I know that many of you worry when I do not post every day. Some days like yesterday bring such discouraging reports that I hesitate to share them, believing that a new day may bring an improvement.
That was the case today as many of the fears brought on by some of the tests seemed to be unfounded. Though his digestive system still does not function all the time, there is no ileitus and no malfunction of the pancreas. So hallelujah. And though he did not respond hardly at all today, I heard he was quite active around dawn and very expressive to those who came to sit with him while I wrote. He has a worrisome recurrent fever and several manifestations of his serious UTI. The doctors are hoping that this is associated with passing of the stone in his right kidney. May God grant him that: Otherwise in a couple of weeks he will have to be transported to the hospital to remove the stone and transported back — and this one-way trip last week has set him back enormously.
His lung issues seem much, much better. The respiratory therapists believe he may be able to move up a level, so to speak, soon. When the pulmonologist visits tomorrow I hope he will concur.
My writing is going very, very well; which is probably one of the reasons I feel unable to communicate much tonight. I am spent.
Other good news: Two nurses from the Presbyterian ICU came to our church yesterday, bringing their families. They wanted to see such a marvelous church which had shown such incredible service and love. I am so happy about that. I want those two ladies to benefit from our extraordinary fellowship. Another ICU nurse told me today she’d been reading my Hinge book and had been convicted by it, and asked for our church address. And the charge nurse at Specialty tonight told me his wife took his copy away until she could read it. So– no matter what the circumstances, God’s Word is being shared. All the glory to Him.
I realize that many people who were very wrought up about Dan’s illness early on may be feeling some “compassion fatigue.” Please don’t worry if you seem to flag in this. The doctors said from the beginning this would be a long haul, and I assured them I was in it for as long as it takes. Just pray for us — that’s all I ask. I am doing well, full of faith and optimism, and most of all continually growing faith in the character of our wonderful God and compassionate Savior and comforting Spirit.
It is so cool to hear how your church and family are being used to minister to the folks caring for Dan! Also, I’m happy that you have the strength, energy and focus to write. We’ll never stop praying! Xoxo
“Just pray for us — that’s all I ask.” This made me weep, Latayne. You post when you are able, even the smallest bit, to remind us to pray.
I’m glad the writing went well yesterday. I’m thankful that God’s Word is being shared in so many ways in, around and through you.
I’ll keep praying.
Hello, Latayne –
I want you to know that I, also,. am here for the long-haul. I respect the fact that you are doing two things ALL the time — loving Dan as you committed yourself to do so many years ago, and writing as God directs you. THANK YOU — for posting at ALL, let alone as you do. It is MOST helpful for those of us who share some small part of your burdens. May our LORD continue to give you HIS strength and direction, not to mention timely physical healing for Dan. And, in the unlikely event that it is possible, please let me provide any possible assistance on any of your projects. May God continue to bless you — even when it seems that you are no longer able to bless Him! HE is our strenmgth; we are NOT His strength!!!
Morning Latayne. Reading how the Lord is using this trial to spread His kingdom…it’s just beautiful. I have eyes full of rejoicing tears. Love you and will be praying the duration for you both.
Latayne,
This has been a long journey already. I can understand why nurses,and others are seeking out your church and your faith. When people see how you have been there for Danny, and how your children have been there for you and Danny, and how your church members have been there for all of you,….well, who would not want to be a part of something so loving and so kind?
Pete
Dear Laytayne,
I just got this after asking Steve Stewart about Dan. I’m so thankful to be able to know how you both are. We both started praying when you sent out the first call and are blessed to be included in the multitude praying for Dan and for you. I think so often of his singing to Marilyn and to all of us and then I think of the hospital you were to me and then to Sara. You were a gift from the Lord. I know God is doing amazing things in you and through you (as I read here) and your faith is the victory. I’m so thankful for that. love and asking the Father, emily & steve
Latayne, Praise God and the Mountainside Church of Christ!! I was so emotional when I read about the families attending church b/c of the love and service they saw through your church family. That is what it’s all about. I thank you God for that. AMEN. Keeping you daily in my prayers. Diane
They will know we are Christians by our love…and be drawn to the Savior so sweetly. I will pray that these families keep saying yes to Jesus.
As Jesus stood in front of Lazarus’ tomb, he commanded that the stone be rolled away. I’m praying he gives the command for Dan’s stone to be rolled away, too.
And I’m so blessed to hear that you are writing and writing well. Sister, that’s music to my ears…and a bit of a kick in the bum. I’m out of excuses. Tomorrow! Love you, honey.
We are continuing to pray. God’s faithfulness is being shared. And we are so encouraged to hear that your writing is going well. You are in our hearts and prayers each and every day. Praying in the night hours. Hugs. Shelly and Wanda
I continue to pray for you every single day. Praying God’s peace over you.