It's hard to believe we are halfway through June! I have too many things on my to do list!
I put a lot about Andrew in my May post, but I know many have asked about his upcoming surgery. We will go to Duke on July 10, and his first surgery is July 11. It is brain surgery to place electrodes in his brain for more testing. It will be a very tough several days, I have been told many times, and we are starting to feel a little anxious and would appreciate prayers. I got a new Bible study that I hope to start in the next day or so to combat what I am feeling! I'll go to the Truth and get that encouragement and confidence that only comes from God. They will not surgically remove the electrodes until July 18. I still do not have an exact date when we will be home, but hopefully right after that. Andrew will probably take about six weeks to recover - many different things can happen. Then they will set his next surgery. We appreciate those who know it's coming and have checked on him and us.
It's been another trying few weeks. Our guest makes things different at home. We appreciate the boys' help with all of that. We pray every day to be able to figure out how to care with love and grace. We are not sure what will be in the near future; but, for right now, everyone seems safe and secure. Tonight has been tougher; but that seems to be the pattern, according to what I have read.
We lost a sweet friend today. She was only 81. Pete had visited with Jewel and Hobert twice recently, but I told him I would go the next time. And now, I will see her next time in Heaven. My last visit with her was at her home, and I could have sat there for hours more to listen to stories of their younger days. We are praying for Hobert, such an example of a friend and husband to Jewel. We will miss her sweet encouragement and timely cards in the mail.
Andrew had an appointment in Charlotte yesterday with Dr. Patel. We got his "number" today, and it was 905. Excellent. It was under 190 when we started this journey with Dr. Patel about seven years ago - low enough for people to be in the hospital too sick to function. We love Dr. Patel and his commitment to helping Andrew and others. We were shocked to find out he had been in a terrible accident, since we last saw him. In the last few months, he has been recovering from a 40 foot fall onto lava rock (harder than concrete) in Hawaii. He did not hit his head, but he had a pelvic fracture and pretty much destroyed his right forearm. He also had internal bleeding. We are so thankful he is still here!
Thanks for praying for us. Thanks for asking about Andrew. We are anxious to get this next step behind us!
Friday, June 15, 2018
Tuesday, May 29, 2018
May Update
I cannot even believe it's the end of May! How fast this year is going! I knew it would be a hard year- because of Andrew's surgery looming and because Pop was so sick. We did not expect Pop to die so early in the year. We miss him so much. We find so much peace and comfort in knowing he knew Jesus on this earth, and we will see him again.
Andrew continues to have seizures, even on three of the strongest seizure meds. He graduated in May! He has one more internship to finish up his second major. We are so happy to have two ASU graduates. He goes to the doctor on Monday, June 4th, at Duke. We will see the neurologist one more time before we go in July. He should go in on July 10 and stay 7-9 days. We are so thankful that Laura and Whitney will keep Sam this time. The room is so tiny. It is hard to be "trapped" in that room that is overrun with equipment and many people at times. But at least we know more what to expect, once we get into the room. The placement of the electrodes is brain surgery too, a preliminary one. He will spend the first night in ICU. I have a new friend who went through this with her husband, and she has already given me some good information. I have one more person I can contact, but something keeps popping up when I try. I know Pete is the one to spend the night in ICU with him. When he had his accident, I remember thinking I could not do the Duke trip alone. We are trying to think of what we can take that will make things easier.
His last seizure was a week ago on Friday. Sam, Andrew, and I were so excited to go to Event Church in downtown Bristol (on the 18th of each month over the next few months). We were spending the night to have a yard sale with family beside Boulder Look. I had left to take my mom and Sam home. Laura called me just as they had gotten out of the car at my parents' house. I flew back to downtown. The firemen came from the station across the street (Thanks to Cindy for getting them). They gave him oxygen which helped him bounce back fast. Two of my nephews took him over the next two days. He went bowling, landscaping, eating, picking up washers and dryers, and just had a good time hanging out with them. It was the first time a lot of my family had seen him have a seizure. He tried to tell my brother-in-law he was having a seizure, but he could only say his name - Dwayne. And Dwayne instantly knew. Dwayne and Whitney helped him down, so he did not fall or hit his head. My dad prayed for him with all of the others still there. I am so grateful for the help. God shows me that He has it even when I am not there.
Back to Duke. It does make a difference that we will be working with the neurosurgeon's team. I get the feeling it will be much different than random people, like last time, which was hit or miss. He can have visitors, but he may not know they are there. I know Will and Peter are planning to come over the weekend to check on him. I am trying to prepare the "things" we need and to be prepared and peaceful in my heart about all of this. It's tough. I am looking forward to it being over.
If all goes well with that hospital stay and testing, he will have the brain surgery about six weeks later. No dates on that yet. That will take planning. The actual stay may not be as long, but he has a chance of lots of temporary things like paralysis that we need to plan for - if that is what they still say after more testing. We will be asking for and taking all of the prayers people are willing to pray. I don't know what we'd do without our praying people.
Pete is recovering well from the accident. He goes to the ortho again Monday to have his neck rechecked. We had my mom and aunt pull a good sized sliver of glass out of his forehead at lunch on Mother's Day. I got another big piece out this weekend - a month later! We hope that is it. We are very thankful. Dealing with the other driver's insurance has been a pain, and we just got a big list of things to do today. Evidently, no one is in any hurry to get what is needed. No one calls back. It has taken a lot of time and effort that we really don't have right now. The truck is gone. That brought on a lot of tears - the mean person assigned to deal with that. It's like the grumpy lady that comes to Boone yard sales and points out that your stuff is dirty or no good or that no one will want it. So she can get a good price - or stick it in her bag and take it for free! That's what he reminded me of! I cried when the truck was gone. But again, we are very thankful it was not worse.
We have someone in our family who used to read this blog, so I have to be careful what I say. This person is very confused and getting worse. We have a guest indefinitely right now. And that can be very challenging. And add to all of the other. But having someone take time out of their busy day and stand at my office door to pray for me yesterday made all of the difference. Some of the weight was definitely lifted. And the promised prayers by text or messages means everything. We appreciate them all. It's sad to see someone in that state. And it's hard when you are not quite sure how to handle things. When Pete had his accident, lots of people said they'd pray. And we appreciate that. But I really appreciate that ones who say they are doing it right then and just pray on the phone or in person or whatever.
I have lots to plan and wrap up before July 10. We are ready for school to be out. Sam has EOG's this week. It has gotten to me - all of the posts and conversations I have heard. I so wish I could drop him off at school and let him be like the other children and learn. But I cannot imagine sitting to take a reading EOG that you cannot read. But that is exactly what he faced today. This boy came outside the other night to sweep off the driveway and walkway in front of the house so I could go in and watch Jeopardy with Pete and his mom. He appears at the car when I drive up and need help with groceries. He slips up and gives a quick hug even before I knew I needed it. He is just the most thoughtful and precious boy ever. But sometimes I hate that he is so farsighted and left handed and has so many learning disabilities and the diabetes is endless and he is shy and can get very anxious and it's so hard to watch all of that. But then I saw another story on Finn.
And I realized that things could be so much worse. We are working on the reading at ASU. We have not given up. High school is looming soon, and I am praying about that. What is best for him? And I know there are others out there who struggle - the student who has a hard time or the parent watching and trying to make the best decisions to help them.
But I see this family praying for another million or so dollars to be raised so that a clinical drug to cure Hunter Syndrome can finish being made. It has been started, but they are still raising money. There are less than 500 boys who have this syndrome. It is horrible, and I cannot imagine how Finn's parents feel as they hope and pray the money will be raised, the drug manufactured, and see their son cured. Thank goodness they believe in Jesus. I don't know how they would go through this without Him. And I prayed about my "problems" and concerns again and asked God to guide me. And I am praying for Finn and his family. His name is Finn Muedder, if you want to read his story and help with the $15 donations. You can give more, but they are asking 100,000 people to give $15.
I sometimes wish I had tons of money, so that I could give gifts to people who help us or to people who are having a hard time. It is humbling to be on the receiving end of gifts. One day several years ago, my mom pulled a wad of money her church had taken up to help us with some medical expenses. She said she was sorry. That she knew I would rather be a giver than a receiver. But she said that sometimes we need to be willing to be on the receiving end. And it's not because I don't want sickness in my family - that I would pay to have it happen to someone else! When I went to pick up my car the other day, I had to unexpectedly get two new tires because of one nail! It wasn't the end of the world but was one more thing. When I walked in, all of the service people were happy to tell me someone had paid over half my bill! I was so thankful and humbled by that. The list of people who knew was very short, so I know who it was. And that person only did it to be helpful and not to be known or recognized. I thanked her anyway. So I know Finn's family wishes they did not have to ask. But it's not just for their son. It's for all of the boys who have this awful disease and all of those who will be diagnosed. I am thankful to Robin Leonard for sharing and bringing this back to my attention. I missed it the first time.
I am getting the boys' pictures done on Saturday. Pete started grooming Lucy, so she will need to wear a bandanna - because she is on the waiting list for the professional grooming. Part of my boys will only wear certain things, so I have had to really work to coordinate what I have so far! I have wanted this sweet friend to take their pictures since they were very little, so I decided it was time. Before Andrew goes to the hospital and may have a month recovery like last Labor Day. Knowing we got some great pictures will somehow comfort me. I appreciate her working us into her very busy schedule.
This is much longer than I meant for it to be. I am still on the tough journey. Some days it's hard to sing or hard to sing without breaking down and crying a lot. But I will keep on singing. He is right here with me. He won't leave. The days may be tough sometimes, but that is when I can see Him more. You all know me. I cannot do anything. Only through Christ and with God's help does anything of mine ever get done.
One of the guys at church is going to sing this song in the next week or so at church. And I cannot wait! I love the words, so I will share them here. Google it. You will be encouraged too. Thanks for reading and for praying. I am trying not to skip to Thanksgiving or Christmas in my mind and just hang on until then. I want to walk through this year leaning on Him and confidently watching to see what He will do and how He will work (not me) in all of these situations. And there is so much work to do. I sometimes feel like a target, but that is a good thing. I have people on my heart and mind who don't know Jesus. And sharing Him is most important. We are talking ETERNAL investment and decisions. Thanks again!
Do It Again ~ Elevation Worship
[Verse 1]
Walking around these walls
I thought by now they'd fall
But You have never failed me yet
Waiting for change to come
Knowing the battle's won
For You have never failed me yet
[Chorus 1]
Your promise still stands
Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness
I'm still in Your hands
This is my confidence, You've never failed me yet
[Verse 2]
I know the night won't last
Your Word will come to pass
My heart will sing Your praise again
Jesus, You're still enough
Keep me within Your love
My heart will sing Your praise again
[Chorus 2]
Your promise still stands
Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness
I'm still in Your hands
This is my confidence, You've never failed
Your promise still stands
Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness
I'm still in Your hands
This is my confidence, You've never failed me yet
[Bridge]
I've seen You move, You move the mountains
And I believe, I'll see You do it again
You made a way, where there was no way
And I believe, I'll see You do it again
I've seen You move, You move the mountains
And I believe, I'll see You do it again
You made a way, where there was no way
And I believe, I'll see You do it again
I've seen You move, You move the mountains
And I believe, I'll see You do it again
You made a way, where there was no way
And I believe, I'll see You do it again
I'll see You do it again
[Chorus 2]
Your promise still stands
Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness
I'm still in Your hands
This is my confidence, You've never failed
Your promise still stands
Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness
I'm still in Your hands
This is my confidence, You've never failed me yet
[Outro]
Oh, You've never failed me yet
And I never will forget
You've never failed me yet
And I never will forget
Andrew continues to have seizures, even on three of the strongest seizure meds. He graduated in May! He has one more internship to finish up his second major. We are so happy to have two ASU graduates. He goes to the doctor on Monday, June 4th, at Duke. We will see the neurologist one more time before we go in July. He should go in on July 10 and stay 7-9 days. We are so thankful that Laura and Whitney will keep Sam this time. The room is so tiny. It is hard to be "trapped" in that room that is overrun with equipment and many people at times. But at least we know more what to expect, once we get into the room. The placement of the electrodes is brain surgery too, a preliminary one. He will spend the first night in ICU. I have a new friend who went through this with her husband, and she has already given me some good information. I have one more person I can contact, but something keeps popping up when I try. I know Pete is the one to spend the night in ICU with him. When he had his accident, I remember thinking I could not do the Duke trip alone. We are trying to think of what we can take that will make things easier.
His last seizure was a week ago on Friday. Sam, Andrew, and I were so excited to go to Event Church in downtown Bristol (on the 18th of each month over the next few months). We were spending the night to have a yard sale with family beside Boulder Look. I had left to take my mom and Sam home. Laura called me just as they had gotten out of the car at my parents' house. I flew back to downtown. The firemen came from the station across the street (Thanks to Cindy for getting them). They gave him oxygen which helped him bounce back fast. Two of my nephews took him over the next two days. He went bowling, landscaping, eating, picking up washers and dryers, and just had a good time hanging out with them. It was the first time a lot of my family had seen him have a seizure. He tried to tell my brother-in-law he was having a seizure, but he could only say his name - Dwayne. And Dwayne instantly knew. Dwayne and Whitney helped him down, so he did not fall or hit his head. My dad prayed for him with all of the others still there. I am so grateful for the help. God shows me that He has it even when I am not there.
Back to Duke. It does make a difference that we will be working with the neurosurgeon's team. I get the feeling it will be much different than random people, like last time, which was hit or miss. He can have visitors, but he may not know they are there. I know Will and Peter are planning to come over the weekend to check on him. I am trying to prepare the "things" we need and to be prepared and peaceful in my heart about all of this. It's tough. I am looking forward to it being over.
If all goes well with that hospital stay and testing, he will have the brain surgery about six weeks later. No dates on that yet. That will take planning. The actual stay may not be as long, but he has a chance of lots of temporary things like paralysis that we need to plan for - if that is what they still say after more testing. We will be asking for and taking all of the prayers people are willing to pray. I don't know what we'd do without our praying people.
Pete is recovering well from the accident. He goes to the ortho again Monday to have his neck rechecked. We had my mom and aunt pull a good sized sliver of glass out of his forehead at lunch on Mother's Day. I got another big piece out this weekend - a month later! We hope that is it. We are very thankful. Dealing with the other driver's insurance has been a pain, and we just got a big list of things to do today. Evidently, no one is in any hurry to get what is needed. No one calls back. It has taken a lot of time and effort that we really don't have right now. The truck is gone. That brought on a lot of tears - the mean person assigned to deal with that. It's like the grumpy lady that comes to Boone yard sales and points out that your stuff is dirty or no good or that no one will want it. So she can get a good price - or stick it in her bag and take it for free! That's what he reminded me of! I cried when the truck was gone. But again, we are very thankful it was not worse.
We have someone in our family who used to read this blog, so I have to be careful what I say. This person is very confused and getting worse. We have a guest indefinitely right now. And that can be very challenging. And add to all of the other. But having someone take time out of their busy day and stand at my office door to pray for me yesterday made all of the difference. Some of the weight was definitely lifted. And the promised prayers by text or messages means everything. We appreciate them all. It's sad to see someone in that state. And it's hard when you are not quite sure how to handle things. When Pete had his accident, lots of people said they'd pray. And we appreciate that. But I really appreciate that ones who say they are doing it right then and just pray on the phone or in person or whatever.
I have lots to plan and wrap up before July 10. We are ready for school to be out. Sam has EOG's this week. It has gotten to me - all of the posts and conversations I have heard. I so wish I could drop him off at school and let him be like the other children and learn. But I cannot imagine sitting to take a reading EOG that you cannot read. But that is exactly what he faced today. This boy came outside the other night to sweep off the driveway and walkway in front of the house so I could go in and watch Jeopardy with Pete and his mom. He appears at the car when I drive up and need help with groceries. He slips up and gives a quick hug even before I knew I needed it. He is just the most thoughtful and precious boy ever. But sometimes I hate that he is so farsighted and left handed and has so many learning disabilities and the diabetes is endless and he is shy and can get very anxious and it's so hard to watch all of that. But then I saw another story on Finn.
And I realized that things could be so much worse. We are working on the reading at ASU. We have not given up. High school is looming soon, and I am praying about that. What is best for him? And I know there are others out there who struggle - the student who has a hard time or the parent watching and trying to make the best decisions to help them.
But I see this family praying for another million or so dollars to be raised so that a clinical drug to cure Hunter Syndrome can finish being made. It has been started, but they are still raising money. There are less than 500 boys who have this syndrome. It is horrible, and I cannot imagine how Finn's parents feel as they hope and pray the money will be raised, the drug manufactured, and see their son cured. Thank goodness they believe in Jesus. I don't know how they would go through this without Him. And I prayed about my "problems" and concerns again and asked God to guide me. And I am praying for Finn and his family. His name is Finn Muedder, if you want to read his story and help with the $15 donations. You can give more, but they are asking 100,000 people to give $15.
I sometimes wish I had tons of money, so that I could give gifts to people who help us or to people who are having a hard time. It is humbling to be on the receiving end of gifts. One day several years ago, my mom pulled a wad of money her church had taken up to help us with some medical expenses. She said she was sorry. That she knew I would rather be a giver than a receiver. But she said that sometimes we need to be willing to be on the receiving end. And it's not because I don't want sickness in my family - that I would pay to have it happen to someone else! When I went to pick up my car the other day, I had to unexpectedly get two new tires because of one nail! It wasn't the end of the world but was one more thing. When I walked in, all of the service people were happy to tell me someone had paid over half my bill! I was so thankful and humbled by that. The list of people who knew was very short, so I know who it was. And that person only did it to be helpful and not to be known or recognized. I thanked her anyway. So I know Finn's family wishes they did not have to ask. But it's not just for their son. It's for all of the boys who have this awful disease and all of those who will be diagnosed. I am thankful to Robin Leonard for sharing and bringing this back to my attention. I missed it the first time.
I am getting the boys' pictures done on Saturday. Pete started grooming Lucy, so she will need to wear a bandanna - because she is on the waiting list for the professional grooming. Part of my boys will only wear certain things, so I have had to really work to coordinate what I have so far! I have wanted this sweet friend to take their pictures since they were very little, so I decided it was time. Before Andrew goes to the hospital and may have a month recovery like last Labor Day. Knowing we got some great pictures will somehow comfort me. I appreciate her working us into her very busy schedule.
This is much longer than I meant for it to be. I am still on the tough journey. Some days it's hard to sing or hard to sing without breaking down and crying a lot. But I will keep on singing. He is right here with me. He won't leave. The days may be tough sometimes, but that is when I can see Him more. You all know me. I cannot do anything. Only through Christ and with God's help does anything of mine ever get done.
One of the guys at church is going to sing this song in the next week or so at church. And I cannot wait! I love the words, so I will share them here. Google it. You will be encouraged too. Thanks for reading and for praying. I am trying not to skip to Thanksgiving or Christmas in my mind and just hang on until then. I want to walk through this year leaning on Him and confidently watching to see what He will do and how He will work (not me) in all of these situations. And there is so much work to do. I sometimes feel like a target, but that is a good thing. I have people on my heart and mind who don't know Jesus. And sharing Him is most important. We are talking ETERNAL investment and decisions. Thanks again!
Do It Again ~ Elevation Worship
[Verse 1]
Walking around these walls
I thought by now they'd fall
But You have never failed me yet
Waiting for change to come
Knowing the battle's won
For You have never failed me yet
[Chorus 1]
Your promise still stands
Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness
I'm still in Your hands
This is my confidence, You've never failed me yet
[Verse 2]
I know the night won't last
Your Word will come to pass
My heart will sing Your praise again
Jesus, You're still enough
Keep me within Your love
My heart will sing Your praise again
[Chorus 2]
Your promise still stands
Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness
I'm still in Your hands
This is my confidence, You've never failed
Your promise still stands
Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness
I'm still in Your hands
This is my confidence, You've never failed me yet
[Bridge]
I've seen You move, You move the mountains
And I believe, I'll see You do it again
You made a way, where there was no way
And I believe, I'll see You do it again
I've seen You move, You move the mountains
And I believe, I'll see You do it again
You made a way, where there was no way
And I believe, I'll see You do it again
I've seen You move, You move the mountains
And I believe, I'll see You do it again
You made a way, where there was no way
And I believe, I'll see You do it again
I'll see You do it again
[Chorus 2]
Your promise still stands
Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness
I'm still in Your hands
This is my confidence, You've never failed
Your promise still stands
Great is Your faithfulness, faithfulness
I'm still in Your hands
This is my confidence, You've never failed me yet
[Outro]
Oh, You've never failed me yet
And I never will forget
You've never failed me yet
And I never will forget
Monday, April 30, 2018
Pete's Accident
After a great Saturday at the track meet celebrating Coach Weaver's upcoming retirement, our Sunday was not that great!
Pete had gone to bed early Saturday night. I had waited up on Andrew and gone to bed late. I did not know he had left extremely early to go and clean an office and listen to some commentary and sermons and finish getting ready for Sunday at church. He often goes early, just not that early.
A little after 2:00 am, my phone rang. It's eerie when the phone rings in the still of the night. I was really really tired, so the first miracle is that I heard it and picked up. It's not unusual for his phone to randomly call me, so I was not even sure he was really calling! I heard his voice and his heavy breathing. There was a sort of panic or urgency in his voice, and it did not sound like him at all. He said he'd been in an automobile accident and needed me to call 911. Of course I was hopping out of bed and about to panic all at once. I told myself, quickly, to calm down and asked where he was. He told me he was at Deerfield and Wilson's Ridge. Then I realized I had to hang up to call 911. I told him I would call and get there ASAP.
I yelled at Andrew and Will. I envisioned him at the intersection of Wilson's Ridge and Bamboo and thought maybe he'd gone over the bank. I had NO details, except he was breathing heavily and told me he was hurt.
I called 911 and told the woman what he had said. She started telling me they had another call coming in regarding the same accident. I told her I would go - that I needed to get to him. She told me many times not to go to the accident scene. I told her I had to but that I would not get in the way.
By that time, I had put my contacts in (new glasses are on my short list) and brushed my teeth, pulled on some clothes, and gotten Will and Andrew up. I called Pete who said he was okay, but I could tell he was not. Will drove us quickly...the wrong way. I told him to go to Bamboo. When we drove past the fire department, I noticed the trucks were both there. I did not see any lights...or anything. I said, "Only I would go the wrong way to an emergency!" He cut over Wilson's Ridge, and we saw the firetruck in the middle of the intersection. He stopped at the stop sign and let me out, while he parked the van down past the used car lot. I ran up to Pete who was propped up on the front bumper of the firetruck with a fireman checking him over. It was dark, and the lights were all flashing. The whole right side of his face was covered with blood. His shirt had blood all over it. So did his shorts. And his shoes. He was clutching his Bible that had blood on it. I wondered where all of the emergency personnel were. One of the worst intersections in Boone, a horrible wreck, two firemen, and no one else in sight.
I asked Will to take pictures for me. I was afraid Pete would pass out from shock or something. Will put his knee in the truck to get Pete's ironed Sunday clothes, and his pant leg was saturated with blood. Finally, the ambulance came. I checked on the other driver, and he was fine. They put Pete in the ambulance and put a collar on him. They were assessing him, and I wondered where anyone else was. I wondered who would write up the accident.
Finally, a state trooper came. Pete was in the ambulance, so he just asked me what Pete had said. The only things he asked Pete were his name and birth date. I wondered where he would get his information.
Pete just wanted us to take him to the hospital, so he got out of the ambulance. Will waited with him in the car until the trooper gave me the other driver information. The report is not online yet, and the page address he gave me did not work. We went on to the ER and just asked that Hampton's be called to get the truck.
Pete told me that he was heading down Deerfield and saw the other truck coming down Wilson's Ridge. Right before impact, he remembered thinking that that truck did not look like it was going to stop at its stop sign. Next thing he knew, the lights were in his eyes, and he was hit. He knew he was bleeding and could feel it immediately. It was hard for him to see his phone with the blood in his eyes, so he called me, thinking he was going to pass out. He asked me to call 911 and told me where he was. Then he got out after pushing really hard to get his door open, and he walked over to the other bigger, newer truck to check on the other driver. He asked if he was okay, and the young man said he was. Pete asked him if he was a believer, and he said he was. So Pete asked him to pray, because he thought he was going to pass out. I am not sure when that driver called 911 - before or after the prayer, but he was on the phone when I was.
The fire truck got there a few minutes before I did. Even though I called 911 right after Pete called me. I saw on my phone that I talked to Pete less than a minute, called 911, hurried and got ready to leave, and called Pete while we were leaving, about 5-6 minutes after he first called. We went the wrong way, which took a few more minutes. I was confused later about the timing and why the ambulance was not there. We were less than a mile from the fire station and less than two from the medics.
When I called for information today, I learned that the information relayed was that it was only property damage. 911 did not dispatch the ambulance. The firemen called for it AFTER they got there and saw Pete's injuries. I am very frustrated that I told the operator he was breathing heavily and did not sound good. I thought I told her he said he was hurt. Maybe I did not. But I know I told her he was breathing heavily and let her know I was worried.
The 911 operator called me back, but I did not hear my phone and did not listen to her message until today. I just forgot, but I listened to it when I remembered. I have the time she called, and it was a while after I had first called her - 16 minutes. She said they had just dispatched an ambulance. And once again, I felt like a failure for my family in the 911 calling. I tried to be clear and as calm as I could. And it did Pete no good. But Will and I were there to help him, so God worked it out for me to know to go.
Besides all of that, God still worked in the situation. We went to Hampton's to get things from the truck today. I cried a little when I saw it. Our cross country coach at John Battle bought the truck new. Dwayne bought it from him, and Laura drove it as her first vehicle. Then Andrew bought it from Dwayne when he was 16. Andrew always let us use it, and it came in very handy. Andrew has not been able to drive it, since last year; so Pete has used it off and on. Even Will and Peter have had to borrow it in the past months. And it needed to be driven.
Pete's Toyota Camry died a couple of months ago. It was a 1999 model, and he had gotten a good several years out of it. We got a Subaru for him in March, but it needed a new window motor. So it was in the shop all last week. And he was driving Andrew's truck. If he had been in the Camry or the Subaru, I am not sure they could have stopped the big Ford truck the other driver had before it got him. So we are so very thankful that the truck took the hit for him, and that God had him in that truck.
He locked up before we got to the ER. They were not busy and got him on back. They found a small fracture in his C6. He had that huge gash on his head that needed stitches. Will went on back home to check on Andrew and Sam. When the doctor finally came in to stitch up Pete, he started feeling clammy. The doctor did not seem concerned. Then he told me that he felt hot. The doctor said the light was hot. Then his eyes rolled back, his hand drew up, and he started to shake a little bit. I thought he was having a stroke or a seizure. The doctor called for fluids. His blood pressure had dropped. They were pretty efficient, but I did not know them; and I had to text for some reinforcements. Will came and went to help me. And I appreciated him so much. Andrew was okay and was checking Sam for me at home. It was hard to leave them alone. But I had no choice and just asked God to take over. I know He is in control, but I know that I am the one who watches them the most, especially at night.
After Pete's episode, the doctor did more scans and finally got an x-ray of his leg that he kept saying hurt. They stopped us right before we went out the doors to tell us his knee cap had a small fracture, so he got a brace and crutches for that!
He goes next Monday to ortho for his neck and knee. Tomorrow, he goes to Dr. Murrey for the final results of his scan, to have his forehead looked at, and just to let me know that everything has been checked over.
After Friday, I was tired. I feel like I am on "high alert" for a while, and then we settle back in to our normal routine. So Sunday really shook me up. I was not back yet, and then I was back up there again in panic mode I don't mean to be there, but this accident scared me. I am so thankful he is sleeping peacefully right now at home. To see the truck was scary. To see that the other truck could have kept on going scares me. But bottom line is that I know God was there with him.
As for Pete, he is very thankful and sees God's provision. He was also scared, but he is not scared of dying and going to see Jesus. He has been thinking of the things he feels God has for him to do while he is still here. He has certain people on his mind and heart - even people he has not yet met.
And I know that God can be glorified even in this. I am the best example of "I cannot do it" and hope that anything that goes right points to God. Because it's certainly not me. I cannot even call 911 right!
We do thank the firemen and the medics. They are always great.
We thank everyone who has prayed for Pete and Andrew - and the rest of us. We appreciate the visits, calls, texts, food, and everything else. But most of all the prayers.
I know people will start running faster and further in the other direction when they see me in Walmart - either because they don't want my life to "rub" off on them or they are afraid I might start telling them about all of this stuff and their ice cream would melt! Sam told me if I put something on Facebook that it would reach more people, and I would not have to tell the story so many times. Smart boy. I told him I wrote a blog too.
So I will end with this verse that I hold on to this year already...a lot...
"Be joyful in hope
Patient in affliction,
faithful in prayer..." Romans 12:12
The circumstances of my day may not make me "happy", but the JOY of the Lord is my strength and my song. And I pray that Jesus will shine when I am at my weakest. I pray someone will see that He can live in and help them too.
Thanks for praying!
P.S. Andrew ran his 5000 at ASU - at the last outdoor meet at the stadium facility (long story with no definite ending yet) and was only about 20 seconds off his goal time - after the seizure, that was really great!
Friday, April 27, 2018
Another April Update
Andrew was out running this morning in town, and he ended his run near the parking deck on Rivers Street. He felt a seizure coming on, but he is not sure he was able to get all the way down to the ground before it started. He woke up to the medics and assured them he would be fine. He called me 30 minutes later (at least!) AFTER he'd taken a shower and walked to the Student Union. He thinks it's not a big deal, since he is okay. This follows weeks of him not being himself. I know he has not missed any meds. I think one of them is making him loopy some and just slow and out of it. When I got him, he had abrasions on his elbows and said he had something on his head We went to the office and got him checked. He had three nurses and a PA (all very sweet) and others checking on him. I am very concerned about infection with him, so I felt better knowing they cleaned everything well. We came home and put ice on his head; and he slept for a while. He still plans on running at ASU in the morning.
We would appreciate prayers that he can finish his semester. He will graduate one internship short of a double major. I have encouraged him to do that in the fall or next spring. His internship is done for this semester. So that is a relief. Only a few more days of class and two exams.
I think one problem is the medication. He is taking very high doses of the three best seizure meds. And I think it is just wearing on him. But, like the doctor said, these breakthrough seizures are showing that we need to try something else. Peter thinks the running stresses him too much. Pete does not think so. The doctor said there is no rhyme nor reason.
We continue to try to prepare for July. I still have some people to talk to about their experiences.
I have been listening to a new CD from Meredith Andrews, and I love most of the songs. One I have been playing a lot is Impossible. I appreciate the reminder that it is impossible for God to fail me. He won't. Ever. And the devotional I read this morning that I thought related to something else (and it did) really helped me keep a better perspective this afternoon. I'll admit that I was a little grumpy about something else, but not all of this.
I am glad I had not planned on going to see Will Graham tonight in Johnson City. I knew I should not plan on that for some reason! I hope he comes somewhere close again soon. It's hard not to be disappointed to not be able to be where you think you would really benefit!
Thanks to those who pray. We appreciate the prayers so much!
We would appreciate prayers that he can finish his semester. He will graduate one internship short of a double major. I have encouraged him to do that in the fall or next spring. His internship is done for this semester. So that is a relief. Only a few more days of class and two exams.
I think one problem is the medication. He is taking very high doses of the three best seizure meds. And I think it is just wearing on him. But, like the doctor said, these breakthrough seizures are showing that we need to try something else. Peter thinks the running stresses him too much. Pete does not think so. The doctor said there is no rhyme nor reason.
We continue to try to prepare for July. I still have some people to talk to about their experiences.
I have been listening to a new CD from Meredith Andrews, and I love most of the songs. One I have been playing a lot is Impossible. I appreciate the reminder that it is impossible for God to fail me. He won't. Ever. And the devotional I read this morning that I thought related to something else (and it did) really helped me keep a better perspective this afternoon. I'll admit that I was a little grumpy about something else, but not all of this.
I am glad I had not planned on going to see Will Graham tonight in Johnson City. I knew I should not plan on that for some reason! I hope he comes somewhere close again soon. It's hard not to be disappointed to not be able to be where you think you would really benefit!
Thanks to those who pray. We appreciate the prayers so much!
"Impossible"
You’re the one who shut the mouth of the lion
The God who put the giant in the grave
With Your hand You turned the ocean into dry land
All to save
You opened up the eyes of the blind man
You’re the one who calmed the storm and walked on waves
You rose and left an empty tomb behind You
All to save, all to save
It’s impossible for You to fail me
There’s not a day that You won’t go before me
Even when I’m at the end, I will not forget
It’s impossible for You to fail
It’s impossible for You to fail
Your love is deep enough to find me in the valley
And strong enough to lift me from my shame
A Holy King who freely gives me mercy
All to save, all to save
Though I stumble and doubt
You are here even now
Forever faithful, forever faithful
Though I can’t always see
I will choose to believe
That You are faithful, forever faithful
The God who put the giant in the grave
With Your hand You turned the ocean into dry land
All to save
You opened up the eyes of the blind man
You’re the one who calmed the storm and walked on waves
You rose and left an empty tomb behind You
All to save, all to save
It’s impossible for You to fail me
There’s not a day that You won’t go before me
Even when I’m at the end, I will not forget
It’s impossible for You to fail
It’s impossible for You to fail
Your love is deep enough to find me in the valley
And strong enough to lift me from my shame
A Holy King who freely gives me mercy
All to save, all to save
Though I stumble and doubt
You are here even now
Forever faithful, forever faithful
Though I can’t always see
I will choose to believe
That You are faithful, forever faithful
Tuesday, April 10, 2018
April Update
We so appreciate those who continue to pray for and ask about Andrew. He is still slated to go to Duke July 10. He has one more appointment scheduled with the neurologist there in June, so we hope to get more information just before we go. His medication has increased and seems to really affect him. He is not himself when he takes the newest medication at night, so he takes it right before bed. The increase in one of the other medications has been getting to him some days. He is just not himself. One day I told him that we just had to pray our way to July. I know he is tired of all of this. He does not usually get down, so it's hard to see some tough days. But on other days, he just plows through as usual. He is set to graduate in May.
We will miss The Bear, since we will all be at Duke that week. And Andrew and I will miss helping with the Grandfather Mountain Marathon. That is one of our favorite volunteer times, but we hope to pick it up again next year. I need to remember to tell Coach!
Once again, God has been providing; and we just need to look around when we feel overwhelmed. Laura has offered to help with Sam during the time we are at Duke, and that is huge. She is the only one I really feel comfortable with taking care of him at night. The other boys can do it during the day, but the nights are always scariest for me. Peter took a job near Charlotte, and Will is always working. I hope Will will be the one to take care of the house and dogs! So Laura's offer really helps more than she knows. I hope a couple of people will be brave enough to help us with Andrew in his room, in case Pete needs to come home for a day or so. I am thankful for those who have mentioned it, and I know Andrew feels comfortable having them see him in such a state.
I have a new friend at work who has been through all of this with her husband. Her husband is doing well now. She is going to go over some things with me too. And I have another contact I need to make. I am working my way down my long list. July seemed far away, but now it's coming faster!
As I think about what this year still holds, I think about what has already happened. And what is happening right now. I see some of my precious friends who are sick. I see some who are hurting and heartbroken. I see people struggling. And I am trying to let the things that don't matter fall away and not take up time or energy. And I pray. I pray a lot.
One of my most precious friends was having a hard time walking on Easter. She came to lunch at Boulder Look. As I pushed the office chair over to the door to get her, another friend picked her up and carried her the last steps and up the steps. She was grateful and was talking about the friends who let their paralyzed friend down through the roof to get to Jesus. She was comparing us to those friends! She could have been crying and feeling sorry for herself (like I probably would have), but she chose to be thankful and see God's provision. It was clear as day to her. And I will remember that.
I turned 50 in March. That was a tough time for our family still, and my family gave me a low key "surprise" party, as we had Pete's mom with us (and they were being sensitive to her). We had steak and potatoes and salad and my favorite birthday cake. I have not opened gifts in front of people in years! We celebrated Pete too - and Sarah, whose birthday was in in February on the day of Pop's funeral. I got to see friends and family at that time and Easter that I knew God was letting me see and spend time with in anticipation of this summer. I have not dreaded summer like this ever!
My friend Susan send me an audible book by Laura Story - When God Doesn't Fix It. There is a Bible study that goes with it. She wrote the song Blessings. I knew a little of her story, but I had no idea of the twists and turns and ongoing struggles her family has had. The book was such a blessing, because it doesn't end the way a lot of books end. It is all in how Laura Story sees her circumstances. She has given her life and family over to God and trusts Him to work everything out. And that is what I want to do. Then my sister-in-law Cindy (Susan's sister) called me weeks later to tell me I had to read that book! She was so happy I already was! And a friend was doing the Bible study and had told me about it even before! So it's a book worth sharing! I had to buy the paper copy!
Sam has a new endocrinologist as his retired. It went better than I thought it would. And his a1c was down .6! That's huge! And he is taking over more and more. Because of his learning issues, he cannot do everything, but he is coming along. We still go to reading at ASU.
Our new church is a blessing. And people there treat us like they have known and loved us forever. We still see some people from our other churches, and we could not be more thankful for all of those God has brought into our lives.
We are so thankful for God's provision. As we work towards July, we have lots of things to get done and get done well. We appreciate prayers. We want to show others what God does. I would never want anyone to think things will go well, because I was organized or prepared or on top of things. If any of that happens, it will only be because God worked it out. I am trying to get ready the best I can, but I know it's going to be a battle and am trying to get to the point where I am anxious in a good way to see how God works.
Thanks again for praying!
"When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee." Isaiah 43:2
We will miss The Bear, since we will all be at Duke that week. And Andrew and I will miss helping with the Grandfather Mountain Marathon. That is one of our favorite volunteer times, but we hope to pick it up again next year. I need to remember to tell Coach!
Once again, God has been providing; and we just need to look around when we feel overwhelmed. Laura has offered to help with Sam during the time we are at Duke, and that is huge. She is the only one I really feel comfortable with taking care of him at night. The other boys can do it during the day, but the nights are always scariest for me. Peter took a job near Charlotte, and Will is always working. I hope Will will be the one to take care of the house and dogs! So Laura's offer really helps more than she knows. I hope a couple of people will be brave enough to help us with Andrew in his room, in case Pete needs to come home for a day or so. I am thankful for those who have mentioned it, and I know Andrew feels comfortable having them see him in such a state.
I have a new friend at work who has been through all of this with her husband. Her husband is doing well now. She is going to go over some things with me too. And I have another contact I need to make. I am working my way down my long list. July seemed far away, but now it's coming faster!
As I think about what this year still holds, I think about what has already happened. And what is happening right now. I see some of my precious friends who are sick. I see some who are hurting and heartbroken. I see people struggling. And I am trying to let the things that don't matter fall away and not take up time or energy. And I pray. I pray a lot.
One of my most precious friends was having a hard time walking on Easter. She came to lunch at Boulder Look. As I pushed the office chair over to the door to get her, another friend picked her up and carried her the last steps and up the steps. She was grateful and was talking about the friends who let their paralyzed friend down through the roof to get to Jesus. She was comparing us to those friends! She could have been crying and feeling sorry for herself (like I probably would have), but she chose to be thankful and see God's provision. It was clear as day to her. And I will remember that.
I turned 50 in March. That was a tough time for our family still, and my family gave me a low key "surprise" party, as we had Pete's mom with us (and they were being sensitive to her). We had steak and potatoes and salad and my favorite birthday cake. I have not opened gifts in front of people in years! We celebrated Pete too - and Sarah, whose birthday was in in February on the day of Pop's funeral. I got to see friends and family at that time and Easter that I knew God was letting me see and spend time with in anticipation of this summer. I have not dreaded summer like this ever!
My friend Susan send me an audible book by Laura Story - When God Doesn't Fix It. There is a Bible study that goes with it. She wrote the song Blessings. I knew a little of her story, but I had no idea of the twists and turns and ongoing struggles her family has had. The book was such a blessing, because it doesn't end the way a lot of books end. It is all in how Laura Story sees her circumstances. She has given her life and family over to God and trusts Him to work everything out. And that is what I want to do. Then my sister-in-law Cindy (Susan's sister) called me weeks later to tell me I had to read that book! She was so happy I already was! And a friend was doing the Bible study and had told me about it even before! So it's a book worth sharing! I had to buy the paper copy!
Sam has a new endocrinologist as his retired. It went better than I thought it would. And his a1c was down .6! That's huge! And he is taking over more and more. Because of his learning issues, he cannot do everything, but he is coming along. We still go to reading at ASU.
Our new church is a blessing. And people there treat us like they have known and loved us forever. We still see some people from our other churches, and we could not be more thankful for all of those God has brought into our lives.
We are so thankful for God's provision. As we work towards July, we have lots of things to get done and get done well. We appreciate prayers. We want to show others what God does. I would never want anyone to think things will go well, because I was organized or prepared or on top of things. If any of that happens, it will only be because God worked it out. I am trying to get ready the best I can, but I know it's going to be a battle and am trying to get to the point where I am anxious in a good way to see how God works.
Thanks again for praying!
"When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee." Isaiah 43:2
Monday, February 19, 2018
Update on Pop and Andrew ~ February 19, 2018
First, I would like to thank all of you who have prayed for Pop and our family the past months. Pete's dad found out many years ago that he had Granulomatosis, an auto immune disease. He had a biopsy followed by a heart attack (and a stent), and one of the doctors reviewing his case realized what it was. So when he was diagnosed with cancer a couple of years ago, they had to take that into consideration. And when his treatments did not work, his options were limited because of his immune system. He told us in November that his cancer was Stage IV and that he probably had 6-12 months.
Pop and Sarah had gone to Ireland, England, and Scotland in the fall. He had pain in his leg but went anyway. He got it checked when he returned. He had to wait a long while between appointments. Meanwhile, the pain got worse. He started using a cane to get around the house. Then he was in a wheelchair. The cancer actually had moved into his spine, and that made the pain even worse. For months, he was in unrelenting pain with little relief.
Finally, with medication, his pain was under a little better control; but he was confined to his recliner most of the day. Hospice had just started coming and brought a hospital bed. They were working to get a gel pad for the bed, as it was too uncomfortable as it was. That is when Pop fell. He literally broke his neck and was taken to the hospital and then taken on up to the larger hospital in Roanoke. He was in even more pain, obviously. They put him in a big neck brace and put him in palliative care. But he wanted to go home. He fell on a Wednesday, January 31. He came home on Saturday, February 3, by ambulance from Roanoke to Floyd.
Because the children had been with him (and Sarah) at the hospital, I felt like God was nudging me to take a turn caring for him - not just visiting. I went into work on a Sunday after church and worked all afternoon to get my end of month stuff done, because that is what I would have done that week. Peter and I went to Floyd on Monday, February 6. We felt inadequate to care for him, but of course we wanted to help him. We spent some precious quality time with him. Peter had to leave Tuesday late afternoon for a job interview. So Sarah and I took care of Pop until Meg came on Wednesday night. Sarah slept in the recliner next to his bed, and she got me up when she needed me.
Meg came on Wednesday evening, and we noticed a significant increase in his pain, though he would not complain. I stayed until mid-morning on Thursday, when Pete came back. Pete was pretty shaken by the change from Saturday to Thursday. I was pretty overtaken with grief, when I pulled out of their driveway. I had kissed him on the head and told him goodbye. I knew in my heart I would not see him again here - even though we were coming back on Saturday. I knew those days were some of the most precious of my life. Pop was gracious and always telling us what a great job we were doing. We laughed as he teased us a bit. And we wrote down things he said and even recorded a couple of conversations. He was the best patient. I think he accepted that he needed help, and he was thankful for the help we gave ~ even when we struggled with what to do or doing it quickly and efficiently. We figured out how to use a bendy straw and which cups worked best for him to drink around the brace. We also knew he loved his Virginia Tech blanket the best and put it on the top, even if he had two blankets beneath it. Whitney had sent another, so we always had one that was ready to use. He wanted ice cream and candy that a special friend had made and mailed to him and also candy that his pastor had brought from Panama. He was able to talk on the phone a little bit to some dear friends, if we put it on speaker. He had a few special visitors, and his Hospice nurses were angels.
Pop was able to talk a little bit Thursday night. We knew earlier in the day when we rolled him or moved him that the pain was worse and getting even worse. We started giving him more pain medicine and even gave him Tylenol in between to help take the edge off. It was on his list, but he had not wanted it. Meg had made the best drug chart with what to give and when. She also included a description of each pill. I triple checked it when I gave it to him. With Peter or Meg's help, we could put a couple of pills in his mouth to swallow. He did not really know much Friday morning, and the Hospice nurse told Meg not to leave when they came. Meg had been away from home a lot, but she stayed. Pop died that afternoon. Pete and Meg were there with Sarah (Pete's mom) and Charlotte (Pop's sister) and Marianna (his niece).
We know from conversations over the last months that Pop knew Jesus. He knew he was in need of a Savior, and he had accepted Jesus as his Savior. And we take such great comfort in that. His service was in Floyd this past Saturday. It has not hit me that he is gone. We will surely miss him here, but we are so thankful we will see him again. We are so thankful, too, that he is free from the pain he had suffered for so long.
I am sorry that all of my boys did not get to see Pop one more time before he died. Peter did, and Pop actually asked for him a lot to do things. Peter was so great with him. He would pull the velcro straps a bit on his neck brace to help Pop feel some relief ~ even though there was nothing we could do with it. They had all seen him on Christmas, and some after. Andrew and Sam were coming up on Saturday, and Pop knew that. He also told me a few things about Will ~ and I will remember those encouraging words.
And the same for Pete. He has had people call and step up to help in whatever way. It will be toughest on him, but he is at peace knowing where Pop is now. We have some tape measures that were Pop's, and I will put one in each boy's tool box. My dad bought (from an auction) Pop's golf clubs. We have given some of his golf balls marked with his special monogram to his friends. We also gave his fruit cake invention to two who will appreciate it. Evidently, he made a wooden contraption to make sure his homemade fruit cakes would all be the same size and shape.
This past Monday (last week), Andrew was running and had a seizure. He was able to get down on the ground but still scraped his shoulder blade pretty well. He was alone, but God was with him. He had to get up and run (slowly) back to his group - about two miles. We are thankful he is okay and that God took care of him. We are thankful that we are on this path to see if we can get rid of those awful seizures. He goes Monday to Duke for another MRI and an appointment with the neurologist we have seen since July. He can check his three medications and see if we need to change anything. He has a tentative date to be at Duke on July 10 for his next EMU stay. He will go in on Tuesday and have the electrodes surgically placed, spend the night in ICU, and go to the EMU the next day. It will be a 7-9 day stay. He is looking forward to getting it done. We are dreading it. But we are praying that all will go well, and that they will get the information they need. We will be calling on people to pray again during that time.
It was so hard to leave Sam those nights. I did not have great phone reception and actually had about 15 texts come in when I got to Hillsville, VA, on Thursday. So it was hard to not be able to check on Sam like I wanted. But God took care of that too. His numbers were mostly in the 100's while I was gone.
This is my latest update. We are taking a breath and getting on to the next thing. And we hope that whatever it is, that God is glorified. When you go through a death, it makes things so real. And time seems so short. We want people to know Jesus and accept Him before it's too late. Lately, I get sad instead of mad when I hear people say things about Jesus. So I pray for them more. I just don't know what people do without Jesus.
Thanks for reading and for praying! We feel it and appreciate it so much!
Friday, January 26, 2018
Really quick update
Andrew had a seizure a couple of weeks ago. It was bad and lasted a long time. And he is on three medicines! It took him over a day to get back to himself. We were in touch with the doctor, and he just told us to keep him updated (the neurologist).
Andrew also sent some extra dates to the neurosurgeon's assistant. They will get back with us. I am a little anxious, so I can start planning. On the other hand, without a date, it seems a little far off still and gives me time to get myself a little more together. Not just for schedules and hotels and such, but in my heart and mind as well.
Andrew called me Tuesday and told me "the weirdest thing just happened." He said he had everything he has going on right before a seizure, and it just stopped. That has never happened before, he said. And we know God stopped it. I ran and got him, and he has been more conscious about eating and not running low. A few weeks ago, he felt the same way (just not as far into it) and felt much better when I ran into Little Caesar's and grabbed him a pizza to start eating in the car. We always look for triggers, but his threshold should not be that low.
His numbers from his immunology appointment were good. His white blood count was a little low, but not bad. His IgG was normal - which is the huge number we check. His IgA is way too low, but it's stable. So we know that all of that should be stable and steady.
His thyroid check up in December was good with normal numbers. So all of that is on track. We will just keep trying!
So we know God stopped that seizure, and we are thankful. Someone may have been praying for him right then (a little after 2:00 pm), or it could have been the many prayers people pray - including his family. Prayer changes things. It works. We don't always get the answer we want, but we still need to pray!
Sam just got over the flu, and I really think Pete did too. Peter is not feeling well and needs to be checked. I don't know if Will sits still long enough to catch anything! We are going to see Pop and Sarah Saturday, so we have to be extra conscious and vigilant in keeping germs away from their house!
Pop has months, maybe weeks, his doctor said. His cancer has spread. Hospice started this week, and I am so thankful about that being set up now. He is in good spirits and knows where he is going. It will be very hard. We will miss him very very much here. But we grieve now and will grieve for him with hope that ONLY comes from Jesus Christ. Pop knows he is in need of a Savior, and he has accepted Jesus as his one and only way to Heaven.
Thanks for checking on us. I will post some dates when we get them. We appreciate all of the prayers and encouragement and offers of help. So much!
We have had lots of answered prayer lately. And so many for whom to pray! We are so super thankful He hears our prayers and wants us to come to Him! Oh, how He loves us!
"And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:" I John 5:4
Andrew also sent some extra dates to the neurosurgeon's assistant. They will get back with us. I am a little anxious, so I can start planning. On the other hand, without a date, it seems a little far off still and gives me time to get myself a little more together. Not just for schedules and hotels and such, but in my heart and mind as well.
Andrew called me Tuesday and told me "the weirdest thing just happened." He said he had everything he has going on right before a seizure, and it just stopped. That has never happened before, he said. And we know God stopped it. I ran and got him, and he has been more conscious about eating and not running low. A few weeks ago, he felt the same way (just not as far into it) and felt much better when I ran into Little Caesar's and grabbed him a pizza to start eating in the car. We always look for triggers, but his threshold should not be that low.
His numbers from his immunology appointment were good. His white blood count was a little low, but not bad. His IgG was normal - which is the huge number we check. His IgA is way too low, but it's stable. So we know that all of that should be stable and steady.
His thyroid check up in December was good with normal numbers. So all of that is on track. We will just keep trying!
So we know God stopped that seizure, and we are thankful. Someone may have been praying for him right then (a little after 2:00 pm), or it could have been the many prayers people pray - including his family. Prayer changes things. It works. We don't always get the answer we want, but we still need to pray!
Sam just got over the flu, and I really think Pete did too. Peter is not feeling well and needs to be checked. I don't know if Will sits still long enough to catch anything! We are going to see Pop and Sarah Saturday, so we have to be extra conscious and vigilant in keeping germs away from their house!
Pop has months, maybe weeks, his doctor said. His cancer has spread. Hospice started this week, and I am so thankful about that being set up now. He is in good spirits and knows where he is going. It will be very hard. We will miss him very very much here. But we grieve now and will grieve for him with hope that ONLY comes from Jesus Christ. Pop knows he is in need of a Savior, and he has accepted Jesus as his one and only way to Heaven.
Thanks for checking on us. I will post some dates when we get them. We appreciate all of the prayers and encouragement and offers of help. So much!
We have had lots of answered prayer lately. And so many for whom to pray! We are so super thankful He hears our prayers and wants us to come to Him! Oh, how He loves us!
"And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:" I John 5:4
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