As Carol puts it, Dan is strong. And at the moment, the strongest of the weak, as he continues to hold on. He remains unresponsive and resting comfortably at home, and Carol reports that today his blood pressure has started to decrease, while his heart rate has begun to increase.
Today, she sounds much better--not that it is any less difficult, but as she puts it, she has prepared herself for an emotional marathon and not a sprint. She has intentionally cared for herself today (meaning, she took the time to eat) and is working on letting go of the nervousness and anxiety that is pressing down upon her. Please continue to pray for her strength and comfort--we cannot stop her heart from breaking BUT we can pray against the crushing fear and panic that is threatening to attack her, and which leaves her emotionally drained.
Carol also noted that today, while she was napping in the room with Dan, she heard his breathing change suddenly--and she was startled awake in surprise, that perhaps he was taking his last breath. They know he is dying, they are watching his body let go...and yet, she also realized that it will undoubtledly catch them off guard when it actually happens.
So, life continues in the house. The boys are still playing outside, being kids. It's strange for them to try to figure out where all of this fits in to their lives. How to handle it. How to grieve and yet still be kids. Or in Carol's case, how to grieve and still be mom. They can't sit still all day, because life doesn't stop on all levels. Pray that they find their balance in every minute.
Lots more loving on Dan today, continuing to surround themselves with him. Praise God for such intimate last moments! Please continue to hold them up and ask for strength and perserverance on their behalf...there is SO much more ahead for them, and we do ask that the Lord prepare them for the big picture, while also helping them survive the minute-by-minute struggles.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
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5 comments:
I have never in my life experienced such love and peace in a time of sorrow, as I did with Dan and Carol's family at their home. You are truly blessed to have one another. Though my heart is saddened and anxious for Carol, the boys, their family and friends, I am comforted to know that Jesus is right there in your midst.
If you need anything at all, I am just a few houses away. Love - Dave & Julie
"The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
I hope some day you are all able to realize and experience how much you are ministering to us! Still struggling and praying with you from far away...Love from Amy and the Karsts
Dear Carol, You don't know me but last evening worship, Pastor Tony Felich shared your's and Dan's heartwrenching journey. Please know that many Redeemer folks are praying for you and your boys. Words are inadequate but His grace is surround about you, this you can rest in. I would to the Lord I could offer something practical, but know my family is praying for yours.
I am still praying, hoping, and trusting in the promises our Lord has given your family. When Dan's life on earth ends, he'll be going from your arms into the arms of Jesus. What a beautiful, beautiful promise that is. At the same time, the Lord will hold you and your boys near.
Hebrews 13: 5-6 ~ "… for God Himself has said "I will not in any way fail you, nor give you up, nor leave you without support. I will not, I will not, I will not in any degree leave you helpless, nor forsake you, nor let you down. I will not relax my hold on you, assuredly not! So take comfort and be encouraged and confidently and boldly say ' The Lord is my helper, I will not be seized with alarm, I will not fear or dread or be terrified.'"
Carol
My neighbors Jon & Pam Kim have been keeping me updated on your journey with Dan. I just wanted to send you my love and to tell you that you are not alone. I lost my own beloved husband Joel 2 months ago to a heart attack in his sleep very unexpectedly. I too have been struggling with the many emotions that come with maintaining as "normal" a life as possible for our six beautiful children, grieving for my loss, panic attacks, and going through all of the financial aspects. I am always here for you. Please call or email me if you need anything. Our church, Westside Family Church, is praying for your family.
Deanna Sikes
mom to Connor & Cate (14), Grey (11), Rachel, Bekka & Ian (9)
deannasikes@yahoo.com
913.400.3193
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