Bishop J. Jon Bruno of Los Angeles, was discharged to his home from the hospital yesterday after being diagnosed with leukemia.
He will stay at his Episcopalian (sic) residence for two weeks, Bruno said Thursday in an open letter. During that time, Bruno said, he will be in protective isolation to decrease the chance of infection.
After two weeks, Bruno will return to City of Hope for three weeks during which he will receive chemotherapy. He will then return home and then undergo another three-week stay at the hospital.
“My physician team has indicated I may fully recover,” Bruno said. “I believe without a doubt that this miraculous type of recovery has only been possible because of the outpouring of prayer from our faith communities.”
Bruno writes to his diocese about the status of his treatment for cancer.
Dear Friends,
It has been particularly amazing and uplifting to know what a part each of you has had in my care over the past month. Even though this illness will be an ongoing challenge in our lives, the first phase is complete.
My physician team has indicated I may fully recover and believe it is because of the quick assessment and diagnosis at Good Samaritan Hospital and the treatment and care I have received at the City of Hope. They also say, and I believe without a doubt, that this miraculous type of recovery has only been possible because of the outpouring of prayer from our faith communities.
Today I leave the City of Hope after a month-long stay and will return to the episcopal residence for continued recovery although still in protective isolation to minimize the chance of infection. Following ten to fourteen days of recuperation I will return to the City of Hope for a three-week stay for an additional course of chemotherapy, again followed by recuperation at home, and then another three-week stay at the City of Hope for a final course of chemotherapy. As I write this letter, my physician is telling me I am in complete remission and the treatment plan described above is being done to ensure there will not be a recurrence of my cancer.
I am absolutely thankful for the love, compassion and faithfulness of our community. I cannot recall how many times over my years of ministry I have said to others, “I will hold you in my prayers,” and now I am the one who has been overwhelmed by feeling your hands and hearts holding me in love and safety as God and you and my caregivers participate in my treatment and recovery. I long to be in your midst and give thanks to each of you for every prayer, every tear, vigil, healing service, card, email, guestbook entry on Caring Bridge, drawing, cartoon, picture, and encouraging word.
In conclusion, I ask for your continued prayers and that you include thanksgiving for the staff of the City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center as they have cared for me as agents of God’s love and compassion.
My life and your faithful compassion have been intertwined as hands in prayer. You truly have lived into Paul’s letter to the Galatians to “Bear one another’s burdens.”
Mary and I send our love, and we will stay in touch with you and keep you advised of my progress. With gratitude I remain,
Yours in Christ,
+ J. Jon Bruno