Jack Hager

Two-and-a-half years ago my world was rocked a bit through a diagnosis of a type of blood cancer. I had never heard of multiple myeloma, but now I discovered I had it.

I was told it is “not curable but treatable.” Life span was not discussed. Began various treatments and those continue, though modified.

Part of me doesn’t even want to talk about my cancer…since mine is so minor compared to so many friends/acquaintances that are fighting some type of the disease.

The tangible side effects of the meds are fatigue and minor brain fog (yeah, I know, many friends of long standing see nothing new in the latter).

Since I’m older than dirt anyway the potential of death didn’t smash into my life…plus I have the assurance that “my times are in His hands.”

When first diagnosed the bummer was cancelling six weeks of summer camp preaching. Now preaching weeks of summer camp are sort of emergency-only. For my money the biggest part of camp ministry is walking around and conversing with campers. Yes, preaching is a wonderful privilege, and the Lord honors His Word, but the one-on-ones are where stuff happens.

I’ve seen too many camp speakers who preach and – poof – disappear until the next platform time.

I well remember one director who brought me in every other year for decades saying, “Jack, I can always get better speakers (thanks, friend!) but I can’t find speakers who will hang with the kids like you do.”

Reminds me of one of the hard observations after 45+ years of youth work – I’m amazed at the number of youth workers/pastors I’ve met who don’t seem to like youth!

Back to the cancer – we all got ‘stuff.’ My stuff now is the fact that I have to take a nap everyday. Naps are wonderful – until you have to take them.

I still walk – but at a much slower pace. Because of blood thinners etc I’m virtually paranoid about falling…so I take it easy. If I bump into anything I bruise, if I get cut it bleeds heavily.

So…after a couple years plus, cancer is a normal part of my life. Jane has been so supportive, encouraging, and, when needed kicks me in the butt to quit whining etc

The journey continues. Above all, I desire to finish well. If you pray, pray that I accomplish that goal.