Truist Park. I am seated near the Atlanta bullpen. The game is about to start. But in my mind, I am a million miles away.
Yesterday I had CT scans at Brookwood Hospital. My appointment was an early one. I was pretty nervous.
I battled to find a parking space in the garage. I wedged my truck between a haphazardly parked Cadillac and a drunk Silverado, leaving six millimeters of clearance.
I got checked into the hospital by a woman who was either suffering from clinical depression or had not consumed her daily quantum of caffeine. Then I was taken to a room where I was exposed to dangerous amounts of daytime television.
I was here because the doctor ordered Tests. Namely, because my doc didn’t like what she saw. She wanted the CT scan “just to be sure.”
That’s how she put it. “Just to be sure.”
Within the last 60 days I’ve had five friends die of cancer. And now here I was, sitting in a sterile hospital waiting to be checked for the same thing. Just to be sure.
A woman in scrubs opened the door.
“Sean?” she said.
I swallowed the lump of clay in my throat and rose from my chair.
I was herded into the inner sanctum of the diagnostic center. Past the rooms crowded with high-tech equipment. Past the imposing machines outfitted with blinking lights, digital tentacles, blue lasers, and sprawling hydraulic arms. It was like touring the bowels of the Starship Enterprise.
A nurse made me drink a funny-tasting liquid. They jabbed me with needles the size of milkshake straws. They took me into a room with a giant, thrumming machine.
The technician was a perky woman. The lady smiled and said, “Take off your pants.”
“Sorry?”
She pointed to my southerly regions. “Your pants, the zippers and buttons interfere with the scan. Take off your pants.”
I was sure she was kidding. I was thinking this was some ritual punchline used on new CT-scan victims. But it was no joke.
“Here’s the thing,” I said. “I’m not wearing…”
But I couldn’t bring myself to say it.
“Let me guess,” she said. “You’re not wearing underwear.”
I hung my head.
“Trust me,” she said, “I’ve seen every organ there is. Including that one.”
How reassuring.
She handed me a sheet to cover myself. The sheet was so sheer you could read the newspaper through it.
After the scan, I sat in my truck, pressing my head onto my steering wheel. I stayed like that for a while. Just breathing.
I drove home. I did some work around the house. My wife and I ate dinner in relative silence. I watched a ball game. I went to bed early.
This morning, on a whim, my wife and I decided to drive to Atlanta to take in a Braves game. Our reasoning was simple: Life is brutally short, we were thinking. When did we quit making fun a priority? Isn’t that the point of life itself? Having fun?
So we piled into our Ford and drove through the 151 miles of bumper-to-bumper Dearborn steel on Interstate 20 East.
We checked into our hotel. The hotel lobby was crowded with the hapless degenerates known as baseball fans. Of which I am one.
There aren’t many things I love more than baseball. My father passed this arduous love of the sport to me before he died. It is all I have left of his soul.
Sometimes it seems as though my life can be measured in baseball games. Saint Louis won the Fall Classic against Milwaukee the year I was born. The Miami Marlins won the Series the year I was married. The year my first book was published, the Chicago Cubs broke a 108-year slump and became world champions.
That evening, my wife and I walked into Truist Park. I ordered a 40-ounce Coors. I drank most of it while standing in line and waiting for my $22 hotdog.
The ballpark was packed. Forty-two thousand baseball enthusiasts were sweating through their clothing. Kids shouting. Vendors hollering. Body odor everywhere. It was hotter outside than a Porta John at a bluegrass festival.
I was doctoring my frank when my cell phone rang.
I answered.
“Is this Mister Dietrich?” the official voice said.
“This is me,” I shouted over the din of the crowd. “But you’ll have to speak up, it’s loud where I am.”
“This is the doctor’s office. Is this a bad time?”
My heart stopped.
I plugged my non-phone ear. “No, go ahead.”
“Well, Mister Dietrich…”
And time slowed. The world became eerily quiet. I thought of all the people I’ve lost. My loved ones, who suffered greatly, who did not deserve the hell they endured. Many of them probably received a phone call just like this one.
The woman on the phone said, “I called to tell you that your scans came back perfect, Mister Dietrich. You’re all clear. Everything looks good.”
And that is why a grown man was crying in Truist Park this evening.
197 comments
Annie - July 8, 2022 6:17 am
What an absolutely wonderful thing to cry over. I’m so happy for you both.
NCDonna - July 8, 2022 6:18 am
The best news!
Lisa K Riley - July 8, 2022 6:23 am
I’ve received that phone call, and that feeling of relief. I’ve also received the phone call that begins with, “I’m so sorry but the results show…” and your world stops spinning for just a second or two. I am so glad yours was the former! Hope the Braves won tonight.
Kathy D-Rock - July 8, 2022 6:55 am
Happy tears for you and your sweet bride ♥️
Miz Liz - July 8, 2022 7:08 am
Oh, my, THANK YOU, Holy Father, merciful,Lord.
Sean, I was terrified just the few minutes it took me to get to those beautiful words: PERFECT. Everything FINE
LOVE you, dear Sean, and your precious Wife.
Now I will breathe again.
Kitty Rowell - July 8, 2022 7:15 am
God bless you. God blessed us all for keeping you healthy. So sorry you had that scare! However we need you! You have inspired me to remember to have more fun!! Take care. Big hugs to you and your wife.
PMc - July 8, 2022 7:34 am
Dear Sean So happy for your good news!!! 🤗
Keep on Truckin 🤠
Peace and Love from Birmingham 🙏
Ed (Bear) - July 8, 2022 8:22 am
Good news buddy!
Doyle Teresa Decker - July 8, 2022 8:25 am
Thank You Jesus!! Life is short…play ball!! You are truly an inspiration to me. Keep ’em coming!
oldlibrariansshelf - July 8, 2022 8:47 am
Bless your heart and put on some undies!
Leigh Amiot - July 8, 2022 9:00 am
Now people know what to get you for Christmas.
Donna Brombacher - July 8, 2022 9:04 am
Thank God your scan was clear; thank God for YOU!
Pat Palmisano - July 8, 2022 9:18 am
So happy to hear the “all clear” for you.
Tim Smith - July 8, 2022 9:29 am
That’s great news, Sean!
Lavenda - July 8, 2022 9:33 am
God bless you
Sandi krym - July 8, 2022 9:36 am
To quote a favorite song…there’s no such thing as too much fun!
Debbie - July 8, 2022 9:39 am
Oh Sean, so happy the news was good! I have been there two years ago. When I finally got the it is all good news I had no idea just how tense I had been for weeks. That is a scary place that one has to go alone. People are there for support but one is still very much alone.
Frank - July 8, 2022 9:41 am
Good news indeed! Best wishes from another ardent lover of baseball.
Te - July 8, 2022 9:48 am
Good news! The best! Whew! That was a mean one! Don’t give me a scare like that. Bet that was the best game ever and you both roared yourselves hoarse. Good. You deserve it.
Ann Thompson - July 8, 2022 9:59 am
So glad the news is good. Nicely written story. You moved me.
Have some more fun!!
Kim H - July 8, 2022 10:13 am
Oh Thank You God!!! My heart was pounding so hard as I read your email!! So thankful you’re ok!!! Love you Sean!!!🙏💙🙏💙🙏
Dee - July 8, 2022 10:14 am
Wonderful news. Thank you God for the blessing of life.
Polly - July 8, 2022 10:21 am
Oh thank God. So glad your scan was good! ❤️
Judy Klamo - July 8, 2022 10:34 am
Your articles really touch what most of us are dealing with on a daily basis. I look forward to reading your stories every single day.
Cindy - July 8, 2022 10:35 am
First, so thankful your scans were clear. 🙏🏼
Second, no underwear was the least of your worries. 😊
imcdbw - July 8, 2022 10:39 am
Praise God! Thank you, Jesus! I’m so glad you received good news! I know both you and Jamie are hugely relieved. I’m weeping in thanksgiving!
Whew! Hope you enjoyed the baseball game. Now get to WalMart and buy some underwear! And wear it! You don’t want to ever be caught without it again! Thank you, thank you, Jesus! Big, big hugs to both you and Jamie!
Sally Ann Sisson - July 8, 2022 10:39 am
I have bawled my eyes out several times in my life (70 years) with phone calls like that! Just know that you have hundreds of people holding their breath at your side, including myself! God bless!
Lynn - July 8, 2022 10:42 am
I am glad you have gotten the all clear. The best news. Ever.
Pat Nichols - July 8, 2022 10:46 am
Sean, it’s when you have that test and you don’t hear from them. Then when you go to the office to find out, the nurses avert their eyes from you and when asked say,”You’ll have to discuss those results with the Dr.” Please pray for me. I have been diagnosed with a rare and hideous genetic disease called HATTR amyloidosis. Only 50,000 people in the whole world have it. (With those odds, i shouldve bought some lottery tickets🤣).
So glad you got good results, glad they called you to let you know the good news, and most of all, glad you got to enjoy that high-dollar hot dog! Keep on doing what you do, brother. You bring us sunshine on those cloudy days!
Diana Kinser - July 8, 2022 12:35 pm
I’m praying for you and for complete healing, Pat! May God give you extra strength and peace.
Kathy Croft - July 8, 2022 10:46 am
Thanks be to God. Wonderful news.
🇿🇦🇿🇦Norma Den - July 8, 2022 10:48 am
Praise the Lord. God knows how we all depend and need your daily dose of good medicine. So. Glad all is well, but best checked and told all clear. Go get another large Coors.
🇿🇦🇿🇦Norma Den - July 8, 2022 10:51 am
Praise the Lord. So glad all is well. God knows how many of us depend on your daily medicine to keep us going. You deserve another large Coors
Diana Drain - July 8, 2022 10:53 am
The best news ever! Have more fun!
Anne Arthur - July 8, 2022 10:54 am
I was holding my breath. Phewww, feeling deep relief now. That was scary to read.
Praise God for the “all clear”.
Marianne Bryan - July 8, 2022 10:58 am
Sometimes. , just to be sure is just that!!!
So happy for the great news. Enjoy your beautiful wife and your good life with thanksgiving to God, the author of man’s story.🙏🏻🙏🏻
Edith Clark - July 8, 2022 10:59 am
I am glad you have a clear scan. God bless
Donna - July 8, 2022 10:59 am
What wonderful news!!
Julie - July 8, 2022 11:03 am
Thanking God with you!!!
Phil - July 8, 2022 11:08 am
Peace be with you.
Joy Jacobs - July 8, 2022 11:11 am
Life can be scary. Happy you received good news. ❤️ I had a similar experience about 30 years ago. Constant headache located in a specific area of my head. Thankfully it wasn’t a tumor but caused by overuse in my neck. I am deaf in my left ear and constantly turn my head to hear people talk. After a year at a neurologist I went to a chiropractor and it’s mostly been cured by monthly chiropractor visits. Too much computer time will nearly always cause a flare up. ❤️ It’s not easy getting old. 😊
Jerry Lassiter - July 8, 2022 11:19 am
Praise God for the good news from the CT Scan and thanks for sharing the news with all your fans……May you continue to live your life with good health…..
Tom McCoppin - July 8, 2022 11:23 am
Happy for you Sean. One year ago my bride of 48 years was diagnosed with the big C. It came out of the blue and hit us like a ton of bricks. They assured us that it was caught very early. But, three surgeries, and a month of radiation later, we still labor under its oppressive shadow. Life has taken on a surreal patina. It is very hard to explain, but it has not been fun. I guess the one positive is that this experience has helped me realize how much I love and appreciate my wife. I would probably be lying in a gutter if I had not met her. This morning at ten we have to be at the hospital for a scan. While we won’t have to negotiate a big city hospital parking garage (like we did for the surgeries) we do have to get past the Schlitterbahn madness. We are hoping for good news, but in the back of my mind I am bracing for the worst. I discovered your words a few months ago, and wanted you to know that I find them comforting and compelling. Take Care my friend and congrats on your good news.
Sandra J Stapulionis - July 8, 2022 11:35 am
I’m glad you have that memory of you father to touch your soul. I pray that tucked into the recesses of your memory you will have more. I too had a difficult early childhood. However I was taught the worst history you have behind you, the harder you have to work to create a good history for your children. And so I did and so can you. Blessings!
Lander - July 8, 2022 11:41 am
Pretty darn nice when you get those calls. Tears of gratitude can fill that 40 oz cup right back up.
Cheryl Goldin - July 8, 2022 11:42 am
Sean- your stories are always appreciated. They touch me deeply and as someone who has lived in Georgia my whole life – are very relatable. This story – wow- I held my breath for you as I was reading- I’m so glad you shared and you are okay.
frank plyler - July 8, 2022 11:42 am
God IS good…
Susie - July 8, 2022 5:12 pm
frank, what is it you say if the news is bad?
Ernie in River City - July 8, 2022 11:44 am
Congratulations to you and all of us who were praying (way after the fact … good thing God exists beyond the bounds of time). Guess you, Jamie and the Braves won that night?
calliejack11 - July 8, 2022 11:46 am
Thank you, God…
Marcy Antle - July 8, 2022 11:50 am
OMG, so thankful you are ok! How scary. If you are in Atlanta some day, I’ll introduce you to Bobby Cox, he and his wife are friends of mine. Love you so much.
Nancy - July 8, 2022 11:51 am
Oh Sean! Thank the Lord for this wonderful news. He knew we still need you to lift our spirits everyday! Love you!
Brent Hair - July 8, 2022 11:53 am
congrats and God Bless
Katrina Butler - July 8, 2022 11:55 am
Whew! What good news! God bless you Sean!
Tom - July 8, 2022 11:56 am
Great news! If I had known I’d have added you to my prayer list- guess I can add you anyway. Never hurts to have folks praying for you.
Ginger Smith - July 8, 2022 11:58 am
Wonderful news, Sean! Pray for a young family member with a serious illness. Someone always knows someone close who is sick. And friends with cancer.
When y’all come through Bremen some time, let me know and we’ll meet you there. And talk about Conecuh County and about Haralson County! Y’all are in a new neck of the woods!
mikec4193 - July 8, 2022 12:04 pm
Great news…this is when a negative result is a good thing…
Leah - July 8, 2022 12:06 pm
And why you’re making every reader cry now !!! Thank you JESUS! HAPPY, VERY HAPPY FRIDAY, Sean!!!!
Taunya Lanham - July 8, 2022 12:07 pm
So thankful all is well, your scans are clear. God is good! Hope you were able to enjoy the game thru the tears of joy and relief!
Rhonda - July 8, 2022 12:07 pm
Ditto to all above! We need you. Take good care of Jamie an she will take good care of you. It s the craziest thing. There are many things that I “disagree” with you about. But I love you anyway. Start everyday with your article. When things are really bad I dig out the copy of “throw them back” that you and Jamie wrote. Its the book of Jamie, chapter one verses 1 through 15. This is a big deal because my attitude for my fellow man is like a mama who is madder than you have ever seen her. The world doesn’t need a hug. it needs a hickory.
Beachdreamer - July 8, 2022 12:12 pm
Sweet, sweet words! All clear! God isn’t thru with you yet❤️👏👏👏
Heidi - July 8, 2022 12:19 pm
So glad you’re clear……just had cancer removed from my face (2 areas, lots of stitches). Don’t even care what I look like. I dodged it. Very grateful to be able to keep living life with my sweet husband & family.
Drink a beer for me! WooHoo for you!
Melody Wright - July 8, 2022 12:20 pm
I thank God you are ok. Sean, I know when you were growing up your mother always told you to wear clean underwear when you left the house just in case you were in an accident. Why didn’t you have on clean drawers? I’m looking forward to a post on this subject. Now give Jamie a hug and enjoy your day, today and always.
Don Gardner - July 8, 2022 12:23 pm
Thank you Lord! Ironically, I read this as I am about to leave to get to get a CT scan for an aneurysm. However, the doctor is only monitoring the size to make sure it isn’t large enough to cause concern. Prayers that it will continue to be small enough to make treatment unnecessary.
Beverly Wynn - July 9, 2022 2:39 am
Don, so happy that you are monitoring & being proactive re your aneurysm……. Too many man today neglect their Dr visits…. God bless
Eva Toews - July 8, 2022 12:25 pm
Thank goodness! I had to skip down and read the ending first. I’m SO glad!!
Margaret Tarver Gallerani - July 8, 2022 12:27 pm
I held my breath while reading this, only exhaling on reading “you are fine.” I grew up in Atlanta, as did my father. He was a Braves fan. I hope they won, but even if they didn’t, you did.
Jenny Hustad - July 8, 2022 12:28 pm
God is good all the time! All the time God is good!
Susie - July 8, 2022 5:09 pm
Jenny, what do you say when the news is bad?
Kelley - July 8, 2022 12:28 pm
God is so good. 😊 Come visit us in Florence sometime. In my humble opinion, Florence is the best kept secret in Alabama.
Randy - July 8, 2022 12:37 pm
Wonderful news Sean. As a person who has lost many family members and friends to this vile disease I’m so glad to hear your good news! Live long and prosper!
Harry Dinken - July 8, 2022 12:41 pm
Thanks be to God.
Denice - July 8, 2022 12:44 pm
This is great news!! And now we all know you go commando.
Rene Bumgarner - July 8, 2022 12:44 pm
Praise God!
Bama Dave - July 8, 2022 12:46 pm
Reading this as sun rises over Lake Eufaula on our 50th Anniversary Eve. Told Karen last night that I ‘loved her more than baseball.’ Not ashamed of the tear in my eye.
Odell Frye - July 8, 2022 12:52 pm
God bless you for picking each of us up a little bit everyday
Lori - July 8, 2022 12:54 pm
Thankful you are all clear and yes too many get “the other call”. You described the waiting on the phone call as well as when the call comes perfectly as to how our minds and hearts take it…time stands still. You and the Mrs take good care of each other.
Susan faulkner - July 8, 2022 12:54 pm
Sooooo glad you’re okay, Sean!!!
peggy hayes - July 8, 2022 12:54 pm
Well, I’m crying now, too! Thank God you’re okay!
Ron J Fitzsimmons - July 8, 2022 12:55 pm
Good news. Now, more importantly…who won the game???
Robyn - July 8, 2022 12:56 pm
I ❤️You Sean & am so thankful & grateful all is well!!! Our God is an awesome God!!!
I’ve had it go the other way can be difficult & challenging; but 13 years later I’m still giving them h e double hockey sticks as my daddy use to say.
Keep fighting the good fight just like you do…we ❤️It & you!!!
Jane Stovall Yearwood - July 8, 2022 12:57 pm
So happy for you!
Susie Flick - July 8, 2022 12:58 pm
Wonderful news – you’ll remember in reference to the Braves! Wishing for results is the worst, did that twice this past spring( grateful to be a cancer survivor for now 29 yrs)..
Happy for you and Jamie and all of us too!
Maggie Priestaf - July 8, 2022 12:59 pm
I’m so glad!! Thanks for mentioning my home Dearborn. Now you and Jamie live large!
Fleming Straughan - July 8, 2022 1:01 pm
PTL
Thank you for your good news and sharing your thoughts.
TakeCare
GodBless
Mark B Miles - July 8, 2022 1:04 pm
Thank you God.
mimifran - July 8, 2022 1:05 pm
God had more plans for you. Your writings are wonderful an heartfelt….and humorous!!!
God is good! Your show in Mentone, Al, was wonderful and so glad i got to meet Jamie!
Martha - July 8, 2022 1:08 pm
Glad all is ok.
David Britnell - July 8, 2022 1:11 pm
Welling up again over here in Arkansas. Sometimes it’s hard to hold back the tears! God bless you Sean. Glad for the good report!!
Trudy - July 8, 2022 1:15 pm
Praise the Lord.
HT - July 8, 2022 1:17 pm
Thankful with you
Scott Covington - July 8, 2022 1:17 pm
Sean: So happy to hear the great results from you scan. I started reading you each day at the suggestion of a friend I’ve had since grade school (I am 75). I find you writing both humerus and/or uplifting, making it a perfect start of my day. Wanting to share my daily routine, I have followed my grade school friend and have shared your wit with everyone that knows how to smile.
Now to convert you to a Cardinal fan.
Paul McCutchen - July 8, 2022 1:19 pm
I was there last night also and probably in the same area. I was looking for someone to blame for the 3-2 loss in the 12th so I guess it was you. Just kidding and the news is great. I was in section 48 for the game on the 7th. HOT, HOT
Cheryl - July 8, 2022 1:20 pm
We can’t lose you. Your columns are one of the bright spots in my day.
Judy - July 8, 2022 1:20 pm
I am scheduled for 2 CT scans on Monday, just to be sure. Hope I get the same kind of news. Happy for you
Priscilla Hampton Tester - July 8, 2022 1:27 pm
I volunteered for many years at Brookwood… I know those ‘bowels’ of machines. Sorry you weren’t greeted by a smiling face!! Thankful that your scan was clear!!
Renee McCumber - July 8, 2022 1:32 pm
So very glad for your news. The “results waiting” is one of the worst emotional stressors I’ve experienced. Fear of the unknown really takes a toll. Never cried from relief at a ball park, but have tested my waterproof mascara in several other venues. I enjoy your work immensely!
Ronda - July 8, 2022 1:35 pm
Waiting for word is the hardest thing in this world. Hard to stay in the “present” for sure! I’m happy for you and your family.
Carolyn - July 8, 2022 1:36 pm
I just went through a similar experience when I got biopsy results showing no melanoma. It felt like warm water being poured over my body. My legs didn’t want to hold me up. And I wondered for just a moment if the news had been less favorable, would it have felt like ice water instead. Congratulations on your good report.
Pam - July 8, 2022 1:40 pm
Now I’m crying too!! Thank goodness you’re ok!!
Jocelyn - July 8, 2022 1:43 pm
Happy to hear your scan was clear. That is a load off your mind, literally. and mine as I read your column. Today is all you have, everyday. Live it to your best ability. Be nice and do the next right thing.
Gayle Wilson - July 8, 2022 1:47 pm
Bless you and Jamie. I’m sorry you had to endure this medical scare. But, so thankful that all is well. And yes, life is short and we need to enjoy every moment. Sending you a virtual hug.
Gigi S - July 8, 2022 1:52 pm
Hallelujah! So thankful you got good news ! My husband and I both received the dreaded “C” word in the last two decades. I’m an 18 year CML Leukemia survivor and my husband is a 12 year Prostate cancer survivor. Unfortunately, this year he developed an Autoimmune disease, but he’s doing well. God is good ALL the time.
Gay Marks - July 8, 2022 1:55 pm
I’ve been there. I once opened a fortune cookie that said”Happiness is not getting what you don’t want.” Works for me.
Bkr - July 8, 2022 2:11 pm
Whooo Sean! I am so thankful! I have Been keeping you in my prayers -so happy and so happy you were at the ballgame when you heard it. Super fun and life is short. Have fun! And keep loving us through your writing. Wish we could do more for you!
Kathy - July 8, 2022 2:18 pm
Praise God for answered prayers
pse - July 8, 2022 2:18 pm
hugs…
Janie F. - July 8, 2022 2:36 pm
So glad to hear the test came back clear. My husband has undergone a few of those tests, it’s scary every time.
Ms. K. - July 8, 2022 2:37 pm
Prayers work!
Lee Taylor - July 8, 2022 2:39 pm
Thank you Lord! This world needs Sean!
Brenda Harvey - July 8, 2022 2:39 pm
I am so glad to hear this good news. I needed to hear some for a change.
Jannie Bryant - July 8, 2022 2:42 pm
God Bless. And I am grateful, albeit selfishly, we will continue to enjoy your daily column. It is always one of my highlights of the day.
Ruth Mitchell - July 8, 2022 2:47 pm
Great news! You are blessed because you bless!
Elaine K Dempsey - July 8, 2022 2:50 pm
Thank you Jesus.
dmgtomlin - July 8, 2022 3:07 pm
So very relieved for you, Sean, especially since my cousin was just diagnosed with colon cancer.
Melissa Norman - July 8, 2022 3:07 pm
Whoot! Whoot! Praise God that you are alive and well!!!
H. J. Patterson - July 8, 2022 3:17 pm
Sean, no skivvies? Come on man.
Bobby - July 8, 2022 3:17 pm
A column most of your readers can identify with. Happy to hear the good news. Cheers!
Linda - July 8, 2022 3:19 pm
Great news! Yay!!
Susan McCall - July 8, 2022 3:28 pm
So glad to hear good news! God is good – especially in the hard times!
Laura Bendall - July 8, 2022 3:35 pm
Oh Sean I am so relieved your scans came out well!! I just love reading your very inspiring column everyday and I know my 90 year old dad does too! I think the lessons here are that we shouldn’t have to be scared for our health to indulge in a baseball game and that you should always wear underpants!! Also, it’s okay to cry in baseball, no matter what Tom Hanks says!! Keep the articles coming!! We love you!!
LIN ARNOLD - July 8, 2022 3:49 pm
There is entirely too much cancer in my lineage as well. God bless you for the good news and keep you safe & cancer-free for the rest of your days.
Dee Thompson - July 8, 2022 3:55 pm
Glad you were doing something fun when you got the news! You are a bit younger than me (I’m 60) but around 50 your “check engine” light starts to come on, and you spend a lot more time at the doctor. I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at age 51, but it was stage 1 and a hysterectomy took care of it. Then I had to get a pacemaker for a heart arrhythmia in 2015. No fun, but I am still here! Just make peace with it. You have a legion of fans praying for you, so that helps!
Amber W - July 8, 2022 3:56 pm
So thankful you got the all clear!
You bless me daily.
Cynthia Russell - July 8, 2022 4:01 pm
YOU’VE GOT US ALL CRYING WITH YOU!! THANK GOD YOU ARE OKAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YOU ARE “THE INCREDIBLE SEAN DIETRICH” & YOU ENRICH MY LIFE MORE THAN YOU CAN IMAGINE!! BOY, I’M ADDING YOU & JAMIE TO MY PRAYER LIST!!!!!!
Brenda - July 8, 2022 4:31 pm
Sean, many of us have ‘been there done that” as they say in your situation. I’m a breast cancer survivor and I have had my share of scans. I’m happy to say I’m a 22 year Survivor. It is very daunting to have all those tests that definitely put the f word FEAR in ones life. I was so relieved to read of your perfect test results that you received and you were in your happy place with Jamie and baseball! Wonderful 😊 ❤️
Jeanne - July 8, 2022 4:38 pm
I am so glad everything was clear… I was holding my breath the whole time I was reading it.🙏🏻🙏🏻
elizabethroosje - July 8, 2022 4:43 pm
Oh Sean!! And Jamie!!!! ❤ thank God!🙏
Jan - July 8, 2022 4:51 pm
Praises for a good report! So very thankful. That waiting time can put us in a very good place with our souls, however. Not fun—- but good. Grateful for the good report. And i love that you chose to move forward in the midst of it!💪🏼
Dianne - July 8, 2022 5:01 pm
Thanks be to God!
nancymariedavis - July 8, 2022 5:09 pm
yes. indeed, yes.
Susie - July 8, 2022 5:13 pm
Glad to hear the great news, Sean.
Sheila Ingram - July 8, 2022 5:20 pm
You are blessed!
Carmen - July 8, 2022 5:39 pm
You left me holding my breath, man. But then, I was able to excel and breathe in a thankful breath. I know that was some kind of tense moment when that phone rang. Glad you are ok, Sean!!!
Mary (aka MaeMae) - July 8, 2022 5:41 pm
Thank you, Lord, for this gift for Sean and those he loves!
Laura Bracey - July 8, 2022 6:09 pm
The waiting is always the worst. Knowing what’s going on let’s you out of the paralysis. So glad your scans came back clear. I know how you felt!
Kathryn - July 8, 2022 6:12 pm
Wonderful news Sean! I’ve said a prayer of thanks for saving this man who makes me laugh, cry, and brings goosebumps with some of his stories. Glad you will be keeping them coming.
Fran A - July 8, 2022 6:12 pm
AMEN!!!
Patricia - July 8, 2022 6:13 pm
Thank you Lord! Happy tears are the best kind of tears! What a blessing!
Susan Kraft - July 8, 2022 6:22 pm
Thankful for your good report.
bunnybeckett - July 8, 2022 6:33 pm
I’m so happy for your good news. Scary stuff, happy ending.
Stay well. I look forward to your writings.
pattymack43 - July 8, 2022 6:33 pm
Praise the Lord!!!
Toni - July 8, 2022 6:34 pm
Thank you Jesus for Sean’s good report. And Dear Lord please be with all that posted their own health concerns. In your name I pray, Amen
Latane Barton - July 8, 2022 6:34 pm
A scary time for you and that sweet wife of yours. I’d been there, done that, except the doc said it wasn’t so good for me. But, I got through it, twenty years ago. So thankful your call made you cry the happy cry!!
Annie Gillespie - July 8, 2022 6:36 pm
Thank you, Lord! God’s obviously realizes you are much needed down here to keep people smiling! 😊❤️🙏
JOANNE LAY - July 8, 2022 6:37 pm
Thank God!
Gloria Rose - July 8, 2022 6:51 pm
They don’t call you if there’s a problem, you have to see your doctor for the results. I know, I have had that experience three times in the last 18 years. Each time I have prayed “Thy will be done…” and I am still here. Congratulations and praise to God for this blessing. You are one of my daily moments of blessings. May God continue to shine on you and your family.
RichardC - July 8, 2022 7:18 pm
Life is short. Eternity is forever.
Sue Adams - July 8, 2022 7:19 pm
Thanks be! Now I can breathe again.
Helene Mewborn - July 8, 2022 7:25 pm
Very thankful for the results of your embarrassing CT Scan!! You Will laugh with Jamie about the test- and thank the Good Lord for the outcome!
MAM - July 8, 2022 7:35 pm
And we’re all crying from happiness! God is taking care of you! We’ll continue to look forward every day to your messages, even when we sometimes have to hold our breaths.
Lisa - July 8, 2022 7:40 pm
So thankful for the good report! We all rejoice with you!!❤️
Alice - July 8, 2022 7:49 pm
Great news! Prayers for your continued good health!
MAM - July 8, 2022 7:53 pm
And to the detractor, Susie, who FINALLY did say she was glad the news was good, when the news is bad, you ask for prayers to our Creator, God! And if God is not ready for you yet, He WILL take care of you! Get a life and some religion, Susie. You’ll be MUCH happier!
Mark Stewart - July 8, 2022 8:03 pm
Our God is AUsome1. I give thanks!
Anne Trawick - July 8, 2022 8:04 pm
Now that is what I call good news!
Linda Moon - July 8, 2022 8:07 pm
Oh my…yesterday I got a good report about my recent scans from my wonderful oncologist whose practice is associated with Brookwood! So, I know just how you feel, and I’m crying right now.
Jerrilynn - July 8, 2022 8:33 pm
I call this a God wink! So glad you’re ol
Peggy ALEXANDER - July 8, 2022 9:05 pm
To Susie, When the news is bad, We STILL say GOD IS GOOD!!!
artwimberley - July 8, 2022 9:47 pm
Having lost two family members this week to cancer, I can totally understand your relief. What a blessing for you! I’m so thrilled. Yippppeeeeee!
Sherrie - July 8, 2022 11:09 pm
God is Good, Don,t know what I,d do without you.
Susan Kennedy - July 8, 2022 11:45 pm
Thank you Lord! We need Sean!!
Anissa - July 9, 2022 12:05 am
So glad everything was ok.
Larry Popwell - July 9, 2022 12:37 am
Rest assured, the results can change your life, as they did – good – this time.
Survivor of 2 – not 1 – heart attacks and a stroke for measure. Not bragging that I consume 28 pills to stay a little longer.
In Him who knows all.
vickilclem - July 9, 2022 1:18 am
Praise the Lord for your good news, I know that must have been so scary waiting.
Charlotte - July 9, 2022 2:12 am
Blessed!!!!
Erica Mininger - July 9, 2022 2:24 am
Breathe easy Sean! So thankful with you!
Beverly Wynn - July 9, 2022 2:28 am
Life is good!!!✌🏻🤟🏻⚡️☺️
Harryette Miller Burnette - July 9, 2022 2:30 am
Sean: We received a call similar to yours but it was from the Nursing facility my late father-in-law was in for his final days; however, we had convinced ourselves he still had many days left. That was not the case. On the Monday morning after Mothers’ Day 2003, 2 7:48 a.m. the call came through & asked if this was the Burnette residence, which I told her it was: she went on to say I thought you would want to know your dad, or father in law, expired a few minutes ago. You are welcome to come by the home or you can wait until the morgue technician comes to pick up the body. We told her to please hold the body we as a family wanted to gather and say what we could to one another to try to encourage & uplift all the siblings. Not a call you really want to receive. Blessings to you for getting a good report w/a clean bill of health.
Beverly Schaffer - July 9, 2022 2:39 am
Those are the sweetest words in the world. And then your words are, “Praise you, Jesus”!
Cathy - July 9, 2022 3:57 am
I am so glad that your scans came back clear! I and my husband both have gone through the tests where they didn’t. We got the treatments and we’re both doing fine. I totally understand the feeling of relief and those happy tears. But knowing you and Jamie, I’m sure if the call ever comes where they are not, y’all will stand fast and humor your way through! God bless and keep you!
Heather - July 9, 2022 4:03 am
❤️❤️❤️
Catherine - July 9, 2022 4:19 am
Thank You!
Chasity Davis Ritter - July 9, 2022 5:00 am
I’m glad as always that got shared with us. You know if it would have been serious we’d have all been praying for you. It’s a scary thing. Today is 3 years 10 months and 1 day since cancer took my dad. Still haven’t gotten over that one. Last year in February my best friend and I both had follow up mammograms and ultra sounds to “just to be sure” I’m ok for now but she had cancer and ended up going through a double mastectomy. I’m glad you’re ok Sean. I’m glad they’re keeping a. Good eye on you. And I’m super sorry you lost your friend this week and the others too. You’re still in my prayers.
Christina - July 9, 2022 5:36 am
And all of God’s people say, yay!
Katherine - July 9, 2022 11:43 am
I am so very thankful you got good news!!!
NancyB . - July 9, 2022 12:44 pm
When I began reading the first paragraph of your column today, my stomach clinched a bit. “He going to gloat over the Braves beating the Cardinals 3 out of 4 games this week” (Ardent, fanatical Cardinal fan here.) “That’s okay. I can take it. The Braves are an excellent team. They played well.” To say the Cardinals did not is a gross understatement. So I can take some gloating. Then I read the first line of the second paragraph and forgot about baseball.
Oh no! Not Sean! I have too many friends fighting that disease now. Many others who have lost that war. Sean can’t join the ranks of either group. I had tears in my eyes by the end of your appointment. I’ve had the scans. I know the fear. “We will all help him and Jamie get through this. We will pray, support, love, hug from afar. We will be there with him every step of the way.”
I was glad you went to a ballgame. I got that. You see, I went to (old) Busch Stadium while waiting for my results. Spur of the moment. Three hour drive. Bleacher seats. But I needed to be anywhere else other than sitting at home willing the phone to ring.
Then your phone rang. You are OK! Your scans were clear! I started crying right there with you. I felt the relief you felt. I knew why you were crying in the midst of thousands of people while eating a $22 hot dog. You are clear! Your body does not have cancer! I am so happy for both you and Jamie! Keep on living life! Keep on having fun! Keep on cheering for the Braves. They need fans too. (Oh, and my tests were clear also and the Cardinals won that game.)
Ellen Hunsucker - July 9, 2022 1:12 pm
Praise the Lord! So happy for your good report! The world needs your unique brand of humor and pathos and frankly, I couldn’t start my day without it!
Karen Snyder - July 9, 2022 2:49 pm
Big exhale when I got to the phoned results. God is truly good. And yes, Susie, He is good all the time. ❤️
But for the grace of God go I - July 9, 2022 3:11 pm
I’ve had several similar brushes with Mr. Death…sure puts things into perspective. Give the credit to the Man upstairs. Glad you are OK, we need all the good guys we can muster these days!
Lisa Miller - July 9, 2022 5:25 pm
So happy for your news. Mornings just wouldn’t be the same without Sean of the South every morning in our inboxes!
Gloria Van Nostrand - July 9, 2022 5:34 pm
I’m so VERY thankful for your health. God has plans for you.
Eve - July 9, 2022 5:56 pm
With relief for Sean, let’s all send special prayers for Pat Nichols and Tom McCoppin’s wife. (Their comments above ) ❤️❤️
Carolyn - July 9, 2022 7:49 pm
Stop eating those hotdogs! Those will kill you for sure.
Sandra Howell - July 9, 2022 8:13 pm
Praise God! I have enjoyed your columns for the last few years and look forward to them! Please keep at it!!
Frances montgomery - July 10, 2022 2:01 am
Praise God!!!
CHARALEEN WRIGHT - July 10, 2022 11:16 pm
❤️
Jill E. McCormick - July 11, 2022 1:25 am
So thankful for such a positive phone call!
Carole Lea in Dothan, AL - July 11, 2022 11:48 am
Thanks be to God!!
Linda Hill - July 11, 2022 12:32 pm
My life is hard enough, misery & heartache aplenty. Good stuff to be grateful for too, of course – but I couldn’t bear the thought of losing you. So thankful to Almighty God that your scan was clear🙏
B. D. Thrasher - July 12, 2022 1:41 pm
Great news, my man. You and i are definitely moving up in the batting order, bro. Love the 40oz Coors….
Karen Taghi Zoghi - July 13, 2022 7:17 pm
Beautiful. The best news received at a game. I love it.
Sandra Jones - July 14, 2022 11:53 am
What a relief ! We all share your worry and your joy !
Deb Gouge - July 14, 2022 6:44 pm
Absolutely brilliant!! You see, I had my chemo port installed 14 years ago this Saturday. It was my grandfather’s birthday. I had my first chemo the next day- my older son’s birthday. My hair fell out on my younger son’s birthday. One more thing: I came home from my mastectomy on MY birthday that June.
Every family birthday for the rest of that whole year was, well, eventful. BUT I learned so very much. Milestones are there for a reason. And we owe it to ourselves to find laughter in everything AND to “make fun a priority.” I am so glad you didn’t become a pledge to this fraternity/sorority that none of us survivors even rushed. For the record: my husband and I celebrated the anniversary of my FINAL chemo three years ago in Truist park. We watched one of my students perform on the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday night and saw the Bravos win on a walk-off grand slam on Sunday afternoon. Thank you for putting us in the park with you today. 💕
suzi - July 18, 2022 10:30 am
I was holding my breath with you Sean, so grateful 🙏🏼
Duke Allen Hudson - July 18, 2022 2:41 pm
i just read this today Sean, and i cried with you!!
Becky Oates - July 19, 2022 12:02 pm
My heart is singing with you! I’m 4 years out of diagnosis and treatment. Thankful this isn’t your path, even tho I’ve learned so much about the generosity of compassion!! Keep telling your story!!!