Glory to God in the Highest

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the LORD. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

Many of you may not have known, but Zac and I traveled to Iowa City for a couple appointments and tests on Wednesday. My oncologists wanted an update on my vision following treatment and also wanted me to meet with a head and neck specialist to address my hearing and also a couple small issues I've had over recent months. Although it does not match the glorious news the angels brought years ago (but nothing can compare to the birth of our Savior), we did have a little good news ourselves yesterday.

I started out with a hearing test. After testing, they are not concerned about my hearing at this point. Although the UofI did not test my hearing in June before treatment, I did have it tested here in Des Moines a year ago and it has slightly improved! As one doctor pointed out, I am very blessed to have full hearing in my left ear and only mild problems in my right. We then met with the head and neck surgeon. He addressed the atrophy I have in my face or the little control I have over the muscles in my face. He said it's amazing that I still have control over the muscles around my eyes (I'd say it's God protecting me!).

We were then off to the neuro-ophthalmologist. They ran many tests and took lots of photos. And in the end we received the good news that my vision and double vision has improved slightly. Some of you may know that on my glasses (used only for distances and driving), I have a prism. It's like a clear sticker on my glasses that helps the double vision. The doctors told me yesterday that I can try going without the prism for now!

Zac and I had a great day as it was encouraging to hear the news that there is slight improvement. There have been many times over the past few years that I feel so sorry for myself that I can't hear clearly at all times and have to deal with the double vision. But different things throughout the day reminded me that I am so incredibly blessed. I can still hear and see and it could always be worse. I also recognize that my healing is going to be slow. But we rejoice each day in the little blessings and improvements.

As we enter into the Christmas season, may we all remember the reason for celebrating - The great and glorious news that God sent His Son, Christ, to earth. He was born a baby and one day He made the ultimate sacrifice for us. "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."