Carolyn's sister, Suzanne, sent us this amazing letter to boost our spirits. We'll post a bunch of letters like these as they come in so more of you can get to know the many facets of Jack's life and how he connects with and impacts people in a positive way. Without further ado:
••••
Dear Jack--
First thing, I apologize for waiting so long to say what you mean to me. For years I have had the desire to write you, only to be overwhelmed by fear. Today, by God's grace, I am fearless.
I have so many fond memories of you, and look forward to many more. Being the only healthy male role model in my life, I have learned what appropriate male behavior includes.
Since I am better at listing, here is my list about situations, loving moments, etc. where you have impacted met:
1. You gave me my first baseball and glove when I was 5 yrs. old. It was in a plastic toy package, and I was so amazed that you thought of me. As I became older, baseball was a huge activity when I played with the boys.
2. You allowed me to visit everyone in Boston as frequently as I wanted.
3. You have shared your children with me.
4. I was in awe when I watched how you adored your little girl, Courtenay. Amazed by your affection and attention to her.
5. I remember you and Jonathan being late for dinner in France because the 2 of you were calculating the speed of light in metrics (Jonathan was 5 years old!)
6. In a brotherly manner, when I was 14, you hid behind a door and scared the shit out of me. Now I can look back and laugh.
7. I love how you laugh at my jokes. Your sense of humor adds to any conversation around the dinner table.
8. I have admired the fatherly relationship you have with your daughter.
9. You adore my sister.
10. You exalt the Lord with your humility, grace, and submission to His will. We have a blood relation, as siblings, in Christ.
11. Your example, by His grace, is a testimony to the mercy of our Lord and Savior!
12. You now have the opportunity to experience peace beyond all understanding in Christ, as I have had with my past health challenges.
13. You know how to share your massive amount of knowledge in a way that someone like me can understand.
14. In more ways than one, you are an awesome teacher.
15. Some of my fondest memories are from being with you on your family's farm. We fished; you taught me how to catch guppies as bait; I had my first wonderful taste of spring water from a cavern in the woods; I rode the tractor with you (and by myself, at which point you saved my life); I milked a cow; tasted homemade butter; slept under a tin roof and listened to the rain.
16. We have laughed.
17. You have trusted me with your children on various trips.
18. You have been kind and gracious to my family.
19. In spite of not wanting pets in your house, you allowed us to bring Elizabeth and Alex, and even enjoyed their unique personalities.
20. You love my parents.
21. I have never heard you say an unkind word.
22. You handle your concerns with Carolyn behind closed doors.
23. By the grace of God, you are rejoicing in your new found opportunity.
24. You helped work on my fort with John Drees and showed us how to make a lock out of wood for the door.
25. You played with me, at my level, when I was a child.
26. You have represented a life of structure and routine which I am wanting to incorporate in my life.
27. You have lived a humble life, free from self-promotion.
28. You never have said a harsh word to me.
29. I love your laughter.
30. You love your children and represent this love in a way that a father should.
31. You have shared your parents and siblings with me.
32. You have given me an example of so many traits I want in my husband.
33. You have not taken life for granted.
34. You respect my sister.
35. You have provided for your family.
36. In spite of all you have heard or know about me, I have never felt judged or condemned by you.
Jack, I rejoice in seeing, hearing, and knowing how the Lord is blessing you and your family during this opportune time. I am grateful for your example of perseverance, joy, and testimony of Him! What an amazing miracle the Lord is blessing you with in the midst of such a challenge.
You are in my prayers. No matter where your current travels may take you, I know the journey will be amazing and the destination will be glorious. Thank you for being such a substantial, loving influence in my life. Praise be to God for you!
I love you with my whole heart-- Suzanne
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Sunday, September 2, 2007
This Weekend
Hello everyone:
This weekend was wonderful. We were flanked by friends and family as everyone embraces us with their care. On Saturday, Jack's CEO, Victor Vejins and his lovely wife Libby, along with one of his board members visited us. We enjoyed a delicious blueberry pie that Victor and Libby brought. Along with being a beautiful day, we enjoyed the fun, food, and fellowship of dear people. Jack thoroughly enjoyed himself. Yesterday, a former student of Jack's Jim Bittner and his charming wife, Pam came along with MIT colleagues the Armstrongs and Hattons. Among the flowers and delicious food they brought, we spent another lovely afternoon with our professional family. It is most amazing to see the outpouring of tender, loving care which was also felt by me at church in the morning by our church friends and pastor.
Today, was a no visitor day. I took Jonathan and Megan to the airport around 5 AM only to return and sleep another 2 hours. We had a lovely, wonderful day talking, sharing, crying, laughing, and enjoying each moment in a different kind of way.
Some very good Jack acheivements are showering, dressing, descending and asending stairs on his own. He hasn't mastered breakfast yet but that will be the next step!!! Remember my breakfast story and his illusions! Today he clocked about 1 mile of walking (not his usual 3-5 miles) but a great beginning. We were out measuring the walkway and of course he was marking out the distance around our house. He hasn't done his calculations yet to determine how far he walked but I am sure we will know soon. Our massage therapist has him doing breathing exercises as well which he also did today. I came home yesterday to find him unloading the dishwasher. Things are looking much improved.
Megan and Jonathan have begun their hunt for apartments. I think they have decided Somerville and/or Medford could be good options for them. They have a lot on their plate in organizing a fairly hasty move to Boston to be with us and help support us and as Jonathan said, "spend as much time with his Dad as possible". We desire your prayers for living space and jobs for them. Our dear friends, the Browns (Bob Brown is now President of Boston University) will be receiving their resumes for possible job leads.
This evening we drove down to Nano-C, Jack's company, where Jack cleaned his desk a little, washed his coffee cup, picked up some more work (Victor will be happy with this one) and left some treats for the Nano-C family to enjoy this week.
I got to swim and work out today so my endomorphins are over-riding my new best friend, adrenaline.
We are slowly adjusting to our new lifestyle with the help of so many people.
We thank the Lord for all of you and look forward to much more interaction than we have had in recent times. So many of you have offered so much. You will hear from me, I am sure.
Have a blessed week.
Carolyn
This weekend was wonderful. We were flanked by friends and family as everyone embraces us with their care. On Saturday, Jack's CEO, Victor Vejins and his lovely wife Libby, along with one of his board members visited us. We enjoyed a delicious blueberry pie that Victor and Libby brought. Along with being a beautiful day, we enjoyed the fun, food, and fellowship of dear people. Jack thoroughly enjoyed himself. Yesterday, a former student of Jack's Jim Bittner and his charming wife, Pam came along with MIT colleagues the Armstrongs and Hattons. Among the flowers and delicious food they brought, we spent another lovely afternoon with our professional family. It is most amazing to see the outpouring of tender, loving care which was also felt by me at church in the morning by our church friends and pastor.
Today, was a no visitor day. I took Jonathan and Megan to the airport around 5 AM only to return and sleep another 2 hours. We had a lovely, wonderful day talking, sharing, crying, laughing, and enjoying each moment in a different kind of way.
Some very good Jack acheivements are showering, dressing, descending and asending stairs on his own. He hasn't mastered breakfast yet but that will be the next step!!! Remember my breakfast story and his illusions! Today he clocked about 1 mile of walking (not his usual 3-5 miles) but a great beginning. We were out measuring the walkway and of course he was marking out the distance around our house. He hasn't done his calculations yet to determine how far he walked but I am sure we will know soon. Our massage therapist has him doing breathing exercises as well which he also did today. I came home yesterday to find him unloading the dishwasher. Things are looking much improved.
Megan and Jonathan have begun their hunt for apartments. I think they have decided Somerville and/or Medford could be good options for them. They have a lot on their plate in organizing a fairly hasty move to Boston to be with us and help support us and as Jonathan said, "spend as much time with his Dad as possible". We desire your prayers for living space and jobs for them. Our dear friends, the Browns (Bob Brown is now President of Boston University) will be receiving their resumes for possible job leads.
This evening we drove down to Nano-C, Jack's company, where Jack cleaned his desk a little, washed his coffee cup, picked up some more work (Victor will be happy with this one) and left some treats for the Nano-C family to enjoy this week.
I got to swim and work out today so my endomorphins are over-riding my new best friend, adrenaline.
We are slowly adjusting to our new lifestyle with the help of so many people.
We thank the Lord for all of you and look forward to much more interaction than we have had in recent times. So many of you have offered so much. You will hear from me, I am sure.
Have a blessed week.
Carolyn
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Encouragement
Good morning everyone:
As Jack and I were getting ready for bed last evening around 11 PM after an intense, exhausting day, I observed a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face. One of the joys of a long marriage, you learn that even the facial changes have meaning. Jack has always had a keen sense of humor and teasing which is what I thought when I observed this twinkle and smile. I said, OK what are your thoughts? With a big smile, he said, I feel so content. He said Jonathan had sat on the porch and talked to him a long time last evening while I was updating Jack's email. He said Courtenay had given him a letter that she wrote him. He said "My cup runneth over"! What a marvelous comfort to see such amazing grace and peace. I pray that the Lord will provide us with this same indwelling of His spirit as the new day begins.
Jack was very sweet the other day. "He said how much can Carolyn do? How much can you ask her to do?" Please pray that the adrenaline will keep flowing but mostly that the Lord will continue to bring me strength, patience, and great love but mostly the ability to be an honor to our Almighty God.
Have a wonderful day - another beautiful day in the neighborhood.
I forgot to thank Dana, one of my staff, for her delicious dessert on Friday and Lynne, a MD friend of ours, who sent a proprietary supplemental for Jack. We were also blessed with another delicious meal from our dear neighbors, Judy and Josh who are like family to us.
Thank you seems so insufficient but it is what we have for language.
Blessings to all of you,
Carolyn
As Jack and I were getting ready for bed last evening around 11 PM after an intense, exhausting day, I observed a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face. One of the joys of a long marriage, you learn that even the facial changes have meaning. Jack has always had a keen sense of humor and teasing which is what I thought when I observed this twinkle and smile. I said, OK what are your thoughts? With a big smile, he said, I feel so content. He said Jonathan had sat on the porch and talked to him a long time last evening while I was updating Jack's email. He said Courtenay had given him a letter that she wrote him. He said "My cup runneth over"! What a marvelous comfort to see such amazing grace and peace. I pray that the Lord will provide us with this same indwelling of His spirit as the new day begins.
Jack was very sweet the other day. "He said how much can Carolyn do? How much can you ask her to do?" Please pray that the adrenaline will keep flowing but mostly that the Lord will continue to bring me strength, patience, and great love but mostly the ability to be an honor to our Almighty God.
Have a wonderful day - another beautiful day in the neighborhood.
I forgot to thank Dana, one of my staff, for her delicious dessert on Friday and Lynne, a MD friend of ours, who sent a proprietary supplemental for Jack. We were also blessed with another delicious meal from our dear neighbors, Judy and Josh who are like family to us.
Thank you seems so insufficient but it is what we have for language.
Blessings to all of you,
Carolyn
Jack Update
Hello everyone:
We had a wonderful day today. Many thanks to the visits from Jack's company's CEO and one of the board members along with their lovely wives. We had pie and iced tea and enjoyed the comforts of our lovely back porch as we laughed and talked and shared. In our hasty busy lives, it is wonderful that some things stop us, help us to take pause and share "smelling the roses".
I want to share another thing about Jack and me. When we first married, Jack had this illusion that I would make him breakfast each morning. I think I did for one day within the first couple of weeks we were married. I told him that he got serious when he decided he wanted me to make his breakfast which I have done gladly since he returned from the hospital. I really think Jack is enjoying the added pampering - I am enjoying pampering him a little.
Jack was up, showered, and dressed this morning before I even knew he was up. He is adapting very easily to these changes. I am sure it is that engineering mind that he has. He is cautiously climbing and descending our stairs. He also gained some additional functional use of his left hand. The neuromuscular massage therapist said it would take about 6 more sessions working with him weekly.
Instead of continuing to do emails, Jonathan is creating a blog - we will be posting regular updates on the blog. I will send how to access it when it is established which is suppose to be tomorrow.
Thanks to Lee and Paul for the delicious barbeque and other goodies. It was most appreciated.
Have a wonderful labor day weekend. May the Lord bless and keep you all the days of your lives.
carolyn
We had a wonderful day today. Many thanks to the visits from Jack's company's CEO and one of the board members along with their lovely wives. We had pie and iced tea and enjoyed the comforts of our lovely back porch as we laughed and talked and shared. In our hasty busy lives, it is wonderful that some things stop us, help us to take pause and share "smelling the roses".
I want to share another thing about Jack and me. When we first married, Jack had this illusion that I would make him breakfast each morning. I think I did for one day within the first couple of weeks we were married. I told him that he got serious when he decided he wanted me to make his breakfast which I have done gladly since he returned from the hospital. I really think Jack is enjoying the added pampering - I am enjoying pampering him a little.
Jack was up, showered, and dressed this morning before I even knew he was up. He is adapting very easily to these changes. I am sure it is that engineering mind that he has. He is cautiously climbing and descending our stairs. He also gained some additional functional use of his left hand. The neuromuscular massage therapist said it would take about 6 more sessions working with him weekly.
Instead of continuing to do emails, Jonathan is creating a blog - we will be posting regular updates on the blog. I will send how to access it when it is established which is suppose to be tomorrow.
Thanks to Lee and Paul for the delicious barbeque and other goodies. It was most appreciated.
Have a wonderful labor day weekend. May the Lord bless and keep you all the days of your lives.
carolyn
Friday, August 31, 2007
Today
Hello Everyone:
Today is the first day of the rest of our lives. I must quote from Psalm 90:12-17 because this message was what permeated my mind today as we heard the pathology; especially Psalm 90:12.
"Teach me to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Relent, O Lord, How long will it be?
Have compassion on your servants.
Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love,
that we may sing for joy and be glad in all our days.
Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us,
for as many years we have seen trouble.
May your deeds be shown to your servants,
your splendor to their children.
May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us;
establish the work of our hands for us-
yes, establish the work of our hands."
The Lord has clearly demonstrated that He has established the work of Jack's hands. I commented to our children and the Drs. today that if we had accomplished half of what Jack has accomplished in his life, this world would be a better place. Jack has touch so many people in his life that it is unimaginable. Most of you know that scientifically, he has been recognized around the world. The country of France recognized him with an honorary doctors degree several years ago as did the Colorado College of Mines in the US. I could write pages of Jack's human accomplishments but he would be embarrassed. He has always commented that he has just worked hard. At an international symposium in Australia several years ago, he received a gold medal for his work. Courtenay was with him at this ceremony (flying for 24 hours is not something I do). When people came up to her and asked her what she thought about this great honor, her reply was - " I think he deserves it, he works really hard"!!! No one will argue with that statement.
Jack's hardest job will likely lie ahead. We met today with the neuro-oncologist and oncology-radiologist at MGH. I think we startled them when they walked into rooms with all of us there with him. Thankfully, Jonathan and Megan arrived safely. Jack's pathology is stage 4 (most aggressive) glioblastoma astrocytoma - translated as arising from the astrocyte cells naturally occuring in the brain. It is inoperable, incurable. The treatment goal is to arrest the growth. They often reoccur. It is the most common form of brain tumor that exists. The first appointment was with the neuro oncologist - Dr. Plotkin - he looked and acted more lawyer like complete with a bowtie. He was all business. When I asked what the life expectancy would be without treatment -he said a few months; and with treatment - he said we don't like to answer that question at this time - he has a patient that is 4 years out. Standard treatment is 30 days (6 weeks - 5 continous days/week) for radiation coupled with Tamodar (chemotherapy - 1 pill/day for 5 days/ month for the rest of his life). Of course, they immediately started introducing us to experimental drugs options; 3 people have done one of them; 17 people another; and the other one that have had 2 or 3. Jack has not decided on the experimental drugs. Dr. Plotkin told us that we need to schedule a radiology appointment and that it would be 1-2 weeks out; that the Drs are really backed up. I immediately said - our children are in from CA until Monday - is there any chance we could have an appointment today. They said they would try - the nurse came back and asked if we could be there at 12:45 PM. It was 10:30 AM at this time. How abundantly the Lord provides the most minute details of our lives - if I don't learn anything from this experience, I hope it is this point.
We got to the radiology department. We met with Dr. Helen Shih and her resident, Dr. Patel. Both very warm and caring - much less business like. The Lord knew we needed to be embraced in the sweetness of these two. She reiterated much of what Dr. Plotkin told us. Dr. Shih pointed out to us that the goal is arrest the growth and have as few side effects as possible to maintain quality of life for Jack as long as possible. We do not know what tomorrow holds for us but we are confident in who holds tomorrow. In order for his head not to move during the 2 minutes of treatment, they made a mask for him that will hold his head in one place. Radiation begins September 14 at 9:30 AM. Tamodar will begin at the same time along with any experimental tx we may consider. We are also going to include some alternative methods as well.
I told Jack that when we married that it was for better or worse. I think we both are thinking this is the better. We are sharing so many of our feelings. Our Jonathan and Megan have decided that they are moving back to spend as much time with us as possible and support us in all ways. This is an answer to prayer. Jack had just commented on how this event might bring Jonathan closer. If anyone knows anyone is post production at advertising companies, please contact Jonathan at 323-304-8269 or jon@apelike.net. Megan is the international studies coordinator at Loyola University in LA. Ditto on Megan and a job for her.
It has been an arduous day but the Lord has sustained us through yet another beautiful day.
Carolee and Harry - I forgot to thank you for the lovely gift.
Karen, Jim, and children - thank you for the delicious dinner on Thursday evening.
You won't believe it but as of yesterday, we are out of pioneer land and back in the 21st century with running water in the kitchen - if anyone ever needs kitchen or bath updates or redo work, please contact Carole's Kitchen and Bath in Woburn at 781-933-3339 (Frank Purdy in particular or Gene Fredey)- they have bent over backwards to help us get our kitchen functional along with our Loftus Heating and Plumbing in Winchester and Bob Holbrook, our wonderful electrician - amazing efforts from these wonderful people. They were like an orchestra playing in this house yesterday. They completed their jobs in time for me to go get Megan and Jonathan.
We want to thank all of you sweet people for your love, care, compassion, and legions of prayers from around the globe. Thanks Benno for your call; thanks Ushe from Frankfurt for your call. Thanks to all of you for your reponsive emails.
I close with a quote from Job 42:1-2 - "Then Job replied to the Lord - I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted". Thanks be to God,
Carolyn
Today is the first day of the rest of our lives. I must quote from Psalm 90:12-17 because this message was what permeated my mind today as we heard the pathology; especially Psalm 90:12.
"Teach me to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Relent, O Lord, How long will it be?
Have compassion on your servants.
Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love,
that we may sing for joy and be glad in all our days.
Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us,
for as many years we have seen trouble.
May your deeds be shown to your servants,
your splendor to their children.
May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us;
establish the work of our hands for us-
yes, establish the work of our hands."
The Lord has clearly demonstrated that He has established the work of Jack's hands. I commented to our children and the Drs. today that if we had accomplished half of what Jack has accomplished in his life, this world would be a better place. Jack has touch so many people in his life that it is unimaginable. Most of you know that scientifically, he has been recognized around the world. The country of France recognized him with an honorary doctors degree several years ago as did the Colorado College of Mines in the US. I could write pages of Jack's human accomplishments but he would be embarrassed. He has always commented that he has just worked hard. At an international symposium in Australia several years ago, he received a gold medal for his work. Courtenay was with him at this ceremony (flying for 24 hours is not something I do). When people came up to her and asked her what she thought about this great honor, her reply was - " I think he deserves it, he works really hard"!!! No one will argue with that statement.
Jack's hardest job will likely lie ahead. We met today with the neuro-oncologist and oncology-radiologist at MGH. I think we startled them when they walked into rooms with all of us there with him. Thankfully, Jonathan and Megan arrived safely. Jack's pathology is stage 4 (most aggressive) glioblastoma astrocytoma - translated as arising from the astrocyte cells naturally occuring in the brain. It is inoperable, incurable. The treatment goal is to arrest the growth. They often reoccur. It is the most common form of brain tumor that exists. The first appointment was with the neuro oncologist - Dr. Plotkin - he looked and acted more lawyer like complete with a bowtie. He was all business. When I asked what the life expectancy would be without treatment -he said a few months; and with treatment - he said we don't like to answer that question at this time - he has a patient that is 4 years out. Standard treatment is 30 days (6 weeks - 5 continous days/week) for radiation coupled with Tamodar (chemotherapy - 1 pill/day for 5 days/ month for the rest of his life). Of course, they immediately started introducing us to experimental drugs options; 3 people have done one of them; 17 people another; and the other one that have had 2 or 3. Jack has not decided on the experimental drugs. Dr. Plotkin told us that we need to schedule a radiology appointment and that it would be 1-2 weeks out; that the Drs are really backed up. I immediately said - our children are in from CA until Monday - is there any chance we could have an appointment today. They said they would try - the nurse came back and asked if we could be there at 12:45 PM. It was 10:30 AM at this time. How abundantly the Lord provides the most minute details of our lives - if I don't learn anything from this experience, I hope it is this point.
We got to the radiology department. We met with Dr. Helen Shih and her resident, Dr. Patel. Both very warm and caring - much less business like. The Lord knew we needed to be embraced in the sweetness of these two. She reiterated much of what Dr. Plotkin told us. Dr. Shih pointed out to us that the goal is arrest the growth and have as few side effects as possible to maintain quality of life for Jack as long as possible. We do not know what tomorrow holds for us but we are confident in who holds tomorrow. In order for his head not to move during the 2 minutes of treatment, they made a mask for him that will hold his head in one place. Radiation begins September 14 at 9:30 AM. Tamodar will begin at the same time along with any experimental tx we may consider. We are also going to include some alternative methods as well.
I told Jack that when we married that it was for better or worse. I think we both are thinking this is the better. We are sharing so many of our feelings. Our Jonathan and Megan have decided that they are moving back to spend as much time with us as possible and support us in all ways. This is an answer to prayer. Jack had just commented on how this event might bring Jonathan closer. If anyone knows anyone is post production at advertising companies, please contact Jonathan at 323-304-8269 or jon@apelike.net. Megan is the international studies coordinator at Loyola University in LA. Ditto on Megan and a job for her.
It has been an arduous day but the Lord has sustained us through yet another beautiful day.
Carolee and Harry - I forgot to thank you for the lovely gift.
Karen, Jim, and children - thank you for the delicious dinner on Thursday evening.
You won't believe it but as of yesterday, we are out of pioneer land and back in the 21st century with running water in the kitchen - if anyone ever needs kitchen or bath updates or redo work, please contact Carole's Kitchen and Bath in Woburn at 781-933-3339 (Frank Purdy in particular or Gene Fredey)- they have bent over backwards to help us get our kitchen functional along with our Loftus Heating and Plumbing in Winchester and Bob Holbrook, our wonderful electrician - amazing efforts from these wonderful people. They were like an orchestra playing in this house yesterday. They completed their jobs in time for me to go get Megan and Jonathan.
We want to thank all of you sweet people for your love, care, compassion, and legions of prayers from around the globe. Thanks Benno for your call; thanks Ushe from Frankfurt for your call. Thanks to all of you for your reponsive emails.
I close with a quote from Job 42:1-2 - "Then Job replied to the Lord - I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted". Thanks be to God,
Carolyn
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Update
Hello all:
Hopefully, by tomorrow, emails will be sent directly to you from my address. Our command control manager, Jonathan, arrives tomorrow afternoon with his lovely wife, Megan. Jonathan has assured me that he will get this straightened out.
Today was another beautiful day in the neighborhood. Jack slept until 11 AM. I think he is enjoying the lack of demands on him. He said after his sitting down while showering that he might start sitting in there for 2 hours. I am not sure what he would look like after 2 hours but who knows, it may be the next cure for wrinkles.
Another blessing came our way today. I mentioned, I was redoing kitchen cabinets and counters. These 2 wonderful El Salvadorian men installed the counters. One of them said his mother was diagnosed 10 years ago with a brain tumor. She had been blinded and confined to a wheelchair as a result. After drugs were administered, she was healed. She is no longer blind or in a wheelchair. She does have some problems but very few. She is alive and well. I told him of how we are trusting God to care for us in this situation. He got a big smile on his face. He said it is the only way. When he left, he turned and said don't stop trusting God, it is the only thing that works. Can you begin to imagine all of the opportunities that the Lord is providing us? It is difficult to remember them all.
Jack is stronger each day but still needs assistance doing a few things. I have to force myself not to help him; but he keeps me out of his way. He frequently weeps when another call or card or email arrives. As Jonathan so beautifully put it, how can you not weep when all of this divine love is being poured out on you. Wow! Oh Lord, my God, how great thou art!
If I do not return phone calls in a timely way, please forgive me. Sometimes, I am answering 2 phones, answering the doorbell, etc. I am trying not to get over extended. I am working from home mostly with some appointments in the office. My clients have been fabulous and very supportive for which I am so greatful. Please remember Dana and Karen, my two wonderful staff people who are floating the boat right now.
Blessings and many thanks to all of you for your sweetness and care,
carolyn
Hopefully, by tomorrow, emails will be sent directly to you from my address. Our command control manager, Jonathan, arrives tomorrow afternoon with his lovely wife, Megan. Jonathan has assured me that he will get this straightened out.
Today was another beautiful day in the neighborhood. Jack slept until 11 AM. I think he is enjoying the lack of demands on him. He said after his sitting down while showering that he might start sitting in there for 2 hours. I am not sure what he would look like after 2 hours but who knows, it may be the next cure for wrinkles.
Another blessing came our way today. I mentioned, I was redoing kitchen cabinets and counters. These 2 wonderful El Salvadorian men installed the counters. One of them said his mother was diagnosed 10 years ago with a brain tumor. She had been blinded and confined to a wheelchair as a result. After drugs were administered, she was healed. She is no longer blind or in a wheelchair. She does have some problems but very few. She is alive and well. I told him of how we are trusting God to care for us in this situation. He got a big smile on his face. He said it is the only way. When he left, he turned and said don't stop trusting God, it is the only thing that works. Can you begin to imagine all of the opportunities that the Lord is providing us? It is difficult to remember them all.
Jack is stronger each day but still needs assistance doing a few things. I have to force myself not to help him; but he keeps me out of his way. He frequently weeps when another call or card or email arrives. As Jonathan so beautifully put it, how can you not weep when all of this divine love is being poured out on you. Wow! Oh Lord, my God, how great thou art!
If I do not return phone calls in a timely way, please forgive me. Sometimes, I am answering 2 phones, answering the doorbell, etc. I am trying not to get over extended. I am working from home mostly with some appointments in the office. My clients have been fabulous and very supportive for which I am so greatful. Please remember Dana and Karen, my two wonderful staff people who are floating the boat right now.
Blessings and many thanks to all of you for your sweetness and care,
carolyn
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Update
Hello everyone:
We got very good news today. Jack came home. I picked him around 9:30 AM. It was a glorious, beautiful late summer day that New Englander's like to refer to as a "New England" day. Since most New Englanders never leave the area, they don't really know that it a typical Southern CA day (all year).
Jack is in generally good spirits. On the way home, I told him that we were very happy before this happened and this new event will not steal that happiness. He is a little weak. I anticipate some nights in his own bed will have him much perkier. He occasionally weeps when he ponders the outpouring of love and care that we have received. He made a comment today about how magnificent and wonderful an event like this one can be. He said many people never have this opportunity to experience a glimpse of the divine, the Almighty God.
We are cherishing each moment. The Lord is graciously providing. A physical therapist evaluated our home today. He said the most dangerous place is the bathtub. He advised Jack not to attempt a shower until handrails were installed. I contacted our handy man, he was 40 miles away on a job. He said on his way home he would pick up the necessary rails and have them installed. The rails are installed. I might add that he is leaving for Bermuda tomorrow.
I met Patience this morning before Jack was dismissed. She is the lady whose prayer I sent out in yesterday's update. I told her that I sent out her prayer via email from sea to shining sea. Spontaneously, she said - "Hallelujah!". Oh, the tender mercies of our gracious God.
I asked Jack today if he was surprised about the diagnosis. He said no because he had thought about it as a possibility when he began to experience some symptoms. I am so thankful that only the motor function of his left side is affected at this point.
Our prayers have been answered for Courtenay. She seemed much better today. She came and spent time with him while I had an appointment at work.
Jack is anxious to see Enzo,the man that cuts his hair. He is going to tell him that the last hair cut just didn't get the job done, so he decided to fix it up. I told him that he will have to tell Enzo that he will never have to worry about Jack competing with his business. Laughter is such good medicine.
I don't recall if I mentioned it when this happened last week but we are in the process of replacing our 50 year old kitchen cabinets. Thankfully, we will have running water in the kitchen by Thursday morning. It is not unlike being a pioneer. I am so grateful to be alive with so many conveniences, most of the time.
Please continue to be prayful about our oncology appointment on Firday morning. Pray also that Jonathan and his dear wife, Megan, will have travel safety on Thursday.
These emails will continue to go through my command center in CA until the head of the center, Jonathan, arrives on Thursday and unravels his mother's email problems.
Blessings to all of you,
Carolyn
We got very good news today. Jack came home. I picked him around 9:30 AM. It was a glorious, beautiful late summer day that New Englander's like to refer to as a "New England" day. Since most New Englanders never leave the area, they don't really know that it a typical Southern CA day (all year).
Jack is in generally good spirits. On the way home, I told him that we were very happy before this happened and this new event will not steal that happiness. He is a little weak. I anticipate some nights in his own bed will have him much perkier. He occasionally weeps when he ponders the outpouring of love and care that we have received. He made a comment today about how magnificent and wonderful an event like this one can be. He said many people never have this opportunity to experience a glimpse of the divine, the Almighty God.
We are cherishing each moment. The Lord is graciously providing. A physical therapist evaluated our home today. He said the most dangerous place is the bathtub. He advised Jack not to attempt a shower until handrails were installed. I contacted our handy man, he was 40 miles away on a job. He said on his way home he would pick up the necessary rails and have them installed. The rails are installed. I might add that he is leaving for Bermuda tomorrow.
I met Patience this morning before Jack was dismissed. She is the lady whose prayer I sent out in yesterday's update. I told her that I sent out her prayer via email from sea to shining sea. Spontaneously, she said - "Hallelujah!". Oh, the tender mercies of our gracious God.
I asked Jack today if he was surprised about the diagnosis. He said no because he had thought about it as a possibility when he began to experience some symptoms. I am so thankful that only the motor function of his left side is affected at this point.
Our prayers have been answered for Courtenay. She seemed much better today. She came and spent time with him while I had an appointment at work.
Jack is anxious to see Enzo,the man that cuts his hair. He is going to tell him that the last hair cut just didn't get the job done, so he decided to fix it up. I told him that he will have to tell Enzo that he will never have to worry about Jack competing with his business. Laughter is such good medicine.
I don't recall if I mentioned it when this happened last week but we are in the process of replacing our 50 year old kitchen cabinets. Thankfully, we will have running water in the kitchen by Thursday morning. It is not unlike being a pioneer. I am so grateful to be alive with so many conveniences, most of the time.
Please continue to be prayful about our oncology appointment on Firday morning. Pray also that Jonathan and his dear wife, Megan, will have travel safety on Thursday.
These emails will continue to go through my command center in CA until the head of the center, Jonathan, arrives on Thursday and unravels his mother's email problems.
Blessings to all of you,
Carolyn
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