In July 2014, my dad (Bud) was diagnosed with Leukemia. Doctors shared that it was a fast moving cancer, but they seemed optimistic early on about getting his cancer into remission and we knew that with God all things are possible! Over the course of the past 8 months, Bud spent 150+ days in the hospital and went through 5 rounds of intense chemo. As long as doctors gave him treatment options, he took the opportunity and fought hard. During this time, we had many heart to heart conversations, went on walks, spent much time praying together, shared with him that we were pregnant and had many celebratory dinners when he was be released from the hospital.
While in Nepal, I received the call that my dad was being sent home from the hospital on hospice as the results showed the 5th round of chemo was unsuccessful and he had several infections. There was nothing more doctors could do. He requested that I come quickly, which I did. I was able to share several sweet days with him and talk about the good things the Lord has done and pray together with him before his health started to fail.
Bud fought the good fight until the very end and was comfortable in his bed at home with my brother, uncle and I at his side until he took his last breath here on earth and he entered heaven on Thursday, February 26th. He followed my mom eight months after to the most glorious place where they are worshipping, dancing, and enjoying the presence of Jesus where there is no more cancer, no more chemo, no more sickness and no more pain.
Reflecting on his testimony, the day we will treasure the most is April 25, 2009 when he committed his heart to Christ and his life was forever changed. My dad often said after being diagnosed with cancer, “If I am healed…I win. If I go to heaven…I win”. He was overwhelmed and truly blessed by so many of you…our family and friends who may or may not ever have met him, but you prayed, sent cards, care packages, called, visited and loved more than he ever imagined was possible.
We will be having a Celebration of Life Service on Saturday, March 7th at 2 p.m. at Calvary Chapel Ramona in San Diego in honor of my dad (Bud “Buddy” Clavell). If you are in the area and would like to attend, please reply to this email and we will send you directions and additional information.
Bond arrived today from Nepal to attend and share at the Celebration Service and we plan for him to return to Nepal to resume ministry and teaching later this month.
Thank you for your love, support and prayers for our family during this time.
Heather and Bond Gaona
