Back in March, I suddenly began experiencing chest pains and shortness of breath with any physical exertion. These symptoms lasted for about eight weeks—where I could not walk 100 yards without stopping to catch my breath—and then they disappeared, possibly because doctors put me on medication normally prescribed for heart attack victims (as a precaution). Tests ensued: EKG's, blood tests, treadmill stress test, and an echo cardiogram. Nothing conclusive.

Just to be sure, the doctors offered an angiogram, saying that I would be on the medication the rest of my life unless they could eliminate the possibility of blocked arteries and/or other evidence of heart disease. I thought about my options for several weeks, then called the clinic to schedule the test, thinking it would be after the first of the year. To my surprise, they informed me that they could do the procedure on the 10th of December.

So, I ask for your prayers, not for a "way of escape" but for God's peace and His glory no matter what the outcome. I realize the medical risks and I know things could escalate quite quickly if major blockages are found in the procedure: at the very least the insertion of a stent, and the worst case scenario could lead to open heart surgery. If God should choose to lead me through pain, suffering, or even death, I submit myself to His gracious care. I also believe God can heal any sickness or disease, especially when "the prayer of faith" pleads for mercy.