For unto us another son is born...

I had mentioned earlier that Anne and I were expecting a new addition to the family. Nishan John K Jacob was born at 9.30 Pm on 18th of September. Nishan means ' a sign' - this has been just another miracle in our lives to know that we serve a living God. All went well and Anne and Nishan are back at home after a short hospital stay. Koby is very proud of 'his' baby and is thrilled he has another boy to play with.

Certain things that went through my mind as we went through this experience of being parents all over again. One was that what ever our education or qualification, despite the fact that Anne conducts deliveries on a daily basis. There are so many things that can possibly not work out and so many things that just need to be left into God's hands. Prayer, and not our knowledge helps keep us from emotionally caving in when we go through a period of vulnerability.

Anne's mum was commenting that Koby while with them for a holiday in the past was all dressed to go to the beach - when it started raining. He walked out and loudly prayed "Jesus, please stop the rain - I want to go to the beach!". The family concluded that since he seems to know where to look if he needs help - then he should be all right for the future!

Another thing I realized was how God places such perfect people to look after us. Dr Gigi Mathews (Anne's obstetrician) stood by her side through the entire delivery, and with such love talked her through. She has stood by Anne through her thesis and with both Koby and Nishan's deliveries.

Being on the patient side of a hospital once again was interesting - I remember how Dr V Sitaram, my teacher and Professor of Surgery would tell us that the doctors visit is the highlight of every patients day. How true it is... Though it sometimes sounds like stating the obvious - each word spoken at that visit will determine the mood, conversation and plans for the day. Meals, visitors and medicines only become secondary.

Anyway - To the larger community that has listened to my ramble for years - Our family is now 4 people strong and bonded in Christ. Thank you for your prayers as always.

Surgery Department - CFH

Our department (Surgery) made a 2 day drive to Valparai - a hill station about 5 hours from ODC. It was an excellent drive - lovely roads, beautiful scenery along the drive - acre's of lush green tea estates to drive along. We saw a wild deer crossing our path - Anne found the many hairpin bends a bit difficult to stomach and Koby had a lovely time. We had a large group as you can make out in the picture - and we made the trip in 3 cars. Sitting right behind me in the picture is Dr Santosh Benjamin - a mentor and the pillar I lean on in our department - it was his idea actually that we made this trip. The reason I posted this picture was that when I joined ODC - this department was me and for some days - just another junior doctor (usually Justin - 2nd from the left), but now it has grown to have 3 consultants and presently 5 junior's in the unit. We will... God willing, have more join us soon. Our case numbers have grown at least 3 fold and in the last year we have bought a Laparoscope and a new video endoscope/colonoscope for the department and patients can avail these at dirt cheap rates.

I have witnessed a department show incredible growth - far beyond my wildest expectations. There is no doubt that God has blessed our efforts - when I joined this place had no surgeon for 2 months - and even simple cases needed to be referred 2 hours away to Madurai.

I only pray that as and when we move to Baripada that God will continue to bless our efforts. Unless the Lord builds the house - the laborer will work in vain. I have experienced that as true in my department over the last year.

Anne is doing OK and is due with our second in October - Miriam/Nishan are our 1st choice Girl/Boy names we have come up with.... Koby is excited and already planning for activities with his new baby.

Below is a picture of Anne and Koby who came to join me in the operating theater for a surprise birthday party that my department organized. That was a really nice day!

The God of good things

Anne and I are still in Oddanchatram. We will be here for a little while longer. The picture is of us at the recent wedding of Anandith and Aswathy in Vellore. Koby is dressed up - because he was the ring bearer at the wedding. It was a special occasion for all and Koby pulled the job off well to our relief!

Good news to announce to the larger community - Anne and I are expecting another bundle of Joy - God willing in September/Oct. So thats a another miracle to doccument for all you post chemo's out there... God has been faithful and is a God of good things.