Well, our Nordell Christmas vacation was a success, but the recovery has been hard; with yesterday being an especially rough one. Ron was exceptionally lethargic yesterday after a sleepless night (due to severe reflux which culminated in a puking episode early in the morning.) He continued to feel puny all day nausea and stomachache on top of a really BAD headache. I couldn't get him to drink or eat anything and was having visions of spending another holiday at Presby. Thankfully, his temperature and blood pressure were both normal so I was trying not to get overly concerned. He slept off and on ALL DAY and just looked bad. He did get up for a while in the evening and I convinced him to eat some eggs and toast but then back to the recliner and sleep. He's still sleeping this morning, but I'm hoping today will be a better day.
Needless to say, my plans to whip him back into shape have fallen by the wayside! But I'll take a little backslide any day, as long as it doesn't land us back at Presby (not that there's anything wrong with it!; just not how I'd like to spend my time this holiday season...or any other time, really)
So, it's been rather quiet around here. I'd like to say I've spent this time getting alot of those things on my never-ending "to do" list accomplished, but.....I've been rather lazy; just trying to take care of my guy. I do need to get busy, tho; there's much to do before I head back to work Monday, most importantly thank you notes! Yes, I'm still trying to get those out and no, I have not forgotten any of you (at least I hope my records are straight!)
As you celebrate the beginning of this New Year; know you are ever in our thoughts and prayers! Please pray this will be a "medically uneventful" year for us!
Love, Christie & Ron
"May the Lord of peace Himself always give you His peace no matter what happens. The Lord be with you all." 2 Thessalonians 3: 16 NLT
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Catching up...
The last couple of weeks before Christmas were very hectic. Alot of things going on with no time to keep everyone up to date. So, I'll try to catch you up...
Ron hit a pretty rough time about a week before we were to leave for our Christmas vacation. And honestly, I was beginning to doubt the wisdom of going. Extreme fatigue, weakness, increased reflux and regurgitation, as well as continued weight loss. Results from his routine blood work showed a marked increase in his white blood cell count (19,000) which led to orders for a CT scan to check out abdomen, pelvis and chest.
The timing of the CT on Wednesday, December 17, worked out well; we had plans to take Christmas snacks up to the nurses at Presby on that day so we were able to take care of both things at the same time! It was great to be able to bless these wonderful nurses who ministered to Ron (as well as our entire family!) for so long with such professionalism, care and compassion. They hold a very special place in our hearts. It was a very rough day on him but he was determined to stick it out.
We also saw Dr. Shires and he reminded us "the rule of thumb for rehab after a lengthy illness is 3 days for every day in hospital. So you're still looking at a good 21 months or so". I know we've been told this before, but it's still hard to hear; especially for Ron. And as we talked about it later, he admitted it was very discouraging, but he did agree at least it's good to know that his lack of energy and his extreme fatigue is not unexpected or out of the ordinary. As hard as it is to imagine, he's still got a very lengthy healing process ahead.
We received CT results Friday before we left which showed "no abscess or infection in the chest, pelvis or abdomen. And no abdominal abscess, inflammation, kinking or blockage" All good news. (Another blood workup was done before we left town and white blood count had considerably decreased, now at a slightly elevated level of 11,000) .
Reflux and regurgitation comes and goes. Extreme fatigue goes without saying. For instance, after going to church, he has to come home and take a 2 hour (or more) nap. I also know he doesn't interact with others because it requires so much expended energy it's exhausting. If you notice, his entire posture looks very stiff (especially the way he holds his hands at an odd angle) which is caused by muscle fatigue and tightness. And he often struggles with difficulty sleeping at night.
He did pretty well on our Christmas vacation; some sinking spells and a few puking episodes but overall it was a good trip. It was great for him to be surrounded by his family. And of course there was plenty of family there! As well as lots of great food to try to fatten him up a little! Only one afternoon did things get really bad and he had to give in to a few hours in bed and a little bit of a pity party, but who can blame the guy???
Ron has spent today sleeping off and on; I'm trying to cut him some slack and have only forced him out for one walk and a short trip to the grocery store. But tomorrow, I'm hoping to start whipping him back into shape! (At least get him back into a more consistent sleeping, eating and physical therapy schedule).
Keep praying....God hears and answers!
Ron hit a pretty rough time about a week before we were to leave for our Christmas vacation. And honestly, I was beginning to doubt the wisdom of going. Extreme fatigue, weakness, increased reflux and regurgitation, as well as continued weight loss. Results from his routine blood work showed a marked increase in his white blood cell count (19,000) which led to orders for a CT scan to check out abdomen, pelvis and chest.
The timing of the CT on Wednesday, December 17, worked out well; we had plans to take Christmas snacks up to the nurses at Presby on that day so we were able to take care of both things at the same time! It was great to be able to bless these wonderful nurses who ministered to Ron (as well as our entire family!) for so long with such professionalism, care and compassion. They hold a very special place in our hearts. It was a very rough day on him but he was determined to stick it out.
We also saw Dr. Shires and he reminded us "the rule of thumb for rehab after a lengthy illness is 3 days for every day in hospital. So you're still looking at a good 21 months or so". I know we've been told this before, but it's still hard to hear; especially for Ron. And as we talked about it later, he admitted it was very discouraging, but he did agree at least it's good to know that his lack of energy and his extreme fatigue is not unexpected or out of the ordinary. As hard as it is to imagine, he's still got a very lengthy healing process ahead.
We received CT results Friday before we left which showed "no abscess or infection in the chest, pelvis or abdomen. And no abdominal abscess, inflammation, kinking or blockage" All good news. (Another blood workup was done before we left town and white blood count had considerably decreased, now at a slightly elevated level of 11,000) .
Reflux and regurgitation comes and goes. Extreme fatigue goes without saying. For instance, after going to church, he has to come home and take a 2 hour (or more) nap. I also know he doesn't interact with others because it requires so much expended energy it's exhausting. If you notice, his entire posture looks very stiff (especially the way he holds his hands at an odd angle) which is caused by muscle fatigue and tightness. And he often struggles with difficulty sleeping at night.
He did pretty well on our Christmas vacation; some sinking spells and a few puking episodes but overall it was a good trip. It was great for him to be surrounded by his family. And of course there was plenty of family there! As well as lots of great food to try to fatten him up a little! Only one afternoon did things get really bad and he had to give in to a few hours in bed and a little bit of a pity party, but who can blame the guy???
Ron has spent today sleeping off and on; I'm trying to cut him some slack and have only forced him out for one walk and a short trip to the grocery store. But tomorrow, I'm hoping to start whipping him back into shape! (At least get him back into a more consistent sleeping, eating and physical therapy schedule).
Keep praying....God hears and answers!
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas from Hyatt Lost Pines Resort!
It's our year to do a big Nordell Christmas and Mom & Dad Nordell are graciously treating the group to a 5 day stay at the beautiful Hyatt Lost Pines Resort, down outside of Austin. It's been so good to get away and enjoy time with family in a relaxing setting. We've made s'mores around the campfire while listening to singing cowboys; drove in to Austin for the Trail of Lights in Zilker Park with Ron in wheelchair, bundled up with blankets, taken walks around the grounds and the girls have enjoyed the fitness facility, hot tubs and even the pool--the outdoor pool is heated to 85 and it's great!
And yes, way before leaving we received instructions from Dr. A where to go in case any problems arise. He even has friends on staff at the hospital down in Austin he will contact if needed. How blessed we are to have such caring, proactive doctors!
Only problem we've had thus far has been totally my fault (although completely accidental!)....we convinced Ron to join us for horseshoes and be my partner (bad idea to begin with...I'm awful at horseshoes!). At one point he was watching the game in the pit next to us, one of my wonderful throws took a bad bounce, hit his calf--gouging his leg making it bleed quite a bit and putting a huge goose egg on it! I felt awful!!! Being the trooper he is, he played through the pain and says it's ok today.
After gifts with our small family, and a plethora of stocking stuffers with all 19 Nordell's in attendance; we enjoyed a huge Christmas feast and then we all headed to the golf course to ride along with those who were playing. It was glorious to see Ron back in his element, although it was bittersweet for him. He enjoyed it tremendously, but it also made him miss it even more. He did try swinging a club on the driving range and managed to shank a few before giving out. The smile on his face as he swung the club was priceless! He also drove the golf cart (first driving of any kind in almost 15 months) around a portion of the course.
I'll try to get pictures up soon!
Christmas blessings to you and yours!
Christie
And yes, way before leaving we received instructions from Dr. A where to go in case any problems arise. He even has friends on staff at the hospital down in Austin he will contact if needed. How blessed we are to have such caring, proactive doctors!
Only problem we've had thus far has been totally my fault (although completely accidental!)....we convinced Ron to join us for horseshoes and be my partner (bad idea to begin with...I'm awful at horseshoes!). At one point he was watching the game in the pit next to us, one of my wonderful throws took a bad bounce, hit his calf--gouging his leg making it bleed quite a bit and putting a huge goose egg on it! I felt awful!!! Being the trooper he is, he played through the pain and says it's ok today.
After gifts with our small family, and a plethora of stocking stuffers with all 19 Nordell's in attendance; we enjoyed a huge Christmas feast and then we all headed to the golf course to ride along with those who were playing. It was glorious to see Ron back in his element, although it was bittersweet for him. He enjoyed it tremendously, but it also made him miss it even more. He did try swinging a club on the driving range and managed to shank a few before giving out. The smile on his face as he swung the club was priceless! He also drove the golf cart (first driving of any kind in almost 15 months) around a portion of the course.
I'll try to get pictures up soon!
Christmas blessings to you and yours!
Christie
Thursday, December 11, 2008
The Warrior is a Child
Thanks for your comments and words of encouragement! Please know we are not walking around constantly down and depressed. Yes, it's difficult and we have times we feel we want to throw in the towel, but we also know we have a Mighty God we can always rely on, not just when the battle gets to be overwhelming. He is with us ALWAYS....in reality, this battle belongs to Him! And we are blessed by you, our ever-faithful prayer warriors!
Music has a way of stirring my soul and this song has been playing in my heart and mind for months now...one of our anthems of sorts.
Warrior is a Child
Twila Paris
Lately I've been winning battles left and right
But even winners can get wounded in the fight
People say that I'm amazing
Strong beyond my years
But they don't see inside of me
I'm hiding all the tears
(Chorus)
They don't know
that I go running home when I fall down
They don't know
who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and cry for just a while
'Cause deep inside this armour
The warrior is a child
Unafraid because his armour is the best
But even soldiers need a quiet place to rest
People say that I'm amazing
Never face retreat
But they don't see the enemies
That lay me at His feet
They don't know
that I go running home when I fall down
They don't know
who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and look up for His smile
Because deep inside this armour
Deep inside this armour
Deep inside this armour
The Warrior is a Child
(I pray it is evident to everyone we come in contact with Who we go running home to!!)
Much love!
Christie
Music has a way of stirring my soul and this song has been playing in my heart and mind for months now...one of our anthems of sorts.
Warrior is a Child
Twila Paris
Lately I've been winning battles left and right
But even winners can get wounded in the fight
People say that I'm amazing
Strong beyond my years
But they don't see inside of me
I'm hiding all the tears
(Chorus)
They don't know
that I go running home when I fall down
They don't know
who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and cry for just a while
'Cause deep inside this armour
The warrior is a child
Unafraid because his armour is the best
But even soldiers need a quiet place to rest
People say that I'm amazing
Never face retreat
But they don't see the enemies
That lay me at His feet
They don't know
that I go running home when I fall down
They don't know
who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and look up for His smile
Because deep inside this armour
Deep inside this armour
Deep inside this armour
The Warrior is a Child
(I pray it is evident to everyone we come in contact with Who we go running home to!!)
Much love!
Christie
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Been a while...
...what can I say??? It's hard to keep reporting the same things over and over.
First off, one year ago today Ron had another emergency surgery. I remember so clearly being in Ron's room as they were preparing to rush him back down to ICU (still at HEB at this point) because he was having another crash. The tube feed was causing stool to leak into his abdominal cavity which once again caused sepsis. And on top of this, his blood sugar had gotten dangerously low so they were injecting glucose as he was being wheeled to ICU. Pastor Tommy and Danny had just arrived and we asked everyone to stop long enough for us to pray over Ron. Afterwards, one of the nurses' said "we are born again believers, too"! What a sweet encouragement, to have his caregiver's join us in this way.
Dr. E had to clean out his abdominal cavity and in the process also found a very large hematoma in his chest cavity. This chain of events confirmed it would be in Ron's best interest to transfer to Presbyterian, which took place 4 days later.
Now, to catch you up on the last 10 days:
For those of you who talk to my husband, let me tell you (and I say this with the utmost love and respect)...he's trying to be politically correct! (My politically correct way of saying he's a liar!) If you ask him how he's feeling, he'll tell you what you want to hear: "I'm good" "doing well" "getting better", etc. If you want to know the real scoop, ask me!
Reality:
Ron continues to experience extreme fatigue and has been having difficulty sleeping again which doesn't help matters--makes his muscles feel like rubber bands, and keeps his brain in a fog, along with a multitude of other side effects. Last week, sleeping problems were caused by belly being very tight, therefore, he couldn't get comfortable so waking sporadically and then took a while to go back to sleep. Belly tightness had gotten better, but last week he had a very hard sneeze that "felt like it pulled something". Had excruciating pain for about 24 hours, even back to taking hydrocodone for a couple of days (obviously, we had to discontinue PT.)
To me, he seems to have gone backwards. He had been V-E-R-Y S-L-O-W-L-Y progressing but since his last hospital stay in October, he's just never seemed to get back to where he was...then, of course, the wedding was hard on him, as well as Thanksgiving festivities.
Reflux had been somewhat better, but in the last week has gotten really bad again; bringing with it, more regurgitation. And even though his appetite has increased , his weight has not; he has actually lost 4 more pounds, Honestly, I've been a little concerned.
We had an appointment with Dr. A today and he is very concerned with the weight issue in particular; and other issues as well. Therefore, we are adjusting some of his meds. Dr. A wants to once again start the process of slowly decreasing steroid, so I'm on the alert for increased weakness & puny-ness these next few days.
AND, if things don't improve and he doesn't start gaining weight, he'll have to be put back on TPN. Not something any of us (including Dr. A) wants but he cannot continue to go backwards.
Dr. A also thinks he may have thrush in his esophagus, which could be causing the increased reflux, so he's back on the Nystatin (that lovely swish and swallow) for the next 3 days...if it is Thrush, we should see a difference in this amount of time. He also said it's a good thing Ron wasn't still on Lovenox (blood thinner) or the hard sneeze would have caused another huge hematoma. And, now that the pain has gotten better, he wants Ron to start back on physical therapy. He is also increasing antidepressant and wants him sipping on nutritional drinks throughout the day so that he's getting a trickle of protein and other nutrients between regular meals.
Please pray that the combination of all of these changes will help him regain strength, stamina, energy, weight, etc.
And pray that we will stand firm....I must confess this last week has been hard, physically & emotionally--we're at a difficult place; seemingly stagnant and at times even feels we're regressing. It makes me so sad...I just want my husband back! I miss his interaction (with me and others), his enthusiasm for life and mostly his joyful spirit. Some days we are so weary of this battle.
This is our prayer:
"We try to live in such a way that no one will be hindered from finding the Lord by the way we act...In everything we do we try to show that we are true ministers of God. We (try to) patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamaties of every kind...Our hearts ache, but we (strive to) always have joy. We are poor, but we give spiritual riches to others. We own nothing and yet we have everything." 2 Corinthians 6:3, 4 & 10 NLT (emphasis mine)
Much love to you and yours!
First off, one year ago today Ron had another emergency surgery. I remember so clearly being in Ron's room as they were preparing to rush him back down to ICU (still at HEB at this point) because he was having another crash. The tube feed was causing stool to leak into his abdominal cavity which once again caused sepsis. And on top of this, his blood sugar had gotten dangerously low so they were injecting glucose as he was being wheeled to ICU. Pastor Tommy and Danny had just arrived and we asked everyone to stop long enough for us to pray over Ron. Afterwards, one of the nurses' said "we are born again believers, too"! What a sweet encouragement, to have his caregiver's join us in this way.
Dr. E had to clean out his abdominal cavity and in the process also found a very large hematoma in his chest cavity. This chain of events confirmed it would be in Ron's best interest to transfer to Presbyterian, which took place 4 days later.
Now, to catch you up on the last 10 days:
For those of you who talk to my husband, let me tell you (and I say this with the utmost love and respect)...he's trying to be politically correct! (My politically correct way of saying he's a liar!) If you ask him how he's feeling, he'll tell you what you want to hear: "I'm good" "doing well" "getting better", etc. If you want to know the real scoop, ask me!
Reality:
Ron continues to experience extreme fatigue and has been having difficulty sleeping again which doesn't help matters--makes his muscles feel like rubber bands, and keeps his brain in a fog, along with a multitude of other side effects. Last week, sleeping problems were caused by belly being very tight, therefore, he couldn't get comfortable so waking sporadically and then took a while to go back to sleep. Belly tightness had gotten better, but last week he had a very hard sneeze that "felt like it pulled something". Had excruciating pain for about 24 hours, even back to taking hydrocodone for a couple of days (obviously, we had to discontinue PT.)
To me, he seems to have gone backwards. He had been V-E-R-Y S-L-O-W-L-Y progressing but since his last hospital stay in October, he's just never seemed to get back to where he was...then, of course, the wedding was hard on him, as well as Thanksgiving festivities.
Reflux had been somewhat better, but in the last week has gotten really bad again; bringing with it, more regurgitation. And even though his appetite has increased , his weight has not; he has actually lost 4 more pounds, Honestly, I've been a little concerned.
We had an appointment with Dr. A today and he is very concerned with the weight issue in particular; and other issues as well. Therefore, we are adjusting some of his meds. Dr. A wants to once again start the process of slowly decreasing steroid, so I'm on the alert for increased weakness & puny-ness these next few days.
AND, if things don't improve and he doesn't start gaining weight, he'll have to be put back on TPN. Not something any of us (including Dr. A) wants but he cannot continue to go backwards.
Dr. A also thinks he may have thrush in his esophagus, which could be causing the increased reflux, so he's back on the Nystatin (that lovely swish and swallow) for the next 3 days...if it is Thrush, we should see a difference in this amount of time. He also said it's a good thing Ron wasn't still on Lovenox (blood thinner) or the hard sneeze would have caused another huge hematoma. And, now that the pain has gotten better, he wants Ron to start back on physical therapy. He is also increasing antidepressant and wants him sipping on nutritional drinks throughout the day so that he's getting a trickle of protein and other nutrients between regular meals.
Please pray that the combination of all of these changes will help him regain strength, stamina, energy, weight, etc.
And pray that we will stand firm....I must confess this last week has been hard, physically & emotionally--we're at a difficult place; seemingly stagnant and at times even feels we're regressing. It makes me so sad...I just want my husband back! I miss his interaction (with me and others), his enthusiasm for life and mostly his joyful spirit. Some days we are so weary of this battle.
This is our prayer:
"We try to live in such a way that no one will be hindered from finding the Lord by the way we act...In everything we do we try to show that we are true ministers of God. We (try to) patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamaties of every kind...Our hearts ache, but we (strive to) always have joy. We are poor, but we give spiritual riches to others. We own nothing and yet we have everything." 2 Corinthians 6:3, 4 & 10 NLT (emphasis mine)
Much love to you and yours!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Thanksgiving & stuff or Thanksgiving stuffed?
It's been a nice, quiet week around the Nordell household. I've enjoyed being off of work Wednesday through Sunday and I know Ron has been happy to have me around, as well. His days are usually pretty long, lonely and boring.
Wednesday we had a games night with Ron's Mom & Dad along with Laurie & Tony and their kids. Aaron & Kristin joined us for a while before heading to Abilene to spend Thanksgiving with Kristin's family.
Thanksgiving Day was spent with my sister Debbie and her family, my Dad & Mary Francis, and Ryan & Stacee. Lots of good food, hanging out watching football; and reflecting on how God has blessed us so incredibly throughout this last year. The two day's events really took a toll on Ron and he slept until 1PM Friday. After 11, I started periodically checking to make sure he was still breathing! It was good to have the quiet time to be able to work on the bazillion thank-you notes I'm behind on. I am determined to get them finished by Christmas...but if I leave anyone out, please, please forgive me and know that you are very much appreciated...my list got misplaced and I'm trying to go off of scraps of paper from here, there and everywhere; along with my memory...now that's a scary thought!
Saturday, we were up and out the door early (well, early for Ron) as we headed to Granbury for another day of family fun with my side of the family (minus Tami & her crew who live in Georgia) with the added bonus of our favorite Aunt Jackie, technically my first cousin, once removed; did I get that right, Jackie? She's the geneology buff in the family.
We met at Dad's for a light lunch, then headed to the square where we were treated to Granbury Live's Lone Star Christmas. What a talented group of performers! After a little shopping on the square, we all went to Babe's (restaurant famous for it's southern home-cooked dinner served family-style). Yummy! Ron decided to risk it and go for it all. It was delicious going down....but not so much fun coming back up later. Poor guy! He was miserable with bad stomach cramps by the time we got home. Overall, it had been a good day. It was exhausting on him physically and he slept until 12:45 Sunday, but he thoroughly enjoyed being out with the family.
Tomorrow, we have to get back into routine with better eating and sleeping habits as well as back on schedule with physical therapy twice a day.
Please continue to pray for his body to gain strength, energy and stamina; along with some weight. Even though he is eating more, he continues to lose weight. Not a good thing.
Hope your Thanksgiving was a good one!
PS: Thanksgiving last year it snowed! I remember leaving Harris HEB and running to Deb's to grab a quick bite to eat during shift change and it snowed on me! I was so excited to share it with Ron but the tiny window in his ICU room did not allow him to see it.
Wednesday we had a games night with Ron's Mom & Dad along with Laurie & Tony and their kids. Aaron & Kristin joined us for a while before heading to Abilene to spend Thanksgiving with Kristin's family.
Thanksgiving Day was spent with my sister Debbie and her family, my Dad & Mary Francis, and Ryan & Stacee. Lots of good food, hanging out watching football; and reflecting on how God has blessed us so incredibly throughout this last year. The two day's events really took a toll on Ron and he slept until 1PM Friday. After 11, I started periodically checking to make sure he was still breathing! It was good to have the quiet time to be able to work on the bazillion thank-you notes I'm behind on. I am determined to get them finished by Christmas...but if I leave anyone out, please, please forgive me and know that you are very much appreciated...my list got misplaced and I'm trying to go off of scraps of paper from here, there and everywhere; along with my memory...now that's a scary thought!
Saturday, we were up and out the door early (well, early for Ron) as we headed to Granbury for another day of family fun with my side of the family (minus Tami & her crew who live in Georgia) with the added bonus of our favorite Aunt Jackie, technically my first cousin, once removed; did I get that right, Jackie? She's the geneology buff in the family.
We met at Dad's for a light lunch, then headed to the square where we were treated to Granbury Live's Lone Star Christmas. What a talented group of performers! After a little shopping on the square, we all went to Babe's (restaurant famous for it's southern home-cooked dinner served family-style). Yummy! Ron decided to risk it and go for it all. It was delicious going down....but not so much fun coming back up later. Poor guy! He was miserable with bad stomach cramps by the time we got home. Overall, it had been a good day. It was exhausting on him physically and he slept until 12:45 Sunday, but he thoroughly enjoyed being out with the family.
Tomorrow, we have to get back into routine with better eating and sleeping habits as well as back on schedule with physical therapy twice a day.
Please continue to pray for his body to gain strength, energy and stamina; along with some weight. Even though he is eating more, he continues to lose weight. Not a good thing.
Hope your Thanksgiving was a good one!
PS: Thanksgiving last year it snowed! I remember leaving Harris HEB and running to Deb's to grab a quick bite to eat during shift change and it snowed on me! I was so excited to share it with Ron but the tiny window in his ICU room did not allow him to see it.
The Potter's Hands
This morning as I was reading, this chapter in Jeremiah really hit home with me.
"This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says to you,...You have said, 'I am overwhelmed with trouble! Haven't I had enough pain already? And now the Lord has added more! I am weary of my own sighing and can find no rest,' ...this is what the Lord says: ... Are you seeking great things for yourself? Don't do it! But don't be discouraged...I will protect you wherever you go. I, the Lord, have spoken!" Jeremiah 45: 2-5 NLT
We often pray to be delivered from afflictions, and even trust God that we will be. But we do not pray for Him to make us what we should be while in the midst of the afflictions. Nor do we pray that we would be able to live within them, for however long they may last, in the complete awareness that we are held and sheltered by the Lord and can therefore continue within them.... from Streams in the Desert (emphasis mine)
Reference note in NIV tells us (again, emphasis mine):
We are to take our eyes off ourself and whatever reward we think we deserve. If we do this, God will protect us. It's easy to lose the joy of serving our God when we take our eyes off Him. The more we look away from God's purposes toward our own sacrifices, the more frustrated we will become. As we serve God, we must beware of focusing on what we are giving up. When this happens, we are to ask God's forgiveness, then redirect our attention to the incomparable privilege of serving God.
These readings reminded me how several weeks ago in church Ron and I both were quite overcome as we sang the following song. This is our prayer; no matter how difficult the process!
"The Potter's Hands"
Beautiful Lord, Wonderful Saviour
I know for sure, all of my days are held in Your hands
Crafted into Your perfect plan
You gently call me, into Your presence
Guiding me by, Your Holy Spirit
Teach me dear Lord
To live all of my life through Your eyes
I'm captured by, Your Holy calling
Set me apart
I know You're drawing me to Yourself
Lead me Lord I pray
Take me, Mold me
Use me, Fill me
I give my life to the Potter's hands
Hold me, Guide me
Lead me, Walk beside me
I give my life to the Potter's hand
Father, help me keep my eyes on YOU for it's a privilege to be called worthy to serve YOU! May I be willing to allow You to mold me and make me into that which brings You honor and glory; always mindful that I am held in the palm of Your hand!
"This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says to you,...You have said, 'I am overwhelmed with trouble! Haven't I had enough pain already? And now the Lord has added more! I am weary of my own sighing and can find no rest,' ...this is what the Lord says: ... Are you seeking great things for yourself? Don't do it! But don't be discouraged...I will protect you wherever you go. I, the Lord, have spoken!" Jeremiah 45: 2-5 NLT
We often pray to be delivered from afflictions, and even trust God that we will be. But we do not pray for Him to make us what we should be while in the midst of the afflictions. Nor do we pray that we would be able to live within them, for however long they may last, in the complete awareness that we are held and sheltered by the Lord and can therefore continue within them.... from Streams in the Desert (emphasis mine)
Reference note in NIV tells us (again, emphasis mine):
We are to take our eyes off ourself and whatever reward we think we deserve. If we do this, God will protect us. It's easy to lose the joy of serving our God when we take our eyes off Him. The more we look away from God's purposes toward our own sacrifices, the more frustrated we will become. As we serve God, we must beware of focusing on what we are giving up. When this happens, we are to ask God's forgiveness, then redirect our attention to the incomparable privilege of serving God.
These readings reminded me how several weeks ago in church Ron and I both were quite overcome as we sang the following song. This is our prayer; no matter how difficult the process!
"The Potter's Hands"
Beautiful Lord, Wonderful Saviour
I know for sure, all of my days are held in Your hands
Crafted into Your perfect plan
You gently call me, into Your presence
Guiding me by, Your Holy Spirit
Teach me dear Lord
To live all of my life through Your eyes
I'm captured by, Your Holy calling
Set me apart
I know You're drawing me to Yourself
Lead me Lord I pray
Take me, Mold me
Use me, Fill me
I give my life to the Potter's hands
Hold me, Guide me
Lead me, Walk beside me
I give my life to the Potter's hand
Father, help me keep my eyes on YOU for it's a privilege to be called worthy to serve YOU! May I be willing to allow You to mold me and make me into that which brings You honor and glory; always mindful that I am held in the palm of Your hand!
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Thankful....for YOU!
We couldn't let Thanksgiving pass without taking the opportunity to say how thankful we are for each of you!
God has blessed us incredibly through you and we are who we are, where we are, because of you! Your love, encouragement, financial support and, most of all, your prayers, are invaluable!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Much love,
Christie & Ron
God has blessed us incredibly through you and we are who we are, where we are, because of you! Your love, encouragement, financial support and, most of all, your prayers, are invaluable!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Much love,
Christie & Ron
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Blessed be Your Name
I always have such good intentions to update more often but now that we are flying solo (permanently) my plate is extremely full!
Good and not-so good to report this week:
Good
Good and not-so good to report this week:
Good
- Appetite has definitely increased! Ron is now eating full size portions at mealtimes and often asking for seconds! It was music to my ears to hear him say "I'm hungry"!
- Tremoring has definitely decreased.
- Sleep cycle is much improved.
- Has had no pain meds in two weeks!!!
- Reflux and regurgitation has greatly improved...only puking about once or twice a week!
Not so good
- still having great difficulty with weakness & lethargy, energy, strength, stamina
- very down and lacking in motivation
- continued "brain fog" (you know when you have the flu and you just feel like you can't concentrate or focus on anything)
There are days that his actions remind me of how I felt for so long as I was in the acute stages of my illness; hardly able to drag myself from bed to chair, extremely tired after a simple shower, neglecting to eat because it just takes too much energy to deal with; it's been a rough week for him. It's especially hard for me to see him this way and to have to go to work each day; I so want to be home with him to help him through this rough time. But we have to trust that God knows what's going on; and I definitely have to work...gotta have that paycheck and insurance!
Then, there are times I almost feel guilty that I get to go off to work, escape all of this and feel like life is normal. Other days I just want to pack it all up, get on a plane and head to some beach, some where! Of course, in this state of delusion, Ron is with me and we are able to enjoy a carefree life with no restrictions; just relax, hang out, live off our love and the land! HA!! But then, back to the fact he can't ever escape reality.
Dr. A had wanted Ron to start physical therapy last week but he was adamant we could not afford it and that we would get Ryan and Stacee to set him up a plan after they returned from their honeymoon. I felt it would be great to have him have to be accountable to someone else and that might motivate him a little more but definitely agree with the wisdom of not having to pay for it.
So tonight, we had a house call from newlywed Dr.'s Ryan and Stacee Nordell! It was so fun to watch them in action! They did a PT evaluation and have set him up on a daily therapy schedule. It will be very hard on him at first, his body is not used to the physical activity and he'll be doing "two a days" to help develop endurance and stamina; working on building strength and stretching out those muscles that have become so deconditioned, as well as breaking up scar tissue that has hardened and "scarred down". I'm sure he'll be napping more as his body adjusts to all this physical activity.
We've also begun looking into the process of seeing if Ron qualifies for Social Security disability benefits...so far, it does not look very promising but we'll continue to search to see if there is a way.
No one is willing to guess at any kind of timeline as to when he will once again be employable; however, we do know that he will not be able to return to the physical labor side of the business we own. Right now the business is struggling along--able to cover most of the cost of running it along with paying our one employee but not able to afford us a paycheck. We know God will continue to provide for our every need; but we struggle to keep our thoughts from becoming anxious.
Over the past couple of weeks we've surprassed the year mark of many memorable dates : November 4 being given a very grim prognosis and praying the boys would make it home in time to see their Dad one last time. November 6 miraculously Ron pulled through and survived then underwent another surgery with a high mortality rate to contain bleeding and do damage control. November 17, another "dying spell" and urgent phone call to Ryan in Florida to catch the next flight home. Through it all, God has remained our Rock, our Strength, our Hope, our ever present Help in times of need, as well as our Song.
As we look back on this last year we have so very much to be thankful for; including you, our faithful prayer warriors! Thank you, for standing in the gap, faithfully bringing our needs to the Father as well as providing for us physically, spiritually, emotionally, and financially. We are very blessed because of you! And thanks for being willing listeners as you indulge me as I use these ramblings as my therapy session!
Life is often hard; but God is ALWAYS GOOD!
Christie
The following song has been on my heart and in my head for the last couple of weeks. And then, we sang it in church this morning. These lyrics are very fitting and really speak to me.
Blessed be Your name; In the land that is plentiful; Where the streams of abundance flow; Blessed be Your name
Blessed be Your name; When I'm found in the desert place; Though I walk through the wilderness; Blessed be Your name
Every blessing You pour out, I turn back to praise; When the darkness closes in, Lord; Still I will say...
Blessed be the name of the Lord; Blessed be Your name; Blessed be the name of the Lord; Blessed be Your glorious name
Blessed be Your name; When the sun's shining down on me; When the world's all as it should be; Blessed be Your name
Blessed be Your name; On the road marked with suffering; Though there's pain in the offering; Blessed be Your name
Every blessing You pour out, I turn back to praise; When the darkness closes in, Lord; Still I will say...
Blessed be the name of the Lord; Blessed be Your name; Blessed be the name of the Lord; Blessed be Your glorious name
You give and take away; You give and take away; My heart will choose to say; Lord, Blessed be Your name
Saturday, November 15, 2008
"Wrestling" Ramblings....
“Jacob wrestled with God” is the title to a section of verses in Genesis 32
I’ve always struggled with this idea… It almost seems sacrilegious to think of Jacob physically fighting God. My thoughts scream "How dare Jacob wrestle (fight!) with God?"
And today, as I read again this section in Genesis, I thought how vain of me to think I’m so holy; that I would passively, willingly accept whatever God had in store…my pride (oh, how I hate that word!) made me think I would never be so bold as to question God in such a physical way!
Yet, how often do I wrestle with God…pleading with Him to find another way to accomplish His will?
I remember vividly November 4, 2008, begging, pleading; bargaining with God. Telling Him if it was His will for Ron to die, I knew He would make sure we were ok; but I didn’t want this to be His will! I wanted to grow old with Ron; experience the joys of life... family, grandkids,
retirement…together!
But in essence, hadn’t I fought with God? Yes, I know His plan will always prevail…I can choose to submit to it and receive the blessing or fight it, knowing His plan will still come about; difference is I’m the one who loses the blessing. Yet, I also know He wants me to be passionate and fervent in my prayers! So, how does this fit together???
Throughout the Bible we read stories of people “wrestling” with God:
Abraham begged God to spare Sodom and Gomorrah even if “only ten innocent people are found there.”
Moses pleaded on behalf of the Israelites—even after they had made an idol while he was on the mountain with God receiving His instructions for His people.
Jonah ran from God and ended up in the belly of a whale! He didn’t want to go and preach God’s word because he “knew” God would change His mind once the Ninevites repented.
Even Jesus asked His Father if there was any other way this “cup” could pass
How does this all fit together? I suppose the key is obedience; He understands our desire to avoid suffering and honors our obedience to follow His will, whatever the cost.
Reference in Life Application Study Bible (NIV) says “Jacob continued this wrestling match all night just to be blessed. He was persistent. God encourages persistence in all areas of our lives, including the spiritual. Where in your life do you need more persistence? Strong character develops as you struggle through tough conditions.”
Hmmmm.....
I’ve always struggled with this idea… It almost seems sacrilegious to think of Jacob physically fighting God. My thoughts scream "How dare Jacob wrestle (fight!) with God?"
And today, as I read again this section in Genesis, I thought how vain of me to think I’m so holy; that I would passively, willingly accept whatever God had in store…my pride (oh, how I hate that word!) made me think I would never be so bold as to question God in such a physical way!
Yet, how often do I wrestle with God…pleading with Him to find another way to accomplish His will?
I remember vividly November 4, 2008, begging, pleading; bargaining with God. Telling Him if it was His will for Ron to die, I knew He would make sure we were ok; but I didn’t want this to be His will! I wanted to grow old with Ron; experience the joys of life... family, grandkids,
retirement…together!
But in essence, hadn’t I fought with God? Yes, I know His plan will always prevail…I can choose to submit to it and receive the blessing or fight it, knowing His plan will still come about; difference is I’m the one who loses the blessing. Yet, I also know He wants me to be passionate and fervent in my prayers! So, how does this fit together???
Throughout the Bible we read stories of people “wrestling” with God:
Abraham begged God to spare Sodom and Gomorrah even if “only ten innocent people are found there.”
Moses pleaded on behalf of the Israelites—even after they had made an idol while he was on the mountain with God receiving His instructions for His people.
Jonah ran from God and ended up in the belly of a whale! He didn’t want to go and preach God’s word because he “knew” God would change His mind once the Ninevites repented.
Even Jesus asked His Father if there was any other way this “cup” could pass
How does this all fit together? I suppose the key is obedience; He understands our desire to avoid suffering and honors our obedience to follow His will, whatever the cost.
Reference in Life Application Study Bible (NIV) says “Jacob continued this wrestling match all night just to be blessed. He was persistent. God encourages persistence in all areas of our lives, including the spiritual. Where in your life do you need more persistence? Strong character develops as you struggle through tough conditions.”
Hmmmm.....
Free at last!!!!
After 12 months and 26 days (but who's counting, right?) Ron is officially free of all medical paraphernalia! Yes, he's totally tubeless! Hallelujah, PICC line has been removed...thank you, Dr. A! Joy of all joys...he can now shower any time he wants (ah, the small things we take for granted)! No more timing showers around someone being available to wrap his arm to protect PICC line; and no more daily flushes....Praise GOD! AND, home health services have been discontinued , which means no more weekly blood draws; down to just monthly doctor appointments. Things are S-L-O-W-L-Y progressing, but it is progress! Can I get an AMEN???
Although this has been a very rough week for him--not sure if it's just taking a long time to recuperate from our very busy wedding weekend or what. We have several issues we are dealing with:
Although this has been a very rough week for him--not sure if it's just taking a long time to recuperate from our very busy wedding weekend or what. We have several issues we are dealing with:
- very lethargic...no energy, stamina or motivation
- feels like he's always in a "brain fog".
- continues to have trouble getting enough nutritional value in the foods he is able to eat therefore is still losing weight (down to 172).
- having great difficulty sleeping at night.
After much deliberating, decision was made to put him on a low-dose antidepressant; we don't necessarily feel he is "depressed" but a medication that has properties that will act as an appetite stimulant and will also help adjust his sleep cycle. We are also focusing on making sure he is eating many small portions a day that are packed with nutrition, as well as encouraging some exercise several times throughout the day by walking. The hope is that once he is eating more often, walking more and getting uninterrupted sleep, he will begin to regain stamina and energy as well as the motivation to try to do more. It's a catch 22...he needs to walk to improve his stamina but doesn't feel he has the energy to get out and walk.
We are also trying to work on ways to improve his muscle tone, strength and posture. Because of the repeated abdominal surgeries, he has no abdominal musculature since it was too fragile to heal together any longer. Basically, the only thing keeping him upright is his spine, which obviously causes a lot of stress on his back. And as the scar tissue in his belly continues to heal, it draws him even further forward into a stooped position. He literally has to work on "tearing" the scar tissue, keeping it from "scarring down". As part of that process, he has to massage Vitamin E oil onto his belly while pushing on the scar tissue to help break it up; not a fun belly rub! He is also to work on stretching his belly, as well as strengthening his back and side muscles to compensate for the lack of abdominal muscle. A lot to work on for a guy who has no energy and just feels crummy all of the time.
Please pray he will soon be able to feel the progress. I have to confess, it's been especially hard emotionally for both of us these last few days. Not sure why....we're thrilled with getting the PICC line out and that he's at a point they feel he no longer needs home health but I guess at this stage of the game, we thought he'd be "feeling" better. At times, we just so weary of the battle! I know we should be thankful for all the progress he has made and how far he has come in this last year and believe me we ARE....and we never take for granted how God has blessed. It's just BEEN SO LONG and we are so ready...... But then, I'm reminded we are to live in today....not always wishing for tomorrow but be thankful for where we are and what God is doing NOW!
Thanks for joining us in the journey!
Christie
"I have singled him out so that he will direct his sons and their families to keep the way of the Lord and do what is right and just. Then I will do for him all that I have promised" Genesis 18:19
God knows that you can withstand your trial, or else He would not have given it to you. His trust in you explains the trials of your life, no matter how severe they may be. God knows your strength, and He measures it to the last inch. Remember, no trial has ever been given to anyone that was greater than that person's strength, THROUGH GOD, to endure it.
From Streams in the Desert
"If you think you are standing strong, be careful, for you, too, may fall...But remember that the temptations that come into your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can't stand up against it. When you are tempted, He will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it."
I Corinthians 10:31
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Beautiful Day for a Wedding!
Saturday arrived sunny and clear! Thank you, Father, for honoring Ryan and Stacee's special day!
Ryan and Stacee went out for a private breakfast (no superstitions in this family!) before all the craziness began. Stacee's mom had arranged for a limo to pick up all the girls to take them to their various hair and make-up appointments! Great fun for all! Stacee and the girls arrived at the church around 12:30; I was so impressed she was cool as a cucumber!
The ceremony was a beautiful celebration of the love they have found with each other in Christ. (I'll write their incredible story in another post soon.) A fairly traditional ceremony with a very personal touch with Pastor Tommy officiating and Pastor Darrin (from First Baptist Euless where Ryan and Stacee have gotten plugged into the nearly/newly married department) saying a few words, as well.
The slide show was set to a song by Martina McBride "Born to Give My Love to You" and for the lighting of the Unity Candle they chose "I Will Be Here" by Stephen Curtis Chapman. Nothing quite as wonderful as seeing your prayers come to fruition as your son marries a Godly woman, someone you have prayed for for years without even knowing who she would be; desiring to place God first in their marriage....excited about how He wants to use their life together to minister to others.
Then, off to the reception!
Thanks to our go-to girl, Marcie, and her accomplice, Barbie; along with florist AprilMayJune, the ballroom at Diamond Oaks Country Club was beautiful! Stacee did a great job with her color choices, floral selections, etc. and it all came together so well! I know she was very pleased.
The food was great, DJ was lots of fun and Braden Harris (photographer) was snapping pics like crazy! She was very excited about the fun photo ops Stacee had planned. And the cake.....fabulous; Anna's Cakes, best cake I've ever had!! Italian cream for 2 layers and strawberry for 2 layers for the bride's cake and molten chocolate for the groom's cake. Beautiful and delicious, what a combination!
Ryan & Stacee's first dance was to Michael Buble's "Everything"; father/grandfather-daughter dance "My Girl"; mother-son dance "My Wish". And then the fun really began...dance floor was open to everyone! And let me tell you...this family (along with our friends!) really knows how to party! We were a bunch of dancing fools!
After a rose-petal send-off, Ryan and Stacee headed off in her cute little Audi convertible! They stayed at the Grand Hyatt out at the airport Saturday night, then caught a 6AM flight to St. Lucia where they are staying at one of the Sandal's resorts.
I cannot begin to tell you how wonderful it was to have so many family members helping out (along with Don and Marcie)....everyone pitched in to get things cleared out, with Don and Marcie carting it all and unloading back at our house. And a special thanks to my sister, Tami, for getting Ron home and settled in.
It was a very rough day for Ron and he was looking pretty fragile. Quite honestly I was afraid we were going to end up in the ER. I was praying fervently he would hold in there and he did; just barely! Although, he wouldn't have missed this day for anything!
I wish we could have invited every one of you to the wedding and reception....but Diamond Oaks would not have been able to hold all of you dear friends! Hope you enjoyed this little taste of the celebration!
There was no way I could have messed with a camera this weekend. Thanks to Mom, Lori, Nancy & Lianna for sharing these! I'll post more as I receive them from those who were there!
“The Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.’” Genesis 2:18
So the Lord God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep; and while he was sleeping, He took one of the man’s ribs and closed up the place with flesh. Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib He had taken out of the man and He brought her to the man. The man said, ‘This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called woman for she was taken out of man.’ For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” Genesis 2:21-24
So the Lord God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep; and while he was sleeping, He took one of the man’s ribs and closed up the place with flesh. Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib He had taken out of the man and He brought her to the man. The man said, ‘This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called woman for she was taken out of man.’ For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” Genesis 2:21-24
Love, Christie
Monday, November 10, 2008
The celebration begins!
Wedding activities began with the bridal party and a few of the girls in the family arriving early Friday morning to decorate the church. Then, on to The Garden Cottage Tea Room where 24 of us gathered to celebrate Stacee and her bridesmaids... Kristen, Stephanie, Geraldine, Angela, Kristin and house attendant Carla.
We then split up and the bridal party, along with Stacee's mom and Cousin Connie, enjoyed being pampered with pedicures! (Shar, Nikki, G'ma and I also enjoyed pedi's & mani's at a different location since there were too many of us for one place!)
Rehearsal began at 4PM and went very smoothly...other than we had to scramble to get a substitute church wedding coordinator since our original (Stacey King) ended up in the ER after falling down a flight of stairs. She had bumps and bruises and a severly sprained ankle; praise God nothing worse. Thanks Celesta for stepping in and doing such a great job!
Then, on to the rehearsal dinner at Joe T Garcia's! Rehearsal dinner's are always my favorite part of the wedding festivities...a time of intimate sharing with family and friends. It was a very emotional time but oh, so sweet!!! La Puertita, the small chapel-looking building where the gathering took place, was perfect! Marcie, Don and many family members did a great job of decorating with our very fun "TEX-MEX" theme. And, of course, the food was great.
And, we were able to pull off the surprise; Jeremy came waltzing in to the rehearsal dinner and when Ryan saw him the tears started flowing all around! It was great...thanks, Jer for putting forth the effort to share in this very special time! And Julie, for your willingness to share him with us even though you and the boys had to stay in Greece! Love you guys so much!!!
Ron held up well throughout the evening but was wiped out when we finally headed home! He really had me worried; by the time I got him in the truck for the ride home, he was physically trembling from exhaustion.
More to come soon!
Christie
Thursday, November 6, 2008
And the relatives came....
Wow! We are so blessed to have such a great family. I am amazed at how many have made the sacrifice to come to the wedding.
Ryan's:
- Bill, Lori, and Eric Bixler (Ron's cousins) - New Jersey & Kim (Bill & Lori's daughter) - Michigan
- Joan Jaggard (Ron's cousin) - New Jersey
- Jeremy (cousin) - Athens, Greece!
- Davis & Ashley (cousins) - New Mexico
- Tami, Ron, Morgan and Austin (aunt, uncle & cousins) - Georgia
- Groomsmen & Usher: Joe & Chris - Oklahoma; Jake - Kansas
Stacee's:
- Mom & Jack - Florida
- Grandpa & Uncle Frank - Florida
- Uncle Vincent - New York
- Cousin Connie - Alabama
- Aunt Lourdes and family - California
- Bridesmaid's: Kristen, Stephanie, Geraldine, Angela - Florida
As well as many other family members from all over Texas! It is especially meaningful to have Jeremy here from Greece. Jeremy and Ryan have a very special relationship; he has been such a great spiritual mentor and friend throughout Ryan's life and Ryan does not know he will be here; so, mum's the word! We will greatly miss having Julie and the boys but appreciate the fact Jeremy could represent them!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Same time last year...
What were YOU doing one year ago today? Most of you were faithfully, fervently praying that God would show us favor and graciously spare my sweet husband's life. In the midst of our darkest hour, when doctor's had given us no hope; praise God He heard and answered! It's been a long, hard year but God has been, and continues to be, faithful to hold us close and fill us with His strength, comfort, joy and so much more.
Thank you, dear ones; we love and appreciate you and could not have come this far without you! I'll try to get out an update and some reflections soon...although it probably won't be until next week, after the wedding!
Much love,
Christie
Thank you, dear ones; we love and appreciate you and could not have come this far without you! I'll try to get out an update and some reflections soon...although it probably won't be until next week, after the wedding!
Much love,
Christie
Sunday, November 2, 2008
JOY amidst circumstances
Busy week around here; getting caught up on work, wedding and all the other stuff that continues to go on despite our little "Presby vacation". Seems like so much to do, yet so little time!
And I must confess, Wednesday was an especially rough one. We've been exceptionally weary of this seemingly endless battle, Ron in particular. I can't imagine how hard it is on him, wanting so desperately to be fully recovered and feeling like it will never happen. But, GOD IS FAITHFUL! One of the devotionals I use each day is Proverbs 31 Devotionals (an online subscription) and I believe Wednesday's devotion was written especially for us! (red & white highlights mine)
Keeping Our Joy
Micca Campbell
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 (NIV)
Devotion:
“Please pray for my fifteen-year-old daughter. She’s pregnant.”
This godly woman has loved and served God in her home, church, and community for years. Now, she does nothing. Ashamed, she blames herself for her child’s choices, and because of them, considers herself unworthy to serve. Not only has this woman allowed her situation to steal her peace and joy, but her service too.
Many Christians fall into this same trap. They allow the enemy to rob them of their peace, steal their joy, and kill their witness over situations beyond their control.
It’s true. Satan has always been a tempter, but where he catches us off guard is by thinking he tempts us to do bad things. Our flesh mostly takes care of that job. The fact is Satan tempts us in order to lose what God has given us.
If Satan can rob our joy and steal our witness, then he makes us useless in the kingdom of God . Just like this mother, we become unproductive when our faith is stripped by unexpected heartbreak. Nevertheless, you and I must not let Satan use our circumstances to steal our joy.
That sounds good, but how do we find true joy in the midst of heartache? We find it by depending on the Lord. David reminds us, “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” (Ps 28:7).
First, David believed God heard his cries. Second, he relied on God’s provision and strength. Third, David trusted in God’s help with all of his heart. This kept him from growing weak, losing heart, and giving up. Finally, because David believed God was for him, in him, with him, and behind him one hundred percent, David was able to give thanks with a joyful heart.
Like David and this mother I spoke with, we will experience situations that can steal our joy and leave us feeling unworthy to serve. To think this way is to see ourselves outside of God’s grace. You and I don’t serve God because we are good enough. We serve God because He’s good enough. It’s His perfection working through our imperfections.
By the same token, our joy is not defined by our circumstances. It’s based on our relationship with God who, in due time, will bring us out of our present situation.
Exercising faith in God - not circumstances - aids the discouraged heart so that Satan cannot steal our joy or our purpose.
Dear Lord, Today I refuse to let Satan steal my joy. I long for the fullness of life that You have given me. As I trust You in my present situation, I also trust You to restore my peace and joy. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?
Hidden Joy in a Dark Corner by Wendy Blight, pre-order yours today!
Hope in the Midst of Depression by Mary Southerland
Visit Micca Campbell’s blog
Application Steps:
Using David as an example, follow his steps found in Psalm 28:7 …
1. Cry out to God.
2. Rely on His provision and strength.
3. Believe in and wait on His help.
4. Praise Him with a joyful heart.
Reflections:
Has Satan stolen your joy?
How has this affected your witness; your life; and your service to the kingdom?
Power Verses:
Nehemiah 8:10b, “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength" (NIV)
I cannot begin to tell you how this devotional ministered to us. What a great reminder of how we must always be on guard against the enemy, but more importantly of the hope we have in Christ even in the midst of our circumstances!
Much love,
Christie
And I must confess, Wednesday was an especially rough one. We've been exceptionally weary of this seemingly endless battle, Ron in particular. I can't imagine how hard it is on him, wanting so desperately to be fully recovered and feeling like it will never happen. But, GOD IS FAITHFUL! One of the devotionals I use each day is Proverbs 31 Devotionals (an online subscription) and I believe Wednesday's devotion was written especially for us! (red & white highlights mine)
Keeping Our Joy
Micca Campbell
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 (NIV)
Devotion:
“Please pray for my fifteen-year-old daughter. She’s pregnant.”
This godly woman has loved and served God in her home, church, and community for years. Now, she does nothing. Ashamed, she blames herself for her child’s choices, and because of them, considers herself unworthy to serve. Not only has this woman allowed her situation to steal her peace and joy, but her service too.
Many Christians fall into this same trap. They allow the enemy to rob them of their peace, steal their joy, and kill their witness over situations beyond their control.
It’s true. Satan has always been a tempter, but where he catches us off guard is by thinking he tempts us to do bad things. Our flesh mostly takes care of that job. The fact is Satan tempts us in order to lose what God has given us.
If Satan can rob our joy and steal our witness, then he makes us useless in the kingdom of God . Just like this mother, we become unproductive when our faith is stripped by unexpected heartbreak. Nevertheless, you and I must not let Satan use our circumstances to steal our joy.
That sounds good, but how do we find true joy in the midst of heartache? We find it by depending on the Lord. David reminds us, “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” (Ps 28:7).
First, David believed God heard his cries. Second, he relied on God’s provision and strength. Third, David trusted in God’s help with all of his heart. This kept him from growing weak, losing heart, and giving up. Finally, because David believed God was for him, in him, with him, and behind him one hundred percent, David was able to give thanks with a joyful heart.
Like David and this mother I spoke with, we will experience situations that can steal our joy and leave us feeling unworthy to serve. To think this way is to see ourselves outside of God’s grace. You and I don’t serve God because we are good enough. We serve God because He’s good enough. It’s His perfection working through our imperfections.
By the same token, our joy is not defined by our circumstances. It’s based on our relationship with God who, in due time, will bring us out of our present situation.
Exercising faith in God - not circumstances - aids the discouraged heart so that Satan cannot steal our joy or our purpose.
Dear Lord, Today I refuse to let Satan steal my joy. I long for the fullness of life that You have given me. As I trust You in my present situation, I also trust You to restore my peace and joy. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?
Hidden Joy in a Dark Corner by Wendy Blight, pre-order yours today!
Hope in the Midst of Depression by Mary Southerland
Visit Micca Campbell’s blog
Application Steps:
Using David as an example, follow his steps found in Psalm 28:7 …
1. Cry out to God.
2. Rely on His provision and strength.
3. Believe in and wait on His help.
4. Praise Him with a joyful heart.
Reflections:
Has Satan stolen your joy?
How has this affected your witness; your life; and your service to the kingdom?
Power Verses:
Nehemiah 8:10b, “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength" (NIV)
I cannot begin to tell you how this devotional ministered to us. What a great reminder of how we must always be on guard against the enemy, but more importantly of the hope we have in Christ even in the midst of our circumstances!
Much love,
Christie
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Puzzle Pieces?
Dr. S was in this morning and decided, despite the vomiting, we can still go home! Thank you, Lord!! There's really not much more they would do for him at this point that we can't do at home. Dr. S said "you've used up all your tickets with me". And, "I know what it's like in there...and don't want to go in there again!" (at least any time in the forseeable future unless a DIRE emergency...his "innards" are extremely fragile!)
Ron has been backed off to liquids for a few more days and will begin a couple of new meds but I think the best medicine for him right now is to be home! This stay has really taken a toll on him (us!) mentally and emotionally.
We had a very long visit with Dr. Arslanlar this morning, have I ever said how sweet he is??
We discussed where we've been, where we are and where we are going....with patience the continued key. As always, timeframes aren't even discussed. Everyone had hoped by this time we would be much further down the road to recovery when in reality as we look back to where we were this time last year; it's a miracle we are even this far in the process! I have to keep reminding myself that the prediction was 18+ months of recovery and even then we had no idea as to what "normal" would look like.
*** Disclaimer: the following is an attempt on the behalf of my pea brain to break down the plethora of medical jargon into layman's terms so we can all make sense of it! No real medical personnel wrote this! ***
We think we may have added another piece or two to the puzzle. As we were talking about all that's going on Dr. A mentioned in passing that some of the issues Ron has would normally be seen in someone who has had lung surgery which was not the case with him. I reminded him that Ron HAD had lung surgery back in 1992....which took him very much by surprise. Evidently, he came on board far enough along in the process and at such a traumatic point that he had not been informed of Ron's long-term past medical history.
The type of surgery he had in 1992 (which was to adhere his left lung to his chest cavity after he had had a couple of episodes of lung collapse) also keeps the esophagus/stomach juncture from closing completely. As you breathe in and out there should be a separation between the lung and chest wall; his does not function this way because the "chemical wash" that they do to cause the lung to scar to chest wall can also cause the esophagus and stomach to adhere to the lung which causes everything to pull open as he breathes in and out; thus causing pretty major reflux. This is all hypothetical at this point but makes sense and could definitely account for some of the issues he's been dealing with.
And, when you are on powerful pain meds for any length of time it suppresses the stomach and intestines causing them to be sleepy and not function properly. Hopefully, as he comes off the lollipops they will begin to slowly "wake up" and things will improve (from what I've read it could take several weeks for effects of long term narcotic use to completely wear off!).
The Nexxium should cut down on acid production and the Reglan acts to stimulate the stomach and intestines to work. He will then be on a once daily med for bowel maintenance and another taken before each meal to reduce possible bloating.
We did receive some good news...what pancreas he does have remaining is functioning very well! His blood sugars are great and he requires no glucose checks or insulin! Thank you, Father!!!
Basically, the things that shouldn't be working...are working great; and the things that should be working...aren't! And as I've stated before, theoretically, he has short bowel (due to the large amount of intestine removed) so should deal with short bowel syndrome (which includes diarrhea, problems handling electrolyte balance, malnutrition, etc) but not Ron; he has short bowel without the syndrome! Crazy!
AND, his labs continue to look great; kidney function, liver function, white blood count, albumin....all great! Typical Ron! Or should I say A-typical Ron?!
Please pray these medicines will kick in and work well for him. He's had a tough time of it and I'm sure he's getting anxious about the wedding being only 10 days away and things still being out of sorts. Our goal is for him to not just survive the wedding and all the related activities; but for it to be a wonderful time of memory making for ALL of us. At this point, it doesn't matter if he's able to partake of the food as long as he's able to be there feeling good for the all the events!
We appreciate your continued prayer on our bahalf!
Love, Christie
"We wait for the Lord; He is our help and shield." Psalm 33:20
Ron has been backed off to liquids for a few more days and will begin a couple of new meds but I think the best medicine for him right now is to be home! This stay has really taken a toll on him (us!) mentally and emotionally.
We had a very long visit with Dr. Arslanlar this morning, have I ever said how sweet he is??
We discussed where we've been, where we are and where we are going....with patience the continued key. As always, timeframes aren't even discussed. Everyone had hoped by this time we would be much further down the road to recovery when in reality as we look back to where we were this time last year; it's a miracle we are even this far in the process! I have to keep reminding myself that the prediction was 18+ months of recovery and even then we had no idea as to what "normal" would look like.
*** Disclaimer: the following is an attempt on the behalf of my pea brain to break down the plethora of medical jargon into layman's terms so we can all make sense of it! No real medical personnel wrote this! ***
We think we may have added another piece or two to the puzzle. As we were talking about all that's going on Dr. A mentioned in passing that some of the issues Ron has would normally be seen in someone who has had lung surgery which was not the case with him. I reminded him that Ron HAD had lung surgery back in 1992....which took him very much by surprise. Evidently, he came on board far enough along in the process and at such a traumatic point that he had not been informed of Ron's long-term past medical history.
The type of surgery he had in 1992 (which was to adhere his left lung to his chest cavity after he had had a couple of episodes of lung collapse) also keeps the esophagus/stomach juncture from closing completely. As you breathe in and out there should be a separation between the lung and chest wall; his does not function this way because the "chemical wash" that they do to cause the lung to scar to chest wall can also cause the esophagus and stomach to adhere to the lung which causes everything to pull open as he breathes in and out; thus causing pretty major reflux. This is all hypothetical at this point but makes sense and could definitely account for some of the issues he's been dealing with.
And, when you are on powerful pain meds for any length of time it suppresses the stomach and intestines causing them to be sleepy and not function properly. Hopefully, as he comes off the lollipops they will begin to slowly "wake up" and things will improve (from what I've read it could take several weeks for effects of long term narcotic use to completely wear off!).
The Nexxium should cut down on acid production and the Reglan acts to stimulate the stomach and intestines to work. He will then be on a once daily med for bowel maintenance and another taken before each meal to reduce possible bloating.
We did receive some good news...what pancreas he does have remaining is functioning very well! His blood sugars are great and he requires no glucose checks or insulin! Thank you, Father!!!
Basically, the things that shouldn't be working...are working great; and the things that should be working...aren't! And as I've stated before, theoretically, he has short bowel (due to the large amount of intestine removed) so should deal with short bowel syndrome (which includes diarrhea, problems handling electrolyte balance, malnutrition, etc) but not Ron; he has short bowel without the syndrome! Crazy!
AND, his labs continue to look great; kidney function, liver function, white blood count, albumin....all great! Typical Ron! Or should I say A-typical Ron?!
Please pray these medicines will kick in and work well for him. He's had a tough time of it and I'm sure he's getting anxious about the wedding being only 10 days away and things still being out of sorts. Our goal is for him to not just survive the wedding and all the related activities; but for it to be a wonderful time of memory making for ALL of us. At this point, it doesn't matter if he's able to partake of the food as long as he's able to be there feeling good for the all the events!
We appreciate your continued prayer on our bahalf!
Love, Christie
"We wait for the Lord; He is our help and shield." Psalm 33:20
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Delayed update
I haven't updated beause there really hasn't been anything to report since both Dr. Shires & Arslanlar were not here over the weekend.
But it's Monday and everyone is back in full force. Ron was seen by Dr. Shires, Dr. Arslanlar and his Physician's Assistant, Janelle, along with many other doctor's and nurses who just dropped by to visit with us once they heard he was back.
No clear answer as to cause of problem that brought him in. But it does seem his small intestines are not functioning normally, especially for someone who has short bowel. To be graphic, people who have had such a large section of small intestine removed will struggle with chronic diarrhea and/or typically have 3-6 bowel movements a day. But...we don't do normal; normal is just a setting on the dryer, right? We do know his small intestine was "full" and seems to get that way often. Dr. Shires says it is very unusual for this to happen; typically back up will occur in colon; not small intestine; but then again, he doesn't do anything typical. The back up could be contributing to the severe reflux (what goes down must continue to go down...or come up, right?) Any who...
So now, they are tweaking his melds: reducing the steroid, continuing the Nexis and Regal an (both to deal with nausea, reflux, heartburn, vomiting) and beginning him on something that will basically flush him out (daily) without stimulating the bowels because if they use a stimulant and it puts pressure on the area that is tethered or if there were to be a kink, that could be really bad news! They have also been using IV morphine instead of lollipops for pain and we are going to switch to Tylenol with codeine when we get home; no more weaning process.
He started on clear liquids yesterday afternoon and progressed up to solid food this evening. They decided if he could handle food, he could go home Tuesday. Unfortunately, he didn't do too well this evening. His "solids" dinner caused alto of bloating and nausea and came back up around 11PM. He had also had some vomiting Sunday night but he felt it was brought on by a coughing episode; tonight's was unprovoked. We're anxious to hear what they have to say after tonight's little episode.
Please pray whatever is going on will be revealed. Everyone seems to be stumped as to why he continues to have this problem.
Will update you when I know more!
Love, Christie
Stand firmly in the place where the Lord has put you and do your best there. God sends us trials or tests, and places life before us...It is through the pounding of a serious conflict that He expects us to grow strong...character is grown through hardship.
from Streams in the Desert
But it's Monday and everyone is back in full force. Ron was seen by Dr. Shires, Dr. Arslanlar and his Physician's Assistant, Janelle, along with many other doctor's and nurses who just dropped by to visit with us once they heard he was back.
No clear answer as to cause of problem that brought him in. But it does seem his small intestines are not functioning normally, especially for someone who has short bowel. To be graphic, people who have had such a large section of small intestine removed will struggle with chronic diarrhea and/or typically have 3-6 bowel movements a day. But...we don't do normal; normal is just a setting on the dryer, right? We do know his small intestine was "full" and seems to get that way often. Dr. Shires says it is very unusual for this to happen; typically back up will occur in colon; not small intestine; but then again, he doesn't do anything typical. The back up could be contributing to the severe reflux (what goes down must continue to go down...or come up, right?) Any who...
So now, they are tweaking his melds: reducing the steroid, continuing the Nexis and Regal an (both to deal with nausea, reflux, heartburn, vomiting) and beginning him on something that will basically flush him out (daily) without stimulating the bowels because if they use a stimulant and it puts pressure on the area that is tethered or if there were to be a kink, that could be really bad news! They have also been using IV morphine instead of lollipops for pain and we are going to switch to Tylenol with codeine when we get home; no more weaning process.
He started on clear liquids yesterday afternoon and progressed up to solid food this evening. They decided if he could handle food, he could go home Tuesday. Unfortunately, he didn't do too well this evening. His "solids" dinner caused alto of bloating and nausea and came back up around 11PM. He had also had some vomiting Sunday night but he felt it was brought on by a coughing episode; tonight's was unprovoked. We're anxious to hear what they have to say after tonight's little episode.
Please pray whatever is going on will be revealed. Everyone seems to be stumped as to why he continues to have this problem.
Will update you when I know more!
Love, Christie
Stand firmly in the place where the Lord has put you and do your best there. God sends us trials or tests, and places life before us...It is through the pounding of a serious conflict that He expects us to grow strong...character is grown through hardship.
from Streams in the Desert
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Ahhhh...our home away from home!
When Ron was admitted EARLY Friday morning, there were no rooms on the 6th floor so he had to be put on the 8th. It was so nice to be moved to 6 West today, surrounded by people we know and love, although being back on 6 is so familiar it kind of makes it feel like we never left! Staff has changed quite a bit in the almost 3 months since we were last inpatient. Sadly, several of our sweet friends are no longer here and it's just not the same without them!
Ron slept off and on most of Friday; thankfully both Dr. S and Dr. A were in fairly early so I headed to work after meeting with them and then home to take care of some things and stock up on supplies needed for our stay at Presby.
Ron's doing ok; very frustrated about being here. His pain is greatly decreased but he is still restricted to nothing by mouth. They started him back on TPN last night. Plan is to continue to watch him for several days and see if things clear up on their own; then slowly start back on clear liquids and progress from there.
Any number of things could be the cause--possible virus, barium from last upper GI study(sometimes system will react to barium and it will become "like concrete"!), the fact that there is no fiber in his diet, which is a double-edged sword--too much fiber could cause any weakness in intestines to cause a fistula, not enough causes things to get backed up---so basically, he's full of it! haha Dr. S says it's hard to pinpoint since his anatomy is "grossly abnormal".
Neither Dr. S nor Dr. A are on call this weekend; although Dr. A said to not hesitate to call him if I had any questions or concerns. He is so sweet; he told us he had slept with his phone on his pillow Thursday night so he'd be sure to hear it if I called or texted him once we got to Presby. What a blessing!
I'm very tired and my mind is mush so I'll close for now!
Ron slept off and on most of Friday; thankfully both Dr. S and Dr. A were in fairly early so I headed to work after meeting with them and then home to take care of some things and stock up on supplies needed for our stay at Presby.
Ron's doing ok; very frustrated about being here. His pain is greatly decreased but he is still restricted to nothing by mouth. They started him back on TPN last night. Plan is to continue to watch him for several days and see if things clear up on their own; then slowly start back on clear liquids and progress from there.
Any number of things could be the cause--possible virus, barium from last upper GI study(sometimes system will react to barium and it will become "like concrete"!), the fact that there is no fiber in his diet, which is a double-edged sword--too much fiber could cause any weakness in intestines to cause a fistula, not enough causes things to get backed up---so basically, he's full of it! haha Dr. S says it's hard to pinpoint since his anatomy is "grossly abnormal".
Neither Dr. S nor Dr. A are on call this weekend; although Dr. A said to not hesitate to call him if I had any questions or concerns. He is so sweet; he told us he had slept with his phone on his pillow Thursday night so he'd be sure to hear it if I called or texted him once we got to Presby. What a blessing!
I'm very tired and my mind is mush so I'll close for now!
Friday, October 24, 2008
Houston, we have a problem...
Oh the joys of spending the night in Presby's ER!
Ron started complaining of a "different" pain in his belly and back Thursday night, enough that doses of both Tylenol with Codeine and a lollipop did not diminish the level. We contacted Dr. A and decision was made to bring him in to Presby. Dr. A called to give them a head's up and to tell them what tests he wanted done. We arrived a little before midnight and they got him right in. Then began the process of blood work, EKG, xray, drinking the lovely contrast and then waiting an hour to do a CT. Looks like he has at least a partial bowel obstruction....BOOOOO!!!! But, at least we know the source of the problem.
Treament is to put him back on total bowel rest...nothing to eat or drink.....and we watch and wait and hope it resolves itself on it's own. If not....well, we don't want to go there, so please pray this will resolve on it's own, quickly! Ryan & Stacee's wedding is in 2 weeks and 1 day!
They are admitting him now and he'll be here for a few days or so.
Thanks, faithful ones!
Christie
"The Lord is with me, I will not be afraid." Psalm 118:6
Ron started complaining of a "different" pain in his belly and back Thursday night, enough that doses of both Tylenol with Codeine and a lollipop did not diminish the level. We contacted Dr. A and decision was made to bring him in to Presby. Dr. A called to give them a head's up and to tell them what tests he wanted done. We arrived a little before midnight and they got him right in. Then began the process of blood work, EKG, xray, drinking the lovely contrast and then waiting an hour to do a CT. Looks like he has at least a partial bowel obstruction....BOOOOO!!!! But, at least we know the source of the problem.
Treament is to put him back on total bowel rest...nothing to eat or drink.....and we watch and wait and hope it resolves itself on it's own. If not....well, we don't want to go there, so please pray this will resolve on it's own, quickly! Ryan & Stacee's wedding is in 2 weeks and 1 day!
They are admitting him now and he'll be here for a few days or so.
Thanks, faithful ones!
Christie
"The Lord is with me, I will not be afraid." Psalm 118:6
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Survey Says.....
GOD IS SO GOOD! First off, we sailed through rush hour traffic with minimal snags and it took us right at the same time it typically takes to get to Presby. Then, as we went through admissions, they did not ask for any payment! Yahoo!!!
Last night we asked our friends and family to join us in praying for definitive answers and it is so nice to finally know something! . Praise God we received an email with some preliminary results from Dr. A this evening which says:
"Good news from the upper GI. I have not seen the images yet because I was out of the office but the report is heartening for some explanation.
The small intestine and colon are unchanged. No narrowing or blockages. No changes in previously noted "hanging of the small intestine." There is SIGNIFICANT reflux to the level of the clavicles...YIKES! That's a lot. The end of the esophagus has changes consistent with esophagitis. The stomach and duodenum emptied normally without ulcers or dilation.
All good news and explains a great deal. That is a lot of reflux and does explain the fairly spontaneous vomiting - it's reflux and regurgitation. Routine measures to decrease reflux include the usual - multiple small meals, liquids with meals, low fat-low cholesterol, avoid spicy foods, caffeine and chocolate(I can't even imagine these last three). The Nexxium twice daily will decrease acid production and help heal esophagitis - this in turn will let the esophagus work better. The metoclopramide will help empty the stomach to allow less reflux.
I hope this is helpful. I feel better. I have to admit that this is a more normal problem to deal with in view of the last year. Reflux I can fix or at least improve. I plan to look at the images tomorrow and see if I see anything else and will let you know."
Ok, so...let's see if I can explain what he wrote in layman's terms:
Results show intestinal "tethering" which we already knew; no new kinks, narrowing or blockages.
Great deal of reflux backing up in esophagus, not just a little but up to level of his collarbone! His lower esophageal sphincter is not functioning properly (the flap that opens to allow food from esophagus to stomach and should then close and keep bile and food from backing up into esophagus). I'm guessing the esophagus musculature is weakend because of lack of use over the last year.
Esophagitis is basically irritation/inflammation of the esophagus.
Now, where do we go from here? Sounds like we already have the appropriate meds; and outline for new dietary changes including eating even smaller amounts more frequently and:
No acidic, greasy or spicy foods
No caffeine
No chocolate
foods that are low fat and low cholesterol
And we assume he has to continue with old rules as well:
no seeds or skins
no fiber
soft-cooked veggies & fruits
stick with "junk" type cereals
avoid cheese
no roughage
And the big question: what CAN he eat? I'm running out of ideas! But will get busy researching what will fit within these guidelines. And I hope Dr. A will give me some suggestions.
Ron's really been wanting a salad, in fact he told me to ask specifically about lettuce! But since Dr. A said no roughage, so far I've not given in! I've asked and we'll see what he says.
By the way....did I tell you our rehearsal dinner is at Joe T. Garcia's??? (our favorite Mexican restaurant) Poor guy; think we can have this stuff whipped in 3 weeks? haha
Thanks for praying! God has faithfully heard and responded!
Love, Christie
"Do not fear anything except the Lord Almighty. He alone is the Holy One. If you fear Him, you need fear nothing else. He will keep you safe" Isaiah 8:13
"I will write down all these things as a testimony of what the Lord will do. I will entrust it to my disciples, who will pass it down to future generations. I will wait for the Lord to help us." Isaiah 8:16-17a
"Difficulty is actually the atmosphere surrounding a miracle, or a miracle in its initial stage. Yet if it is to be a great miracle, the surrounding condition will be not simply a difficulty but an utter impossibility. And it is the clinging hand of His child that makes a desperate situation a delight to God." Streams in the Desert
Last night we asked our friends and family to join us in praying for definitive answers and it is so nice to finally know something! . Praise God we received an email with some preliminary results from Dr. A this evening which says:
"Good news from the upper GI. I have not seen the images yet because I was out of the office but the report is heartening for some explanation.
The small intestine and colon are unchanged. No narrowing or blockages. No changes in previously noted "hanging of the small intestine." There is SIGNIFICANT reflux to the level of the clavicles...YIKES! That's a lot. The end of the esophagus has changes consistent with esophagitis. The stomach and duodenum emptied normally without ulcers or dilation.
All good news and explains a great deal. That is a lot of reflux and does explain the fairly spontaneous vomiting - it's reflux and regurgitation. Routine measures to decrease reflux include the usual - multiple small meals, liquids with meals, low fat-low cholesterol, avoid spicy foods, caffeine and chocolate(I can't even imagine these last three). The Nexxium twice daily will decrease acid production and help heal esophagitis - this in turn will let the esophagus work better. The metoclopramide will help empty the stomach to allow less reflux.
I hope this is helpful. I feel better. I have to admit that this is a more normal problem to deal with in view of the last year. Reflux I can fix or at least improve. I plan to look at the images tomorrow and see if I see anything else and will let you know."
Ok, so...let's see if I can explain what he wrote in layman's terms:
Results show intestinal "tethering" which we already knew; no new kinks, narrowing or blockages.
Great deal of reflux backing up in esophagus, not just a little but up to level of his collarbone! His lower esophageal sphincter is not functioning properly (the flap that opens to allow food from esophagus to stomach and should then close and keep bile and food from backing up into esophagus). I'm guessing the esophagus musculature is weakend because of lack of use over the last year.
Esophagitis is basically irritation/inflammation of the esophagus.
Now, where do we go from here? Sounds like we already have the appropriate meds; and outline for new dietary changes including eating even smaller amounts more frequently and:
No acidic, greasy or spicy foods
No caffeine
No chocolate
foods that are low fat and low cholesterol
And we assume he has to continue with old rules as well:
no seeds or skins
no fiber
soft-cooked veggies & fruits
stick with "junk" type cereals
avoid cheese
no roughage
And the big question: what CAN he eat? I'm running out of ideas! But will get busy researching what will fit within these guidelines. And I hope Dr. A will give me some suggestions.
Ron's really been wanting a salad, in fact he told me to ask specifically about lettuce! But since Dr. A said no roughage, so far I've not given in! I've asked and we'll see what he says.
By the way....did I tell you our rehearsal dinner is at Joe T. Garcia's??? (our favorite Mexican restaurant) Poor guy; think we can have this stuff whipped in 3 weeks? haha
Thanks for praying! God has faithfully heard and responded!
Love, Christie
"Do not fear anything except the Lord Almighty. He alone is the Holy One. If you fear Him, you need fear nothing else. He will keep you safe" Isaiah 8:13
"I will write down all these things as a testimony of what the Lord will do. I will entrust it to my disciples, who will pass it down to future generations. I will wait for the Lord to help us." Isaiah 8:16-17a
"Difficulty is actually the atmosphere surrounding a miracle, or a miracle in its initial stage. Yet if it is to be a great miracle, the surrounding condition will be not simply a difficulty but an utter impossibility. And it is the clinging hand of His child that makes a desperate situation a delight to God." Streams in the Desert
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Upper GI
Tomorrow morning (Wednesday, October 15) Ron will have another upper GI with small bowel follow through. He will have to drink barium and have "pictures" (xrays) taken every 20 minutes to see how things are flowing through his system. We have to be at Presbyterian at 8:30 AM--UGH!!! Gonna be an early morning in the Nordell household. This is not typically done at Presbyterian on an outpatient basis (they usually have us go to someplace like HealthSouth) but Dr. A requested it since the radiologists there know his anatomy so well they'll be able to see even minuscule changes. It will be good to be able to see his anatomy without any extra tubes in him, the g-tube could have possibly been hiding something. They are looking for any place there might be a kink or narrowing or any abnormality.
Please pray we will get definitive results. Ron is beyond frustrated with the daily vomiting (or sometimes twice daily, like today) ; especially when it comes on so suddenly like it did early this morning waking him out of a sound sleep.
Also pray we will find favor with the billing department at Presbyterian. We had to fill out multiple forms and submit a mountain of paperwork in order to be considered a "charity case". Not sure yet when we'll hear anything and don't know if it will only cover hospital stays and other charges incurred before while hospitalized or if it will also cover expenses incurred each time we have to go there for a procedure. This will be the first time he's had any kind of procedure since our new insurance year began and I'm sure they'll require some kind of payment when we go to admissions. I'm a little anxious about all of this; but I know God will be faithful to provide, just as He has throughout this last year.
Yes, it's been a whole year! Ron was first admitted through ER to HEB October 8th, 2007; and he had his "simple, routine" gall bladder surgery October 10. He came home October 15 and then we were back at the ER on October 18th with complications...ERCP was performed October 20th and things went south from there!
But we have so many things to rejoice over, including:
.... this weeks blood work looks amazingly good! His white blood cell count is the lowest it's ever been at 8,500; and all the other numbers they look at including those for signs of dehydration and/or malnutrition look good as well (albumin, potassium, creatnine, hemoglobin, etc). Dr. A is baffled--numbers indicate he's doing well (except for the vomiting issue).
.... we have all of you faithful prayer warriors and encouragers
Thanks for listening and caring!
Christie
Today's devotion from Proverbs 31 devotions (online) is so appropriate for our situation. Thanks, Laurie, for sharing this with us!
"Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up."Luke 18:1 (NIV)Devotion:My oldest son Josh played offensive line on his football team when he was younger. Solid and strong, Josh's job on the line was to hold the opponents' defensive line back long enough for the quarterback to do his job. The offensive line isn't the most glamorous job on the field, but when they don't do their job well, everyone is quick to see the results. Normally, these steadfast players hold firm, protecting their guy.Sitting at the practices night after night, I noticed a common issue among the novice players on the field. They often stopped blocking too soon. Shouts of, "Block 'til the whistle blows!" filled the sweaty September nights, and time and again the tired players lined back up and tried again.The boys knew what they were supposed to do, but they often gave up when they thought the play was over. Sometimes they gave up because holding back a powerful defensive player was tiring. Unfortunately, the play wasn't over until the coach or referee blew the whistle. Until that whistle blew, anything could happen.The parallel to our prayer lives is astounding. Too often, I have given up praying about a concern, believing the play to be over. Perhaps I think God answered "no" when I don't see an answer in my timeline. Sometimes I see things with human eyes, and give up too soon. I wonder how many times we've stopped praying just shy of experiencing healing, freedom from addiction, or the salvation of someone we love. I'm thankful my family and I never stopped praying about my dad's salvation. He came to Christ two weeks before he died.Just as my son learned to block until the whistle blows, may we be encouraged to pray until the trumpet blows, revealing that Jesus has returned to earth. In other words - never give up!Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your power and majesty. There is nothing in the universe that is too big for You to handle. Help me to remember that You want to hear my prayers, and You delight in answering them when it brings glory to Your name. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Please pray we will get definitive results. Ron is beyond frustrated with the daily vomiting (or sometimes twice daily, like today) ; especially when it comes on so suddenly like it did early this morning waking him out of a sound sleep.
Also pray we will find favor with the billing department at Presbyterian. We had to fill out multiple forms and submit a mountain of paperwork in order to be considered a "charity case". Not sure yet when we'll hear anything and don't know if it will only cover hospital stays and other charges incurred before while hospitalized or if it will also cover expenses incurred each time we have to go there for a procedure. This will be the first time he's had any kind of procedure since our new insurance year began and I'm sure they'll require some kind of payment when we go to admissions. I'm a little anxious about all of this; but I know God will be faithful to provide, just as He has throughout this last year.
Yes, it's been a whole year! Ron was first admitted through ER to HEB October 8th, 2007; and he had his "simple, routine" gall bladder surgery October 10. He came home October 15 and then we were back at the ER on October 18th with complications...ERCP was performed October 20th and things went south from there!
But we have so many things to rejoice over, including:
.... this weeks blood work looks amazingly good! His white blood cell count is the lowest it's ever been at 8,500; and all the other numbers they look at including those for signs of dehydration and/or malnutrition look good as well (albumin, potassium, creatnine, hemoglobin, etc). Dr. A is baffled--numbers indicate he's doing well (except for the vomiting issue).
.... we have all of you faithful prayer warriors and encouragers
Thanks for listening and caring!
Christie
Today's devotion from Proverbs 31 devotions (online) is so appropriate for our situation. Thanks, Laurie, for sharing this with us!
"Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up."Luke 18:1 (NIV)Devotion:My oldest son Josh played offensive line on his football team when he was younger. Solid and strong, Josh's job on the line was to hold the opponents' defensive line back long enough for the quarterback to do his job. The offensive line isn't the most glamorous job on the field, but when they don't do their job well, everyone is quick to see the results. Normally, these steadfast players hold firm, protecting their guy.Sitting at the practices night after night, I noticed a common issue among the novice players on the field. They often stopped blocking too soon. Shouts of, "Block 'til the whistle blows!" filled the sweaty September nights, and time and again the tired players lined back up and tried again.The boys knew what they were supposed to do, but they often gave up when they thought the play was over. Sometimes they gave up because holding back a powerful defensive player was tiring. Unfortunately, the play wasn't over until the coach or referee blew the whistle. Until that whistle blew, anything could happen.The parallel to our prayer lives is astounding. Too often, I have given up praying about a concern, believing the play to be over. Perhaps I think God answered "no" when I don't see an answer in my timeline. Sometimes I see things with human eyes, and give up too soon. I wonder how many times we've stopped praying just shy of experiencing healing, freedom from addiction, or the salvation of someone we love. I'm thankful my family and I never stopped praying about my dad's salvation. He came to Christ two weeks before he died.Just as my son learned to block until the whistle blows, may we be encouraged to pray until the trumpet blows, revealing that Jesus has returned to earth. In other words - never give up!Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your power and majesty. There is nothing in the universe that is too big for You to handle. Help me to remember that You want to hear my prayers, and You delight in answering them when it brings glory to Your name. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Here we Go!
Welcome to Nordell Notes! We've had a website since November 2007 but after encountering several problems decided to take the blogging plunge and are in the process of transferring all our previous updates over from our website!
Thanks for joining us on this rollercoaster we call life!
Thanks for joining us on this rollercoaster we call life!
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Steppin' out....
Anyone at church today notice we were missing something??? We've been stepping out without "the baby"!!!
As of Friday, October 9 Ron is officially on a TPN "vacation". Yes, this means he is NOT getting ANY IV nutrition! Dr. Arslanlar decided it had to be tried sometime therefore he is now receiving all his fluids and nutrition orally. WOOOO HOOOOO!!!
It's exciting and scary at the same time. It's hard to believe Ron's been on TPN since October 29, 2007!!!! We continue to battle getting food down him and keep it down. He had done better, for about 10 days he was only vomiting every other day but now he's back to vomiting every day...no rhyme or reason for it which no one can understand since all his tests look fine. Frustrating!
We are now back on "high alert" around here! We have to watch for signs of dehydration and malnutrition by monitoring all input and output, as well as blood pressure, heartrate and temperature multiple times a day and watching for dizziness, shakiness, hot flashes/cold sweats, increased thirst and/or lack of energy (that's the hardest to determine since he feels lethargic most of the time).
The freedom for Ron has been great! Being able to do whatever he wants without a "leash" tethering him has been liberating. And the greatest thing, he can take a shower WHENEVER HE WANTS! That hasn't happened in over a year! It always had to be scheduled around TPN. And, he can change his shirt WHENEVER HE WANTS! Having the TPN hooked up to his PICC line kept him from being able to change his shirt without disconnecting the TPN and flushing the lines before reconnecting; all things he had to have assitance with. Now, more independence!! The PICC line will stay in for a while, and we still have to flush it daily but we'll take it!
PLEASE pray this TPN "vacation" will go well and we will have no emergency trips to Presby. And that things will resolve regarding the vomiting. It is imperative that he be able to get the nutritional value, calories, vitamins, fluids, etc from the foods he eats; and when you're throwing up as often as he is; you really aren't getting any of these.
Also pray, as we look towards Ryan & Stacee's wedding in less than a month. It will be a long, physically demanding, (as well as emotional) weekend for him. He really needs to have more energy and stamina.
On a positive note, after a week on the diuretic, the swelling is much improved. We discontinued the diuretic once he stopped the TPN, though--don't need his body flushing all the fluids he so desperately needs right now. Please pray against return of swelling.
It's late, so I'll close with this from "Daily Inspirations from Women":
"Let's keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. He always keeps His word."
Hebrews 10:23 The Message
As we face the challenges that are part of life here on earth, we must not become discouraged. We must, instead, arm ourselves with the promises of God.
"The meaning of hope isn't just some flimsy wishing. It's a firm confidence in God's promises--that He will ultimately set things right." Sheila Walsh
As of Friday, October 9 Ron is officially on a TPN "vacation". Yes, this means he is NOT getting ANY IV nutrition! Dr. Arslanlar decided it had to be tried sometime therefore he is now receiving all his fluids and nutrition orally. WOOOO HOOOOO!!!
It's exciting and scary at the same time. It's hard to believe Ron's been on TPN since October 29, 2007!!!! We continue to battle getting food down him and keep it down. He had done better, for about 10 days he was only vomiting every other day but now he's back to vomiting every day...no rhyme or reason for it which no one can understand since all his tests look fine. Frustrating!
We are now back on "high alert" around here! We have to watch for signs of dehydration and malnutrition by monitoring all input and output, as well as blood pressure, heartrate and temperature multiple times a day and watching for dizziness, shakiness, hot flashes/cold sweats, increased thirst and/or lack of energy (that's the hardest to determine since he feels lethargic most of the time).
The freedom for Ron has been great! Being able to do whatever he wants without a "leash" tethering him has been liberating. And the greatest thing, he can take a shower WHENEVER HE WANTS! That hasn't happened in over a year! It always had to be scheduled around TPN. And, he can change his shirt WHENEVER HE WANTS! Having the TPN hooked up to his PICC line kept him from being able to change his shirt without disconnecting the TPN and flushing the lines before reconnecting; all things he had to have assitance with. Now, more independence!! The PICC line will stay in for a while, and we still have to flush it daily but we'll take it!
PLEASE pray this TPN "vacation" will go well and we will have no emergency trips to Presby. And that things will resolve regarding the vomiting. It is imperative that he be able to get the nutritional value, calories, vitamins, fluids, etc from the foods he eats; and when you're throwing up as often as he is; you really aren't getting any of these.
Also pray, as we look towards Ryan & Stacee's wedding in less than a month. It will be a long, physically demanding, (as well as emotional) weekend for him. He really needs to have more energy and stamina.
On a positive note, after a week on the diuretic, the swelling is much improved. We discontinued the diuretic once he stopped the TPN, though--don't need his body flushing all the fluids he so desperately needs right now. Please pray against return of swelling.
It's late, so I'll close with this from "Daily Inspirations from Women":
"Let's keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. He always keeps His word."
Hebrews 10:23 The Message
As we face the challenges that are part of life here on earth, we must not become discouraged. We must, instead, arm ourselves with the promises of God.
"The meaning of hope isn't just some flimsy wishing. It's a firm confidence in God's promises--that He will ultimately set things right." Sheila Walsh
Saturday, October 4, 2008
G-tube-less!
I know, I know...it's been too long since I sent out an update! Working really puts a cramp in my ability to keep everyone updated! I don't know where the days go but it seems I'm never for want of something to do! But on to what you all want...an update on Ron!
The last couple of weeks have been up and down. Thursday, September 25, he had his g-tube removed! YIPPEE!!! He has had either a naso-gastric tube (down nose to stomach) or gastric tube (directly into stomach through skin) since October 26, 2007. WOW! 11 months. Last line he has in is his PICC line but I'm sure that will stay awhile since that's how he gets his TPN and they do blood draw through it.
He has had vomiting daily (sometimes twice a day). The vomiting causes him to feel really puny and when you feel you are always on the verge of puking; you have no desire to eat. So it's been a battle to get him to eat and a battle to keep it down! Otherwise, numbers have looked good; now if he could just gain some strength, energy, stamina....
Sunday, Sept 28 we celebrated my birthday by finally being able to go to church! What a glorious day, to be back amongst our church family and to have Ryan, Stacee, Aaron & Kristin with us! One week shy of a year since we were last there (last Sunday to attend was October 7, 2007...and Ron refereed Pigskin Classic that afternoon for our youth). Afterwards, we went home to rest for a couple of hours then met Laurie & Tony who had picked up G'ma from her rehab facility and Papa from assisted living facility for a late lunch at our favorite Italian restaurant, LaBistro. It was very nice to be there after the Sunday rush...we enjoyed a quiet, relaxing meal together. We then headed over to Papa's to relax and watch the football game, have Sprinkles cupcakes & presents and give G'ma her first tour of where her new home will be. It was an exhausting but very fun day! It really took a toll on Ron and it took him until Wednesday to recover.
Our insurance plan year with my school district runs from October 1 to September 30 so we started over with all new deductibles and out of pocket expenses as of Wednesday. YIKES!!!
I headed to Dallas Monday afternoon to stock up on another month's worth of prescriptions before d-day; some of our scripts can only be filled at a specific pharmacy over by Presby. It was a frustrating afternoon; one where I had to keep reminding myself that my circumstances do not determine my joy. I ran into a glitch and had to argue with the insurance company over paying $1900 for his lollipops; ended up coming home empty-handed and spent the next couple of days going through all of our hidden stash--I typically keep a couple in my purse, a couple in the truck, and a couple in "the baby" backpack and fortunately I had some stashed away in another "hospital bag". God bless Dr. Arslanlar and his compassion and willingness to step in and help whenever and however needed; and for listening to this stressed out woman calling on his cell phone (yes, he has given me his cell phone number to use whenever I feel necessary!) 4 minutes after hours...that's when I received word insurance wouldn't pay! But, with his help and of course the fact God goes before us and prepares the way; it was handled and they mailed them to us the next day at the covered price of $10. WHEW!!!!
For my actual birthday (Wed, Oct 1), Ron stepped up to the plate and kept up his tradition of making my favorite carrot cake (from scratch!). Bless his heart, it took him ALL day and he had to do it in stages with napping in between. I was also treated to lunch and gifts by my sweet co-workers. Our friends Ken & Barbie came over to visit in the evening, then Ryan & Stacee brought in dinner; we opened more presents and had the most delicious cake ever. I received the Wii Fit so we had to try that out, as well. I had several calls from the Presby nurses singing and wishing me happy birthday and my good friend, Cindy, came by on her way home from work bearing a card from the nurses on 6West and 3ICU as well as a sweet note from Dr. Shires to Ron. And of course many calls and well wishes from extended family. I AM SO BLESSED!
But the best present of all was that Ron had NO vomiting....first in at least 10 days or more! He then spent Thursday and Friday recuperating from all the festivities.
Nordell life in a nutshell....along with staying busy, busy, busy with wedding plans....5 weeks from the big day!!!
Thanks for your continued prayers and encouragement. We couldn't make it without you!
Love, Christie
"If you understand what I'm telling you, act like it--and live a blessed life."
John 13:17 The Message
If you sincerely wish to feel blessed, make thanksgiving a habit, a regular part of your daily routine.
How has God blessed you? Today take time to make a list of His gifts to you: the talents, the opportunities, the possessions and the relationships that you may take for granted. Then, when you've spent sufficient time listing your blessings, offer a prayer of gratitude to the Giver of all good things. And to the best of your ability, use your gifts for the betterment of yourself, your family, your friends, and your world. Then you'll truly live a blessed life.
"Thanksgiving or complaining--these words express two contrasting attitudes of the souls of God's children in regard to His dealings with them. The soul that gives thanks can find comfort in everything; the soul that complains can find comfort in nothing."
Hannah Whitall Smith
The last couple of weeks have been up and down. Thursday, September 25, he had his g-tube removed! YIPPEE!!! He has had either a naso-gastric tube (down nose to stomach) or gastric tube (directly into stomach through skin) since October 26, 2007. WOW! 11 months. Last line he has in is his PICC line but I'm sure that will stay awhile since that's how he gets his TPN and they do blood draw through it.
He has had vomiting daily (sometimes twice a day). The vomiting causes him to feel really puny and when you feel you are always on the verge of puking; you have no desire to eat. So it's been a battle to get him to eat and a battle to keep it down! Otherwise, numbers have looked good; now if he could just gain some strength, energy, stamina....
Sunday, Sept 28 we celebrated my birthday by finally being able to go to church! What a glorious day, to be back amongst our church family and to have Ryan, Stacee, Aaron & Kristin with us! One week shy of a year since we were last there (last Sunday to attend was October 7, 2007...and Ron refereed Pigskin Classic that afternoon for our youth). Afterwards, we went home to rest for a couple of hours then met Laurie & Tony who had picked up G'ma from her rehab facility and Papa from assisted living facility for a late lunch at our favorite Italian restaurant, LaBistro. It was very nice to be there after the Sunday rush...we enjoyed a quiet, relaxing meal together. We then headed over to Papa's to relax and watch the football game, have Sprinkles cupcakes & presents and give G'ma her first tour of where her new home will be. It was an exhausting but very fun day! It really took a toll on Ron and it took him until Wednesday to recover.
Our insurance plan year with my school district runs from October 1 to September 30 so we started over with all new deductibles and out of pocket expenses as of Wednesday. YIKES!!!
I headed to Dallas Monday afternoon to stock up on another month's worth of prescriptions before d-day; some of our scripts can only be filled at a specific pharmacy over by Presby. It was a frustrating afternoon; one where I had to keep reminding myself that my circumstances do not determine my joy. I ran into a glitch and had to argue with the insurance company over paying $1900 for his lollipops; ended up coming home empty-handed and spent the next couple of days going through all of our hidden stash--I typically keep a couple in my purse, a couple in the truck, and a couple in "the baby" backpack and fortunately I had some stashed away in another "hospital bag". God bless Dr. Arslanlar and his compassion and willingness to step in and help whenever and however needed; and for listening to this stressed out woman calling on his cell phone (yes, he has given me his cell phone number to use whenever I feel necessary!) 4 minutes after hours...that's when I received word insurance wouldn't pay! But, with his help and of course the fact God goes before us and prepares the way; it was handled and they mailed them to us the next day at the covered price of $10. WHEW!!!!
For my actual birthday (Wed, Oct 1), Ron stepped up to the plate and kept up his tradition of making my favorite carrot cake (from scratch!). Bless his heart, it took him ALL day and he had to do it in stages with napping in between. I was also treated to lunch and gifts by my sweet co-workers. Our friends Ken & Barbie came over to visit in the evening, then Ryan & Stacee brought in dinner; we opened more presents and had the most delicious cake ever. I received the Wii Fit so we had to try that out, as well. I had several calls from the Presby nurses singing and wishing me happy birthday and my good friend, Cindy, came by on her way home from work bearing a card from the nurses on 6West and 3ICU as well as a sweet note from Dr. Shires to Ron. And of course many calls and well wishes from extended family. I AM SO BLESSED!
But the best present of all was that Ron had NO vomiting....first in at least 10 days or more! He then spent Thursday and Friday recuperating from all the festivities.
Nordell life in a nutshell....along with staying busy, busy, busy with wedding plans....5 weeks from the big day!!!
Thanks for your continued prayers and encouragement. We couldn't make it without you!
Love, Christie
"If you understand what I'm telling you, act like it--and live a blessed life."
John 13:17 The Message
If you sincerely wish to feel blessed, make thanksgiving a habit, a regular part of your daily routine.
How has God blessed you? Today take time to make a list of His gifts to you: the talents, the opportunities, the possessions and the relationships that you may take for granted. Then, when you've spent sufficient time listing your blessings, offer a prayer of gratitude to the Giver of all good things. And to the best of your ability, use your gifts for the betterment of yourself, your family, your friends, and your world. Then you'll truly live a blessed life.
"Thanksgiving or complaining--these words express two contrasting attitudes of the souls of God's children in regard to His dealings with them. The soul that gives thanks can find comfort in everything; the soul that complains can find comfort in nothing."
Hannah Whitall Smith
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