Thursday, July 31, 2008

We need prayer!

Do you like the picture of Dad and his lobster? I would have to call that a hug from heaven. He had just joked a couple hours before that he forgot to order lobster for his supper. Then Mom and I went to the cafeteria to get a snack and there they were staring back at us! We asked how often they have lobster and we were told that this was the first time in several years that they have served lobster. Coincidence...I'd like to think not!
Anyways...tomorrow, August 1, at 3:00, Dad will be going to surgery to have his left leg amputated. This is high risk for him, but the alternatives are worse. They will be doing a "block" from the waist down and minimal anesthesia to sedate him. This should be less stressing for his heart.
Kelly, Janna, and I will be with Mom for the whole day. Pray that we'll be able to take some of the burden from her. Pray for God's peace for our whole family, especially Dad.
Pray for strength for the days ahead, and grace for the present moment.

For the family,
Suzanne

Saturday, July 19, 2008

More info on Dad:

1. Dad made it through camp. Although, as the week went along, he grew noticeably weaker. This could be because... a.)he is still losing blood, b.)he is not able to sleep at night, or c.)he is losing his appetite. But, Dad wanted me to pass along the fact that five young people made decisions for the Lord this week. And, in Dad's words, "that's what it's all about."

2. Dad finally got an appointment with the oncologist. Actually, he got two appointments. One with the oncologist and one with the radiologist. One appointment is for August 1 and the second for August 14 (Mom couldn't remember which one was which.)

3. Dad FINALLY got approved for MaineCare so this will help with medical expenses. Also, it will help in the purchase of some durable equipment, and possibly some in-home care.

Please, continue to keep Dad in your prayers. Also, remember Mom as Dad is needing more and more care/help. Without going into great detail, this is becoming more of a burden each day and Mom really DOES need some help.

All for now, Kelly

PS Just so you know, Dad is getting around with a walker now and we are beginning to think that a wheelchair might be better for being in public.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Like old times!

Dad had an appointment with the cancer specialist yesterday, July 14. The only thing decided then was that the specialist would confer with the surgeon and decide on a course of action. So Mom and Dad still don't know anything definite. Keep praying! Maybe the cancer won't be there by the time they take another look at it!
Also, Dad is doing what he loves best this week. He is speaking at River of Life Bible Camp in Howland. Which brings up a few things that you can be praying about...1) That decisions would be made for the Lord. These children could be saved from much heartache if they decide to give their lives to God now. 2) Safety as Dad walks across the uneven ground. There are many humps, stumps, and roots to trip over. 3) That Mom and Dad would find some rest and rejuvenation. Life has been quite a merry-go-round in the recent months. It's good to get off every once in a while and take a deep breath. 4) For Dad's spirit. That he will continue to persevere and have a desire to keep being used of God.

God desires to use each of us until our final breath...IF we will only let Him!