Father Bob Baker, SM, pastor of St. Joseph’s Church in Marietta, has been battling cancer for almost three years. He wrote a letter to his friends in the archdiocese on March 27 and requested that it be published in The Georgia Bulletin.

In it, he explains the cancellation of his latest surgery and gives an update on his condition. The letter follows:

“While awaiting my cancer surgery, which had been delayed from March 24th until the 31st, I experienced two major fainting episodes that hospitalized me (March 14-16 and March 20-28). This was caused by a possible combination of dehydration, blood pressure changes, and pressure of the tumor on my carotid artery. I was to be dismissed from St. Joseph’s Hospital on the 23rd, when suddenly and unexplainably I had a respiratory arrest. I ended up in ICU for three days – one day on a respirator. The first day in ICU, my brother and sister-in-law flew in from Rochester, NY. Because of the tumor’s narrowing my windpipe, I chose a tracheostomy when removed from the respirator. The doctor saw it as the safest and most secure way to go.

“When Dr. McConnel performed the trach, he discovered the tumor had spread further than he thought or expected, now involving a major portion of the back of the tongue, the uvula, and the neck. Surgery would be so extensive that it would radically alter my speech, along with the overall quality of ministry and life.

“Discerning prayer has led me to cancel surgery, live with a permanent trach, and work with a pain clinic to establish a program for whatever time I have left. My doctor says he refuses to predict how long a person has to live, believing only God has that power.

“Whatever time I have, I intend to live it as productively as possible. My faith in the Lord and the love and support I have felt from so many, have brought me through the past almost three years of cancer.

“I humbly beg your continued prayerful support during the final period of my ministry and life. God bless you always!”

Father Baker originally underwent surgery for throat cancer in June 1991. Throughout his illness members of the parish became united as they prayed for their pastor’s recovery. Father Baker celebrated his silver jubilee this year.