Search
-
October 11, 2018When Stan Nnochirionye, a member of Saint Joseph in Ada, heard the shocking news from his doctor that no one wants to hear that he has lung cancer, many thoughts went through his mind. He focused on just one – his 10-year-old son.
Nnochirionye thought about how he would make sure Noah would grow up in the Catholic faith. His doctor gave him a low chance of survival, and he was worried that if he doesn’t survive, Noah would not be raised Catholic. Stan became resolute that he had to be a survivor “for Noah and his faith.”
Nnochirionye said Laura Miller, parish nurse at Saint Joseph, reminded him that he and Blessed Stanley Rother shared the same name and to pray for his intercession. Despite one original setback where his lung tumors grew, he recently received results that showed his tumors had shrunk by 60 percent to 80 percent.
He attributes these results to the prayers of the parish family of Saint Joseph, his family and friends, and to the intercession of Blessed Stanley Rother.
Rick Miller, a parishioner of Saint Joseph who has driven Nnochirionye to his treatments, said, “Stan has an upbeat personality. During these hard times, he always has a smile on his face and is full of optimism. Never once have there been any words of giving up or negativity during our commute to his chemo treatments. After returning to Ada from his chemo treatments, he is eager to pick up Noah.”
Laura Miller added, “Stan's positive attitude, faith and trust in God has definitely kept him going through this rough ordeal. I remember talking with Stan just after his diagnosis and listening to him express how worried he was about how much to share with Noah. I think this definitely has strengthened their father-son and faith relationship.”
Nnochirionye was one of eight children. He emigrated from Nigeria nearly 40 years ago to pursue his education in the United States. He earned a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree and a doctorate degree.
He has helped the Ada parish and community in many ways, including serving as a lector, Eucharistic minister, usher, member of the Knights of Columbus and coaching soccer. He is a retired professor and coach from East Central University. Upon retirement in 2016, he continued to teach classes as an adjunct professor in the communications department.
Nnochirionye said he hopes to continue to serve the parish and community for many years to come.
Charles Albert is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.
