believed in me. I love you both dearly and am praying and praying for you and your family. You are such a blessing and treasure to the world and I am so forever grateful. All of my love and prayers, Marisa
The news about your health is disturbing. Your writings have inspired me and guided me in my spiritual walk and I will continue to pray for you as you face this interruption of life. You are a winner no matter the outcome: God’s Presence and leadership now and the reality of your presence with Him if He calls you home. Keep looking UP!
Keith-
So sorry to hear the news of the change in your health, friend. So glad to hear the health of your heart and your courage as you look both life and death in the face.
Bless you for your investment in the Desert Fathers many years ago and for the things you shared with a group of middle-aged men seeking to learn how to grow wiser, older and up!
May God give you the strength and wisdom to finish the Bible project.
Love, John Coulombe
KEITH, BE NOT AFRAID I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS . THOSE WORDS TAKE ON A DIFFERENT SENSE OF URGENCY TONIGHT .ARE THEY ONLY A MELODIC CHATTER OR DO THEY BREATHE NEW LIFE NEW LIFE IN WHAT WAS ONCE DEAD .I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS TILL THE END OF TIME. WHAT A GIFT TO KNOW MY BROTHER AWAITS TO WHAT HAS BEEN PROMISED FROM THE BEGINNING .MY BELOVED I’LL NEVER ABANDON YOU .YOU ARE WITH ME IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON .ARE FATHER WILL KNOW YOU BY THE WAY YOU HAVE LOVED.AND YOU HAVE LOVED MUCH.CHRIST HAS BEEN PREPARING YOU FOR SOME TIME .BE NOT AFRAID A BROTHER YOU HAVE COMFORTED .LOVE JOHN
I’m so sorry to hear that you have cancer. I remember the first time I was introduced to A Hunger For Healing. It must be at least 15 years ago. I knew I had to have the set of tapes. I remember thinking how soft spoken and kind you are.
I facilitate a Codependency group at our church, and I frequently recommend your book. It is the most helpful book on the 12 Steps I have every read
You will be in my prayers. God less you and Andrea.
Most precious, beloved & humble man, you have touched more lives than you or any of us could ever imagine. The abundance of prayers for you at this time are immeasurable… for you are now receiving back what you so graciously have given to others. Feel the love, my friend…
It touched my deeply heart that you called me the other day and personally shared with me what is going on. I thank you for taking the time to do that.
I lift you up to our Lord and ask Him to wrap you in His love & light, giving you peace in His protection & loving care. I have prayed, constantly, since learning about your health situation ,and will continue to ask God for a miracle. And, of course, I am praying for our precious Andrea and your family, Keith.
I cannot begin to put into words how much you mean to me. I’m loving you, my friend, as I have from the moment I met you, and if I can do anything at all, I would jump at the chance to be of service to one of the greatest men I’ve ever known!
Keith and Andrea,
Feeling a deep sadness and grief my friend. Tears are running down my face and wish I was right there to give you a huge hug…and pray with you… tell stories …you mean more to me than you will ever know… This 6’6″ man feels more like a sad little boy… know you are loved, respected, and deeply admired. My prayer is for healing…it is a selfish prayer…as I want you here on earth…there is a security in knowing you are there. I would love to come and see you and Andrea. I also know this is a precious time for you , Andrea, your children and grand children. Love you my friend….my prayers are with you both… love Earl
Oh, Keith and Andrea–how well I know that gulping moment of realizing that everything has changed, that life has taken an unexpected turn. And yet I know at some level you are aware that nothing really important has changed–God is good, and you are loved, and ultimately, all will be well. It’s getting through that “in the meantime” that’s the kicker. My prayers and thoughts are with you as you negotiate the coming months, and I am so grateful to have been in better touch recently than in years. I have learned so much from you over the years. I am curious to see what will happen next. Some time back in the 1990s, when Keith came and spoke at my church in Knoxville, he described a way he had learned to pray about people, envisioning holding them in his hands and passing them into God’s hands. This is how I choose to pray for both of you in the coming weeks. Much love, Anne Buchanan
It seems like just yesterday that you took me to “The Edge of Adventure” and followed that with “What To Do With the Rest of Your Life”. My relationship with God and Jesus has expanded beyond my limited imagination. I am so blessed that you and Andrea have taken me into your family and showed me what loving unconditionally really looks like and means. I look forward to your new book with anticipation and hope. Our last talk hit me with a sense of new hope that God’s not done with you yet. Of course, I am selfish and desire to be with you more in the future. I have so much to learn. I continue to pray that you face this situation with dignity, grace and love. I get to see this each time we get together. I love you,
Don Traylor
It is with great sadness that I read of your health situation Keith. Your writings have been such an inspiration to me. Please know that you and Andrea will be in my daily prayers. I do appreciate you informing us all about your health situation so we can understand.
God Bless, Brenda
I am overcome with emotion at this news. I will pray. I have never met Keith but feel more than gratitude for his life- his life of recovery and the books he has blessed the world with.
We pass them out at our recovery meetings. Andrea and Keith. Lean in. I am holding you in prayer.
Sarah
Keith and Andrea, My husband John and I met you in the late ’60s at Laity Lodge and both strarted our Walk with “The Tasre of New Wine”– your books have blessed so many over the years. My John went to be with our Lord on May 8,2008– He too had cancer –lived three glorious months after diagnosis– He was ready to go and he knew where he was going– Jesus held our hands the entire time ! Be thankful for your wonderful lives of Love and trust Him all the way!! Thank God for you both and your faithful witness for Him!! Many,many are praying for you all!! Rejoice in Jesus!! Bette Foster
Keith and Andrea,
You’ll be in our prayers each day: that God will heal this thing and meanwhile hold you both more closely in His arms with every passing day. You have both been living and loving human presences at Chrysostom and beyond for us and your humor and wisdom has always lightened the way. May God inspirit and rejoice you even in this trial.
Bob and Ann
Dear Keith and Andrea, I was so Blessed to meet you because of Keith’s Awesome daughter MK. I was fortunate to sit with Keith for a few hours after a graduation that we both attended. Keith, you changed my life that night. I was going through may things and you helped me to understand I wasn’t a failure because of the issues. I am believing God for a MIRACLE!!!!! Sickness has no authority in your body in JESUS NAME!!!! Amen…Love Always, Sabrina
Keith and Andrea: You both have been God’s Warriors for me. Your love, friendship, spirit have been a model for me. Keith, now you will take on a new warrior role not unkile Apostle Paul. You will be given new energy to share the gospel and the prizes of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus. Jill joins me in sending our love and asking God for blessings.
The two of you have touched and changed more lives than can be counted. I will be thankful for you always. (MaxPaul, if you’re reading this, I just want you to know that you did an amazing job capturing Keith in black and white.) I’m glad you’re capturing the balance of your book on video. This is good stewardship of your talents, Keith. God bless you and give you joy.
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, Keith and Andrea.
Thank you for such honest communication about your cancer and how your body is or is not able to deal with it. Thank you for the willingness to allow us to travel this part of life with you both. I am honored to be on this Journey with you as I have always been. The two of you have modeled so much for so many and I have been among those grateful for the function you helped me discover for my own life. I continue to walk with you both. I love you
Fran
Dear Keith and Andrea: We love you and our prayers are with you.
Hey, Keith my friend and fellow tribal soul-mate. Blessings on you and Andrea. Keep On Keepin’ On as you have done all your life. Bob
My dear friends–Keith and Andrea, I am sad to hear about Keith’s cancer, and pray for God’s healing hand whether it be in restoring your health, or walking with you down the path ahead.
We go back so far…my life was deeply touched by Taste of New Wine when I read it as a struggling seminary student back in 1965-66…and to then get to know you in graduate school at UT-Austin, work with you in groups at St David’s…and share in many other events.
Godspeed. Will
Sorry to hear that you too have cancer. I have it too and it is maglintant also. THey removed two tumors each the size of a tennis ball from the right frontal lobe of my brain, but it was only 70% of the cancer. It was great to meet Suzi, she brought me communion just before I went into surgery. I gave myself a “pity party” for a few days, turned it over to the Lord, and have been living with it for 19 months as it progresses, my parish out here in Port Angels has given me great support, but it is frusterating having to deal with the VA. Im a 100% disabled veteran and have to travel 3 1/2 hours each way for every treatment or appointment. My son is now 26 so I don’t have to worry about him and I’m divorced over 22 years so there isn’t any worries there. I’m getting my house ready to sell so I can move back to the east side of the sound so travel won’t be such a hassle. a few months ago I had to spend 7 weeks in the hospital, as someone finally read my medications sheet and realized they had created the “perfect storm”, so I had 9 days in an induced coma while they had me tied down to the bed while I went through withdrawels, and then the rest of the time on the rehab ward working on getting my balance back and getting my meds straightened out. Let go and know that God will take care of it all and some day you will be out of pain, visiting old friends. Karl
Oh Keith and Andrea, how I love you so. You are definitely in my prayers and in my heart. Thank you for being so honest and forthright with your life and your journey. Your words are not lost, but found within me. Thank you. love, carol
So sorry to hear you are experiencing such health problems.God is able to meet Andreas as well as your needs in His timeing.Our prayers and thoughts go out to you.God bless.Marv and Vi
Your books have been a part of my life for along time. May God surround you and your family with wisdom and strength with this change in your journey of life.
Walking with you, Keith, every step of the way. Shirley and Rudy Nelson
wow. um, its a bit overwhelming to think that my godfather-whom, I realized as i read this and these comments, i have seriously taken for granted-is suddenly confronted by this unexpected new development. i just want you and your wife to know that myself and my entire family are praying as hard as we can for you. We love you so much. As tempted as i am at this point to make a reference to that one song in “home is where you are” about the dad dying-yeah, the eagle one-i simply cannot think of an appropriate line. I hope you can-and, when you do, hopefully you will realize how much of an impact you have made on this world. life is ephemeral, yes–but god and all his creations are eternal.
much love,
Ben Pierce
Dear Keith and Andrea: Sorry to hear about your latest news regarding your cancer. May God’s grace, comfort, peace, and healing strength abound in your lives at this time. I want to thank you for your faithfulness to God’s calling to the ministry of recovery. In the 70s and on, you have been my hero. You message of recovery to be all that God wants you to be and do has been so inspiring to me. Being authentic the real deal as a believer in the world today. In 1991, I had the opportunity to meet you in Las Vegas at a John Bradshaw conference on Healing the Shame. It was exciting to meet you before one of the seminars and talk to you. You were so kind and real in taking time to listen to my story of healing and recovery. You gently asked me if I was attending a 12 Step group. I said no. You encouraged me to find one and start going to meetings. I did find a CODA meeting and my life has been changed. Thank you for your faithfulness to God’s message in your life and how you have wonderfully and creatively communicated His message of love, grace, forgiveness, and restoration.
It’s not over until its over my precious friends. The 100’s of us who have sat at your feet and taken in your wisdom over the years will badger the gates of heaven asking for more time with you! You are both so deeply loved and cherished by so many, but especially by Andy, John and I. We too are in shock right along with you.
Blessings to you in this time of challenge. Thank you for your courage and your witness. I pray for God’s strength and peace for continued healing of body, mind and soul.
We met several years ago at the Wizard of Ads Academy. I was so impressed when you bought a copy of my Christian Sing Along Guitar book. I thought you wanted to learn to play guitar. Later I realized you wanted to encourage a fledgling author. Thank you. Since then your writings have encouraged me to be a better person and a better Chrisitan. Thank you. Thank you for making the world a better place. Thank you for modeling Jesus, the way, the truth, the life.
Armand
Dear Kieth and Andrea,
Thanks you for allowing us to share in this precious time in your lives together. Your courage and grace, though not surprising, is inspiring! Love and blessings to you both, Vera
My dear Keith and Andrea,
I am so grief stricken for both of you as well as for those of us who cannot be with you as you enter this newest part of your lives. Please know how much I love you both and how much you’ve brought into my live for the past 25+ years. I will be in touch, some how, some way. With so much love to you. Pat
Dear Ones, we have been so blessed by you and the people you have touched. From the early ’70’s when you brought Chuck and Carolyn into lots of peoples lives and the wonderful classes we enjoyed, as you worked on a new book. Also the support both of you gave our struggling substance abuse ministry. So much to be thankful for and I treasure that friendship. Andy and I pray that you know how much help you have given so people. We also pray for healing. Much love.
Lord Jesus Christ be with Keith and his family. “Your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven”. Amen
Dearest Keith and Andrea — What unwelcome news this is. We are with you in spirit, holding you close. We still wrap up nearly every day in the prayer shawls you sent when Steve was sick, and now they will remind us to pray for you. Blessings on you both. We love you, Steve and Alice
Thank you, thank you, thank you. So many thanks for so many lives you have touched and will continue to touch–including mine. You were my first voice of Christian reality. You speak the voice of Jesus into my ears and in a manner that so many of us who can hear so few, can hear. I hope this makes sense and that you know how very deeply you have touched me.
Please let us share any part of the future journey with you.
Love and respect, Pat Love
Dear Keith and Andrea,
Although it has been well over 20 years since I was working at WORD and enjoying the adventure of working with you, it feels like the blink of an eye. My heart and prayers go out to you both. You have been such a great inspiration to me over the years as I have tried to live the adventure of faith.
Peace and blessings to both of you.
Piers
I only found your book about a year and a half ago during an incredibly painful time in my life. What an incredible blessing it was! Since that time, I started receiving your newsletter and reading all your articles, and I just have to say I am so grateful to God for you and your honesty, and your life. I am deeply grieved to hear your news, and I will be praying for you and your wife during this scary time.
I know I will never meet you in this life, but I surely look forward to meeting you at the Table of the Lord. Then we shall truly have a Taste of New Wine.
Your Sister In Christ,
Linda Sylvia
Keith and Andrea,
Please know that our clan here in Florida are praying for you without ceasing, as much as that is humanly possible. The impact both of you have had on us over so many decades is immeasurable. You both have been models for me on how to pour the life God has poured into you out into other people’s lives.
-Tom and Susan and the kids.
I was introduced to you via my pastor at Springcreek Church in Garland, TX. I had gained such insight and encouragement from your books and blogs. I can’t imagine the conversations you’re having to have are easy, so I just pray for strength for you and your sweet wife. I pray that your pain will be minimal, and that you will know how much you are loved and will be missed. Tell Jesus I say hello.
Dear Keith and Andrea,
You both mean the world to me and helped change my perspective and faith more than anyone in my life. No words can thank you enough for loving me, guiding me, picking me up every time I fall, teaching me about an incredible relationship with God, being here no matter what time of day and mostly for ALWAYS believing in me.
I love you dearly, Ellen
Dear Keith, I will be holding you and all those who love you in my daily prayers. You are not alone in this as many will be standing with you. I love you and so admire your work. You have played a major part in shaping my career. You are a blessing to all.
Keith and Andrea,
When David and I met you in December of 2005, nearly six years ago, we had no idea what kind of adventure God had for us. We have matured in our relationship with Christ so much and we have you to thank for that. You have lead us, guided us, mentored us, and best of all, loved us. I have had the great honor and pleasure of working for you for the last five years and I have no words to describe the gratitude and thanks I have for you giving me that opportunity. Keith, I am praying for your healing and comfort through this time and I hope you know how much I love you.
i dont know where i heard it, but “a man is immortal until his work on earth is done” – I pray for your healing and also know that for years to come you will be introducing people to the “taste of new wine” through your books etc. A big long hug to both of you. we met briefly when you both came to England in the 80s. All my love, David.
Keith & Andrea our prayers go out to God for you, may you be granted the faith and strenght to face what ever is set before you, whatever lies before you, just keep believing and trusting in God. .
Having you as my Sunday School teacher when I was a teenager was such a gift. I have felt so blessed that our paths have crossed again after so many years. You and Andrea are in my prayers.
Nan
Keith,
I haven’t had much time to get to know you personally although I wish I had. I am very sorry to hear about the results that you face. I do want you to know that I sincerely appreciate all you have done for my family and in particular my wonderful brother. You showed him what no other man ever has and you helped him out at a time in his life when he needed it most; along with so many others. I will never be able to thank you enough. I wish the best for you and your family during this time. You and Andrea will be in my prayers and you will always hold a special place in so many peoples lives.
Faithfully yours,
Matt
You are in my prayers and I want you to know that you are a part of me in more ways that you can know. May you be blessed with peace in this uncertainty. Love you bro!
Beloved Keith and Andrea, you have taught me so much about living, but I’m not quite ready for this lesson about dying. Part of my prayer for you is thanksgiving that God arranged our chance meeting in a dusty Texas parking lot in His beautiful plan for our friendship. OK, we stalked you… but it was Holy Spirit inspired! Many other lives you touched during your visit to Ohio are also lifting you in prayer. We’re on the next plane down there if you say the word! Our hearts are united until eternity because of the unlikely friendship forged on earth.
With much love mingled with grief,
The Livelys
I am in my mid thirties and never truley searched for God until a major relationship struggle occured in my life. A great friend, who is also my pastor, led me to your emails and website. I am so grateful to have found you. The stories and words always seem to relate to exactly what I am going through. Thank you so much for sharing your life with others. It means so much to me.
Sean
I’m so sorry to read about the recent discovery that you have cancer. You have blessed me many, many times with your devotions; and I know there must be a large number of people who feel the same. You and Andrea will be in my prayers for healing if that is in God’s plan and for comfort and peace whatever may happen. Please keep us informed as we anxiously await what lies ahead for you. God bless you and Andrea. We will all be praying for you.