Thursday, July 30, 2009

July 30, 2009

'God in the details'

Remember this morning when I asked you to pray for the medical equipment for our home so that Steve could come home? Well, I arrived at Chapmans around 10:00 am and the nurse came up to me and said, " Bradberry Medical Equipment called and said that they were getting your medical equipment together, not to worry about anything!" So, Steve will be coming home tomorrow afternoon. God is amazing.

"And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28: 20b

'God is in the details'

Love and blessings,
Priscilla

July 29,2009

'God in the details'

Hopfully Steve will come home on Friday. It depends on the insurance company as to whether we maked it Friday or not. Due to his limitations for the next 8 1/2 weeks he will do as well, probably better, being home as long as we are granted the right equipment. Please pray that the insurance company approves the things and or services that Steve will need.

Phil. 4:6-7

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus"

God has been so faithful in giving us peace in the mist of all of this....prayers at work.

'God is in the details'

Love and blessings,
priscilla

Monday, July 27, 2009

July 27, 2009

God in the details'

Steve has settled in at Chapmans and he is soooo grateful for visitors. He is quite 'antsy' and I know this because he can tell me the approximate number of holes in the ceiling tiles. Seriously, we are so thankful for you continuous support, prayers and as Steve says, " face mail is the best!" I waited until tonight to write, thinking I would have something to tell you about his PT, but he hasn't had any PT. I think they will start tomorrow, they are just waiting for word from the Orthopaedics on what to do and not do. Not only is he not weight bearing but he can't bend his knees making his situation not only unusual but challenging.

Here's a great 'God in the details' that I found out only 2 days ago. One of the paramedics that was on duty at Steve's accident was the only paramedic that had the qualifications to administer Morphine. What a blessing. I can't even imagine Steve not having that...after all, they induce the coma because of the pain.

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1: 17

'God is in the details'

Love and blessings,
Priscilla

Saturday, July 25, 2009

July 25, 2009

'God in the details'

Steve is now at Chapman's skilled nursing care rehab center (that's a nice way of saying nursing home). He is in room #707 and doing well. The PT team said that they have never had anything quiet like this...neither have we. ( :

When Steve got to the hospital emergency room Dr. Freeman looked at me and said, " Your husband is critical condition and he may never walk again." Look how far he has come and he will walk again. God has heard your prayers and he is right here with us."

"For this God is our God for ever and ever; He will be our guide even to the end." Ps.48:14

'God is in the details'

Love and blessings,
Priscilla

Thursday, July 23, 2009

July 23, 2009

'God in the details'

Good News! There is a 99.5% chance that Steve will move to Chapmans tomorrrow for some rehab. We are so ready to move to move to step 2. Steve has made tremendous strides (no pun intended) the last few days. Prayers are being answered...isn't God good?

"In my distress I called to the LORD and he answered me. From the depths of the grave I called for help, and you listened to my cry." Jonah 1:16

I love this verse! A new Christian friend, Donna Vaughan, shared this verse with me one morning at the Drury Inn. It was such a comfort to me and one that has comforted her these past 4 weeks, since she discovered she has kidney cancer. Tomorrow she is having surgery. It was no coincident that we met that morning. She prayed for Steve...I prayed for her and I now ask that you lift her up before, during and after her surgery.

'From the depths of the grave I called for help, and you listened to my cry.' And He is still listening.

'God is in the details'

Love and blessings,
Priscilla

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

July 22, 2009

'God in the details'

I've missed my blogging...I've not had computer access but I'm on now. Steve is doing so much better. He is out of danger and has started the PT. They have set up bars and bands to increase his upper body strength, this is to help him be able to help himself. It will be another 8-10 weeks before he can bear weight on his legs. Please pray for a great rehab program and a speedy recovery (speedy is relative).

Ps. 23:2

"He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside the still waters"

As Steve was coming around, one of the first things Steve remembers was that he heard that still small voice say, " here, lie down in these green pastures, rest here beside the still waters, a place that I have provided for you at this time." Amazing, the body breaks apart yet the heart grows stronger. 'Attitude of gratitude'

I continue to thank each of you and I am constantly reminded of your love and support.

'God is in the details'

Love and blessing,
Priscilla

Sunday, July 19, 2009

July 19, 2009

'God in the details'

Yea! Steve was moved to a room late afternoon yesterday...room #428. He has come a long way and has a long way to go, however God has been so good and has blessed us in so many ways.
.
Our greatest blessing has been seeing God provide and his provision been greatly shown through your love, prayers, and support. To God be all glory and praise!

'God is in the details'

Love and blessings,
Priscilla

Friday, July 17, 2009

July 17, 2009

'God in the details'

Once again I can report that Steve is so much better. He is now breathing on his own and that his 'stats' are good. Respiration rates are a little high but nothing to get excited over. He is more lucid although not completely 'there'. Thank goodness that which doesn't make sense is, at least,, really funny.

Flash Back: When Steve arrived at the hospital and the Orthopedics had viewed the x-rays and cat-scans, I was told that he (the doctor) would be surprised if Steve ever walked again. Before surgery I asked Dr. Freeman if he was a Christian. He said, "yes" so I ask if I could pray with him. We prayed. After the surgery he came downstairs and said, "it went well and Steve would be able to walk again." I reminded him that it was because God had guilded his hands. He looked at his hands and said, "you are probably right." To God be all the praise and glory.

"But I have had God's help to this very day, and so I stand here and testify to small and great alike." Acts 26: 22

'God is in the details'

Love and blessings,
Priscilla

Thursday, July 16, 2009

July 16, 2009

'God in the details'

This was such a good day! Steve's respiration rate was lower, not where it should be, but none the less, lower and consistant. His oxygen intake was good, blood pressure was good and his heart rate was good. I'd say that is an answer to prayer. Thank you! Oh, and his temperature was normal...However, he did think he had filet mingon and applesauce (go figure) today and pineapple and grape flavored ice chips. God is good.

Confession: having been raised in the church, I never questioned God as my Creator, Jesus as my Savior, and the Holy Spirit as my sustainer and I can truthfully say the I have always believed in God. BUT, in the last few years , God has shown me the difference in 'Believing in Him' vs. 'Believing Him.' Don't miss the difference and don't miss the blessing.

"...I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." Isaiah 46: 4 It is He who sustains me.

'God is in the details'

Love and blessings,
Priscilla

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

July 15, 2009

'God in the details'

This afternoon they took Steve off the ventilator, again. He is not doing as well as they had expected him to do. His oxygen level is good but his respiration rate is too high (breaths per min.). He needs to slow down his breathing or he will have to have the ventilator reinserted in order for them to do a tracheotomy. Please pray that his breathing slows down and evens out. It was so frustrating for me to see him laboring so hard to breath. But...as only God can do, He put the perfect words in front of me...

"I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." Isaiah 43: 1b-3a

To quote a friend of mine, "God is good all of the time and all of the time God is Good."

'God is in the details'

Love and blessings,
Priscilla

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

July 14

'God in the details'

Sorry I haven't written the last couple of days but I got disconnected from the Drury Hotel's network and without Steve or Shannon here I didn't know how to get back on.

Last night Steve's fever was down and now we con't to pray that it will be completely normal and stay that way. He is still using the ventilator...this time they plan to bring him off of it much slower. Yesterday he was cognizant of everything being said. He asked many questions via hand signs and 'scribble.' Most questions we could not understand, which I know was extremely frustrating to Steve, however, after about 10 min. with this 1 particular question Leslee (RN) and I finally realized that Steve was asking us to get his cell phone and he would text us. It was a great idea in theory but due to the weakness and swelling in his hands, it was not possible to text last night. His train of thought (in spite of the drugs) reminds me how gracious God was to spare Steve's mind as he has always been a thinker and communicator.

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the [unbelief] that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." Hebrews 12:1

So many blessings...one.. we aren't running alone. Family, friends and people I have never met are praying and running with us every step. To my family I offer many, many thanks. We have a close family and I feel this is just bonding us a little tighter. Their steady and constant prayers, support and comfort has been incredible. And, our girls, through their own pain and tears, have sacrificed much to lift me up. They are very aware and involved in the many aspects that are 'in the race marked out for us.' I love each and everyone of you and I feel blessed beyond words that we are family.

'God is in the detail'

Love and Blessings,
Priscilla

Saturday, July 11, 2009

July 11,2009

'God in the details'

Yesterday morning (I'm kinda behind) when I went to visit Steve the doctor had order the ventilator to be put back in Steve and for him to once again be sedated. It was kind of a shock but after hearing the explanation and seeing how much better Steve looked I was actually relieved. Basically they had taken him off the ventilator too soon and his lungs hadn't healed. He has also developed Pheumonia. He just needs a little more time to heal and they will try again in several days. Having said that... knowing things in your head doesn't always match up with your emotions. Yesterday was tough. Today was a much better day and at the 5:30 visit he opened his eyes and definitely recognized everyone in the room. He couldn't talk but we still had some very humorous moments . What a blessing that was and I am so grateful to God for that glimpse of moving forward.

"My grace is sufficent for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." 2Co. 12:9

'God is in the details'

Love and blessings,
Priscilla

Friday, July 10, 2009

July 10,2009

'God in the details'

As of 9:00 last night Steve was about the same. The doctor's main concern at this moment is his lungs. He has to be able to draw in oxygen on his own before he can be moved to the regular ICU.

I want to take this time to thank you from the very bottom of my heart for all the help and offers in with keeping things up inside and outside our home; in the continuation of Steve's work and the preparation on our house for the day when Steve can come home; for the outpouring of your love, cards, visits, calls - love offering, 'goodie baskets' and above all prayers. You are amazing friends and family. Words cannot express our feelings or our gratitude.

"As water reflects a face, so a man's heart reflects the man." Proverbs 27:19

I see the heart of Jesus in each of you and as my grandmother use to say, "how wonderful."

'God is in the details'

Love and blessings,
Priscilla

Thursday, July 9, 2009

July 9,2009

'God in the details'

Steve was better last night. He is still having trouble with his lungs. Without the 'mask' on, his oxygen level drops too low. Thank you so much for your prayers and concern. God is good.

You know, I've never doubted that God created us in his image. How a woman's body changes to accomodate a growing fetus should convince most anyone...but if you do have doubts go into ICU with someone and watch how everything in our bodies has to be perfectly synchronized. The blood pressure down, the oxygen up, the heart rate steady-magnesium levels, potassium levels-the gases just right before the next step. I learned that when you break your long bones the lungs are a major concern. I mean 'who would have thought'...well except a doctor. This is just a small indication of how "fearfully and wonderfully [we are] made."

Oh, I almost forgot to share an event that happened just before Steve fell. One of the men working at the house was going to pick up a 2 x 4 that was laying on the driveway as soon as he finished whatever he was doing. (thank goodness a woman wasn't ask to do that or it would have been gone). When Steve fell he landed on the concrete except for his head. His head hit that
2 x 4 and not the driveway. We are so blessed!

" You hemmed me in - behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. " Ps. 139: 5

'God is in the details'

Love and Blessings,
Priscilla

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

July 8,2009

God in the details.

Yesterday after being 'fever free' all day Steve spiked a fever of 103.2 last night. My first reaction was worry. It was obvious he didn't feel well (relatively speaking). I should say, as well as he had felt all that day.

"Be still and know that I am God" came to me, my favorite 'calming' verse. I took a deep breath and prayed over Steve. I left concerned but not worried. I went back to the hotel, checked the blog and there were all of your wonderful, encouraging, and loving comments . What a blessing that was. Yes, worry does creep back in and again I have to remind myself to be still and listen to that still quiet voice.

Please pray for Steve, 'no fever-no infection. '

"Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:17

Yes, God is in the details.

Love and Blessings,
Priscilla

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

7/7/09

'God in the details'

Yesterday was a bittersweet day. Steve opened his eyes, talked (although we couldn't understand most of it as the ventilator had cause his throat to swell) and he recognized us. For this we thank God as He is healing Steve more each day. However we hurt for him as we watch the pain, confusion and sometimes fear in his eyes. Unlike in the movies... one does not just wake up and is 100% better. Once again I called on God for the 'peace that passes all understanding'. He brought to mind all the blessings we have received. The friends that have carried on Steve's work...the building of Milton and Mary's home addition. The friends that drove my car home from the shop and the ones that brought it to the hospital. The neighbors working on our house to make it accessible for Steve once he is able to go home. The Drury Inn where everyone has been caring, compassionate and attentive. They have bent over backwards to work with the hospital's schedule and our needs. And of coarse...the out pour of love, support, prayers and encouragement that each of you have shown for which we will forever be grateful.

"Summon your power,O God. Show us your strength, O God, as you have done before." Ps. 68:19

'God is in the details'.

Love and blessings,
Priscilla

Monday, July 6, 2009

7/6/2009

Before I share my thoughts, my feelings and God's hand in this journey, I thank each and every one of you for your love, support, concern and many, many prayers. You are such a blessing to my family and me.

'God in the details'

Last Monday when Steve fell, I was not home...that in itself is a blessing. The ones who were there cannot erase that image. I was spared that. Fortunately Dennis, our friend and neighbor, was there and acted quickly... therefore the EMT's were on the scene immediately and we were blessed with very skilled and very experienced EMT's. The minute I heard about the accident I was with my Broker who is also an EMT volunteer and rescue worker, therefore through her contacts with emergency workers we were able to make it to the ambulance before they put Steve on the helicopter. I was able to hold Steve's hand and tell him that I loved him and he was able to tell me the same. That was such a blessing as Steve has not been awake to talk since then.

As you might imagine my heart was pounding, my throat was dry, my hands were shaking but my fingers were dialing family and prayer warriors. My prayers were constant and I could feel the prayers for Steve and our family as you lifted us up before the throne of God.

After evaluation of Steve's needs they sent him to Montgomery Baptist Memorial Hospital South, one of the best trauma units in Alabama. I know that Shannon has filled you in on the medicals details but I have to repeat that the trauma team was/is amazing.

"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him-but God has revealed it to us by His Spirit. (1 Cor. 2:9-10)

Don't miss 'God in the details'

Love and Blessings,

Priscilla