Today began for us at 4:30, after a time of prayer with our pastor, a leader/friend from our church, we proceeded to Jim's hopsital room. Within a fast two hours he was getting ready for the transplant that we have prayed about and prepared for over the last several years, and most earnestly the past several months. Off he went to the OR.
Then the hours began longer and longer. Thankfully, there were updates on Stephanie and Jim and the progress that was being made with the transplant. Stephanie finished early afternoon and Jim was later in the afternoon. Stephanie was able to sit up for awhile already and she is now named "our Angel" rather than "our Stephanie". Our relationship was close, but today it has become something more intertwined that I cannot even express. What a sacrificial gift that we were given.
As I was able to be with Jim in the recovery room, I had the opportunity to see him receiving an ultrasound and seeing his new kidney (or as I called it) his new precious life working and allowing the fluids to flow through the proper areas. I could hardly keep my tears from rolling down my cheeks. My husband was laying there breathing on his own, holding my hand and watching this gift working in his body! Thank you God for the miracle of transplants and organ donors!
While waiting throughout the days, our family we blessed with close friends, church family and extended family members staying for most or the entire time of the two surgeries. Stephanie and Bobby's family were greeted with hugs and love and hopefully felt the gratitude and thankfulness of Stephanie's gift. We shared some laughter, some tears, some nourishment, and some prayers of praise and thankfulness.
It was a LONG DAY, but oh, what a day of life and energy. Thank you for your support in prayer and through your encouraging comments.
Looking forward to a good night's sleep for all. Please keep the prayers and thoughts coming for both Stephanie and Jim and our families.
As for visitors for Jim, Tomorrow (Wednesday) 9.28.11 we will be limiting it to only our immediate family. He had a very long day and he needs his rest and strength.
I wanted so much to be there yesterday, though I knew the sore throat made it impossible. I could think of little else but you and yours all day. You know I love you, Jim and your family so much. There are several others who asked me to pass along their love, thoughts and prayers: Adam , Daniel, Dad & Michelle, Mary Weir & her daughter Dixie McLeod, and Karen Jennings [my friend who went to see Menopause with us].
ReplyDeleteSo blessed to be a part of all of this even from a far. We love you all and Stephanie too! Even if I never meet any of you!
ReplyDeleteTracy, I know you love our family and the feeling is mutual. THANK YOU for not coming. I felt your prayers and love throughout the day for sure.
ReplyDeleteDana, we LOVE you and yours as well and we ARE going to meet face-to-face dear one. I know it!