Home sweet home. After more than 4 weeks in Baltimore, we arrived back home in Woodstock, GA on Tuesday night. Being able to stay with the Scheihings in Baltimore was a great blessing, but it's always nice to be home.
We took three days to make the 12hr drive back. Our first stop was Lynchburg, VA (5hr drive) where we stayed with our friends the McBratney's and spent some time with Nick at Liberty. Cindy was even able to get a massage from another Lynchburg friend - Lynn Vessels, which helped her tolerate the second leg of the trip.
Our second stop was Davidson, NC (3hr drive) where we stayed with my parents. An unexpected turn of events ended with my Dad in the hospital after a reaction to medication following an outpatient procedure. It was the Lord's plan that I was able to be with Mom in the hospital. Dad had to stay overnight for observation, but went home the next day and is doing fine now.
The third leg was the 4 hour drive home. Cindy had the hardest time with this leg after riding in the car the two previous days. She is still trying to regain her energy.
Now with Cindy home, I can concentrate more on the job hunt. Cindy will be undergoing physical therapy to help regain her strength. Other than her strength, she is doing very well.
-Rick
Friday, April 3, 2009
Monday, March 23, 2009
Update (3/23/2009) 10:00am
Cindy continues her recovery, slowly getting stronger every day. She left the hospital without a walker or cane and hasn't needed either. She goes up and down the stairs at the Scheihing's several times a day. She showers and gets cleaned up on her own. She is eating well and sleeping frequently, albeit not for long periods of time. The Scheihing's home is a perfect place of rest for Cindy. It is very quiet and secluded, surrounded by woods, a pond, a garden, and plenty of wild life.
Cindy had a great surprise on Thursday. Dan and Lisa Dorner (our associate pastor and his wife) flew up to Baltimore with Jenna to surprise Cindy. The surprise was well-orchestrated and Cindy was touched. It was the first time we had seen Jenna in 3 weeks. They flew back to Atlanta Friday.
On Friday, Cindy had her followup appointment with the neuro-surgeon. He was pleased with her progress. On the way home from the appointment, we stopped at the Amish market for some brief "window shopping". Cindy went back to the Amish market on Saturday for another stroll, but this time took the credit card with her.
My job search continues. The round of interviews I had over the last two weeks all went well. I expect to hear about next steps in the next week or two. I also was able to spend Saturday at a christian men's retreat, hosted by Bob Scheihing. It was a nice break and a blessed time.
Thank you for your continued prayers.
-Rick
"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." Ps. 91:1
"Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the Lord has been good to you." Ps. 116:7
Cindy had a great surprise on Thursday. Dan and Lisa Dorner (our associate pastor and his wife) flew up to Baltimore with Jenna to surprise Cindy. The surprise was well-orchestrated and Cindy was touched. It was the first time we had seen Jenna in 3 weeks. They flew back to Atlanta Friday.
On Friday, Cindy had her followup appointment with the neuro-surgeon. He was pleased with her progress. On the way home from the appointment, we stopped at the Amish market for some brief "window shopping". Cindy went back to the Amish market on Saturday for another stroll, but this time took the credit card with her.
My job search continues. The round of interviews I had over the last two weeks all went well. I expect to hear about next steps in the next week or two. I also was able to spend Saturday at a christian men's retreat, hosted by Bob Scheihing. It was a nice break and a blessed time.
Thank you for your continued prayers.
-Rick
"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." Ps. 91:1
"Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the Lord has been good to you." Ps. 116:7
Monday, March 16, 2009
Update (3/16/2009) 9:30pm
Cindy had a restful but productive day today. She slept often and well. She also went up and down the stairs several times; ate breakfast, lunch and dinner; and took a shower for the first time in over 2 weeks. She is feeling much more human.
She has some bloating, so we will do some extra walking tomorrow.
All in all, a very good first day out of the hospital, without nursing care. Cindy's biggest challenge now is not being too bold to think she can do more than her body is ready to do. She wants to be completely back to normal - tomorrow. She will have to be a bit more patient than that.
-Rick
"Praise the Lord O my soul, and forget not all his benefits - who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's." Ps. 103:2-5
She has some bloating, so we will do some extra walking tomorrow.
All in all, a very good first day out of the hospital, without nursing care. Cindy's biggest challenge now is not being too bold to think she can do more than her body is ready to do. She wants to be completely back to normal - tomorrow. She will have to be a bit more patient than that.
-Rick
"Praise the Lord O my soul, and forget not all his benefits - who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's." Ps. 103:2-5
Update (3/16/2009) 12:30am
Well, we waited all day for the doctor to release Cindy. At 8:15pm, we were told that Cindy couldn't be released because the doctor on duty was not qualified to take out her intravenous catheter. Only the special team of doctors that put it in could take it out and they don't work on weekends unless they're there for an emergency.
So despite everything that the Lord has done, and all the prayers he has answered over the last two weeks, Cindy and I resigned ourselves to the situation, since of course it would be impossible for a member of the special team to be in the hospital at 8:15pm on a Sunday night. Our faith was so weak, we didn't even bother to pray for such a miracle.
But praise be to God, he chose to answer a prayer that we didn't even have the faith to ask - yes, a member of the special team happened to be in the hospital at that time and was able to remove Cindy's catheter before he left at 8:30. Cindy was finally discharged around 10:30pm.
After a tour of downtown Baltimore looking for a 24hr pharmacy to fill Cindy's pain prescription, we arrived at the Scheihings about midnight.
Cindy is in a real bed sleeping and I am about to turn in. What an amazing way to end the 17 day hospital stay.
-Rick
"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen." Eph. 3:20-21
So despite everything that the Lord has done, and all the prayers he has answered over the last two weeks, Cindy and I resigned ourselves to the situation, since of course it would be impossible for a member of the special team to be in the hospital at 8:15pm on a Sunday night. Our faith was so weak, we didn't even bother to pray for such a miracle.
But praise be to God, he chose to answer a prayer that we didn't even have the faith to ask - yes, a member of the special team happened to be in the hospital at that time and was able to remove Cindy's catheter before he left at 8:30. Cindy was finally discharged around 10:30pm.
After a tour of downtown Baltimore looking for a 24hr pharmacy to fill Cindy's pain prescription, we arrived at the Scheihings about midnight.
Cindy is in a real bed sleeping and I am about to turn in. What an amazing way to end the 17 day hospital stay.
-Rick
"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen." Eph. 3:20-21
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Update (3/15/2009) 5:30pm
Still waiting to be cleared for release, but that's ok. The extra time gives us the opportunity to join our church service online.
Cindy's staples were removed this afternoon - 61 in total (25 in her back, 36 in her side). Stitches are too many to count and thankfully do not have to be removed. They will dissolve on their own.
The last two tasks to be completed before Cindy can be wheeled out is the removal of her intravenous catheter and prescriptions for her meds. Please pray that there are no hiccups in the hospital's processing of these last two tasks.
-Rick
Cindy's staples were removed this afternoon - 61 in total (25 in her back, 36 in her side). Stitches are too many to count and thankfully do not have to be removed. They will dissolve on their own.
The last two tasks to be completed before Cindy can be wheeled out is the removal of her intravenous catheter and prescriptions for her meds. Please pray that there are no hiccups in the hospital's processing of these last two tasks.
-Rick
Update (3/15/2009) 1:30pm
We have received word that Cindy can leave the hospital today - Praise the Lord, another answered prayer!
There is much that has to be processed before Cindy can be released, but the time of her release is not important - the fact that she can leave today is a miracle, especially given where she was in her recovery just a few days ago. As imperfect as it is, the human body, designed and created by God, has an amazing and miraculous capacity to heal.
We know that the Lord rejoices with us as we look back over the last two weeks and consider all that He has done.
-Rick
"The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." Zeph. 3:17
There is much that has to be processed before Cindy can be released, but the time of her release is not important - the fact that she can leave today is a miracle, especially given where she was in her recovery just a few days ago. As imperfect as it is, the human body, designed and created by God, has an amazing and miraculous capacity to heal.
We know that the Lord rejoices with us as we look back over the last two weeks and consider all that He has done.
-Rick
"The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." Zeph. 3:17
God is so faithful!!
Last night was a night of constant interruptions and very little sleep. Cindy and I both got up this morning tired and determined that last night would be the last night in the hospital.
The doctor came in this morning and said that if all went well, Cindy could leave tomorrow or Tuesday. After some debate, the doctor agreed that Cindy could possibly leave today if she had a good bowel movement. After the doctor left, I prayed with Cindy asking the Lord to allow her body to do what He created it to do. Before I even finished the prayer, Cindy began to cramp. She went into the bathroom and for the first time in over two weeks, Cindy's bowels did completely what God created them to do.
We won't know for sure when Cindy will be allowed to go home until later today, but God has once again answered our prayers in a miraculous way.
-Rick
"But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds." Ps. 73:28
Last night was a night of constant interruptions and very little sleep. Cindy and I both got up this morning tired and determined that last night would be the last night in the hospital.
The doctor came in this morning and said that if all went well, Cindy could leave tomorrow or Tuesday. After some debate, the doctor agreed that Cindy could possibly leave today if she had a good bowel movement. After the doctor left, I prayed with Cindy asking the Lord to allow her body to do what He created it to do. Before I even finished the prayer, Cindy began to cramp. She went into the bathroom and for the first time in over two weeks, Cindy's bowels did completely what God created them to do.
We won't know for sure when Cindy will be allowed to go home until later today, but God has once again answered our prayers in a miraculous way.
-Rick
"But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds." Ps. 73:28
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Cindy had a pretty good day today. She is on a liquid diet and had broth, apple juice, and a protein shake today. Cindy is also still receiving the nutrient IV, so she is gaining strength. She is walking and doing her PT exercises regularly. However, Cindy is showing signs of bloating again, so we need to pray that her bowels are not slowing again.
Tomorrow is a big day. If all goes well and everything is working properly, she may be able to go home to the Scheihings. As you can imagine, Cindy is anxious to leave and so am I.
We said goodbye to Nick today as he drove back to Liberty. It was a tremendous blessing to have all three of the boys here at various times during this ordeal. In their own ways, all four of our children gave special gifts to Cindy in her time of need. Jenna gave Cindy a fleece Panda Bear blanket before the surgery, not knowing that it would be a constant and comforting companion, providing much needed warmth throughout these last two weeks in the hospital. Ryan's drive all the way down from Vermont the weekend after the first surgery was a great surprise for Cindy and the 20 hours of driving in that weekend was no small sacrifice. And of course, only the Lord's timing could have been so perfect as to allow both Matt and Nick here to help in back-to-back weeks. Giving up their spring break to spend sleepless nights and boring days in a hospital to help care for their mom and give their dad much needed breaks went far beyond the call of duty. Their reward was that they were able to witness first hand God's miraculous powers and see the daily changes in their mom as the Lord faithfully answered all of our prayers.
Those sacrificial gifts of love from our children will continue to bless us for the rest of our lives.
-Rick
"The father of a righteous man has great joy; he who has a wise son delights in him." Prov. 23:24
"Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts. They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful works. They will tell of the power of your awesome works, and I will proclaim your great deeds." Ps. 145:3-6
Tomorrow is a big day. If all goes well and everything is working properly, she may be able to go home to the Scheihings. As you can imagine, Cindy is anxious to leave and so am I.
We said goodbye to Nick today as he drove back to Liberty. It was a tremendous blessing to have all three of the boys here at various times during this ordeal. In their own ways, all four of our children gave special gifts to Cindy in her time of need. Jenna gave Cindy a fleece Panda Bear blanket before the surgery, not knowing that it would be a constant and comforting companion, providing much needed warmth throughout these last two weeks in the hospital. Ryan's drive all the way down from Vermont the weekend after the first surgery was a great surprise for Cindy and the 20 hours of driving in that weekend was no small sacrifice. And of course, only the Lord's timing could have been so perfect as to allow both Matt and Nick here to help in back-to-back weeks. Giving up their spring break to spend sleepless nights and boring days in a hospital to help care for their mom and give their dad much needed breaks went far beyond the call of duty. Their reward was that they were able to witness first hand God's miraculous powers and see the daily changes in their mom as the Lord faithfully answered all of our prayers.
Those sacrificial gifts of love from our children will continue to bless us for the rest of our lives.
-Rick
"The father of a righteous man has great joy; he who has a wise son delights in him." Prov. 23:24
"Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts. They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful works. They will tell of the power of your awesome works, and I will proclaim your great deeds." Ps. 145:3-6
Friday, March 13, 2009
Update (3/13/2009) 4:30pm
It's now been 11 days since Cindy's second surgery, 14 days since her first surgery, 15th day at Johns Hopkins. It's been amazing to see how much Cindy has progressed in her recovery in the last three days.
Nothing but praises to report today: Cindy's tube was removed this morning and she is much more comfortable; her pain is much better controlled; her bowels are still working properly; the pathology report has come back indicating that the tumor was removed completely intact with negative margins (meaning there were no cancer cells within an acceptable margin from the edges of what was removed) all around; for the first time, we discussed with the nurse today the timing of Cindy's release.
Cindy is taking ice chips and will move on to broth and liquids tomorrow morning. As long as her bowels continue to perform, they will progress her diet as fast as she can handle it.
We set a goal 10 days ago for Cindy to leave the hospital before all of her flowers died. She is down to her last vase of flowers and I am hopeful the goal will be achieved. I believe that a Monday release is achievable - Cindy is hoping for a Sunday release.
Thank you all for your faithful prayers.
-Rick
"Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare."
Ps. 40:5
Nothing but praises to report today: Cindy's tube was removed this morning and she is much more comfortable; her pain is much better controlled; her bowels are still working properly; the pathology report has come back indicating that the tumor was removed completely intact with negative margins (meaning there were no cancer cells within an acceptable margin from the edges of what was removed) all around; for the first time, we discussed with the nurse today the timing of Cindy's release.
Cindy is taking ice chips and will move on to broth and liquids tomorrow morning. As long as her bowels continue to perform, they will progress her diet as fast as she can handle it.
We set a goal 10 days ago for Cindy to leave the hospital before all of her flowers died. She is down to her last vase of flowers and I am hopeful the goal will be achieved. I believe that a Monday release is achievable - Cindy is hoping for a Sunday release.
Thank you all for your faithful prayers.
-Rick
"Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare."
Ps. 40:5
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Update (3/12/2009) 10:40pm
Mom had a great day today! Although the nurses would not let her take a shower, one of the nurses did take on the task of washing mom's hair. It was an unconventional method, but it sure made mom's day! Also, her day was highlighted by two walks, one of which she did not use a walker but rather held onto the IV monitor (with the assistance of Aunt Debbie Simpson by her side. Thank you for coming down!). At the end of the first walk the physical therapist had mom walk down, then back up 4 stairs! Quite an accomplishment, and she did it with ease! Tomorrow is an even bigger day for mom. She is having her tube that is in her stomach cut off for the night to see how her stomach reacts. She will also be on a strict liquid diet to see if her stomach is ready to take on the challenge of working properly again. Please pray that her stomach will handle it! She has not had the taste of food or had anything to drink since Sunday, so she is ready to have something that will not be injected through an IV. Since she had tubes down her throat during surgery and now has the NG tube in her stomach, her throat has become very soar. She said that it hurts to swallow and talk. Please pray they can remove that tube tomorrow. Other than the irritating tube, her pain has been much better today than the rest of the days. Just another blessing from the Lord in the whole recovery process. It is a miracle to see how her body has been able to go from 8 months pregnant with balloon legs (that's what she called them) to looking like mom! God has been at work with her body, and given her a good team of nurses to help along the way.
Since Aunt Debbie came down tonight she will be the one staying with mom tonight. Thank you for every prayer sent out for my dad. He had a good interview, and had enough energy to make it through. Next interview will be Wednesday (hopefully mom will be at the Scheihing's by Monday, so there will always be someone with her while dad is away).
Thank you for your continued prayers and comments. Each comment gets read, and they never fail to bring an abundance of encouragement to mom. Thank you.
-Nick
Psalm 9:10-11 Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.Sing praises to the LORD, enthroned in Zion; proclaim among the nations what he has done.
Since Aunt Debbie came down tonight she will be the one staying with mom tonight. Thank you for every prayer sent out for my dad. He had a good interview, and had enough energy to make it through. Next interview will be Wednesday (hopefully mom will be at the Scheihing's by Monday, so there will always be someone with her while dad is away).
Thank you for your continued prayers and comments. Each comment gets read, and they never fail to bring an abundance of encouragement to mom. Thank you.
-Nick
Psalm 9:10-11 Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.Sing praises to the LORD, enthroned in Zion; proclaim among the nations what he has done.
Update (3/12/2009) 10:00am
Mom had very quiet nurses for the night shift, so she actually got a fairly good nights sleep. The Lord has continued to bless mom's fighter's spirit. The nutrients have given her more energy, calmed her stomach even more, and given her the strength she will need to possibly take a shower today (with the help of a shower stool). Her legs actually look like her old legs, so the swelling has continued to go down considerably. Mom and I are about to take a walk around "the loop" (ninth floor). Keep praying for pain tolerance. Her pain was about a 5 this morning, which is down from last night, but it always fluctuates.
- Nick
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Update (3/11/2009) 10:45pm
The nutrients are in! Praise the Lord! Mom has not eaten since Sunday, and technically is still not eating, but receiving all the benefits of eating.
A minor concern to be kept in prayer is that her suction has begun to bring up small amounts of blood in the liquid from her stomach. This is not a big deal because nothing has come up in the x-rays, but is definitely something worth praying for. The nurse just walked in and asked about mom's pain, and she said about a 7, which is still pretty high even after having pain medication. Please keep the pain she is has in your prayers, because this continues to cause a lot of discomfort.
My dad landed in Boston, MA tonight around 10:15 or so. He has been tired all week, and definitely needs all the energy the Lord can give him for tomorrows interview. The Lord is in control, He will give my dad all the energy he needs, and I am confident in that!
Lastly, please pray for Jenna. She's been with friends for the past 2 weeks (which we are so thankful for), but it must be hard to be in her situation, knowing she can't see her momma. So please lift her up in prayer that God would comfort her spirit for the remaining weeks. (And that mom and dad might be able to get back home in time for her birthday 3/29)
Thank you all for your continued prayers! We love and appreciate all of you!
-Nick
Psalm 28:5-7 - Praise the Lord for He has heard my cry for mercy. The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song.
Update (3/11/2009) 4:00pm
Cindy is fighting a lot of pain today, but making great progress in the battle of the bowels. Her xray today showed that her small intestine is clear, so the air is now confined to the large intestine and working its way out. Probably another 24hrs with the suction tube. The bloating in her stomach is noticeably reduced. The swelling in her legs is greatly reduced. At one point, Cindy was retaining about 30 lbs of excess fluid in her lower body.
Cindy is doing as much walking and moving around as she can tolerate with the pain. Earlier today, she went down to the gym and we played a couple games of tennis - on the wii of course. Then she came back up to her room, rested for a few minutes and then went out and did a lap around the floor. She is making such good progress that the nurses have begun turning their attention to other more needy patients.
Nick has been a big help, especially in my absence. He will carry the load again tonight and tomorrow while I'm out of town for an interview.
Please pray that Cindy's bowel continues to rid itself of the air and that her suction tube can be removed tomorrow. Then she will be able to take pain medication to better manage her pain and begin to eat.
We are encouraged by Cindy's progress and by your continued support and prayers.
-Rick
"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." Rom. 15:5-6
Cindy is doing as much walking and moving around as she can tolerate with the pain. Earlier today, she went down to the gym and we played a couple games of tennis - on the wii of course. Then she came back up to her room, rested for a few minutes and then went out and did a lap around the floor. She is making such good progress that the nurses have begun turning their attention to other more needy patients.
Nick has been a big help, especially in my absence. He will carry the load again tonight and tomorrow while I'm out of town for an interview.
Please pray that Cindy's bowel continues to rid itself of the air and that her suction tube can be removed tomorrow. Then she will be able to take pain medication to better manage her pain and begin to eat.
We are encouraged by Cindy's progress and by your continued support and prayers.
-Rick
"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." Rom. 15:5-6
Update (3/11/2009) 9:00am
Last night was a very rough night. My mom was able to get a maximum of two hours of sleep, and I was not able to get much more than that either. I can definitely sympathize with my dad as to how hard it has been on him to get sleep. This morning has been a great one for her bowels. My dad would be happy to know that she has stunk up the room, twice now. The nurse/physical therapist want her up and walking every four hours today, so pray that the Lord gives her the energy and strength throughout the day to complete these walks.
-Nick
Psalm 18:31-33 For who is God besides the LORD? And who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights.
-Nick
Psalm 18:31-33 For who is God besides the LORD? And who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Update (3/10/2009) 9:20pm
Here's the progress report. My mom continued her physical therapy with another walk this morning with the assistance of Anna (the splendid nurse) and my dad. A team of specialists were successful in the procedure of placing the catheter into her vein (in the right arm), this evening. She will not be able to receive the nutrients until around nine o'clock tomorrow night. She has not had food since Sunday, so she is becoming pretty weary. Pray the Lord will continue to give her strength, and that He will miraculously not make her hungry for the next 24 hours.
Another big update is my mom's bowels. She had three movements, one of which was quite a dandy as my dad so elegantly described. She is in a good deal of pain still, her back was a big annoyance today.
If you're wondering why I am referring to 'my dad' and 'my mom', that is because this is Nick (#3 in the line of sons). My dad went back to the Scheihing's tonight to hopefully get a good solid night's sleep before his interview on Thursday. He flies out tomorrow in the afternoon, and will not be getting back until late Thursday night. With that being said, please pray that the Lord will give him the energy he needs to complete the tasks of these interviews. I asked him yesterday, "on a scale from 1 to tired, how tired are you?" He said about an 8/10, so he needs some good rest. It's been amazing to see how faithful both my parents have been to keep God at the center of this entire process. I wish everyone could see how closely mended/knit their marriage is through Christ! It's been a blessing!
Lord, bless us all with good rest!
- Nick
Romans 5:3-5 - Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
Another big update is my mom's bowels. She had three movements, one of which was quite a dandy as my dad so elegantly described. She is in a good deal of pain still, her back was a big annoyance today.
If you're wondering why I am referring to 'my dad' and 'my mom', that is because this is Nick (#3 in the line of sons). My dad went back to the Scheihing's tonight to hopefully get a good solid night's sleep before his interview on Thursday. He flies out tomorrow in the afternoon, and will not be getting back until late Thursday night. With that being said, please pray that the Lord will give him the energy he needs to complete the tasks of these interviews. I asked him yesterday, "on a scale from 1 to tired, how tired are you?" He said about an 8/10, so he needs some good rest. It's been amazing to see how faithful both my parents have been to keep God at the center of this entire process. I wish everyone could see how closely mended/knit their marriage is through Christ! It's been a blessing!
Lord, bless us all with good rest!
- Nick
Romans 5:3-5 - Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
Update (3/9/09 - 2:00 pm)
A couple items worth mentioning at this time.
We learned our nurse Anna is a fighter - she fights for her patients. At one point this morning, Cindy had gone for her longest walk yet and was resting in a chair in the hallway when another nurse came down the hall wheeling a patient on a bed and was a bit impatient and loud about the fact that Cindy was in the hallway. Well, Anna took charge immediately and went toe to toe to let the nurse know, in no uncertain terms, how inappropriate her behavior was. Anna didn't throw and punches, but I there was a moment that I thought she was going to put the lady's lights out. Anna has been Cindy's nurse more than any other on the floor over the last week and has experienced Cindy's entire battle since the second surgery. We thank the Lord for Anna and for her care and protection of Cindy. Anna joined us today for my reading of blog updates and emails to Cindy. She enjoyed the break from her routine.
The other item worth noting is that Cindy made a "joyful noise" on the commode today. Clearly an answer to prayer. It didn't quite stink up the room, but we'll take it, and we pray for more.
It looks like Cindy will go down for her intravenous catheter in a couple of hours. They have to give her a "twilight" anesthesia for the procedure. The anesthesia is not expected to affect her bowel situation, but please pray that it doesn't cause another bowel setback.
-Rick
"Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise". Ps. 98:4
We learned our nurse Anna is a fighter - she fights for her patients. At one point this morning, Cindy had gone for her longest walk yet and was resting in a chair in the hallway when another nurse came down the hall wheeling a patient on a bed and was a bit impatient and loud about the fact that Cindy was in the hallway. Well, Anna took charge immediately and went toe to toe to let the nurse know, in no uncertain terms, how inappropriate her behavior was. Anna didn't throw and punches, but I there was a moment that I thought she was going to put the lady's lights out. Anna has been Cindy's nurse more than any other on the floor over the last week and has experienced Cindy's entire battle since the second surgery. We thank the Lord for Anna and for her care and protection of Cindy. Anna joined us today for my reading of blog updates and emails to Cindy. She enjoyed the break from her routine.
The other item worth noting is that Cindy made a "joyful noise" on the commode today. Clearly an answer to prayer. It didn't quite stink up the room, but we'll take it, and we pray for more.
It looks like Cindy will go down for her intravenous catheter in a couple of hours. They have to give her a "twilight" anesthesia for the procedure. The anesthesia is not expected to affect her bowel situation, but please pray that it doesn't cause another bowel setback.
-Rick
"Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise". Ps. 98:4
Update (3/9/09 - 12:00 pm)
Well, the PIC team was unable to get the PIC line in. Cindy's veins were apparently too small and weak. Plan B is to take her down to the PIC lab where they have special xray equipment to help get the line in place. They hope to be able to fit her into the schedule today, otherwise it will have to wait until tomorrow. Since Cindy cannot eat or drink with her suction tube in place, the PIC line is the only way to get nutrition into her body. Please pray that the line is successfully installed today.
-Rick
-Rick
Update (3/9/09 - 9:00 am)
Cindy had a rougher time sleeping last night. She hurts all over - back pain from both surgeries, side pain from the cracked rib, and gas pains from her abdomen. The gas pains were the primary source of discomfort last night. A lot of rumbling but nothing productive. Cindy had a great nurse last night, but she accidentally forgot to turn the suction back on in Cindy's tube after getting her back to bed at one point. That means that the tube was useless for most of the night. A frustrating and disappointing discovery, but a reminder that no matter how good the intentions, we are imperfect people dealing with imperfect people, within an imperfect medical system, in an imperfect world. But we can be thankful that we have a perfect Lord who controls it all. We continue to trust Him.
Our friend Michelle mentioned in an email how self-conscious women can be about passing gas, but she is praying that Cindy passes lots of gas. I agree. So I'm praying that Cindy stinks up the room today. Cindy may wince at my crudeness, but feel free to join me in that prayer.
-Rick
"As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him." Ps. 18:30
Our friend Michelle mentioned in an email how self-conscious women can be about passing gas, but she is praying that Cindy passes lots of gas. I agree. So I'm praying that Cindy stinks up the room today. Cindy may wince at my crudeness, but feel free to join me in that prayer.
-Rick
"As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him." Ps. 18:30
Monday, March 9, 2009
Update (3/8/09 - 11:30 pm)
More progress made today, but more patience is required. As of now, Cindy still has the suction tube trying to pump the air out of her stomach. A 24 hour hope (hope of tube removal) has turned into at least a 48 hour reality. Cindy's bloating has decreased some, but not as significantly as we had hoped. The pain from the bloating has decreased, while her back pain seems to have increased. Because she is so nutritionally deprived, Cindy will have a "PIC line" inserted tomorrow (it's a type of catheter inserted into a vein) that will allow the doctors to feed her nutrition in addition to IVs and meds in the same line.
The good news is that Cindy was up and walking more today. Nick and the nurse took her on a stroll down the hall (using a walker) for the first time. She took the same stroll this evening with the nurse and me - without the walker. She was in a lot of pain in her back for the second stroll, but she wouldn't give up until she had walked the same distance as the first stroll. I continue to be amazed at her courage and determined spirit. The Lord is definitely honoring her efforts with supernatural strength. Cindy's humanity came through though a couple of times when the pain was too much and brought her to tears. For those of you that know Cindy well, you know that it takes a lot of pain to bring her to tears.
We capped off the day with Nick reading Cindy's devotional and all of the most recent comments and emails from many of you. The tears we shed during that time were tears of thankfulness. Please know how much your encouragement and prayers mean to both of us.
After the devotion, Nick played a couple programs from one of our favorite comedians - Gary Burbank from Cincinnati (his Gilbert Gnarley character for those of you familiar with his old radio talk show). We laughed until we cried. I think Cindy popped a couple of staples, but she said it was worth it. Thank you Nick for your healing prescription - laughter.
-Rick
"Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy." Ps. 126:5
The good news is that Cindy was up and walking more today. Nick and the nurse took her on a stroll down the hall (using a walker) for the first time. She took the same stroll this evening with the nurse and me - without the walker. She was in a lot of pain in her back for the second stroll, but she wouldn't give up until she had walked the same distance as the first stroll. I continue to be amazed at her courage and determined spirit. The Lord is definitely honoring her efforts with supernatural strength. Cindy's humanity came through though a couple of times when the pain was too much and brought her to tears. For those of you that know Cindy well, you know that it takes a lot of pain to bring her to tears.
We capped off the day with Nick reading Cindy's devotional and all of the most recent comments and emails from many of you. The tears we shed during that time were tears of thankfulness. Please know how much your encouragement and prayers mean to both of us.
After the devotion, Nick played a couple programs from one of our favorite comedians - Gary Burbank from Cincinnati (his Gilbert Gnarley character for those of you familiar with his old radio talk show). We laughed until we cried. I think Cindy popped a couple of staples, but she said it was worth it. Thank you Nick for your healing prescription - laughter.
-Rick
"Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy." Ps. 126:5
Update (3/8/09 - 9:00 am)
Cindy slept pretty well last night, despite the tube. Her stomach is still very bloated this morning after 12 hours with the tube, but she has felt some relief. Still a long way to go, but that's progress.
This week and next are going to be a bit crazy for me. Please pray for my energy level. I have two phone interviews and three in person interviews, which is great activity in the job search process, but the Lord is going to have to provide my energy. Spending nights sleeping on a reclining chair in a hospital room isn't doing it. A minor battle though compared to Cindy's.
-Rick
"For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect." Ps. 18:31-32
This week and next are going to be a bit crazy for me. Please pray for my energy level. I have two phone interviews and three in person interviews, which is great activity in the job search process, but the Lord is going to have to provide my energy. Spending nights sleeping on a reclining chair in a hospital room isn't doing it. A minor battle though compared to Cindy's.
-Rick
"For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect." Ps. 18:31-32
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
