"For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God." Ps 86:10
Once again Nate was able to have a "quiet" day. He was woken up this morning by the 'kidney' docs, who told Nate he didn't need dialysis today, and probably won't need dialysis again. In other words they think that his kidneys seem to be starting to head in the right direction. This does not mean that they are healed, or are functioning properly, rather that they are going in the right direction. Only time will tell, and only the LORD knows what they will do.
Today during physio Nate's right shoulder was causing some problems, he is waiting to have an x-ray either tonight yet or tomorrow morning before surgery to make sure the shoulder is okay.
Nate is booked for his first skin grafts tomorrow. It is to take place the Lord willing at about 12:30. This is another big day, with many concerns, but ultimately it is in God's hands and He will continue to carry Nate through this as well. His will be done
Please continue to pray for us. Please pray for Nate for his surgery tomorrow, and a restful night tonight. Please continue to pray for healing with his kidney's that they may continue to heal.
Thank you for your constant prayers and words of encouragement and support.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
"I know that the LORD is great, that our Lord is greater than all gods. The LORD does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on the earth, in the seas and all their depths. " Ps 135: 5-6
Nate had a relatively good day today. All his dressings were changed, and they looked good.
Nate did not need dialysis today. He will be having dialysis tomorrow though.
Nate was up in the neuro chair again today and did his physio in the chair, which meant he know had to fight gravity as well. This really tired him out, but it was neat to see how much he can do.
Nate was also told today that he is not getting enough calories and so they are thinking of putting a feeding tube in to give him high calorie nutrition. They will not put the feeding tube in if Nate is able to drink these high calorie drinks. Hopefully he will be able to drink as many as necessary.
Please continue to pray for healing. Healing for Nates kidneys and wounds. Strength for each day again both spiritually and physically.
Nate had a relatively good day today. All his dressings were changed, and they looked good.
Nate did not need dialysis today. He will be having dialysis tomorrow though.
Nate was up in the neuro chair again today and did his physio in the chair, which meant he know had to fight gravity as well. This really tired him out, but it was neat to see how much he can do.
Nate was also told today that he is not getting enough calories and so they are thinking of putting a feeding tube in to give him high calorie nutrition. They will not put the feeding tube in if Nate is able to drink these high calorie drinks. Hopefully he will be able to drink as many as necessary.
Please continue to pray for healing. Healing for Nates kidneys and wounds. Strength for each day again both spiritually and physically.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
"Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens" Psalm 68:19
Today (Sunday) Nate had a good day. He was able to be up in a Neuro Chair, its like a stretcher, but it goes into a sitting position. We went into the waiting room to visit with Taryn, Aiden, Nate's parents and my parents and little sis. It was the first time Nate has been out of his room on anything other then a stretcher. He was finally able to see more then just the ceiling tiles. He was so thrilled to be up, but it exhausted him quite quickly.
In regards to Nate's kidney's the ultrasound showed that there are no blockages and the kidneys appear intact. It is now time that will tell if the kidney's function again. Please continue to pray for healing in this area as well. When it comes to the kidney's, doctors cannot say one way or another if they will function or not, each person is different and each body reacts differently in this way. We are thankful that the doctors have no say in this matter, and that here too we can see that our Heavenly Father is in full control.
After speaking with the cardiologists and arrhythmia docs this morning again, we were told there is no true answer as to why Nate is having issues. Nate has Wolff-Parkinson-White, which causes the fast heart rate, but why it happens sometimes and not others they do not know. When Nate had the chest pain last week, they believe it was due to a high potassium level, but once again they speculate. All we know is that Nate is in God's hands, He controls all that goes on and He has a plan for Nate.
Nate is scheduled for surgery on Wednesday D.V. for skin grafts on his right arm and hopefully left stump. This is an exciting step for us, but at the same time it comes with a little bit of concern.
Nate has been a 'mystery' all along, and if there are no answers posted on the blog, then there are probably no true answers. I will continue to post "answers" as they come up. Nate is not a typical case, and has too many factors that contribute to his condition, so it is difficult to give answers all the time. Please be patient with me. All I can say is that our Heavenly Father has the answers and He will reveal them to us, on His time if it is necessary.
Nathan and I would like to ask that you continue to pray for healing, especially now Nate's kidneys and for continued healing in his limbs. Thank you for the prayers you have prayed and we ask that you continue to remember us daily.
Today (Sunday) Nate had a good day. He was able to be up in a Neuro Chair, its like a stretcher, but it goes into a sitting position. We went into the waiting room to visit with Taryn, Aiden, Nate's parents and my parents and little sis. It was the first time Nate has been out of his room on anything other then a stretcher. He was finally able to see more then just the ceiling tiles. He was so thrilled to be up, but it exhausted him quite quickly.
In regards to Nate's kidney's the ultrasound showed that there are no blockages and the kidneys appear intact. It is now time that will tell if the kidney's function again. Please continue to pray for healing in this area as well. When it comes to the kidney's, doctors cannot say one way or another if they will function or not, each person is different and each body reacts differently in this way. We are thankful that the doctors have no say in this matter, and that here too we can see that our Heavenly Father is in full control.
After speaking with the cardiologists and arrhythmia docs this morning again, we were told there is no true answer as to why Nate is having issues. Nate has Wolff-Parkinson-White, which causes the fast heart rate, but why it happens sometimes and not others they do not know. When Nate had the chest pain last week, they believe it was due to a high potassium level, but once again they speculate. All we know is that Nate is in God's hands, He controls all that goes on and He has a plan for Nate.
Nate is scheduled for surgery on Wednesday D.V. for skin grafts on his right arm and hopefully left stump. This is an exciting step for us, but at the same time it comes with a little bit of concern.
Nate has been a 'mystery' all along, and if there are no answers posted on the blog, then there are probably no true answers. I will continue to post "answers" as they come up. Nate is not a typical case, and has too many factors that contribute to his condition, so it is difficult to give answers all the time. Please be patient with me. All I can say is that our Heavenly Father has the answers and He will reveal them to us, on His time if it is necessary.
Nathan and I would like to ask that you continue to pray for healing, especially now Nate's kidneys and for continued healing in his limbs. Thank you for the prayers you have prayed and we ask that you continue to remember us daily.
"The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made." Ps 145:9
Yestrarday (Sat) Nathan was moved back down to the burn trauma unit (BTU) He had a much more peaceful day, with no dressing changes and no dialysis.
We recieved results from his kidney ultrasound and there are no blockages and the kidneys look intact, now we wait for Nates blood work to show his kidneys working.
Please continue to pray for healing, strength and comfort.
Yestrarday (Sat) Nathan was moved back down to the burn trauma unit (BTU) He had a much more peaceful day, with no dressing changes and no dialysis.
We recieved results from his kidney ultrasound and there are no blockages and the kidneys look intact, now we wait for Nates blood work to show his kidneys working.
Please continue to pray for healing, strength and comfort.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
"Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go; give the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress." Ps 71:3
Yesterday (Friday) Nate had a busier then normal day. They changed all his dressings, removed the vacc dressing from his arm and now he has a 'normal' dressing on it (same as on the stump) and they were able to put the vaccu seal back on his leg. Nate is booked to have his first skin grafts on Wednesday for his arm and stump (thus the reason a 'normal' dressing) Nate also had dialysis and a lot of physio yesterday.
At the end of dialysis, Nate's heart went into a VERY rapid rate. (over 200 beats per minute) Many people were called into his room and soon Nate's heart rate was returned to normal. So needless to say Nate has been transferred once again. This time he is on the fourth floor (cardiac floor) where they can monitor his heart rate a lot closer. Hopefully by the end of today Nate will be back in the BTU (if they have a bed)
Each day again we are faced with the challenges of our frail bodies and are reminded of our complete dependence on our Heavenly Father. For though He allowed all this technology to help Nate, He is in full control of all that happens.
Please continue to remember Nate in your prayer, that his kidneys may function again, and Nate is given all he needs as he is moved to different rooms in the hospital.
"But as for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more." Ps 71: 14
Yesterday (Friday) Nate had a busier then normal day. They changed all his dressings, removed the vacc dressing from his arm and now he has a 'normal' dressing on it (same as on the stump) and they were able to put the vaccu seal back on his leg. Nate is booked to have his first skin grafts on Wednesday for his arm and stump (thus the reason a 'normal' dressing) Nate also had dialysis and a lot of physio yesterday.
At the end of dialysis, Nate's heart went into a VERY rapid rate. (over 200 beats per minute) Many people were called into his room and soon Nate's heart rate was returned to normal. So needless to say Nate has been transferred once again. This time he is on the fourth floor (cardiac floor) where they can monitor his heart rate a lot closer. Hopefully by the end of today Nate will be back in the BTU (if they have a bed)
Each day again we are faced with the challenges of our frail bodies and are reminded of our complete dependence on our Heavenly Father. For though He allowed all this technology to help Nate, He is in full control of all that happens.
Please continue to remember Nate in your prayer, that his kidneys may function again, and Nate is given all he needs as he is moved to different rooms in the hospital.
"But as for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more." Ps 71: 14
Thursday, November 25, 2010
"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most Hight will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." Psalm 91:1
Nathan once again had a busy day, but he slept the night and didn't vomit in the morning. It started with dressing change of the stump which looks really good and clean. Nate then went down stairs for the ultrasound of his kidneys of which we do NOT have results yet. While down stairs they also replaced Nates pic line (like an IV but it goes all the way to the heart) so its in right this time. Once back upstairs physio attacked Nate and started with all his exercises. He sat up a little bit straighter today.
Tomorrow is supposed to be an even busier day for Nate, but i'll tell you about tomorrow tomorrow
Please continue to pray for Nate as the reality of time sets in a little more each day. We are thankful for each prayer.
Nathan once again had a busy day, but he slept the night and didn't vomit in the morning. It started with dressing change of the stump which looks really good and clean. Nate then went down stairs for the ultrasound of his kidneys of which we do NOT have results yet. While down stairs they also replaced Nates pic line (like an IV but it goes all the way to the heart) so its in right this time. Once back upstairs physio attacked Nate and started with all his exercises. He sat up a little bit straighter today.
Tomorrow is supposed to be an even busier day for Nate, but i'll tell you about tomorrow tomorrow
Please continue to pray for Nate as the reality of time sets in a little more each day. We are thankful for each prayer.
Two Days Left
I would like to thank those who have taken the time to support Nathan and Aileen by purchasing tickets for the upcoming Fundraiser Breakfast.
This is just a reminder that there are only two days left to buy tickets.
For the many of those who have been offering your prayers and saying how you wish you could help or do something helpful ... this is the way you can!! Take a moment to purchase a ticket or two, or more ... whether you plan to attend or not the funds will all help Nathan and Aileen and their children now and in the future.
To purchase tickets or send a donation e-mail me at robnstephfamily@gmail.com . If you live in the Hamilton area you can purchase tickets at Golden Fish and Chips - 1050 Upper Gage. For more details about the function please see my previous post by clicking here.
This is just a reminder that there are only two days left to buy tickets.
For the many of those who have been offering your prayers and saying how you wish you could help or do something helpful ... this is the way you can!! Take a moment to purchase a ticket or two, or more ... whether you plan to attend or not the funds will all help Nathan and Aileen and their children now and in the future.
To purchase tickets or send a donation e-mail me at robnstephfamily@gmail.com . If you live in the Hamilton area you can purchase tickets at Golden Fish and Chips - 1050 Upper Gage. For more details about the function please see my previous post by clicking here.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you, he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6
Nathan has had once again a busy day....he did not have his kidney ultra sound much to his and my dismay....it is supposed to happen sometime this week. Nate did have dialysis today, which tired him out.
Today Nate also underwent quite the physical work out with physio. They worked his right elbow, hips on both side, and even had him sitting up almost to 45 degrees. He sat this way for almost an hour and read for about 20 minutes of it. (Made him look more like himself especially since he was reading an war book) After this he was tired!
Hopefully he will sleep well tonight and not vomit in the morning like he has been doing for the past number of mornings.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support. Please continue to do so especially as the reality of how long Nate will be in the hospital sinks in. Today it has been 4 weeks, but we know that there are many more weeks ahead of us. Please pray for us each day again.
Nathan has had once again a busy day....he did not have his kidney ultra sound much to his and my dismay....it is supposed to happen sometime this week. Nate did have dialysis today, which tired him out.
Today Nate also underwent quite the physical work out with physio. They worked his right elbow, hips on both side, and even had him sitting up almost to 45 degrees. He sat this way for almost an hour and read for about 20 minutes of it. (Made him look more like himself especially since he was reading an war book) After this he was tired!
Hopefully he will sleep well tonight and not vomit in the morning like he has been doing for the past number of mornings.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support. Please continue to do so especially as the reality of how long Nate will be in the hospital sinks in. Today it has been 4 weeks, but we know that there are many more weeks ahead of us. Please pray for us each day again.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
"The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing." Ps 34:10
How comforting it is to know that no matter what our Heavenly Father will give us what we stand in need of. This has been shown to us time and again through out the past almost 4 weeks.
Today Nathan was seen by yet another team of doctors who specialize in arrhythmia's of the heart. They confirmed the Wolff-Parkinson White diagnosis, but stated that they don't think this has caused any of his heart problems in the past weeks. They will follow Nate again when he is discharged and will take further action then. We can be thankful that this too is another blessing out of God's hands.
Today they were also able to get the vaccu seal dressing on Nate's leg, something they have tried in the past but failed, but as of now it is working well. They also redid the vaccu seal on Nate's arm and think that this might be the last time they need to do this type of dressing on this arm as it appears ready for skin grafts.
Tomorrow Nate has to have a ultra sound of his kidney's to see if the infection did extensive damage to the kidneys or if they are just in shock. Nate is a bit up tight about this as he (and me) are praying that the kidneys will start to work again.
It is incredible to see how the human body was created. how each part truly plays a crucial role. Writing this reminds me of how we in Christ form one body and how each member plays a crucial role (Rom 12: 4-8)
Today Nathan's leg splint was finally changed. It stank so bad we had to keep the blankets on or plug our noses. The splint was put on after his ?third surgery and since then the leg has seeped a lot of drainage which the splint lovingly soaked up :) They also repositioned Nate's leg from 45 degree angle to 30 degree angle and over the next two weeks will slowly straighten his leg and stretch the tendons and muscles they had to move.
Nathan is still extremely exhausted and had to be woken up more then once during physio (his exercises) He was also moved back to the Burn Trauma Unit (BTU) to the same room in the same spot (YAH!!) Hopefully tonight he will sleep and will gather more strength again.
Please continue to uphold us in your prayers. Nathan and I are overwhelmed by the number of prayers that have gone up, and pray that you will continue to remember us daily.
How comforting it is to know that no matter what our Heavenly Father will give us what we stand in need of. This has been shown to us time and again through out the past almost 4 weeks.
Today Nathan was seen by yet another team of doctors who specialize in arrhythmia's of the heart. They confirmed the Wolff-Parkinson White diagnosis, but stated that they don't think this has caused any of his heart problems in the past weeks. They will follow Nate again when he is discharged and will take further action then. We can be thankful that this too is another blessing out of God's hands.
Today they were also able to get the vaccu seal dressing on Nate's leg, something they have tried in the past but failed, but as of now it is working well. They also redid the vaccu seal on Nate's arm and think that this might be the last time they need to do this type of dressing on this arm as it appears ready for skin grafts.
Tomorrow Nate has to have a ultra sound of his kidney's to see if the infection did extensive damage to the kidneys or if they are just in shock. Nate is a bit up tight about this as he (and me) are praying that the kidneys will start to work again.
It is incredible to see how the human body was created. how each part truly plays a crucial role. Writing this reminds me of how we in Christ form one body and how each member plays a crucial role (Rom 12: 4-8)
Today Nathan's leg splint was finally changed. It stank so bad we had to keep the blankets on or plug our noses. The splint was put on after his ?third surgery and since then the leg has seeped a lot of drainage which the splint lovingly soaked up :) They also repositioned Nate's leg from 45 degree angle to 30 degree angle and over the next two weeks will slowly straighten his leg and stretch the tendons and muscles they had to move.
Nathan is still extremely exhausted and had to be woken up more then once during physio (his exercises) He was also moved back to the Burn Trauma Unit (BTU) to the same room in the same spot (YAH!!) Hopefully tonight he will sleep and will gather more strength again.
Please continue to uphold us in your prayers. Nathan and I are overwhelmed by the number of prayers that have gone up, and pray that you will continue to remember us daily.
Monday, November 22, 2010
"The LORD will keep you from all harm - he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forever more." Ps 121:7-8
Today was a very busy day for Nate. From early morning until this evening many things transpired. Today Nate had to have a CT of his lungs to see if there was a blood clot in his lungs. Once again we see the mercy of our Heavenly Father and the results showed no blood clot. At this time they think his chest pain was due to his high potassium levels. Unfortunately they are not sure why this time his high levels affected him and not any other time. Obviously we see that our Father in Heaven works in ways not known to man, but through each difficult hill we must cross He carries us safely.
Nate also had dressing changes, another ECG, dialysis which needed to be run for 5 hours because it clotted the first time around (what else is new??) he will be having another ECHO either tonight or tomorrow morning.
Today Nate was extremely exhausted, with absolutely no energy to even talk. He is physically and emotionally drained. Sometimes we wonder if he is over doing it. At this time we would like to ask that visiting be brought to a minimal, with no visitors except family for the next day or two. Nate needs to be kept quiet and needs as much rest and sleep as possible.
They are hoping to send Nate back to the Burn Trauma Unit (BTU) sometime tomorrow D.V.
Please continue to pray for Nate, that he may continue to trust in his Heavenly Father. Pray for us, his family and for the medical staff.
Today was a very busy day for Nate. From early morning until this evening many things transpired. Today Nate had to have a CT of his lungs to see if there was a blood clot in his lungs. Once again we see the mercy of our Heavenly Father and the results showed no blood clot. At this time they think his chest pain was due to his high potassium levels. Unfortunately they are not sure why this time his high levels affected him and not any other time. Obviously we see that our Father in Heaven works in ways not known to man, but through each difficult hill we must cross He carries us safely.
Nate also had dressing changes, another ECG, dialysis which needed to be run for 5 hours because it clotted the first time around (what else is new??) he will be having another ECHO either tonight or tomorrow morning.
Today Nate was extremely exhausted, with absolutely no energy to even talk. He is physically and emotionally drained. Sometimes we wonder if he is over doing it. At this time we would like to ask that visiting be brought to a minimal, with no visitors except family for the next day or two. Nate needs to be kept quiet and needs as much rest and sleep as possible.
They are hoping to send Nate back to the Burn Trauma Unit (BTU) sometime tomorrow D.V.
Please continue to pray for Nate, that he may continue to trust in his Heavenly Father. Pray for us, his family and for the medical staff.
"I lift up my eyes to the hills, where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121: 1-2
Last night (Sun night) I was called by the hospital to say that they moved Nate back to the ICU (south) due to chest pain. By the time I arrived, he had already had an Echo, ECG, a ton of blood work, new medication and teams of doctors into see Nate.
Nate as far as they could tell did not suffer a heart attack, but they have confirmed that Nate has a heart condition called Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome. This is often a genetic syndrome that someone has but does not show itself until stress on the heart. This syndrome is characterized by abnormal electrical pathways in the heart that causes disruption in the heart's normal rhythm. This can cause a very fast heart rate, dizzyness, shortness of breath, and many other serious things. Today (Mon.) they are sending Nate for a test to see if he has a blood clot in his lungs, they are also concerned the chest pain may be due to pericarditis, which is an inflammation of the lining around the heart.When I lef t early this morning Nate was resting comfortably and they weren't doing anything new through the night.
With all this we can see how fragile Nate's life still is. He is still very sick.
Please continue to uphold Nate in your prayers. Please continue to pray for us as family. Please continue to pray for the doctors and nurses and other medical staff, especially today as they do more testing.
Last night (Sun night) I was called by the hospital to say that they moved Nate back to the ICU (south) due to chest pain. By the time I arrived, he had already had an Echo, ECG, a ton of blood work, new medication and teams of doctors into see Nate.
Nate as far as they could tell did not suffer a heart attack, but they have confirmed that Nate has a heart condition called Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome. This is often a genetic syndrome that someone has but does not show itself until stress on the heart. This syndrome is characterized by abnormal electrical pathways in the heart that causes disruption in the heart's normal rhythm. This can cause a very fast heart rate, dizzyness, shortness of breath, and many other serious things. Today (Mon.) they are sending Nate for a test to see if he has a blood clot in his lungs, they are also concerned the chest pain may be due to pericarditis, which is an inflammation of the lining around the heart.When I lef t early this morning Nate was resting comfortably and they weren't doing anything new through the night.
With all this we can see how fragile Nate's life still is. He is still very sick.
Please continue to uphold Nate in your prayers. Please continue to pray for us as family. Please continue to pray for the doctors and nurses and other medical staff, especially today as they do more testing.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
"Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails." Proverbs 19:21
How true these words are for us. We plan so many things, but it is the LORD's plan for us that happens. How thankful we are for this, for if we were to try to plan out Nathan's healing course it would be full of faults and Nate would never heal, but the LORD has a plan, a path for us to go down and so we must trust and follow it.
Tonight (Sunday) with visitors we were discussing how incredible God created the human body. He spoke and it was formed, yet man still does not fully understand how the body truly works. Only God can heal what God has created. How thankful we can be for this.
Yesterday (Saturday) Nate had a very exhausting day. He slept most of the day away, between visitors and his exercises. He had dialysis yesterday which always seems to make him tired.
Today (Sunday) Nate only had his stump (or as he calls it "stumpy") dressing changed. He also needed two units of blood transfused due to his hemoglobin being so low. This is very "common" for someone in Nate's 'condition'. Nate's hemoglobin being low probably part of the reason why he was so tired on Saturday. So hopefully this extra blood will give him the energy he will need for tomorrow when he had to undergo some extensive dressing changes and will have to have dialysis again.
Nate is very positive and if you ask his co workers who have visited all Nate has on his mind, (besides getting better) is what training he can do while in the hospital and about going back to work again. Personally and maybe this is selfish, but its nice being able to spend all this time with my husband, and the thought of him returning to work and being gone all day, makes me thankful for these days we get to spend together. In all things we can see the blessings of the LORD.
As colds and viruses make it impossible for people to visit who would love to, Nate understands and has asked that you remain home, get better and then visit. He also asked me to write on the blog, that he doesn't want me to get sick, so please be considerate and visit when you and your WHOLE family are well. Thanks from Nate and myself.
Please continue to remember Nate and myself and our children. Taryn and Aiden don't understand all that is going on, and would love to have their Dad and Mom back home. Pray that they may be patient and live with their child faith, trusting in their Heavenly Father. Please continue to pray for healing, and that we may continue to walk trusting in God to lead us down His path in His time in His way.
How true these words are for us. We plan so many things, but it is the LORD's plan for us that happens. How thankful we are for this, for if we were to try to plan out Nathan's healing course it would be full of faults and Nate would never heal, but the LORD has a plan, a path for us to go down and so we must trust and follow it.
Tonight (Sunday) with visitors we were discussing how incredible God created the human body. He spoke and it was formed, yet man still does not fully understand how the body truly works. Only God can heal what God has created. How thankful we can be for this.
Yesterday (Saturday) Nate had a very exhausting day. He slept most of the day away, between visitors and his exercises. He had dialysis yesterday which always seems to make him tired.
Today (Sunday) Nate only had his stump (or as he calls it "stumpy") dressing changed. He also needed two units of blood transfused due to his hemoglobin being so low. This is very "common" for someone in Nate's 'condition'. Nate's hemoglobin being low probably part of the reason why he was so tired on Saturday. So hopefully this extra blood will give him the energy he will need for tomorrow when he had to undergo some extensive dressing changes and will have to have dialysis again.
Nate is very positive and if you ask his co workers who have visited all Nate has on his mind, (besides getting better) is what training he can do while in the hospital and about going back to work again. Personally and maybe this is selfish, but its nice being able to spend all this time with my husband, and the thought of him returning to work and being gone all day, makes me thankful for these days we get to spend together. In all things we can see the blessings of the LORD.
As colds and viruses make it impossible for people to visit who would love to, Nate understands and has asked that you remain home, get better and then visit. He also asked me to write on the blog, that he doesn't want me to get sick, so please be considerate and visit when you and your WHOLE family are well. Thanks from Nate and myself.
Please continue to remember Nate and myself and our children. Taryn and Aiden don't understand all that is going on, and would love to have their Dad and Mom back home. Pray that they may be patient and live with their child faith, trusting in their Heavenly Father. Please continue to pray for healing, and that we may continue to walk trusting in God to lead us down His path in His time in His way.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Pancake Breakfast with Santa Fundraiser
This is Nathan's sister, Stephanie, jumping in to take a few minutes of your time to let you know about a fundraising event that is happening for Nathan. This event has been organized by Nathan's place of employment.
Date: Saturday December 4, 2010
Time: 8am to 11am
Place: Port Nelson Unit Church - 3132 Sourth Drive, Burlington (click for Mapquest)
Cost: $10 per adult; $5 per child ($12 and under)
There will be two breakfast seating times for the event, the first from 8am to 9:30am and the second from 9:30am to 11am. You will be asked to indicate which time you would like to attend when you purchase your ticket. Breakfast includes pancakes, bacon, sausages, coffee, tea, and juice. There will also be door prizes and an activity area for the children, as well as Santa of course :)
If you are unable to attend but would still like to purchase tickets please just let the ticket seller know that you will not actually attend so that they have an idea of how many people to expect. You can also just make a donation and not purchase a ticket. Donations of food towards the breakfast and/or door prizes are greatly apprecated, a sign will be posted at the event with your logo and location thanking all sponsors.
Tickets are only available until Friday, November 26. Please reserve and pay for your ticket before this time. Tickets can be purchased by e-mailing me at robnstephfamily@gmail.com ... of course if you live close by you can call or drop by. My brother Cameron is also selling tickets, so if you live in his area (Campden) you can contact him at cdiek80@gmail.com . You can also contact Sheehan's Truck Centre at (905) 632-0300 for tickets or to make a contribution.
Update: Staring on Tuesday you will also be able to purchase tickets at Golden Fish and Chips -1050 Upper Gage, Hamilton. Thanks so much Karen for offering to sell them.
Pancake Breakfast with Santa Fundraiser for Nathan
Date: Saturday December 4, 2010
Time: 8am to 11am
Place: Port Nelson Unit Church - 3132 Sourth Drive, Burlington (click for Mapquest)
Cost: $10 per adult; $5 per child ($12 and under)
There will be two breakfast seating times for the event, the first from 8am to 9:30am and the second from 9:30am to 11am. You will be asked to indicate which time you would like to attend when you purchase your ticket. Breakfast includes pancakes, bacon, sausages, coffee, tea, and juice. There will also be door prizes and an activity area for the children, as well as Santa of course :)
If you are unable to attend but would still like to purchase tickets please just let the ticket seller know that you will not actually attend so that they have an idea of how many people to expect. You can also just make a donation and not purchase a ticket. Donations of food towards the breakfast and/or door prizes are greatly apprecated, a sign will be posted at the event with your logo and location thanking all sponsors.
Tickets are only available until Friday, November 26. Please reserve and pay for your ticket before this time. Tickets can be purchased by e-mailing me at robnstephfamily@gmail.com ... of course if you live close by you can call or drop by. My brother Cameron is also selling tickets, so if you live in his area (Campden) you can contact him at cdiek80@gmail.com . You can also contact Sheehan's Truck Centre at (905) 632-0300 for tickets or to make a contribution.
Update: Staring on Tuesday you will also be able to purchase tickets at Golden Fish and Chips -1050 Upper Gage, Hamilton. Thanks so much Karen for offering to sell them.
"The LORD is faithful to all his promisis and loving toward all he has made." Psalm 145:13b
Yestarday (Friday) Nathan had a bit better day. They had to redo the dressing on his arm (Vaccu seal), but other then that they didn't bother Nate too much. In fact I think I bothered him more by putting him through his exercise routine to encourage range of motion in the right arm, right foot and strenghten his left arm.
There are other concerns yet with Nate, but at this time I don't have too much info. Nate is still weak, tired and has a very long way to go.
Unfortunately it is the weekend and for some reason we don't get too many answers over the weekend.
Please continue to hold us in your prayers.
Yestarday (Friday) Nathan had a bit better day. They had to redo the dressing on his arm (Vaccu seal), but other then that they didn't bother Nate too much. In fact I think I bothered him more by putting him through his exercise routine to encourage range of motion in the right arm, right foot and strenghten his left arm.
There are other concerns yet with Nate, but at this time I don't have too much info. Nate is still weak, tired and has a very long way to go.
Unfortunately it is the weekend and for some reason we don't get too many answers over the weekend.
Please continue to hold us in your prayers.
Friday, November 19, 2010
"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." Ps 46:1
Yestarday (Thursday) was a very long, tiring and difficult day for Nate. It all started wonderfully when he got his hair washed and a good clean up, but then at 1:00 he had to go for dressing changes and some debridement of tissue (cutting away dead tissue) They had to roll Nate over on his stomach (partially onto his stomach) inorder to deal with his leg. They then put a vaccu seal dressing on this leg, cleaned up Nate's stump and redressed it with silver (help keep the area clean and prevent infection) gauze and cling. Nate was pretty exhausted when all this was done. Unfortunately right after they put the vaccu seal dressing on it wouldn't work (it work by sucction and needs to be completely sealed to do so) it wouldn't seal properly and so wouldn't sucction properly either. Four different nurses attempted to fix this problem and worked on his leg on and off until 7:00p.m. This is extremely exhausting and painful. Also at about 6:30 they started Nate's dialysis.
At 8:00 they decided to remove the vaccu seal and put on the 'normal' dressing. On night shift they don't normally do dressing changes and so they are not staffed to do dressing changes, this makes it difficult on Nate who has to help lift and turn his leg. They got the dressing done, and then had to try work on his vaccu seal on his arm which was saying there was a blockage in the suction somewhere. They attempted to fix this and it appeared fixed until I left and then the alarms started again. I'm not sure what they did to it after I left.
The other thing that happened is that while on dialysis the blood clotted around the filter, which shuts down the machine. Thankfully they were able to return all Nates blood to him. When they called the doctor, the nurse was informed that Nate would have to have dialysis again last night to complete the 4 hour treatment required. So Nate needed to have another treatment. All this moving, dressing changes, dialysis etc. is extremely tiring and draining, but through it all Nate had to remind me that its all in God's hands and He is in full control though it may seem like a step backwards. I am so thankful God has blessed Nate with trust and faith in Him alone. What an amazing God we have. He never lets us go one step down the path alone.
Please continue to remember us all in your prayers. Please pray for the hands of the nurse who have such extensive dressing changes. Pray for the hands of the doctors who must use their training to help Nate heal. But most importantly pray that God will continue to sustain and strength Nate, myself, our children and famillies spiritually through this all. Our God is an awsome God.
Yestarday (Thursday) was a very long, tiring and difficult day for Nate. It all started wonderfully when he got his hair washed and a good clean up, but then at 1:00 he had to go for dressing changes and some debridement of tissue (cutting away dead tissue) They had to roll Nate over on his stomach (partially onto his stomach) inorder to deal with his leg. They then put a vaccu seal dressing on this leg, cleaned up Nate's stump and redressed it with silver (help keep the area clean and prevent infection) gauze and cling. Nate was pretty exhausted when all this was done. Unfortunately right after they put the vaccu seal dressing on it wouldn't work (it work by sucction and needs to be completely sealed to do so) it wouldn't seal properly and so wouldn't sucction properly either. Four different nurses attempted to fix this problem and worked on his leg on and off until 7:00p.m. This is extremely exhausting and painful. Also at about 6:30 they started Nate's dialysis.
At 8:00 they decided to remove the vaccu seal and put on the 'normal' dressing. On night shift they don't normally do dressing changes and so they are not staffed to do dressing changes, this makes it difficult on Nate who has to help lift and turn his leg. They got the dressing done, and then had to try work on his vaccu seal on his arm which was saying there was a blockage in the suction somewhere. They attempted to fix this and it appeared fixed until I left and then the alarms started again. I'm not sure what they did to it after I left.
The other thing that happened is that while on dialysis the blood clotted around the filter, which shuts down the machine. Thankfully they were able to return all Nates blood to him. When they called the doctor, the nurse was informed that Nate would have to have dialysis again last night to complete the 4 hour treatment required. So Nate needed to have another treatment. All this moving, dressing changes, dialysis etc. is extremely tiring and draining, but through it all Nate had to remind me that its all in God's hands and He is in full control though it may seem like a step backwards. I am so thankful God has blessed Nate with trust and faith in Him alone. What an amazing God we have. He never lets us go one step down the path alone.
Please continue to remember us all in your prayers. Please pray for the hands of the nurse who have such extensive dressing changes. Pray for the hands of the doctors who must use their training to help Nate heal. But most importantly pray that God will continue to sustain and strength Nate, myself, our children and famillies spiritually through this all. Our God is an awsome God.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
"Surely God is my help; the LORD is the one who sustains me." Psalm 54:4
Today (Wed) Nathan had a good day. He didn't need dressing changes, so he wasn't as exhausted as the day before. Nathan also enjoyed the company of family and friends throughout the day as well. After dialysis Nate was taken to the Burn Trauma Unit - this is where they are the best at dressing changes. The only other thing about this unit is they have visitation hours which restricts a lot of people from visiting. This is also a good thing too though because Nate is still tired, and needs to rest, especially on dressing change days.
At this point we are still restricting visitors due to how tired Nate is. Nate will be in the hospital for many weeks yet, so for those who would like to visit, the time will come yet. Thanks for your patience and understanding. (Please DO NOT visit if you or your children have a cold, runny noses etc. Nate is at VERY high risk for infection. And if I get sick then I can't visit either) The LORD has sustained Nathan through this and has prevented further infection at time of writing, so we ask that you please respect our wishes and the instruction of the doctors with regards to visiting.
The key things they are focusing on now are the limbs and helping them to heal, as well as the kidney's. Please continue to pray for healing for Nate's incisions and that the kidney's might function again - the LORD willing.
I would also like to thank all of you who have already donated blood or who are going to shortly. Please give if you are able. The phone number is 1-888-2-DONATE.
Please continue to pray each day that Nathan have trust, strength and that the LORD will continue to allow healing to take place.
Thank you for your prayers ,words of encouragement.
"But as for me, I trust in you." Psalm 55:23b
Today (Wed) Nathan had a good day. He didn't need dressing changes, so he wasn't as exhausted as the day before. Nathan also enjoyed the company of family and friends throughout the day as well. After dialysis Nate was taken to the Burn Trauma Unit - this is where they are the best at dressing changes. The only other thing about this unit is they have visitation hours which restricts a lot of people from visiting. This is also a good thing too though because Nate is still tired, and needs to rest, especially on dressing change days.
At this point we are still restricting visitors due to how tired Nate is. Nate will be in the hospital for many weeks yet, so for those who would like to visit, the time will come yet. Thanks for your patience and understanding. (Please DO NOT visit if you or your children have a cold, runny noses etc. Nate is at VERY high risk for infection. And if I get sick then I can't visit either) The LORD has sustained Nathan through this and has prevented further infection at time of writing, so we ask that you please respect our wishes and the instruction of the doctors with regards to visiting.
The key things they are focusing on now are the limbs and helping them to heal, as well as the kidney's. Please continue to pray for healing for Nate's incisions and that the kidney's might function again - the LORD willing.
I would also like to thank all of you who have already donated blood or who are going to shortly. Please give if you are able. The phone number is 1-888-2-DONATE.
Please continue to pray each day that Nathan have trust, strength and that the LORD will continue to allow healing to take place.
Thank you for your prayers ,words of encouragement.
"But as for me, I trust in you." Psalm 55:23b
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
"Shout for joy O heavens; rejoice, O earth; burst into song, O mountains! For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on His afflicted ones."
Isaiah 49:13
Today was another busy day for Nate. He slept 'well' Monday night, 2 hour stretches at a time - but this is the most he has slept yet so he and I were very thankful for that. His morning started with full dressing changes done with the plastic surgeon, resident doctor and nurse. They changed all his dressings including his right arm and started removing stitches from his flanks. This will be a process to remove all the stitches and staples down his sides. If I had to guess I would say there are more then 60 staples on either side, plus stitches. The plastic surgeon (Dr. Cooper) is extremely happy with how all his incisions and open areas look. Nate's right arm is 90-95% ready for skin grafts. Nate does NOT need another surgery at this time, to do clean up of his arm, leg and stump. This is very good news, and now we wait for further healing to take place - this will take weeks, so Nate and I will have to practise the art of patience.
Nate is still undergoing dialysis, we pray that his kidneys may start to function again, but at this time it is, yes, a waiting game.
I have been questioned often by doctors and nurses as to how Nate 'truly' is handling all that has gone on - they ask this because they don't understand how Nate is able to accept it and push to go on. Nate too says he can't explain it, humanly speaking, but he knows God is at work in him, allowing him to accept it, and God has a plan for him.
Nathan's faith is being tested but, we have been blessed to see how God is at work in him, and how he is being a witness to all not only the staff around him, but to me, family and friends.
Please continue to pray that God will give Nate the strength even in difficult days, and will allow Nate all he needs to witness to all around him, as he travels this path.
Nate asked me to thank each of you for your continued prayers, support, words of encouragement and all the many other things you have done for us. It is such a blessing to be a part of the communion of saints- what an awesome God we have.
"How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth!" Ps 47:2
Isaiah 49:13
Today was another busy day for Nate. He slept 'well' Monday night, 2 hour stretches at a time - but this is the most he has slept yet so he and I were very thankful for that. His morning started with full dressing changes done with the plastic surgeon, resident doctor and nurse. They changed all his dressings including his right arm and started removing stitches from his flanks. This will be a process to remove all the stitches and staples down his sides. If I had to guess I would say there are more then 60 staples on either side, plus stitches. The plastic surgeon (Dr. Cooper) is extremely happy with how all his incisions and open areas look. Nate's right arm is 90-95% ready for skin grafts. Nate does NOT need another surgery at this time, to do clean up of his arm, leg and stump. This is very good news, and now we wait for further healing to take place - this will take weeks, so Nate and I will have to practise the art of patience.
Nate is still undergoing dialysis, we pray that his kidneys may start to function again, but at this time it is, yes, a waiting game.
I have been questioned often by doctors and nurses as to how Nate 'truly' is handling all that has gone on - they ask this because they don't understand how Nate is able to accept it and push to go on. Nate too says he can't explain it, humanly speaking, but he knows God is at work in him, allowing him to accept it, and God has a plan for him.
Nathan's faith is being tested but, we have been blessed to see how God is at work in him, and how he is being a witness to all not only the staff around him, but to me, family and friends.
Please continue to pray that God will give Nate the strength even in difficult days, and will allow Nate all he needs to witness to all around him, as he travels this path.
Nate asked me to thank each of you for your continued prayers, support, words of encouragement and all the many other things you have done for us. It is such a blessing to be a part of the communion of saints- what an awesome God we have.
"How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth!" Ps 47:2
Monday, November 15, 2010
"For we don not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time
of need." Heb 4: 15-16
Monday - what a busy day Nate had. He didn't sleep so well through the night, so he was exhausted and a bit down this morning, then the medical staff started with all the things they like to do. They put in a new arterial catheter (like an big intravenous into an artery) in his neck for dialysis. This took about an hour and half to do, and tired Nate out. He also had three different teams of doc's into assess him. (nothing new really to report) as well as an echo (ultrasound of his heart) a chest x-ray, dressing changes, his hair washed (its been almost 3 weeks - gross!!), physio putting him through the routine, dialysis, respiratory therapists in, blood work, finger pokes, nurses requiring him to roll over, medication injections and yes the list goes on.....but between all these Nate was supposed to sleep, something he really hasn't done to well since his tube came out. And yes, he finally napped for about an hour this evening, and finally felt a little better. We're hoping he will sleep tonight, now that he has adjusted to some of the noises that happen in ICU.
It is so upbuilding to hear Nate talk. He is so thankful for all the blessings he receives, from the nurses help, to the doctors who come to talk and all the others involved in his care, but most of all Nate is thankful for his life.
Please continue to pray that God will continue to grant healing, continue to build Nathan up, and help Nate put his complete trust and confidence in God alone.
Thank you for your prayers and words of encouragement. It is very upbuilding to read so many different scripture verses and to know that so many people are praying. Thanks be to our Heavenly Father, for He has so richly blessed us with the communion of saint.
of need." Heb 4: 15-16
Monday - what a busy day Nate had. He didn't sleep so well through the night, so he was exhausted and a bit down this morning, then the medical staff started with all the things they like to do. They put in a new arterial catheter (like an big intravenous into an artery) in his neck for dialysis. This took about an hour and half to do, and tired Nate out. He also had three different teams of doc's into assess him. (nothing new really to report) as well as an echo (ultrasound of his heart) a chest x-ray, dressing changes, his hair washed (its been almost 3 weeks - gross!!), physio putting him through the routine, dialysis, respiratory therapists in, blood work, finger pokes, nurses requiring him to roll over, medication injections and yes the list goes on.....but between all these Nate was supposed to sleep, something he really hasn't done to well since his tube came out. And yes, he finally napped for about an hour this evening, and finally felt a little better. We're hoping he will sleep tonight, now that he has adjusted to some of the noises that happen in ICU.
It is so upbuilding to hear Nate talk. He is so thankful for all the blessings he receives, from the nurses help, to the doctors who come to talk and all the others involved in his care, but most of all Nate is thankful for his life.
Please continue to pray that God will continue to grant healing, continue to build Nathan up, and help Nate put his complete trust and confidence in God alone.
Thank you for your prayers and words of encouragement. It is very upbuilding to read so many different scripture verses and to know that so many people are praying. Thanks be to our Heavenly Father, for He has so richly blessed us with the communion of saint.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." Matt 7:7-8
God has heard so many prayers, and has answered so many prayers. He has graciously blessed Nate with faith and trust. Faith in His unfailing love and trust in His covenant promises.
Yesterday morning (Sat), Taryn and Aiden were able to see their dad for the first time in over two weeks. They were a little hesitant at first, but with a little encouragement start talking to Nate. They can't wait to see their Dad after church this afternoon.
Nathan understood their trepidation, and didn't push them. He is eagerly awaiting their visit today.
Nathan is having difficulty sleeping, we pray that God will give him the rest Nate so desires.
This morning (Sunday) when I arrived, Nate was shifting himself in the bed, rolling onto his side (with some assistance) 'helping' the nurses with dressing changes and bearing the pain without a word of complaint. Our Heavenly Father has given Nate so much strength, it even baffles the nurses.
This morning I was able to give my hubby breakfast in bed....Oh how romantic!! he even enjoyed a cup of coffee.
Nathan himself has said many times how blessed we are. Our family, our friends, and the communion of saints all praying for us and helping us through these times. What rich blessings we have received from our Father in Heaven.
"You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever." Psalm 30:11-12
God has heard so many prayers, and has answered so many prayers. He has graciously blessed Nate with faith and trust. Faith in His unfailing love and trust in His covenant promises.
Yesterday morning (Sat), Taryn and Aiden were able to see their dad for the first time in over two weeks. They were a little hesitant at first, but with a little encouragement start talking to Nate. They can't wait to see their Dad after church this afternoon.
Nathan understood their trepidation, and didn't push them. He is eagerly awaiting their visit today.
Nathan is having difficulty sleeping, we pray that God will give him the rest Nate so desires.
This morning (Sunday) when I arrived, Nate was shifting himself in the bed, rolling onto his side (with some assistance) 'helping' the nurses with dressing changes and bearing the pain without a word of complaint. Our Heavenly Father has given Nate so much strength, it even baffles the nurses.
This morning I was able to give my hubby breakfast in bed....Oh how romantic!! he even enjoyed a cup of coffee.
Nathan himself has said many times how blessed we are. Our family, our friends, and the communion of saints all praying for us and helping us through these times. What rich blessings we have received from our Father in Heaven.
"You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever." Psalm 30:11-12
Friday, November 12, 2010
I was asked to post this information on behalf of Nathan's employers.
Nathan's service manager Marc as well as owners of Sheehan's Truck Center have been working on a fund raiser. Anyone wishing to contribute is asked to send it to:
Nathan Diek
c/o Sheehan's Truck Centre
4320 Harvester Rd
Burlington ON
L7L 5S4
Thank you.
Nathan's service manager Marc as well as owners of Sheehan's Truck Center have been working on a fund raiser. Anyone wishing to contribute is asked to send it to:
Nathan Diek
c/o Sheehan's Truck Centre
4320 Harvester Rd
Burlington ON
L7L 5S4
Thank you.
"Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness" Psalm 150:1-2
What a wonderful day God has graciously granted us.
This morning (Friday) they sedated Nate so they could change his dressings and then do his dialysis. Both things Nate tolerated well
This evening (Friday) at approx 6:00 p.m. they removed Nates breathing tube. He could finally talk. I was able to hear my husbands voice once again. What a gracious God we have.
Nathan has at this point 'accepted' what has happened and remembers me telling him. (I'm sure there will be many more frustrating and difficult days ahead - but we are thankful for the positive day we were blessed with) Nates biggest concern was food, and how we could sneak food into him. As you may have guessed he still has many sedatives still in his blood stream and was making some funny comments due to them.
He is eager to see Taryn and Aiden tomorrow morning (Sat morning) so I ask that you will pray for our children that they may be eager to see their dad and accept him as he is, even in a hospital bed. This may be a bit scary for them.
Please continue to remember our famillies, friends, doctors, nurses and other medical staff in your prayers. Our Heavenly Father has been gracious to us. Give thanks to Him alone for all He has done.
"Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD." Psalm 150:6
What a wonderful day God has graciously granted us.
This morning (Friday) they sedated Nate so they could change his dressings and then do his dialysis. Both things Nate tolerated well
This evening (Friday) at approx 6:00 p.m. they removed Nates breathing tube. He could finally talk. I was able to hear my husbands voice once again. What a gracious God we have.
Nathan has at this point 'accepted' what has happened and remembers me telling him. (I'm sure there will be many more frustrating and difficult days ahead - but we are thankful for the positive day we were blessed with) Nates biggest concern was food, and how we could sneak food into him. As you may have guessed he still has many sedatives still in his blood stream and was making some funny comments due to them.
He is eager to see Taryn and Aiden tomorrow morning (Sat morning) so I ask that you will pray for our children that they may be eager to see their dad and accept him as he is, even in a hospital bed. This may be a bit scary for them.
Please continue to remember our famillies, friends, doctors, nurses and other medical staff in your prayers. Our Heavenly Father has been gracious to us. Give thanks to Him alone for all He has done.
"Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD." Psalm 150:6
Thursday, November 11, 2010
"Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs." Psalm 100:1-2
Yestarday (Wed) was a day to rejoice in the LORD once again for His many great mercies and His goodness to us. When I went into see Nate in the morning, he was awake, intubated (breathing tube) but responding to everything we said. He wiggled his fingers on BOTH hands, responded with shaking his head yes or no to questions asked. Later in the day, he attempted to ask why he was in the hospital. After speaking with Nates nurses I realized it was time to tell Nate what has happened (briefly) over the past two weeks. I had to tell Nate about what has happened in surgery to his limbs. He still seemed to have many questions, unfortunately Nate can't ask questions and he tires out extremely fast and gets very frustrated with his breathing tube.. It is unbelievable to think that it was two weeks ago since we were last able to communicate. I eagerly await the day Nates breathing tube is removed, and I can hear my husbands voice once again, but am so thankful to our Heavenly Father for allowing us this time together after all Nate has gone through.
Last night our parents and myself were able to meet with doctors and nurses to find out what is going on and what they hope will go on in the next week.
Nate has to have another surgery, to clean out his wounds and put proper dressings on, this will take place in the OR and so the reason they don't want to remove his breathing tube just yet. Nate is still on dialysis, but the doctors hope that within 6-8 weeks Nates kidneys will start to function again. Nate will be in ICU for the next week forsure, and then the LORD willing he will be moved to the burn unit for dressing changes.
All this we know is in the LORD's hands and He controls all things.
Much thanks to all who have been helping us out in so many different ways. Those who have already started working in our house making it accessable for Nate when he comes home and for all the many other things you have been doing there. God has richly blessed us with family and friends who truly love us and want to help.
Please also remember Nathan's close friends in prayer, they too have and continue to struggle with all that has gone on and are missing their mechanic and friend.
Remember the work of the doctors and nurses, and all the medical staff.
Please continue to pray for me as well especially as Nate is comprehending what has gone on and wants answers. Pray that God will continue to strengthen and give me the wisdom I need to help Nate, but most of all pray that God will give Nate the comfort of his Heavenly Father, the trust in his Father and the patience to take it one day at a time.
"Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people the sheep of his pasture." Psalm 100:3
Yestarday (Wed) was a day to rejoice in the LORD once again for His many great mercies and His goodness to us. When I went into see Nate in the morning, he was awake, intubated (breathing tube) but responding to everything we said. He wiggled his fingers on BOTH hands, responded with shaking his head yes or no to questions asked. Later in the day, he attempted to ask why he was in the hospital. After speaking with Nates nurses I realized it was time to tell Nate what has happened (briefly) over the past two weeks. I had to tell Nate about what has happened in surgery to his limbs. He still seemed to have many questions, unfortunately Nate can't ask questions and he tires out extremely fast and gets very frustrated with his breathing tube.. It is unbelievable to think that it was two weeks ago since we were last able to communicate. I eagerly await the day Nates breathing tube is removed, and I can hear my husbands voice once again, but am so thankful to our Heavenly Father for allowing us this time together after all Nate has gone through.
Last night our parents and myself were able to meet with doctors and nurses to find out what is going on and what they hope will go on in the next week.
Nate has to have another surgery, to clean out his wounds and put proper dressings on, this will take place in the OR and so the reason they don't want to remove his breathing tube just yet. Nate is still on dialysis, but the doctors hope that within 6-8 weeks Nates kidneys will start to function again. Nate will be in ICU for the next week forsure, and then the LORD willing he will be moved to the burn unit for dressing changes.
All this we know is in the LORD's hands and He controls all things.
Much thanks to all who have been helping us out in so many different ways. Those who have already started working in our house making it accessable for Nate when he comes home and for all the many other things you have been doing there. God has richly blessed us with family and friends who truly love us and want to help.
Please also remember Nathan's close friends in prayer, they too have and continue to struggle with all that has gone on and are missing their mechanic and friend.
Remember the work of the doctors and nurses, and all the medical staff.
Please continue to pray for me as well especially as Nate is comprehending what has gone on and wants answers. Pray that God will continue to strengthen and give me the wisdom I need to help Nate, but most of all pray that God will give Nate the comfort of his Heavenly Father, the trust in his Father and the patience to take it one day at a time.
"Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people the sheep of his pasture." Psalm 100:3
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
"Finally my brethern, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might." Eph 6:10
Our Lord is a mighty Lord, last night He sustained Nathan through another night and Nate was able to rest a little more at ease.
After Nates dialysis Mon afternoon (yestarday), Nate was much more alert and even got emotional. As they decrease Nates sedation levels and he becomes more aware of what is going on, Nate is going to need your prayers. For us we have had time to deal with what has gone on in the past two weeks, but for Nate he will recieve the blow in great force. Pray continually for him, and for me, that God may give me the strength and wisdom to encourage Nate through this. At present time, Nate is still sedated enough he doesn't fully understand all that is going on. He is also on medication which has as a side effect amnesia (forgetfulness) for this we can be thankful for as well.
Today the plastic surgeons and ortho surgeons are supposed to come in and have a good look at Nates incision areas. Hopefully we will find out soon how they look and what the long term "plan" is for Nate in these areas as well.
Nate is still battling infections, the doctors believe they have the necrotizing facistise (sorry, im not sure how to spell it) undercontrol, though he is still on antibiotics for this as well. The other infections are ones we knew were coming it was just a matter of time. Nate is still very sick, but God's mercies are new each morning.
Thank you for your prayers. Please continue to pray for Nate, myself our children, and all the medical staff involved in Nates care.
Our Lord is a mighty Lord, last night He sustained Nathan through another night and Nate was able to rest a little more at ease.
After Nates dialysis Mon afternoon (yestarday), Nate was much more alert and even got emotional. As they decrease Nates sedation levels and he becomes more aware of what is going on, Nate is going to need your prayers. For us we have had time to deal with what has gone on in the past two weeks, but for Nate he will recieve the blow in great force. Pray continually for him, and for me, that God may give me the strength and wisdom to encourage Nate through this. At present time, Nate is still sedated enough he doesn't fully understand all that is going on. He is also on medication which has as a side effect amnesia (forgetfulness) for this we can be thankful for as well.
Today the plastic surgeons and ortho surgeons are supposed to come in and have a good look at Nates incision areas. Hopefully we will find out soon how they look and what the long term "plan" is for Nate in these areas as well.
Nate is still battling infections, the doctors believe they have the necrotizing facistise (sorry, im not sure how to spell it) undercontrol, though he is still on antibiotics for this as well. The other infections are ones we knew were coming it was just a matter of time. Nate is still very sick, but God's mercies are new each morning.
Thank you for your prayers. Please continue to pray for Nate, myself our children, and all the medical staff involved in Nates care.
Monday, November 8, 2010
"Hear me when I call, O Godof my righteousness! You have relieved me in my distress; Have mercy on me, and hear my prayer." Psalm 4:1
I'd like to first thank each and everyone who has been constantly praying for Nathan, myself, our children and all the medical staff. It is uplifting to know that prayers are going up all around the world. May God be gracious and continue to hear these prayers and answer them- knowing it is not our will but His will.
God has been gracious to us, these past two weeks and has allowed him to have excellent nursing care. The staff here in the Ham. General ICU has been unbelievable, not only to Nate but also in their care for me. In this too we can see how our Heavenly Father so directs our and their lives.
Last night Nate had a very difficult night. Since coming off of dialysis his body had to try to take over and fight even harder, and since his kidney's are not functioning this is even more difficult for him. His ventilator had to be turned up to help with his breathing and he needed a few more different types of medication to stabilize him again.
Today he seems to have settled down abit, and they were able to lower the settings on his ventilator so that he would stimulate the breathing on his own again. He tolerated his dressing changes very well and at time of writting is having dialysis. He will be having dialysis every day for approx 3 hours. The doctors are going to continue to try to stimulate his kidneys to function but at this time they do not know if they will ever function. Please pray that God will allow healing in this area as well.
When it comes to the incision areas they (docs and nurses) are quite happy with the healing that has already taken place- the areas look healthy. There is a long way to go before they will be fully healed but we are thankful for the health of the tissue there.
Nathan's nurse today, was able to get me my private room back again, so as you can see I have internet connection again.
Please continue to uphold us all in your prayers, especially Nate, that he might find comfort in the arms of his Heavenly Father.
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble" Matt 6: 34
This is a text I must return to each day, many times a day. As my Dad keeps telling me 'back to basics' Nathan is alive and our Father has sustained Nate this far - trust in our Heavenly Father.
I'd like to first thank each and everyone who has been constantly praying for Nathan, myself, our children and all the medical staff. It is uplifting to know that prayers are going up all around the world. May God be gracious and continue to hear these prayers and answer them- knowing it is not our will but His will.
God has been gracious to us, these past two weeks and has allowed him to have excellent nursing care. The staff here in the Ham. General ICU has been unbelievable, not only to Nate but also in their care for me. In this too we can see how our Heavenly Father so directs our and their lives.
Last night Nate had a very difficult night. Since coming off of dialysis his body had to try to take over and fight even harder, and since his kidney's are not functioning this is even more difficult for him. His ventilator had to be turned up to help with his breathing and he needed a few more different types of medication to stabilize him again.
Today he seems to have settled down abit, and they were able to lower the settings on his ventilator so that he would stimulate the breathing on his own again. He tolerated his dressing changes very well and at time of writting is having dialysis. He will be having dialysis every day for approx 3 hours. The doctors are going to continue to try to stimulate his kidneys to function but at this time they do not know if they will ever function. Please pray that God will allow healing in this area as well.
When it comes to the incision areas they (docs and nurses) are quite happy with the healing that has already taken place- the areas look healthy. There is a long way to go before they will be fully healed but we are thankful for the health of the tissue there.
Nathan's nurse today, was able to get me my private room back again, so as you can see I have internet connection again.
Please continue to uphold us all in your prayers, especially Nate, that he might find comfort in the arms of his Heavenly Father.
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble" Matt 6: 34
This is a text I must return to each day, many times a day. As my Dad keeps telling me 'back to basics' Nathan is alive and our Father has sustained Nate this far - trust in our Heavenly Father.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
"Praise the LORD, Praise the LORD from the heavens, praise him in the heights above. Praise him, all his angels, praise him, all his heavenly hosts." Psalm 148: 1-2
Our LORD is a gracious LORD. Yestarday (Saturday) we were able to witness the marriage of Scott and Michelle. It was a beautiful day full of thanks and praise.
Nathan had a quiet day, yestarday as well as last night.
This morning (Sunday) they had to cauterize some bleeding on his right arm, but when I left they felt pretty confident they had stopped all the bleeding. Nate has required a few further transfusions, but this is too be expected. Nate is also still on antibiotics (3 different kinds) as well as blood pressure medication because his blood pressure is too high. They have lowered Nates sedation, but have increased his pain medication. This morning he had his eyes opened and was responding to me with his eyes. (he is still very medicated though) His dialysis machine was stopped later this morning, and will hopfully be started on intermittent dialysis tomorrow.
I must go to church now, I will attempt to blog again at a later date
Please continue to pray for Nate, myself, our children, the doctors and nurses.
Our God is a gracious God.
Our LORD is a gracious LORD. Yestarday (Saturday) we were able to witness the marriage of Scott and Michelle. It was a beautiful day full of thanks and praise.
Nathan had a quiet day, yestarday as well as last night.
This morning (Sunday) they had to cauterize some bleeding on his right arm, but when I left they felt pretty confident they had stopped all the bleeding. Nate has required a few further transfusions, but this is too be expected. Nate is also still on antibiotics (3 different kinds) as well as blood pressure medication because his blood pressure is too high. They have lowered Nates sedation, but have increased his pain medication. This morning he had his eyes opened and was responding to me with his eyes. (he is still very medicated though) His dialysis machine was stopped later this morning, and will hopfully be started on intermittent dialysis tomorrow.
I must go to church now, I will attempt to blog again at a later date
Please continue to pray for Nate, myself, our children, the doctors and nurses.
Our God is a gracious God.
Friday, November 5, 2010
"Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning ; great is your faithfulness." Lam 3: 22-23
Nathan has once again been sustained through the night and day. They removed the paralizing medication yestarday morning, and today they changed one of his sedation medication. As of now Nate is breathing on his own with minimal support from the ventilator.
They are hoping to change his dialysis to intermittent sometime in the very near future.
Nate is one approx 3 different antibiotics to combat infections. They are not sure of where the infections are but because Nate has so many different areas where infection can be present.
We are thankful each moment we can spend with Nate and can see how richly our Heavenly Father has blessed us.
Please continue to pray for Nate, myself and our families. Also continue to remember to pray for the doctors and nurses. Nate has had 2 nurses at his bedside since he has arrived, for this alone we can be ever thankful.
I have been notified a few minutes ago that I no longer have my own room. This mean I will not be able to blog myself always. Please bear with us in this regard as well.
Tomorrow is not only Nathan and my anniversary it is also a very joyful day as we D.V. will witness the union of my brother Scott to Michelle Ravensbergen. Please pray for them as well.
"I know that you can do all things; no plan of your can be thwarted." Job 42:2
Nathan has once again been sustained through the night and day. They removed the paralizing medication yestarday morning, and today they changed one of his sedation medication. As of now Nate is breathing on his own with minimal support from the ventilator.
They are hoping to change his dialysis to intermittent sometime in the very near future.
Nate is one approx 3 different antibiotics to combat infections. They are not sure of where the infections are but because Nate has so many different areas where infection can be present.
We are thankful each moment we can spend with Nate and can see how richly our Heavenly Father has blessed us.
Please continue to pray for Nate, myself and our families. Also continue to remember to pray for the doctors and nurses. Nate has had 2 nurses at his bedside since he has arrived, for this alone we can be ever thankful.
I have been notified a few minutes ago that I no longer have my own room. This mean I will not be able to blog myself always. Please bear with us in this regard as well.
Tomorrow is not only Nathan and my anniversary it is also a very joyful day as we D.V. will witness the union of my brother Scott to Michelle Ravensbergen. Please pray for them as well.
"I know that you can do all things; no plan of your can be thwarted." Job 42:2
Thursday, November 4, 2010
"I cry to God and the LORD saves me. Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress and he hears my voice." Psalm 55: 16-17
Nathan had a very difficult night last night. He had to be paralized with medication to help with his breathing and his heart. They also had to remove the artery line in Nates neck that was hooked up to his dialysis. When they tried to re-insert it early this morning his heart rate increased extremely high and had to be brought back down with medication. Nate also started with a fever and had to be put on a number of different antibiotics to help control infection.
This morning just before noon they were able to re-insert the artery line. Nate is still paralized to control his breathing. He needed to be restarted on his blood pressure medication again as well. Nathan is still in very critical condition.
Please continue to pray that our Heavenly Father will continue to uphold and sustain Nathan and myself as well as the hands of the doctors and nurses.
At this time we would also like to ask that you pray for my younger brother Scott and his fiancee Michelle Ravensbergen. They are D.V. to be married this Saturday.
"I lift up my eyes to the hills-where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121: 1-2
Nathan had a very difficult night last night. He had to be paralized with medication to help with his breathing and his heart. They also had to remove the artery line in Nates neck that was hooked up to his dialysis. When they tried to re-insert it early this morning his heart rate increased extremely high and had to be brought back down with medication. Nate also started with a fever and had to be put on a number of different antibiotics to help control infection.
This morning just before noon they were able to re-insert the artery line. Nate is still paralized to control his breathing. He needed to be restarted on his blood pressure medication again as well. Nathan is still in very critical condition.
Please continue to pray that our Heavenly Father will continue to uphold and sustain Nathan and myself as well as the hands of the doctors and nurses.
At this time we would also like to ask that you pray for my younger brother Scott and his fiancee Michelle Ravensbergen. They are D.V. to be married this Saturday.
"I lift up my eyes to the hills-where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121: 1-2
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
"I'll thank Thee O my God and Saviour,
And praise Thee in my even song.
The sun may set but Thy great favour
Shalt Thou through darkest night prolong.
Thy help and grace were ever near us;
More then a father didst Thou care.
Thou Fount of blessing, Thou dost hear us;
Thy wonderous mercies I declare." Hymn 63:1
This song speaks so clearly now, He has through darkest night been there, He does care more then a father.
Nathan had a 'good' night last night. They seem to have gotten his breathing a little more under control, but have had to give him medication for pain and sedation. Nate did not need any more blood products through the night and his hemoglobin has come up a bit.
I'm not sure what the plan is for Nate today but hopefully it is to let his body rest and get some strength.
Much thanks for your continued prayers.
Please hold us in your prayers and pray for the hands of the doctors and nurses as well.
"I know in whom my hope is founded
Through ever-changing day and night.
Thou hast me with Thy love surrounded;
Thou art my Rock, I trust Thy might.
When once life's evening veils enshround me,
I'll bring, though worn by ills and strife,
For every day Thou hast allowed me
Thee higher praise, O God of life!" Hymn 63:2
And praise Thee in my even song.
The sun may set but Thy great favour
Shalt Thou through darkest night prolong.
Thy help and grace were ever near us;
More then a father didst Thou care.
Thou Fount of blessing, Thou dost hear us;
Thy wonderous mercies I declare." Hymn 63:1
This song speaks so clearly now, He has through darkest night been there, He does care more then a father.
Nathan had a 'good' night last night. They seem to have gotten his breathing a little more under control, but have had to give him medication for pain and sedation. Nate did not need any more blood products through the night and his hemoglobin has come up a bit.
I'm not sure what the plan is for Nate today but hopefully it is to let his body rest and get some strength.
Much thanks for your continued prayers.
Please hold us in your prayers and pray for the hands of the doctors and nurses as well.
"I know in whom my hope is founded
Through ever-changing day and night.
Thou hast me with Thy love surrounded;
Thou art my Rock, I trust Thy might.
When once life's evening veils enshround me,
I'll bring, though worn by ills and strife,
For every day Thou hast allowed me
Thee higher praise, O God of life!" Hymn 63:2
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
"Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever." Psalm 107:1
This evening at 5:00 the doctors took Nathan back to the OR. They needed to go in and try to stop the bleeding on the left side and to have a good look at the other areas of incision.
At about 8:15 Dr. Copper the plastic surgeon came into talk to me. He said Nathan did well through surgery. They had to do a bit of work on the right leg; move one muscle over and cover a nerve. They put a splint on the leg as well to keep it in position. The left stump required a little bit of tissue removal, they covered it and are hoping to put the vaccu dressing back on in a couple of days. It is a dressing they use to keep the tissue moist but to take out the extra fluid. Nates right arm they said looked good, they only had to remove a small amount of tissue and then they put the vaccu dressing on the arm. They also had to close up some areas of concern on the left side of the torso. They were able to also sew up both the right and left sides. Nate is not "out of the woods" but he is definately not as sick as he was the last couple days
Tonight he is struggling because of pain.
We are thankful that Nate is with us and the doctors are happy with his progress.
Praise be to our Father in Heaven for sustaining Nate this far. We pray that He will continue to grant healing and protect Nates life.
Please continue to pray for Nate, myself, our children, our families and the nurses and doctors. May God give us strength each day again.
If you are able to donate blood, please do so. Much thanks to those who have or who are going to. If you are unable, please continue to pray.
"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. " Philip 4: 6-7
This evening at 5:00 the doctors took Nathan back to the OR. They needed to go in and try to stop the bleeding on the left side and to have a good look at the other areas of incision.
At about 8:15 Dr. Copper the plastic surgeon came into talk to me. He said Nathan did well through surgery. They had to do a bit of work on the right leg; move one muscle over and cover a nerve. They put a splint on the leg as well to keep it in position. The left stump required a little bit of tissue removal, they covered it and are hoping to put the vaccu dressing back on in a couple of days. It is a dressing they use to keep the tissue moist but to take out the extra fluid. Nates right arm they said looked good, they only had to remove a small amount of tissue and then they put the vaccu dressing on the arm. They also had to close up some areas of concern on the left side of the torso. They were able to also sew up both the right and left sides. Nate is not "out of the woods" but he is definately not as sick as he was the last couple days
Tonight he is struggling because of pain.
We are thankful that Nate is with us and the doctors are happy with his progress.
Praise be to our Father in Heaven for sustaining Nate this far. We pray that He will continue to grant healing and protect Nates life.
Please continue to pray for Nate, myself, our children, our families and the nurses and doctors. May God give us strength each day again.
If you are able to donate blood, please do so. Much thanks to those who have or who are going to. If you are unable, please continue to pray.
"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. " Philip 4: 6-7
"He tends His flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young" Isaiah 40: 11
Once again the LORD sustained Nathan's life through the night. Nate required a lot of blood last night again as well as increased sedation.
We are awaiting doctors to assess Nate's limbs and other incision sites.
Please continue to pray for Nate, that the LORD may continue to sustain him.
Please pray for myself and our children - Taryn and Aiden. We are all struggling and need your prayers to lift us and help us.
Please also donate blood, as of 5:30 this morning Nate has required enough blood for 5 grown men. Please donate!
Once again the LORD sustained Nathan's life through the night. Nate required a lot of blood last night again as well as increased sedation.
We are awaiting doctors to assess Nate's limbs and other incision sites.
Please continue to pray for Nate, that the LORD may continue to sustain him.
Please pray for myself and our children - Taryn and Aiden. We are all struggling and need your prayers to lift us and help us.
Please also donate blood, as of 5:30 this morning Nate has required enough blood for 5 grown men. Please donate!
Monday, November 1, 2010
"One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock." Psalm 27:4-5
How beautifully this Psalm speaks to us at this time. Our faithful Saviour has kept Nathan and myself safe, He has sheltered us and set us high upon a rock. Nathan's life has been spared up to this point and we are ever gracious of this precious gift of life. The road we are travelling is far from over but even in the dark days we have seen His will and plan at work. The blessings He has bestowed upon us not only in regards to how Nathan has done but also how as a family we can be drawn together in prayer and song. We do not understand His master plan but we know it is a beautiful plan.
Nathan's Heavenly Father has spared Nate's life again last night and allowed him a peaceful sleep. Yestarday was the LORD's day, the day of rest and He gave Nathan a day to rest as well. They started to tube feed Nate. (A tube through his mouth to his stomach) This is to help build up his calories and give him some nutrition. They also had to place a bite guard in Nates mouth, he kept clamping down and biting on his breathing tube. We can see Nates personnality shinning through here in his perseverence and determination. Yestarday morning they went in and stiched up a few more arteries that were bleeding and at time of writting, the bleeding has slowed to seeping.
Yestarday they were also able to wean Nate off his blood pressure medication and God has graciously allowed Nates blood pressure to remain stable. They have also started to remove more fluid build up via dialysis and Nate has tolerated this as well. As I write this it brings it even closer to home how our Heavenly Father cares for His covenant children.
Nathan is not "out of the woods" medically speaking, there are many obsticles that as per the doctors he must still over come and still may happen, but we are thankful that it is God directing all things.
Nate is still at risk for further spread of infection and many other complications but even as I write I am reminded we must turn to the present time and be thankful for how God has been gracious to Nate. We must be thankful for all things even in difficult times when I struggle with the questions and the concern and worry.
I am so thankful that God has given us the communion of saints, your prayers are coveted and your words of encouragement are such a blessing. May our Heavenly Father strengthen each of you as you struggle with the questions. Turn to Him in prayer and petition.
"The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him." Nahum 1:7
How beautifully this Psalm speaks to us at this time. Our faithful Saviour has kept Nathan and myself safe, He has sheltered us and set us high upon a rock. Nathan's life has been spared up to this point and we are ever gracious of this precious gift of life. The road we are travelling is far from over but even in the dark days we have seen His will and plan at work. The blessings He has bestowed upon us not only in regards to how Nathan has done but also how as a family we can be drawn together in prayer and song. We do not understand His master plan but we know it is a beautiful plan.
Nathan's Heavenly Father has spared Nate's life again last night and allowed him a peaceful sleep. Yestarday was the LORD's day, the day of rest and He gave Nathan a day to rest as well. They started to tube feed Nate. (A tube through his mouth to his stomach) This is to help build up his calories and give him some nutrition. They also had to place a bite guard in Nates mouth, he kept clamping down and biting on his breathing tube. We can see Nates personnality shinning through here in his perseverence and determination. Yestarday morning they went in and stiched up a few more arteries that were bleeding and at time of writting, the bleeding has slowed to seeping.
Yestarday they were also able to wean Nate off his blood pressure medication and God has graciously allowed Nates blood pressure to remain stable. They have also started to remove more fluid build up via dialysis and Nate has tolerated this as well. As I write this it brings it even closer to home how our Heavenly Father cares for His covenant children.
Nathan is not "out of the woods" medically speaking, there are many obsticles that as per the doctors he must still over come and still may happen, but we are thankful that it is God directing all things.
Nate is still at risk for further spread of infection and many other complications but even as I write I am reminded we must turn to the present time and be thankful for how God has been gracious to Nate. We must be thankful for all things even in difficult times when I struggle with the questions and the concern and worry.
I am so thankful that God has given us the communion of saints, your prayers are coveted and your words of encouragement are such a blessing. May our Heavenly Father strengthen each of you as you struggle with the questions. Turn to Him in prayer and petition.
"The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him." Nahum 1:7
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