Gary Austin to Have Procedure

Gary Austin, pastor of the Grace Brethren church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is recovering from surgery for colorectal cancer. The following is excerpted from his most recent update:

Wanted to give you all a quick update on "my journey." After two days of consultations and tests, the surgeon has decided to proceed with reversal of my ostemy on THIS FRIDAY - July 6.

This ostemy reversal process is not considered "difficult" nor a long process, but they want me in the hospital over the weekend at least to make sure I can "eat and process" everything properly.

I preached for the first time last Sunday - from Isaiah 43:1-7. Had very positive responses - first time preaching since mid-April. I had this week's message already "in the hopper" - starting a new series going through the book of Ephesians.

The chemo doctor wanted to proceed with a new round of chemotherapy - that will last four months - much more intense than the initial treatments in March. But he has agreed that doing the reversal is good to do at this time. He has set July 23 as the "target date" to resume chemotherapy treatments - presuming I heal properly from this surgery on Friday and show "healthy signs" to begin what he is describing as "rough."

Thank you for your continuing prayers and notes of encouragement. The church at Cedar Rapids continues to be incredibly supportive and encouraging through this whole journey. Praise God for them - and pray for their endurance on this journey. Thank you.