March 21, 2008

Archbishop Buechlein says cancer treatment prognosis is positive

Most Rev. Daniel M. Buecbhlein, O.S.B.

Most Rev. Daniel M. Buecbhlein, O.S.B.

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

I can’t tell you how much I miss being out in our parishes and at the Catholic Center, especially at this holy time. I pray that you all may enjoy God’s choicest blessings for the Holy Triduum and the great Easter Solemnity!

I want to provide you with an update on the status of my treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma now that my medical treatment is well under way.

The fourth of six chemotherapy treatments was completed on March 14. The side effects of the chemo have resulted in the curtailing of my public pastoral ministry. This is largely due to the fact that my white blood cell count is extremely low and my immune system has been weakened. The oncology staff urges me to avoid public interaction for the time being because of the danger of serious infection. I was told that infection would mean hospitalization.

After two more chemotherapy treatments, concluding in April or early May, there will follow a month of daily radiation treatments. In summary, according to my oncologist and staff, my prognosis is completely positive. If there are no unforeseen developments, I should be back “full force” in August or September. I plan to celebrate the priesthood ordination on June 7 at SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral, and I hope to attend the upcoming Priest Convocation at Saint Meinrad.

I would be remiss if I did not thank all of you for your understanding and for carrying on our mission for Christ so well that pastoral life seems to go on as usual. The cancer and accompanying consequences have, in fact, given me a wholesome spiritual pause and a time of special grace in this Lenten season. Your response and that of so many others has been overwhelming and humbling. Thank you so much for your prayerful support and encouragement.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Rev. Daniel M. Buechlein, O.S.B.

Archbishop of Indianapolis | March 15, 2008

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