What's Happening With John Ross?

FROM YOUR PASTOR

To all the wonderful people at UUMC -  I want to give you an update on my physical condition, with assurance that I plan to be back at UUMC by next Tuesday, March 23.

I have been diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy, which is a temporary numbing of the left side of my head, resulting in headaches, a crooked smile, lack of sensation in part of my mouth, a watering and drooping of the left eye and some ear and jaw discomfort.  It is a temporary condition caused by a virus and will run its course in a few weeks.  I am already getting relief from steroids and anti-viral medicine.

I have chosen to run the course of the medications this week and then return next week in time to prepare for Holy Week.  I will be able to resume fully my responsibilities as your pastor, but I may have only one-half of a smile for you for a few weeks.  The doctor tells me that there is a good chance Bell’s Palsy will not reoccur in my life.

You are in great hands with Pastor Kennetha Bigham-Tsai and the rest of our wonderful church staff, as well as our other church leaders.  They have been wonderful in assuring me that I need to take care of myself this week, so I will be able to return in better health.  Margery Schleicher has been a great volunteer, teaching my Sunday morning class and Ellen’s Wednesday night class.  I appreciate all of you!

The trauma was last week on our 4-day trip to Pennsylvania to see family.  Driving through Cleveland, the numbing of my face caused me to call the doctor and my registered nurse sister, who both urged me to get to an emergency room immediately in case it was a stroke.  I spent two days in a hospital in my hometown of Erie PA while they diagnosed the illness, with assurance finally that it was not a stroke or anything else life-threatening.  Once I started medications, the symptoms subsided.

It’s been a long time (43 years!) since I’ve been hospitalized.  I’m much more used to visiting others in the hospital than being a patient myself.  It is a good time to assess life, goals, and what is most important in life.  Ellen has been a wonderful support and caregiver to me through this troubling week.

I look forward to seeing you all next week and then to join in our Holy Week experiences.  I will preach on Palm Sunday, March 28.  Your prayers and support are greatly appreciated, and I am grateful for a new lease on life after this scary experience. Thanks be to God!

John Ross Thompson