Perseverence

Today John worked on doing his left turns. It is such a mundane thing to do but takes a lot of patience and practice. Today he was able to make a couple of sharp left turns as well as smaller ones before he was too tired. He also was able to maneuver himself out of his room by himself and I have no idea how he managed because it is narrow and very tricky. In the afternoon they had a New Year's Eve Party - Midnight in Scotland! In the evening he had a shower and watched the Canada/USA hockey game. After that family came and we shared some time together. For those visiting I want to let you know on Monday, Jan. 4 John has an afternoon appointment and won't be in until later afternoon.

Day by Day

Today I spent some time on how I might be able to operate my computer and then some practice with driving my wheelchair. Nothing spectacular but it reminded me of the song Day by day, and with each passing moment, Strength I find to meet my trials here; Trusting in my Father's wise bestowment, I've no cause for worry or for fear. It seems to me that the Christian life is made up of many days doing the common everyday things and occasionally having moments that are exceptional and draw attention to our Christian commitment. Let's not forget the importance of day by day living for Christ whether anybody is watching or not.

Left turns

Yahoo! Today I managed to turn a sharp left with my wheelchair. This has eluded me in the past but today I was successful. I know I used the verse a few days ago but Phil 4:13 -I can do all things through Him who gives me strength - seems appropriate. It amazes me how something I was sure I couldn't do I can now do. The next thing to pray for is that I can do well enough to be an independent wheelchair driver. This is harder than getting my drivers licence!

The Time Between

In the story about Lazarus there was a gap of two days - John 11:6 Yet when he heard that Lazarus was sick he stayed where he was two more days. In my story at GF Strong the time between Christmas and New Years has a similar gap. Many staff are on holidays and not much programming is done. The care is excellent and I am getting better every day. After New years I will be learning how to do things I used to do but now I will do in a different way. I have to learn how to use my wheelchair, operate my computer and take care of myself (with Laverne's help). In addition I am trying to get stronger so on Feb 4 I can have the surgery for the diaphragmatic pacer. Jesus' delay in coming to Lazarus reminds me that God's timing is to bring him glory and I shouldn't begrudge the rest between Christmas and New Years

God's Faithfulness

This morning the focus at the church I went to was how God has worked in the past year. One of the songs we sang was "Great is thy Faithfulness". It was hard to sing this song as I thought about what has happened over the past few months. Then when I got to GF Strong the nurses were bagging John as something had gone wrong with the ventilator (the tubing had come disconnected but it took some time before they figured out where it was disconnected). It wasn't until I was looking back at the situation that I realized again just how faithful God has been to us, walking every step of the way with us.

Reflections

Yesterday Laverne updated you on the family things that went on for Christmas. For me one of the best things was when I had CBC radio on in the morning I listened to "The Messiah" The phase that struck me was Isa. 40:4 every valley shall be exalted... and the rough places (made) plain. This seems appropriate to me as someone who will have to be in a wheelchair from now on and it also brings into focus the sovereignty of God in our lives. I went much encouraged into the family time and especially enjoyed the carol sing. It was a good day, too as I felt that my rehab is not an impossibility because "I can do everything through him who gives me strength" Phil. 4:13

Party

This afternoon we had a party at GF Strong with John and family and friends. A good time was had by all. The young people brought along their WII, as well there is a games room with pool, ping pong, air hockey and pinball so there was lots to do and food to eat. The games room is by the gym so John went and did some more driving and is starting to get his left turns although it is going to require lots of practice. We finished with a carol sing-a great way to end. We are truly blessed with family and friends.

A Good and Perfect Gift

Today we were reminded of James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights... John's doctor came and told him that there is a surgery date for his diaphragmatic pacer. It is the first week in February provided he is healthy. We are very excited. Pray that John will remain healthy for that surgery.

Fatigue

Today I brought a ceramic Christmas Tree in for John's room. Also thanks for all those who have sent Christmas cards. He also has his poster from Kids Club up on the wall where he can see it. Today he met with the occupational therapist and he will be meeting with her and the fellow who works with computers tomorrow. John has been pretty fatigued the past few days which is pretty normal but he feels like he should be doing more and just can't. Please pray that he will have patience with his body and also that his strength will be renewed.

Improvements

Today we booked a room to celebrate Christmas afternoon with family and friends. This is so great as I wondered how we would fit everyone in if we were at VGH. John's stamina keeps improving each day and his appetite is better as well. I am very thankful for this. By the time the holidays are over and all the staff back at work he will be up for doing more as well. God has perfect timing!

More happening

Today John had more activities happening. First thing off the respiratory therapist changed his tracheostomy to a stainless steel one and the inner cannula was shorter. This really helped John as his vent kept having high pressure alarms go off. This is very annoying and a real trial when he was trying to get to sleep at night. His vent pressures dropped back to normal levels so that was nice for him. He also had physio today as well as his first shower in over a month (they did bed baths at VGH but it's not the same thing at all). All this activity and he was certainly ready for bed tonight. We are thankful that John is at GF Strong.

A Quiet Day

Today being Sunday was a quiet day as far as therapy is concerned. My sister and family all visited John and he had to show them how he could drive his wheelchair. He has managed a couple of slight left turns but not on a consistent basis. Hopefully by the end of the week he will have managed that. He can sure do a sharp right turn. The wheel chair is big but he has it making a very tight right hand turn. John's brother Robin also came down to see John today and that was a big event for John. He remains tired but he is up and about and doing more than he has for some time so I guess he should be tired. Pray that we will continue to look to God for our strength.

Make the Most of Your Time

Today is Saturday and not scheduled therapy happens but Laverne and I went down to the gym and I began practicing driving the wheelchair. There is forwards, stop/backwards, right and left. I have mastered all the moves except turning left. We had the gym to ourselves and practiced for 30 minutes. I didn't have to do it but following the principle of Eph. 5:15, 16 Be very careful then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity. Later on Katie came and I practiced some more. This left turn has got me going. Please pray that I will be able to master the left turn

GF Strong, A Plan for the Future

Today we talked with the social worker. She talked about what was available for when we go home although I am sure it will be several months before I can travel there. What I see is that we must live in the moment (today) but look forward to the future and what God has for us. We hope sometime in 2010 to move back to Powell River and occupy our house (the barn) but right now we have to learn many things before we get there.

Life at GF Strong

Life at GF Strong so far has been fairly quiet for John. It is probably a good thing that he arrived just before Christmas as he is not up to doing a lot. He is quite up for visitors but if nothing is happening then he tires very fast. He has met his new physiotherapist and today did a few exercises with her and promises of more tomorrow. He has not yet met his occupational therapist which is just as well as I am sure she would want him to start practicing to drive his wheel chair and he isn't really up to that yet-besides I need the practice. It is a good thing John doesn't get carsick is all that I can say! Please especially pray for John and his tiredness, as well he has a poor appetite these days.

Sharing the Joy

We had expected that I would not get back to GF Strong until January but a bed opened up and yesterday I moved into the bed I had before. This morning they brought my wheelchair from VGH and the technicians here got it back to full working order. As I was getting into it Gerry and Alma came and we were able to share stories of Kelly Creek Community Church and Kids Club and my joy at being back in rehab. I realized God does not want joy to be kept to oneself but to be shared. In the sharing the joy just gets bigger and bigger. thanks you Lord for getting me here to GF Strong and having Gerry and Alma to share this with.

Back at GF Strong

When I left John today he was ensconced back in rm 236 at GF Strong, exactly the room where he was before. He didn't make it there until 2:30 so tomorrow it will be mostly orientation. He will have a new physio therapist, occupational therapist, etc. Right now he is pretty tired. Please pray that he will have the strength to keep up with all that he needs to do tomorrow. We are so grateful for all your prayers and it is certainly a gift to us that he is back at GF Strong.

News Flash

John's Doctor from GF Strong just came by and said they have rearranged beds and John will go back to GF Strong tomorrow morning. Thank you for all your prayers. He will be on the second floor.

It's never over until it's over

In Joshua 8 the Israelites and Joshua went up against Ai for the second time and this time were able to defeat it. The parallel in my life is I will be going back to GF Strong (soon I hope) Please pray with me that I will be able to get rehab done and get back to Powell River. God is teaching me to be a patient patient. Also pray for Kelly Creek Community Church as they prepare for a new year.

Healing

I have been in GF Strong twice and each time some infection has caused me to go back to VGH. This reminds me of the story of Achan in Joshua 7. In order for Israel to advance they needed purity in the camp. In order for me to have rehab I have to be free of infection. The consequences were drastic for Achan and his family and for me to sit in VGH unable to do much rehab seems drastic, too. GF Strong won't have a bed for me until January. Please pray my healing will be complete and I will be ready to more on in my rehab. Thank you for all your prayers. You have no idea how much they mean to me.

In It For The Long Haul

Yesterday's conference cleared up several points, particularly that the IV antibiotics would not finish until December 19. Also there has been damage to my kidneys which they feel may be permanent. Today was quieter. Laverne broke a tooth and went to Katie's dentist to get it looked at. In the meantime I was visited by Dave Rogers an old Navigator friend who was very encouraging. What struck me about these two days is that they illustrate Romans 8:28. It may seem dark but God works for the good of those who love him. Today we also heard there will not be a bed available in GF Strong until January. On the other hand we are going to be visited by the computer tech for GF Strong next week to set up my computer for me. Please pray that we will live in the light of Romans 8:28

Hurray! I can swallow!

Something most of us don't think about is swallowing. The danger after an injury like mine is that you will swallow into your lungs and cause all kinds of problems and infection. Today I was tested on my swallowing and I could watch on the x-ray screen as the food went down and skipped over the trachea (windpipe) and went down the esophagus into the stomach. There were a few tense moments when some food was in the top of the trachea but the next swallow moved it into the esophagus. All this is to say that they now have it in black and white that I do a good job in swallowing my food and that it goes where it is supposed to go.

Conference Tomorrow

These past few days have been busy ones for John as the medical team prepares for a family conference with us tomorrow. Today he was able to not only get up in his wheelchair but left his room with the RT and was able to go and make a phone call. This is the first day for a couple of weeks that he has been on room air rather than oxygen so progress is being made. Right now John has some impaired kidney function. Would you pray with us that this could be resolved and not permanent? Also pray the there would be clear communication at the conference tomorrow and we would understand what we are being told. Thank you for all your prayers-Laverne

A Step of Faith

Lesson from Joshua 6:7 All too often I want to see results before I put in any effort. Right now I am anxious to get back to GF Strong but up until now I have just been waiting to follow rather than stepping out to make a way for myself. I feel that even as I begin to work to get back to GF Strong I am still FROG - fully relying on God. Just as in this chapter the destruction of Jericho was obviously a work of God but the people had to put their armed guard out ahead of the ark and a few days earlier the Jordan River did not back up until the priests put their feet into the water so pray with me that I will be proactive in getting back to GF Strong and will maintain a stance of FROG.

Step by Step

Today I feel a lot like Joshua in Chapter 5. He had already began walking with the Lord step by step over the Jordan River (Chapter 4) and I have been taken step by step as directed by the medical team. But now in Chapter 5 Joshua meet the captain of the Lord's host who explains he isn't conforming to anyone but if Joshua he can choose if he wants to go with God. Laverne and I have requested a family meeting with the doctors and other caregivers. Please pray (as it should be this week) that we would have clarity as to the goals and means of reaching them. May we obtain understanding and cooperation so we can go forward and I can get the ball rolling. We want to be like Joshua and choose to go with God's plan for us.

Stones from the River

Joshua 4:6,7 ...When your children ask in time to come "What do those stones mean to you?" Then you shall tell them... So these stones shall be to the people of Israel a memorial forever. In the story of Joshua 4 the Israelites took 12 stones from the river to create a memorial. They had never seen such a thing and Joshua told them it was so when their children asked they could tell them the story of coming to the promised land. Some of the memorials of my accident are 1. since I was injured so badly I have to be FROG 2. the blog encourages me to be open about my Christian life 3. a serious injury like this draws a family together and helps us realize God in really in charge. I have shared a few "stones" from the accident and I wonder if you would like to share significant "stones" in your life. If so please do and continue to pray for our family especially as we approach the celebration of Christ's birth.

FROG again

Joshua 3:7 The Lord said to Joshua, "Today I will begin to exalt you in the sight of all Israel, that they may know that, as I was with Moses, so I will be with you." This morning I woke up wondering what God had in store for me. In fact I had begun to wonder if their was anything he wanted from me. No, it wasn't standing in the footsteps of Moses and leading a great people but instead it was discovering my limitations and my continual need to be F.R.O.G.-fully relying on God.

Joshua

Joshua 1:2 Moses my servant is dead. Now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, into the land that I am giving to them... I woke up this morning thinking about many changes in my life. "My Moses" had died. Up until now I had maintained the desire and possibility of being my own boss, doing great things for God, praising him for the brilliance God had given me. Over the past few weeks I came to realize I was spinning my wheels going nowhere and yet so distracted I could not come to grips with my injury or with God. Today Laverne and I met with a couple of staff at VGH trying to work out an overall plan for my health in here and getting back to GF Strong for more rehab. Today we were reading through
Joshua 1,2 and I realized that a change as big as this physically means a change spiritually as well. I was very impressed with how Laverne handled the clinical side of things. Reading Joshua I was also impressed with him. Here was a fellow in his 80's who had always been the servant of Moses and now he was being asked to lead the people. Over the next few weeks I hope we can look at how the power of God is used in this man.
Chapters1&2 Joshua was ready for the challenge

Another infection

Joshua 1:5 As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you, nor forsake you. This morning I awoke feeling very well. I also realized how completely dependent on others I am to get things done. I could not turn on my radio or move to look out the other side of the bed. To me this speaks of Moses set aside and Joshua being called to lead the people. Somehow I never felt that Moses was upset with this change-after all Joshua's experience of God came as he stood at Moses side or waited on Moses as he met with God. For me there seems to be one setback after another in the "getting better" plan for myself. I was hoping to get back to GF Strong next week but there is another infection which will prevent this. Please pray with us that we will remember the verse for today-I will never leave you, nor forsake you.

Another fever

The past few days John has gradually been more awake and feeling better. This is an encouragement to both of us. This morning he had another fever so they did more tests and a chest x-ray which didn't turn out so good. They want to see if he can shake this without any antibiotic so we would really appreciate your prayers specifically for his chest. Today we were thinking about windows and that led us to read about Noah and the window in the ark. We were thinking about the faith Noah had to open the window and let the birds go. We need to have the faith of Noah as well.

Basics

2 Timothy 1:5 I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded now loves in you also. I woke up this morning and I was lying the way my mother taught me was the right way to go to sleep. This is the first time I can remember waking up that way since I have been here. That is a small thing, the other thing when I woke up with was the words of Psalm 100 Make a joyful noise unto the Lord. I memorized this psalm at vacation Bible school when I was about 10. Is just seemed it was the perfect way to get back to backs, basics of my parents teachings, Bible teaching, Sunday School and the basics Laverne and I set for ourselves since my accident of Proverbs 3:5,6. I am reminded of a chorus, "read your Bible, pray everyday and you'll grow, grow, grow. It's one thing to be a Christian and another to be a growing Christian.

Eating again

Today John had a swallow test which he passed without out difficulty. He had not been able to eat for over a week. He was quite happy and ate all his supper without any trouble whatsoever for which I am thankful. Please pray for John as he continues to be very tired.

Are we there yet?

As I was reading Psalm 139 today it struck me that God has a perfect GPS. He always knows where we are but often we do not! Our responses to him are varied e.g. when Abraham was told to go (Hebrews 11:8) "not knowing where he was going" - like the first day of school or change in house or job and he motivated his whole family to go with him. His father who was told to go stopped half way. I want to go all the way. Right now I am having memory shifts. Please pray I will find myself again. John

Jesus is our Rock

Psalm 18:2 The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer
my God, my rock, in who I take refuge,
my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold
John's prayer before I left him today comes from this verse. The thought was that Jesus is our rock and we have to build our hopes, our future, and our feelings on him. God doesn't change and he will keep us on an even keel in spite of our circumstances. John is still struggling with the side effects of some of his medications. Please pray that his feet will be firmly planted on the Rock as his doses for different meds are changed

Not Much Change

John's condition has not really improved. He is discouraged about this as it is keeping him from rehab. Please pray that we will be patient and that his condition will improve. It is a great concern as he has been at VGH for almost 3 weeks now. Thanks for all your prayers and concern.

Talking again

This evening before I left John's cuff was deflated on his trach. This means he can talk again which makes life so much easier. He had a temperature again this morning so the infectious disease doctor saw him but has no insights into what is happening. Please continue to pray as John's overall situation has not changed much.

Off Isolation, Visitors Allowed

John is off isolation. What a relief! He can now have visitors and nobody has to gown of mask. It was a much more pleasant visit today. John's progress is very slow. He still is very tired, however he is more awake than yesterday. My prayer comes from Isa 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed for I am your God, I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. We don't have to fear knowing that God is with us to strengthen us.

Slow progress

Today John was a bit more awake than yesterday. He was wanting to communicate which he was not the least bit interested in doing yesterday. He also tolerated being up in his chair for four hours. Now it is a case of waiting for things to resolve. I am hopeful that by tomorrow he will be off isolation. Continue to pray that he will become more alert so he can have his cuff deflated and be able to eat, etc.

Back to a cuffed trach

For the past few days John's level of consciousness has decreased. Today, because he is not really awake his trach was changed back to a cuffed trach. This is to protect his airway. It will be changed back when he is more aware of what is happening around him. It also means he cannot talk but as he isn't communicating at present anyways it isn't an issue. He has not had a fever for a few days so they have also taken him off his antibiotics. Please pray that there will be a resolution to his level of consciousness.

More of the same

Today John was not much changed from yesterday. In spite of being very tired he got up in his chair and was there for 2 hours and tolerated that well. Being in isolation is difficult. It is very hot as you must wear a gown, gloves, and mask. Pray for the nursing staff as they spend the most time with him. Also pray for the medical staff as they meet tomorrow that they would have wisdom in how to treat John. Today ones of the psalms we read was the 27th one. Ps 27:5 For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent; he will lift me high upon a rock.

No extra visiting at present

After not having a fever for a couple of days he spiked another temperature this morning. In spite of it being the weekend they have called in specialists. The infectious disease doctor was in to see him today. He ordered a lot of tests and until some of them come back his visitors are restricted to 2 designated visitors. This will probably be for quite a few days. Right now he is so tired he really doesn't want to see people anyways. Please continue to pray for healing for John and wisdom for the doctors.

Another tiring day

Today was not such a good day for John. His temperature has been down for 2 days now but he is very tired and they cannot figure out what is going on. He had a CT scan of his abdomen today without anything showing up. It is frustrating that nothing much has changed in the last week except his temperature is now normal. Please pray that we will continue to trust in the Lord as we travel this path he has laid out for us

Chair at Last!

"Little man, you've had a busy day," my mother used to say when tucking me into bed after a particularly active day. It may be a quote but I can't remember from what. In the morning I had a nurse orienting on the vent and lots of physio as the physiotherapist was looking for my wheelchair, the object of a combined effort by the physio, occupational therapist and the charge nurse of the ward to borrow from GF Strong. It arrived by lunch and surprise, surprise after being offered a strictly manual chair what turned up was my own chair that was assigned to me at GF Strong. Shortly after lunch I with 6 assistants got set up in the chair. The OT and PT were there to adjust my headrest so my head points in the right direction. I was up for over an hour- I think you get the idea of my day. I remember this morning feeling bored and wondering if anything was going to happen, instead I found out that hospital life has many surprises, something I've also found out about my life and walk with God. Many times, though things seem tough my heart leaps up as Laverne comes in and shares the responses to yesterday's blog. I'm trying to say that your comments are an encouragement to me as you do the work of the Lord in the place where I am not. Pray that soon my wheelchair and occupant may return to GF Strong.

John has stumped the doctors

Today we read from Isaiah 49 after we read MariAnn's comment on verses 14 & 15. The last half of verse 13 is also encouraging to me. 'the Lord has comforted his people and will have compassion on his afflicted.' It is certain that John is having a trying time of it. Although he is not getting any worse he is also not getting any better. Today as I was leaving they were going to do a CT scan and see if they could come up with anything. Please pray that God will grant the doctors wisdom to understand what it going on with John. Please also pray that they will be able to get some sort of chair so that he doesn't have to stay in bed all day but can get up for at least short periods.

Not Shrinking Back

Today was another quiet day for John as he still has a fever and is feeling very tired. I am working with the staff so that he can be more active. This takes a lot of effort on the ward he is on now because it is not staffed with auxiliary staff for patients like John the same way the spine unit it staffed. We are working hard at it and hope that he will soon be getting up rather than staying in bed all the time. As we were reading in Hebrews 10 & 11 the last verse of chapter 10 struck John. It says "But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed but of those who have faith and preserve their souls". It was a reminder that we should not shrink back but have faith. We are certainly learning about what it means to have faith.

Encourage one another

Today was a quiet day for John. He enjoyed having communion with Ian which is always special for him. He is feeling very tired and has a fever. We were reading 1 Thessalonions 4&5 today. When I looked at it again this evening before writing the blog 1 Thess 5:11 jumped out at me. "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. " So many people have told us how encouraged they are by the blog and I must say that John and I have been so encouraged and built up by your prayers and comments

Setbacks

Today I'd like to talk about setbacks. A setback in hospital rarely descends without warning. Yesterday they did various tests and x-rays. Once I hear a positive outcome report I immediately fill in the blanks with the thing that would made it a complete joy. As a result the next consultation brings with it a disappointment. Today I found out I have pneumonia and won't be going to GF Strong for a while which is disappointing news to everyone but a complete devastation to the castles in the air I had been building. So how do I go on from here? Proverbs 3:5,6 says Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight. I had spent all my time figuring out my best solution with only a few 'arrow' prayers for God to approve my solution. The problem wasn't that I had figured out my own solution but rather I had forgotten F.R.O.G. Fully rely on God - everywhere, every time, every place. Please pray that I don't leave God out of the picture. Love John

More Tests

John has a low grade fever and so they did more tests today and repeated others. The fever and the tests have left him tired but more encouraged than yesterday. Tonight he found out that the chest X-ray showed he has some consolidation. We were praying that some test would help in diagnosing what the problem is for which I am thankful however I am disappointed with the diagnosis as it means he will not be going back to GF Strong on Monday. John and I were really looking forward to getting back there. Pray that we will have the patience to continue to persevere at VGH.

Discouragement

Today was a down day for John. He was a bit discouraged. He has not been up for a week now but in bed all day long. Also he is concerned that when they are ready to send him back to GF Strong their will not be a bed for him. We read Psalm 22 together and ended up talking about the last verse "They will proclaim his righteousness to a people yet unborn - for he has done it."

Waiting

It looks like I will stay in VGH until after the weekend. This is good as I will start off the week at GF Strong with physio, OT, assistive technology etc. The down side is that my bed at GF Strong may not be available in which case I would stay in VGH until a bed is available (maybe a week or two). Ps 40:1 I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry. Pray that there will be a bed for me when I am truly ready.

Going Out in Joy

Isa. 55:12 You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace. Yesterday I experienced the joy of sharing God's words with visitors and staff. It makes me feel once again that God has placed me here for a reason. I still haven't fully grasped what the reason is but I know that it is what God wants and that it is "for God's renown" (vs. 13) and he will bring it to pass. I have no way of doing what God says he will perform when his word goes out. What I can do is send out his word which starts the ball rolling, where it stops only God knows. Please pray that I may send out his word trusting in God's faithfulness, not my own ability.

Solution to Dehydration

Today John had a procedure called a peg which is connected to his stomach and water can be put in to keep him hydrated without him having to spend so much time drinking. He tolerated that well and was eager to eat when he got back to the ward. We are still not too sure what the plan is for when he goes back to GF Strong so pray that we will have patience so that he goes back when he is healthy to do so

Respiratory Ward

I am thankful John is feeling better today. He is still on IV's but is eating and sounding a bit more like himself. Right now we are just taking things one step at a time and not trying to rush anything. The doctor who has a lot to do with the diaphragm pacer was his doctor today and told him that it looks like January is when it will be happening. We are hoping to hear more about the whole procedure. This is something to look forward to and also to pray that he will be healthly when he needs to be for that surgery. A prayer I have always liked which is not only for John but for so many of you who are praying for us is in Phil 1:3-6 I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Back in VGH

Today (late Sunday) as I write I can tell you that John is back in VGH in Jim Pattison 12700. These past few days he has not been feeling well and so today after another visit to emergency after one of the RT's who knew him from the spinal unit said that something wasn't right they decided to admit John rather than send him back to GF Strong. Fortunately the bed on Respiratory that he only left on Tuesday was made available for him. Because of bed switching and other factors he never made it up to the ward until 11pm. The verse that we shared in emergency while waiting was I Thess 1:3 We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Quiet Weekend

Today was a quiet day for John as it is the weekend. His niece, Melinda came in and practiced her newly acquired nursing skills and listened to his lungs and fed him his lunch. It was fun for John as he always has a soft spot for any student. Please continue to pray for John, his blood pressure and his fluid intake as this limits his ability to do other things at this point in time.

Another visit to emergency

John continues to have problems with his blood pressure and fluid intake. Because of this, this afternoon we made a trip to VGH emergency to get a couple of litres of IV fluid as they don't do IV's at GF Strong. By just after 10pm we were back at GF Strong and John was so happy to be back. They had saved his dinner for him so I fed him that and tucked him in for the night.

Taking the Time

Today I met and spoke with Crystal who was going to Capenwray Bible School in New Zealand when she fell off a bunk while sleeping and ended up in GF Strong. After we met Crystal we went back to the lunch room and met Nonie (Laverne's sister) and her husband who are on holidays on the coast for a couple of weeks. They both mentioned how nice it was to be quiet and take time together on the beach. Later today we expect to see Stephen (Laverne's brother) and Debbie his wife. Stephen is on sabbatical from his church and they have taken an opportunity to get away from the kids and spend time together praying. What a radical idea it would be if more churches gave their pastors and spouse time to spend together with the Lord Psalm 118:24 This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

A lovely messenger

The other day we had a visit from a friend from Powell River. She had passed on news of me being in GF Strong to her former pastor. Her pastor passed the information on to one of the church members who works here as a chaplain. In addition she brought news and a card and book from other friends in Powell River. The world says don't shoot the messenger and the Christian says love the messenger. It reminded me of Phil 2:19,20 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. I have no one else like him, who takes a genuine interest in your welfare.

Back to GF Strong

Thank you every one who prayed. John is back at GF Strong. I had a phone call this morning to say he would be going back. At 2pm he was loaded into the back of an ambulance with the Respiratory Therapist and her student as well as the paramedic. I was able to ride in the front of the ambulance. The staff were very happy to see John back but he is very tired after three nights in emergency and the last night on the ward an alarm kept going off. I am looking forward to spending tomorrow with John at GF Strong and seeing how the programs all work.

A short blog

Thank you all for praying. Late this afternoon John was transferred from the emergency department to the respiratory floor. After spending three very noisy nights in emergency he now has a private room and it is right by the nursing station. He is on the 12th floor of the Jim Pattison Pavilion and has a lovely view of the fall colours. I am thankful the he continues to improve-today the IV was discontinued except for IV antibiotics.

The ministers cat John marches on

After being in the emergency ward for over two and a half days a lot has been accomplished. My infection is being treated, I am on a special mattress and being turned regularly which is pretty amazing for such a busy ward as emergency, I am getting to know some of the nurses, my appetite has returned, I have a call bell I can work with my head and mouth suction within reach.
The next advance was the announcement that I am going to the respiratory ward when a bed is available. Please pray for a bed for me. This is the same ward that looks after patients with diaphragmatic pacers so getting on the ward early gives the staff a chance to know me and vice versa. This experience is summed up for me by Col 1"17 And he is before all things and in him all things hold together. Please pray this "all things" part will "hold together".

Admitted back

John has been admitted to VGH. This does not mean he has a bed. There are very few ventilator beds. He is not admitted to the spine unit as that is not his problem at the moment. He has a urinary infection and probably a chest infection as well. Please pray that as he spends his second night in emergency that he will get the care he needs (his brother Robin is spending the night with him so I can get some sleep) and also that he will get a bed soon. My prayer is from Ps. 25:6 Remember O Lord, Your compassion and Your loving kindnesses, For they have been from of old

Back to VGH

Yesterday John was not well and was sent back to VGH. He spent the day and night in emergency and this morning they have decided to admit him. He was dehydrated and they have started him on antibiotics.Please pray for him as he is not feeling well. I will write more later today

My Walk Continued

I realized later that my life belonged to Christ because on that night when I decided to go to Bible study I nade the decision to try one more time. When I accepted he rescued my from my depression. Before I was afraid to talk to people because I couldn't"t be sure what they thought of me. After I accepted Christ I realized that since God accepted me it didn't really matter what others thought of me. Through the years God has used me in Bible study and speaking, both skills that started with the group where I became a Christian but in my life I took little thought that God owned it. I was doing a lot of Christian things on my own. Then on August 17th 2009 it was as if God called in his markers. When I awoke on the Spinal Step down Unit I realized my life had changed dramatically. Rather than blame God I view this new life as an opportunity to serve him wholeheartedly. Each day I wake excited about what God is doing in my life. Please pray that I will continue to life my life wholehearted for God. 1 Cor 15:58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

The start of my walk with Jesus

When I first went to university I suffered from severe depression so much so that I dropped out but came back the next year determined to do better. By January I was falling back into depression so one night I was contemplating ending it all but decided to take one more chance. Early in September a Christian group had come round the dorm with a questionnaire and an invitation to a Bible study. I remembered the guy on my floor who had invited me and so I took courage and knocked on his door and asked if I could go to the Bible study he had invited me to. He said "sure it is in the main lounge." Another challenge to my courage as everyone entering my dorm went right past the lounge but I went. We sang hymns and played games and then divided into Bible study groups. This study had been going for 3 weeks and so I missed the studies on salvation and accepting Christ so things went along smoothly until the study on the Lordship of Christ. One of the questions asked what areas of your life have you turned over to Jesus and I realized that I had not turned anything over to him so I knelt by my bed and accepted Christ more (to follow tomorrow) 2 Cor. 5:17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old is gone the new has come!

GF Strong

Today John left VGH for the first time in over two months. He was transferred to GF Strong Hospital in the morning. By 3pm many members of his new care team had come to introduce themselves and help him understand how they fit into his care plan. After he was set up in bed had had measurements taken for the wheelchair for him there. It takes 4 hours to set up a chair for him and since the hospital just had 3 new admissions he doesn't expect a chair until at least tomorrow. Just after they set him up with a call bell the assistive technology people came by and set up his TV so he could control it using "sip and puff". Sip and puff is done into a special 'straw' and is how he can control his environment, turn off lights, use the phone etc., as well as drive his wheelchair. Please pray for John as I (Laverne) am back in PR for a few days. Also pray for his adjustment to new staff and expectations a GF Strong. Pray for those from the step down unit staff that he affected. Our verse for today in Phil 3:14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
PS GF Strong is at Laurel and 26th close to Oak St. If you are visiting you access it off King Edward(25th) turning north onto Laurel St.. Visiting hours are 12 to 8.

How Great is Our God

^{Phil 2:13} God is working in you. He wants your plans and your acts to be in keeping with his good purpose.This was the verse John was reflecting on for the past day. It was the verse he immediately thought of after he had figuratively picked himself up off the floor when he was informed that he is to go to GF Strong Rehab tomorrow. John's plans were that it would probably be at least a month of waiting before he would get to go, obviously that was not God's plans.We are so excited that he is able to go so soon. The verse that came to my mind was Eph 3:20 God is able to do far more than we could ever ask for or imagine. He does everything by his power that is working in us. I could not have imagined that John would get into rehab so soon.

On another note John also had his nerve test today and it was successful. This means he will progress to the next stage in the possibility of having a diaphragm pacer. We will keep you posted as to what happens next with that when we find out ourselves.

Kids Club

Kelly Creek Kids Club comes to VGH. As I said before Gerry and Alma brought the cards from Kids Club to my hospital room. Laverne used her decorating skills to put them up on my wall. They immediately became a topic of conversation with the staff asking how I got so many homemade cards. This gave me an opportunity to tell them about Kids Club especially the teaching sessions about God. I also told about how the community school and the church share facilities and that blew their minds. I also got to tell them about BC Hydro putting in 2 free street lights so kids from kids club could safely cross the street from the church to the gym. One batch of cards allowed me to start several Bible conversations. Isa. 11:6d and a little child will lead them.

Surprises

A couple of weeks ago I was chatting with a personal care aide and we were talking about names and she was called by a diminutive of her name. To many she was just a personal care aide responsible for washing me every morning and feeding me my meals if Laverne wasn't there. She came from India where rich people still have servants and diminutives like Johnny (vs John) are used only for children or servants. Without people realizing it they used a name that really bothered her. Imagine my surprise to learn she was a RN in her own country and was working on an exam to become registered in Canada. I think God is trying to teach me not to jump to conclusions (see yesterday) and the value he places on each and every one of us. Matt 6:26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?

The danger of jumping to conclusions

Yesterday I heard that my doctor wanted me to do my rescue breathing without any oxygen. My numbers had been in the 5-8 minute range and when I did the first test on room air it was under 2 minutes. Then I spent the night thinking bad thoughts about Dr T. The next morning Dr T. came to see me and explained that the nature of the test had changed and I am now trying to fit the muscle movements I can make with the pacer for the diaphragm I hope to receive and he was not concerned about the shortness of the test but in training my muscle to work in partnership with the pacer. This entirely changed my outlook about the tests and the doctor.
I wonder how many times I have read a Bible verse and jumped to conclusions about what it means?

Visitors & Update

Cards Galore
Today I was visited by Gerry and Alma from Powell River who brought me cards from Kelly Creek Kids Club. The cards now decorate my room and are a conversation piece. Last year our attendance was 12-16. Last week was the first meeting this year and attendance was 23.
Blast from the Past
In 1993 our family spent a year in Kenya. Katie attended Tichie Swot in grade 5 at Rift Valley Academy. The school principal was Mark Buhler from Campbell River. Imagine our surprise when he turned up to visit this afternoon. We shared an update on RVA and our families. Mark is in Vancouver for another month until he goes back to Kenya so we can expect further visits. Yeah!
Update on my status
1. I am now officially on the list to go to GF Strong. There are only 2 beds for ventilators so I will get to go when a ventilator bed becomes available and when I am at the top of the list
2. Nerve tests for diaphragm pacing will be Monday morning. This test will be the first one done in a hospital room in VGH. If I fail this one they will give me another one in the usual place-the Diamond Centre just across the road from VGH. If I qualify in these tests I will be able to breathe normally without a ventilator

Thinking Things Through

Today I had an extended talk with the main doctor on my case this week. We didn't talk about my case at all instead we discussed research in lung medicine and as far abroad as the binary system that makes computers work. At no time did I lose sight of the fact that Dr S. was my doctor and this reminded me that I can broaden my relationships with others beyond just sharing the gospel. Another example, this morning I shared a little adolescent psychology with my personal care giver who is having trouble with a stepdaughter. 1 Corinthians 10:31b whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

Two eventful happenings

1. We watched the beginning of the Tommy Douglas Story, Prairie Giant and it was an eye opener to see a committed Christian get involved in public service (politics). For me it was even more thought provoking as I lay in my hospital bed benefiting from the medical plan that Tommy Douglas pioneered.
2. Escape! Yes, today I escaped from my room and with a team wandered the corridors of Centennial Pavilion ninth floor, saw a picture of the staff at their Christmas party (it is hard to recognize them when they're not wearing scrubs). Over by the elevators I saw the picture of Tom and Linda who donated to the Spinal Unit- Powell River is everywhere!

Sharing Jesus

This morning I was visited by the pastor of my sister-in-law's church. Ian came and we shared the Lord together. First of all we told stories about baptisms-they just got a new baptismal water heating system, then Ian shared his message on Jude (It doesn't have very many verses) from Sunday morning. Then he brought communion to me and after that we prayed. It reminds me once again that it is not the place (church or hospital) but the heart of the believer and the presence of the Holy Spirit that allows us to share together. Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

2 months and starting to get bored

After I realized I had been here for two months I began to get bored. The blog has occupied my time and I really enjoy reading the responses (Please give your name so I know who is writing). For the first time last night I began to feel bored and wondering what I ought to be doing. I had been making up a movie in my head when my nurses came in to give me a turn. As I shared with them my plans for the movie one of them asked me if I couldn't make up a skit for their Christmas party. In an instant what had been an idle occupation became a real job. Praise the Lord! Matthew 6:33 (New International Version) But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things (including a skit to write) will be given to you as well.

Another Milestone

Laverne reminded me today that it has been two months since my accident. Two months of twenty-four hour care with a team of doctors along with other health care professionals sorting out my instabilities on a ventilator. I thank God daily for Canadian Heath Care. I can't imagine what it would be like to live a couple of hundred miles south. It is interesting that the person who promoted health care was an evangelical preacher Tommy Douglas. I thought of Luke 10:27 the greatest commandment according to Jesus 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind': and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' I am thankful for all those loving me and looking after me

Working Together as One Person

Toward morning I had a bit of a disaster which required a lot of work and the changing of my whole bed. Once again I was impressed with the team work of the staff or as Paul puts it 'they work together as on person" with a purpose of caring for me. Again I have been excited to see the churches in Powell River also work together as one person. Paul goes one to say " And I will know that you work to spread the teachings of the good news." Phil 1:27c. I was excited to hear that Glacier Park Fellowship is calling a pastor and I am convinced that all the Christians in Powell River will get behind and support him in getting started. Praise the Lord!

Being New Again

It seems amazing that it has been only two days since I started to eat again. Things are settling down into a routine. In the morning my breakfast arrives just before 9am. I wait for Laverne who arrives just after 9. It's strange to have to wait and have to depend upon someone else to feed me. Deb W. said it reminded her of when her children were learning to eat and it is humbling but true. It reminds me of the first Bible verse I memorized after becoming a Christian. 2 Cor. 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! It is like being new all over again as a Christian as I have to be trusting more in God as all my own resources are gone.

A Very Busy Day

Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Today was a big day for John. He started off by having his first breakfast in 8 weeks. He had barely finished breakfast when the physiotherapist came to do range of motion exercises and breathing exercises. After that he had a session of rescue breathing. For this they took John off the ventilator and he breathes on his own for as long as he can tolerate. This was his first time and he was able to breathe for 2 minutes. This is so if anything happened to his ventilator he would know that he could breathe on his own for a few minutes until help came. The respiratory therapist said it does not mean that he will be coming off the ventilator, but only that he could manage for a few minutes on his own if he had to. We had a few minutes before his lunch came. After this was a family conference with some of the health care staff. This meeting was held in the social worker's office and was the first time John had been out of his room since he got to the Step-down unit. As soon as our meeting was over our friends Patricia and Dietmar came and John got a badly needed hair cut. He had a little rest and then his supper came. After supper my dad and sister came to visit. When we left at 7:30 he was most excited because his evening snack had come it was a peanut butter sandwich which is his very favourite.

Food, glorious food

Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Today was a big day for John. He had his swallow test today. This consisted of trying to eat a number of foods of different consistencies. They were all dyed blue. After he had these to eat his lungs were then suctioned to see if there was any blue in his lungs. He passed the test with flying colours. This means his naso-gastric (feeding) tube came out of his nose. Was he ever happy! I was able to feed him lunch and supper. He was so eager to eat that even hospital food tasted great to him. Pray that he will be careful especially when he is drinking so that it doesn't go into his lungs.

Thanksgiving

Monday, October 12, 2009
Ps. 136:1 Give thanks to the Lord, because he is good. His faithful love continues forever. As I read this psalm this morning I saw Israel giving thanks for all God had done for them. I, too want to give thanks.
Give thanks to the most powerful God of all who kept me alive through my accident.
Give thanks to God who is always there even during the night and when I wake and think of my situation. He is always there to lift my spirit and reassure me that his way is perfect Ps. 19.
This is a good day to give thanks. He is a rock for all those who trust in him Ps. 138:8
Don't stop now!

God is Faithful

Sunday, October 11, 2009
When I first came to the hospital Laverne and I celebrated our 32nd anniversary. Yesterday Pat and Bob Lewis visited as they were down for two weddings, two young couples starting out. When the vows were said 32 years ago or this weekend we meant them with all our hearts but we don't know what is going to happen. For Laverne and I the past two months have been a big alteration but the vows remain. Before I got married when I accepted Christ as Lord his promise was to always be with me and that too has happened, God is faithful. God, Laverne and I will go through this together even though Laverne and I don't know where we are going, we both trust God and he does know the future. I John 3:2

More on Visitors

Saturday, October 10, 2009
Yesterday was an exciting day. I had several surprise guests that really encouraged my heart. Irene Sheih and some of her church family came along with a pastor from India and prayed for me and anointed me with oil. James 5:14 Suddenly the hospital room transformed and I was back in the first century with believers coming together out of love to pray for one who is sick. Later in the day two Navigator friends Nan & Alex came to take Laverne for dinner. Alex brought his clarinet and gave us a concert. As usual I was worried about the noise on the ward but my nurse shared that everybody on the ward had enjoyed it and wished he would come every week. Another friend from years ago, Bill Lee also showed up. We were able to share our hearts together. WOW! What a day of visitors.
I know lots of people are reluctant to visit people in the hospital but if you only do it a few time you can get over the reluctance and what a blessing you can be.

Virtual Visitors

Friday, October 9,2009
The room across from me seems always filled with visitors, yet it struck me last night that I get many visitors as well. Each one of you who reads my blog has paid me a virtual visit, but maybe you are like me and you don't know what to do or say on a hospital visit. Allow me to make some suggestions.
1. Talk about patient's current condition (comment on the blog)
2. Talk about your situation
3.Share prayer requests
4. Pray
Share the blog address with anyone and fill my room with virtual visitors

II Cor. 13:14 "May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all."

He leads me beside still waters Ps.23:2b

Thursday, October 8, 2009
That's the way it feels today. Everything is going well and I feel great like I'm beside the still waters-now is the most dangerous time. When things are going bad and I have shortness of breath, alarms going on and staff running everywhere there is no difficulty in looking to the Lord to direct my paths but when I am sitting beside the still waters, listening to the brook, feeling the gentle breeze then the temptation is great to take control and lean on my own understanding. Pray for me that beside still waters and green pastures I will still acknowledge the Lord is my Shepherd.

Spasms

Wednesday, October 7, 2009
I'm lying in my bed and suddenly my body has a mind of its own, my body has got some stimulation and is trying to send a message to my head. Because my head didn't get a message my body reacts on its own and it over reacts. I was thinking about this in terms of the church. Col 1:18 says And he is the head of the body, the church. We need to be connected to our head, if not we can continue to be the body but our reactions will be from ourselves rather than controlled by the Spirit. We need to pray that all our churches are indeed connected to the head.

Picture in the Night

Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Last night in preparation for getting a cuffless trach (so I could talk all the time). I had to wait until 1am before they inflated the trach cuff. As a result I lay in bed thinking and I came up with a picture that started with the greatest commandment Deut 6:5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. Suddenly I saw this as a flower on a seed package and then I thought of what happens when you turn the seed package over. There are the instructions on where to plant it, how deep, how close, in or out of the sun etc. That connected in my mind with the 10 commandments e.g. you shall have no other gods before me is like saying don't plant the seed with another, remember the Sabbath day-give God space in your life. Somehow the 10 commandments took on a new light as I thought of them in terms of enabling us to carry out the greatest commandment. No longer are they restrictions on what we should or should not do but rather directions on how to carry out the love that God commands

Eagles' Wings Isa. 40:31

Monday, October 5, 2009
Yup, I woke up this morning on eagles' wings, everything was going great, each staff member that came in wanted to talk about how we were going to advance. I got up in the wheelchair without my neck brace and they are talking about changing my trach to one that will enable me to eat. I was ready to go and then I sat in my chair for four hours and Laverne wasn't going to be here until 4pm. It gave me time to think of Isa. 40:31 31 those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. It brought me back to the condition for soaring i.e. that we wait upon the Lord

The Sabbath

Sunday, October 4, 2009
Remember the Sabbath Day and keep it holy. For the most part the church has replaced the Sabbath with Sunday and consider it a day of rest. I remember my father telling me about getting into trouble for going out Sunday afternoon to play soccer with some of the boys. He might have got away with it except he sang in the church choir and missed the practice. Today we are not as strict in sabbath rules which really leaves it up to each person as to how they keep the sabbath. I find the hospital regime to aid considerably to keeping the sabbath. Sunday they let us rest up for all they plan for us to do on Monday. I'm hoping to make it a habit that will continue after a leave the hospital. Please pray for me.

He shall make your paths straight

Saturday, October 3, 2009
The title is a modern translation of he shall direct thy paths and yesterday was a prime example. I had a crisis in the morning and Laverne and the health care staff were very concerned but I snapped out of it in the afternoon. Today I have had no problems whatsoever. At first glance the path seems very crooked but this morning we were realizing that having seen me through a crisis, and today not having one, Laverne could go home with confidence that I would be okay. Please pray for me over the next couple of days that Laverne and I will be apart.

He Shall Direct Your Paths

Friday, October 2, 2009
Today did not turn out as I expected. It all began innocently enough with my cuff deflation and speaking valve. The next thing I remember I was conscious but not really there. Apparently my blood pressure and then my blood sugar went down. After coming through that I was able to get up in the wheelchair for an hour and then went back to bed and had another go with the cuff and valve which was just great because I had visitors from PR. Craig and Sherry came to see me and brought greetings from Westview Baptist Church. You ought to see the card they brought-it is perfect for the minister's cat.
It seemed like a very odd path to take today but like Proverbs 3:5-6 says trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths. So I am not in charge of the direction, my job is to trust.

Future Expections

Thursday, October 1, 2009
Today was the 60th anniversary of GF Strong Rehab Hospital. My sister Marsha and I (Laverne) spent two and a half hours on a tour of the facility. This is where John will graduate to when he leaves VGH. They have a lot of different therapies as they work with a wide variety of patients. There is a gym for wheelchair sports and a weight room as well as a pool for therapy. I sat in a wheelchair and they lifted me in a hoist onto the exercise mat. This is a hoist similar to the one that is used to lift John into the wheelchair every day. There is a room of assisted technology where I played solitaire on the computer using a hat with reflective tape that activated the mouse. John will be on the second floor where all the spinal patients live. (They work on the first floor.)

Toleration

Wednesday, September 30, 2009
About 3 days ago I had new tubing, a smaller trach, and a valve put in so I could talk both when I breath in and out which some will look on as a blessing and others as a curse. These were a lot of changes which were very exciting as they also lead to me being able to swallow and eat soon. Before that happens I have to tolerated having my cuff deflated and the speaking valve in. This is not as easy as it seems. I felt like I was not getting enough air so they fiddled with many things like giving me a bigger volume of air, even pills for anxiety, upping my medication but nothing seemed to help me tolerate this any better. Today they decided to give me more breaths per minute and finally I feel comfortable with the cuff down. This reminded me of the program I listened to on CBC about the church in China. The 3 Self church has the bells and whistles (like meds and equipment) but no breath. The house church movement in China could not tolerate this. To them the breath of God (Spirit) is what is necessary. The verse that I thought to go with this is 1 Cor. 9:22b I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some.

Hard Work

Tuesday, September 29, 2009
This has been a busy week for John. Yesterday he had his trach changed to a smaller one. This will eventually allow him to swallow so he can eat. He also had a valve put in his trach which allows him to speak on expiration so he can talk more than 5 words at a time. Pray for John as when the cuff for his trach is deflated he feels like he is not getting enough air and that is a scary feeling. The physio started to work with him on exercises to augment the breathing done by the ventilator. The occupational therapist worked on his wheelchair so it is much more comfortable for him to sit in now. He also had a visit from the dietician. I think all the different medical areas have picked this week to start doing something with John. It is quite exciting but there is a lot of work involved for John and most of the hard stuff not exactly what I anticipated would be the hard stuff.

The FAT Christian Bible Study (Part Two)

Monday, September 28, 2009
I was part way through the third period when a friend Allen from Powell River came. He'd been doing a course and came down a day early and visited me before and now the course was over and rather than spend the time in his hotel room he came to see me. At first I was trying to listen to the game and talk to him but I decided to chuck the game and spend the time with Allen. At first we talked about how things were going but then Allen hauled out his palm pilot. He had several Bible studies he created on it . He asked me which one I wanted and I told him one on the resurrection from John 20 so we went through the Bible study answering the questions. It's surprising what happens when you have to condense your answer into 5 or 10 words in 1 or 2 breaths. We had a great time and a time of prayer and said good-bye. It turned out that the cuff deflation went 1/2 hour longer than planned.
So what is a FAT Christian Bible study. F-Faithful. Allen was faithful to come and visit even after 9 pm. A-Available. I was available because I wasn't going anywhere and also because the cuff was deflated so I could talk and Allen had the Bible study available. T-Teachable. I think everybody should try doing Bible study with a trach because I couldn't say too much. I was teachable and learned a lot more.

A very busy day (Part One)

Sunday, September 27, 2009
When I awoke at 8 o'clock my nurse was ready to put in a new NG tube. Taking the old one out was horrible. Putting the new one in wasn't much better. Then my doctor came along and told her to put it down another 5 cm after which they had to X ray it to make sure it went into my stomach. The new tube was much smaller and once in much more comfortable. After the X rays were taken I got up in the wheelchair. When I went to bed after the chair they deflated the trach cuff and lo and behold I could speak. They gave me a break around 5 pm but a 7 they deflated the cuff again. I was listening to the hockey game and wondering who I was going to talk to at that time of night. To be continued

Breathing

Saturday, September 26, 2009
Over the past few days as you know I have been talking but that means some air doesn't go to my lungs. There have been a few scary times when I couldn't get enough air to breath. Every time it happened everybody ran around in circles until the air was restored. It got me thinking that our breath is in God's hand. Isaiah 42:1-5 Behold my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my Spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations. He will not cry aloud or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street; a bruised reed he will not break, and a faintly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice. He will not grow faint or be discouraged till he has established justice in the earth; and the coastlands wait for his law. Thus says God, the LORD, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it: -I can't think of anyone I would rather have holding my breath.

The minister's cat is a learning* cat *with help

Friday, September 25, 2009
I remember the summer I learned to ride my bike. We did not have training wheels. I tried it on the back alley. I did not succeed. That night I went to bed sobbing "I'll never learn to ride that stupid bike." The next day my mother made a picnic lunch . My three cousins, my mom and I went down to the meadows for the day. The roads were dirt and very smooth. My cousins took turns running along side me as I rode on the smooth dirt. Just before lunch my cousin Wayne hollered "slow down, I can't keep up" and I realized I was riding my bike. After lunch we spent the afternoon riding along all the meadow roads (no car traffic) That night as I went to bed and marvelled at how easy it was to ride a bike. Now I am learning to talk again. At first I thought I'd never get the hang of it but today it seems almost natural. I think my Older Brother was running along side. Matthew 11:28-30

Roar

Thursday, September 24, 2009
I am a lion, hear me roar! After a month of silence they have deflated the cuff and I can talk. It's not very pretty but I can talk. I was not a very patient patient but the result was worth waiting for. It always seems the best is worth waiting for. I tried singing hymns but my singing voice has not yet returned. Now at least people can understand me although I can only say about five words at a time and then have to wait. (his cuff was deflated for an hour trial run, and they will do the same tomorrow)
I really enjoy reading all the blog comments but some are anonymous. I can figure out who you are if you drop a hint like a first name in your message but thank you for all your kind thoughts and prayers. I read them every day and think about them every night as the song goes- you pray for me, I'll pray for you and we'll pray together as we go marching on. I look forward to reading more in the future
Love the ministerscatjohn

Progress

Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Each day John's iv blood pressure medication is being decreased. He seems to be tolerating this although he does have a mini crisis after sitting up for awhile. Each day is better than the previous one. They also took off his PEEP today. Pray that his lungs will tolerate this. This is in preparation for talking which is something to which he is very much looking forward.

Helpful Staff

Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Last night John spent the evening listening to the Canucks exhibition game. It is a fun thing he can do and the staff are very obliging about getting his radio and turning it on for him. Last night their timing wasn't so great as they decided it was time to cough and suction him just before the game ended. For you non-hockey fans that was when the Canucks scored the tying goal and went on to win. John found out the next morning. He was happy to have listened to most of the game anyways.
As an update on the CAT scan they didn't find anything so we are thankful for that. God is full of good gifts. A friend from Powell River was down for tests and stopped in to see John today. He sat up in his wheelchair and today they turned him around so he could look outside and see the sunshine-it is quite a procedure to turn the wheelchair around as there are so many cords and tubes. The staff all try to make things interesting for John

Low Blood Pressure

Monday, September 21, 2009
Today the staff are starting to be a bit more aggressive treating John's low blood pressure. The ICU doctor that first looked after him when he came to the step down unit is back (they rotate through the unit) and I think he wants to see something happen. His nurse is also carefully monitoring everything. I trust that focusing can help solve this problem. Today he was up and with careful monitoring he sat quite far up. The days can be quite long but he enjoys listening to the radio and cd's

Safe in the Arms of Jesus

Sunday, September 20,2009
Safe in the Arms of Jesus. I move from my bed to the chair or back. I lie there and trust three people to move me from one place to the other without falling. That reminded me of Deut. 32:27 "The eternal God is my refuge and underneath are the everlasting arms" but that is only one pair of arms. Moving to the New Testament John 10:28,29 now we have two pairs of hands and Jesus' assurance that no one can pluck me from the Father's hand so I am safe in the arms of Jesus and my heavenly Father

The Lottery?

Saturday, September 19, 2009
Win the lottery or Proverbs 3:5,6? Yesterday I had a visit from the nurse specialist. She told me of a new way to handle my breathing, sort of a pacemaker for the diaphragm. She told me that it is very expensive and there is a 10 person trial and they have done 6. There are 4 spaces left and if I got one it wouldn't cost me a thing. When she told me this my heart started to beat faster. I began to calculate the odds of getting one of the four spots. Just as I was getting all excited I remembered Proverbs 3:5,6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. I realized that I have never won a lottery but that God promised that he would direct all my paths and I have proven this over and over. He has never failed so good bye lottery and I will stick to Proverbs 3:5,6

One Month

Friday, September 18, 2009
Today Laverne told me it had been a month. To me it seems more like one day over and over but the one thing that is common to each day is casting my cares upon the Lord Isaiah 26:3. Whether it is one day, one month, or longer I know he cares for me 1 Peter 5:7
People have been asking about visiting. John is very happy to have visitors. Don't plan on staying more than half an hour as he tires quickly.

Perspective

Thursday, September 17, 2009
Half full or half empty? After my trip for the CAT scan I did not get up in my wheel chair that day. I was feeling like nothing was ever going to progress then the physio came. I think I must have shown her how I felt. She set me right, most patients struggle with bad cases of pneumonia and I had a mild case so I realized I was expecting too much. the situation is the same today but my perspective has changed. The same thing happened when I read Romans 8:28-32. God is so good.

More Tests

Wednesday, September 16, 2009
I've made two trips from my room this week, one for an ultra sound, the other for a CAT scan. It seems the doctor wants to gather as much information as possible. I hope that he can do something with it! I would like to start with talking and graduate to moving the wheelchair.
I really missed Laverne when she was gone but I had a visit from my former doctor Tom, as well as Marsha and Katie. I still feel tired a lot of the time. Pray for me

Tests

Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Sorry to all you who were looking for a post last night. I am in PR right now and forgot that I had disconnected the internet so couldn't post from there in the evening. John went for an ultrasound today. It is quite a procession with him, the porter, the nurse and a respiratory therapist plus his ventilator and IV's. Some of his blood work wasn't quite what they wanted so they are doing some more exploration. Tomorrow he is off for a CAT scan. We will keep you posted when we hear of any results. Laverne

Grandma

Monday, September 14, 2009
I woke thinking of my grandmother. Most of what I know of her I learned from my dad. When she was a small girl, about 8 years old Grandma went to work in the mines. Her job was to sit beside a door for 12 hours a day and open the door when the horse-drawn ore-cart came by. My Grandma was always cheerful when I met her. My grandfather was a bricklayer and took my grandma out from the mines and across the sea to Canada. She is an example of what perseverance really means.

Nancy

Sunday, September 13, 2009
Tonight as I lay in bed Iwas thinking of Frank Sinatra, old blue eyes. He sang a song for his daughter Nancy called Nancy of the laughing eyes. My nurse tonight is Nancy and she has eyes that twinkle with laughter. What a special gift for a caregiver!

Kum Ba Yah

Saturday, September 12, 2009
Last night I laid on my bed with the lights low, but not ready to sleep. My thoughts drifted to a time over 30 years ago when we gathered on the shore of a lake in Manitoba. I was at a Navigator training program. As we gathered around the campfire John Potts took out his guitar and we sang Kum Ba Yah. As I looked into the stars I felt God truly would Kum Ba Yah. Tonight on my bed again I have the same feeling - God is here. When I read my New Testament I see so many instances where Jesus came by people with needs. Yesterday Laverne read John 5. I had chosen it because of v39 but as she read it I was struck by the story of the invalid at the pool of Bethesda. What an example of Kum Ba Yah.

Steps

Friday, September 11,2009
Two steps forward, one step back. I was all excited about starting to talk this week. They had put me on room air in preparation for deflating my cuff (around the tube of the tracheostomy). Mr. P reared his ugly head but "I've got confidence God is going to see me through".

Progress

Thursday, september 10,2009

Well they did find bugs growing in John's sputum so he is on antibiotics. Pray that this will clear quickly. This week for the first time since the accident John felt me hold his hand and stroke his arm. He said it felt like pins and needles. After 32 years I still can electrify him. Seriously, it is great that some feeling is starting to come back. They are working on his breathing as well. He is just on room air and they have made other adjustments to his ventilator. We are looking forward to other signs of progress soon and as they happen they will be posted.
Continue to pray about his blood pressure. It continues to dip when he sits up. Sitting up has to be done in stages with the wheelchair tilted right back and then brought to an upright position in stages with little rests in between.

Continuous Care

Wednesday, September 9, 2009
I woke up this morning with three people around me. They were busy coughing, suctioning, and turning me. The nurse came with medications and then a bed bath, physio and a lot of other things.
Afterwards I lay thinking about it all. Continuous Care. It reminded me of a swimming pool I saw in Africa. It had been built for the Pan Africa games. After the games were over the show piece was no longer needed. They stopped taking care of it. It was cracked, only half full and covered in green slime. I wonder what I would look like if the care stopped. Probably much worse. thank the Lord for a dedicated team of continuous care givers. John
Today they decided that John has a bit of pneumonia. Please pray as they want to treat this agressively as possible but not give antibiotics unless absolutely necessary Laverne

Talking with John

Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Talking with John takes a good deal of patience and perseverence on the part of him and the person with whom he is talking. At this time on the ventilator he cannot use his voice box as the air goes straight from his neck into his lungs. This means that although his lips form the words no sound comes out. Did you know that sounds as different as "f"' and "n" look pretty much the same when there is no sound to go along with the shape of the lips? We get on a roll for a while and can have quite a conversation but John has quite a vocabulary and doesn't just stick to one or two syllable words and it is easy to get lost. When nothing else works then we spell out words but even that doesn't always work as I don't always get the right letter. At that point I ask if it is in the first or second half of the alphabet and then run through the letters until he nods at the right one. Either that or he says "that's okay, it doesn't really matter". It is really hard if he is trying to tell a joke. However mostly we persevere and have good conversations and lots of laughs.

Contest

Monday, September 7, 2009
What does the ministers cat look like? Send a picture to piechnikster@gmail.com .
As you can probably tell John is full of ideas. His spirits are good. He is trusting in the Lord with all his heart. The days go by slowly but there is so much for which to be thankful. His care is so good and the staff are quick to respond to his needs.

Visitors

Sunday, September 6, 2009
The minister's cat is a hilarious cat. Laverne already wrote about the great Burnaby Street race. Now I want to tell you about Nan and Alex. Alex does not say very much instead he laughs with his eyes. Nan is a great story teller. She used to be a nurse in a spinal cord unit and told me about her first bed to wheelchair transfer. She had to climb up on the bed and then had a fit of the giggles. The equipment today is much better. Having visitors is so much fun. "With Jesus in the boat, I can smile at the storm, laugh at the storm, roar at the storm, as we go sailing home."

Wheel Chair

Saturday, September 5, 2009
This is the third day John has sat up in a wheel chair. Each day he has tolerated it better with less of a drop in his blood pressure and stayed up for a longer period of time. His chair is specially adjusted for him and is his alone for as long as he is in VGH. So far he hasn't made any journeys as he is hooked up to so many things but the occupational therapist told him the next week they would start moving. Right now there is a red N new driver, no moving without an OT sign on the back of his chair. A special friend, Rick, from Powell River visited today and they were setting up a wheel chair race down Burnaby St. when John gets back to PR

Serving

Friday, September 4, 2009
My tongue stretches for the call bell. It is six in the morning and my eyebrow itches. The night nurse comes and we spend time communicating. Finally her eyes light up. we both laugh and she scratches my forehead. The day begins. Turns, bath, coughs. As I lie in a moment of peace I remember that after supper Jesus took off his outer garment and washed the disciples feet (John 13) Eugene Peterson wrote a book Christ plays in 10,000 places (from a poem of Geraard Manley Hopkins) Today He was here.

Night

Thursday, September 3, 2009.

"Last night I lay awake and thought. I know so many people but I don't think of them often, so last night I thought and prayed for many of them. God loves them and so we talked of them in the night. Psalm 119:145-152. The days are too busy to pray. Thank God for the night!"

Confidence

Wednesday, September 2, 2009.

"I've got confidence. Thirtyfive years ago my friend got out of the infamous 'Hanoi Hilton'. He is a singer and sang of confidence in God. Today "I've got confidence, God is going to see me through". I don't know how, but he will. "
Please pray that as they continue to decrease his medication that John's blood pressure will remain high.

Stats

Tuesday, September 1, 2009.

From John
"This morning they parked me so I could see all the stats on the monitor. The people looking after me are using them to get a good picture of my health. My heavenly father does not need stats, He knows all about me Psalm 139:13-15 but his helpers use the stats and know more about me then I do"

Chair

Monday, August 31, 2009.

For the past two days John has been sitting up in a chair for 4-6 hours and has tolerated it well.
Today he says "Yesterday I asked for a sleeping pill. I slept well but still feel drowsey. I spent a lot of time thinking about Psalms 45. One of my nurses has worked here for 22 years. I am in good hands and in God's hands.

From John himself

Sunday, August 30, 2009

I am glad that so many friends have been sharing this blog. I can't say much but I am learning to trust in Jesus. I can't do anything for myself, I have a great group of people to do everything and underneath are the everlasting arms.

John

Progressing

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Today John was in good spirits and was sitting up in bed. He is hoping to be sitting in a chair soon. This has not been possible yet because his blood pressure goes down when he sits up. Pray that his blood pressure will increase. He has enjoyed his visitors over the past few days and John makes sure that they all sign his guest book.

F.R.O.G.

Friday, August 28, 2009.

Today John startled his visitors when he called himself a frog. We were relieved to realize that he meant he was Fully Relying On God. He enjoyed his visitors and the cards that he has received so far. He appreciates your prayers and support. Johns temperature went down and for the first time since ICU he required a blanket to keep warm.

Anniversary

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Laverne and John celebrated their 32nd anniversary with a beautiful bouquet from Kelly Creek Community Church. They both agreed that although this accident was not what they would have chosen, it has brought them closer together. John had more visitors today and has enjoyed this change.

Visitors

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

In the middle of the night John moved to the step down clinic as his bed was needed. He is enjoying his new room which is brighter and he is able to use a call bell with his tongue. Today he saw Mark and Sue, friends from Powell River and afterward commented that he would like visitors for short periods of time. He continues to need medication to keep his blood pressure elevated, but his fever has subsided.

Out of ICU tomorrow

Today the doctor wrote orders for John to be transferred to the 'step down care area' on the spinal cord unit - a transitional place between ICU and the main ward. Most people with this kind of injury spend 2 - 3 weeks in ICU, but it was just 1 week ago today that John sustained his injury. Thank-you for praying.

Laverne arrived back from her quick trip to Powell River early this afternoon and soon after her return Laverne and Eleanor spent time with the Clinical Nurse Specialist from the spinal cord unit who outlined the days ahead. As soon as John no longer needs medications to keep his blood pressure up they will get him up in a wheelchair. When his pneumonia is cleared they will begin to make some changes in his airway so that he can learn to talk again. Once he is talking then he will learn to eat. These are the major goals for the first 4 - 6 weeks. Please keep praying

When Laverne went back to the hospital this evening along with Robin, John's brother who arrived in Vancouver this afternoon, they were told that the transition to the step down unit will take place at 7:00 am tomorrow morning.

Questions

Sunday, August 23, 2009

It was nice to see that today John was able to ask the doctor questions on his own by mouthing the words. Although the answers were not particularly encouraging about regaining function, it was good for him to be able to communicate directly with the doctor. Laverne was there for most of the day, but flew to Powell River this afternoon to sort out some details at home - she'll be back in a few days. John's fever is still quite high, and he is still needing medications to keep his blood pressure up. Although he is gradually improving, he is still too tired to have visitors - but during the long weeks and months ahead this will change. It is evident that his strength to face each day is derived from the bedrock truth that has been so much a part of his life - that his heavenly Father cares deeply about him and will continue to give strength for whatever lies ahead.

Longer short term memory

Saturday, August 22, 2009

This song John requested that we sing by his bedside. We had to print out the words but he mouthed them without any trouble and knows them by heart.

Day by day, and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father's wise bestowment,
I've no cause for worry or for fear.
He, whose heart is kind beyond all measure,
Gives unto each day what He deems best,
Lovingly its part of pain and pleasure,
Mingling toil with peace and rest.

Every day the Lord Himself is near me,
With a special mercy for each hour;
All my cares He fain would bear and cheer me,
He whose name is Counsellor and Pow'r.
The protection of His child and treasure
Is a charge that on Himself He laid;
"As thy days, thy strength shall be in measure,"
This the pledge to me He made.

Help me then, in every tribulation,
So to trust Thy promises, O Lord,
That I lose not faith's sweet consolation,
Offered me within Thy holy Word.
Help me, Lord, when toil and trouble meeting,
E'er to take, as from a father's hand,
One by one, the days, the moments fleeting,
Till with Christ the Lord I stand.

John is becoming more aware of what is going on in ICU, looking around and asking questions. He asked that Laverne read him Psalm 45. His memory is improving - he was able to tell his nephew that he had an accident on his bike.

The ICU doctor said John is doing well and does not think the pneumonia is too serious, and he is not needing as much medication to maintain his blood pressure.