Dear hurting friend,

The Tomlinsons knew what it means to hurt.  They also knew that faith in God’s Word is the victory that overcomes the severest trials that life can throw at us.  From their experiences they reached out to others, to encourage them to trust God even when the unthinkable happens.

Since 1993, Howard underwent eight surgeries for brain tumors.  Each time, hopes for healing were dashed, as seizures, weakness and disability returned.  Since 1999 he was on permanent disability from work, and in March 2000, returning growth of the tumor and pressure from fluid on the brain made him paralyzed on his left side.  Right at the same time, Jeanne, who had been his loving caretaker for those nine years of surgeries, radiation and chemotherapy, during which time she also started a home business to help augment their meager funds while also working tirelessly to comfort other hurting people via email, church and visits to convalescent homes, received a devastating blow.  She got cancer.

On March 22, 2000, Jeanne, who had never smoked a cigarette in her life, was diagnosed with lung cancer that had already spread to her brain.  In only 70 days, getting continuously weaker, she came to the point where the cancer had permeated her body.  She eventually succumbed on June 1, holding onto her husband’s hand.  Howie continued to have health problems from his brain tumors.  Doctors operated again, trying to remove fluid buildup in the brain, till they could do no more.  Growing weaker in body but not in spirit, he clung to life for nine months as his parents and friends ministered to him, and he to them.  Late on Sunday evening February 25, 2001, a month after celebrating his 50th birthday, he also followed his wife in death. 

The tears and fears of anyone going through such ordeals can only be imagined; but in the Tomlinson’s case, one characteristic stood out: faith.  Jeanne and Howie both knew that a wise, all-powerful and loving God could be trusted to work all things together for good.

Long before Jeanne’s cancer diagnosis, she and Howard had started writing a book called Hope for Those Who Hurt.  They had completed 30 chapters before the latest crisis struck, leaving both of them unable to continue work on the project.  It is the prayer of their family members that this book, now available on the Internet, will help many others who are struggling with pain, illness, loneliness, broken relationships, and despair.  God be with you as you read.

Sincerely,
The family and friends of Howard and Jeanne Tomlinson