Mike once told me he loved the blues because it is ultimately about triumph. Although the blues acknowledge the hardships of life, Mike saw the music itself as a victory over those tough times.
But Mike knew that the ultimate victory was not even about the music. I remember asking him once about how he became a Christian. He told me of a man who was going door to door to pray with people and tell them about the story of Jesus. Mike had lots of questions. He said that this man opened his Bible and took the time to show Mike the answers. And Mike believed. He said, "I've never been the same."
Over the course of his Christian walk, Mike came to understand that while the blues thrilled him, his ultimate blues journey was all about knowing the very Creator of all music itself. That became very real to him in his last days as he would often talk about how near God was to him, and how precious that nearness came to be.
He also continue to take great joy in making music for the Lord. He insisted on playing, even when those of us who loved him wanted him to save his strength. He, like David, literally played with all of his strength to honor God. I think if he had had the strength to dance like David danced, he would have done that too.
On July 19th, a service was held at Covenant Life to celebrate Mike's life and his ultimate blues journey right into the arms of his Maker. About 200 people attended, including friends, family, and his church family. Sandi would like for everyone to know how thankful she is for the lovely words and music that were provided, as well as the beautiful reception afterwards. She recognizes that many hands went into making everything happen. She and the entire family are very grateful for the loving support of friends and family.
I found a few more pictures of Mike from the last few years at church. Enjoy these. And stay in touch with Sandi as she continues her own journey without Mike but with all of us to walk with her.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Friday, July 10, 2009
Celebration of Life in memory of Mike
A Celebration of Life service in memory of Mike is being held Sunday, July 19th, 2PM at Covenant Life Presbyterian Church, 8490 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, Florida, 34238.
In lieu of flowers, financial support may be sent to Sandi Sinn, Covenant Life Presbyterian Church, or Tidewell Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, financial support may be sent to Sandi Sinn, Covenant Life Presbyterian Church, or Tidewell Hospice.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Home
Mike Sinn, a long time member of our worship team, "our brother", and man who battled cancer for several months, went Home to be with the Lord tonight at 8:15 pm. His wife, Sandi, and his Mother, Ann, were at his side. In his years with the church, and because of his willingness to share his guitar skills with others, he built quite a number of friendships. Please continue praying for Sandi, who while having peace knowing Mike is with Christ (and probably jamming with the angels!) will herself have to make many new adjustments to life without him.
At a later date we will have a Celebration of Life in memory of Mike.
At a later date we will have a Celebration of Life in memory of Mike.
Lyrics to ANGEL BAND
Recorded by various artists, but Emmylou Harris did it once... seems like something Mike would like. With Sandi's "absolutely" to post, here are the lyrics:
My latest sun is sinking fast,
My race is nearly run;
My strongest trials now are past,
My triumph is begun.
* Refrain
Oh, come, angel band
Come and around me stand;
Oh, bear me away on your snowy wings
To my eternal home;
Oh, bear me away on your snowy wings
To my eternal home.
I know I'm near the holy ranks
Of friends and kindred dear-
I hear the waves on Jordan's banks,
The crossing must be near.
I've almost reached my heav'nly home,
My spirit loudly sings;
Thy holy ones, behold, they come!
I hear the noise of wings.
Oh, bear my longing heart to Him,
Who bled and died for me;
Whose blood now cleanses from all my sin,
And gives me victory.
My latest sun is sinking fast,
My race is nearly run;
My strongest trials now are past,
My triumph is begun.
* Refrain
Oh, come, angel band
Come and around me stand;
Oh, bear me away on your snowy wings
To my eternal home;
Oh, bear me away on your snowy wings
To my eternal home.
I know I'm near the holy ranks
Of friends and kindred dear-
I hear the waves on Jordan's banks,
The crossing must be near.
I've almost reached my heav'nly home,
My spirit loudly sings;
Thy holy ones, behold, they come!
I hear the noise of wings.
Oh, bear my longing heart to Him,
Who bled and died for me;
Whose blood now cleanses from all my sin,
And gives me victory.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
LATEST UPDATE ON MIKE
Per Doctor's orders, it has been advised that Mike have no more visitors. (immediate family only)
Sandi and Ann are grateful for the many who came to visit today. They also want to convey how much they appreciate your love, support, and prayer.
Postings will be kept current with further information as we know it.
God bless you all!
Sandi and Ann are grateful for the many who came to visit today. They also want to convey how much they appreciate your love, support, and prayer.
Postings will be kept current with further information as we know it.
God bless you all!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
The following message is from Sandi's brother, Tom. Please read carefully for this important update on Mike:
My brother-in-law, Mike, is closer to death. He has had some seizures, great weakening, some personality change and disorientation. The oncologist told my sister Sandi and Mike on Wednesday this week that they have not slowed the progress of the disease, the cancer is in his brain and is likely progressing, and he would not resuscitate as there is no hope. Of course, he was speaking in a temporal sense, for us it is in these moments that we rejoice in hope, and confirm in faith that Jesus Christ has made provision for us. Mike will know what it means to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. He will then sleep in Christ, waiting in joy for that moment when the trumpet sounds and he shall be glorified, rejoining all like him, and greeting all those who are living and also glorified. He will meet Christ in the air, and will be forever with the Lord. I say Amen and Amen.
Tom
Mike is now receiving care at Tidewell Hospice House, Room #6, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota. The family prefers that visitors be limited to one at a time. There are comfortable places to wait, if someone else is visiting when you arrive. If you would like to see Mike and talk to him (according to hospice he can likely hear you) please be aware that he can no longer respond.
My brother-in-law, Mike, is closer to death. He has had some seizures, great weakening, some personality change and disorientation. The oncologist told my sister Sandi and Mike on Wednesday this week that they have not slowed the progress of the disease, the cancer is in his brain and is likely progressing, and he would not resuscitate as there is no hope. Of course, he was speaking in a temporal sense, for us it is in these moments that we rejoice in hope, and confirm in faith that Jesus Christ has made provision for us. Mike will know what it means to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. He will then sleep in Christ, waiting in joy for that moment when the trumpet sounds and he shall be glorified, rejoining all like him, and greeting all those who are living and also glorified. He will meet Christ in the air, and will be forever with the Lord. I say Amen and Amen.
Tom
Mike is now receiving care at Tidewell Hospice House, Room #6, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota. The family prefers that visitors be limited to one at a time. There are comfortable places to wait, if someone else is visiting when you arrive. If you would like to see Mike and talk to him (according to hospice he can likely hear you) please be aware that he can no longer respond.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Update on Mike
From Sandi...
After having been in the hospital for the past week, Mike is back at home receiving medical care. We will have to let you know when he is up to receiving phone calls or visits.
Please note that Mike and Sandi are no longer in need of a printer or fax machine!
After having been in the hospital for the past week, Mike is back at home receiving medical care. We will have to let you know when he is up to receiving phone calls or visits.
Please note that Mike and Sandi are no longer in need of a printer or fax machine!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
A Thank You from MIke and Sandi!
This just in from Sandi:
Mike and I would like the following to put on his blog:
God Bless each and everyone of you for supporting us financially
and spiritually throughout Mike's illness. We want to thank the
Mercy Mission for all their support and offerings. We would not
have been able to pay our monthly bills without them. Today,
the Mercy Mission gave us a generous gift card for Publix. In
our mailbox today was another gift card for Publix from an
anonymous donor.
This is a wonderful praise report! We feel so blessed to be a
part of this wonderful church. We know the church is made up of
godly people who are giving so freely of themselves and their stores.
God love each and every one of you,
Mike and Sandi
Mike and I would like the following to put on his blog:
God Bless each and everyone of you for supporting us financially
and spiritually throughout Mike's illness. We want to thank the
Mercy Mission for all their support and offerings. We would not
have been able to pay our monthly bills without them. Today,
the Mercy Mission gave us a generous gift card for Publix. In
our mailbox today was another gift card for Publix from an
anonymous donor.
This is a wonderful praise report! We feel so blessed to be a
part of this wonderful church. We know the church is made up of
godly people who are giving so freely of themselves and their stores.
God love each and every one of you,
Mike and Sandi
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
I got two notes from Sandi in the last couple of days. I love both of these. The first has an update and room information. Mike is back in the hospital for round 3 of the chemo.
Hi Kay!
Today, 27 May, Wed, Mike went back into the hospital for his third round
of chemo. We're not sure how long he will be there. His usual treatment
lasts five days. We're hoping there won't be any complications to delay his
coming home afterwards.
Right now his room # is 840 and his phone # is 917-3840. They do want
him to have a room to himself, but are waiting for one to become available.
We want everyone to know how much we appreciate their prayers, phone
calls and visits!
Love,
Sandi
Hello Folks!
Wanted you all to know that Mike went into the hospital today to start his third round
of chemo. He will be there at least six days, maybe longer depending on the effects
to his body.
We love you all and appreciate your prayers and good thoughts toward his complete
healing.
We had a wonderful three weeks with Mike at home. He cherished every minute.
He ate very well --------almost round the clock. We listened to almost all of our CDs,
most of which are Blues (from the beginning to the latest years). We watched very
little TV (most of the programs we used to like, don't compare with life itself).
Thank you all for all the love you've shown us.
Sandi
Hi Kay!
Today, 27 May, Wed, Mike went back into the hospital for his third round
of chemo. We're not sure how long he will be there. His usual treatment
lasts five days. We're hoping there won't be any complications to delay his
coming home afterwards.
Right now his room # is 840 and his phone # is 917-3840. They do want
him to have a room to himself, but are waiting for one to become available.
We want everyone to know how much we appreciate their prayers, phone
calls and visits!
Love,
Sandi
Hello Folks!
Wanted you all to know that Mike went into the hospital today to start his third round
of chemo. He will be there at least six days, maybe longer depending on the effects
to his body.
We love you all and appreciate your prayers and good thoughts toward his complete
healing.
We had a wonderful three weeks with Mike at home. He cherished every minute.
He ate very well --------almost round the clock. We listened to almost all of our CDs,
most of which are Blues (from the beginning to the latest years). We watched very
little TV (most of the programs we used to like, don't compare with life itself).
Thank you all for all the love you've shown us.
Sandi
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
A Reprieve!
Hi everyone! Mike and Sandi sent a note to say that Mike was given an extra week at home by the docs. He would REALLY love visitors and phone calls. If you want to drop by, just give Sandi a call to let her know. The doc is very pleased with Mike's progress and with the fact that he gained some much needed weight.
We were also pleased to have Mike at church on Sunday and to see Sandi's beaming face on the front row! Mike, you rocked the house. We love you!
We were also pleased to have Mike at church on Sunday and to see Sandi's beaming face on the front row! Mike, you rocked the house. We love you!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Another thing that would help...
Sandi just wrote that they really appreciate the offers for food, but what would help even more is a gift card to Publix and perhaps Wal-Mart. That way, they can get what they need as they need it.
Great news, though, they MAY have a printer that will work for them She will keep us posted!
Great news, though, they MAY have a printer that will work for them She will keep us posted!
Monday, May 11, 2009
Printer anyone?
Hi all! Mike is home and is eating and is in very good spirits. He played guitar for 2 services last Sunday, and he was overjoyed to do it! We were all thrilled to see him doing what he loves most. Sandi is doing well, too, but she is overwhelmed with paperwork, which brings me to a request.
Sandi and Mike could really use a 3-in-1 printer/scanner/fax machine. With all the paperwork they are doing now, Sandi finds herself having to run back and forth to a copying machine, on top of all the other things she must tend to in the daily care for Mike. It would be a huge help to have a machine right there in the home.
Sandi could probably also benefit from friends who could just enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with her. She could use a good listening ear once in a while. She has the tougher job in some ways of having to keep her mental faculties alert, her energy up, her spirits up, and her emotions in check in order to be there for Mike. It's probably a good idea to call ahead if you want to visit with Sandi, but don't let that stop you! Just so you know, she says they don't always answer the phone, but they do check consistently for messages.
Next week, if all goes as planned, Mike will be back in the hospital for chemo, starting on Monday. This might be an especially good time to whisk Sandi away since Mike will have nurses available to keep an eye on him.
She did say that they are doing great with their meal supply. Her freezer is packed to capacity, so thank you all for the food you have brought. If you are thinking of bringing more food, you might want to just give Sandi a quick call to see if she even needs anything.
Thanks, everyone!
Sandi and Mike could really use a 3-in-1 printer/scanner/fax machine. With all the paperwork they are doing now, Sandi finds herself having to run back and forth to a copying machine, on top of all the other things she must tend to in the daily care for Mike. It would be a huge help to have a machine right there in the home.
Sandi could probably also benefit from friends who could just enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with her. She could use a good listening ear once in a while. She has the tougher job in some ways of having to keep her mental faculties alert, her energy up, her spirits up, and her emotions in check in order to be there for Mike. It's probably a good idea to call ahead if you want to visit with Sandi, but don't let that stop you! Just so you know, she says they don't always answer the phone, but they do check consistently for messages.
Next week, if all goes as planned, Mike will be back in the hospital for chemo, starting on Monday. This might be an especially good time to whisk Sandi away since Mike will have nurses available to keep an eye on him.
She did say that they are doing great with their meal supply. Her freezer is packed to capacity, so thank you all for the food you have brought. If you are thinking of bringing more food, you might want to just give Sandi a quick call to see if she even needs anything.
Thanks, everyone!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Friday, May 1, 2009
Just in from Sandi--
Mike is in the hospital through the weekend. He would love to have some visitors.
Sandi is doing well. She's just TIRED! She could probably use a good foot massage! Or maybe someone could just kidnap her and take her out for ice cream.
Do call Mike at least if you can't get by to the hospital this weekend.
Mike is in the hospital through the weekend. He would love to have some visitors.
Sandi is doing well. She's just TIRED! She could probably use a good foot massage! Or maybe someone could just kidnap her and take her out for ice cream.
Do call Mike at least if you can't get by to the hospital this weekend.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Just in from Sandi...
Thank you all for continuing to keep Mike and Sandi in your prayers and encouraging him with your cards and visits.
Mike is now in room 840 and his phone number
is 917-5840.
He will still be in the hospital for some time.
He has pulled muscles on the left side of his
chest; quite painful.
Thank you all for continuing to keep Mike and Sandi in your prayers and encouraging him with your cards and visits.
Monday, April 27, 2009
As noted, Mike is back in the hospital. He is in Room 835. Apparently, he was experiencing extreme pain in his rib/torso area. They are conducting test and an MRI on this area to see if they can figure out what the problem is. The good news is that they have managed to get his pain under control. Sandi will keep us posted as she learns more.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Just got an update from Sandi. Mike is back in the hospital. He is in room 835. This is all I know at this time, but I'll try to get more details in the morning. If any of you talk to Sandi before I do, please feel free to call me with an update, and I'll be sure it is posted here. You can reach me at 706.1888.
Thanks,
Kay
Thanks,
Kay
This just in from Sandi:
Mike is having a very rough weekend. He is home from his 2nd round of chemo, and it sounds like it really did a number on him. I'm sure it's almost as difficult for Sandi who feels the helplessness of being unable to relieve Mike's pain.
Sandi did want me to be sure to convey her undying gratitude for the help they received in the flooring in their house. It meant such a great deal to them both and was such a wonderful example of God's love for them through his body, the church. If you were involved in helping them, know that you not only met a practical need; you also provided a significant boost of encouragement to two people who can use all the encouragement they can get right now.
If Sandi tells you that it's not a good time to visit, don't let that discourage you from trying again later or from at least popping a note in the mail to Mike. He may not always be able to have visitors, but when he is feeling up to it, he would so love it. I've posted their address on the left-hand side so that you can write to Mike if you'd like.
Mike is having a very rough weekend. He is home from his 2nd round of chemo, and it sounds like it really did a number on him. I'm sure it's almost as difficult for Sandi who feels the helplessness of being unable to relieve Mike's pain.
Sandi did want me to be sure to convey her undying gratitude for the help they received in the flooring in their house. It meant such a great deal to them both and was such a wonderful example of God's love for them through his body, the church. If you were involved in helping them, know that you not only met a practical need; you also provided a significant boost of encouragement to two people who can use all the encouragement they can get right now.
If Sandi tells you that it's not a good time to visit, don't let that discourage you from trying again later or from at least popping a note in the mail to Mike. He may not always be able to have visitors, but when he is feeling up to it, he would so love it. I've posted their address on the left-hand side so that you can write to Mike if you'd like.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
Barry went to see Mike yesterday and brings this report. It was a rough week. The first few days of chemo were very painful, but Mike is better now and very much wanting visitors! Please DO drop in to see him. It is very encouraging to him to see your faces.
He will be in the hospital at least until Saturday. If you want to be sure before you visit, just call Sarasota Memorial and ask. Mike is in room 843.
Mike wants to tell everyone about how God has met him in such a remarkable way throughout this ordeal. He says that he has known God's nearness in a powerful way, and it is almost overwhelming. His words bring hope to us all that even in the darkest places, God is not only there, but he walks before, behind, beside and in us. What a comfort!
He will be in the hospital at least until Saturday. If you want to be sure before you visit, just call Sarasota Memorial and ask. Mike is in room 843.
Mike wants to tell everyone about how God has met him in such a remarkable way throughout this ordeal. He says that he has known God's nearness in a powerful way, and it is almost overwhelming. His words bring hope to us all that even in the darkest places, God is not only there, but he walks before, behind, beside and in us. What a comfort!
Monday, April 20, 2009
This morning, Monday, April 20th, Mike returns to the hospital for a 2nd round of treatments. Yesterday, he was in church. Yes, he was in a wheelchair. Yes, he was weak. Yes, he was tired. But he was there, and it brought him joy to be there.
Mike spoke to us, with that mischievous twinkle in his eye, of his desire for prayer. "Just tell everyone to keep on their schedule of prayer." Then he added, "Maybe tell them to bump it up a bit." Hear that, saints? Bump up the prayer schedule for Mike!
He tells anyone who will listen of how surprised he has been by the way God has drawn him closer to himself. I commented to him, "You've been to the dark place and found out that God was there." And he look straight at me and said, "Oh he's there alright. You can believe that!"
I asked if perhaps we could bring a group of musicians to come and sing at his house, but Sandi shared that he is extremely fragile right now, and it would just be too much. Indeed, Barry and I visited yesterday, and Mike appeared to be very tired. Of course, the medication makes him very sleepy too.
Of course, this is as hard on Sandi as Mike. She has so many decisions to make right now, so much of a load to carry by herslef, and so many strange emotions to deal with. Mike was in the hospital for 30 days! Now he's going back for another 5 or 6 days. It's tough to wake up each day to this reality and simply to his absence while he's under treatment.
If you want to visit Mike this week while he's under treatment, he is on the 8th floor of Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Please don't bring food or plants, and though we love Mike, refrain from the kisses too. (I know this is a big disappointment to all the guys out there! ;)
Sandi could use all the encouragement she can get too. I recommend we pray for her as much as Mike and look for ways to encourage her.
Mike spoke to us, with that mischievous twinkle in his eye, of his desire for prayer. "Just tell everyone to keep on their schedule of prayer." Then he added, "Maybe tell them to bump it up a bit." Hear that, saints? Bump up the prayer schedule for Mike!
He tells anyone who will listen of how surprised he has been by the way God has drawn him closer to himself. I commented to him, "You've been to the dark place and found out that God was there." And he look straight at me and said, "Oh he's there alright. You can believe that!"
I asked if perhaps we could bring a group of musicians to come and sing at his house, but Sandi shared that he is extremely fragile right now, and it would just be too much. Indeed, Barry and I visited yesterday, and Mike appeared to be very tired. Of course, the medication makes him very sleepy too.
Of course, this is as hard on Sandi as Mike. She has so many decisions to make right now, so much of a load to carry by herslef, and so many strange emotions to deal with. Mike was in the hospital for 30 days! Now he's going back for another 5 or 6 days. It's tough to wake up each day to this reality and simply to his absence while he's under treatment.
If you want to visit Mike this week while he's under treatment, he is on the 8th floor of Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Please don't bring food or plants, and though we love Mike, refrain from the kisses too. (I know this is a big disappointment to all the guys out there! ;)
Sandi could use all the encouragement she can get too. I recommend we pray for her as much as Mike and look for ways to encourage her.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Crazy Guitar Man on Easter!
Good news! Mike came home from the hospital on Friday. On Saturday night, he was actually in church, wailing away on that guitar! He would have come on Sunday to do the same if we hadn't all said, "Stop!" "Get some rest!" But we were all truly blessed to see him there and to see him take such joy in the musical gifts that God has given him. He said that he prayed to get through the infection he was fighting so that he could be in church for Easter. He credits God for hearing and answering that prayer.
Mike is resting now at Sandi's mother's house while Sandi is reorganizing their house. They had to rip up all the old carpet, due to a mold issue, and some guys from church came and helped them install new wood floors! Sandi said she has really been blessed at the way people have pitched in to help and have been such an encouragement to them both.
Sandi MAY need help putting the house back in order, but she said she's okay for now and will keep us posted. She promised to yell "uncle" if she does need help getting things back into place and ready for Mike to come home.
Keep them in your prayers, and know that Mike is blessed by everyone's love.
Mike is resting now at Sandi's mother's house while Sandi is reorganizing their house. They had to rip up all the old carpet, due to a mold issue, and some guys from church came and helped them install new wood floors! Sandi said she has really been blessed at the way people have pitched in to help and have been such an encouragement to them both.
Sandi MAY need help putting the house back in order, but she said she's okay for now and will keep us posted. She promised to yell "uncle" if she does need help getting things back into place and ready for Mike to come home.
Keep them in your prayers, and know that Mike is blessed by everyone's love.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Today's message from Sandi:
"Mike is getting out of the hospital in the morning and then we have to go to the county health dept to meet with a doctor.
You could put on the blog about Mike being released on Fri morning. People should call first before coming to visit. The first few days at home will be chaotic!!
Mike is planning on playing at church Sat eve and Sun morn! I don't know how he can manage, but that's up to him."
What can I say? Mike is one stubborn dude! We love ya, Mike!
"Mike is getting out of the hospital in the morning and then we have to go to the county health dept to meet with a doctor.
You could put on the blog about Mike being released on Fri morning. People should call first before coming to visit. The first few days at home will be chaotic!!
Mike is planning on playing at church Sat eve and Sun morn! I don't know how he can manage, but that's up to him."
What can I say? Mike is one stubborn dude! We love ya, Mike!
A few updates from Sandi:
Thank you all again for your visits. As Mike is now undergoing chemo, there are a few things you should know about visiting. Please don't bring food as his diet is being monitored. Please be sure to wash your hands before you come into his room, and as much as he loves your affection, no kisses and hugs right now. His immune level is quite low and he's fighting infection. Obviously, if you have a cold or other illness, you should just give him a call or send a note rather than visit.
Sandi is busy as can be trying to get their home prepared for Mike to come home. They are trying to get him home this week. Sandi is also running around doing all kinds of insurance and disability paperwork. As you can imagine, she has her hands full.
Mike would really love to come to church this weekend, but I suppose that depends on his immune levels. Do continue to pray for Mike's healing and for Sandi's strength.
Thank you all again for your visits. As Mike is now undergoing chemo, there are a few things you should know about visiting. Please don't bring food as his diet is being monitored. Please be sure to wash your hands before you come into his room, and as much as he loves your affection, no kisses and hugs right now. His immune level is quite low and he's fighting infection. Obviously, if you have a cold or other illness, you should just give him a call or send a note rather than visit.
Sandi is busy as can be trying to get their home prepared for Mike to come home. They are trying to get him home this week. Sandi is also running around doing all kinds of insurance and disability paperwork. As you can imagine, she has her hands full.
Mike would really love to come to church this weekend, but I suppose that depends on his immune levels. Do continue to pray for Mike's healing and for Sandi's strength.
Monday, April 6, 2009
I got a note from Sandi over the weekend. She asked me to please convey their gratitude for all the visits. They really do go a long way to cheer Mike and encourage them both. I will try to contact Sandi tomorrow to get more details on Mike's condition so that I can update you a little more. If you have a chance, do drop by to visit Mike.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Dropped in to see Mike today and got an update. First, he is in great spirits. Just to give you a glimpse, here's a few direct quotes:
Sandi asked me to let everyone know that if anyone comes to visit who is sniffling, coughing, etc., they must wear a mask. Whenever Mike walks outside his room, he also must wear a mask. The masks are hanging on the door to his room.
I asked Mike if he wanted me to tell everyone anything else. He said, "Tell everyone I love them deeply and thank them so much for their prayers. That's the most powerful thing they can do for me."
"It is my goal to be at church next weekend, playing on the worship team! I want to be there and thank the people for praying for me."The official diagnosis is lymphoma of the bones. He has just finished the first of 5 or 6 rounds of chemo. The first round lasted about 5 days. Today, Mike looked good and, as noted, was in good spirits, but he was very tired and sleepy.
"I am rejoicing in the Lord. Rejoicing in the Lord! Big things will come of this and bring glory to the Lord."
"You can really feel the power of the body of Christ, and it's awesome."
Sandi asked me to let everyone know that if anyone comes to visit who is sniffling, coughing, etc., they must wear a mask. Whenever Mike walks outside his room, he also must wear a mask. The masks are hanging on the door to his room.
I asked Mike if he wanted me to tell everyone anything else. He said, "Tell everyone I love them deeply and thank them so much for their prayers. That's the most powerful thing they can do for me."
Thursday, March 26, 2009
I got a quick note from Sandi today to say that Mike has indeed started chemo. Mike cannot have flowers or fruits in his room because of his low white count and resulting low immunity. As of today, he's in his 3rd day of chemo, and today he was also scheduled to get more blood and platelets.
I'll try to connect with Sandi tomorrow for a more thorough update and post sometime over the weekend. Thanks everyone for continuing to pray for them both.
I'll try to connect with Sandi tomorrow for a more thorough update and post sometime over the weekend. Thanks everyone for continuing to pray for them both.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Ultimate Blues Journey
This blog is created to provide updates on our brother Mike Sinn who, as you know, is in the hospital undergoing diagnosis and treatment for cancer. Don't be fooled by the title. Mike and Sandi are not depressed! Mike says that the blues are ultimately about triumph, persevering, and coming out ok in the end. In his mind, the blues are a good thing. :)
Mike begins chemo treatments today. We don't know many details other than that. He is very much enjoying visitors, but with the start of chemo, it might be good to call the hospital to make sure he is either not in the midst of treatment or that he is feeling up to visitors.
Mike is in room 843 at Sarasota Memorial.
Mike begins chemo treatments today. We don't know many details other than that. He is very much enjoying visitors, but with the start of chemo, it might be good to call the hospital to make sure he is either not in the midst of treatment or that he is feeling up to visitors.
Mike is in room 843 at Sarasota Memorial.
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