The Unchosen Journey series

This series shows how God specialzes in turning our "Nope" into "Hope"

Hope Packaged in a Dwelling

Hope Lodge is a dwelling and so much more

We knew it was true upon entering the door

Greeted as if we were family coming home

Reassuring us, we won’t face cancer alone

The initial tour revealed elegance, yet comfortable

Our 7 week temporary quarters, pleasurable

The staff and volunteers full of joy and compassion

Selflessly serving others is clearly their mission

Cancer treatment at MUSC is footsteps away

Quality care at MUSC and Hope Lodge everyday

It’s an amazing blessing, pairing them together

Making it much easier for those battling cancer

No human words can express our gratefulness

Each one of you overwhelmed us with kindness

Hope Lodge is a dwelling and so much more

We knew it was true upon entering the door

In 2024, doctors diagnosed me with Stage 4 tongue cancer, which also involved neck lymph nodes. Part of the treatment plan from the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Head and Neck Cancer Center in Charleston, SC, included 7 weeks of treatments. The medical team provided radiation treatments each day Monday through Friday, totalling 35 treatments. Additionally, chemo infusions were scheduled each Monday for 7 weeks.

We were fortunate to stay at the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge, located a short walk from the MUSC Cancer Center. Our care at MUSC and Hope Lodge was stellar. We highly recommend both facilities. 

Inspiration for the above poem unfolded as we encountered authentically caring individuals who showered us with kindness, compassion, and their expertise. 

Perhaps your unchosen journey isn’t cancer. Instead, it’s a sudden job layoff, a devastating fire, flood, tornado, or the unexpected death of a loved one. If we knew ahead of time those heartbreaking challenges were about to take place, our first choice would be to opt out with a “Nope!” . . .  “No thank you!” . . .  “Don’t need that!” . . .  “I’ll pass on that one!” However, no one asked for our vote. 

Our unchosen journeys may look different, yet we all need the same thing during devastating times. It’s crucial for “hope” to be restored. Why not turn to the one who loves to birth hope? Our Creator specializes in converting “nope” moments to “hope” for the future.