In His Own Room

Hello all. As I mentioned in an earlier post, dad was moved out of ICU this afternoon and into his own room. Additionally, he is no longer hooked up to any equipment with the exception of the oxygen mask. Thank you for all of your prayers in this specific area-- we are so thrilled to have him in his own room.

Today was a day full of good progress. We started the day speaking with the oncologist back at Rex. We explained the situation thus far (St. Mary's had not contacted her even though we had provided all of the information) and she indicated that it would be her preference to get dad back home for treatments, but she would talk with the oncologist on-site at St. Mary's to get more info on the situation. Late this morning, we got the chance to speak with the oncologist at St. Mary's and he indicated that it is his preference that dad be treated at home as well (that was a different opinion from what he expressed yesterday when he was quite adamant that dad should begin treatment here in Calif. and remain here for the six weeks of treatment. Lesson to all-- you have to stand up for yourself and make sure that the doctors that know you best are in the best position to voice their professional opinion).

Beyond that, dad is really engaging in conversation now. I read him all of the comments we've received thus far via the blog and it moved him to tears. In some respects, its kind of like the movie "It's a Wonderful Life" where George Bailey gets to see what life would be like if he were never born and then is surrounded by all of his friends and family that have been touched by him in some way through the years. You have been making yourself known loud and clear and dad is learning exactly how many people care for him-- and it is overwhelming (in a great way!).

This afternoon, my mom, my sister, my Aunt Betty and I all got to visit with many of dad's friends from ASPE. It was wonderful to walk the floor of the convention and to be introduced to these people that have worked, laughed and shared many good times with dad. It was also a great chance for us to thank them for their support.

This evening, we received a visit from Richard Graham, the director of missions for the Long Beach Harbor Southern Baptist Association. My pastor at Wake Cross Roads, Bill Bowyer, worked to find someone on the ground in this area to meet and pray with us. It was wonderful to be able to meet with him-- almost as if each of you were right here with us as he was visiting.

Lastly, I'm glad to report that Josh, my brother-in-law, arrived home safely this evening in Raleigh. Thank you for your prayers for his safe travel.

As you can see by the date stamp, it is late. I'm hopeful that I can get some good rest tonight. I've been thanking God each night for one more day with our dad and I know each of you are as well. We appreciate your love, prayers and support and hope to see each of you soon.