The Happiest New Year

From Emily:

This is truly a happy time as we ring in the new year. I (along with everyone else) have been so thankful for Dad and having him here to ring in 2012. I have actually sighed in relief when I think of this as we spend time with him in the sitting room. Dad says it feels really good to be home finally.

Dad is inspiring. Through this whole ordeal, he has not complained once or made one statement of self-pity. He has kept his spirits up and I think being home will help strengthen and encourage him. Please keep praying. I know Dad appreciates this. Pray hard for his swallowing and that he will soon pass his swallow test. Pray also for his endurance. Right now he is walking down the hallway and back, then needs to rest. It is a long journey to recovery, but the Lord is able. He hears our prayers.

First day at home

Blessed is the people whose God is the Lord!  Psalms 144:15b

Our day started a little later today rather than with the usual wake up call by the nurse assistant needing to take vitals at 5:30 a.m.  It has taken a bit of adjustment to get used to not having all the handicapped facitilies that we have been used to in the hospital.  A good part of the morning was taken up with the home health nurse assessing Hu's needs and checking his wounds.  It looks like we will have a busy schedule for the coming weeks with three different therapists and a nurse coming periodically during the week.  We are thankful for the opportunity which will allow the therapy to be done at home rather than travelling to numerous appointments while he recovers.

We feel blessed by the Lord and by you our friends.

Graduation

His way is perfect, for all His ways are just:  A God of faithfulness and without injustice, righteous and upright is He.  Deut. 32:4

To the clapping and cheers of health care workers Hu received his certificate of graduation from rehab today.  It is such a blessing to have him at home.  We thank the Lord for His healing hand on him during these last seven weeks.

During part of Hu's hospitalization we were thankful for the provision of having our sons David, John, and James with us.  We were also blessed one weekend to have our daughter-in-law, Emily, with granddaughter, Hannah, manage the details of our home.  Our other daughters-in-law, Lisa and Christa, who live overseas, took care of extra responsibilities for the children and ministry while their husbands joined us.  Just in time for Hu to be released from the hospital, James, Emily, and Hannah returned to assist us with the tranistion home.  This is huge for me because James works in the medical field and is able to bridge the gap between the vigilance of the hospital staff and my lack of medical expertise. 

The words of the song "Great is Thy Faithfulness" have been going through my head today.  What a faithful God we serve.

His Plans

Proverbs 16:3-4  Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. The LORD works out everything to its proper end...

I enjoy spontaneity but I do best when I plan ahead.  In November we were scheduled to help to care for our grandchildren for two weeks and then Hu's surgery came up unexpectedly and changed our plans.  We committed his hospitalization to the Lord before surgery.  However, never did we dream what a long and difficult path that would be.  Even though this is not what we would have chosen we know "The Lord works out everything to its proper end...". 

Please pray especially for the following items as Hu looks forward to his tranistion home:

• His swallowing has improved although he was not able to pass the test yesterday  (also continue to remember Garren as well)
• He has two significant wounds that will take months to heal
• He continues to work on endurance for basic activities

Thank you so much for your ongoing prayers for Hu and our family.

 

  

Looking Ahead

Philippians 3:13,14

But this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Some things about our government irritate us at times. The rules they make sometimes seem to do more harm than good. However, many laws that govern health care are to our advantage. It is required that we be informed and we appreciate the information received in the preliminary talks with the Social Worker. Certain benchmarks have to be met for Hu to qualify for different levels of rehab and care. They have been very good at explaining our options.

It appears that Hu will be discharged soon. Some professional care will be provided in the home as far as we know at this time, but the family is expected to perform much of the necessary care. There are many things to consider, so please pray with us as we face and make the decisions. We want to be wise and practical in doing the things that will help Hu regain his strength and coordination.

The verse quoted above is speaking of spiritual perfection. While we are seeking improvement for Hu’s physical strength, we want to be sure that we take care of our spiritual welfare as well. Looking back helps us to mark progress as we move forward, far from those long days spent in intensive care.

How was your Christmas?

But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 
Matt. 6:33

I've been amazed today by the numerous inquires by folks as to "How was your Christmas?"  It seems to be a common greeting and one that the expected reply is how did you spent your day and how was the food?  It is so easy to get caught up in that trap of considering things of this world to be so important in our lives that we miss the main reason of why we celebrate Christmas.

We were touched to have some visitors yesterday (knowing they were coming) I said to Hu, "Who goes to visit people in the hospital on Christmas?"  It just hasn't been something that had crossed my mind to do.  I was amazed at the families that had multiple generations gather together for a time of celebration here in rehab bringing gifts and a meal to share.  No doubt there were others though that were alone during the day.

One thing that has been an example to me during Hu's hospitalization has been the many ways that people have found to be an encouragement and help to us.  What a blessing that has been!

Hu has had a bit of a lighter day with physical therapy today. However, he seems to be gaining endurance day by day. Tomorrow morning he has a swallow test so we will appreciate your prayers for that.  His weight continues to be an issue so remember that in your prayers, as well, that as he regains his strength his weight will also be restored.

"It's what we do for Christ in the here and now that will make a difference in the then and there."  Max Lucado

HE IS BORN!

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.  Luke 2:14

Last night Hu and I read Luke 2 together and remembered once again the details of the story of our Lord's birth that we celebrate today.  What a miracle that was and how thankful we are that he came in human form as baby.

Hu and I are grateful for the medical miracle that we have seen in his life in recent weeks and that we are able to spend this day together. We thank the Lord for the medical personnel who are graciously serving us today while away from their family and friends.

We are so thankful for you as you have faithfully followed us and prayed for us.

Merry Christmas and may God bless you.

A Meaningful Tradition

Traditions are an important part of a family.  One of the our most significant Christmas traditions has been making and using Chrismons.  The word is a contraction of Christ and monogram.  They are Christan symbols which remind us of some attribute of Christ which along with small white lights are the only decorations on our Christmas tree.  Many years ago my mother introduced us to the concept of Chrismons and it has made our Christmas celebration more meaningful as we focus on Christ, the real meaning of Christmas.

I am grateful to be able to spend another Christmas with Hu after his difficult medical journey during these recent weeks.  We feel blessed that his health is gradually improving and that he has the opportunity to continue in rehab.

Our prayer for you today is whatever your family traditions are that your focus will be on Christ, Emmauel, God with us.

A Special Gift

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus or Lord. 
Rom. 6:23

Soon after Thanksgiving we received an email from Garren our great-nephew saying that he couldn't imagine anyone being in the hospital over Christmas and asking if Uncle Hu might have space in his hospital room for a small Christmas tree.  That brought tears to my eyes because at age 13 last February Garren experienced a ruptured AVM at the base of his brain.  Needless to say he was hospitalized for weeks following two surgeries and has endured ongoing tests and therapy since that time.  Even after all that he wanted to reach out to someone who was experiencing a difficult time medically.  Uncle Hu was touched by Garren's visit with his mom, Nancy as they brought that special gift to him.

Today Hu walked for the longest time in several days.  His therapy was very intense but he has been blessed with great therapists who have been encouraging and also stretched his endurance.  Day by day his body is getting stronger and that is what he needs for his wounds to heal.  He has lost a considerable amount of weight so pray that it might be restored.

On Sunday we are celebrating God's special gift to us of His son.  Usually people who are famous and noteworthy are born with great celebration and in the best of conditions.  How ironic that the God of the universe chose to send His son to be born in the lowliest of conditions--a stable and laid in a feeding trough for animals.  Then He was crucified and rose on the third day and now sits on the right hand of God.  He awaits the arrival of those that have chosen Him as their Savior.  What a wonderful gift we celebrate this Christmas!

Useless Worry

We would ask for your continued prayers for Hu and his sister, Barbara. Both have had a very difficult day medically.
 
There are two days in the week that we must never worry about.  One of them is yesterday.  Some people worry about past failures and mistakes when usually there is absolutely nothing that can be done about them.  It is far better to ask God for grace to forget.  This was Paul's method:  "Forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before"  (Philippians 3:13).  Profit by your mistakes but never brood over them.  Learn from the unhappy experiences, but put them behind you forever.

In addition to yesterday, we should not worry about tomorrow.  Jesus said, "Take therefore no thought for the morrow."  This means that we are not to give anxious thought to worrying about it.  Tomorrow belongs to God.  If we worry about it, there is the danger of anticipating things that will never happen.  Our fears will be ungrounded.  The expected calamities will not come. The rest of the days are either yesterdays or tomorrows.  We need only face the responsibilities of one day at a time, while being assured in Deuteronomy 33:25, "As thy days, so shall thy strength be."  From this promise, it is obvious that the Lord doles out sufficient care for every situation; so we need never worry.

We need to realize that our God is a great God.  He is Jehovah-jireh, which means "The Lord will provide."  It matters not as to the extent of the need, God's promise never fails.


Dr. J. Allen Blair - Copied by permission

Perfect Peace

You will keep Him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.  Isaiah 26:3

"Peace on earth, good will to men" is a familiar refrain that we hear during the Christmas season.  How much peace did you experience today in the hustle and bustle of life? What a special opportunity we Christians have to represent Jesus in a world of turmoil as we rely on the peace that only He can give to us.

Hu experienced a tough day today.  He says he felt like he ran a marathon.  Even though his body is so tired he continues to have God's peace in his life.

In His Hands

God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
2 Timothy 1:7

As I think of many people in the Bible who faced bad situations I remember where they put their trust as they had those experiences.  Noah as he built the ark, David as he faced Goliath, Daniel in the lions' den, Joshua as he marched around Jericho, Paul as he was in prison and numerous others put their lives in God's hands for wisdom and protection. 

When Hu started his original blog before his medical journey he put God in control of the experience that was to come.  It has been his desire through it all that God woud be glorified through it.

Jesus was the one who suffered more than any human and although he knew what His journey would be like He still chose to come as a baby born of a young virgin.

No matter what we are facing as believers in the Lord Jesus we can rely on the fact that " God has not given us a spirit of fear".

Hu continues to work hard in his therapy sessions even though breathing is often difficult.  We are thankful to see progress each week and the Lord gives him the strength he needs for each new day. 

We would also appreciate your prayers for his sister, Barbara who was hospitalized this past weekend with fluid on her lungs. We trust that the doctors will be able to give her a diagonsis soon.

Encouragement from the Lord

Last night as I was leaving rehab to attend our life group I asked Hu if he had any prayer requests. He said, “Yes, I need encouragement from the Lord that I am improving”. I mentioned that to the group and this morning I received a special email from one of our friends in the group who has been faithfully praying for us. I would like to share part of it with you.

Psalm 103:1-5
1 Let all that I am praise the Lord;
with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name.
2 Let all that I am praise the Lord;
may I never forget the good things he does for me.
3 He forgives all my sins
and heals all my diseases.
4 He redeems me from death
and crowns me with love and tender mercies.
5 He fills my life with good things.
My youth is renewed like the eagle’s!

I know Hu is looking for encouragement from the Lord. In my experience, when you’re feeling bad, it’s hard to feel encouraged until you actually start feeling better. Perhaps it will be easier for Hu to be encouraged by looking back instead of forward? Looking back, he’ll see Jesus’ love and presence throughout his life and this medical journey.

• V2: Think of all the “Good Things”: (you, your boys and their families, your friends and church family, the many daily blessings)

• V3: Remember the greatest gift we’ve all received: Forgiveness of his sins

• V3/4: Healing & Redemption from Death: Think on all he’s experienced thus far. Not too long ago Hu was in ICU - how and we were all uncertain we’d get more time with him on this side of eternity. What a praise!

• V4: Love and tender mercies: You’ve mentioned many times that the caregivers you interact with have worked with loving devotion on Hu. You’re now able to stay by Hu’s side and both get rest and have the comfort of each other’s presence, he’s been able to move some and had several great days with big physical accomplishments.

I hope that looking back, you and Hu will both find some of the encouragement you need to keep moving forward. The road to full recovery is long and the end probably doesn’t seem like it’s in sight (and maybe it’s not for now), but perhaps the encouragement you need each day is to remember that Jesus has been next to you every step of the way to this point. Satan wants us to forget this and does what he can to make us feel overwhelmed but God is bigger and wants you to be encouraged!

How blessed we are to have this friend and so many others that have come along side us in this time of need. We thank the Lord for each of you!

Sherril Harrill

IN THE WELL

Then took they Jeremiah, and cast him into the dungeon of Malchiah the son of Hammelech, that was in the court of the prison: and they let down Jeremiah with cords. And in the dungeon there was no water, but mire: so Jeremiah sunk in the mire (Jeremiah 38:6).

We’ve become all too familiar with our surroundings at the hospital. The parking attendants, the servers in the food court, the janitor who drives the cleaning machine in the hall ways, and the host of care givers of all descriptions.

But, just sitting or lying in a hospital room is quiet another experience. Hu doesn’t see all those people just mentioned, but he does see fixtures on the wall, placed there for his benefit. There are lights, buttons, connectors, electronic gadgets, tubes, and cables, some of which tether him from time to time.

Jeremiah must have sat at the bottom of that well thinking, “How did I get myself into such a fix?” We think the same…how did Hu get into such a fix? That’s a fair question. Neither of them turned away from God. There was water contained in the muck and mire, but no water that Jeremiah could drink--and Hu can’t swallow although water is readily available! They used cords to put Jeremiah down into the hole in the ground; the nurses connect Hu to cords limiting his movements.

But, this is not the end of the story. Read on… Ebedmelech the Ethiopian heard about Jeremiah’s plight and he begged the king for help! Here’s where you, our prayer partners, enter the scene. Please pray for Hu’s deliverance from the well of complex health issues which he continues to experience.

Weary?

Take My yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  Matthew 11:29

What a special promise from the Lord that He will take care of us even when there are many demands around us if we will just rest in Him. Usually folks feel the pressue of too much to do especially during the Christmas season. 

We thank those of you who have sent prayer requests to us so that we can be praying with you about them. 

Again today Hu's body is quite weak and he had to leave his therapy session early to rest.  Please continue to pray for strength for him.  It is difficult when he wants to move ahead but isn't physically up to it.  I shared today's verse with Him and we'll meditate on it throughout today as we find our rest in the Lord and I hope it will be an encouragement to you as well.

Too many trees!

Be strong and courageous.   Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you;  he will never leave you nor forsake you.  Deuteronomy 31:6

"I can't see the forest for the trees" is a saying that has been around for a while.  Occasionally I feel like that as I accompany Hu along his journey. Just when we think we are getting rid of a tube or bandage something else crops up.

Hu has three wounds that are not healing properly and are being treated regularly.   His body is so weak that it is difficult for them to heal.  Please pray with us that they will look much better soon as the possibility of his discharge approaches.

He worked very hard in therapy today (since he hit a low point yesterday) in order that he doesn't lose what he has gained thus far.  I can see the struggle that he goes through when he is asked if he can do "one more exercise" but he pushes forward as he awaits the opportunity to relax afterwards.

Hu's prayer last night was asking the Lord that he would not focus on his own health but on those in need around us.  We would welcome the opportunity to pray for you and your special concerns as well.  Feel free to drop us an email and share your requests with us at sherrilh@earthlink.net.  We'd be happy to remember you in prayer. 

CHANGING FACES

2 Corinthians 12:18
I urged Titus to go, and I sent the brother with him. Titus did not take any advantage of you, did he? Did we not conduct ourselves in the same spirit and walk in the same steps?

Medical personnel have to have vacations, sick leave, days off, and holidays just like the rest of us. We must admit, however, we do get rather comfortable with the staff, and have to make mental adjustments when new technicians, nurses, and other workers enter the room.

Adapting to them also gives opportunities to show them to whom we belong. Just like the folks we’ve met in other places (like the elevator), we have been given this journey for a purpose. The verse above is about when Paul sent Titus and the folks in Corinth were a bit miffed because they wanted the familiar face of Paul! We need to be flexible too.

What a blessing it is to have people who excel in their work and who also really care about the patients. Thank the Lord with us for His provision.

The last 24 hours have been filled with challenges for Hu. Please continue to pray specifically for strength! The entire family appreciates your interest and especially your prayer support

A Missing Tool!

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  Philippians 4:6

Have you ever needed to do a job and couldn't find the right tool so you improvised using something else but the job just didn't turn out the same as if you had found the proper tool?  Looking back on yesterday that is what happened to me.  I was discouraged and needed direction about how to prepare for the time when Hu will be released from rehab.  My "tools" yesterday were requests for prayer to friends and family.  While prayer is a good thing it wasn't the right "tool" for the moment.  I should have first taken my concerns to the Lord for His direction and then sought prayer and counsel from others.


This morning the Lord brought to my mind that He does not give us more than we can handle (with His help).  It is amazing the peace and encouragement the Lord has given today in ways that I didn't expect.  I was also wondering what people do who are facing difficult issues without the Lord's help.  What a blessing it has been to know that He loves me and cares about every detail in my life. Your prayers are being answered for Hu and our family.

Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

Psalm 139:14

I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well.

Most of us have not considered what it takes for a human being to survive, much less what it really takes to accomplish work or recreation.

Through this experience we have gained knowledge about the body we never would have otherwise.  If there’s a part or zone that malfunctions, the rest of the body is affected.  We have seen the importance of all parts, from the tiny hair like parts in the lungs that exchange oxygen to the large muscles in the back and shoulders.

Hu has made remarkable progress, but we are not on top of the mountain yet, so, please continue to pray for him.  Seeing him transformed from a deep sleep to standing and playing tennis and baseball on the Wii is a wonder.

Stamina continues to be an issue.  The lack of adequate lung function starves the body of needed oxygen and causes Hu to tire easily.

All of this reminds us that we are not in control.  We didn’t put the body together in the first place and as good as the medical profession is, and as much as we appreciate them, we are still in need God’s help!

Thank you for caring and thank you for praying.

A Gift from God

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.  Psalm 118:24

God has done so much for us.  Our family is encouraged and thankful for the improvement that we have seen in Hu's health recently.  In the hospital I've seen so many people who suffer from long term conditions and and it makes me count my blessings and have compassion for them.

You may recall we asked for prayer back in February for our great nephew, Garren.  He
suffered a ruptured Arterial Venus Malformation (AVM).  He has made amazing strides in his recovery which truly is a miracle but among other difficulties he still suffers from not being able to swallow.  That is tough at any age but I would think at 14 it must really be hard.  I encourage you to pray for Garren and check out his story at www.geoffreyjanes.com.

Hu is able to relate a bit more now to Garren's situation since he did not pass his swallow test today. We know this isn't a surprise to God and it is all part of His plan.  Please pray for Garren and for Hu that this ability would be restored to them.

"Our God is Able!"

For nothing is impossible with God.  Luke 1:37

I was reminded of the song "Our God is Able" by a friend of mine in an email today.  How thankful we are to know that we serve a great God who does miracles beyond what we even dream.

Our family has been blessed by you who faithfully have shared Bible truths and prayed for us as we continue with Hu in this journey.

This is the first Sunday we have spent in rehab.  It has been a relaxing day for Hu, an opportunity to focus on what God has done in his life, catch up on his rest, as well as work on some of his exercises.

Tuesday is our next milestone when he will be re-evaluated by the staff and find out how much longer he can expect to be in rehab.

One step at a time

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  Philippians 4:6

Hu had a very light day with therapy today.  It gives his body a chance to rest and him the opportunity to relax although he has homework he has been working on in his room.

From Hu: "Thanks for your continued prayers for endurance in my recovery process."

Why are we here?

Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders you have done.  The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare.  Psalm 40:5

A month ago Hu checked into the hospital for his surgery which was supposed to be a 3-4 day stay.  Now he is in rehab.  Today he commented, "I should be progressing faster than this".  I reminded him how far he has come but I'm sure it is hard to comprehend when he feels so weak. 

This morning an extended family member sent me an email and in closing said "I believe you're still there for somebody".  That was a thought I hadn't considered.  We look at the medical steps it will take for Hu to be released but it is easy to forget about the plan that God has for his release.  Pray for us to have patience and be faithful in sharing with those that are part of God's plan. 

Tomorrow Hu has a very light day in rehab with only one hour of physical therapy.  Of course, in each session he is given plenty of "homework" to keep him busy over the weekend.  Pray with us that his body will continue to be strengthened.   We know why we are here--this is a part of  the tapestry that God is weaving in our lives--we see all the difficulties (strings) but he sees the finished product.

His hands

Praise the Lord, O my soul and forget not all his benefits--who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.  Psalm 103:13

"God does the healing, I am His hands" is what one of our nurses told us.  How true that is!  We are grateful for all the medical help that Hu has received but in the end it would have been to no avail without God's intervention.

Our family has been blessed with good health so Hu's hospitalization has been quite an experience for us.  I thought that when he became a patient the total focus of the medical people attending would be on him and rightly so.  However, I was really surprised to see how interested they have been in my well being by answering my unending questions, insuring my comfort and checking to see that I got sufficient rest.  Pleasant and encouraging medical staff have made a difficult situation bearable for us.  The personal touches like a recliner with a warm blanket for me, the nurse that called me in the waiting room to "come right away--he opened his eyes and is following commands" (when he had been sedated) and the night nurse who told me you can call anytime during the night.

Today Hu reached another milestone when the trach was removed.  That seemed like his reward for all the effort he put into the day's tedious therapy sessions.  In spite of his weak body he continues to work hard toward regaining his strength.

We prayed for the medical staff before we arrived at the hospital and the Lord has answered our prayers abundantly as we have benefited from their care as an extension of His hands.

Grateful for the little things

In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind. Job 12:10

I have been thinking about all the little things that I take for granted.  Bathing, dressing, breathing, eating and countless others. Often I believe that I feel I am entitled to these things as a part of life. Today Hu learned how to bathe and dress himself while lying in bed. His breathing is labored and exhausting. We have seen a miracle in his life in recent weeks.  What a great reminder to me that the Lord who has been restoring Hu's health is the same one that allows me to live day by day. I must not take either the gift of life or the giver of life for granted!

No crutches

Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope by grace, comfort and strengthen your hearts in every good word and work.
2 Thess. 2:16, 17

Today was Hu's graduation to Rehab.  It is the step that we have been waiting for - one day closer to his discharge from the hospital.  We are excited for him but it means leaving behind "the crutches" of ICU and the Progressive Unit where he was closely monitored both in the room and at the nurses' desk.  Now we are flying without the monitors.  His breathing remains difficult and very tiring.  It is easier for him to breathe lying on his back but he won't regain his strength that way.  We have only gotten this far through the comfort and strength from the Lord.  As you pray for Hu ask the Lord to help him to rest well tonight even with the difficulty that he experiences and when he is awake during the night that the Lord will give His comfort.


      

Grace and peace

Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 2 Peter 1:2

On our way up the hospital elevator to visit Hu, a woman looked at us and said, "You know, we are all God's children." And then, on her way out, she wished us "grace and peace". That was a rather uncommon greeting, but yet, a great reminder of who we are and what we have access to through a relationship with Jesus Christ - an abundance of grace and peace! Who wouldn't want that?

Hu has been through a great trial over the past few weeks. While experiencing so much pain, the God-given peace that he displays has been such a testimony to me and many others.  I believe the true source of his peace is his knowledge of God and relationship with Jesus, as Lord. It has carried him thus far and kept him from losing hope. Praise God he was "up" (sitting, standing, or walking) for almost 6 hours today!

May we all find an abundance of grace and peace through Jesus Christ our Lord!

A note from Hu

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Phil. 4:4

Here is a note Hu wrote this morning that he wanted us to share:

I don't know where to begin in praising our Savior for His goodness and marvelous grace toward me and my family. I look forward to sharing with you lots of things I have experienced and learned from this journey. Thanks to all of you who have been His mouth, arms, hands and feet in extending His love to us.


Blessings in Him,
Hu


Hu was off the ventilator all night. Today his goal is to sit up for a total of 6 hours. We are rejoicing in his progress!

The Lamb

The next day John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!  John 1:29


The night before Hu's first surgery a "young friend" stopped by and gave Hu a stuffed lamb.  She said, "I know this is so not Hu but I wanted to him to have this.  When I was in college I was into symbolism and hope that he will find meaning in this too".  The purpose of the lamb is to remind us of Jesus, the Lamb of God.  How easy it is to lose sight of the fact that Jesus is always with us whether we "feel" like it or not. The lamb has been in various parts of the hospital as we have moved about from room to room.  I hope you and I both remember today that "the Lamb" is with us.  I think of Peter when he walked on the water toward Jesus and took his eyes off Jesus then he got into trouble.   I need to keep my eyes on Jesus all the time!

This morning Hu sat up in a wheelchair for 2 1/2 hours, worked on his arm exercises and did a little reading.  He continues to be extremely weak and that much exertion wore him out.  The goal by tomorrow evening is for him to sit up a total of 6 hours during a day.  It is amazing what we take for granted.

Thanks for your prayer support.  It has meant so much to our family.

Shocking progress

Jesus replied, "What is impossible for man is possible with God." Luke 18:27

If God was limited in his power to do the things that were physically possible or imaginable for man, then we would have a pretty useless God. I'm so thankful God is not limited in that way, and we can expect him to do the impossible. This morning when the medical staff gathered to discuss Hu's progress they mentioned that they were shocked at how much he has improved in so little time. Praise God for Hu's "shocking" progress!

Today he went for his first walk in over 3 weeks! He walked to the end of the hall (about 40 feet). It took all the strength he had to do that much, and he was out of breath by the end. But, it was a great workout for day #2. The staff here have him on an aggressive plan to get him back on his feet and return to normal life.

Thank you for continuing to pray for Hu's healing and recovery. We look forward to watching God do the impossible and unimaginable!

Day 23 - First full day of "boot camp"

The first day of "boot camp" went well.  Hu was able to get out of bed and to a wheelchair (with assistance) where he sat for about 45 minutes after doing several standing and sitting exercises.  These exercises were done while holding on to a walker while a couple of nurses assisted him.  The therapist seemed pleased with how well he did for his first day of "camp".  He also had a swallow test and practiced talking with a device that they hook up to the tracheostomy.  After a full morning, he spent much of the afternoon snoozing.  Dad continues to write down lots of questions and comments for us and the nurses to read since he is otherwise unable to speak. 

Thanks again for checking in and for your prayers for Hu's recovery! We tell him about each email, phone call, and comment to the blog and he is so appreciative of your support and prayers.  Blessings to you!

Progress!

"I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." (NASB)

Hu has picked out the verse for today! I asked him if he wanted to pick one and he nodded 'Yes'. Then he wrote out on the clipboard, "Phil 4:13". Praise God!

After 20 days in ICU, last night they moved him to a Progressive Recovery Unit.  This is a step between ICU and being in a "regular" room.  However, this is not your typical hospital room.  They call it "boot camp", as the main purpose is to get him moving again and off the ventilator as soon as possible.  After more than 3 weeks in bed he is extremely weak and needs to begin physical therapy as he is able to tolerate it.  At the same time, he is struggling to breathe, so you can imagine the uphill challenge he is facing.  You can see why the verse he picked would be significant to him right now! 

This morning there was a team of no less than 12 medical personnel gathered outside his room to talk about the game plan for the day - including speech therapists, physical therapists, respiratory therapists, nursing staff, and doctors.  They will reconvene like this every day to make a daily plan.

Because the purpose of him being in this unit is to begin therapy as well as to continue resting, Hu is still not able to have visitors.  The care in this unit is on par with the amount of attention he was receiving in ICU.  They plan to begin a "workout" program today.

Siana continues to improve and the doctors say that if all goes well, she may be released as soon as tomorrow.  Christa and Siana will head back home to Cambodia soon thereafter.  Thank you for praying for their situation as well.

We're very excited by these new developments!  Thanks for praying!

Praise the Lord!

We thank the Lord for Hu's successful procedure.  He is back in ICU resting comfortably.  Thank you once again for your prayers.

Leave it at His feet!

Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7

This morning I received an email from a family member, Nancy, whose son, Garren experienced this surgery earlier this year.  She wrote, "The anxiety of the unknown can be tough.  BUT we serve a God who knows all and this is nothing new to him.  So we trust in him and allow him to take the anxiety from us.  I pray for Uncle Hu today and the doctors, nurses and everyone involved for their wisdom and expertise and loving hands.  For you I especially pray for peace and another glimpse of how God is in control of this crazy situation.  It's through his love and peace we keep going."

Later this morning as I was discussing Hu's procedure with his sister, Barbara, she told me how she had changed the way she prays.  Years ago she heard a devotional given by Hu's father-in-law, J. Allen Blair.   He had brought in several different books each with a different title symbolizing prayer requests.  One was "Job" another "Sister's surgery" and others.  He spoke about taking these prayer requests to the Lord and giving them to Him.  After the prayer was finished though he picked up all the books (requests) and took them with him reminding the group that when we pray about something we need to leave it with the Lord knowing that He will care for it.  A great reminder that He is in control.

Prayer changes things

James 5:16-18
The Message (MSG)
"Make this your common practice: Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you can live together whole and healed. The prayer of a person living right with God is something powerful to be reckoned with. Elijah, for instance, human just like us, prayed hard that it wouldn't rain, and it didn't—not a drop for three and a half years. Then he prayed that it would rain, and it did. The showers came and everything started growing again."


According to the blog we've had folks visit from all continents except Antarctica! It's wonderful to know that brothers and sisters in Christ all across the globe (literally!) are lifting up Siana and Hu to the Lord in prayer. What an encouragement this has been to us!

We are thrilled to report that Siana is doing much better today after being medevaced (sp?) to Singapore, where she has received excellent care. Thank you for your prayers. If all goes well, she will be released by the end of the week! We're so thankful for the care she is receiving as well as for her healing. Thank you Lord!

Thank you for your continued prayers for Hu. He continues to be in ICU at this time. He spends most of his day napping. When he is awake he is fully conscious and sharp as a tack. His body is very weak, and he has very little stamina. Yesterday I asked him if he wanted the lights turned off so he could nap some more. He motioned for the clipboard and wrote, "Is it ok for you?" Even on life support he still puts others above himself! What a great example of selflessness!

Tomorrow is a big day for him. He is scheduled for a tracheostomy (a surgically created hole in the front of the neck, which will be connected to the ventilator). Generally the limit with the regular breathing tube is 2 weeks. Between the two times he has been intubated he is approaching that limit. He will be sent back to the operating room tomorrow at 1pm to undergo this procedure. One person joked that he has a BOGO (buy one get one free) deal going with the operating room. Please pray that everything goes smoothly and that there are no complications associated with the procedure. The doctors feel that this is a necessary step to aid in his recovery and comfort in the days to come. Thanks for praying. Prayer changes things and us!

A new challenge

Romans 8:28  "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

This morning I'm again reminded of one of Dad's favorite verses.  God promises us that He is at work even when we feel like things aren't going in the "right" direction. 

We have a new development in our family.  One of John's daughters, Siana (age 9), has become very ill back in their homeland of Cambodia.  She is now hospitalized with what they are calling henoch scholein purpura and will be evacuated to Singapore later today.  Please keep John and Christa in your prayers as they figure out how to manage this challenge and pray for God's healing touch on Siana. 

Dad is holding steady.  The latest is that the x-rays show that little has changed in his lungs in the past couple of days.  He did a breathing test today to help build up his muscles so that hopefully he can be removed from the ventilator soon.  He has developed a sore on his back, which is not healing well and is cause for concern should it become infected.  We are continuing to learn what it means to take each day one at a time and trust Him. 

Thank you for continuing to pray with us - both for Hu/Dad and now for Siana as well.  God knows what He is doing.  He is in control, and He is at work even in the most difficult of circumstances.



  

The Ride

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe." Proverbs 10:8

My life these days feels somewhat like a roller coaster ride--ups and downs. Like most people when I awaken in the morning I never know what it will be like that day. Today started off well with Hu somewhat alert and as the hours passed he became more communicative--at least as well as he can with a tube in his mouth and throat. I enjoy watching his eyebrows as he indicates his preference of choices for having assistance with things we take for granted. He has started to write things down which makes it easier to decipher his requests. He was given some breathing tests to improve his lung muscles so he can build enough endurance to come off the ventilator. He continues to improve very slowly and one of his qualities, patience, surely pays off in this painstaking effort.

Later one of his doctors came in suggesting that the bronchoscopy be repeated. That went well for which we are thankful.

In all of this upheaval I am reminded that although I don't know what to expect from day to day the Lord is unchanging and I can count on Him as "my strong tower" for the strength I need for each day.

I am so thankful to you for your prayers and your expressions of love during this time. Our family has been greatly encouraged by them.

In Christ's love,

Sherril

Day 18

Isaiah 40:31 "But 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."

The past couple of weeks have been physically and emotionally draining; however, they have also been some of the most spritiually encouraging days I can remember as we have had more time than usual to reflect and think about God's promises to us. It's unfortunate that it takes something of this magnitude to really get our attention. I'm so grateful that He walks with us during these times and picks us up so that we can keep going.

Dad's condition remains about the same as yesterday. Not better or worse - just about the same. He continues to be on the ventilator and heavily sedated. He did have a breathing test this morning which indicated that he is currently too weak to breathe on his own. Please pray that he would have strength to breathe on his own, that his lungs would continue to heal from the pneumonia, and that he would be able to be removed from the ventilator soon. Thanks for checking in and wanting to know how Dad is doing.

Trusting Him,
David

Friday

Today was fairly uneventful, which we are thankful for. Dad seems very tired and has been sleeping a lot. When he is awake we are able to communicate with him by asking yes/no questions (since he's still on the ventilator). His lung x-ray looked better today, so he had a breathing test to see if he could breathe on his own. Unfortunately, it seems his lungs are not quite strong enough, so they will try again tomorrow. If he does well, they will probably remove the tube. So, please pray for him to pass the test. Thanks for the continued prayers.

Blessings,

John

Thanksgiving Day #2

 2 Corinthians 4:8-9,16-18 'We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed...Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."


Dad was a trooper with the tests this morning. He has developed a serious pneumonia which they are now treating with antibiotics. Although he cannot speak, he can hear us, and he knows that there are many folks praying. Thank you once again for your prayers and encouragement.

Blessings
David

Thanksgiving Day

Dear God,
We thank you for Dad and the blessing that he has been in our lives as well as to many others. Thank you that he has shown us Your ways, not just by words but by his actions. Thank you for his gentle spirit, his humble demeanor, and His love for you. We thank you for another day with him. Each day of life is a gift from you.
Amen


We've had a few serious setbacks since yesterday. He was doing so well - just about to be released from ICU. Dad has now been reintubated and is back on the ventilator. Again, he is fighting for his life. His breathing and CO2 levels had reached dangerous levels. The plan for today is that Dad will have a CT scan of his lungs as well as a bronchoscopy. As we know more, we will give updates.

Please continue to pray for God's hand in all this. We know that He is in control, and for that we are thankful on this day of remembrance. Thank you again for your prayers.

Gratefully,
David

A tough day so far...

Proverbs 24:10  "If you falter in a time of trouble, how small is your strength!"

On one of my recent trips to the hospital, a song came on the Christian radio station which really impacted me.  I don't remember the name of the song or the artist, but I remember the point - sometimes life throws us for a loop, and we realize that we can't go it alone.  We simply can't handle it on our own strength.  Sometimes we forget that we're not in control.  This experience has been a great reminder to me of that truth, but also of the fact that we have a God to turn to who is in control of everything - every step of the way, and that we can choose to trust and rely on Him. 

Dad is having a challenging day so far.  He was originally scheduled to move out of ICU.  Now that is being postponed.  He started having atrial fibrillation (abnormal heart rhythm) this morning and they have restarted him on some heart medication.  He also failed the swallow test for the third time.  You can imagine how discouraging that must be for him, as he is unable to eat or drink anything (orally) until he successfully passes that test.  His mouth and throat are extremely dry as a result.  They will continue giving him nutrition by way of the feeding tube until the swallowing improves.  They also needed to put him on a C-Pap machine to aid him with his breathing. 

Dad has come so far, yet he has so far to go.  It appears that he has begun a marathon, not a sprint.  Please continue to pray for these issues today.  Thanks again for walking with us and lifting Dad up to the Father today.

Blessings,
David
 

Up and down

Psalm 139:1-3 "You have searched me, Lord, and know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and lying down; you are familiar with all my ways."

Today Dad was determined to stand up several times (with assistance). It took all the strength he could muster up to stand for a few seconds. Finally, after the last try he was completely exhausted and laid back down on the hospital bed for a good nap. After looking at the x-ray, the doctor said Dad's lungs are still about the same, but we can be thankful that they are not getting any worse either. Pray for his lungs to continue to clear up. Praise God that tomorrow Dad will be moving out of ICU! He will move to a progressive room to work more on his breathing and strength. Although his recovery has a long ways to go, he's one more step closer to getting out of the hospital.

Blessings,

John

P.S. - Just after I finished typing this update, I got word that there are now no progressive rooms available. Please pray for an opening!

November 21

Psalm 36: 5-9 "Your love, LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, your justice like the great deep. You, LORD, preserve both people and animals. How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. "

Thanks again for checking in on Dad's journey and the progress he is making. We continue to marvel at what God is doing, and how He is in control of everything. We thank you Lord for the gift of another day with Dad and for Your preservation of his precious life!

Dad's energy and strength continue to improve. Another milestone was reached today. Dad (with the assistance of two men, but mostly on his own strength) was able to move to a chair from the bed he has been in for about 11 days now. He was so wiped out from that short trip of about 2 feet, that he quickly dosed off in the reclining chair. After an hour or two, he moved back to the bed - with assistance but mostly on his own strength. Once again it wasn't long until he dosed off again due to the exertion of moving. We were pleased to see him make this effort and also to see him sleep a bit since its been difficult for him to get much sleep.

There is concern right now of a pneumonia and the chest xrays appear to have worsened in the last couple of days. The medical staff continue to keep a close eye on his lungs and are working with him regularly to exercise his breathing and hopefully speed up the recovery process. He will remain in the ICU until the pneumonia begins to clear up.

Please pray for:

1. Continued healing of the lungs, especially with the onset of a pneumonia process in each lung

2. That he will be able to pass the next swallow study. Although on an IV, his mouth and throat are very dry and it has become more difficult for him to talk. He is still on a feeding tube and says that it tastes terrible! We're glad that he has a strong opinion about it!

3. Continued strength and energy

We're thankful that:

1. He was able to spend some time sitting in a chair today

2. His chest drainage tube was removed, which has been in his chest since his first operation on Nov 9

Thanks again for praying with us to the God who's love is unfailing.

Blessings,

David

Approaching a '7'

Proverbs 24:10 - "If you falter in time of trouble how small is your strength."

Just a quick update tonight.  Dad appears to slowly be improving.  Today he said that he was close to being a '7' on a scale of how he felt from 1 to a 10.  This afternoon was the most alert I have seen him since things really went downhill a little over a week ago.  He still speaks very coarsely (almost like someone with laryngitis) and gets winded quickly.  He's able to string a few words together, and then he has to rest.  His ability to breathe and lung inflammation remain a concern and are being closely monitored by the ICU staff.  However, overall he appears to be improving bit by bit and his vital signs remain good.  Today he was moving around quite a bit in his bed.  When asked if he needed assistance, he said, "No, I'm just exercising!"  Please continue to pray for continued strength and energy.  He also could use a good night's rest, as that is something that has been lacking.  Thanks once again for your fervent prayers.  We see God at work.  We praise Him for progress and the healing touch on Dad's body!

Blessings,
David

Six

Last night when Dad "came to" we were so elated that he was awake and responsive!  I smiled at him and he smiled back the best he could through all the tape and tubes.  That smile made my eyes well up with tears of joy.  I asked him how he felt on a scale of 1 to 10, and I held up 10 fingers.  I asked, "Do you feel like a 10?"  He nodded 'no'.  Then I dropped one hand and asked, "Do you feel like a five?"  He nodded 'yes'.  Today, after he had the tubes removed, I asked him how he felt.  He SAID, "Yesterday I was a 5...today I'm a 6."  Praise God that the removal of the tubes was successful, that he is breathing well, and that he can talk! 

The speech therapist was very impressed with his voice (although quite hoarse) and his ability to swallow; nevertheless, they're going to hold off feeding him orally until his throat has more time to heal.

Later on in the day we walked in to see Dad after he had rested a bit.  To our surprise, he said, "Pull up a chair, and stay for a while."  James asked him who the president is.  He said, "Lincoln."  James asked him again, same answer.  James asked a third time and Dad said with a grin, "Obama."  What a hoot!  At the end of our visit we prayed with him and thanked God for what He is doing.  To our surprise, Dad whispered a short prayer when we were done.  Thank you Lord! 

Please continue to pray for Dad's healing - he still has lots of congestion and is very weak and tired.  He has come a LONG way.  He is still in ICU, but we're hopeful that tomorrow he'll be a '7' or an '8', and that he'll be out of there soon.  Thank you for praying. 

Blessings,
David

A note from Sherril - Resentment

"In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears" (Psalm 18:6).


Each night I’ve been staying at the hospital as late as possible to spend time with Hu. Thursday night John was with me and when we got home David and James were up chatting. During Hu’s hospitalization we have had numerous times of prayer either individually or with just two of us. However, since only two people have been able to be with Hu at a time, there have been few times when the four of us have been at the same location and prayed together. David and James had been discussing the need for us to get together as a family to pray for Hu and process what we were experiencing. “My plan” was to be at the hospital in the morning for the doctors’ rounds and then I would come home at 8:00 a.m. I awakened tired (short night) and resentful trying to reconcile why I was going to come home when felt I needed to be with Hu.

The doctors’ reports were pretty much the same as we had heard before with small changes in the medications. It came time for me to leave, and I was even more resentful about leaving and began to cry. The nurse wrapped her arms around me and asked what was wrong and if I was ok to drive. I assured her I was. I headed out of the parking lot still in tears and the parking attendant asked if I was ok and if I needed a hug. (Thank the Lord for sensitive people!) When I arrived home I made it quite clear that I didn’t think I belonged there in my emotional state. However, as we talked together and then took our feelings and concerns about Hu to the Lord in prayer those feelings of resentment and focus on myself subsided.

It has been four years since we were all together (with wives and some of the grandchildren) and probably more than 20 years since just “the brothers”, Mom and Dad have been together.

I’m thankful for our caring boys but more than that I thank the Lord that they are following the Lord and desiring through their leadership to do the right thing—even when Mom doesn’t seem to be on board. We now have a pattern in place to set aside some family time each day to pray and encourage each other as we continue to learn what the Lord is teaching us through this experience.

I learned a valuable lesson through that experience - that I need to focus on prayer even when it isn’t “my plan” for the moment because Jesus stands ready to listen—if I am willing.

In Christ’s love,
Sherril

He Speaks!

Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight."

All the physicians were in agreement this morning, and they decided to liberate Dad from the ventilator.  The breathing tube was removed, and he is breathing on his own and talking!  We are excited about this major milestone in his recovery. 

The above verse was especially meaningful to Dad as he prepared for the surgery.  Knowing that our only hope is to trust in God for Dad's journey has reminded me and given me peace that God knows the route and destination of Dad's journey.

Please to pray:
1.  For his ability to swallow after having the breathing tube in for several days. 
2.  Continued healing of his lungs.  They are still very congested from the inflammation.
3.  That there are no further complications.

Thank you so much for your prayers. We know that his recovery can only be from God.  We thank Him for another day with Dad.

~James

   

Tonight's excitement

Psalm 13:5 "But I trust in your unfailing love my heart rejoices in your salvation.  I will sing to the Lord for He has been good to me."

Today we began to get concerned that we hadn't had any response from Dad in over 24 hours. The doctors decided they should try changing the type of sedation and also do some tests to figure out why he hasn't been responding. Then, right before they took Dad in for the tests, he started to open his eyes again. After they finished the tests, the nurse called us to quickly come to the room. As soon as we got there, we saw that his eyes were open, and he was watching us. We asked him questions, and he squeezed our hands in response. He even raised his eyebrows to answer a few of our questions! We are so excited about this since its a good sign that his brain is still functioning normally. Praise God! Thanks for praying!

John

Please pray...

Dad is undergoing some important tests in the next few hours.  Please pray.

Blessed by friends

As we got closer to Hu’s surgery dates we received more and more offers from friends and relatives for assistance. Expecting routine surgery and recovery of a few days we were grateful but didn’t see a need to accept. Since there has been a change in the length of Hu’s hospitalization we’ve been so blessed already by acts of kindness by so many. Our leaves have been blown, meals delivered, calls and emails received to name a few of the ways we’ve been encouraged. I’m trying to take notes so I know what would be helpful for people in our situation in the future.

Having our sons here with us for support and encouragement has been tremendous. (I can’t forget their wives who unselfishly supported their decision to come while they stay behind in the roles of Mom and Dad.) As a mom I would love to be feeding our sons some of their favorite foods and making meals for them. However, one of our friends offered to help in that way by setting up a temporary meal program for our family. If you would like to have more information about that please go to http://www.takethemameal.com/meals.php?t=FNAQ7989 name is The Harrills. 

We appreciate your faithful prayers for Hu and our family during these days of uncertainty.

Love,

Sherril

Day Ten

Psalm 94:19 - In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul. 

This is day ten, and to be honest, we're tired.  We're learning anew what it means to trust in the Lord and rest in Him completely.  It's a struggle as it's not in our nature to let go.  Today, during our family devotion time we talked about how we sometimes get to a point where we have nothing to give, nothing to say, and the reality that we are facing now - nothing we can do to save Dad.  All we have is God and that is more than sufficient.  God doesn't expect eloquent prayers, He just wants us to rest in His arms.  The devotional we read spoke to me clearly with one specific phrase in particular - When we have nothing left but God, we'll find that God is enough.

PRAISE!! -  We just learned from the surgeon that the pathology report came back.  Dad's Dr. came beaming down the hallway to deliver the news..."The pathology report looks good.  There is no cancer in any of the lymph nodes.  It looks like we got it all in the mass that was removed."  He also said that "some of your prayers are being answered".  Praise God for this encouraging report!  God is good!  His comfort delights our souls!

Prayer requests -

• That Dad's breathing would continue to improve as he is on the ventilator
• That as he is weened off sedation that he would respond (he has not been responding to simple commands in the last 24 hours or so).  He needs to "wake up" so they can work on getting him off the ventilator and breathing on his own completely.
• Continued wisdom for the medical team that is working diligently to help Dad
• That we would be sensitive to how God is moving and respond accordingly

God is at work.  We're confident of that.  We don't understand it all; however, we can choose to take comfort in Him.  It's a choice that we're learning to make as we walk with Dad through this difficult time.  Thanks for praying.  God hears you!

Gratefully,
David

Rejoicing in another day

Psalm 118:24 "This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it."

What a difference it makes in my attitude when I remember that God is ultimately in control of everything that goes on each day. Would I have any reason to "rejoice and be glad" if I felt that everything just happened by chance? I know it is not just chance that my dad (and our family) is going through this trial. He is teaching us so much about who He is through this experience. I'm so glad that we have a Lord we can trust one hundred percent.

Lord, thank you for another day with my dad. We rejoice in this day for continually restoring Dad's health. Also, thank you today for:

a normal temperature

an improved chest xray

an improved white blood count

that Dad is breathing on his own (although still connected to the ventilator)

that he is responding to commands when the sedation is low

that his vitals are stable

Finally, Lord, we ask you to breathe strength into Dad's lungs, so he can have the breathing tube taken out, which is causing him extreme discomfort and pain.

John

Wednesday

The nitric oxide was stopped!  He has been off of it since 5am, and his oxygen level has been great.  They were able to stop the remaining medication that was keeping his blood pressure high enough.  He is on two medications to keep his heart beating in a normal rhythm, and he will probably come off one of those medications today.  Now that his heart/lung/blood pressure balance is more stable, they have started diuretics on him to help remove some of the fluid overload in his lungs and body.  They were able to take 2 liters out of his system.  Tomorrow we may be able to see if Dad can breathe completely on his own with no ventilator support. 

Dad had a new challenge added to the mix today when we found out that his lung culture came back positive for a couple kinds of bacteria.  They placed him on 3 heavy duty antibiotics right away, and they are waiting on the final identification of the bacteria to know how to fight them with the least harmful effects to Dad.  We are thankful his white blood count has improved and he has not had any fevers.  Hopefully, the bacteria in the lungs gets annihilated quickly with the big gun antibiotics.

Thank you for the prayers!  Dad is making strides in his recovery.

One Tough Guy

Today they lightened Dad's sedation, and I had to use some of my big-boy strength to keep him from pulling at his breathing tube.  We are thankful that after being medically paralyzed for 4 days his muscles are still strong.  He continues to improve, slowly in baby steps.  They have been able to eliminate some of the blood pressure, sedation, and pain medications.  Tomorrow, we are going to see how he will do off the inhaled nitric oxide, and maybe he will get placed on a style of ventilation that mimics the way you and I breathe.  His status is still very guarded, but he continues to move towards a recovery.

At 7:30pm we were blessed by others as we gathered and prayed for Dad in the surgical waiting room.  We were surprised to see a long-time-no-see friend show up.  He had flown in from Detroit this evening just to pray with us.  Thank you to those who prayed with us during that time all around the world.

David mentioned previously that last Friday evening Dad's oxygen level was dangerously low for an extended amount of time.  As a result, we do not know if he suffered any brain injury.  We were thrilled to see that he was following commands and moving his arms and legs with purpose today.  He was correctly answering questions with a nod or shake of his head, even when I asked him a trick question!  After the "20 questions" were done, he drifted off to sleep.  A few minutes later, he opened his eyes and scanned the room.  His eyes fell on me, and he gave me a casual wave as if to say “howdy.”  Even from the ICU bed with a ventilator and 12 IV bags hanging next to him, he was trying to reassure me.  I never would have thought that I would be learning something new about my dad while he was unable to speak or breathe for himself, but today I got a taste of his “farm boy” toughness.

I have always known my dad as a quiet and gentle spirit who trusts God and leaves all his concerns at God’s feet.  I had not seen his tougher side until now.  As I look back on his hospital stay, I remember how he again confidently agreed to go to the operating room for the 2nd time less than 48 hours after the 1st surgery.  He was calm as he struggled to breathe before they put him on the ventilator prior to his 3rd surgery.  He even mustered the strength to tell me he loved me while in the midst of his torment of failing lungs.  After his 3rd surgery on Friday, he struggled to breathe on the ventilator with flash pulmonary edema as the medical staff did their best to keep him alive.  During this, he would respond to our voices, open his eyes, move his eyebrows, and squeeze our hands at our request.  When I was growing up, he would make me laugh when he would wiggle his ears at my request.  That night I think he would have wiggled his ears if I had asked, just to reassure me.  Although I know Dad grew up on a farm, I know his “toughness” comes from knowing that he is right where God wants him to be.  He knows God is in control, and I am proud to have a father who is able to be strong and courageous in the most desperate time in his physical life.

Thanks/Praises:
1.  Dad is moving and following commands despite the insult of Friday night’s breathing difficulties.
2.  So far his cultures have not shown any sign of infection.
3.  The encouragement of the “howdy” wave.
4.  The support from family and friends has been a truly moving experience
5.  God is in control.

Prayer Requests:
1.  That he can come off the inhaled nitric oxide.
2.  Protection from further complications and a miraculous healing to his body.
3.  That Dad’s journey will continue to speak to others as a testament of God’s goodness.

Thank you for reading.  I hope this is an encouragement to you.

Gratefully,

James

Prayer time tonight 6:30-7:30

Proverbs 18:10: "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe."

I can't help but think that Dad knew. It seems that he knew something bigger than a routine surgery was about to transpire. We were pretty sure that the tumor was malignant even before the surgery. Dad had such peace and courage about him.  As I look back at the days and hours leading up to his first surgery last Wednesday, I can't help but think that God was preparing Dad for something bigger. For example, the verses that I am sharing with you each day are verses that Dad felt God was using in his life in a special way.

Dad had a good night and continues to improve. He continues to be sedated and on the ventilator; however, they continue to lower the medications that he is on and he is responding well.  His vital signs are good.  He is a bit squirrely, since they took him off of the paralytic medication. It's good to see him moving around a bit.  We're also keeping a close eye on him to make sure he doesn't yank out his ventilator tube!

We'd like to welcome you to join us in prayer this evening from 6:30-7:30pm at the Carolinas Medical Center, Sanger Heart & Vascular waiting room, on the third floor. Their phone number is 704-355-4700 just in case you need further directions.  If you are unable to join us in person, we would love it if you could join us in prayer at that time, wherever you are.  According to the blog, there are folks in at least 10 countries who are checking on Dad's progress.  Thank you for your concern!

Thanks again for stopping by the blog today as we journey with Dad and wait to see what God has in store.  We hope you are blessed today as we have been remembering that God is our strong tower in the midst of life's storms.

Blessings,
David

Dad opens his eyes!

Just a quick note. They tapered off the medication that was keeping Dad in a paralytic state. The nurse asked what he likes to be called and we responded with 'Hu'. The nurse began calling his name and talking directly to him since he had begun moving around a bit since the medicine had tapered off. Then Mom got real close to him and spoke a few words, and he opened his eyes right up! He did this several times. We are so thankful for this step! Thank you Lord! Please pray for continued healing and that Dad gets good rest tonight.

Trusting Him,
David

Day Six

Lamentations 3:21-23: "The Lord's loving kindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning: Great is Your faithfulness."

Overall Dad had a good night.  He did have a little bump in the road with his oxygen level going down; however, with some changes to the ventilator settings, his oxygen level improved.  By morning he was back at his original ventilator settings.  They continue to slowly ween his supportive medications, although he remains sedated and paralyzed from the medication.  His body temperature is normal and his vital signs continue to look good.



Progress is slow.  We wish it were faster. We're beginning to realize that this may be much more of a marathon than a sprint.  


Praises - Dad's fever has subsided, and he had a good night.  We praise God for His provision in very specific ways for our family. 


Prayer requests - That Dad could be weened from the nitric oxide that he is currently on so that he might be put on a different mode of ventilation that mirrors a more normal breathing pattern.  Continue to pray that there are no further complications such as blood clots, additional infections, etc.  Please continue to pray for healing of the lungs and decreased inflammation.  Pray that all of us would have the peace that passes all understanding.  Pray that God would continue to use this situation to bring Him honor and glory and build His kingdom.


We have a great God.  He has blessed us with a wonderful father/husband.  We realize that there is nothing we can do at this point.  Nothing but wait and trust the God of the universe to do what is best.  What great comfort there is knowing that our hope is in God almighty who works all things for good.  

Thanks again for walking with us through this journey.  It means more than we can express.


Blessings,
David (for the family)

Sunday night update

Romans 8:28: "We know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, who are called according to His purpose."

Today there was some concern about Dad's elevated body temperature, so some cultures were taken to rule out an infection.  Those cultures will take about 48 hours for results; however we're hoping that the elevated temp is related to the inflamation in the lungs rather than an infection.  His status has become more stable throughout the day in every vital sign - oxygen level, heart rate, blood pressure, fluid balance, etc.  This is a huge praise!  They have been able to begin "feeding" him today, which should aid in the healing process.  He continues to be completely sedated and the ventilator is breathing for him.  The medical staff is pleased with Dad's progress and feel things are moving in the right direction.  Tonight we were "kicked out" of the ICU for a couple of hours.  That is actually a good sign as they see Dad as being more stable.  Praise God!

Praise - We're thankful for the progress and the excellent care and attention of the hospital staff towards Dad and our family.  We're thankful for John's safe arrival from Cambodia. 

Prayer requests - That Dad will tolerate the "feedings" well, that the fever subsides and is not related to infection, and for continued healing of the lungs.  Also pray that no new complications develop and that his vital signs continue to improve.

Thanks for walking this journey with us.  We need you.

In Him,
David  (for the Harrill family)

Message from Sherril/Mom

Today as I was reading my devotions to Hu a verse in Psalms stood out to me.

Psalm 79:13

The Message (MSG)

¹³ Then we, your people, the ones you love and care for, will thank you over and over and over. We'll tell everyone we meet how wonderful you are, how praiseworthy you are!

This morning as I was walking down the long hall to the Intensive Care Unit I was reminded of one of my daughters-in-law, who is posting something she is thankful for every day this month on Facebook. Although I haven’t mastered the art of using Facebook, the idea did prompt me to think about what I am thankful for today. I wanted to share some of the things that have come to my mind.

· Jesus who died for me and rose from the grave so that I know I have eternal life

· Hu, who has been the love of my life for the last 45 years, and his heart's desire that his surgery experience “glorify Christ”

· My children and their wives who are standing with us during this difficult time—each has assumed a different role during this difficult family time

· Our eight grandchildren who have been praying for Abuelo/Ye ye

· Extended family members and friends who have been available all time of the day and night to help with unique tasks in any way they can

· The numerous doctors and nurses that have been involved in Hu’s care (including the one that put a warm blanket around my shoulders as I read our devotions to him this morning), who so willingly keep us informed of his treatment

· You, our friend who have encouraged us by your prayers and numerous acts of kindness

· Technology that allows us to keep in touch and share updates with you (and our sons that have made this happen for us)

My prayer requests for today are:

· That Hu's heart which has been weakened by the surgeries will strengthen so that it will help to keep other functions on a normal level

· That the medical personnel can see through us that no matter what happens in this life, it is eternity that counts

Love,

Sherril