Many of you already know that 2018 became a year of challenge as Steve received the diagnosis of liver cancer in March. In May, July, and August he underwent three procedural surgeries to eradicate two lesions, and in September was declared cancer free.
However, the development of tumors was likely to continue. The only long-term solution was a liver transplant. Steve qualified for the list in June, and was told that surgery was likely to occur mid-January 2019.
We did not have to wait that long. On December 19, early in the morning we received the call to head to the hospital. The rest of the story is told (and will continue to unfold) on https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/steveruegg/journal.
In a nutshell, we’ve been moved to tears numerous times the last eight days as God ministered to us, and blessed us profoundly through the kind and attentive care he received at University of Cincinnati Hospital, and the love, prayers, and practical help proffered by family and friends.
God has also included delights we never would have thought to ask for, like Christmas at home with our older son, daughter-in-law, and two granddaughters. No hugs or kisses for Papa, but at least we could be together. Our younger son and his wife arrived yesterday, our daughter and older granddaughter arrive tonight. (Yes, the Lysol wipes are kept handy!)
(From the Inside Out will be on hiatus for at least a couple of weeks so I can focus on caring for Steve.)
From the Inside Out 
God is SO good!! We are praising Him for ALL the amazing things He does, as we continue to pray for Steve’s full recovery.
Prayers for healing daily and Blessings from Our Awesome and Mighty God!
Prayers to your family. This brought back memories for me receiving the call in the middle of the night to take my brother in for his transplant. It has been miraculous to see God at work over the last five years!
Nancy, I will miss your blogs but you certainly deserve a hiatus after what you and Steve have experienced. Please know the HFUMC family joins me in praising God for His Goodness and in prayers for a complete and swift recovery for Steve. Wishing you a joyous reunion with your family and in the coming year. Much love to you both.
Nancy, Bob and I were so glad to hear the good news about Steve. He was always our favorite pastor and we are so happy to hear the good news about Steve’s improving health. Love, Bob and Ruth Hopper
What a blessing! I’ll be praying for your Steve just as you prayed for mine. Prayers for both of you.
Nancy, I continue to praise our Lord Jesus for His wonderful healing hand in Steve’s health issues this past year! Please know that I continue praying for you and Steve. Take care to rest yourself! I’ll miss your blog but look forward to your return! Love, Cheri
Hi Nancy,
Get that time for everyone to heal up. Praying right now. In Christ,
Gary