Have you ever received a prayer request and then after some time passes, wondered how the person is doing? Our church sent out a prayer request for Kim, who has cancer. Last week, she gave us an update and it was so helpful to read about her cancer journey.

She wrote to us:

“Last week was rough. I had more fatigue the week after chemo. Sores on my tongue made eating and talking difficult. Thankfully, I was able to get a prescription mouthwash that worked wonders. That said, I would like you to join me in thanking God that I continue to tolerate the chemo well and the side effects, while not pleasant, are manageable. I am also so very grateful to be feeling good this week! I have my PET Scan on Wednesday. Please pray that the scan shows a dramatic reduction of cancer.”

I know that not everyone is able to provide a written update. In those cases, perhaps a family member or close friend can provide updates using a service such as Caring Bridge. When we know, we fold in the specifics into our prayer, which is such an important Caregiving Basic.

If You Tell Me, Then I Will Know

Kim’s story inspired me to write this poem.

If you tell me, then I will know.
I will know how to pray.

We have a prayer chain at church
and I get an email
with your prayer request.

So I start praying for you. . .

But as the days pass, I wonder:
how you are doing?
are you well?
should I just keep praying
         forever.
So please tell me, then I will know.
            Share an update.
             Share specific future prayer requests.
 If you tell me, then I will know.

Thank you, Kim, for sharing your story with us. May it inspire those who are suffering to reach out so that caring individuals can support them.