Blessings.
For Ian: We’re pleased today that Ian is stable enough to have surgery tomorrow to replace the full ventilator with a trach and a feeding tube. This change has the potential to help Ian heal faster.

For James: James’ orthopedist, Dr. Pitts (Abilene Orthopedic Institute) and his office staff surprised and blessed James and our families with gifts of diapers, toys, snacks for babies, clothes, and gift cards after James’ visit today. We were overwhelmed with their love and generosity. (See the photos below.)

Concerns.
Later today, we were disappointed to learn that the pressure in Ian’s brain was not, in fact, stable enough for him to have his second pressure drain removed. He’ll resume a medicine to help lessen pressure and continue a little longer with the brain. It is so hard to wait (even though we have not waited as long as some of you have in your experiences with brain injuries). After Sunday’s obvious progress, we work hard to remain patient and not over-stimulate him so he can heal.

What’s Next?
We ask that you join us with more prayers tomorrow during his surgery (some time mid-day; we’re not exactly sure about the time) and that you pray for us to have patience, while praying for Ian’s healing.

Strong in the Lord.
Several verses offer us comfort today, particularly on the theme of patience:

• “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer” (Romans 12:12)
• Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer” (Romans 12:12)
• “The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them” (Romans 8:24-29)

Your favorites continue to bless us. Share if you’d like!