Dear friends and family,
I have been a bit at a loss today. I want to report great strides, however Steve’s condition remains much the same. In his own words, it has not been a good day.
Steve continues to struggle with pain, sleep and of course, the growing frustration that he cannot move his fingers or legs. He remains positive, ready to heal, but we are now in a marathon phase, and each step will be small, and taken with great effort. Of course, there are small strides to be noted. Steve is eating better, with help and still with great effort, mostly due to how painful it is to sit up.
The drainage tube from his surgery wound was removed today, as was another tube in his vena cava. He has resumed wearing a neck brace simply because his neck is strained from the stress and fear of moving it. This has allowed him to relax that area as it now feels secure.
Today I climbed into bed with him for awhile. We both dozed off for fifteen or twenty minutes, a real reprieve! And tonight I will spend the night with him – joy! Last night he did not sleep until 4 a.m. While this was an improvement, we are hoping for a better night tonight. Please pray for sleep!
The days are a blur of breathing therapies, physical therapies, blood pressure cuffs and medicine administrations. We are eager to transition to Seattle where there will be a greater focus on rehabilitation. We are awaiting approval from our insurance before we can move. Please pray that the Lord would continue to be in the details.
On to a more cheerful topic: the boys!
I spent the night with all three of my boys last night, a happy circus in my hotel room. I was able to explain Steve’s injury to Aidan and Jude, who seemed to take it all in stride. They both spontaneously drew pictures for their papa, both indicating the seriousness of the event and their positive attitude toward it. Their love and hope, despite the possibility that papa would be in a wheelchair, were a lesson in childlike faith.
While they were awkward visiting Steve, who was unfortunately in a lot of pain, we managed to keep the visit upbeat. Steve bravely joked and teased them, however he was in too much pain to sit upright or move his arms very much. The boys seemed to take all of this in stride, however, and we are so grateful. Zephyr, who is oblivious to it all, remains ever joyful, chortling and snuggling and screaming happily down the hospital corridors!
My verse for yesterday and today comes from James 1:12, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” While the news is only moderately good, we remain steadfast.
With love,
Michelle
From Aidan
From Jude