We have created a google calendar for Sheryl and Lon. Our hope is that someone can be praying, fasting and going to church or the temple in their behalf everyday that Sheryl is doing her Stem Cell procedure. It is our hope that Sheryl and Lon will be comforted and strengthened each day as we sacrifice and concentrate our prayers in their behalf.
We would like someone to sign up everyday starting November 1st to November 30th. Try to pick a day without a name. If all the days are full then we would love to have multiple people on some days.
To sign on to the calendar, follow these steps:
1) go to google.com
2) click on the tab that says "MORE" (at the top) then scroll down to "CALENDAR" and select it.
3) under email type in: sherylinchina and the password is: inchengdu
note: if you are already signed into your own google or gmail account, you will need to log out and then log back in with the "sherylinchina" login
4) this will bring up the calendar and you just click on the date you would like to enter your name and type your name.
Please do not delete anything on this calendar.
Thank you!! Tami
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Special Prayer for Sheryl
Family & Friends-
We have the wonderful opportunity to unite in prayer with the Prophet, First Presidency, and Quorum of the 12 Apostles. This Thursday at 11 AM MDT (October 25th), President Hinckley will be praying specifically for Sheryl and the Wardrop family. Please join us in prayer at this time. See the email message below from Sheryl's mom for more details.
Sheryl:
This has been an amazing, spiritual week here in Tonga. Some day I hope to record most of the highlights and send it to you. But...................
The major highlight came yesterday when Elder and Sister Russell M. Nelson came to Tonga for our Stake Conference. It is the Liahona Tonga Stake and we attend there. (We live on the campus of Liahona School and walk to Church.) Elder Condie came with them as well. After the evening Saturday night Conference, there was a small dinner. We were invited to attend. We sat with the Nelsons. He remembered us from Minnesota (where he stayed with us for 3 days), and Boise, and Kirtland. His beautiful new, young wife is outstanding.
We talked to them about some special experiences he had had in China some 17 years ago. He had spent a lot of time in Minnesota telling us about those experiences. He was surprised that I remembered the stories almost word for word. He brought us up to date on Dr. Chung whom he baptized at that time. As we talked about China, we told him about you, Sheryl. After a few minutes, Elder Nelson asked, "What is your daughter's name?" We spelled it to him as he wrote it down.
He then told us he would take her name to the First Presidency/12 Apostles prayer meeting in the Salt Lake Temple on Thursday at about 11:00 am. It would go on a special prayer roll and President Hinckley would read off her name and they would all pray for her.
Sister Nelson, who was holding my hand, said, "Now we know why we came to Tonga. We came to hear about Sheryl and to put her name on President Hinckley's prayer list. This is our dessert." We were all crying at that point.
This morning (Sunday) at Stake Conference, Elder Nelson gave our stake an Apostolic Blessing. He promised us that if any of us had illness in our families, they would receive the blessing of healing. After Conference, we ate lunch with the Nelsons, and Sister Nelson said she was watching my face during the blessing. She said she could see my reaction to the blessing of healing. And she hugged me again.
I know there have been times we have wondered if we should leave our mission and go to where we can be with you or with your children. You have told us every time that you want us to stay and serve - that you need a miracle and maybe if we serve faithfully, you will be blessed with a miracle.
We have been blessed so many times to know that this is where we are supposed to be at this time and place. The Lord knows where he wants us to be. We trust in the Lord that he wants us here.
I am suggesting that the entire Brown Family join with the First Presidency and the Twelve and kneel in prayer this Thursday, October 25 at 11:00 a.m. (Salt Lake time) no matter where in the world we might be. For us in Tonga it will 6:00 a.m. on Friday morning. I have complete faith that our prayers will be heard and "God will remember Sheryl".
I can't remember if I told you that Princess Pilolavu of Tonga reminded me on Thursday that she is still praying for Sheryl.
We love you and Lon so much and know you are worthy and prepared for your miracle.
Love, Mom and Dad
We have the wonderful opportunity to unite in prayer with the Prophet, First Presidency, and Quorum of the 12 Apostles. This Thursday at 11 AM MDT (October 25th), President Hinckley will be praying specifically for Sheryl and the Wardrop family. Please join us in prayer at this time. See the email message below from Sheryl's mom for more details.
Sheryl:
This has been an amazing, spiritual week here in Tonga. Some day I hope to record most of the highlights and send it to you. But...................
The major highlight came yesterday when Elder and Sister Russell M. Nelson came to Tonga for our Stake Conference. It is the Liahona Tonga Stake and we attend there. (We live on the campus of Liahona School and walk to Church.) Elder Condie came with them as well. After the evening Saturday night Conference, there was a small dinner. We were invited to attend. We sat with the Nelsons. He remembered us from Minnesota (where he stayed with us for 3 days), and Boise, and Kirtland. His beautiful new, young wife is outstanding.
We talked to them about some special experiences he had had in China some 17 years ago. He had spent a lot of time in Minnesota telling us about those experiences. He was surprised that I remembered the stories almost word for word. He brought us up to date on Dr. Chung whom he baptized at that time. As we talked about China, we told him about you, Sheryl. After a few minutes, Elder Nelson asked, "What is your daughter's name?" We spelled it to him as he wrote it down.
He then told us he would take her name to the First Presidency/12 Apostles prayer meeting in the Salt Lake Temple on Thursday at about 11:00 am. It would go on a special prayer roll and President Hinckley would read off her name and they would all pray for her.
Sister Nelson, who was holding my hand, said, "Now we know why we came to Tonga. We came to hear about Sheryl and to put her name on President Hinckley's prayer list. This is our dessert." We were all crying at that point.
This morning (Sunday) at Stake Conference, Elder Nelson gave our stake an Apostolic Blessing. He promised us that if any of us had illness in our families, they would receive the blessing of healing. After Conference, we ate lunch with the Nelsons, and Sister Nelson said she was watching my face during the blessing. She said she could see my reaction to the blessing of healing. And she hugged me again.
I know there have been times we have wondered if we should leave our mission and go to where we can be with you or with your children. You have told us every time that you want us to stay and serve - that you need a miracle and maybe if we serve faithfully, you will be blessed with a miracle.
We have been blessed so many times to know that this is where we are supposed to be at this time and place. The Lord knows where he wants us to be. We trust in the Lord that he wants us here.
I am suggesting that the entire Brown Family join with the First Presidency and the Twelve and kneel in prayer this Thursday, October 25 at 11:00 a.m. (Salt Lake time) no matter where in the world we might be. For us in Tonga it will 6:00 a.m. on Friday morning. I have complete faith that our prayers will be heard and "God will remember Sheryl".
I can't remember if I told you that Princess Pilolavu of Tonga reminded me on Thursday that she is still praying for Sheryl.
We love you and Lon so much and know you are worthy and prepared for your miracle.
Love, Mom and Dad
Monday, October 15, 2007
Message from Sheryl's Mom
Angel Sheryl:
I am so impressed with you and Lon. In spite of your health problems, you still able to laugh. It certainly makes sense that bad breath would mean breathing problems. We find similar language differences here and after a while, we realize that their way of saying something is actually superior to ours.
I looked up Hainan on Google. It looks gorgeous - just like Hawaii or Tahiti. I hope the rain stops soon so you can enjoy some time outside in the pure beauty of that island. I am happy that you are in a warm place. I know your condition is worse when you are cold. It looks like a great place to rest and get better. It looks like a place we would all like to visit.
We are so happy to know how loved and appreciated you are there. It is really a miracle that all the people, doctors, nurses, etc. love you and treat you like family. The Lord is certainly blessing you. We wish we could see Lon in action with the Chinese language. I can see why the people love him so much. It is great that you can all laugh together. How blessed you are to have such a wonderful, loving husband who is always having the "best day of his life". He will never allow you to get depressed or scared. Thanks Lon, we love you so very much.
We fasted for you this weekend and many of our dear friends here in Tonga fasted with us again. We trust in the Lord and know that he wants us here at this time.
We are praying all day, every day for you. I guess the transplant will start today. Please keep in touch with us.
All our love,
~Mom and Dad
I am so impressed with you and Lon. In spite of your health problems, you still able to laugh. It certainly makes sense that bad breath would mean breathing problems. We find similar language differences here and after a while, we realize that their way of saying something is actually superior to ours.
I looked up Hainan on Google. It looks gorgeous - just like Hawaii or Tahiti. I hope the rain stops soon so you can enjoy some time outside in the pure beauty of that island. I am happy that you are in a warm place. I know your condition is worse when you are cold. It looks like a great place to rest and get better. It looks like a place we would all like to visit.
We are so happy to know how loved and appreciated you are there. It is really a miracle that all the people, doctors, nurses, etc. love you and treat you like family. The Lord is certainly blessing you. We wish we could see Lon in action with the Chinese language. I can see why the people love him so much. It is great that you can all laugh together. How blessed you are to have such a wonderful, loving husband who is always having the "best day of his life". He will never allow you to get depressed or scared. Thanks Lon, we love you so very much.
We fasted for you this weekend and many of our dear friends here in Tonga fasted with us again. We trust in the Lord and know that he wants us here at this time.
We are praying all day, every day for you. I guess the transplant will start today. Please keep in touch with us.
All our love,
~Mom and Dad
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Note from the Murphys
Dear Brown & Wardrop families:
We are so proud and honored to be considered as family so we can laugh, cry, enjoy your stories, and feel of you strong and sweet spirits, as we worry and pray along with you and so many of your other friends. What a blessing to have your friends Jimmy Lu and his wife to be with you so your stay and treatments can be far less stressful while being in such a far away foreign land. It sounds like the Chinese will be humble and flock to the "Gospel" when the time is right, and their government allows it to happen. Your examples and love for them will be felt, and certainly will pave the way for many to accept and want to know why you are so special when that time comes. I hope you have thought to consider including the Barton family (especially Mike & Laurie Hurr) in your Blog, since they have so much love, respect, and contacts with the Mainland Chinese. I think your Dad an Mom are aware that Mike recently took a 2 or 3 year leave of absence as CEO from American Grain-Asia to serve as "Mission President" in Taiwan China. There contacts, as well as Jimmy Lu's may be helpfull.
With Love, The Murphys
We are so proud and honored to be considered as family so we can laugh, cry, enjoy your stories, and feel of you strong and sweet spirits, as we worry and pray along with you and so many of your other friends. What a blessing to have your friends Jimmy Lu and his wife to be with you so your stay and treatments can be far less stressful while being in such a far away foreign land. It sounds like the Chinese will be humble and flock to the "Gospel" when the time is right, and their government allows it to happen. Your examples and love for them will be felt, and certainly will pave the way for many to accept and want to know why you are so special when that time comes. I hope you have thought to consider including the Barton family (especially Mike & Laurie Hurr) in your Blog, since they have so much love, respect, and contacts with the Mainland Chinese. I think your Dad an Mom are aware that Mike recently took a 2 or 3 year leave of absence as CEO from American Grain-Asia to serve as "Mission President" in Taiwan China. There contacts, as well as Jimmy Lu's may be helpfull.
With Love, The Murphys
Friday, October 12, 2007
Note from the De Vissers
Lon and Sheryl,
It sounds like you have hooked up once again with Jimmy and Jau-Fang. I am glad that they are able to be of assistance and am grateful to have played a small roll in getting you initially together. I hope Jimmy and Jau-Fang are doing well. Tell them hi from me.
We are grateful to hear from you and to know that things are going so well. We love you guys and you are always in our prayers. !
Love,
The De Vissers (Matt and Jan)
It sounds like you have hooked up once again with Jimmy and Jau-Fang. I am glad that they are able to be of assistance and am grateful to have played a small roll in getting you initially together. I hope Jimmy and Jau-Fang are doing well. Tell them hi from me.
We are grateful to hear from you and to know that things are going so well. We love you guys and you are always in our prayers. !
Love,
The De Vissers (Matt and Jan)
Report from Hainan
Here we are in the "Hawaii" of China - Hainan! It's much warmer than Chengdu even though it's been raining VERY hard since we arrived. They tell us that 2 different typhoons have passed nearby. The only effect we are feeling here is the rain.
I am at the Haikou city hospital (not military - has the same high rating as the military hospital in Chengdu) The nurses and doctors here are really good to me. There are 2 nurses who have been specifically assigned to me who speak pretty good English. Their names are Jo and Tina (a lot of Chinese give themselves an American name- which is the case with Tina) Jo was actually transferred from a different department specifically to help me. She told me that she knew I was coming and that she was very nervous because she had been asked to be my nurse. But she said, "Now that I know you I am not nervous anymore because you are very kind." I don't know that I'm so kind. I just smile a lot and say thank you a lot!
Jimmy and Jau-Fang hosted a dinner for us our first night in Hainan to introduce us to some of their friends who live here. As we sat at dinner I couldn't help but get a little emotional. Here are all these people who we don't even know who are willing to be at our beck and call. They are all willing to help us however they can. A couple of them have already taken Lon to get a cell phone and to get a wireless card for the computer. They are willing to drive us anywhere or help us in anyway. I am so touched by their kindness.
I have been undergoing a lot of tests at the hospital. Dr Shang and the specialist from Beijing will be here tomorrow. They are eager to get going too. They are very concerned about my situation.
Here's one funny story about the language difficulty. One of the lower level doctors was asking me questions about my symptoms. She speaks English well, but we soon discovered that not all things translate directly. I thought it was strange that the first question she asked me was, "Do you have bad breath?" I answered, "No," thinking what has that got to do with scleroderma? From there I decided to just tell her my symptoms instead of her asking strange questions that didn't apply to my situation. When I got to the part of telling her that I have a hard time breathing, she asked again, "How long have you had bad breath?" Then Lon, Jimmy and I started cracking up. How better to translate that I have a hard time breathing than to say that I have bad breath?! Now, mom - don't worry - there is a language barrier but Jimmy has been with us most of the time to translate. We will be okay.
So, Lon has learned a few Chinese phrases that he says to everyone we see. They are:
Nehow - hello
Wo I knee - I love you
Wo me tol fu - God bless you
shi she - thank you
Now, when we see someone who knows us they immediately say, "Wo me tol fu!" Everyone gets a pretty good laugh out of Lon.
Well, we love you! Thank you for your kind e-mails. We surely feel loved!
~Lon and Sheryl
I am at the Haikou city hospital (not military - has the same high rating as the military hospital in Chengdu) The nurses and doctors here are really good to me. There are 2 nurses who have been specifically assigned to me who speak pretty good English. Their names are Jo and Tina (a lot of Chinese give themselves an American name- which is the case with Tina) Jo was actually transferred from a different department specifically to help me. She told me that she knew I was coming and that she was very nervous because she had been asked to be my nurse. But she said, "Now that I know you I am not nervous anymore because you are very kind." I don't know that I'm so kind. I just smile a lot and say thank you a lot!
Jimmy and Jau-Fang hosted a dinner for us our first night in Hainan to introduce us to some of their friends who live here. As we sat at dinner I couldn't help but get a little emotional. Here are all these people who we don't even know who are willing to be at our beck and call. They are all willing to help us however they can. A couple of them have already taken Lon to get a cell phone and to get a wireless card for the computer. They are willing to drive us anywhere or help us in anyway. I am so touched by their kindness.
I have been undergoing a lot of tests at the hospital. Dr Shang and the specialist from Beijing will be here tomorrow. They are eager to get going too. They are very concerned about my situation.
Here's one funny story about the language difficulty. One of the lower level doctors was asking me questions about my symptoms. She speaks English well, but we soon discovered that not all things translate directly. I thought it was strange that the first question she asked me was, "Do you have bad breath?" I answered, "No," thinking what has that got to do with scleroderma? From there I decided to just tell her my symptoms instead of her asking strange questions that didn't apply to my situation. When I got to the part of telling her that I have a hard time breathing, she asked again, "How long have you had bad breath?" Then Lon, Jimmy and I started cracking up. How better to translate that I have a hard time breathing than to say that I have bad breath?! Now, mom - don't worry - there is a language barrier but Jimmy has been with us most of the time to translate. We will be okay.
So, Lon has learned a few Chinese phrases that he says to everyone we see. They are:
Nehow - hello
Wo I knee - I love you
Wo me tol fu - God bless you
shi she - thank you
Now, when we see someone who knows us they immediately say, "Wo me tol fu!" Everyone gets a pretty good laugh out of Lon.
Well, we love you! Thank you for your kind e-mails. We surely feel loved!
~Lon and Sheryl
Greetings from the Poret Family
Hi Sheryl and Lon,
Man, you need to be careful what you say or we will all be moving to China. I'm so glad that the people have keyed into how stupendously wonderful you are and truly are treating like a "Queen Bee!" Corrie and Steve had your kids over for dinner this weekend and their are doing well. Steve was thrilled to be feeding a group of hungry boys and has offered to give Shayna and your friend (Ellie?) cooking lessons. Is he great, or what?
The fall weather here for the past few days has been beyond beautiful, a real Indian Summer. Have you been able to find General Conference talks yet? We miss you terribly and are praying and anxious for you. I woke up this morning trying to count how many hours it will be until you get started with your treatment, but somehow got caught in thinking about the time-space continum, time-travel, etc, and by the time I got done I couldn't figure out if I was in today, yesterday, or tomorrow!!!!!
I love you. Take care.
~Judy Poret and family
Man, you need to be careful what you say or we will all be moving to China. I'm so glad that the people have keyed into how stupendously wonderful you are and truly are treating like a "Queen Bee!" Corrie and Steve had your kids over for dinner this weekend and their are doing well. Steve was thrilled to be feeding a group of hungry boys and has offered to give Shayna and your friend (Ellie?) cooking lessons. Is he great, or what?
The fall weather here for the past few days has been beyond beautiful, a real Indian Summer. Have you been able to find General Conference talks yet? We miss you terribly and are praying and anxious for you. I woke up this morning trying to count how many hours it will be until you get started with your treatment, but somehow got caught in thinking about the time-space continum, time-travel, etc, and by the time I got done I couldn't figure out if I was in today, yesterday, or tomorrow!!!!!
I love you. Take care.
~Judy Poret and family
Thanks from the Marchants
Dear Lon and Sheryl,
Thank you so much for providing all of the info on your continuing journey. Please know that you are thought of daily and we appreciate your faith and strength. One of my favorite quotes from Pres. Hinckley is that "Faith is the wellspring of activity. It is the root of hope and trust. It is this simple faith that all of us so much need . . . May faith be as a candle to guide us in the night by its light. May it go before us as a cloud in the day." Thank you for your exemplary lives and the living of this great principle. God bless you, dear friends.
We love you!
~Eric and Marie Marchant
Thank you so much for providing all of the info on your continuing journey. Please know that you are thought of daily and we appreciate your faith and strength. One of my favorite quotes from Pres. Hinckley is that "Faith is the wellspring of activity. It is the root of hope and trust. It is this simple faith that all of us so much need . . . May faith be as a candle to guide us in the night by its light. May it go before us as a cloud in the day." Thank you for your exemplary lives and the living of this great principle. God bless you, dear friends.
We love you!
~Eric and Marie Marchant
Hainan
We are about to leave for Hainan. Hooray! I am so ready to get on with this! I've been a little antsy because I feel like I've been just sitting around for the last few days. But I know I should be more patient. It took some time to get all of the arrangements in place for the transfer. Jimmy flew to Hainan last weekend to make sure all is well with the accommodations, etc. Jimmy had them put in a "western" toilet for me! (He said that the first one they put in was so small it looked like it was for a kindergartner! They have since put in a bigger one!) Also, they have put in a water heater for my bathroom so I will have hot water whenever I want it! Crazy huh?
So, last night the head nurse and her husband hosted a dinner for us at one of the nicest restaurants in Chengdu. It was the best food we've had since coming to China. It was actually very similar to fondue. There was a bunch of meat, veggies, and noodles and you could cook whatever you wanted in your own personal pot of boiling soup. It was yummy! The head nurse hugged me and said, "We are sisters!" She told Lon, "You are my brother!" Her husband said, "We must have known each other before this lifetime in order for all of us to come together as we have here." They were both so kind and I was so touched.
Also, the head nurse said that they had decided to charge me only for the tests that had been done at the hospital in Chengdu. I was not charged for the room or the refrigerator and microwave, etc that they had brought in especially for me. She said instead of charging me that their department will just buy the fridge and microwave for the staff to use. So basically what they charged me in total was approximately $400 U.S. dollars! I couldn't believe it! They have been so good to us!
Love you all!
~Sheryl
So, last night the head nurse and her husband hosted a dinner for us at one of the nicest restaurants in Chengdu. It was the best food we've had since coming to China. It was actually very similar to fondue. There was a bunch of meat, veggies, and noodles and you could cook whatever you wanted in your own personal pot of boiling soup. It was yummy! The head nurse hugged me and said, "We are sisters!" She told Lon, "You are my brother!" Her husband said, "We must have known each other before this lifetime in order for all of us to come together as we have here." They were both so kind and I was so touched.
Also, the head nurse said that they had decided to charge me only for the tests that had been done at the hospital in Chengdu. I was not charged for the room or the refrigerator and microwave, etc that they had brought in especially for me. She said instead of charging me that their department will just buy the fridge and microwave for the staff to use. So basically what they charged me in total was approximately $400 U.S. dollars! I couldn't believe it! They have been so good to us!
Love you all!
~Sheryl
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Response from Sheryl's Dad
Lon and Sheryl:
Thank you for your wonderful letter and for your eternal perspective. You, Sheryl and your entire family are providing a beautiful example and spiritual instruction that will lift and inspire us, our family and literally everyone with whom you are acquainted. We are grateful for your courage and for your determination to get the only treatment that shows much promise of healing and we are most grateful that you have been able to make arrangements through Jimmy Lu to be treated in China. We are also grateful to all members of the family and your friends who are stepping forward to help care for your younger kids at home. We understand that Travis and Weston are enjoying there time with Packer, Holland and Cannon. We wish that we could be helpful to them and to Brandon and Dallin during this time of need.
We are very concerned that the disease has progressed to Sheryl's lungs, liver and kidneys and this underscores the necessity of getting the stem cell treatment ASAP. We really admire Sheryl for being able to find the peace that she described in her message titled: "Whisperings of the Spirit." I shared that letter with Elder Spencer J. Condie, our Area President and he is praying for her return to full health along with us and most everyone in Tonga. His general conference address last Saturday was focused on our faith in god, promises of the Lord, and the fact that God remembers his promises to His children. We suspect that he wrote that talk in response to our conversations with him and his sensitivity to Sheryl's situation. Sheryl is an exceptional Child of God and she has been blessed with peace while in the midst of some of the most difficult of all challenges. Our most earnest and sincere prayer is that she will also receive the blessing of healing.
I think the initial schedule to begin extracting the stem cells is tomorrow, October 10th and we will be praying for Sheryl, for you and for the doctors. I understand that there was an option of being treated in Hainan (Sp) in Southern China rather than Chengdu. What was the decision? Also, is it possible to reach you by telephone? If so, please forward a number. We're in New Zealand until Saturday the 13th (your Friday the 12th) and then we return to Tonga and will be there through the temple dedication on November 4th and we would like call before we leave for Tonga.
~Elder David M. Brown
Thank you for your wonderful letter and for your eternal perspective. You, Sheryl and your entire family are providing a beautiful example and spiritual instruction that will lift and inspire us, our family and literally everyone with whom you are acquainted. We are grateful for your courage and for your determination to get the only treatment that shows much promise of healing and we are most grateful that you have been able to make arrangements through Jimmy Lu to be treated in China. We are also grateful to all members of the family and your friends who are stepping forward to help care for your younger kids at home. We understand that Travis and Weston are enjoying there time with Packer, Holland and Cannon. We wish that we could be helpful to them and to Brandon and Dallin during this time of need.
We are very concerned that the disease has progressed to Sheryl's lungs, liver and kidneys and this underscores the necessity of getting the stem cell treatment ASAP. We really admire Sheryl for being able to find the peace that she described in her message titled: "Whisperings of the Spirit." I shared that letter with Elder Spencer J. Condie, our Area President and he is praying for her return to full health along with us and most everyone in Tonga. His general conference address last Saturday was focused on our faith in god, promises of the Lord, and the fact that God remembers his promises to His children. We suspect that he wrote that talk in response to our conversations with him and his sensitivity to Sheryl's situation. Sheryl is an exceptional Child of God and she has been blessed with peace while in the midst of some of the most difficult of all challenges. Our most earnest and sincere prayer is that she will also receive the blessing of healing.
I think the initial schedule to begin extracting the stem cells is tomorrow, October 10th and we will be praying for Sheryl, for you and for the doctors. I understand that there was an option of being treated in Hainan (Sp) in Southern China rather than Chengdu. What was the decision? Also, is it possible to reach you by telephone? If so, please forward a number. We're in New Zealand until Saturday the 13th (your Friday the 12th) and then we return to Tonga and will be there through the temple dedication on November 4th and we would like call before we leave for Tonga.
~Elder David M. Brown
Love from Vaun & Anya
Lon and Sheryl, thank you for the beautiful messages and for the information. We're praying like crazy over here. We love you so much and our hearts are there with you.
~Vaun and Anya
~Vaun and Anya
A Beautiful Gift
One of my favorite scriptures is found in Doctrine & Covenants section 46:8 "Seek ye earnestly the best gifts, always remembering for what they are given."
I have always believed that the gifts the Lord gives to us are to build and strengthen His kingdom. Some people are great listeners- others are great athletes- some are talented in music and others are patient.
Sheryl and I view this disease (scleroderma) as a blessing truly a gift. I feel that Sheryl is a servant of Heavenly Father who is worthy enough to be blessed with this trial- even a disease that will bring her close to death before her immune system is re-born. As the next several weeks approach we are so grateful for all of your prayers.
We would never trade Sheryl's gift. It has brought us many blessings. It has given us a greater desire to search out the Lord＊s will in our lives. It has given our children opportunities to be more kind and eager to serve. It has given us the blessing of knowing that we have neighbors & friends who go out of their way to serve us and give of their time. How could we ever want to trade all the love and the charity (pure love of Christ) that we have felt from this experience?
We are grateful for those who have attended the temple and for the fasting and prayer in our behalf. In Alma chapter 17 vs 1-3 it lays out 4 things you and I need to do to stay close to the Lord.
1. Search the scriptures diligently
2. Much Prayer - labor in the spirit (vs 5)
3. Fasting
4. Service
How many of us have experienced these acts of FAITH?
Vs #9 The Lord would grant unto them a portion of his Spirit to go with them, (and abide with them) Vs #10 And they were comforted
Vs #11 Patient in long-suffering and afflictions, that ye may show forth good examples unto them in me.
How could anyone take this away from the sons of Mosiah and Alma- or from me, you and especially Sheryl.
Many of you have wondered why we had to go to China to get treatment. Well, in the USA the only way you can get stem cell treatment is if you are on your death bed and I mean your death bed. It is a last effort to save a life. Having organ transplants (lungs, kidney, liver or even heart) is not death- bed in the USA, You have to have the transplants go bad and no other hope in sight to get this treatment.
Why then doesn't the USA do stem cell? It's dangerous (20% of people die from the procedure.)
Now scleroderma has 3 types 1. localized 2. limited 3. diffused
Localized does not attack your internal organs- it will make the skin go tight and make it hard to do things with your hands (a real bad case of rheumatoid arthritis) and your legs. (Knees down- elbows down)
Limited is also knees down and elbows down but it can get more aggressive and attack the internal organs and harden them so they don＊t function any more and then you have to do a transplant or pass on.
Diffused covers the whole body on the outside and becomes very aggressive on the inside.
In March of this year while we were at the Mayo clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona Sheryl was in between limited and diffused. (Neck up- arms and legs.) About a month ago it progressed to diffused. This affects all of her body. She has a hard time swallowing and just functioning in normal daily life. We had an echo done upon arriving in China and it shows that it is now in her lungs, kidney, and liver. It becomes a challenge to keep her warm- for Raynoud's (which is like frost bite on your fingers) becomes a daily challenge. Waiting and watching as her organs fail is not in my DNA.
We went through the summer enjoying the children and sending our oldest of 5 sons, Jason, off on his mission to Brazil. I made the decision with Sheryl that as soon as the kids were in school I would find a place to get stem cell treatment. We were blessed to have Jimmy and Jua-fang Lu help us out.
We are now moving to Hainan, China - an island in the south (like Hawaii). It is warm there. We first came to Chengdu because that is where the best of the best doctors is for her disease. He has a very high success rate with doing this procedure. He will be accompanying us to Hainan along with a specialist from Beijing who is an expert also in Stem Cell separation and has the latest and greatest machine for doing the separation.
This starts on the 13th. There is a 3- 5 day procedure with three doctors doing the separation of the stem cells from the blood. Sheryl then goes in for chemo therapy and will be isolated (in the Box). After chemo reduces her immune system to zero, the selected stem cells will be re-implanted. She will be in the box (isolation) for 3 weeks approximately.
She will lose a lot of weight and all of her hair. After leaving isolation she will be in the hospital for another 2 to 3 weeks to get enough strength to leave the hospital. At that point we will go to our friends' resort (in Hainan) for 3 more months so she can have her immune system built up enough to travel back home to Provo. The concern is that flying home on a commercial airliner will subject her to more germs than her immune system can handle. We'd like her home for Christmas, but cannot risk her flying home in a plane with plenty of germs circulating through the cabin. So about March we will make the trip back home to Utah and once again be a family. Yea!!!!
Our spirits are as high as ever. We have perfect faith that all will be well. "Perfect love casteth away all fear." I have no fear, none. Miracles are real. God does live. His Son gave His all in the garden. Ministering angels will be with both of us as we are at our lowest points. They will be with us in our hour of need and will be with you in your struggles in your hour and need.
"Ask, and you shall receive, knock and it shall be opened unto you." We love all of you so much. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your prayers, fasting, faith and service.
"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
With hope and faith,
~Lon A. Wardrop
I have always believed that the gifts the Lord gives to us are to build and strengthen His kingdom. Some people are great listeners- others are great athletes- some are talented in music and others are patient.
Sheryl and I view this disease (scleroderma) as a blessing truly a gift. I feel that Sheryl is a servant of Heavenly Father who is worthy enough to be blessed with this trial- even a disease that will bring her close to death before her immune system is re-born. As the next several weeks approach we are so grateful for all of your prayers.
We would never trade Sheryl's gift. It has brought us many blessings. It has given us a greater desire to search out the Lord＊s will in our lives. It has given our children opportunities to be more kind and eager to serve. It has given us the blessing of knowing that we have neighbors & friends who go out of their way to serve us and give of their time. How could we ever want to trade all the love and the charity (pure love of Christ) that we have felt from this experience?
We are grateful for those who have attended the temple and for the fasting and prayer in our behalf. In Alma chapter 17 vs 1-3 it lays out 4 things you and I need to do to stay close to the Lord.
1. Search the scriptures diligently
2. Much Prayer - labor in the spirit (vs 5)
3. Fasting
4. Service
How many of us have experienced these acts of FAITH?
Vs #9 The Lord would grant unto them a portion of his Spirit to go with them, (and abide with them) Vs #10 And they were comforted
Vs #11 Patient in long-suffering and afflictions, that ye may show forth good examples unto them in me.
How could anyone take this away from the sons of Mosiah and Alma- or from me, you and especially Sheryl.
Many of you have wondered why we had to go to China to get treatment. Well, in the USA the only way you can get stem cell treatment is if you are on your death bed and I mean your death bed. It is a last effort to save a life. Having organ transplants (lungs, kidney, liver or even heart) is not death- bed in the USA, You have to have the transplants go bad and no other hope in sight to get this treatment.
Why then doesn't the USA do stem cell? It's dangerous (20% of people die from the procedure.)
Now scleroderma has 3 types 1. localized 2. limited 3. diffused
Localized does not attack your internal organs- it will make the skin go tight and make it hard to do things with your hands (a real bad case of rheumatoid arthritis) and your legs. (Knees down- elbows down)
Limited is also knees down and elbows down but it can get more aggressive and attack the internal organs and harden them so they don＊t function any more and then you have to do a transplant or pass on.
Diffused covers the whole body on the outside and becomes very aggressive on the inside.
In March of this year while we were at the Mayo clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona Sheryl was in between limited and diffused. (Neck up- arms and legs.) About a month ago it progressed to diffused. This affects all of her body. She has a hard time swallowing and just functioning in normal daily life. We had an echo done upon arriving in China and it shows that it is now in her lungs, kidney, and liver. It becomes a challenge to keep her warm- for Raynoud's (which is like frost bite on your fingers) becomes a daily challenge. Waiting and watching as her organs fail is not in my DNA.
We went through the summer enjoying the children and sending our oldest of 5 sons, Jason, off on his mission to Brazil. I made the decision with Sheryl that as soon as the kids were in school I would find a place to get stem cell treatment. We were blessed to have Jimmy and Jua-fang Lu help us out.
We are now moving to Hainan, China - an island in the south (like Hawaii). It is warm there. We first came to Chengdu because that is where the best of the best doctors is for her disease. He has a very high success rate with doing this procedure. He will be accompanying us to Hainan along with a specialist from Beijing who is an expert also in Stem Cell separation and has the latest and greatest machine for doing the separation.
This starts on the 13th. There is a 3- 5 day procedure with three doctors doing the separation of the stem cells from the blood. Sheryl then goes in for chemo therapy and will be isolated (in the Box). After chemo reduces her immune system to zero, the selected stem cells will be re-implanted. She will be in the box (isolation) for 3 weeks approximately.
She will lose a lot of weight and all of her hair. After leaving isolation she will be in the hospital for another 2 to 3 weeks to get enough strength to leave the hospital. At that point we will go to our friends' resort (in Hainan) for 3 more months so she can have her immune system built up enough to travel back home to Provo. The concern is that flying home on a commercial airliner will subject her to more germs than her immune system can handle. We'd like her home for Christmas, but cannot risk her flying home in a plane with plenty of germs circulating through the cabin. So about March we will make the trip back home to Utah and once again be a family. Yea!!!!
Our spirits are as high as ever. We have perfect faith that all will be well. "Perfect love casteth away all fear." I have no fear, none. Miracles are real. God does live. His Son gave His all in the garden. Ministering angels will be with both of us as we are at our lowest points. They will be with us in our hour of need and will be with you in your struggles in your hour and need.
"Ask, and you shall receive, knock and it shall be opened unto you." We love all of you so much. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your prayers, fasting, faith and service.
"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
With hope and faith,
~Lon A. Wardrop
Comment from Sarah & Ty
We want to send all of our love to you Sheryl and Lon. Thank you for the email letting us know the Lord is directing your ways and we can all TRUST HIM. Your faith is outstanding and we feel blessed because of it. We love you so much and pray for your safety. All the blessings of the Lord to you this week as you start treatment. XOXO!!
~ Sarah & Ty
Love from the Marchant Family
Dearest Brown Family, Lon and Sheryl and family,
We think of you every single day. We miss you so much, but we have so much hope and faith for you. We were thrilled to be able to fast for you last Sunday. It was a very spiritual experience for our entire family. What an honor and a privilege to be able to be a part of that.
As we listened to General Conference this weekend, our hearts were touched as we were reminded of the great love our Heavenly Father has for each one of us. Of the great and incomprehensible love that our Savior, Jesus Christ, has for us.
We hope that you feel that love every day and know that they are with you. Please know of our great love for you and for the appreciation we have of your sincere and humble example. Of your willingness to submit your will to that of the Father and trust Him completely. Thank you for all that you mean to us.
We count your friendship as one of Heavenly Father's greatest blessings to us. Our prayers and thoughts are with you always. We are always just a phone call away, and we are willing to do anything to help in anyway.
All our Love.
~The Marchant Family
We think of you every single day. We miss you so much, but we have so much hope and faith for you. We were thrilled to be able to fast for you last Sunday. It was a very spiritual experience for our entire family. What an honor and a privilege to be able to be a part of that.
As we listened to General Conference this weekend, our hearts were touched as we were reminded of the great love our Heavenly Father has for each one of us. Of the great and incomprehensible love that our Savior, Jesus Christ, has for us.
We hope that you feel that love every day and know that they are with you. Please know of our great love for you and for the appreciation we have of your sincere and humble example. Of your willingness to submit your will to that of the Father and trust Him completely. Thank you for all that you mean to us.
We count your friendship as one of Heavenly Father's greatest blessings to us. Our prayers and thoughts are with you always. We are always just a phone call away, and we are willing to do anything to help in anyway.
All our Love.
~The Marchant Family
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Note from Sheryl to the little guys
Dear Travis, Weston, Packer, Holland, Cannon, and Harper,
Hello!
How are you wonderful kids doing? We love you so much! We hope you are going to have a fun weekend together. We just wanted to tell you that we were able to go see some Giant Panda's! They are so cute! You would've loved seeing them! We'll have to show you the pictures! Also, there are red panda's that look like racoons! It is very pretty here in China. You would like it.
The sky is overcast most of the time. The Chinese say that when the sun comes out all the dogs start barking because they're afraid. (They don't see the sun very often!)
Well, be nice to each other. Be sure to share and help each other out.
We love you!
Mom and Dad
Aunt Sheryl and Uncle Lon
Hello!
How are you wonderful kids doing? We love you so much! We hope you are going to have a fun weekend together. We just wanted to tell you that we were able to go see some Giant Panda's! They are so cute! You would've loved seeing them! We'll have to show you the pictures! Also, there are red panda's that look like racoons! It is very pretty here in China. You would like it.
The sky is overcast most of the time. The Chinese say that when the sun comes out all the dogs start barking because they're afraid. (They don't see the sun very often!)
Well, be nice to each other. Be sure to share and help each other out.
We love you!
Mom and Dad
Aunt Sheryl and Uncle Lon
Brad & Celeste Send Their Love
Sheryl and Lon
As we listened to conference today, our hearts and minds were continually reminded of both of you and the love of our Savior has for both of you. It is amazing how many lives have been touched and blessed by your sweet spirit and trusting faith. We are surely amazed that the Nurses and Doctors there in China can feel that there is something different and special about the two of you. We love both of you so much and pray for your continued safety. Lon, hang in there- you’re an amazing husband with great strength. One of Celeste’s favorite quotes is “alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” What a great example of that quote the two of you make.
~Brad & Celeste
As we listened to conference today, our hearts and minds were continually reminded of both of you and the love of our Savior has for both of you. It is amazing how many lives have been touched and blessed by your sweet spirit and trusting faith. We are surely amazed that the Nurses and Doctors there in China can feel that there is something different and special about the two of you. We love both of you so much and pray for your continued safety. Lon, hang in there- you’re an amazing husband with great strength. One of Celeste’s favorite quotes is “alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” What a great example of that quote the two of you make.
~Brad & Celeste
Greetings from Judy Poret and family
Dearest Sheryl, Lon, the Brown Family, and Jimmy and Jau in China,'
I have just found my way to the computer for this week and have finished reading all of the messages you have sent. The Spirit of the Lord is so strong right now that I hesitate to say anything. Anything I could say would seem so small compared the incomprehensible grandeur of God, Our Eternal Father and His love for His children, as Sheryl has expressed it.
Sheryl and Lon, we love and miss you.
~Judy Poret and family
I have just found my way to the computer for this week and have finished reading all of the messages you have sent. The Spirit of the Lord is so strong right now that I hesitate to say anything. Anything I could say would seem so small compared the incomprehensible grandeur of God, Our Eternal Father and His love for His children, as Sheryl has expressed it.
Sheryl and Lon, we love and miss you.
~Judy Poret and family
From the Sorensens in New Zealand
Thank you for the update on Sheryl. One of the great mysteries of the universe is why? I wish that I could answer that with regards to Sheryl but no words I believe can adequately answer this plea. And if there was an answer it may not bring comfort but instead result in more questions. The only thing that is constant in all of life (and death for that matter) is the reality that God lives and is in control. That He knows our suffering and concerns. NOt only that He knows but that he has experienced what we feel as he watched helplessly as His son suffered unjustly and then died knowing he had the power to stop it all. From this experience he can succour us. It is also to know that families are eternal. permanently sealed for time and all eternity and that whatever may come glory will be to God always.
I have always drawn comfort from the words of Job who after he had lost everything, includng his family to death and illness and all he had left to give was his life he said "though He slay me yet will I trust him."
It is that kind of faith that separates us from the natural man. Faith of that magnitude is not born out of a life filled with ease and devoid of struggle. Faith of that kind comes from challenges and inspite of the challenges still going back for more. My dad struggled when he was dying with the question why? I don't believe he received his answer until just prior to departing this life when he said these last words "God is good". Notwithstanding his questioning of God over the last years of his life - it was when he was at the threshold of beholding him that I believe that answer came.
Maybe our answers to these questions may also have to wait until we get to that threshold. However, in life we can have the same courage that Sheryl exhibits in her steadfastness in spite of her challenge. She will not be overcome. And if that is the message then what a great lesson we all can learn from her.
I will put her name on the prayer roll this weekend. We express our love to you both and your family. If the Lord had intended for you to be home with Sheryl then you would not be here. For whatever reason you are here and she is now in China we know not except that God is in control and we are his servants.
~Hans Sorensen
I have always drawn comfort from the words of Job who after he had lost everything, includng his family to death and illness and all he had left to give was his life he said "though He slay me yet will I trust him."
It is that kind of faith that separates us from the natural man. Faith of that magnitude is not born out of a life filled with ease and devoid of struggle. Faith of that kind comes from challenges and inspite of the challenges still going back for more. My dad struggled when he was dying with the question why? I don't believe he received his answer until just prior to departing this life when he said these last words "God is good". Notwithstanding his questioning of God over the last years of his life - it was when he was at the threshold of beholding him that I believe that answer came.
Maybe our answers to these questions may also have to wait until we get to that threshold. However, in life we can have the same courage that Sheryl exhibits in her steadfastness in spite of her challenge. She will not be overcome. And if that is the message then what a great lesson we all can learn from her.
I will put her name on the prayer roll this weekend. We express our love to you both and your family. If the Lord had intended for you to be home with Sheryl then you would not be here. For whatever reason you are here and she is now in China we know not except that God is in control and we are his servants.
~Hans Sorensen
Response from "Whisperings of the Spirit"
Sheryl:
Thank you for sharing your "Whisperings of the Spirit." As always, you are absolutely right! None of us know what our future will be but we continue to do all that we can to assure that we are worthy of the Lord's choicest blessings. If we truly trust Him, we will be blessed for all eternity.
You're a wonderful daughter and we love you so very much and we continue to learn from your beautiful and courageous example. You are also a daughter of God and he loves you as we do. Thank you for who you are and for what you continue to teach all of us. We will continue to pray for your full return to health and for your peace and happiness and for your family. We also join you in having complete trust in the Lord.
Love,
~Dad and Mom
Thank you for sharing your "Whisperings of the Spirit." As always, you are absolutely right! None of us know what our future will be but we continue to do all that we can to assure that we are worthy of the Lord's choicest blessings. If we truly trust Him, we will be blessed for all eternity.
You're a wonderful daughter and we love you so very much and we continue to learn from your beautiful and courageous example. You are also a daughter of God and he loves you as we do. Thank you for who you are and for what you continue to teach all of us. We will continue to pray for your full return to health and for your peace and happiness and for your family. We also join you in having complete trust in the Lord.
Love,
~Dad and Mom
Note from Clayne and Elouise Jensen
Dear Lon and Sheryl:
What a great letter with all the explanations as to what is happening to Sheryl. It does sound quite encouraging with all the attention and maybe a doctor accompanying you to another location that is warm. That wouldn't happen here.
Life goes on as usual. Meals are being brought to your home. It is conference this week end so all is calm on the church front. I understand a lot of tennis is going on in Salt Lake - I believe it is the girls tournaments. There is a big storm forcast for tomorrow so maybe tennis will experience bad weather.
Thank you for the messages.
~Clayne and Elouise
What a great letter with all the explanations as to what is happening to Sheryl. It does sound quite encouraging with all the attention and maybe a doctor accompanying you to another location that is warm. That wouldn't happen here.
Life goes on as usual. Meals are being brought to your home. It is conference this week end so all is calm on the church front. I understand a lot of tennis is going on in Salt Lake - I believe it is the girls tournaments. There is a big storm forcast for tomorrow so maybe tennis will experience bad weather.
Thank you for the messages.
~Clayne and Elouise
Thanks to Jimmy and Jau-Fang
Dear Jimmy and Jau-Fang:
I want to express my love and gratitude for all you have done for sweet Sheryl. I am her mother, MelRae Brown. I am having a difficult time with her illness, especially since her Father David and I are serving a mission in the Islands of the Pacific and New Zealand. Thankfully we are very busy which helps take our minds off Sheryl and her illness. It is wonderful friends like you who are helping to bring peace and comfort to us at this time. We have tried to leave our mission to go to Sheryl and her children, but she will NOT let us. She has told us, "I need a miracle. And if you are serving a mission, I will be greatly blessed."
We will never forget you and your great kindness to our family. May the Lord bless you and bring you much joy and happiness.
We love you,
Elder David and Sister MelRae Brown
Directors of Public Affairs
New Zealand/Pacific Islands Ares
I want to express my love and gratitude for all you have done for sweet Sheryl. I am her mother, MelRae Brown. I am having a difficult time with her illness, especially since her Father David and I are serving a mission in the Islands of the Pacific and New Zealand. Thankfully we are very busy which helps take our minds off Sheryl and her illness. It is wonderful friends like you who are helping to bring peace and comfort to us at this time. We have tried to leave our mission to go to Sheryl and her children, but she will NOT let us. She has told us, "I need a miracle. And if you are serving a mission, I will be greatly blessed."
We will never forget you and your great kindness to our family. May the Lord bless you and bring you much joy and happiness.
We love you,
Elder David and Sister MelRae Brown
Directors of Public Affairs
New Zealand/Pacific Islands Ares
Response from Jimmy and Jau-Fang
Hello, this is Jau-Fang, Jimmy's wife. Thank you for the lovely letter It is our honor and blessing to have Lon and Sheryl with us at times like this. I have learned so much from both of them. They have shown us so much courage and grace , we should be the one to thank them for giving us the time to be with them.
May God Bless us all.
Sincerely yours
~Jimmy and Jau-Fang
May God Bless us all.
Sincerely yours
~Jimmy and Jau-Fang
Friday, October 5, 2007
Whisperings of the Spirit
Many of you have expressed concern about the treatment I will be receiving. To be honest, I have had concerns of my own. I want to share an experience I had that has brought me peace and I hope it will also bring you peace.
About two weeks before leaving for China (before I realized that the doctors were actually planning to do the stem cell procedure) I received a powerful impression. Into my heart and mind I heard the words, "Trust me." As I thought about what it truly means to trust in the Lord it was as if a huge burden was removed from my shoulders. My cares and concerns were lifted. My outlook on life suddenly became beautiful and simple --as it was when I was a child. I felt love for everyone.
I had felt concerns for my children who I would be leaving for so long. But I could feel the Lord saying, "Trust me."
I had felt concerns over the treatment I would be receiving in China. But I felt the Lord's words, "Trust me."
I will take the Lord at His word! What a simple, beautiful way of living--by trusting fully in the God of this world. All flesh is in His hands. Truly trusting in Him is the only sure way. Worrying and fretting about things will do nothing to improve a situation. But trusting in the Lord means everything!
Before Jason left on his mission I gave him my favorite scripture which is:
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5,6
It's funny, this has been my favorite scripture since high school and yet I feel like I am just beginning to understand it. Truly the Lord is merciful! Truly He loves us! Truly He gives us what we need in the very hour that we need it! And yes, angels are watching over us day by day!
~Sheryl
About two weeks before leaving for China (before I realized that the doctors were actually planning to do the stem cell procedure) I received a powerful impression. Into my heart and mind I heard the words, "Trust me." As I thought about what it truly means to trust in the Lord it was as if a huge burden was removed from my shoulders. My cares and concerns were lifted. My outlook on life suddenly became beautiful and simple --as it was when I was a child. I felt love for everyone.
I had felt concerns for my children who I would be leaving for so long. But I could feel the Lord saying, "Trust me."
I had felt concerns over the treatment I would be receiving in China. But I felt the Lord's words, "Trust me."
I will take the Lord at His word! What a simple, beautiful way of living--by trusting fully in the God of this world. All flesh is in His hands. Truly trusting in Him is the only sure way. Worrying and fretting about things will do nothing to improve a situation. But trusting in the Lord means everything!
Before Jason left on his mission I gave him my favorite scripture which is:
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5,6
It's funny, this has been my favorite scripture since high school and yet I feel like I am just beginning to understand it. Truly the Lord is merciful! Truly He loves us! Truly He gives us what we need in the very hour that we need it! And yes, angels are watching over us day by day!
~Sheryl
Hi Wonderful Kids!
Dear Travis, Weston, Packer, Holland, Cannon, and Harper,
Hello! How are you wonderful kids doing? We love you so much!
We hope you are going to have a fun weekend together. We just wanted to tell you that we were able to go see some Giant Panda's! They are so cute! You would've loved seeing them! We'll have to show you the pictures! Also, there are red panda's that look like racoons! It is very pretty here in China. You would like it.
The sky is overcast most of the time. The Chinese say that when the sun comes out all the dogs start barking because they're afraid. (They don't see the sun very often!) Well, be nice to each other. Be sure to share and help each other out.
We love you!
Mom and Dad
Aunt Sheryl and Uncle Lon
Hello! How are you wonderful kids doing? We love you so much!
We hope you are going to have a fun weekend together. We just wanted to tell you that we were able to go see some Giant Panda's! They are so cute! You would've loved seeing them! We'll have to show you the pictures! Also, there are red panda's that look like racoons! It is very pretty here in China. You would like it.
The sky is overcast most of the time. The Chinese say that when the sun comes out all the dogs start barking because they're afraid. (They don't see the sun very often!) Well, be nice to each other. Be sure to share and help each other out.
We love you!
Mom and Dad
Aunt Sheryl and Uncle Lon
Thursday, October 4, 2007
The Chinese People
We have felt so loved by the people here. Everyone we have met has been caring and eager to help us. The head nurse even took us to her house to get us some food because she was afraid I wasn't eating enough! The Chinese people are kind, loving, and humble. We can't help but think that when missionary work is finally able to go forth in this country that there will be a flood of converts. It will be amazing!
~Sheryl
~Sheryl
A Funny Restaurant Story
One night one of the young doctors took us to dinner at a Chinese restaurant near the hospital. She was being so kind. We asked her to share the food with us, but she would only eat what she could see we didn't like. During our meal there were 4 teenage girls sitting in the corner staring at us and giggling. (We are the only Caucasians for miles around. Whenever we go out everyone stares at us! They don't just glance, they stare for a long time!) The girls were workers at the restaurant and were organizing the chopsticks. Once we were finished eating, Lon walked right over to their table, pulled up a chair, sat down and began organizing chopsticks with them! This caused the girls to break into laughter! They couldn't believe that he would actually come and sit with them. The doctor frantically plugged words into her English conversion calculator and finally said, "Your husband has humor!" I had to agree with her! As we walked back to the hospital she grabbed my arm and said, "I like you, you are good." I think she had other feelings about Lon - he was beyond her control!
~Sheryl
~Sheryl
A few more details from Sheryl
Our plane arrived in Chengdu at 2:30 am Friday and we were met at the airport by Jimmy & Jau Fang and 2 of the doctors who will be working on my case. Our flight was 2 1/2 hours late and they'd all been waiting for us! They transported us directly to the hospital in a military vehicle reserved for VIP's. The head nurse for my department is married to a high ranking soldier who was able to arrange for the military transport. As we traveled Jimmy and Jau Fang kept apologizing for the condition of the accommodations. They had tried to get us "General's" quarters, but had been turned down because I would be a threat to national security as they had not been able to do a background check on me! It's true the hospital is old and the room isn't that great, but it's okay. There are 2 twin beds (so Lon can stay in the room with me), a couch, a chair, and coffee table. There is also a fridge and microwave in the room. The only real problem is the bathroom! It is traditional Chinese (I don't know why?) Anyway, the "toilet" (if you can call it that) is a hole in the ground. The shower is not enclosed so when you use it the entire bathroom gets wet and then the water drains down the toilet hole! There are occasional spurts of hot water from the shower, but not enough to last a whole shower!
So, that's the deal with the room.
I like my doctor, Dr Shang. He's the chief doctor in the hematology department. He's the most experienced in China with stem cell treatment for scleroderma. He is also kind hearted. On my first morning at the hospital I met with him. (He speaks a little English - very slloowwllyy) He asked if we had any Chinese money yet. We told him we had not had a chance to get to a bank yet. He told me that in order to be admitted to the hospital I needed to pay $500 Chinese Dollars (about $65 US). When he realized we did not have Chinese money yet, he took out his own wallet, pulled out $500 Chinese Dollars, gave the money to his assistant, and told him to go register me.
I like my head nurse, Chang Lee. She is doing everything she can to make me happy and comfortable. Everytime I say "thank you" she answers, "Not at all, not at all!" She is so funny! She always takes me by the arm and looks right into my face and just starts talking like crazy! She just keeps talking and talking as if I can understand her and like she expects me to answer at any moment. But it sounds like some crazy Chinese language to me!
There are many other nurses and doctors who are also helping on my case. They are taking turns taking us out of the hospital to get meals. They are concerned that I won't like the hospital meals! The first day they took us to KFC and insisted on ordering and paying. Afterwards, we told them we like to eat vegetables and whole grains. So the next day the head nurse took us to a farmer's restaurant. I am actually adjusting to the food. Soup - it's what's for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! Yesterday, we actually asked for scrambled eggs and the cook made them - no seasonings - just green peppers and eggs. Basically they eat very healthy here - lots of veggies - very little meat. Some things are unusual! I just can't eat a fish with the head still attached and the eyes looking right at me! They are mostly concerned that my body recover from travel, that I get my rest, and that I'm eating well before they start in on the treatment.
This is kind of the plan for treatment: for the first two weeks I will be going through tests and taking Chinese herbal medications. On approximately Oct 10th they will start the procedure.
For about the first week they will be collecting the stem cells from my body. After this process I will receive chemotherapy to basically kill off my immune system. During this time I will be put in an isolation room for 3 weeks. No one can come in my room except the doctor - any germ could be life threatening. After this time the stem cells will be re-implanted into my body. At this point it will be like the re-birth of my immune system. (Of course, this is not a technical explanation - go to google and search to find more info - this is just a nut shell)
Anyway, there is discussion that I may be moved to a different hospital. They are concerned about my recovery and want me to go to a warm place for recovery. They don't want me to fly right after treatment because of all the germs on planes. So, they are considering having me fly to a hospital in Hailan (which is an island in the south of China). They will do the procedure there and then I can stay there for recovery. I think this is a good idea. My doctor would come with me. An expert from Beijing will also come to help with the treatment. The head doctor at the hospital in Hailan is eager for me to come. So we'll see what happens. Bascially, it's looking like I'm going to be in China for quite awhile.
Love you all!
~Sheryl
So, that's the deal with the room.
I like my doctor, Dr Shang. He's the chief doctor in the hematology department. He's the most experienced in China with stem cell treatment for scleroderma. He is also kind hearted. On my first morning at the hospital I met with him. (He speaks a little English - very slloowwllyy) He asked if we had any Chinese money yet. We told him we had not had a chance to get to a bank yet. He told me that in order to be admitted to the hospital I needed to pay $500 Chinese Dollars (about $65 US). When he realized we did not have Chinese money yet, he took out his own wallet, pulled out $500 Chinese Dollars, gave the money to his assistant, and told him to go register me.
I like my head nurse, Chang Lee. She is doing everything she can to make me happy and comfortable. Everytime I say "thank you" she answers, "Not at all, not at all!" She is so funny! She always takes me by the arm and looks right into my face and just starts talking like crazy! She just keeps talking and talking as if I can understand her and like she expects me to answer at any moment. But it sounds like some crazy Chinese language to me!
There are many other nurses and doctors who are also helping on my case. They are taking turns taking us out of the hospital to get meals. They are concerned that I won't like the hospital meals! The first day they took us to KFC and insisted on ordering and paying. Afterwards, we told them we like to eat vegetables and whole grains. So the next day the head nurse took us to a farmer's restaurant. I am actually adjusting to the food. Soup - it's what's for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! Yesterday, we actually asked for scrambled eggs and the cook made them - no seasonings - just green peppers and eggs. Basically they eat very healthy here - lots of veggies - very little meat. Some things are unusual! I just can't eat a fish with the head still attached and the eyes looking right at me! They are mostly concerned that my body recover from travel, that I get my rest, and that I'm eating well before they start in on the treatment.
This is kind of the plan for treatment: for the first two weeks I will be going through tests and taking Chinese herbal medications. On approximately Oct 10th they will start the procedure.
For about the first week they will be collecting the stem cells from my body. After this process I will receive chemotherapy to basically kill off my immune system. During this time I will be put in an isolation room for 3 weeks. No one can come in my room except the doctor - any germ could be life threatening. After this time the stem cells will be re-implanted into my body. At this point it will be like the re-birth of my immune system. (Of course, this is not a technical explanation - go to google and search to find more info - this is just a nut shell)
Anyway, there is discussion that I may be moved to a different hospital. They are concerned about my recovery and want me to go to a warm place for recovery. They don't want me to fly right after treatment because of all the germs on planes. So, they are considering having me fly to a hospital in Hailan (which is an island in the south of China). They will do the procedure there and then I can stay there for recovery. I think this is a good idea. My doctor would come with me. An expert from Beijing will also come to help with the treatment. The head doctor at the hospital in Hailan is eager for me to come. So we'll see what happens. Bascially, it's looking like I'm going to be in China for quite awhile.
Love you all!
~Sheryl
News from Brazil (Elder Wardrop)
Hey family. How are you all doing? So i just heard crazy new. NO MORE POUCH LETTERS IN BRASIL. Dont know why but it just happened for some reason. So dont send any more letters pouch. Only mission ties, or directly to the mission, or email.
Anyway dad thank you for sending those vitamins to me. It is crazy. I ran out the day before i got the package and then i was restocked that quick. Also those almonds were awesome. I loved them. Also, mom thank you so much for loving me so much and continually sending me cookies. They are greatly appreciated. However, i dont know how to phrase this but, you cant send them to me anymore. Not that i dont want them but once im out of the ctm i wont be able to get them anymore. Maybe you already knew that but just wanted to let you know. It was amazing while it lasted though, thank you.
So jordan and shayna. Whats up. Jordan how was the b-day man. Hopefully you guys were able to take a break and have a fun time. Thats a bummer about the place in vegas. Shayna those real estate classes sound sweet. I cant wait to do some of that stuff with you. Also, one reason why devin durrant might sound familiar is because one of the top rookies in the nba right now is kevin durrant who i am sure you have heard dallin and i talking about. But those stories are sweet.
Mom you were wondering what i spoke on last week. It was pray always and study the scrips. Dad i really feel bad about the letter you tried to write through mission ties but didnt go through. I know what you are talking about. It is lame. My advice is to write the letter first in microsoft word and save it and then copy and paste into mission ties or email. That is what i do every time because so many elders have lost their letters that way.
So this is the last week at the ctm. It is awesome. It has gone by so fast. So cool story about proselyting. It seems as if bums like getting up into my face. So the bus dropped off our district in the middle of sao paulo and within 5 minutes i had a bum up in my face wanting to fight me. He was yelling at me saying that i was stealing stuff from him and he kept pounding his chest saying he wanted to fight me. My comp was like 10 feet away talking to another guy. This guy yelling at me was obviously crazy so i just smiled and was just saying like alright maybe later. I couldnt keep from laughing dont know why. I mean this guy was furious and really wanted to fight me. I had no fear. This guy was like 5'8". There was nothing he could do. Thats why it is so funny. Well also i talked to this one guy for about 20 minutes trying to get him to take a pass along card. He said he believed in the bible but doesnt believe christ is living. How does that work? So i tried convincing him otherwise but was unsuccessful. Then i talked to two other guys for about 40 minutes. Guarantee if i kept with them for a week and a half they would be baptized. Gave them a bom and pass along cards. I cant believe thinking back on it how i could have talked that long to someone only in port. Crazy.
Well anyway if you are still reading this week i suggest john 2-4. sorry i forgot last week. Meant to say moroni 7.
One last thing. In the sao paulo temple they have tons of awesome mosaics. One of joseph smith first vison, christ coming to the americas and arnold friebergs paintings of alma baptizing at waters of mormon and john the baptist baptizing jesus are in the baptismal font area. And just to tell you these mosaics are all huge. About 12 feet by 8 feet. They are so amazing.
Love you all. Next week ill be writing from goiania.
Elder wardrop
Trav and west- way to go on the awesome soccer season. You guys are studs
Brandon- hope you are healing quickly. I pray for you every night Dallin- hope all is well. Work harder in schoolShayna and jordan- good luck with schoolEveryone else- love you all and thanks for the letters and support.
Anyway dad thank you for sending those vitamins to me. It is crazy. I ran out the day before i got the package and then i was restocked that quick. Also those almonds were awesome. I loved them. Also, mom thank you so much for loving me so much and continually sending me cookies. They are greatly appreciated. However, i dont know how to phrase this but, you cant send them to me anymore. Not that i dont want them but once im out of the ctm i wont be able to get them anymore. Maybe you already knew that but just wanted to let you know. It was amazing while it lasted though, thank you.
So jordan and shayna. Whats up. Jordan how was the b-day man. Hopefully you guys were able to take a break and have a fun time. Thats a bummer about the place in vegas. Shayna those real estate classes sound sweet. I cant wait to do some of that stuff with you. Also, one reason why devin durrant might sound familiar is because one of the top rookies in the nba right now is kevin durrant who i am sure you have heard dallin and i talking about. But those stories are sweet.
Mom you were wondering what i spoke on last week. It was pray always and study the scrips. Dad i really feel bad about the letter you tried to write through mission ties but didnt go through. I know what you are talking about. It is lame. My advice is to write the letter first in microsoft word and save it and then copy and paste into mission ties or email. That is what i do every time because so many elders have lost their letters that way.
So this is the last week at the ctm. It is awesome. It has gone by so fast. So cool story about proselyting. It seems as if bums like getting up into my face. So the bus dropped off our district in the middle of sao paulo and within 5 minutes i had a bum up in my face wanting to fight me. He was yelling at me saying that i was stealing stuff from him and he kept pounding his chest saying he wanted to fight me. My comp was like 10 feet away talking to another guy. This guy yelling at me was obviously crazy so i just smiled and was just saying like alright maybe later. I couldnt keep from laughing dont know why. I mean this guy was furious and really wanted to fight me. I had no fear. This guy was like 5'8". There was nothing he could do. Thats why it is so funny. Well also i talked to this one guy for about 20 minutes trying to get him to take a pass along card. He said he believed in the bible but doesnt believe christ is living. How does that work? So i tried convincing him otherwise but was unsuccessful. Then i talked to two other guys for about 40 minutes. Guarantee if i kept with them for a week and a half they would be baptized. Gave them a bom and pass along cards. I cant believe thinking back on it how i could have talked that long to someone only in port. Crazy.
Well anyway if you are still reading this week i suggest john 2-4. sorry i forgot last week. Meant to say moroni 7.
One last thing. In the sao paulo temple they have tons of awesome mosaics. One of joseph smith first vison, christ coming to the americas and arnold friebergs paintings of alma baptizing at waters of mormon and john the baptist baptizing jesus are in the baptismal font area. And just to tell you these mosaics are all huge. About 12 feet by 8 feet. They are so amazing.
Love you all. Next week ill be writing from goiania.
Elder wardrop
Trav and west- way to go on the awesome soccer season. You guys are studs
Brandon- hope you are healing quickly. I pray for you every night Dallin- hope all is well. Work harder in schoolShayna and jordan- good luck with schoolEveryone else- love you all and thanks for the letters and support.
Reply to Elder Wardrop from G&G Brown
Hello Elder Wardrop:
Wow! You are certainly being bold and "opening your mouth". You will be a terrific missionary. Hopefully you will be able to find people who are not bums and not drunk. I know you will. How exciting that you will soon be in your real mission territory. We pray that the people there are seeking the truth and have open hearts.
We are here in Tonga for 2 more months. The big moment came on Tuesday, September 25th. Our Temple here is finished and we started the Open House for the VIP's. At 8:00 AM the KING arrived, also the Queen Mother and the Princess. No one could believe that the KING was up and dressed in an expensive suit and sober. (He is not LDS) We had a short Devotional and the KING spoke for about 6 minutes. It was a first for him and it was a great talk. Our area President, Spencer Condie also spoke.
We were quite worried that no one would come because it had rained all night and was still blasting down with terrible winds. I think it was a typhoon. We pled with the Lord, but the rain and wind never stopped all day. But big crowds of VIP's came and told us that the Tongans believe that when the Lord sends rain on a special occasion it means the Lord is blessing them with His great love. And since it hadn't rained in several months, the Tongans knew this really was a great event to bring all this rain. The rain kept up all week. We still set attendance records.
During the first 5 full days of Open House, we have had 12,562 visitors and 475 missionary referrals (all want the missionaries and have listed their preferred day and time). Our mission president, President McMurray is "dancing in the streets" he is so happy. These numbers are amazing because there are only 60,000 people on the entire island. We have 3 weeks to get them all here to the Temple. It is a very exciting time. Your Grandpa is responsible for everything about the Temple, except the actual physical building. He has done an amazing job and everyone here from the King on down think he is a miracle worker. AND HE IS!
We love our mission and we know you do too. I pray that there will be 475 people in Brasil who are looking for YOU and ready to listen and feel the spirit. GO FOR IT! YOU ARE THE BEST!!!
All our love,
Elder and Sister Brown
Wow! You are certainly being bold and "opening your mouth". You will be a terrific missionary. Hopefully you will be able to find people who are not bums and not drunk. I know you will. How exciting that you will soon be in your real mission territory. We pray that the people there are seeking the truth and have open hearts.
We are here in Tonga for 2 more months. The big moment came on Tuesday, September 25th. Our Temple here is finished and we started the Open House for the VIP's. At 8:00 AM the KING arrived, also the Queen Mother and the Princess. No one could believe that the KING was up and dressed in an expensive suit and sober. (He is not LDS) We had a short Devotional and the KING spoke for about 6 minutes. It was a first for him and it was a great talk. Our area President, Spencer Condie also spoke.
We were quite worried that no one would come because it had rained all night and was still blasting down with terrible winds. I think it was a typhoon. We pled with the Lord, but the rain and wind never stopped all day. But big crowds of VIP's came and told us that the Tongans believe that when the Lord sends rain on a special occasion it means the Lord is blessing them with His great love. And since it hadn't rained in several months, the Tongans knew this really was a great event to bring all this rain. The rain kept up all week. We still set attendance records.
During the first 5 full days of Open House, we have had 12,562 visitors and 475 missionary referrals (all want the missionaries and have listed their preferred day and time). Our mission president, President McMurray is "dancing in the streets" he is so happy. These numbers are amazing because there are only 60,000 people on the entire island. We have 3 weeks to get them all here to the Temple. It is a very exciting time. Your Grandpa is responsible for everything about the Temple, except the actual physical building. He has done an amazing job and everyone here from the King on down think he is a miracle worker. AND HE IS!
We love our mission and we know you do too. I pray that there will be 475 people in Brasil who are looking for YOU and ready to listen and feel the spirit. GO FOR IT! YOU ARE THE BEST!!!
All our love,
Elder and Sister Brown
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Gratitude to Jimmy
I got Jimmy's e-mail address from Lon & Shery and thought those who would like to express their gratitude to him for the many things he has been doing for Lon & Sheryl could send him a note.
jlotg@126.com
~Tami Wardrop
jlotg@126.com
~Tami Wardrop
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