Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Pain Doctor
Tomorrow, Mom & Dad are going to Mom's pain doctor appointment. Please pray that everything will go well and that the doctor will try a new treatment or refer her to someone who can help.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Research
Mom woke up at 4am this morning and started researching causes for her pain. She came across a doctor who wrote about occipital neuralgia, and Mom said that all of the signs and symptoms are just like hers. The pain is due to whiplash or a fall. We have not thought much about it, but Mom had a huge fall on the BACK of her head with the puppies. All of her pain in on the right side of her head and neck.
She is going to see her doctor on Thursday and talk to her about this idea. This has given Mom hope because she feels sometimes that what she is experiencing the doctors do not see as real pain. Please pray that her doctor will have wisdom and know how to treat her.
She is going to see her doctor on Thursday and talk to her about this idea. This has given Mom hope because she feels sometimes that what she is experiencing the doctors do not see as real pain. Please pray that her doctor will have wisdom and know how to treat her.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Pain will not Leave
I am sorry for not keeping everyone up to date with what is going on with mom and her recovery. I have asked so many times for prayer, and I need to ask you again to continue to pray.
For Thanksgiving, Mom, Dad, and Elisabeth drove up to Virginia so that we could all have Thanksgiving together at Josh's. At that point, Mom was doing great. Her pain was down to a level one and her energy was high. She felt great.
I do not know if I have mentioned this before but when Mom went to her pain doctor, she said that she believes that Mom was positioned incorrectly for her surgery. The result of this is a possible pinched nerve in her neck that might be casing all of this pain. Mom has had two nerve blocks on either sides of her neck to try and reduce the pain. The procedure is extremely painful because the doctor sticks multiple injections of steroids into different points in Mom's neck.
After Thanksgiving, Mom was exhausted from the travel and being with so many people. Then just before Christmas, my parents went to a Christmas concert that had strobe lights and very loud music. Mom was overwhelmed, and Dad had to almost carry her out because it was too much for her. My parents both think that that incident set her back to before Thanksgiving. Her pain has escalated.
During the mornings, Mom does fairly well expect many mornings she wakes up from sleep due to the terrible pain as well as being dizzy. Throughout the day, she tries to cope and most afternoons she needs to rest. Then at night, the pain overtakes her body.
My parents are going back to Mom's pain doctor this coming week. Please pray that she will have another option of how to treat the pain. If not, please pray that Mom and Dad will seek other medical advice and go to a bigger city for more options.
Please pray for complete healing for Mom. She can not continue to live like this. Also, please pray for Dad and Elisabeth because this has been hard on everyone.
For Thanksgiving, Mom, Dad, and Elisabeth drove up to Virginia so that we could all have Thanksgiving together at Josh's. At that point, Mom was doing great. Her pain was down to a level one and her energy was high. She felt great.
I do not know if I have mentioned this before but when Mom went to her pain doctor, she said that she believes that Mom was positioned incorrectly for her surgery. The result of this is a possible pinched nerve in her neck that might be casing all of this pain. Mom has had two nerve blocks on either sides of her neck to try and reduce the pain. The procedure is extremely painful because the doctor sticks multiple injections of steroids into different points in Mom's neck.
After Thanksgiving, Mom was exhausted from the travel and being with so many people. Then just before Christmas, my parents went to a Christmas concert that had strobe lights and very loud music. Mom was overwhelmed, and Dad had to almost carry her out because it was too much for her. My parents both think that that incident set her back to before Thanksgiving. Her pain has escalated.
During the mornings, Mom does fairly well expect many mornings she wakes up from sleep due to the terrible pain as well as being dizzy. Throughout the day, she tries to cope and most afternoons she needs to rest. Then at night, the pain overtakes her body.
My parents are going back to Mom's pain doctor this coming week. Please pray that she will have another option of how to treat the pain. If not, please pray that Mom and Dad will seek other medical advice and go to a bigger city for more options.
Please pray for complete healing for Mom. She can not continue to live like this. Also, please pray for Dad and Elisabeth because this has been hard on everyone.
Friday, November 20, 2009
"My pain is a level one"
Mom called me this morning and said that her pain is at a level one! For those of you that do not know, in the medical field we always ask our patients what their pain rating is, ten being the worst pain they have ever experienced. Mom was thrilled with how she feels today. She woke up this morning and has not felt this well since April. Thank you, thank you for your prayers. Please continue to pray that she will continue to feel well and improve. We really appreciate your support.
Monday, November 16, 2009
More Pain
Mom went to her pain physician today for treatment. Recently, the doctor has started her on shots of low-dose steroids into her neck to try and help the inflammation of the nerves and muscles. It usually helps with her pain, but the procedure is painful, as you can imagine of having needles injected into her neck. This time, however, she was given versed, which is used for conscious sedation. it helps during the procedure, but mom was in severe pain from the procedure and extremely nauseous when she got home.
Please pray for her pain and that there would be complete healing in her body. I think that mom is hitting the point of when the doctors consider her pain to be chronic, which is when pain becomes harder to treat. Please pray that her body would be completely restored and that she would be pain-free. She never complains about how much she suffers and continues to bless others throughout this situation. Thank you so much for your prayers and support.
Please pray for her pain and that there would be complete healing in her body. I think that mom is hitting the point of when the doctors consider her pain to be chronic, which is when pain becomes harder to treat. Please pray that her body would be completely restored and that she would be pain-free. She never complains about how much she suffers and continues to bless others throughout this situation. Thank you so much for your prayers and support.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Three MRIs and Spinal Tap
Last Tuesday, Mom went for three MRIs of her brain and spinal cord. Then on Thursday she had a spinal tap. She also went to the ophthalmologist to see if there was any pressure build up behind her eyes. He did not find any.
After the spinal tap, her migraine increased in pain, she was nauseous and had pain down her spine. The pain did not subside so on Friday I talked with her, and she had Dad call the hospital. Mom and Dad went in and after waiting for hours, they took her back and did a blood patch on her spine. They took blood from her arm and infused it into her back. She had an epidural afterwhich she had to lay flat for thirty minutes.
Friday night and Saturday, Mom felt better and her nauseous subsided. Sunday morning however, she woke up and the pain was as bad as it had been on Friday before the blood patch.
Today, Mom and Dad are returning to meet with the surgeon who will hopefully have some type of result from all of the tests that have been done. Please pray that he will find something that will take away the migraine and spinal pain.
After the spinal tap, her migraine increased in pain, she was nauseous and had pain down her spine. The pain did not subside so on Friday I talked with her, and she had Dad call the hospital. Mom and Dad went in and after waiting for hours, they took her back and did a blood patch on her spine. They took blood from her arm and infused it into her back. She had an epidural afterwhich she had to lay flat for thirty minutes.
Friday night and Saturday, Mom felt better and her nauseous subsided. Sunday morning however, she woke up and the pain was as bad as it had been on Friday before the blood patch.
Today, Mom and Dad are returning to meet with the surgeon who will hopefully have some type of result from all of the tests that have been done. Please pray that he will find something that will take away the migraine and spinal pain.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Continue to Pray Please
Mom continues to have a constant migraine. Mom and Dad have gone to see an neurologist who was extremely unhelpful. They are looking into other options for doctors to find a solution to her migraine. Please pray that she will be completely healed from all of the pain.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Continuous Headache
I appreciate all those who continue to pray for my complete recovery. I am sorry that I haven't posted recently, but the headache continues...
On July 7 we went to the neurologist who spent about 30 minutes patiently talking and asking questions. Because the headache never ceases, and it moves around my head, he thinks that it is due to post-operative stress. He prescribed new medicine, and ordered blood work, an EEG and an ultrasound of the blood flow to and from my head. He said that the medicine should help the pain but to wait for the effect at least 1 week. So here I am 12 days later still battling a continuous headache. I tire easily and have to take a nap each afternoon. I do try to exercise daily either walking or going to water aerobics. In the midst of the pain, I am learning to be still before God, reading His Word, praying and trying to learn the lessons He has for me in this season of life.
On a happier note, last weekend I was able to go on a road trip with my friend Patty! She was the driver, I was the navigator to the OM USA office in Tyrone, Georgia where there was a craft weekend! Most people worked on scrapbooks, but also card making, jewelry making and counted cross stitch. It was so much fun to sit and chat as we worked. A great blessing was to renew friendships with OM women from early ship days as well as Austria!
Another unexpected blessing is in process! There is a regional Christian women's magazine called SHE. I have been selected for a make-over that will appear in the September issue! Surprisingly it includes not only hair, nails, make-up, and a new outfit, but also intensive skin care and weight reduction! (Since surgery I gained 15.5 pounds due to steroids and inactivity.) What a great way to finish my 50th, Jubilee year!!!
On July 7 we went to the neurologist who spent about 30 minutes patiently talking and asking questions. Because the headache never ceases, and it moves around my head, he thinks that it is due to post-operative stress. He prescribed new medicine, and ordered blood work, an EEG and an ultrasound of the blood flow to and from my head. He said that the medicine should help the pain but to wait for the effect at least 1 week. So here I am 12 days later still battling a continuous headache. I tire easily and have to take a nap each afternoon. I do try to exercise daily either walking or going to water aerobics. In the midst of the pain, I am learning to be still before God, reading His Word, praying and trying to learn the lessons He has for me in this season of life.
On a happier note, last weekend I was able to go on a road trip with my friend Patty! She was the driver, I was the navigator to the OM USA office in Tyrone, Georgia where there was a craft weekend! Most people worked on scrapbooks, but also card making, jewelry making and counted cross stitch. It was so much fun to sit and chat as we worked. A great blessing was to renew friendships with OM women from early ship days as well as Austria!
Another unexpected blessing is in process! There is a regional Christian women's magazine called SHE. I have been selected for a make-over that will appear in the September issue! Surprisingly it includes not only hair, nails, make-up, and a new outfit, but also intensive skin care and weight reduction! (Since surgery I gained 15.5 pounds due to steroids and inactivity.) What a great way to finish my 50th, Jubilee year!!!
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Ongoing Recovery
It's Saturday afternoon here in sunny, hot Florence, South Carolina! Thank you so much for your continued prayers, cards, calls, rides to appointments, and meals as I continue the recovery process.
I'm counting blessings again today:
* Dr. Naso, my neurosurgeon, read the recent MRI- my brain looks fine, with no swelling!
* I have just completed 3 weeks, 9 sessions of physical therapy
* Dr. Naso released me to travel as a car passenger beyond the borders of South Carolina!
* I may begin swimming laps when I feel well enough
* Once the headaches are less severe I may begin to drive short distances
* I am scheduled to meet a neurologist on July 7 to find a solution to the headaches
Please pray for Joe and Elisabeth as they continue as caregivers. They actually have more tasks around the house these days because the headache pain is keeping me in bed or sitting much of the day and evening.
Dr. Naso said that people who have had headaches in the past are more likely to experience headaches after brain surgery. The physical therapist has explained that not only do I need more physical strength, balance and endurance, but also desensitization as well as cognitive training. He suggested the purchase of a Nintendo DS game called Brain Age, so this week I have begun to lower my brain age from the initial test of age 70!
The welcome mat is out for those of you who travel on I-95 and 20!
I'm counting blessings again today:
* Dr. Naso, my neurosurgeon, read the recent MRI- my brain looks fine, with no swelling!
* I have just completed 3 weeks, 9 sessions of physical therapy
* Dr. Naso released me to travel as a car passenger beyond the borders of South Carolina!
* I may begin swimming laps when I feel well enough
* Once the headaches are less severe I may begin to drive short distances
* I am scheduled to meet a neurologist on July 7 to find a solution to the headaches
Please pray for Joe and Elisabeth as they continue as caregivers. They actually have more tasks around the house these days because the headache pain is keeping me in bed or sitting much of the day and evening.
Dr. Naso said that people who have had headaches in the past are more likely to experience headaches after brain surgery. The physical therapist has explained that not only do I need more physical strength, balance and endurance, but also desensitization as well as cognitive training. He suggested the purchase of a Nintendo DS game called Brain Age, so this week I have begun to lower my brain age from the initial test of age 70!
The welcome mat is out for those of you who travel on I-95 and 20!
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Meningioma Information
Mom asked me to post this information about brain tumors and specifically meningiomas, which is the type of tumor that she had removed.
May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month
I was surprised to read this as I gathered information from the American Brain Tumor Association!! That may explain why a few network TV shows incorporated brain tumors into their season finales this month, i.e. Bones, House, and Grey's Anatomy.
Some people have asked for more specifics about my brain tumor and surgery so here it is:
Meningiomas
Meningiomas arise from the lining of the brain called the "meninges." There are three layers: the dura mater, the arachnoid, and the pia mater. Meningiomas grow out of the middle layer -- the arachnoid. Accounting for almost half of all primary brain tumors, meningiomas are now the most common primary brain tumor
Preoperative diagnosis: large left posterior frontal, anterior parietal parasagittal meningioma
On April 1 the neurosurgeon performed a craniotomy.He opened the dura and excised circumferentially around its attachment to the tumor. The tumor expanded as it went into the depths. He debulked the tumor using an ultrasonic aspirator, a bipolar, sucker and scissors. The older part of the tumor in the center had calcified. The tumor was completely removed. After a graft, sutures, cranial facial plates, the skin edges were approximated with staples.
The pathologist reported that the tumor was benign!!!!
I will have periodic MRIs. It is unlikely that another tumor will ever grow, but if any cells ever appear, the neurosurgeon advises that a gamma knife is used.
May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month
I was surprised to read this as I gathered information from the American Brain Tumor Association!! That may explain why a few network TV shows incorporated brain tumors into their season finales this month, i.e. Bones, House, and Grey's Anatomy.
Some people have asked for more specifics about my brain tumor and surgery so here it is:
Meningiomas
Meningiomas arise from the lining of the brain called the "meninges." There are three layers: the dura mater, the arachnoid, and the pia mater. Meningiomas grow out of the middle layer -- the arachnoid. Accounting for almost half of all primary brain tumors, meningiomas are now the most common primary brain tumor
Preoperative diagnosis: large left posterior frontal, anterior parietal parasagittal meningioma
On April 1 the neurosurgeon performed a craniotomy.He opened the dura and excised circumferentially around its attachment to the tumor. The tumor expanded as it went into the depths. He debulked the tumor using an ultrasonic aspirator, a bipolar, sucker and scissors. The older part of the tumor in the center had calcified. The tumor was completely removed. After a graft, sutures, cranial facial plates, the skin edges were approximated with staples.
The pathologist reported that the tumor was benign!!!!
I will have periodic MRIs. It is unlikely that another tumor will ever grow, but if any cells ever appear, the neurosurgeon advises that a gamma knife is used.
Ship Information
Mom wanted me to post information about the two OM ships for those of you who are interested in them.
If you enjoy these short glimpses, you'll enjoy our website with longer articles and lots of photographs especially designed for Carolina folks! www.OMShips.org/carolina.
And the main OM Ships website is full of articles, photos and videos about life and work on board Doulos and Logos Hope. www.OMShips.org
Doulos
Current port is Keelung, Taiwan
Logos Hope
Current port is Cardiff, Wales - UK
If you enjoy these short glimpses, you'll enjoy our website with longer articles and lots of photographs especially designed for Carolina folks! www.OMShips.org/carolina.
And the main OM Ships website is full of articles, photos and videos about life and work on board Doulos and Logos Hope. www.OMShips.org
Doulos
Current port is Keelung, Taiwan
Logos Hope
Current port is Cardiff, Wales - UK
Friday, May 29, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
May Update
Dear Family and Friends,
How I appreciate your many prayers for complete recovery! Since I wrote 4 weeks ago, it's time for another update.
Here are a few of the blessings of the month:
*precious friends from as far away as Elgin, Illinois and as close as in back of our fence stayed and/or visited, called while Joe was away on another ministry trip- this time in California.
*school friends drove Elisabeth to school and rehearsals
*returned to water aerobics class for 1 class
*celebrated Mother's Day with a joyful, thankful heart
*welcomed Aileen home from the 13th-26th and appreciated both daughter and nurse loving care
* welcomed Mom and John to Florence
*We all attended both performances of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory especially enjoying seeing Elisabeth as Mrs. Bucket on Saturday evening.
*doctors' appointments which gave answers, changed medications, and confirmed progress in healing
*enjoyed attending The King's Academy upper school awards ceremony - feeling both thankful and proud of Elisabeth's academic excellence during 9th grade
* celebrated Aileen's 22nd birthday by visiting Myrtle Beach for the first time
* celebrated Memorial Day with new friends and neighbors, while remembering all the Americans who have given their lives in defense of the USA
* OM ships continued sailing and visiting ports in the Faroe Islands, Northern Ireland, Ireland and Taiwan
We were told that the steroids would be in my system for 4 - 6 weeks after I stopped taking them. Sure enough on May 6, I began to experience pain in my head, neck, spine and stomach. In some ways I think my loved ones were relieved to see that I no longer raced around without sleep, and actually stayed in bed for naps.
During one of the times as I rested I heard Joni Eareckson Toda on the radio. She spoke about living with pain, and offering it up to the Lord as a sacrifice, learning to trust, thank and glorify God each day. How humbling those words were for me to hear, and silenced my complaining heart. Joni and other disabled people live decades with daily pain. What I am experiencing is all part of a healing process. I continue to desire God's will, to learn, listen and grow. Will you please pray that I will patiently wait on the Lord?
On Monday, June 1 a MRI is scheduled as part of the post-op procedure. I will also begin physical therapy. On June 24 is an appointment with Dr. Naso, my neurosurgeon. Hopefully, he will find that the healing has progressed enough that I may resume more normal activities such as longer travel, helping in Vacation Bible School, and maybe even driving a car.
Thank you so much for your love and prayers,
Badeen
Monday, May 18, 2009
Bath Time!
Thursday after I got home, the puppies each had a bath. This is Aida in the sink in the laundry room...she does not look too happy, but she loves the water and did not try to climb out as much as Bailey.Monday
I have not updated this blog in a while, since I was finishing school and wanted to see how things were at home before posting again.
So, I finished school last Monday, packed up my dorm room, moved things to storage, and then drove home on Wednesday. It was great to see Mom, and she has improved a lot since I saw her last in the hospital.
Please continue to pray for her though even though she is improving, it is still a long process of recovery for her. It has been difficult for her for relax and rest. When she feels good, she wants to be up and doing things - cleaning the house, playing with the puppies, etc. But it gets to be too much, so she needs to learn to pace herself. Last Monday, she started having headaches, which could be from the steroids finally being out of her body. Then on Thursday, she started having pain down her spine and into her lower back. The pain has continued this week, and it is better in the morning and then worsens throughout the day. She has an appointment at Dr. Naso's office on Friday, so hopefully he will be able to tell her if this is normal and if there is anything that he can perscribe for the pain.
This past weekend, Grammie and John drove down from Pennsylvania and stayed from Friday until this morning. Friday night, we all went to Charlie in the Chocolate Factory at Elisabeth's school. Elisabeth was double cast for the role of Mrs. Bucket, so on Saturday night we went to see her perform. She did a great job and loved having a solo!
The tumor was on the part of Mom's brain that controls her emotions, so please pray that she will continue to heal and make a quick and full recovery. Please pray for Dad that he will have strength and patience. Also, please be praying for Elisabeth because she does not complain, but all of these changes are a lot for a freshman in high school. I will be home until May 26th, so please pray that I will know how to help them and around the house.
So, I finished school last Monday, packed up my dorm room, moved things to storage, and then drove home on Wednesday. It was great to see Mom, and she has improved a lot since I saw her last in the hospital.
Please continue to pray for her though even though she is improving, it is still a long process of recovery for her. It has been difficult for her for relax and rest. When she feels good, she wants to be up and doing things - cleaning the house, playing with the puppies, etc. But it gets to be too much, so she needs to learn to pace herself. Last Monday, she started having headaches, which could be from the steroids finally being out of her body. Then on Thursday, she started having pain down her spine and into her lower back. The pain has continued this week, and it is better in the morning and then worsens throughout the day. She has an appointment at Dr. Naso's office on Friday, so hopefully he will be able to tell her if this is normal and if there is anything that he can perscribe for the pain.
This past weekend, Grammie and John drove down from Pennsylvania and stayed from Friday until this morning. Friday night, we all went to Charlie in the Chocolate Factory at Elisabeth's school. Elisabeth was double cast for the role of Mrs. Bucket, so on Saturday night we went to see her perform. She did a great job and loved having a solo!
The tumor was on the part of Mom's brain that controls her emotions, so please pray that she will continue to heal and make a quick and full recovery. Please pray for Dad that he will have strength and patience. Also, please be praying for Elisabeth because she does not complain, but all of these changes are a lot for a freshman in high school. I will be home until May 26th, so please pray that I will know how to help them and around the house.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Email from Mom
Dear Praying Family and Friends,
Exactly 4 weeks ago today my family and Pastor George Carr checked me in to Mcleod Health for brain surgery. This morning I am sitting in our kitchen thanking the Lord, enjoying a sunny South Carolina day with the puppies Aida and Bailey asleep on their blanket! How good God is!! I write to thank all of you for the precious prayers, a hymn sing, cards, phone calls, e-mails, visits, flowers, gifts, delicious meals delivered, practical tasks, rides for Elisabeth, not to mention care givers extending love, mercy and patience. I echo the words of Paul: "I thank my God every time I remember you" (Philippians 1:3) Until I am able to contact you personally, please accept my gratitude via this group e-mail.
Yesterday the neurosurgery called to request that we come at 9:15 rather than the afternoon. Elisabeth was at The King's Academy, having been dropped off by her Daddy, who arrived home safely Saturday evening from OM's newest ship, the Logos Hope.
(The ship was berthed in the country of the Faroe Islands, so yes, please indulge this old, former Baltimore County Social Studies teacher, and look it up on a world map... hint: northern Europe!)
Dr. Naso, my neurosurgeon checked my reflexes, commented on the good healing of my "hairband" incision, and agreed that I no longer need to take any prescription pills! I may take as needed over the counter pills for headaches and/or pain. Beginning in May I will return to Mcleod fitness and enjoy exercising with my water aerobic buddies!! I will continue to be driven around town by care-givers until at least June 24, the next scheduled check-up.
(Have you ever seen Driving Miss Daisy? We really do have a Piggly Wiggly here in Florence!)
Thank you to all who are praying for rest and sleep. Last night I was sleeping/resting in my bed for a full 8 hours!
Have you heard the phrase, "Hindsight is 20/20"? As I look back at the 261 days since Elisabeth and I arrived in Florence, I rejoice over so many answers to prayer:
feeling warmly welcomed, accepted and encouraged to settle here after over 20 years overseas serving God
meeting the orthodentist to begin Elisabeth's long awaited treatment
registering at The King's Academy, a wonderful Christ-centered private school for Elisabeth's first day of attending school in the USA
meeting Elisabeth's 9th grade girl classmates at a party especially lovingly given by fellow classmate and OM kid Lisa and her mother Rosalyn
staying in a furnished condo of dear Christians
borrowing an OM car to drive after 2 years of hardly ever driving while living on MV Doulos
seeing our new home under construction of expert builder John and his lovingly hospitable, helpful wife Angela along with their skilled team of electricians, plumber, cabinetry maker, etc.
visiting churches in the area, being lovingly welcomed at each, then realizing that Lamb's Chapel would become our new local church home
realizing that providentially our associate Pastor Jerry is part of the real estate team of our new development, Villa Toscana
I could go on and on about the many concentric threads that have been woven together, but you can see that we have experienced day by day the truth of Proverbs 3:4-6. By the time that dear husband and father arrived in September, we were all seeing God's blessings and clear direction.
On October 12 our family expanded to welcome our daughter-in-love Kari and her dear parents Albert and Andrea along with many relatives, army and FBI work colleagues and friends in Manhattan Beach, California.
Each day I have prayed, " Lord, direct my steps" as the Psalmist wrote, and also as young Samuel prayed, "Speak Lord for your servant is listening". Most of you have heard about how God used even the mis-steps when puppies Aida and Bailey caused me to fall on March 22. The scan of my head revealed the benign brain tumor. How grateful we are to be here in Florence, and to have received such excellent care from the neurosurgery practice, the internal medicine group, as well as so many professional staff at Mcleod Health.
Now during this time of recuperation, I am determining in my heart to pray, read God's Word, and listen to my Good Shepherd who leads me as in Psalm 23. Please do send me your prayer requests!
I am happy to have visitors! I am happy to prepare from my British heritage a cup of hot tea, from time in Asia a cup of hot green tea, from Austrian years a cup of strong hot coffee, and now I am learning to have Southern tea ready, a Florence favorite, which is sweetened iced tea!
Loving thanks,
Badeen
Exactly 4 weeks ago today my family and Pastor George Carr checked me in to Mcleod Health for brain surgery. This morning I am sitting in our kitchen thanking the Lord, enjoying a sunny South Carolina day with the puppies Aida and Bailey asleep on their blanket! How good God is!! I write to thank all of you for the precious prayers, a hymn sing, cards, phone calls, e-mails, visits, flowers, gifts, delicious meals delivered, practical tasks, rides for Elisabeth, not to mention care givers extending love, mercy and patience. I echo the words of Paul: "I thank my God every time I remember you" (Philippians 1:3) Until I am able to contact you personally, please accept my gratitude via this group e-mail.
Yesterday the neurosurgery called to request that we come at 9:15 rather than the afternoon. Elisabeth was at The King's Academy, having been dropped off by her Daddy, who arrived home safely Saturday evening from OM's newest ship, the Logos Hope.
(The ship was berthed in the country of the Faroe Islands, so yes, please indulge this old, former Baltimore County Social Studies teacher, and look it up on a world map... hint: northern Europe!)
Dr. Naso, my neurosurgeon checked my reflexes, commented on the good healing of my "hairband" incision, and agreed that I no longer need to take any prescription pills! I may take as needed over the counter pills for headaches and/or pain. Beginning in May I will return to Mcleod fitness and enjoy exercising with my water aerobic buddies!! I will continue to be driven around town by care-givers until at least June 24, the next scheduled check-up.
(Have you ever seen Driving Miss Daisy? We really do have a Piggly Wiggly here in Florence!)
Thank you to all who are praying for rest and sleep. Last night I was sleeping/resting in my bed for a full 8 hours!
Have you heard the phrase, "Hindsight is 20/20"? As I look back at the 261 days since Elisabeth and I arrived in Florence, I rejoice over so many answers to prayer:
feeling warmly welcomed, accepted and encouraged to settle here after over 20 years overseas serving God
meeting the orthodentist to begin Elisabeth's long awaited treatment
registering at The King's Academy, a wonderful Christ-centered private school for Elisabeth's first day of attending school in the USA
meeting Elisabeth's 9th grade girl classmates at a party especially lovingly given by fellow classmate and OM kid Lisa and her mother Rosalyn
staying in a furnished condo of dear Christians
borrowing an OM car to drive after 2 years of hardly ever driving while living on MV Doulos
seeing our new home under construction of expert builder John and his lovingly hospitable, helpful wife Angela along with their skilled team of electricians, plumber, cabinetry maker, etc.
visiting churches in the area, being lovingly welcomed at each, then realizing that Lamb's Chapel would become our new local church home
realizing that providentially our associate Pastor Jerry is part of the real estate team of our new development, Villa Toscana
I could go on and on about the many concentric threads that have been woven together, but you can see that we have experienced day by day the truth of Proverbs 3:4-6. By the time that dear husband and father arrived in September, we were all seeing God's blessings and clear direction.
On October 12 our family expanded to welcome our daughter-in-love Kari and her dear parents Albert and Andrea along with many relatives, army and FBI work colleagues and friends in Manhattan Beach, California.
Each day I have prayed, " Lord, direct my steps" as the Psalmist wrote, and also as young Samuel prayed, "Speak Lord for your servant is listening". Most of you have heard about how God used even the mis-steps when puppies Aida and Bailey caused me to fall on March 22. The scan of my head revealed the benign brain tumor. How grateful we are to be here in Florence, and to have received such excellent care from the neurosurgery practice, the internal medicine group, as well as so many professional staff at Mcleod Health.
Now during this time of recuperation, I am determining in my heart to pray, read God's Word, and listen to my Good Shepherd who leads me as in Psalm 23. Please do send me your prayer requests!
I am happy to have visitors! I am happy to prepare from my British heritage a cup of hot tea, from time in Asia a cup of hot green tea, from Austrian years a cup of strong hot coffee, and now I am learning to have Southern tea ready, a Florence favorite, which is sweetened iced tea!
Loving thanks,
Badeen
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Almost Home
Dad is on his way back from the Logos Hope. He should arrive in Columbia around 9:00pm, and then will drive home from there. Auntie A stayed with Mom during the week and left yesterday afternoon to take the train back to Maryland. A friend from church is staying with Mom until Dad returns home.
On Wednesday, Mom and Auntie A were in a little car accident. They are both fine, but the person clipped the front of the car and took off the front bumper. Mom went to see her doctor on Thursday just to be sure that everything was fine.
Elisabeth went to her first prom last night! I talked with her afterward, and she said that she had a great time with Josh Tong (her friend, whose parents work with Mom and Dad).
Please continue to pray for healing for Mom and that she would be able to rest as well. Please pray for protection for Dad as he travels today and that he will be able to get some rest when he returns home. Also, please pray about the car situation that insurance will cover all of the damages and that it will be fixed soon.
On Wednesday, Mom and Auntie A were in a little car accident. They are both fine, but the person clipped the front of the car and took off the front bumper. Mom went to see her doctor on Thursday just to be sure that everything was fine.
Elisabeth went to her first prom last night! I talked with her afterward, and she said that she had a great time with Josh Tong (her friend, whose parents work with Mom and Dad).
Please continue to pray for healing for Mom and that she would be able to rest as well. Please pray for protection for Dad as he travels today and that he will be able to get some rest when he returns home. Also, please pray about the car situation that insurance will cover all of the damages and that it will be fixed soon.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Faroe Islands
Dad arrived safely in the Faroe Islands after an eight hour delay. During his first night there, he slept for nine hours! Please pray that he will continue to get some sleep while he is on the Logos Hope. He is excited to be there and has met some of his old friends.
Yesterday, Mom and Cricket went to Lamb's Chapel for the first time since Mom's surgery. She loved being back at church. She also took Benadryl on Saturday night and said that she slept for a few more hours than usual, which is great.
Please continue to pray for healing and a full recovery for Mom.
Yesterday, Mom and Cricket went to Lamb's Chapel for the first time since Mom's surgery. She loved being back at church. She also took Benadryl on Saturday night and said that she slept for a few more hours than usual, which is great.
Please continue to pray for healing and a full recovery for Mom.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Maryland Friends
Dad left for the Faroe Islands on Friday. He called me while he was on his way to the airport and said that he almost canceled going on his trip. Mom was flying around the house tearing things apart looking for a neck pillow for him to take, which he did not want or need. Then she was talking to Aunt Helen on the phone, and Aunt Helen fell, so Mom was trying to contact 911 in Rochester, NY. Without success, she then tried calling Uncle Kevin and then Aunt Nancy. Since she could not contact either of them, she then called Jeff. So, while I was in class I got a phone call from Jeff and then my Mom. I then woke Elisabeth up to go and check on Mom. Meanwhile, Dad was trying to gather all of his things for his trip and get to the airport. Needless to say, it was a confusing and hectic morning for them.
Elisabeth stayed with Mom all day and then Cricket Barrazotto came to Florence to stay with Mom for the weekend. She is wonderful and a great blessing. We are so thankful that she is going to stay with Mom and Elisabeth while Dad is gone.
Tomorrow, Auntie A (Allison Gault, mom's college roommate) is coming to stay during the week. Another huge blessing. Mom will have so much fun with Cricket and Auntie A. Lately, she has been frusturated with Dad and how he is trying to protect her. I do not think she realizes that she is still in the healing process, and it will take time.
Please continue to pray for Mom and her recovery because her personality has changed. She still is not sleeping a lot because she only sleeps for about three hours a night. Please also pray for Dad while he is away. He does not like being away from Mom, and he also needs to sleep and rest. Please pray that even while he is in the Faroe Islands and busy with work that there will be time for him to rest.
Elisabeth stayed with Mom all day and then Cricket Barrazotto came to Florence to stay with Mom for the weekend. She is wonderful and a great blessing. We are so thankful that she is going to stay with Mom and Elisabeth while Dad is gone.
Tomorrow, Auntie A (Allison Gault, mom's college roommate) is coming to stay during the week. Another huge blessing. Mom will have so much fun with Cricket and Auntie A. Lately, she has been frusturated with Dad and how he is trying to protect her. I do not think she realizes that she is still in the healing process, and it will take time.
Please continue to pray for Mom and her recovery because her personality has changed. She still is not sleeping a lot because she only sleeps for about three hours a night. Please also pray for Dad while he is away. He does not like being away from Mom, and he also needs to sleep and rest. Please pray that even while he is in the Faroe Islands and busy with work that there will be time for him to rest.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Email from Dad
Badeen is improving daily. She is still fairly hyper and only able to sleep 2-3 hours a night as the steroids continue to affect her. This could last another 3-4 weeks. Her staples are out and all the medical staff are extremely pleased with her progress. We have a DVD with the MRI showing her tumor. I’ll see if I can email you some images.
I leave tomorrow to take 16 publishers to the Faroe Islands (north of Scotland) for a week on our newest ship, Logos Hope. Cricket and Allison are coming from Baltimore to have a girls week. Several ladies from our office & church have supplied us with loads of food and will be around to help if needed. Elisabeth is doing very well.
I’ll have email but no phone while I’m away.
Many thanks for all your emails, gifts and prayers. We deeply appreciate all our family has done for us during this time.
Blessings,
Joe
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