Updates are short and sweet: YEA!!! GISG JIM: Jim is doing well and getting stronger each day. I am so amazed at the level of his fatigue now after his transplant. He tires, but he doesn't have "that fatigue". It is hard to describe, but the fatigue caused by his kidney failure was severe. He is doing amazing. He also was extremely satisfied with the outcome of the Sunday night football game between the Eagles and Dallas!!! We'll take a WIN any time the Eagles will give us a WIN and what a WIN it was!!!
Thanks for the prayers during Jim's recovery. He is planning on going to work for a few hours this coming Thursday and will see how things go. He is very happy to be able to drive (as I am as well), and be "more independent. He is doing little projects and has been able to "catch up" on some readings and things.
MATT: Is doing great and has his pre-op appointment on the 8th of November. His surgery is Tuesday, November 15th at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia, and we covet your prayers and thoughts, as the surgery will be approximately 6 hours. Prayers for his recovery and that what they have said about his cancerous small spot, will be just that (surgery, recovery, finished)! He feels great and again, we are SO thankful for the kidney stone episode (in August) to make the professionals aware of a "situation" at such an early stage. GISG. Matt will be recovery at our home, so feel free to send him notes of encouragement, ect to our mailing address. He will be home approx 5-7 days after his surgery. Anyone in need of our home address can contact me through my email or facebook accounts.
Time for treating our trick-or-treaters! Have a great week. More updates later and thanks for the support and love for our family. We are humbled by your love!
~Tina
Monday, October 31, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
10.28.11-One Month and a few days!
Jim's appt went very well today. Blood pressure, weight, and kidney function is all good!! He can drive now!! He still can only lift 10lbs for awhile. He plans to go back to work on a very part-time basis this coming Thursday. We see the team next Friday with bloodwork Thursday morning.
Keep the prayers coming! Stephanie had her one month check up today in Texas and she is doing very well. We were so thankful to hear from her and that she is doing so well today! GIG
Matt's pre-op visit is November 8th (Lindsay and Megan will be married 3 years on that day)and his surgery is the 15th at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia. Keep those prayers flowing for him, as I know you will.
Thanks for the ongoing support, love, encouragement, and prayers.
~Tina Psalm 55:22
Keep the prayers coming! Stephanie had her one month check up today in Texas and she is doing very well. We were so thankful to hear from her and that she is doing so well today! GIG
Matt's pre-op visit is November 8th (Lindsay and Megan will be married 3 years on that day)and his surgery is the 15th at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia. Keep those prayers flowing for him, as I know you will.
Thanks for the ongoing support, love, encouragement, and prayers.
~Tina Psalm 55:22
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Update on Matt from August until October
Dear friends and family we are asking you to keep those prayers coming and to add our son to your thoughts and prayers as he will be having surgery on November 15th for the removal of a small cancerous tumor at his pancreas. Matt has given me permission to share this next adventure with you all on this blog, so from time to time I will update you on how his journey is going. He is doing great and is thankful to get this all behind him and move on with his rich, full, life. I'm honored to share our stories with you all.
The need for this surgery was discovered when Matt was having extreme pain and sickness and Jim and Lindsay took him to the Christiana ER. We found out that he was having a kidney stone attack and he passed one of the stones that weekend, praise God! He still has another one, but that may never cause him any issues. When he was at the ER they did a CT to see if their diagnosis was correct (yes it was a kidney stone) and while doing that CT they noticed a shadow near his pancreas. We are SO THANKFUL for the kidney stone attack. Matt, having no issues, would still not know that he was in need of surgery without the trip to the ER that August evening!
Below are some entries of prayer requests that I have been making to my prayer sistas, which will update you on the process of our newest journey:
Sept 12- Today Matt received word that his bloodwork came back fine! Giving God the praise for this answered prayer!! Keep the prayers coming. Matt should hear from someone at Jefferson Hospital about scheduling the endoscopic ultrasound w/ biopsy by Wednesday. If he does not, he is suppose to call the gastro-physician Dr. Hoskins(spell ?) and his office will talk to Jefferson. This is an outpatient procedure and we are praying that it will be sooner rather than later because of the time crunch with the transplant on the 27th. GISG ~Tina
Sept 20 - I wanted to let my prayer sistas know Matt finally got the procedure started around 1:45 and it took approx an hour. Then recovery. Traffic is terrible coming home for Philly. There is definitely something there and the biopsy will be sent out (of course) and Matt should call next Tuesday (the day of Jim's transplant), but there is a good possibility that the results won't be in for 2 weeks (the following Tuesday). The area, or "it" as we are calling it. is small about 2cm or less. We were not given much else about "it", so we'll continue to give it to God (that's the hard part for me and my controlling and fixing personality) and wait (which is another lesser quality of possess). THANK YOU for your continued prayers for Matt and for our family and Stephanie and her family. Stephanie will be getting into DE this evening for the "next event". GIG ~Tina
Sept 26- Prayer Warriors, I need you to do some more specific praying for the Wilson Clan. Matt got his test results back from the pancreas biopsy today and though it could be ALOT worse, the news isn't really what I was praying for at this point and time. Matt has a Pancreatic Endocrine Tumor (cancerous), which is slow growing and with surgery (removal) he will be cancer-free. There will be no need for chemo or radiation. The area, as we said from the biopsy is small, so it seems to be contained. Matt is waiting to hear from a Jefferson's surgeon about the process to get rid of "it". We are thankful that because of his kidney stone episode in August, this was found so very early. The timing isn't wonderful with Jim's surgery tomorrow, and I feel like my plate is fuller than I can possibly carry without dropping things, but God knows the amount we can handle, and He will help hold my "plate". As for tomorrow's "event". We report at 5 and Jim's surgery will begin around 9. Stephanie's will begin around 8. Keep the prayers coming!! ~Tina
Oct 20th - Matt really likes the surgeon at Jefferson and Lindsay and Matt got alot of information for the upcoming surgery. The date is November 15th. It will take at least 6 hours, they will remove the cancerous spot as well as the end of his pancreas, his spleen, and depending on how his gall bladder looks, they will "just take that out" as well. They will not know until they "get in" if the cancer spot is localize, which they feel it is. They will take some lymph nodes around the area as well. He will be in the hospital at Jefferson for 5-7 days and then recovery will be approximately 3 weeks. If there is signs of changes in his lymph nodes they would have to "go in" again and remove those areas, but his liver, kidney, bladder, pancreas look good at this time and that is something to be very thankful for. No hereditary reason for Matt having this cancerous spot. He is doing well and wants this behind him (as we do). I appreciate your prayers on his behalf and on ours as we continue to ventured into this next phase of our surgery/recovery/healing time. We know that God is in control and will cover Matt with His healing arms. What are our needs at this time.... Jim continues to improve each day and we plan to talk to the transplant team tomorrow about Jim's ability to be at the surgery on the 15th of November. I am thankful that it is in mid-November, because Jim will be much more mobile on his own, so I can focus on Matt and his recovery. ~Tina
Oct 21- We talked with the transplant team and they have no issues with Jim going to Jefferson for Matt's upcoming surgery on November 15th! Once again God is providing all our needs. Thank you for keeping Matt in your ongoing prayers. ~Thankful, Tina
Thank you for all your support and we know that you will keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we enter into the next phase of our amazing journey of healing! ~Tina
The need for this surgery was discovered when Matt was having extreme pain and sickness and Jim and Lindsay took him to the Christiana ER. We found out that he was having a kidney stone attack and he passed one of the stones that weekend, praise God! He still has another one, but that may never cause him any issues. When he was at the ER they did a CT to see if their diagnosis was correct (yes it was a kidney stone) and while doing that CT they noticed a shadow near his pancreas. We are SO THANKFUL for the kidney stone attack. Matt, having no issues, would still not know that he was in need of surgery without the trip to the ER that August evening!
Below are some entries of prayer requests that I have been making to my prayer sistas, which will update you on the process of our newest journey:
Sept 12- Today Matt received word that his bloodwork came back fine! Giving God the praise for this answered prayer!! Keep the prayers coming. Matt should hear from someone at Jefferson Hospital about scheduling the endoscopic ultrasound w/ biopsy by Wednesday. If he does not, he is suppose to call the gastro-physician Dr. Hoskins(spell ?) and his office will talk to Jefferson. This is an outpatient procedure and we are praying that it will be sooner rather than later because of the time crunch with the transplant on the 27th. GISG ~Tina
Sept 20 - I wanted to let my prayer sistas know Matt finally got the procedure started around 1:45 and it took approx an hour. Then recovery. Traffic is terrible coming home for Philly. There is definitely something there and the biopsy will be sent out (of course) and Matt should call next Tuesday (the day of Jim's transplant), but there is a good possibility that the results won't be in for 2 weeks (the following Tuesday). The area, or "it" as we are calling it. is small about 2cm or less. We were not given much else about "it", so we'll continue to give it to God (that's the hard part for me and my controlling and fixing personality) and wait (which is another lesser quality of possess). THANK YOU for your continued prayers for Matt and for our family and Stephanie and her family. Stephanie will be getting into DE this evening for the "next event". GIG ~Tina
Sept 26- Prayer Warriors, I need you to do some more specific praying for the Wilson Clan. Matt got his test results back from the pancreas biopsy today and though it could be ALOT worse, the news isn't really what I was praying for at this point and time. Matt has a Pancreatic Endocrine Tumor (cancerous), which is slow growing and with surgery (removal) he will be cancer-free. There will be no need for chemo or radiation. The area, as we said from the biopsy is small, so it seems to be contained. Matt is waiting to hear from a Jefferson's surgeon about the process to get rid of "it". We are thankful that because of his kidney stone episode in August, this was found so very early. The timing isn't wonderful with Jim's surgery tomorrow, and I feel like my plate is fuller than I can possibly carry without dropping things, but God knows the amount we can handle, and He will help hold my "plate". As for tomorrow's "event". We report at 5 and Jim's surgery will begin around 9. Stephanie's will begin around 8. Keep the prayers coming!! ~Tina
Oct 20th - Matt really likes the surgeon at Jefferson and Lindsay and Matt got alot of information for the upcoming surgery. The date is November 15th. It will take at least 6 hours, they will remove the cancerous spot as well as the end of his pancreas, his spleen, and depending on how his gall bladder looks, they will "just take that out" as well. They will not know until they "get in" if the cancer spot is localize, which they feel it is. They will take some lymph nodes around the area as well. He will be in the hospital at Jefferson for 5-7 days and then recovery will be approximately 3 weeks. If there is signs of changes in his lymph nodes they would have to "go in" again and remove those areas, but his liver, kidney, bladder, pancreas look good at this time and that is something to be very thankful for. No hereditary reason for Matt having this cancerous spot. He is doing well and wants this behind him (as we do). I appreciate your prayers on his behalf and on ours as we continue to ventured into this next phase of our surgery/recovery/healing time. We know that God is in control and will cover Matt with His healing arms. What are our needs at this time.... Jim continues to improve each day and we plan to talk to the transplant team tomorrow about Jim's ability to be at the surgery on the 15th of November. I am thankful that it is in mid-November, because Jim will be much more mobile on his own, so I can focus on Matt and his recovery. ~Tina
Oct 21- We talked with the transplant team and they have no issues with Jim going to Jefferson for Matt's upcoming surgery on November 15th! Once again God is providing all our needs. Thank you for keeping Matt in your ongoing prayers. ~Thankful, Tina
Thank you for all your support and we know that you will keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we enter into the next phase of our amazing journey of healing! ~Tina
10.25.11
One month ago today, Jim and Stephanie were in the operating room, while family and many friends were gathering in the waiting room for a day of waiting and anticipating! What a difference a few weeks make!
Jim continues to do well and is getting stronger every day. It is amazing to see his strength returning and the fatigue diminishing.We continue to walk in a daily basis (weather permitting) and Jim's goal was to do the circuit (around a section of our development which we call the circuit). Yesterday we did just that and plan to do that each time we go for our walks.His vitals are staying in the normal ranges, and he continues to be symptom-free with the medications that he is taking. We are so thankful for how his recovery is going. Friday we see "our team" and see what the next phase of Jim's recovery will be (lifting some restrictions that he still has, always regulations of his medications, which is very normal, etc).
Stephanie, since we spoke last, is doing well and again, we are so thankful for her precious unconditional gift. She is our angel (even though she has a warped devotion to the Cowboys, LOL)! We are thankful for all the meals that had been prepared for us and we are thankful for those that have continued to keep our lawn mowed and other needs that we have while Jim continues to heal.
We continue to ask for prayers on our behalf because we know that God can do anything according to His great plan for our lives.
Enjoy this gorgeous day!
~Tina
Jim continues to do well and is getting stronger every day. It is amazing to see his strength returning and the fatigue diminishing.We continue to walk in a daily basis (weather permitting) and Jim's goal was to do the circuit (around a section of our development which we call the circuit). Yesterday we did just that and plan to do that each time we go for our walks.His vitals are staying in the normal ranges, and he continues to be symptom-free with the medications that he is taking. We are so thankful for how his recovery is going. Friday we see "our team" and see what the next phase of Jim's recovery will be (lifting some restrictions that he still has, always regulations of his medications, which is very normal, etc).
Stephanie, since we spoke last, is doing well and again, we are so thankful for her precious unconditional gift. She is our angel (even though she has a warped devotion to the Cowboys, LOL)! We are thankful for all the meals that had been prepared for us and we are thankful for those that have continued to keep our lawn mowed and other needs that we have while Jim continues to heal.
We continue to ask for prayers on our behalf because we know that God can do anything according to His great plan for our lives.
Enjoy this gorgeous day!
~Tina
"Blessed are they that have the gift of making friends, for it is one of God's best gifts. It involves many things, but above all, the power of going out of one's self, and appreciating whatever is noble and living in another." ~Thomas Hughes
Sunday, October 23, 2011
10.23.11
This past week Jim has been stating that he wanted to attend church services on Sunday. My response was "well see". Well, today is Sunday, my apprehension was on "high alert" while making our breakfast,etc., but I reluctantly said "let's go" for church service.
The reason for my reluctance was not wanting to worship with our church family, but was the idea of all the hugs and handshakes that we would be receiving since we haven't been at church since mid-September the week before Jim's transplant!
Silly me, God takes care of all aspects of our lives, and why did I think He would not have this under control. We got to services and before we entered the doorway, a friend and leader at church came out to lead us in and he already shared with those greeting and meeting, that hand shaking and hugs were limited to only me. My reluctance turned into thankfulness and it was so great to be there!
Our family (Megan, Lindsay, Jackson and Matt) were all there in the back row with two seats for us when we got there. We wanted to sit in the last row to keep Jim out of public way so to speak ( it is only 3 1/2 weeks since his transplant and this morning was the first day he even tried a pair of button-type docker pants, much less being in a car for a 30 minute drive and having to sit in a chair for an hour with his legs not propped up)! Jim was doing great. We decided to have Jim "leave for the restroom" when the children were dismissed for Faith Launch and everyone in the auditorium would be meeting and greeting. Before the time for this we to occur, our pastor, Frank, got up and made some wonderful remarks about Jim being here and how it is early for him to be in a large group, so during the meeting and greeting period, smile at Jim, chat with him, but give Tina a "hit" LOL (he didn't say a hug), handshake, etc. God worked through our church family for us to be there today and for me to have no worries and truly be able to worship with our church family. What a great day.
Our afternoon was spent with Jim resting, a nice long walk and some time of organizing as well as enjoying the warmth of the sunshine and the changing of the seasons. What a great day indeed.
I am so thankful for how our church responded to Jim's strong desire to be at services and how, once again, all things fell right into place.
As you can see, Jim continues to improve and he is doing remarkably well. Keep the prayers coming.
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
~Tina
The reason for my reluctance was not wanting to worship with our church family, but was the idea of all the hugs and handshakes that we would be receiving since we haven't been at church since mid-September the week before Jim's transplant!
Silly me, God takes care of all aspects of our lives, and why did I think He would not have this under control. We got to services and before we entered the doorway, a friend and leader at church came out to lead us in and he already shared with those greeting and meeting, that hand shaking and hugs were limited to only me. My reluctance turned into thankfulness and it was so great to be there!
Our family (Megan, Lindsay, Jackson and Matt) were all there in the back row with two seats for us when we got there. We wanted to sit in the last row to keep Jim out of public way so to speak ( it is only 3 1/2 weeks since his transplant and this morning was the first day he even tried a pair of button-type docker pants, much less being in a car for a 30 minute drive and having to sit in a chair for an hour with his legs not propped up)! Jim was doing great. We decided to have Jim "leave for the restroom" when the children were dismissed for Faith Launch and everyone in the auditorium would be meeting and greeting. Before the time for this we to occur, our pastor, Frank, got up and made some wonderful remarks about Jim being here and how it is early for him to be in a large group, so during the meeting and greeting period, smile at Jim, chat with him, but give Tina a "hit" LOL (he didn't say a hug), handshake, etc. God worked through our church family for us to be there today and for me to have no worries and truly be able to worship with our church family. What a great day.
Our afternoon was spent with Jim resting, a nice long walk and some time of organizing as well as enjoying the warmth of the sunshine and the changing of the seasons. What a great day indeed.
I am so thankful for how our church responded to Jim's strong desire to be at services and how, once again, all things fell right into place.
As you can see, Jim continues to improve and he is doing remarkably well. Keep the prayers coming.
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
~Tina
Friday, October 21, 2011
The Amazing Journey Continues 10.21.11
Today we met with the Transplant "team". Blood work continues to be stable and his medications are going well. Some "as needed" meds have been removed as some of our documentation with "in-put" "out-put". His blood pressure is doing well as is his weight, etc. We are so pleased with how his recovery is coming along. GISG We are now going for blood work once a week and one visit per week to the transplant office. He is still not able to drive, but it's only been 3 1/2 weeks since this transplant, but he will be doing more as time goes on. He is extremely ambulatory and naps less frequently, but when he is "done" he's "done" for a time of resting. So, he continues to improve at a nice pace. I'm so proud of how he is doing and again, so very thankful for the "gift" our angel gave us. How do you every repay someone for such a gift? We decided through dedicated care of Jim's health is the best way to show our appreciation and "repay", and our "angel" agrees. She is also such an amazing young woman!
~Tina
P.S. I'm adding a few more items on the "honey-do-list"...I don't want him to be too bored while he is off work recovering. LOL
~Tina
P.S. I'm adding a few more items on the "honey-do-list"...I don't want him to be too bored while he is off work recovering. LOL
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
10.19.11
Things are continuing to go very well. Walks throughout the day, 2 naps, some light activities. Every day Jim is getting stronger and less bouts of weakness. He is doing amazingly. Tomorrow morning is Thursday, which means routine bloodwork. Friday morning we have our transplant team office visit. It will be nice to meet with the team and see how things are going from their point of view. GISG
This Tuesday I started having "Mimi days", which at this time will be referred to "Mimi and Grumps days". We are happy to be getting back to some form of normalcy. Jackson and Grumps take naps at the same time, which allow Mimi to catch up on things.
Our "angel" started back to work on Monday. She was getting "bored at home", so she was able to go back to work half-days. She is doing very well and bouncing back to her wonderful self! GISG
That's about it from here for now. I felt I should update since I didn't write yesterday.
Keep those prayers coming for Jim's recovery and our family as well as our "angel" and her family.
~Tina
This Tuesday I started having "Mimi days", which at this time will be referred to "Mimi and Grumps days". We are happy to be getting back to some form of normalcy. Jackson and Grumps take naps at the same time, which allow Mimi to catch up on things.
Our "angel" started back to work on Monday. She was getting "bored at home", so she was able to go back to work half-days. She is doing very well and bouncing back to her wonderful self! GISG
That's about it from here for now. I felt I should update since I didn't write yesterday.
Keep those prayers coming for Jim's recovery and our family as well as our "angel" and her family.
~Tina
Monday, October 17, 2011
10.17.11
Today was another good day. Each day Jim continues to get stronger. Our daily walks (2 a day) are increasing in length. Jim's energy level is also continuing to increase. He continues to rest, which is good for his healing process and we continue to limit visits, but have had several visits and phone calls over the last few days. Jim is doing well with "avoiding" other contact due to his resistance being so low because of the medications he is taking. The fact is that rest is important after a major surgery, but the main reason for not having many visitors, and staying out of large enclosed crowded areas, is due to his immune system being weak at this time. Hand shaking and hugs are "off-limits" when Jim greets/meets individuals right now. It's something for him to get used to that's for sure. He is doing amazing well and we are so thankful for how his recovery is going.
Tomorrow is our daughter's 26th birthday. Can't believe that our "baby" is turning 26!! We have a tradtion of having a "favorite meal" prepared and/or going out to an establishment to celebrate, and most times we do both. Last year for Megan's birthday we celebrated with takeout because she was just home a few days after having Jackson (her and Lindsay's son--our grandson). This year Matt, Lindsay, Megan and Jackson will be here at our home to celebrate her birthdaywith one of her favorite homemade dinners. How blessed we are to have our family live so close and also want to be together with each other. So blessed for sure!
~Tina
Tomorrow is our daughter's 26th birthday. Can't believe that our "baby" is turning 26!! We have a tradtion of having a "favorite meal" prepared and/or going out to an establishment to celebrate, and most times we do both. Last year for Megan's birthday we celebrated with takeout because she was just home a few days after having Jackson (her and Lindsay's son--our grandson). This year Matt, Lindsay, Megan and Jackson will be here at our home to celebrate her birthdaywith one of her favorite homemade dinners. How blessed we are to have our family live so close and also want to be together with each other. So blessed for sure!
~Tina
Sunday, October 16, 2011
10.16.11
We would like to thank everyone who came to the Kidney Walk today. We had a great support system with us for the successful day! It went great and $102,000 raised so far! Also want to thank all of you who supported us through your donations and prayers, thoughts, but couldn't walk with us today. The walk improves every year. We were VERY excited about the turnout for Wilmington University/Team Wilson. Our team raise over $7000.00 and donations are still coming in. THANK YOU!!
Jim also was able to attend and meet and greet our team members. He would not have been able to attend without the assistance from our family. Matt and I were at the walk early setting up and getting things ready, while Megan, Lindsay and Jackson waited to come and brought Jim closer to the time the walk was to begin.
It was a touching and emotional day. Each year I react that way to an extend, but this year, we had so much to be thankful for and we had such a great turnout to "celebrate" the day with us. Jim has had a very full weekend, filled with activities and he is doing very well. He continues to amaze me with his recovery and he looks great. Again we are so thankful for this new lease on life. God has blessed us greatly.
Tomorrow morning is routine bloodwork and a rather slower paced day, which is a very good thing. Thank you for your continued support and encouragement.
We are blessed,
Tina
P.S. The EAGLES also won today!!!!
Jim also was able to attend and meet and greet our team members. He would not have been able to attend without the assistance from our family. Matt and I were at the walk early setting up and getting things ready, while Megan, Lindsay and Jackson waited to come and brought Jim closer to the time the walk was to begin.
It was a touching and emotional day. Each year I react that way to an extend, but this year, we had so much to be thankful for and we had such a great turnout to "celebrate" the day with us. Jim has had a very full weekend, filled with activities and he is doing very well. He continues to amaze me with his recovery and he looks great. Again we are so thankful for this new lease on life. God has blessed us greatly.
Tomorrow morning is routine bloodwork and a rather slower paced day, which is a very good thing. Thank you for your continued support and encouragement.
We are blessed,
Tina
P.S. The EAGLES also won today!!!!
Saturday, October 15, 2011
10.15.11
A very busy day! This morning, began with us walking the mall (before it opened), due to the windy conditions and Jim really motored along, yea for him. We did a little shopping at Target, then home. Later in the morning, are daughter, son-in-love, and grandson came over and brought lunch. Lindsay then proceeded to start painting a room that is on "my list of things to do". What a job he is taking on...he'll be back tomorrow after the kidney walk to finish the walls. It's looking Great!!! When he is finished I plan to put a border in the center of the walls around the room, it is our grandchildren room that needed some sprucing up.
Jim was "entertained" by Jackson-our 1-year old grandson throughout the day and stayed up and sitting almost all afternoon. Needless to say, he is very tired now, but all-in-all have a very productive day.
Tomorrow is the kidney walk and our son, Matt and myself need to be there very early for setup, etc, so our daughter, Megan, son-in-love, Lindsay and Jackson will be picking up Jim to bring him to some of the walk. He will have another full day tomorrow, but resting in the afternoon while hopefully watching our EAGLES win over the Redskins.
Jim is doing very well, just don't want him to "over-do-it" with all the activities this weekend. The best medicine for him is having our kids and our precious grandson with us that's for sure. How blessed we truly are.
We are trying to plan our week accordingly so we can possibly attend church services next week on the 23rd. We will need to remind our church family, "no hugs" or many, if any handshakes if we do attend. I'll take all the hugs from everyone for both of us. We have missed worshipping with our church family. Our pastor/minister brought our dinner this evening that his wonderful wife prepared and we told him we hope to come next week. His reply was "don't rush it". So we're going to see how things go and weather permitting, etc. for next Sunday.
We are blessed to have several church family's that continue to love, support, and encourage us. We also have a great network of co-workers, friends, relatives that do the same. How blessed to have such a connection.
Enjoy these gorgeous fall days, we sure are!
~Tina
Jim was "entertained" by Jackson-our 1-year old grandson throughout the day and stayed up and sitting almost all afternoon. Needless to say, he is very tired now, but all-in-all have a very productive day.
Tomorrow is the kidney walk and our son, Matt and myself need to be there very early for setup, etc, so our daughter, Megan, son-in-love, Lindsay and Jackson will be picking up Jim to bring him to some of the walk. He will have another full day tomorrow, but resting in the afternoon while hopefully watching our EAGLES win over the Redskins.
Jim is doing very well, just don't want him to "over-do-it" with all the activities this weekend. The best medicine for him is having our kids and our precious grandson with us that's for sure. How blessed we truly are.
We are trying to plan our week accordingly so we can possibly attend church services next week on the 23rd. We will need to remind our church family, "no hugs" or many, if any handshakes if we do attend. I'll take all the hugs from everyone for both of us. We have missed worshipping with our church family. Our pastor/minister brought our dinner this evening that his wonderful wife prepared and we told him we hope to come next week. His reply was "don't rush it". So we're going to see how things go and weather permitting, etc. for next Sunday.
We are blessed to have several church family's that continue to love, support, and encourage us. We also have a great network of co-workers, friends, relatives that do the same. How blessed to have such a connection.
Enjoy these gorgeous fall days, we sure are!
~Tina
Friday, October 14, 2011
He's still older than me!
Jim continues to exhibit examples of having too much time on his hands. Earlier he humorously said to me that he is 51 years old with a 24 year old kidney. Statistically this could make him around 49 years old and therefore no longer eligible for membership in AARP however, he reassured me that I am still eligible.
I need to end this entry as Jim is calling me. Seems like he cannot find his pain medication: I guess I'm still guiding this recovery! (LOL)
~Tina
P.S. Jim is doing great, just weak and at times, that is hard for him, but as I remind him, he is recovering from a major surgery and it has only been 2 1/2 weeks since the actual surgery. He is making great progress and we are very thankful!
I need to end this entry as Jim is calling me. Seems like he cannot find his pain medication: I guess I'm still guiding this recovery! (LOL)
~Tina
P.S. Jim is doing great, just weak and at times, that is hard for him, but as I remind him, he is recovering from a major surgery and it has only been 2 1/2 weeks since the actual surgery. He is making great progress and we are very thankful!
10.14.11
Today we met with the transplant team. All blood work levels are doing well and medication regiment continues to be modified and tolerated extremely well. We return to the transplant center on the 21st, which is a new step...only reporting once a week (rather than twice: Tues/Fri) to the transplant center! We will still be going for bloodwork two mornings a week at this time because it is extremely important to keep all the blood work levels at the precise levels that are required for Jim's continued great recovery.
We are so thankful for the team at the transplant center. They are excellent at what they do and they are very receptive to the needs of each of their transplant, whether the donor or the recipient, needs! We are blessed to be located so conveniently to the center as well.
Enjoy your weekend! We plan to as well. Thank you for continued prayers, encouragement, meals, visits, cards, offers. We are blessed because of your love for us.
~Tina
We are so thankful for the team at the transplant center. They are excellent at what they do and they are very receptive to the needs of each of their transplant, whether the donor or the recipient, needs! We are blessed to be located so conveniently to the center as well.
Enjoy your weekend! We plan to as well. Thank you for continued prayers, encouragement, meals, visits, cards, offers. We are blessed because of your love for us.
~Tina
Thursday, October 13, 2011
10.13.11
Today was a milestone, it's official, Jim is finished with the visiting nurse. He continues to improve and it has been only 16 days since the transplant. He is doing very well. We will be making more ventures out and about and Jim, weather permitting, is planning on going to the kidney walk for a short time this coming Sunday morning (weather permitting). I am so proud of how well Jim is doing with his recovery. We continue to be so thankful for Dr. Scantlebury, who was Jim's surgeon and the entire group of the Transplant Center team. They rock!!!!
We will still need to be cautious with large crowd contact and individuals that are dealing with sniffles, allergies, etc, but we think we have a way of handling these situations. One obvious thing, is to keep distance from those that are sick or places that have alot of ill individuals. Hand-shakes, will, for the most part, be replaced by "fist-bumps" and hugs/kisses will be VERY limited. This will be different for us because we have a tendency to be great "hand-shakers" as well as "huggers and greeting one-another-with a peck or two"! LOL
Progress is going well and we even had some Mimi and Grumps time today with our precious, perfect grandson, Jackson. He and Grumps both took their afternoon naps around the same time, which gave Mimi a little down-time too. Jackson is one of the best medicines Jim can have! Thankful that he loves being with us almost as much as we love being with him. GIG
Tomorrow morning is our routine appt. with the transplant team. This is a new normal, and we are very, very thankful for it! How blessed we are!
We will still need to be cautious with large crowd contact and individuals that are dealing with sniffles, allergies, etc, but we think we have a way of handling these situations. One obvious thing, is to keep distance from those that are sick or places that have alot of ill individuals. Hand-shakes, will, for the most part, be replaced by "fist-bumps" and hugs/kisses will be VERY limited. This will be different for us because we have a tendency to be great "hand-shakers" as well as "huggers and greeting one-another-with a peck or two"! LOL
Progress is going well and we even had some Mimi and Grumps time today with our precious, perfect grandson, Jackson. He and Grumps both took their afternoon naps around the same time, which gave Mimi a little down-time too. Jackson is one of the best medicines Jim can have! Thankful that he loves being with us almost as much as we love being with him. GIG
Tomorrow morning is our routine appt. with the transplant team. This is a new normal, and we are very, very thankful for it! How blessed we are!
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
10.12.11
Another good day. Only negative was we didn't get to go for any walks due to the liquid sunshine here in Delaware today. Thankful for how Jim continues to improve. He continues to rest, which is the best healing method for him. He had two short visits today as well as mom and dad being with him for a few hours so I could go with our daughter and grandson to his 1-year well-baby checkup and lunch. Thanks again Mom/Dad!!! One of the visits was a personal delivery of our evening meal. Another delicious meal from a dear friend: thanks Debbie and Scott. We are so appreciative of all the meals that are and have been prepared. Tomorrow is "blood work morning" as well as later in the morning the final evaluation from the visiting nurse. We have been blessed with great visiting nurses since Jim has been home from the hospital. What a good option for individuals that had major surgery. Another blessing for sure.
~Tina
~Tina
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
10.11.11
Today was a different day for us. Jim's adventures since the transplant have consisted of going for blood work two times a week and visiting the transplant center two times a week, but today...we ventured to BJ's after the transplant routine office visit! WooHoo, it was a short visit, but a nice change for Jim. Jim continues to improve with each visit and his numbers are staying within normal ranges for this time of the transplant, in other words...He is doing great! We are continuing the walking 2-3 times a day outside and enjoy the time together. I see him getting stronger and I'm so thankful for that. We plan to have our last visiting nurse visit this Thursday as well.
It is also hard to believe that the surgery was only two weeks ago today and Stephanie is back home doing well in Texas and Jim continues to improve and doing so well. GISG Jim's energy level has improved greatly since the surgery and we understand that will continue to improve as time goes on. He continues have no related side-effects to the anti-rejection medications.
We are so thankful for this "gift", it has given Jim the opportunity for a fuller, healthier, stronger life. Thank you "angel" once again we say thank you!
~Tina
It is also hard to believe that the surgery was only two weeks ago today and Stephanie is back home doing well in Texas and Jim continues to improve and doing so well. GISG Jim's energy level has improved greatly since the surgery and we understand that will continue to improve as time goes on. He continues have no related side-effects to the anti-rejection medications.
We are so thankful for this "gift", it has given Jim the opportunity for a fuller, healthier, stronger life. Thank you "angel" once again we say thank you!
~Tina
Monday, October 10, 2011
Philly and Texas living in harmony?
One of the humorous aspects of the kidney transplant has been the fact that Stephanie was born and raised in Dallas, Texas and is a Cowboys fan. As you might imagine, this created quite a dilemma for me. Could an Eagles fan actually accept a Cowboy kidney? Will Eagles blood coagulate as it passes through a Cowboy kidney? Would Stephanie possibly change her allegiance?
After several sleepless nights, I began to consult with family and friends. The initial facial response from most was clear – why would you even consider such a thought! Typically, the verbal response was, “I don’t think so”. A few comment that I should reject the offer - immediately.
Thanks friends and family for your support!
I needed more guidance so I wrote a letter to Andy Reed and received no response from him. However, I did receive a response from security at the Lincoln Financial Field advising me to not attend any games without first contacting their office. I will assume they want to escort me on field for a special recognition.
The next step was one that I did not want to take but it was my last resort. Should I take the drastic step and talk to Stephanie? Eventually I did approach her. The response was clear and immediate. She would take 6 weeks off from work for the surgery and she would make 3 trips to Delaware as part of the transplant process. She would even give me a kidney, but it was a “take it or leave it” proposition – a Cowboy kidney or no kidney.
I quickly apologized and reiterated my thankfulness and appreciation for such a gift.
During the pre-operative procedures and the recovery, we were known as the Cowboy-Eagles transplant. Clearly no one has ever witnessed such a thing! Seriously, this was a humorous running discussion as Stephanie and my hospital rooms were just across the hall from each other.
Now nearly two weeks after the surgery, I am doing well and Stephanie has returned home. I believe that a special anti-rejection drug may have been created and contributed to this success: 1 part soil from the Cowboy Stadium and 1 part from the Linc mixed together with 2 parts beer and 1 chicken wing.
(Clearly, you now know that I have way too much time on my hands and have spent entirely too much time thinking about all of this).
In honor of the successful transplant, friends Dave and Tracy created a special t-shirt for Stephanie and me which accompanies this blog entry.
In closing, perhaps the joining together of an Eagles and Cowboys fan will help to heal the wound which exists between these two worthy opponents. Perhaps somehow, a little love will be shared between the two and it will all be worth it. Probably not!
It is nearly 12:30 and the 3 Stooges are on shortly.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
10.9.11
What a gorgeous Fall Day! This morning we made our first "venture" to our favorite bagel shop, which we do most Sundays before heading to church services. I ordered our "usual" and then we enjoyed it in our car. We then made our way to a local park and went for a small walk, returning home to rest. Jim is doing very well. Though at times, he might "over-do-it" a slight bit, (which to me is a sign of him continuing to get stronger and heal), things are going well. This afternoon we will be watching the EAGLES, as well as taking another walk or two.
We still haven't got the regulating of the over-the-counter pain relief and when prescription-type pain relief should be taken so there is not an increase of pain during the night. I think today we have it the way it should work. We're trying to stay "ahead" of the pain and it is more difficult with OTC drugs. We are so thankful that Jim's recovery is going so well.
This morning we received a text from "our angel" that she was on the plane and getting ready to leave for Texas. We know that prayers are continuing to be said for her and us and we thank you for those thoughts and prayers.
We still haven't got the regulating of the over-the-counter pain relief and when prescription-type pain relief should be taken so there is not an increase of pain during the night. I think today we have it the way it should work. We're trying to stay "ahead" of the pain and it is more difficult with OTC drugs. We are so thankful that Jim's recovery is going so well.
This morning we received a text from "our angel" that she was on the plane and getting ready to leave for Texas. We know that prayers are continuing to be said for her and us and we thank you for those thoughts and prayers.
 |
| A tired birthday-boy! |
Yesterday was a milestone day for our family. Not so much in regards to the recovery, but in our lives. Our grandson, Jackson, celebrated his 1st birthday party (actual birthday is 10.10) with family and friends. Grumps was part of the activities through using skype. Jim's dear "friend" came for a visit while I went to the party. It was a wonderful, amazing, a bit emotional for me too day. We can't believe that it has been a year already that we have been grandparents. How blessed we truly are!!
This is the day that the Lord has made, I'm rejoicing and I'm glad, may you also,
~Tina
Friday, October 7, 2011
10.7.11
Today began with a visit to the transplant center to meet with the team (every Tuesday and Friday right now). All things are looking good. Jim will be home from the hospital a week tomorrow, simply amazing! He continues to improve daily and is now introducing Tylenol into the pain regiment to omit some of the stronger pain meds. Today has been good so far with this change. We have been so blessed with the care that Jim and Stephanie have and continue to receive from the Transplant Center here in Delaware.
We are looking forward to a weekend of gorgeous weather here in Delaware and celebrating our grandson's 1st birthday- (officially October 10th). We will also take advantage of the weather and do some walking around our home area to continue building up Jim's stamina and strength. Like I mentioned, he is doing great!
Another amazing event is that "our angel" will be able to fly home to Texas on Sunday, and her follow up appointment will be done, at this point, in Texas with her next visit to the transplant center in March (approx 6 months from now).
We had a lovely visit with Stephanie (our angel) and her mom this afternoon and also said our good-byes until Stephanie and Bobby return to this area (Bobby is from Hershey, PA) hopefully around the holidays. We have a great relationship with "our angel" and Bobby, and look forward to it continuing to grow as time goes on.
~Grateful for the many things done for us out of pure love,
Tina
We are looking forward to a weekend of gorgeous weather here in Delaware and celebrating our grandson's 1st birthday- (officially October 10th). We will also take advantage of the weather and do some walking around our home area to continue building up Jim's stamina and strength. Like I mentioned, he is doing great!
Another amazing event is that "our angel" will be able to fly home to Texas on Sunday, and her follow up appointment will be done, at this point, in Texas with her next visit to the transplant center in March (approx 6 months from now).
We had a lovely visit with Stephanie (our angel) and her mom this afternoon and also said our good-byes until Stephanie and Bobby return to this area (Bobby is from Hershey, PA) hopefully around the holidays. We have a great relationship with "our angel" and Bobby, and look forward to it continuing to grow as time goes on.
~Grateful for the many things done for us out of pure love,
Tina
Thursday, October 6, 2011
10.6.11
Today was a good day for Jim. In fact, one of the best so far! His pain level is more tolerable with pain medication being taken with longer hours between. The visit today with the visiting nurse was another good one. They are having him begin walking a bit more and trying to build up his stamina with "mini-walks" several times a day. His first walk was with our daughter, Megan, this afternoon and then this evening we walked a bit farther. We live in an "no outlet" cul-de-sac, so we can increase our mini-walks without concern of traffic. What a great time to begin walking with this gorgeous weather Delaware is finally receiving.
Also today, Jim went on his first "social" ride (something different than going for blood work or transplant team office visits). It was a short one, but he did very well. Our daughter and son-in-law provided dinner for "our angel" Stephanie and family, so Jim drove with Megan to "visit" and I had some Mimi-time, until Uncle Matt came by and then we had a Mimi-Uncle time, which I love to have as well!!
We are amazed and thankful for Jim's recovery. Keep those prayers coming. He is basically having no issues with the medications (at this point) and improving daily.
Stephanie and Jim both have appointments tomorrow with the transplant team. Stephanie is hoping to be able to go back to Texas this Sunday, so she is looking forward to hearing that from the "team" at her appointment tomorrow. We meet with the team as well for the 2nd day of the week's appointment. Jim will be meeting with the "team" twice a week for several weeks, which is normal for a transplant recepients. I believe I may have shared that before with you all. Later tomorrow afternoon, Stephanie, "our angel" and her family plan to visit with us at our home. This will probably be the last time we see Stephanie until she and Bobby return to Delaware for her follow up in a few weeks. Keep the prayers going for Stephanie as well, as I know you will.
What a unique bond we have with "our angel". We shared several common interests, etc before, but now...we feel like Stephanie and Bobby are family. They will ALWAYS be a part of "our family". We are blessed to have them in our lives.
I must say this often, but THANK YOU! Thank you for the prayers, the support and the low-salt, healthy dinners that many of you have and plan to provide for us during this time.
Blessed because of you being in our lives,
Tina
Also today, Jim went on his first "social" ride (something different than going for blood work or transplant team office visits). It was a short one, but he did very well. Our daughter and son-in-law provided dinner for "our angel" Stephanie and family, so Jim drove with Megan to "visit" and I had some Mimi-time, until Uncle Matt came by and then we had a Mimi-Uncle time, which I love to have as well!!
We are amazed and thankful for Jim's recovery. Keep those prayers coming. He is basically having no issues with the medications (at this point) and improving daily.
Stephanie and Jim both have appointments tomorrow with the transplant team. Stephanie is hoping to be able to go back to Texas this Sunday, so she is looking forward to hearing that from the "team" at her appointment tomorrow. We meet with the team as well for the 2nd day of the week's appointment. Jim will be meeting with the "team" twice a week for several weeks, which is normal for a transplant recepients. I believe I may have shared that before with you all. Later tomorrow afternoon, Stephanie, "our angel" and her family plan to visit with us at our home. This will probably be the last time we see Stephanie until she and Bobby return to Delaware for her follow up in a few weeks. Keep the prayers going for Stephanie as well, as I know you will.
What a unique bond we have with "our angel". We shared several common interests, etc before, but now...we feel like Stephanie and Bobby are family. They will ALWAYS be a part of "our family". We are blessed to have them in our lives.
I must say this often, but THANK YOU! Thank you for the prayers, the support and the low-salt, healthy dinners that many of you have and plan to provide for us during this time.
Blessed because of you being in our lives,
Tina
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Words from the Receipent
Good afternoon,
Thank you for your expressions of concern and support regarding how things are going related to my recent surgery.
Things continue to go very well and I gain a little strength each day. Yesterday morning I had an appointment with the transplant team and learned that my blood work and kidney function are very good. Actually the numbers related to kidney function are better than they have been in decades! They are on the high side of the normal range (lower numbers are better).
Stephanie (the donor) is doing well and having to adjust to having only one kidney. This means in addition to weakness from the surgery, her level of fatigue is compounded. This should get better over the next few weeks.
Needless to say, the entire process seems just short of a miracle. For example, Stephanie is quite a bit smaller in stature than am I, however, being so young (24 years) over the next year or so, the donated kidney should grow in size and level of function which could result in even better numbers.
My diet has completely flip flopped. More protein, less carbs. Drink a diet cola each day for phosphorus - soda for health reasons, go figure.
The level of support received from family, friends and coworkers has been amazing. Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers.
The appointments yesterday morning basically wore me out for that afternoon however, I managed sitting in the living room to watch the Phillies, rather than from our bedroom.
~Jim
Thank you for your expressions of concern and support regarding how things are going related to my recent surgery.
Things continue to go very well and I gain a little strength each day. Yesterday morning I had an appointment with the transplant team and learned that my blood work and kidney function are very good. Actually the numbers related to kidney function are better than they have been in decades! They are on the high side of the normal range (lower numbers are better).
Stephanie (the donor) is doing well and having to adjust to having only one kidney. This means in addition to weakness from the surgery, her level of fatigue is compounded. This should get better over the next few weeks.
Needless to say, the entire process seems just short of a miracle. For example, Stephanie is quite a bit smaller in stature than am I, however, being so young (24 years) over the next year or so, the donated kidney should grow in size and level of function which could result in even better numbers.
My diet has completely flip flopped. More protein, less carbs. Drink a diet cola each day for phosphorus - soda for health reasons, go figure.
The level of support received from family, friends and coworkers has been amazing. Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers.
The appointments yesterday morning basically wore me out for that afternoon however, I managed sitting in the living room to watch the Phillies, rather than from our bedroom.
~Jim
10.5.11
What a beautiful Morning!! Enjoying the sunshine is part of the recovery today. Visiting nurse stopped by this morning and all things are looking well with only a slight raised blood pressure, which is being regulated with his medications. Today will conists of some fresh air from our patio as well as a short visit from one of Jim's close friend. He continues to have no side effects at this time with the medications and that is a huge Praise! We are still limiting visits, but feel free to email me personally or text about a possible short visit in the next week or so.
Again, I must say that we are so blessed with the delicious meals that so many have and will continue to prepare for us throughout this time. I only have to make our breakfast and lunch options and then I'm freed up to care for Jim and his needs.
He is doing great. He had a great report from the transplant center yesterday and with more rest and each day getting stronger and hopefully less pain he will continue to improve. Our angel, as of yesterday was doing remarkably well and again, we are SO thankful for her servant, giving, spirit! God has surely had His hand in this entire process.
May your day be filled with some outside activity...it's such a gorgeous fall day here in Delaware.
Blessed because of you, "God has given each of you some special abilities; be sure to use them to help each other, passing on to others God's many kinds of blessings." 1 Peter 4:10
Tina
Again, I must say that we are so blessed with the delicious meals that so many have and will continue to prepare for us throughout this time. I only have to make our breakfast and lunch options and then I'm freed up to care for Jim and his needs.
He is doing great. He had a great report from the transplant center yesterday and with more rest and each day getting stronger and hopefully less pain he will continue to improve. Our angel, as of yesterday was doing remarkably well and again, we are SO thankful for her servant, giving, spirit! God has surely had His hand in this entire process.
May your day be filled with some outside activity...it's such a gorgeous fall day here in Delaware.
Blessed because of you, "God has given each of you some special abilities; be sure to use them to help each other, passing on to others God's many kinds of blessings." 1 Peter 4:10
Tina
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
10.4.11
Home a resting after a long morning at the transplant center office for the first post-op visit. The office visit went very well, Praises!!! Jim's numbers are looking very good and his incision is healing nicely. There were some changes (minor) made to his medications, which will be an on-going "new normal" for us. As we were waiting in the office for our visit, I was reminded just how amazing God made our bodies and when healthy, how remarkable the healing process is. Last week this time we were praying and waiting for the surgery to be completed and today we are waiting to see how well the surgery results are doing. AMAZING!!
Jim continues to rest and we are so appreciative of how you all are respecting our request for no to limited visitors. I see him benefiting from this decision for this week. He is less "cloudy" with each day and he is wanting to be sitting up more than laying, which is all good. His appetite is going well and we have little to no symptoms from the recent medication regiment. Some things, as mentioned above, have been changed today, but we still foresee his reactions to be minimal, if any. All is good!!! We have the visiting nurse coming tomorrow morning and bloodwork and the visiting nurse on Thursday, followed by another transplant office visit on Friday morning. The office visit/bloodwork will be ongoing but will decrease from twice a week to once a week, to every-other-week, to monthly, and so on. We are blessed to be connected with such wonderful Transplant Center here in Delaware.
Our "angel", Stephanie continues to improve and is doing well. She has a followup appointment this Friday as well.
Thank you for the ongoing prayers, love, and support! A special thanks to all of you "family" here in Delaware who continue to provide healthy, delicious meals for both of our families. Thank you also for all the other offers that you have made to assists wherever we need. We are blessed and appreciate you all.
~Tina
Jim continues to rest and we are so appreciative of how you all are respecting our request for no to limited visitors. I see him benefiting from this decision for this week. He is less "cloudy" with each day and he is wanting to be sitting up more than laying, which is all good. His appetite is going well and we have little to no symptoms from the recent medication regiment. Some things, as mentioned above, have been changed today, but we still foresee his reactions to be minimal, if any. All is good!!! We have the visiting nurse coming tomorrow morning and bloodwork and the visiting nurse on Thursday, followed by another transplant office visit on Friday morning. The office visit/bloodwork will be ongoing but will decrease from twice a week to once a week, to every-other-week, to monthly, and so on. We are blessed to be connected with such wonderful Transplant Center here in Delaware.
Our "angel", Stephanie continues to improve and is doing well. She has a followup appointment this Friday as well.
Thank you for the ongoing prayers, love, and support! A special thanks to all of you "family" here in Delaware who continue to provide healthy, delicious meals for both of our families. Thank you also for all the other offers that you have made to assists wherever we need. We are blessed and appreciate you all.
~Tina
Monday, October 3, 2011
10.3.11
Getting stronger everyday! GISG!!! We had a pretty uneventful day and those are the best when recovering from major surgery of any kind. Early morning bloodwork for our 1st follow-up appointment tomorrow with the transplant team post-surgery. Visiting nurse shared a few questions with the transplant team while she was here for the visit, but all-in-all everything is progressing along nicely. Jim is doing well.
Thank you for checking in on the blog and praying for both Jim and "our angel".
Blessings,
Tina
Thank you for checking in on the blog and praying for both Jim and "our angel".
Blessings,
Tina
Sunday, October 2, 2011
10.2.11
Thankful for Jim being able to have a decent restful night, even with being awaken for some pain medication and a few other things. All-in-all, much better sleeping at home than in the hospital! Stephanie also after finding a comfortable way to rest, did for much of the night as well: update from her sweet hubby, Bobby!
Jim is improving and his numbers that we are keeping track of are staying "on track". Tuesday we have blood work, so those numbers will be revealed at our appointment with the transplant team, which is also Tuesday and also means a long day ahead for Jim!
Jim is weak and he wears out easily. I plan to once again, ask that visits be limited to our immediate family only and to those who so graciously are bringing meals to our home this week, please understand. If he is awake when you drop off the food, definitely say "hi", but we need to limit the visits this week. I will say, pain medication is a VERY GOOD THING!!
As I said before, Jim is doing remarkably well and I'm so thankful for God's healing hand on him and "our angel". I ask that you keep the prayers coming for all. We feel them, they are working and we're thankful.
Blessed because of you,
Tina
Jim is improving and his numbers that we are keeping track of are staying "on track". Tuesday we have blood work, so those numbers will be revealed at our appointment with the transplant team, which is also Tuesday and also means a long day ahead for Jim!
Jim is weak and he wears out easily. I plan to once again, ask that visits be limited to our immediate family only and to those who so graciously are bringing meals to our home this week, please understand. If he is awake when you drop off the food, definitely say "hi", but we need to limit the visits this week. I will say, pain medication is a VERY GOOD THING!!
As I said before, Jim is doing remarkably well and I'm so thankful for God's healing hand on him and "our angel". I ask that you keep the prayers coming for all. We feel them, they are working and we're thankful.
Blessed because of you,
Tina
Saturday, October 1, 2011
10.1.11
T H E Y R H O M E!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rest, rest, rest, and more rest for both of them. Jim will have a visit from the visiting nurse tomorrow followed by his first follow up appointment on Tuesday morning after blood work. Our angel, Stephanie, will have her follow up appointment this Friday and possibly leave for Texas (her home) on the 9th. This is not written in stone, but that is her plan at this time.
We are all receiving the benefit of many of your talents with the meal preparations. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Having this service provided for us allows me to concentrate solely on Jim without thinking about making dinner. I have to only prepare breakfast and lunch, which allows me to keep his food menu in balance. THANK YOU TO ALL.
Keep the prayers coming as both Stephanie and Jim continue the healing process. Thank you for the prayers for our families as well.
Thank you for being God's hands and feet in serving us through prayer, encouragement and physical support.
We love and appreciate you,
Jim, Tina and our family ~"This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God."- 2Cor 9:12
Rest, rest, rest, and more rest for both of them. Jim will have a visit from the visiting nurse tomorrow followed by his first follow up appointment on Tuesday morning after blood work. Our angel, Stephanie, will have her follow up appointment this Friday and possibly leave for Texas (her home) on the 9th. This is not written in stone, but that is her plan at this time.
We are all receiving the benefit of many of your talents with the meal preparations. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Having this service provided for us allows me to concentrate solely on Jim without thinking about making dinner. I have to only prepare breakfast and lunch, which allows me to keep his food menu in balance. THANK YOU TO ALL.
Keep the prayers coming as both Stephanie and Jim continue the healing process. Thank you for the prayers for our families as well.
Thank you for being God's hands and feet in serving us through prayer, encouragement and physical support.
We love and appreciate you,
Jim, Tina and our family ~"This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God."- 2Cor 9:12
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