Thanks again so much for your prayers.

Dad was transported to Peoria today for further evaluations in the Cardiac unit of St Francis Hospital.  The angioplasty showed 100% blockages in all four of the bypasses that were done 9 years ago.  The doc said there was one place a stent could be inserted with a 50/50 chance of him surviving the surgery, or we can treat with meds and wait for the next attack. 

I spent the night with him last night, and was glad for the chance to spend it with him.  He slept well until about 2:00, then the boredom and the discomfort of the hospital bed kept him pretty restless.  I've gotta give kudos to the nurses in the Ottawa Regional Hospital in Ottawa IL for the great care they have given.  They are super!  (Although they have no clue about CH.  I warned them I'm a clusterhead and was offered Tylenol.  I educated them as much as I could.)  His spirits have been good.  We all recognize this may be the end, but because of our faith in Jesus Christ it is not a terrible thing.  We all know that when he does die it is not "goodbye", but rather " See you later."  That is very comforting.

I'd especially appreciate your prayers for my mom.  Mom has Parkinson's, and has been slowed down quite a lot by it.  She is still functional and can get around, but can't drive and needs help with cooking, etc.  Dad has been doing all of that for her, and she does NOT want outside help.  She will accept it from us kids, but keeps spending her time when we are there trying to wait on us.  If Dad makes it until then, August will make 59 yrs they've been married. 

I understand not all here have the same beliefs I have, and I don't want to be insensitive to that.  However, I'd be unfaithful if I didn't share what I have.  What is done with that is up to you.  I don't have this hope because of anything I've done or because I'm good.  I'm not, and I could never do anything to earn what I've been given.  I'm not better than anyone else, in fact probably worse than most, but I've been forgiven, and as a begger who has found a source of bread I try to share it.  The songs I'm linking are just a representation of the hope.  The first one has been a favorite for many years, although I don't care much for the performance.  Multimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or

The second was written by the singer's father shortly before his death.  I've known part of her family, and I can vouch that it was written from the heart.  Multimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or

A third link I'm including is from a different concert.  the gentleman speaking, Howard Goodman, is the young lady singing in the second link's uncle.  This taping was done very shortly before Howard's death.  Multimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or

Jerry

Jerry,

We don't see eye to eye on matters of faith, but there is a "Universal Truth" that spans all paths.  That is to do no harm and treat others as we would want to be treated.

You and yours have every ounce of ...everything good and hopeful I can send your way.  I was in your shoes not long ago, and I don't wish this on anyone, but it is a fact that we all must face. 

May you and yours face what comes, and hold strong to each other and to your Faith.

I will hold you all up in the ways I can..if you'll accept that.

You are my Brother.

Jerry,
I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.  I'm also going to e-mail my sister-in-law and have y'all put on the prayer list for her church.

Carolyn