Pastor Dan Health Updates
Below you'll find entries written either from The Creek team or Dan himself of updates for this medical journey he is walking through. Feel free to send notes of encouragement to the front office at 6430 S Franklin Rd, Indianapolis, IN, 46259.
Posted October 6
Dear Church Family,
Over the past month, our family has walked through a whirlwind of medical updates, unexpected challenges, and incredible answers to prayer. Through every step of this journey, we have felt deeply held by your love, encouragement, and faithful prayers. There have been several unique turns along the way, so I wanted to share an update on where things stand today and the truly wonderful news we have received.
In late August, I had routine blood work done. Surprisingly, my white blood cell count was way off, so I gave more blood and subsequently underwent both a bone marrow biopsy and a full-body CT scan. After reviewing that initial data, my care team gave me a definitive diagnosis of peripheral T-cell lymphoma NOS—an aggressive and life-threatening cancer. That news was both shocking and heavy. We immediately began preparing our hearts for a surgical port, 4+ months of intensive chemotherapy, and a grueling road toward recovery.
Before that treatment began, I was able to consult with two different specialists who work specifically with T-cell conditions and rare bone marrow disorders. Our original goal was simply to evaluate treatment approaches, understand follow-up care, and choose our cancer team.
However, after thorough reviews of my pathology, blood work, and other testing, both specialists independently came to the same conclusion: while my lab work contains features that can closely mimic lymphoma under the microscope, I do not have lymphoma, but an ultra-rare blood disorder that is significantly less threatening and can be treated very differently. Since those consultations, additional physicians have reviewed my case, and there is now broad consensus around this revised diagnosis.
The great news is that I do not need high-dose chemotherapy or hospital infusions. Under the guidance of my oncology and hematology team, I have begun oral medication designed to address the underlying disorder and allow my immune system to recover.
While I thankfully do not have lymphoma, my white blood cells are currently severely suppressed, which leaves me seriously immunocompromised until we get things back in balance. Because my frontline infection-fighting cells are essentially at zero right now, I have to take strict everyday health precautions, remain on preventative antibiotics, and practice careful social distancing. Unfortunately, this will limit certain pastoral interactions on Sundays as well as throughout the week. But I am hopeful it will not have to last too long!
We cannot adequately express what your support has meant to our family over these past several weeks. Every text message, prayer, shared meal, and word of encouragement has been a tangible reminder of God’s grace and the strength of this community. Thank you for walking beside us in the valley and celebrating with us in this immense relief. Please continue to pray that the upcoming treatment goes smoothly, that my white blood counts rebound quickly, and that our family stays healthy and covered in peace in the months ahead.
With deep gratitude and love,
Dan & Family