March 11, 2017: Day +111

Daughter Angie with Grandson Cole and Foster Grandson Jordan

Today was a restorative day.  I began the day by helping a friend of mine prepare for her ordination next week.  It was so delightful to share her anticipation and excitement as we practiced for her role as a deacon in the Episcopal Church.  She will be ordained next week in Nampa.  She will be a blessing to many.

I then went into Boise to be with Doug.  He was very nervous when I left him last night.  They were taking out his catheter this morning.  There was much concern if his bladder would work appropriately after having a catheter for 3 months.  I figured he would need encouragement and moral support.  But again, our fears were relieved, because Doug's bladder is working just fine. As of right now, there is no need to put the catheter back in. We celebrated with a latte and a scone.  

Angie, invited me to meet her, Cole and their new foster son at Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center.  I have so missed having time with my grandson.  With Doug doing well, beautiful weather, my knee so much improved, I was delighted to meet them. It was great to be outside, watching fish, birds, squirrels and the owls.  It was so nice to have some normal time, in a beautiful place with people I love.

Later we picked up Tom and went back to the hospital to visit.  It was so nice for Doug to see everyone and to meet our new foster grandson.  It just felt good to have all of us together.

Doug worked with a physical therapist this afternoon that contracts with St. Luke's. She had worked with Doug at Vibra.  It was great for her to see the progress that Doug has made.  She got him into a standing frame and worked on strengthening his legs. And then she helped Doug into a stand to transfer to his small electric wheelchair that I had brought from home. Doug was able to take his chair into the hallway by himself.  He did just fine controlling the joystick and sitting in his chair with no additional supports. He has come so far.  He may not need the wheelchair  that the team was pushing me towards on Wednesday.

All this progress confirms for me that we don't know where Doug will be in 2 to 3 weeks.  He is certainly continuing to make good consistent progress.  He is beginning to feel and see the differences in himself.

And so we pray:

God with Us, it is so easy to become discouraged or to loose faith.  Thank you for continued signs of healing and for putting people on our path that share our vision.  Thank you for the gift of time. Thank you for the joy and enthusiasm of children, 

the love family and the blessing of shared ministry. Be with us this week, as Doug continues to heal and we pray that each day brings him closer to walking.  In your name we ask it.  Amen