Dr. John C. Parker

Tulsa, OK

Prostate Cancer Survivor

When my son David suffered his closed-head injury in 1984, he spent 37 days in a coma. I had to watch and wait each day, not knowing whether he'd live or die. It was then that I probably learned the most about waiting on God. It was then that I also learned the value of friends and how to depend on others. Hardly a day goes by, even to this day, that someone doesn't ask me how David's doing. That's pretty powerful after more than 20 years.

During the course of my life, I've had the opportunity to author four books, and serve as building consultant for the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma and as a minister for hundreds of churches in numerous capacities for nearly 50 years in six different states. Most recently, I also completed 40 TomoTherapy® radiation treatments at Cancer Treatment Centers of America® (CTCA) for prostate cancer.

I prayed over each step I took, from the research I did to the treatments I decided on, and I approached everything with the faith that says God is absolutely in control. I mean, really, you have no idea if the treatments are going to work or not. You just realize that's the part you have no control over, but He does.

My PSA scores had been elevated for several years prior to my cancer diagnosis in December 2008, but, following a biopsy, when I was actually told I had cancer, I kept the information private until I explored all my options and made my own choices for treatment.

I wasn't upset; in fact, I've had perfect peace throughout this whole process. I just wanted to explore everything first before I told anyone anything. I think people need to do research, get second opinions, evaluate everything and all treatment options. I had a choice. Others need to remember that they do too.

Although I chose to have Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) at another cancer facility prior to coming to CTCA, I was disappointed that the facility didn't take a whole-person approach to my care.

I really wanted a mind, body, spirit approach, so, I called CTCA. I was familiar with the great care here through both relatives and friends. And my experience at CTCA has been good as well. I've been able to use services like nutrition and naturopathy as part of my treatment. As a minister, I must also say, that although I've visited hundreds of persons in the hospital over the years, I don't think Ive witnessed the staff at any of those hospitals being as caring, friendly, gracious, helpful and courteous as I've found at CTCA. I believe that what I've observed comes from a genuine sense of care and love for those they serve.

I found my radiation sessions to be perfect opportunities to be still and recognize the Lord's presence and involvement in my treatments. They also gave me an opportunity to reflect on how God has allowed man to be a partner in God's healing process by giving him the knowledge to build such incredible machines.

I'm founding partner of the consulting firm Church Staffing Solutions and am also minister of education and administration emeritus and minister-at-large for South Tulsa Baptist Church. I gave my life to Christ at 12 years of age and felt called to the ministry at 16. Over the years, God has given me the opportunity to do so many things in ministry, and I'm so grateful.

However, with all God's taught me, all I've done and all I've shared with others, I believe my cancer has still been a classroom experience for me ... producing greater empathy for others and more patience. In fact, it might have provided enough food for thought for yet another book or article. Who knows? Now that treatment's over, and I'm back on the fast track, I have time to mull things over -- in between my other projects -- and see what insights God may have given me to share from this chapter of my life.